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The Hapgoods of Bramleigh #1
The Naturalist
Joseph Tierney, a naturalist commissioned by the Royal Society, stumbles upon the perfect assistant: an eager lad who knows the lay of the landscape and his flora from his fauna. But Joseph finds their fruitful partnership compromised when this so-called Arthur Baddely turns out to be one Miss Alice Hapgood, daughter of the neighboring squire.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2013
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937 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dudley
28 books266 followersChristina Hwang Dudley is the author of clean historical and contemporary romance.
Her historical romances include the Hapgoods of Bramleigh and Ellsworth Assortment series of Regency romances, including THE NATURALIST and TEMPTED BY FOLLY.
In contemporary romance, her forthcoming PRIDE AND PRESTON LIN (Third State Books, 2024) riffs on Austen, but this time the story is set in the San Francisco Bay Area, with Asian American protagonists who hail from different ends of the economic spectrum.
Her historical romances include the Hapgoods of Bramleigh and Ellsworth Assortment series of Regency romances, including THE NATURALIST and TEMPTED BY FOLLY.
In contemporary romance, her forthcoming PRIDE AND PRESTON LIN (Third State Books, 2024) riffs on Austen, but this time the story is set in the San Francisco Bay Area, with Asian American protagonists who hail from different ends of the economic spectrum.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
August 17, 2022
Joseph Tierney, a naturalist commissioned by the Royal Society, arrives at Pattergees, the estate of Lord Marlton, to study the local flora and fauna of the landscape. Looking for an assistant to help him about this task, he meets young Arthur Baddely, the two soon striking up a firm friendship and settling into an easy working relationship together. The only slight issue is that Arthur is in fact Miss Alice Hapgood, daughter of the neighbouring Squire.
My first read from Christina Dudley, I was utterly delighted by this charming and traditional Regency Romance. It had a very Heyer-esque feel to it, which is praise indeed for any book in the genre in my opinion.
The story is very amusing, with Alice's ploy and deception lending to lots of humour. Indeed she was quite hilarious as Arthur, digging herself into an ever deeper hole. Despite her deception of Joseph it was impossible not to like her, after all her motivations were driven by her own love of the natural world, only of course as a young lady this would not have been considered an appropriate pursuit, hence the need for Arthur.
Naturally once her deception is discovered, this leads to plenty more drama. Joseph very honourably offers his hand in marriage to save her and her family's reputation, and whilst by now Alice is head over heels in love with him and could wish for nothing more than to be his wife, she cannot abide the fact that he thinks she intentionally set out to entrap him. There follows plenty more mis-communication and misunderstandings before our happy couple find their way to the altar.
I loved both the central characters in the story. Alice causes all sorts of mischief, without ever intending to really cause any trouble, and Joseph was always so honourable no matter what. Their developing relationship was a joy to watch unfold, be it as Arthur and Joseph or Alice and Joseph.
I also really enjoyed the supporting cast. The Hapgoods were such a larger than life family, and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series following the various siblings.
I appreciated that Dudley's writing and dialogue felt appropriate for the time period, something which is becoming rarer for modern Regency Romances, and that really lent the story a more authentic feel. I also thought the focus on studying nature and scientific exploration gave the story a refreshing angle, and thought that Dudley excelled in bringing the setting to life.
Overall, this was just a delightful old-school read, gentle yet thoroughly entertaining with warm and colourful characters, and not the sort of Regency Romance one comes across that often any more. So glad I happened upon this, especially as there is a whole series to devour!
My first read from Christina Dudley, I was utterly delighted by this charming and traditional Regency Romance. It had a very Heyer-esque feel to it, which is praise indeed for any book in the genre in my opinion.
The story is very amusing, with Alice's ploy and deception lending to lots of humour. Indeed she was quite hilarious as Arthur, digging herself into an ever deeper hole. Despite her deception of Joseph it was impossible not to like her, after all her motivations were driven by her own love of the natural world, only of course as a young lady this would not have been considered an appropriate pursuit, hence the need for Arthur.
Naturally once her deception is discovered, this leads to plenty more drama. Joseph very honourably offers his hand in marriage to save her and her family's reputation, and whilst by now Alice is head over heels in love with him and could wish for nothing more than to be his wife, she cannot abide the fact that he thinks she intentionally set out to entrap him. There follows plenty more mis-communication and misunderstandings before our happy couple find their way to the altar.
I loved both the central characters in the story. Alice causes all sorts of mischief, without ever intending to really cause any trouble, and Joseph was always so honourable no matter what. Their developing relationship was a joy to watch unfold, be it as Arthur and Joseph or Alice and Joseph.
I also really enjoyed the supporting cast. The Hapgoods were such a larger than life family, and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series following the various siblings.
I appreciated that Dudley's writing and dialogue felt appropriate for the time period, something which is becoming rarer for modern Regency Romances, and that really lent the story a more authentic feel. I also thought the focus on studying nature and scientific exploration gave the story a refreshing angle, and thought that Dudley excelled in bringing the setting to life.
Overall, this was just a delightful old-school read, gentle yet thoroughly entertaining with warm and colourful characters, and not the sort of Regency Romance one comes across that often any more. So glad I happened upon this, especially as there is a whole series to devour!
August 21, 2014
Ever since reading Christina Dudley’s beautiful modern adaptation of Mansfield Park, The Beresfords, I have been eager to read more from such a skilled and creative author! (It isn’t everyone who is brave enough to take on Mansfield Park!) Even though her latest release, The Naturalist isn’t my typical Austenesque fare, I was enticed to read it after hearing it described as a clean Regency romance similar in style to Georgette Heyer (I love me some hilarious hijinks!)
Our heroine in this tale is Alice Hapgood, the second daughter (out of four) of an almost-impoverished country squire. Alice reminds me a little of Elizabeth Bennet with her quick mind, love of the outdoors, and sometimes blatant disregard for lady-like behavior. She is passionate about science and sneaks out most mornings (in young men’s attire *gasp!*) to conduct her research and observations. An activity she is able to keep secret thanks to the help of a few trusted and caring servants!
While out one morning (in a pair of breeches, loose shirt, and a hat that contains all of her hair) Alice accidentally encounters Joseph Tierney – a naturalist commissioned to make a survey on the natural life in the county of Somerset and tells him her name is, “Arthur.” Deciding to continue the charade, Alice (as Arthur) accepts a position as Joesph’s assistant. Leading him around the area, collecting samples, observing the flora and fauna – Alice gets to experience the life she’s always dreamed of and the profession she’s denied because of her gender.
Respect and friendship start to grow between these two natural observers, and for Alice, something akin to affection and attraction begins to stir in her heart… But what happens when Joseph finds out who “Arthur” really is? What happens when Alice tells the truth about her deception and disguise???
I adore Christina Dudley’s writing – her characters were lovable and quirky, the dialogue and situations felt authentic to the time period, and there was an abundance of entertaining misunderstandings, backfired schemes, and hilarious mishaps! I loved witnessing these two nature lovers become embroiled in confusion, scandal, and romance. With the cross-dressing, colorful characters, and comedic capers, I felt this novel definitely channeled Georgette Heyer! What a lark!
My one complaint is that I wanted more! Christina Dudley created such intriguing and dynamic characters that I found myself wanting more time with ALL of them come the end of the novel! Alice’s brusque and blustery father, her three sisters who each had distinct personalities, the snooty Marltons, oh – and Alice’s spendthrift Uncle Alwyn, who has a reputation for getting into lots of scrapes! (definitely want to see more of him!) Sorry to repine, Ms. Dudley, but it’s your own fault for creating such engaging characters! ;)
Actually, it looks like there may be more in store for these delightful creations, The Naturalist appears to be the first in a series of traditional Regency romances titled The Hapgoods of Bramleigh. So it looks like we will be seeing more of the Hapgood family in the future! Woot woot!
Our heroine in this tale is Alice Hapgood, the second daughter (out of four) of an almost-impoverished country squire. Alice reminds me a little of Elizabeth Bennet with her quick mind, love of the outdoors, and sometimes blatant disregard for lady-like behavior. She is passionate about science and sneaks out most mornings (in young men’s attire *gasp!*) to conduct her research and observations. An activity she is able to keep secret thanks to the help of a few trusted and caring servants!
While out one morning (in a pair of breeches, loose shirt, and a hat that contains all of her hair) Alice accidentally encounters Joseph Tierney – a naturalist commissioned to make a survey on the natural life in the county of Somerset and tells him her name is, “Arthur.” Deciding to continue the charade, Alice (as Arthur) accepts a position as Joesph’s assistant. Leading him around the area, collecting samples, observing the flora and fauna – Alice gets to experience the life she’s always dreamed of and the profession she’s denied because of her gender.
Respect and friendship start to grow between these two natural observers, and for Alice, something akin to affection and attraction begins to stir in her heart… But what happens when Joseph finds out who “Arthur” really is? What happens when Alice tells the truth about her deception and disguise???
I adore Christina Dudley’s writing – her characters were lovable and quirky, the dialogue and situations felt authentic to the time period, and there was an abundance of entertaining misunderstandings, backfired schemes, and hilarious mishaps! I loved witnessing these two nature lovers become embroiled in confusion, scandal, and romance. With the cross-dressing, colorful characters, and comedic capers, I felt this novel definitely channeled Georgette Heyer! What a lark!
My one complaint is that I wanted more! Christina Dudley created such intriguing and dynamic characters that I found myself wanting more time with ALL of them come the end of the novel! Alice’s brusque and blustery father, her three sisters who each had distinct personalities, the snooty Marltons, oh – and Alice’s spendthrift Uncle Alwyn, who has a reputation for getting into lots of scrapes! (definitely want to see more of him!) Sorry to repine, Ms. Dudley, but it’s your own fault for creating such engaging characters! ;)
Actually, it looks like there may be more in store for these delightful creations, The Naturalist appears to be the first in a series of traditional Regency romances titled The Hapgoods of Bramleigh. So it looks like we will be seeing more of the Hapgood family in the future! Woot woot!
March 27, 2014
Traditional Regency Romance has had its ebb and flow in popularity over the years. This subgenre of romance novels was made famous by English writer Georgette Heyer with its roots deeply entwined in Jane Austen’s novels of manners and courtship. By 2005, trends were shifting and readers preferred the freedom of the Regency Historical which allowed more intimate relationships and daring plots. In the past few years I have seen resurgence in popularity of the Traditional Regency Romance and credit authors Candice Hern, Carla Kelly, Julie Klassen, Julianne Donaldson and Sarah M. Eden for its renaissance. Now, I am very pleased to add one more author to my list of favorites, Christina Dudley.
I first became aware of Dudley’s talent when I read The Beresfords, a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park. She had successfully transformed Austen’s dark horse into an interesting and thoughtful contemporary novel receiving such accolades as “brilliant,” “masterful,” and “endearing” from reviewers. Truly amazing. Imagine my delight when I discovered that her next novel, The Naturalist, would be a Traditional Regency, and, it was the first book in a series!
While many modern Regencies revolve around the Ton (London Society) and aristocrats, The Naturalist is set in the wilds of Somerset among the landed gentry, harkening to Austen’s fondness for three or four families in a country village. Joseph Tierney, a budding naturalist, has arrived at Pattergees the estate of Lord Marton on assignment with the Royal Society to conduct an exhaustive natural study of the realm. Lady Marlton and her daughter, the Honorable Miss Birdlow, are more interested in studying HIM and soon realize that the neighboring families will think Mr. Tierney is “the rightful property of some one or other of their daughters.” They immediately set about discrediting the competition including neighbors Elfrida and Alice Hapgood. Mr. Tierney, who has no designs upon marrying anyone, only wishes to find an assistant to help him discover and collect the local flora and fauna.
Alice Hapgood, also a budding naturalist, is hiding her passion for the out-of-doors from her disapproving father by disguise and stealth. When shortly after his arrival Mr. Tierney encounters a local lad poaching trout on Lord Marlton’s property, he is none the wiser, thinking he/she would make the perfect assistant for his project. Alice immediately thinks he would make the perfect husband! Spinning the persona of Arthur Baddely she deftly shows Mr. Tierney all the treasures of woodland and meadow while learning all she can from him. Their friendship soon grows until a cousin of the Birdlows publically exposes her as an imposter, scandalizing the community and forcing Mr. Tierney’s hand. As a gentleman he is honor bound to save her reputation by marrying her even though it means putting aside his dream of become a naturalist. To support a wife he must return to his family in Buckinghamshire and become a clergyman, the profession and living that he previously refused. Ashamed and humiliated, Alice does not want to be forced into marrying anyone, especially the man she loves.
A literary feast for any Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer fan, The Naturalist is a wonderful escape into the verdant countryside and the lives of two young lovers of nature who learn that truth and respect are the most important foundations of any relationship. The final outcome of their romance is never in question, but their winding path of discovery for science, and their hearts, is a memorable journey. Dudley’s plot was so reverent to the Traditional Regency genre filled with original, quirky characters, witty repartee, layered secrets, blundering misunderstandings, and laugh-out-loud humor. I just cringed as heroine Alice dug herself deeper and deeper into her deception of lies to impersonate Arthur. You just knew it was going to backfire on her at some point, and when it does, the reaction of the two main characters, their families and the community was not a surprise, but how Dudley worked both of their inner struggles and points of view around to the happy conclusion was very clever.
My only quibbles are totally selfish. I saw a resemblance of the Hapgood family, with their four daughters and no male heir, to the Bennets in Pride and Prejudice. Why no fifth sister? Maybe we will meet a pedantic Hapgood cousin in the future? I also craved more time with the hero and heroine as themselves, and also as Tierney and Baddely. The contrast of their personalities together in the ballroom or in a woodland forest was well crafted and worthy of further development.
If you read one Traditional Regency this year let it be The Naturalist – and save a place on your to-be-read list for the next in the series, A Very Plain Young Man: Book Two of The Hapgoods of Bromleigh, releasing this spring.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
I first became aware of Dudley’s talent when I read The Beresfords, a modern retelling of Jane Austen’s Mansfield Park. She had successfully transformed Austen’s dark horse into an interesting and thoughtful contemporary novel receiving such accolades as “brilliant,” “masterful,” and “endearing” from reviewers. Truly amazing. Imagine my delight when I discovered that her next novel, The Naturalist, would be a Traditional Regency, and, it was the first book in a series!
While many modern Regencies revolve around the Ton (London Society) and aristocrats, The Naturalist is set in the wilds of Somerset among the landed gentry, harkening to Austen’s fondness for three or four families in a country village. Joseph Tierney, a budding naturalist, has arrived at Pattergees the estate of Lord Marton on assignment with the Royal Society to conduct an exhaustive natural study of the realm. Lady Marlton and her daughter, the Honorable Miss Birdlow, are more interested in studying HIM and soon realize that the neighboring families will think Mr. Tierney is “the rightful property of some one or other of their daughters.” They immediately set about discrediting the competition including neighbors Elfrida and Alice Hapgood. Mr. Tierney, who has no designs upon marrying anyone, only wishes to find an assistant to help him discover and collect the local flora and fauna.
Alice Hapgood, also a budding naturalist, is hiding her passion for the out-of-doors from her disapproving father by disguise and stealth. When shortly after his arrival Mr. Tierney encounters a local lad poaching trout on Lord Marlton’s property, he is none the wiser, thinking he/she would make the perfect assistant for his project. Alice immediately thinks he would make the perfect husband! Spinning the persona of Arthur Baddely she deftly shows Mr. Tierney all the treasures of woodland and meadow while learning all she can from him. Their friendship soon grows until a cousin of the Birdlows publically exposes her as an imposter, scandalizing the community and forcing Mr. Tierney’s hand. As a gentleman he is honor bound to save her reputation by marrying her even though it means putting aside his dream of become a naturalist. To support a wife he must return to his family in Buckinghamshire and become a clergyman, the profession and living that he previously refused. Ashamed and humiliated, Alice does not want to be forced into marrying anyone, especially the man she loves.
A literary feast for any Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer fan, The Naturalist is a wonderful escape into the verdant countryside and the lives of two young lovers of nature who learn that truth and respect are the most important foundations of any relationship. The final outcome of their romance is never in question, but their winding path of discovery for science, and their hearts, is a memorable journey. Dudley’s plot was so reverent to the Traditional Regency genre filled with original, quirky characters, witty repartee, layered secrets, blundering misunderstandings, and laugh-out-loud humor. I just cringed as heroine Alice dug herself deeper and deeper into her deception of lies to impersonate Arthur. You just knew it was going to backfire on her at some point, and when it does, the reaction of the two main characters, their families and the community was not a surprise, but how Dudley worked both of their inner struggles and points of view around to the happy conclusion was very clever.
My only quibbles are totally selfish. I saw a resemblance of the Hapgood family, with their four daughters and no male heir, to the Bennets in Pride and Prejudice. Why no fifth sister? Maybe we will meet a pedantic Hapgood cousin in the future? I also craved more time with the hero and heroine as themselves, and also as Tierney and Baddely. The contrast of their personalities together in the ballroom or in a woodland forest was well crafted and worthy of further development.
If you read one Traditional Regency this year let it be The Naturalist – and save a place on your to-be-read list for the next in the series, A Very Plain Young Man: Book Two of The Hapgoods of Bromleigh, releasing this spring.
Laurel Ann, Austenprose
August 26, 2020
I did not enjoy this story. Let me count the ways:
1) Too stupid to live heroine: she accepts a proposal from a man even though she knows she forced him to do it, and could simply refuse it; she kisses him even though she knows he thinks she is foisting herself on him to force him into marriage; she writes him a letter about jilting him rather than, say, writing him a letter as soon as the trouble starts and they had to get engaged, to explain herself to him - a lot of the plot hinges on the heroine being really, really, really, aggressively bloody dumb.
2) Hero who is distinguished by no particular trait whatsoever: the heroine falls in love with him immediately, so that spared the author the effort to introduce her and the reader to him and give her and us reasons to want him as our romantic hero. I swear, if some world government were to ban any insta-lusting and insta-loving in literature the whole genre of romance would improve at once and to such a degree we'd all read nothing but that.
3) Stilted language to pose for period-accurate language.
4) Period errors: for example, a gentleman talking of his host's bastards, or any bastards at all for that matter, in front of the host's wife and daughter?!?
It just grows more boring and predictable as you race to the end. I finished it, and it was not the worst thing I ever read - it started well, and until the heroine's true identity was revealed it was ok, but then the author clearly got bored with her own novel and just worked on tying the loose ends, without any view to entertain the reader as she did so. For example, she abandons the subplot about Miss Birdlow and her cousin altogether, and if you hoped for any kind of resolution of what takes up half the plot until somewhere in the middle of the novel, you are going to be disappointed.
In my search for a good Georgette Heyer substitute I have come across much better, more solid reads than this.
March 27, 2021
Well, this was a delightful surprise. For some reason, I’d formed the impression that this was going to be pretentious tosh, but it turned out to be a rather well-written tale in authentically Regency language, with an interesting array of characters and a plot that depends less than is common these days on contrivance and misunderstanding.
Here’s the premise: Joseph Tierney is the younger son of a baronet, whose family had hoped he would enter the church but who preferred the pursuit of science instead. Having secured the patronage of the Royal Society, he is dispatched to Somerset to begin his explorations at Pattergees, the home of Lord Marlton. He accidentally stumbles across a local lad perfect as an assistant for his work, a rough-spoken boy who miraculously knows enough Latin to name the species around them. Unfortunately, the local lad turns out to be Alice Hapgood, one of the squire’s daughters, and once the word gets about that she’s been out and about in boy’s clothes, and alone with Joseph, he feels obliged to marry her.
Now the logic of this is dubious. I’ve never been a great fan of the compromised maiden trope. Unless there’s been actual naughtiness of the baby-producing type between the couple, it’s really unreasonable to expect them to be forced into marriage. Alice is 17, young enough to have it laughed off as childish misbehaviour, she’s the squire’s daughter, after all, and this is village society, not the hallowed realms of Almack’s and Carlton House. It would be a nine-days wonder and then forgotten about, apart from some gentle teasing from time to time. However, every author sets the tone of her own created Regency, and it fits with Joseph’s serious and dutiful character. He accepts the inevitable (as he sees it) with good grace, even though it means giving up his career as a naturalist and going into the church after all.
So there’s a hasty betrothal, but plenty of room for believable misunderstanding between our non-lovers. He assumes she’s trapped him into it from pure ambition, whereas she’s been in love with him from the moment she set eyes on him, and hates the thought that the man she loves is marrying her from duty and will inevitably resent her and rue his lost career. There’s a memorable moment when he’s protesting that he’s going to marry her whether she likes it or not, she’s trying to shut him up and somehow it turns into a kiss, which they are both surprisingly enthusiastic about. But this misunderstanding leads to a glorious later scene where both of them are being entirely honest and open and straightforward with each other, and yet still manage to be entirely at cross purposes. Quite brilliantly written.
Also brilliant is the way Joseph gradually and by very small increments comes to see that this marriage is actually a good thing in itself, and marriage to Alice is the perfect outcome for him. I wasn’t mad about the oh-so-convenient-for-the-plot meeting with his scientific mentors, but the time he spends with his father and brother, talking about Alice and seeing his parsonage, bring him to the perfect place for the charming, if a tad overblown resolution to the romance.
This is a beautifully written old school Regency, a real treat for those who love the authentic language of the era, and a nice evocation of the historical setting, with two sensible and likable leads. I only spotted a very few Americanisms (fall [*] instead of autumn) and one absolute howler (possums [*] in England? I don’t think so!), but nothing that affected my enjoyment of the book. A very elegant read, with more books in the series about the eccentric Hapgood family. Five stars.
[*] UPDATE: a reader tells me these issues have been fixed.
Here’s the premise: Joseph Tierney is the younger son of a baronet, whose family had hoped he would enter the church but who preferred the pursuit of science instead. Having secured the patronage of the Royal Society, he is dispatched to Somerset to begin his explorations at Pattergees, the home of Lord Marlton. He accidentally stumbles across a local lad perfect as an assistant for his work, a rough-spoken boy who miraculously knows enough Latin to name the species around them. Unfortunately, the local lad turns out to be Alice Hapgood, one of the squire’s daughters, and once the word gets about that she’s been out and about in boy’s clothes, and alone with Joseph, he feels obliged to marry her.
Now the logic of this is dubious. I’ve never been a great fan of the compromised maiden trope. Unless there’s been actual naughtiness of the baby-producing type between the couple, it’s really unreasonable to expect them to be forced into marriage. Alice is 17, young enough to have it laughed off as childish misbehaviour, she’s the squire’s daughter, after all, and this is village society, not the hallowed realms of Almack’s and Carlton House. It would be a nine-days wonder and then forgotten about, apart from some gentle teasing from time to time. However, every author sets the tone of her own created Regency, and it fits with Joseph’s serious and dutiful character. He accepts the inevitable (as he sees it) with good grace, even though it means giving up his career as a naturalist and going into the church after all.
So there’s a hasty betrothal, but plenty of room for believable misunderstanding between our non-lovers. He assumes she’s trapped him into it from pure ambition, whereas she’s been in love with him from the moment she set eyes on him, and hates the thought that the man she loves is marrying her from duty and will inevitably resent her and rue his lost career. There’s a memorable moment when he’s protesting that he’s going to marry her whether she likes it or not, she’s trying to shut him up and somehow it turns into a kiss, which they are both surprisingly enthusiastic about. But this misunderstanding leads to a glorious later scene where both of them are being entirely honest and open and straightforward with each other, and yet still manage to be entirely at cross purposes. Quite brilliantly written.
Also brilliant is the way Joseph gradually and by very small increments comes to see that this marriage is actually a good thing in itself, and marriage to Alice is the perfect outcome for him. I wasn’t mad about the oh-so-convenient-for-the-plot meeting with his scientific mentors, but the time he spends with his father and brother, talking about Alice and seeing his parsonage, bring him to the perfect place for the charming, if a tad overblown resolution to the romance.
This is a beautifully written old school Regency, a real treat for those who love the authentic language of the era, and a nice evocation of the historical setting, with two sensible and likable leads. I only spotted a very few Americanisms (fall [*] instead of autumn) and one absolute howler (possums [*] in England? I don’t think so!), but nothing that affected my enjoyment of the book. A very elegant read, with more books in the series about the eccentric Hapgood family. Five stars.
[*] UPDATE: a reader tells me these issues have been fixed.
June 4, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
“𝑰𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒆, 𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒅, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒇𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓.”
This was the perfect book to pull me out of my momentary reading slump! I was feeling super burnt out on romance, but this one was perfect and such a delight to read! Honestly, the writing style was the first thing that hooked me, but soon the story took over and kept me completely entertained 😄 This read like a regency book written back in the day, and I would highly recommend it to any regency lovers out there!
There’s just something about a story that starts with the MMC thinking the FMC is a boy 🤭 This one was seriously so good, and it had some pretty funny moments sprinkled throughout. I loved all of Alice and Joseph’s naturalist outings! Their characteristics worked so incredibly well together and really made this story all that it was. I was not at all expecting the confrontation about the false identity to go quite like it did, but I absolutely loved it! It must be noted that the ending was absolute perfection 🤌🏻
The characters in this book were so well written and had me all up in my feels while I was reading! I love that there was the perfect amount of hoity-toity characters, mixed with a dash of good ol’ down-to-earth folk. My favorite side characters were definitely Miss Birdlow and Geoffrey 🤭
The Hapgood family was so much fun to read about, and I’m ready to immediately jump into book two! Elfrida quickly intrigued me with the little I learned of her in The Naturalist, and I’m so excited to read of her own romance with a certain Very Plain Young Man 😏 Honestly, I’m really looking forward to reading the youngest sisters’ stories as well!
“𝑰𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒔𝒉𝒂𝒎𝒆, 𝒊𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒅, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒘𝒂𝒚 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕. 𝑩𝒆𝒄𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝑰 𝒇𝒆𝒂𝒓 𝑰 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒉𝒊𝒎 𝒎𝒐𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒏 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓.”
This was the perfect book to pull me out of my momentary reading slump! I was feeling super burnt out on romance, but this one was perfect and such a delight to read! Honestly, the writing style was the first thing that hooked me, but soon the story took over and kept me completely entertained 😄 This read like a regency book written back in the day, and I would highly recommend it to any regency lovers out there!
There’s just something about a story that starts with the MMC thinking the FMC is a boy 🤭 This one was seriously so good, and it had some pretty funny moments sprinkled throughout. I loved all of Alice and Joseph’s naturalist outings! Their characteristics worked so incredibly well together and really made this story all that it was. I was not at all expecting the confrontation about the false identity to go quite like it did, but I absolutely loved it! It must be noted that the ending was absolute perfection 🤌🏻
The characters in this book were so well written and had me all up in my feels while I was reading! I love that there was the perfect amount of hoity-toity characters, mixed with a dash of good ol’ down-to-earth folk. My favorite side characters were definitely Miss Birdlow and Geoffrey 🤭
The Hapgood family was so much fun to read about, and I’m ready to immediately jump into book two! Elfrida quickly intrigued me with the little I learned of her in The Naturalist, and I’m so excited to read of her own romance with a certain Very Plain Young Man 😏 Honestly, I’m really looking forward to reading the youngest sisters’ stories as well!
June 18, 2014
Alice Hapgood, second daughter of a country squire, loves to be outdoors among nature. She's a naturalist with a passion for her work, but in order for her to roam the countryside and pursue her work, she has to dress as a boy. She thinks no one will see her out so early in the morning and as long as her temperamental father doesn't find out, she'll be all right. Joseph Tierney defied his father's wishes to become a naturalist. He's been sent to Somerset to stay with Lord Marlton to catalog the local flora and fauna. Joseph hopes Lord Marlton or one of his friends will provide patronage for his explorations, for a naturalist hasn't much to live on. All Joseph wants, besides patronage, is a capable assistant to show him around and help him with his studies. When the local land owners discover a bachelor in their midst, they set to work throwing their marriageable daughters at him, including Lord Marlton's daughter and Alice's older sister Elfrida. Alice is determined that none but SHE should marry him. First though, she's determined to become his assistant. Soon Joseph and his assistant "Arthur Baddeley" become fast friends and the expedition quickly passes. Alice makes plans to keep Joseph in Somerset longer, but Father Thomas advises her to leave it off and confess all. A jealous rival threatens to ruin everything Joseph and Arthur/Alice have worked towards and even their friendship. Will Alice get what she dreamed of after all?
This story is set in a world that was familiar to Jane Austen. You have the typical three or four families in a country village and impoverished heroine. Unlike Jane Austen's books, the story does not have much of the social satire or witty remarks that make Jane Austen's stories so wonderful. It also lacks colorful and interesting characters. I really wanted to like this story. The premise sounded great and the heroine interesting, however, the story did not appeal to me all that much. The descriptions of the flora and fauna of the country are numerous and there's a bit too much of them. I did not like what Joseph was doing with them either. I did like the depictions of the friendship between Joseph and Arthur, especially when Joseph teased Arthur. There were some humorous moments but nothing that really made me laugh out loud. The plot turns into an engagement of convenience story which I absolutely hate. This one was no exception. The ending is kind of sweet and made me say awww but at the same time, I found it a bit too rushed and sappy for my tastes. I also didn't like the theme of the prodigal son/daughter that echoed throughout the last third of the book. It was a bit too strong for me. The story would have been better if it had stuck to the plucky heroine plot.
The characters didn't appeal to me. I don't care enough about any of them to read the next book. Joseph is obtuse. He can't see what is obvious and takes too long to realize anything. I figured out an easy solution right away. He starts off well enough. He's kind and considerate, even if he's a blind fool. Then he turns into the typical engagement/marriage of convenience hero and his attitude made me dislike him. He only comes around in the end thanks to some prodding from his colleagues. He just takes too long to realize the obvious and I wanted to yell at him. I can see many readers loving him though. The heroine is very young, and at times very stupid. She instantly declares she's going to marry Joseph without ever meeting him. He's her first crush and I felt like the relationship deserved a more mature couple. Alice has a close relationship with the clergyman, Father Thomas, who is more of a father figure than her own father. She's close with her sisters but not close enough to confide in them. She shows sparks on occasion but she broods more often than not. Both the h/h try to be noble and I hate nobility. The relationship was there but didn't develop the way I hoped it would. I can see the h/h making a good match in a few years when she's older and wiser.
As for the secondary characters, they're nothing special There's the blustering squire, sweet and sensible elder sister, prim and proper younger sister, sharp tongued younger sister and the nobility: a vain Honorable Miss whatever and her stupid cousin. Even the hero's brother is a dandy and rake. I didn't find the squire's temper funny and I didn't find Joseph's brother's teasing funny either.
This book failed to meet expectations but I liked it well enough. Those who love Edenbrooke will probably like this one too. 2.75 stars rounded to 3.
This story is set in a world that was familiar to Jane Austen. You have the typical three or four families in a country village and impoverished heroine. Unlike Jane Austen's books, the story does not have much of the social satire or witty remarks that make Jane Austen's stories so wonderful. It also lacks colorful and interesting characters. I really wanted to like this story. The premise sounded great and the heroine interesting, however, the story did not appeal to me all that much. The descriptions of the flora and fauna of the country are numerous and there's a bit too much of them. I did not like what Joseph was doing with them either. I did like the depictions of the friendship between Joseph and Arthur, especially when Joseph teased Arthur. There were some humorous moments but nothing that really made me laugh out loud. The plot turns into an engagement of convenience story which I absolutely hate. This one was no exception. The ending is kind of sweet and made me say awww but at the same time, I found it a bit too rushed and sappy for my tastes. I also didn't like the theme of the prodigal son/daughter that echoed throughout the last third of the book. It was a bit too strong for me. The story would have been better if it had stuck to the plucky heroine plot.
The characters didn't appeal to me. I don't care enough about any of them to read the next book. Joseph is obtuse. He can't see what is obvious and takes too long to realize anything. I figured out an easy solution right away. He starts off well enough. He's kind and considerate, even if he's a blind fool. Then he turns into the typical engagement/marriage of convenience hero and his attitude made me dislike him. He only comes around in the end thanks to some prodding from his colleagues. He just takes too long to realize the obvious and I wanted to yell at him. I can see many readers loving him though. The heroine is very young, and at times very stupid. She instantly declares she's going to marry Joseph without ever meeting him. He's her first crush and I felt like the relationship deserved a more mature couple. Alice has a close relationship with the clergyman, Father Thomas, who is more of a father figure than her own father. She's close with her sisters but not close enough to confide in them. She shows sparks on occasion but she broods more often than not. Both the h/h try to be noble and I hate nobility. The relationship was there but didn't develop the way I hoped it would. I can see the h/h making a good match in a few years when she's older and wiser.
As for the secondary characters, they're nothing special There's the blustering squire, sweet and sensible elder sister, prim and proper younger sister, sharp tongued younger sister and the nobility: a vain Honorable Miss whatever and her stupid cousin. Even the hero's brother is a dandy and rake. I didn't find the squire's temper funny and I didn't find Joseph's brother's teasing funny either.
This book failed to meet expectations but I liked it well enough. Those who love Edenbrooke will probably like this one too. 2.75 stars rounded to 3.
March 4, 2021
What lengths might a young lady go to for a fulfilling work that is generally denied her sex? And, when the inevitable happens, will a man search his soul and find what he truly wants may not be found under a microscope? I have noticed a few others finding pleasure in this series and have been wanting to read it for some time so I finally took the opportunity.
The Hapgoods of Bramleigh are the squire, his invalid wife, and four distracting daughters living well enough, but with no wealth to speak of. The Squire, a hearty man must take on the role of mother as well as father and some how find matches for his girls. Elfie the oldest is beautiful and sweet and likely to take easily, but he shakes his head over hoyden Alice who roams the countryside and comes back covered in mud, outspoken Margaret, and giddy Edie.
Into their midst comes a naturalist living up at the hall with the viscount and planning to spend time in the neighborhood studying and documenting the natural world of Somerset. The squire determines that Elfie should have him, but it is Alice who secretly yearns for the kind and learned handsome Mr. Tierney. She has already lied to him when he came across her in her male disguise and further tricks him into hiring her as his assistant, Arthur Baddeley. But, lies have a way of being found out and Alice is in danger of her happy tramps with Mr. Tierney and his good opinion of her gone for good.
The Naturalist has a feel of a Regency romp that begs the reader to sit back, enjoy, and not take it too seriously while at the same time appreciate the thoughtful moments that draw attention to women's plight in not being equally allowed to study the sciences and to the results of a lie on more than the one who told it.
The Hapgoods are an engaging quirky family and I was delighted by them all even the squire and his roaring. The aristocratic family on the other hand were stiff and some were so false that I was glad that Mr. Tierney was as unmoved by them as I was.
The focal study of natural history was a refreshing element in the story and I was glad it was given due attention and wasn't simply a prop to the story.
I think my only hang-up was the lies. I'm not fond of a conflict built on that edifice and particularly when there is a romance. I can never seem to respect the character who employs the lie even if I can sort of see why they chose it. In this case, I saw upfront that Alice was short sighted about the consequences of pretending to be Arthur. She loves nature sooooooo much that she would perpetrate a lie to have that time exploring and studying with Joseph. But, here's the rub, even for a girl brought up slightly unconventionally, she really couldn't have been that ignorant of what discovery would do to her reputation and that of her family. And, for all her professed love for Joseph Tierney, she put his reputation in the hotseat, too. This was the part I really had to deliberately set aside to appreciate the rest of the story and, Alice herself made this imminently hard because she chose to be hurt and angry that Joseph was cool and also noble about it all. And, later, she tries to do another not well thought out action that would have raised more remarks on her and her family's reputation though the book itself doesn't point out the consequences if she'd gone through with it.
So, a great deal I enjoyed thoroughly and bits about the heroine that left me working hard to reconcile. Again, I guess one has to swallow the little blue pill and go with the spirit of the story. Those who enjoy sweet regency romps should definitely reach for this one.
The Hapgoods of Bramleigh are the squire, his invalid wife, and four distracting daughters living well enough, but with no wealth to speak of. The Squire, a hearty man must take on the role of mother as well as father and some how find matches for his girls. Elfie the oldest is beautiful and sweet and likely to take easily, but he shakes his head over hoyden Alice who roams the countryside and comes back covered in mud, outspoken Margaret, and giddy Edie.
Into their midst comes a naturalist living up at the hall with the viscount and planning to spend time in the neighborhood studying and documenting the natural world of Somerset. The squire determines that Elfie should have him, but it is Alice who secretly yearns for the kind and learned handsome Mr. Tierney. She has already lied to him when he came across her in her male disguise and further tricks him into hiring her as his assistant, Arthur Baddeley. But, lies have a way of being found out and Alice is in danger of her happy tramps with Mr. Tierney and his good opinion of her gone for good.
The Naturalist has a feel of a Regency romp that begs the reader to sit back, enjoy, and not take it too seriously while at the same time appreciate the thoughtful moments that draw attention to women's plight in not being equally allowed to study the sciences and to the results of a lie on more than the one who told it.
The Hapgoods are an engaging quirky family and I was delighted by them all even the squire and his roaring. The aristocratic family on the other hand were stiff and some were so false that I was glad that Mr. Tierney was as unmoved by them as I was.
The focal study of natural history was a refreshing element in the story and I was glad it was given due attention and wasn't simply a prop to the story.
I think my only hang-up was the lies. I'm not fond of a conflict built on that edifice and particularly when there is a romance. I can never seem to respect the character who employs the lie even if I can sort of see why they chose it. In this case, I saw upfront that Alice was short sighted about the consequences of pretending to be Arthur. She loves nature sooooooo much that she would perpetrate a lie to have that time exploring and studying with Joseph. But, here's the rub, even for a girl brought up slightly unconventionally, she really couldn't have been that ignorant of what discovery would do to her reputation and that of her family. And, for all her professed love for Joseph Tierney, she put his reputation in the hotseat, too. This was the part I really had to deliberately set aside to appreciate the rest of the story and, Alice herself made this imminently hard because she chose to be hurt and angry that Joseph was cool and also noble about it all. And, later, she tries to do another not well thought out action that would have raised more remarks on her and her family's reputation though the book itself doesn't point out the consequences if she'd gone through with it.
So, a great deal I enjoyed thoroughly and bits about the heroine that left me working hard to reconcile. Again, I guess one has to swallow the little blue pill and go with the spirit of the story. Those who enjoy sweet regency romps should definitely reach for this one.
April 29, 2025
Big Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the advanced copy! I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
'The Naturalist' is a historical romantic comedy about a girl who loves nature and a Naturalist who impresses her both as a man and as a scientist.
The book has a cute romantic story, with the main characters being endearing and the writing style bringing to mind Jane Austen's novels.
The women in science discussion was also interesting to follow, but the novel doesn't really dwell too much into it, or in women's place in society and education at the time. Still, there were some strong foundations there.
Also, I would have loved for more naturalistic explorations by the main couple, as their banter and scientific discussions were fascinating.
Finally, the narrator was splendid and the audiobook nicely produced.
'The Naturalist' is a historical romantic comedy about a girl who loves nature and a Naturalist who impresses her both as a man and as a scientist.
The book has a cute romantic story, with the main characters being endearing and the writing style bringing to mind Jane Austen's novels.
The women in science discussion was also interesting to follow, but the novel doesn't really dwell too much into it, or in women's place in society and education at the time. Still, there were some strong foundations there.
Also, I would have loved for more naturalistic explorations by the main couple, as their banter and scientific discussions were fascinating.
Finally, the narrator was splendid and the audiobook nicely produced.
August 25, 2023
My first book by this author. It’s a well-written, well-planned book. I admire the talent that went into it more than I liked the finished product. Why? First, I absolutely HATE the girl-disguised-as-boy trope that actually fools the other main character. COULD a girl pass herself off as a boy? Perhaps, for brief contacts in short time bursts. But day after day with hours spent in close contact, even splashing around in water with wet shirts? Snort. Joseph looked like an idiot for having no clue. As for romance, there was very little of it. The reader was pulled from the bromance between Joseph and Arthur-really-Alice straight into ugly bitterness and recriminations, which the main characters resolved by talking to other people instead of each other. There was a lot of talk of duty, much discussion of practical matters, and a farcical fight in a garden. No joy.
May 29, 2022
perfectly enjoyable regency - 3
Alice is what we would call a biologist today, but an untrained one as she is female and living in the Regency. In her desire to learn more she disguises herself as a boy and traipses about the countryside. Here she meets Joseph, a young naturalist looking to hire someone to help him in his cataloguing of the local flora and fauna. Naturally enough he hires Alice, never realising she is actually a young woman. they are perfect for each other but have to figure that out. I liked both of them and I liked this charming story. My only real niggle is that Alice should have understood the consequences of her actions and been a bit brighter about them.
Alice is what we would call a biologist today, but an untrained one as she is female and living in the Regency. In her desire to learn more she disguises herself as a boy and traipses about the countryside. Here she meets Joseph, a young naturalist looking to hire someone to help him in his cataloguing of the local flora and fauna. Naturally enough he hires Alice, never realising she is actually a young woman. they are perfect for each other but have to figure that out. I liked both of them and I liked this charming story. My only real niggle is that Alice should have understood the consequences of her actions and been a bit brighter about them.
May 3, 2025
This book is very uneventful…the most interesting thing to happen is she gets caught dressing as a man but it’s really not even blown up much despite the fact during this time period it would be a major issue and ruin her reputation. I liked the concept in theory, I just found the execution lacking somewhat. I think there was a lot of room for more stuff to happen but it didn’t, which made it difficult to get through the book as it was kind of slow moving.
I received the audiobook ARC for this and found that the narrator’s heavy accent at times made it difficult to follow along with the story and it took me a while at the beginning to adjust to it. I think this made me dislike the story more, as I had to try harder to process what she was saying in order to understand what was happening in the book. While it does help to point out the setting of the story, for International readers outside of Britain, it can be a bit difficult to understand or follow easily. When I listen to an audiobook I like being able to easily understand and not have to decipher what is being said, but I had to actively be thinking about what was said while listening to this. The author also doesn’t really use a different pitch or tone when speaking from different character perspectives. One of the male characters I fully thought was a woman up until the end because the narrator used such a high-pitched voice when saying their dialogue. If there was a bit more difference between the characters dialogue and how it was said, it would be easier to distinguish the characters from one another.
On a more positive note, I do like the setting of this book and it kind of gives Pride and Prejudice but with a cross-dressing STEM gal instead for a mc (Alice, I know you’d be a researcher in the modern world and would love STEM). Another thing I love about this book is the cover, which I think is absolutely gorgeous and has beautiful colours in it. The newer cover is much better than previous editions I’ve seen.
Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook ARC. All opinions are my own.
I received the audiobook ARC for this and found that the narrator’s heavy accent at times made it difficult to follow along with the story and it took me a while at the beginning to adjust to it. I think this made me dislike the story more, as I had to try harder to process what she was saying in order to understand what was happening in the book. While it does help to point out the setting of the story, for International readers outside of Britain, it can be a bit difficult to understand or follow easily. When I listen to an audiobook I like being able to easily understand and not have to decipher what is being said, but I had to actively be thinking about what was said while listening to this. The author also doesn’t really use a different pitch or tone when speaking from different character perspectives. One of the male characters I fully thought was a woman up until the end because the narrator used such a high-pitched voice when saying their dialogue. If there was a bit more difference between the characters dialogue and how it was said, it would be easier to distinguish the characters from one another.
On a more positive note, I do like the setting of this book and it kind of gives Pride and Prejudice but with a cross-dressing STEM gal instead for a mc (Alice, I know you’d be a researcher in the modern world and would love STEM). Another thing I love about this book is the cover, which I think is absolutely gorgeous and has beautiful colours in it. The newer cover is much better than previous editions I’ve seen.
Thank you to NetGalley for this audiobook ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 30, 2022
Extremely well written AND laugh out loud funny. Completely delightful.
June 22, 2023
Traditional romance with the couple sharing interest in natural world. Trouble is she presents herself as a boy and once she is unmasked, he's overcome with girlish hurt. MOC and eventual HEA.
March 18, 2014
I’m not normally a reader of books in the Jane Austen genre, but I really enjoyed Everliving, another book by Christina Dudley, so I decided to give the Naturalist a read (actually, it’s my wife’s copy). The book moves along at a comfortable pace and the author has researched the era and genre exceptionally well. For those who are Regency Romance disciples, this book should be on your short list. It’s the first of a four part series (I hear part II should be out shortly). The characters are very appealing and nuanced, which will give the author plenty of material to work with as she guides us through the Hapgoods family ups, downs, ins and outs through three more editions.
December 7, 2022
Light, frothy! Amusing Regency reading.
May 14, 2025
A charming Regency romance in audiobook format for the first time! This lovely little romance was perfect on audio and I’m fully committed to the series after listening to this one.
I’m personally going through a bit of a Regency phase after reading Emma by Jane Austen and binging the first two seasons of Bridgerton, so The Naturalist was a natural choice for me to keep that Regency romance mood going. This book is markedly less… raunchy than Bridgerton and a lot of current popular historical romances, and it had a captivating and unique plot. A happily ever after is basically guaranteed with this type of novel, but it’s all about the obstacles that keep the lovers apart.
I loved reading about Joseph Tierney and Alice Hapgood, who meet under deceptive circumstances. Alice Hapgood disguises herself as a local boy named Arthur in order to fill the role of assistant to the naturalist who has just arrived in the county to survey the flora and fauna of Somerset, where Alice and her family reside. Joseph Tierney, the naturalist, falls for Alice’s disguise and hires Alice/Arthur to help him. He’s impressed by her knowledge but somewhat suspicious of his new assistant’s origins. Eventually, the truth is revealed and so the two must wed for propriety’s sake, though neither is convinced of their own affections or the other’s intentions.
Joseph’s salary as a naturalist cannot support a family, so he must return home and beg for his father to allow him to take on the family’s living as a rector. I have to say there is an element of convenience and coincidence in the way everything is eventually worked out for the characters. This aspect, along with the the tropes of disguised identity and a LOT of miscommunication, was a little over the top as far as how much can realistically happen in a story, but that’s something you have to accept when you’re reading this genre.
I loved the way this story explored gender roles and social expectations in Regency life while still keeping things light and fluffy overall. I also really appreciated that this was a romance between equals and that Joseph was initially drawn to Alice’s intelligence as a person before even knowing she was a woman. And the revelation that she was a woman did not reduce her in his estimation. The author subverted a lot of expectations I had for a historical romance novel without straying too far from what I look for in this genre.
In the epilogue of The Naturalist you can find a clear set-up for the next book in this series, which I think is very fun. I love when a series introduces side characters early on who can be expected to have main character arcs eventually. This is a series I’ll definitely pursue in audiobook format as they become available or in paperback if I am too impatient!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the opportunity to be an early listener of this title. The Naturalist audiobook is available now.
I’m personally going through a bit of a Regency phase after reading Emma by Jane Austen and binging the first two seasons of Bridgerton, so The Naturalist was a natural choice for me to keep that Regency romance mood going. This book is markedly less… raunchy than Bridgerton and a lot of current popular historical romances, and it had a captivating and unique plot. A happily ever after is basically guaranteed with this type of novel, but it’s all about the obstacles that keep the lovers apart.
I loved reading about Joseph Tierney and Alice Hapgood, who meet under deceptive circumstances. Alice Hapgood disguises herself as a local boy named Arthur in order to fill the role of assistant to the naturalist who has just arrived in the county to survey the flora and fauna of Somerset, where Alice and her family reside. Joseph Tierney, the naturalist, falls for Alice’s disguise and hires Alice/Arthur to help him. He’s impressed by her knowledge but somewhat suspicious of his new assistant’s origins. Eventually, the truth is revealed and so the two must wed for propriety’s sake, though neither is convinced of their own affections or the other’s intentions.
Joseph’s salary as a naturalist cannot support a family, so he must return home and beg for his father to allow him to take on the family’s living as a rector. I have to say there is an element of convenience and coincidence in the way everything is eventually worked out for the characters. This aspect, along with the the tropes of disguised identity and a LOT of miscommunication, was a little over the top as far as how much can realistically happen in a story, but that’s something you have to accept when you’re reading this genre.
I loved the way this story explored gender roles and social expectations in Regency life while still keeping things light and fluffy overall. I also really appreciated that this was a romance between equals and that Joseph was initially drawn to Alice’s intelligence as a person before even knowing she was a woman. And the revelation that she was a woman did not reduce her in his estimation. The author subverted a lot of expectations I had for a historical romance novel without straying too far from what I look for in this genre.
In the epilogue of The Naturalist you can find a clear set-up for the next book in this series, which I think is very fun. I love when a series introduces side characters early on who can be expected to have main character arcs eventually. This is a series I’ll definitely pursue in audiobook format as they become available or in paperback if I am too impatient!
Thank you to NetGalley and Tantor Audio for the opportunity to be an early listener of this title. The Naturalist audiobook is available now.
July 18, 2022
When naturalist Joseph Tierney comes to catalogue the flora and fauna of the neighborhood, his eligibility as a potential suitor is the talk of the countryside. But while others might care mostly about Joseph Tierney’s handsome face and well-to-do family, little Alice Hapgood is swooning over his interests in natural philosophy. Disguising herself as a boy, Alice volunteers to become his assistant, spending hours each day scouting out the natural wonders of the area and learning to know the real Joseph Tierney in the process. But if Alice’s true identity should be revealed, will Mr. Tierney be grudgingly obligated to offer for her, thus destroying their friendship and any chance at love?
This book does an admirable job making one fall in love with the Hapgood family. Alice is a sweet, sensitive flibbertigibbet with little thought for how the consequences of her actions might impact her family. Joseph is a man of honor, determined to do his duty even to the detriment of his future career and personal happiness…and discovering that he might just be able to have his cake and eat it too. To tell the truth, this novel was my least favorite of the series, but only because some of the subsequent novels were so superb.
This book does an admirable job making one fall in love with the Hapgood family. Alice is a sweet, sensitive flibbertigibbet with little thought for how the consequences of her actions might impact her family. Joseph is a man of honor, determined to do his duty even to the detriment of his future career and personal happiness…and discovering that he might just be able to have his cake and eat it too. To tell the truth, this novel was my least favorite of the series, but only because some of the subsequent novels were so superb.
November 12, 2022
can’t wait to read book two
This was wonderful, heart wrenching, heart warming, angsty and fun. Thank you Austenesque Reviews for tipping us off to this series. Romantic and clean at the same time.
I adored the Hero and heroine. Alice Hapgood has been different all her life, wishing to explore the outdoors rather than embroider, play the pianoforte, or sit quietly with her hands folded in her lap. If you ever see her in that position be assured her hands will be clenched. How can she meet and help the visiting naturalist except by dressing as a boy.
Mr Joseph Tierney wants to become a celebrated naturalist but has to start small, with a commission assignment to explore the area around the estate of a Mr Marlton. He just happens to find more scheming mothers and daughters and even fathers who have marriage in mind much more than ‘dead things.’ But now, Arthur…he’s a helper, a confidant, a source of happiness and amazement he finds nowhere else but can’t find anything about ‘him’ as no one admits to knowing him.
I highly recommended this. Hard to categorize but I’ll take a stab at ‘Heyeresque.’ I loved it.
This was wonderful, heart wrenching, heart warming, angsty and fun. Thank you Austenesque Reviews for tipping us off to this series. Romantic and clean at the same time.
I adored the Hero and heroine. Alice Hapgood has been different all her life, wishing to explore the outdoors rather than embroider, play the pianoforte, or sit quietly with her hands folded in her lap. If you ever see her in that position be assured her hands will be clenched. How can she meet and help the visiting naturalist except by dressing as a boy.
Mr Joseph Tierney wants to become a celebrated naturalist but has to start small, with a commission assignment to explore the area around the estate of a Mr Marlton. He just happens to find more scheming mothers and daughters and even fathers who have marriage in mind much more than ‘dead things.’ But now, Arthur…he’s a helper, a confidant, a source of happiness and amazement he finds nowhere else but can’t find anything about ‘him’ as no one admits to knowing him.
I highly recommended this. Hard to categorize but I’ll take a stab at ‘Heyeresque.’ I loved it.
May 11, 2025
In all honesty, about two hours in I was going to make this a DNF as it was not holding my attention… but, I’m glad I finished it.
Joseph Tierney, a naturalist, has the amazing luck to find an assistant who actually knows what he’s talking about.
Unfortunately, he later finds out that Arthur is not what he seemed…
In fact, Arthur is actually Alice….
It’s a sweet story, in times past, and in the last couple of hours, it DID hold my attention… so there’s that!
Not my favorite, but good just the same!!
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
#TheNaturalist by #ChristinaDudley and narrated by #KatherineAnderson.
*** RELEASE DATE IS COMING SOON….5/13/25! So, look for it then!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #TantorAudio for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
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Joseph Tierney, a naturalist, has the amazing luck to find an assistant who actually knows what he’s talking about.
Unfortunately, he later finds out that Arthur is not what he seemed…
In fact, Arthur is actually Alice….
It’s a sweet story, in times past, and in the last couple of hours, it DID hold my attention… so there’s that!
Not my favorite, but good just the same!!
3 ⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
#TheNaturalist by #ChristinaDudley and narrated by #KatherineAnderson.
*** RELEASE DATE IS COMING SOON….5/13/25! So, look for it then!! ***
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #TantorAudio for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
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January 15, 2025
A charming gentle low stakes romance. The writing style and prose felt more formal than what you’d see in a more modern Historical Romance, but that’s what I was hoping for with the cover art. This put me more in mind of Austen and Heyer. I found our Hero and Heroine a little young, but they were both very serious minded in characterization. Although Alice has her dramatic moments. Two adorable botany and nature nerds falling in love. I enjoyed the backdrop of Somerset and our characters exploring and cataloging its birds, bees, and trees. This honestly was exactly what I wanted it to be. I’m honestly fairly interested in continuing the series, I really enjoyed the personalities and antics of Alice’s blustery father and mischievous sisters.
December 29, 2025
Fun story of a naturalist Joseph Tierney who accidentally comes across Alice Hapgood who escapes the confines of the roles of young women in her day by dressing as a young boy to explore nature around her. He requests that this boy be his assistant, and because she is so obsessed with nature, she accepts even as “Arthur” so she can learn from him. A friendship ensues until the truth comes out. I enjoyed this story very much, but the choices of Alice got under my skin at times.
July 17, 2022
I liked this quite a lot, probably enough to be hooked into reading more by this author. Very well written in the Georgette tradition, and as a matter of fact, with more interesting characters than hers, and no jarring missteps in the regency idiom.
May 3, 2024
I know that in most regency novels you know almost from the start how it's going to end, but this one went on longer than it should have. I'm giving it a three, but it's more like a two and a half. I have read other series by Dudley and enjoyed them, so I am hoping that the rest of this series is better than the first book.
August 9, 2022
Alice is a ninny. Joseph is an idiot.
March 20, 2022
I was in the mood for Jane Austin but I’ve read her books. This was the perfect next step! I especially appreciated the developed characterization of Alice, one who desires a life of science but is banned from a man’s world. Well, not this Alice! I guess I could identify with her. A perfect read this weekend with a roaring fire and snow outside.
May 3, 2025
This one is going on my list of favourite books, I could not put it down!
It was sooo funny, I laughed out loud multiple times!
The romance was great, there was banter, tension, angst, misunderstandings and realisations.
All the characters were well-written, relatable, had distinct personalities and were described really vividly.
There were even some twists I didn't see coming.
Highly recommend!
It was sooo funny, I laughed out loud multiple times!
The romance was great, there was banter, tension, angst, misunderstandings and realisations.
All the characters were well-written, relatable, had distinct personalities and were described really vividly.
There were even some twists I didn't see coming.
Highly recommend!
January 22, 2015
The Naturalist was delightful. I found the characters and events utterly charming. The author captured the period language very well, and I willingly suspended my usual critical scrutiny of the accuracy of portrayal of the Georgian era and its mores. I even generally enjoyed the slapstick scenes, which normally would bother me. And the domestic scenes of the Hapgood family were wonderful.
My one criticism would be that I found the scene with the eminent scientists, and how it came to pass, implausible. As it is a scene that has to carry a major transformation in a main character's mindset, that is a problem.
But all in all, this was a great pleasure to read.
My one criticism would be that I found the scene with the eminent scientists, and how it came to pass, implausible. As it is a scene that has to carry a major transformation in a main character's mindset, that is a problem.
But all in all, this was a great pleasure to read.
August 19, 2015
This was such a sweet novel. I love the ones where the main protagonist is unconventional- in this case, she's a Naturalist on the sly, wearing boys clothes and fishing, etc. You can imagine what kind of trouble would arise from this in the early 19th century.
A professional naturalist comes to town and requires an assistant. Hijinks ensue. But also a lovely friendship.
The story was surprisingly simmery, given that two dudes were supposedly working together.
I'm glad there's a sequel featuring the rakish Frederick Tierney.
A professional naturalist comes to town and requires an assistant. Hijinks ensue. But also a lovely friendship.
The story was surprisingly simmery, given that two dudes were supposedly working together.
I'm glad there's a sequel featuring the rakish Frederick Tierney.
March 1, 2023
I don't think anyone had enough personality for this book. I liked the bones of it, but it was too short to really get into the meat of it- we were halfway done before there was a second meeting of our two MCs where she wasn't pretending to be a boy. It all felt a little rushy-rushy at the end and this was definitely more comedy than romance. Some have said Heyer-esque but I think that's just because it's a traditional regency- 1 or 2 kisses, no explicit scenes. I might go on with the series but the next sister was so unrelentingly boring I'll have to talk myself into it.
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