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The Lady Emily Capers #1
Secrets and Sensibilities
When art instructor Hannah Alexander agrees to accompany four of her students on a country house visit before Easter, she never dreams of entering into a dalliance with the owner David Tenant, the handsome new Earl of Brentfield. But one moment in his company and she’s in danger of losing her heart. There are secrets aplenty at Brentfield, enough to challenge any lady’s sensibilities, even those of Hannah’s protégé, Lady Emily Southwell. As events unfold at Brentfield, Hannah quickly learns that loving David comes at a price, to her future plans of being a portrait painter, to her position as a teacher, and to her very life.
This clean romance with a touch of romantic suspense was previously published by Zebra as A Dangerous Dalliance.
This clean romance with a touch of romantic suspense was previously published by Zebra as A Dangerous Dalliance.
206 pages, ebook
First published May 1, 2000
616 people are currently reading
933 people want to read
About the author
Regina Scott
136 books1,008 followersRegina Scott started writing novels in the third grade. Thankfully for literature as we know it, she didn’t actually sell her first novel until she had learned a bit more about writing. Since her first Regency romance was published in 1998, her stories have traveled the globe, with translations in many languages including Dutch, German, Italian, and Portuguese. She is now the author of more than 50 works of warm, witty historical romance.
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
She and her husband of 30 years reside in Washington State on the way to Mt. Rainier. Regina Scott has driven four in hand, learned to fence, sailed on a tall ship, and dressed as a Regency dandy, all in the name of research, of course. Sign up for her free alert service to hear when the next book will be out or on sale at https://subscribe.reginascott.com/. You can find her online blogging at www.nineteenteen.com. Learn more about her at www.reginascott.com and connect with her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/authorreginascott .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
May 11, 2016
This is the first book in the Lady Emily Capers, and as I find Regina Scott’s writing very enjoyable, I am thrilled to begin what is a new series to me.
Hannah is an art teacher acting as a chaperone to several students as they visit one of their aunts, the widowed Lady Brentfield. One of the best parts about her character is the selfless attitude she expresses throughout, but I really enjoyed her growth through the novel, from quiet, insecure spinster, to confident woman who finally knows her own mind, abilities, and value.
David is an unusual Regency hero—his American heritage and upbringing give him a humorous bent at times and call attention to some of the ridiculous rules of the period at others. The reader gets the opportunity to learn some of the conventions along with him, giving us more historical grounding and understanding of some of the customs to which ladies and gentlemen adhered. And when it seems like nonsense to him, he is willing to throw all accepted practice to the wind, giving him a rakish quality without making him into a caricature of either an English gentleman or a bumbling American.
Too often within historical fiction, it feels as if a plot could take place in any time period. But in this novel the words, phrasing, mannerisms and situations locate us firmly in the Regency era. Discussions about entails, proper bowing based on social station, being “bored to flinders,” and “desultory” conversations are only a few examples of how she skillfully immerses us in the setting without resorting to lecturing the reader.
With wonderful characters and humor, this delightful Regency romantic mystery is sure to please fans of the genre. I would highly recommend it to those who are looking for a fun read with a sweet romance and a few luscious kisses.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for this honest review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
Hannah is an art teacher acting as a chaperone to several students as they visit one of their aunts, the widowed Lady Brentfield. One of the best parts about her character is the selfless attitude she expresses throughout, but I really enjoyed her growth through the novel, from quiet, insecure spinster, to confident woman who finally knows her own mind, abilities, and value.
David is an unusual Regency hero—his American heritage and upbringing give him a humorous bent at times and call attention to some of the ridiculous rules of the period at others. The reader gets the opportunity to learn some of the conventions along with him, giving us more historical grounding and understanding of some of the customs to which ladies and gentlemen adhered. And when it seems like nonsense to him, he is willing to throw all accepted practice to the wind, giving him a rakish quality without making him into a caricature of either an English gentleman or a bumbling American.
Too often within historical fiction, it feels as if a plot could take place in any time period. But in this novel the words, phrasing, mannerisms and situations locate us firmly in the Regency era. Discussions about entails, proper bowing based on social station, being “bored to flinders,” and “desultory” conversations are only a few examples of how she skillfully immerses us in the setting without resorting to lecturing the reader.
With wonderful characters and humor, this delightful Regency romantic mystery is sure to please fans of the genre. I would highly recommend it to those who are looking for a fun read with a sweet romance and a few luscious kisses.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in exchange for this honest review. All of the opinions expressed are my own.
January 2, 2018
3.5 stars for my first novel by Regina Scott. This is the first book in the Lady Emily Capers series. Hannah Alexander is an art teacher at the Barnsley School for Young Ladies. She's been assigned to be the chaperone for a group of 4 young ladies who will be visiting the recently widowed Lady Brentfield (one of the young ladies is her niece) over the Easter holidays. Upon arrival Miss Alexander and her charges meet the new owner of the manor, David Tenant, the new Earl of Brentfield, not long arrived from Boston. There are paintings and other works of art missing or moved in the huge manor. Because of her knowledge of art David enlists Hannah to help him identify what's missing. After a few days in David's company Hannah wonders if it's possible to fall in love so quickly and if it's even possible for her to be with David since she's a teacher and a portrait painter.
This book was a change of pace from what I'd been reading, and I do like Regency novels. I enjoyed David's character because he was from Boston and was still learning about how to be a Lord, like the different types of bowing depending on the person's station. He didn't care about people's stations and lording his position over others.
Hannah goes from thinking of herself as a never-to-marry spinster and lowly portrait painter to gaining courage to stand up to the overbearing Lady Brentfield.
Even the four young ladies all had some growth to their characters in the story. Even Priscilla (Lady Brentfield's niece) was less selfish by the end of the story. I liked how they all helped Miss Alexander get dressed up for David--loaning her a dress and jewelry, and helping her fix her hair.
This is a clean romance with some mystery/suspense.
This book was a change of pace from what I'd been reading, and I do like Regency novels. I enjoyed David's character because he was from Boston and was still learning about how to be a Lord, like the different types of bowing depending on the person's station. He didn't care about people's stations and lording his position over others.
Hannah goes from thinking of herself as a never-to-marry spinster and lowly portrait painter to gaining courage to stand up to the overbearing Lady Brentfield.
Even the four young ladies all had some growth to their characters in the story. Even Priscilla (Lady Brentfield's niece) was less selfish by the end of the story. I liked how they all helped Miss Alexander get dressed up for David--loaning her a dress and jewelry, and helping her fix her hair.
This is a clean romance with some mystery/suspense.
June 5, 2016
Rating: 2.5
It was an enjoyable read, however I found it bland. The so called mystery was not much of a mystery at all, the characters pretty "thin" developed and the plot was almost not there. But, although I would've liked to see more passion between the leads, and perhaps more color in the other characters, I liked the book. The writing was decent and easy to follow.
This book was like a cup of cheap (in lack of a better word) tea: comforting, yet not quite awakening your taste buds :)
It was an enjoyable read, however I found it bland. The so called mystery was not much of a mystery at all, the characters pretty "thin" developed and the plot was almost not there. But, although I would've liked to see more passion between the leads, and perhaps more color in the other characters, I liked the book. The writing was decent and easy to follow.
This book was like a cup of cheap (in lack of a better word) tea: comforting, yet not quite awakening your taste buds :)
October 6, 2018
Absolutely the best thing in this book was David, a beta hero. I give him 4 stars, furthermore, if someone placed him in a better story he could deserve even 5 stars.
The other characters, especially Hannah and the girls and the mystery was for 3 stars.
The rest (the style of writing, an atmosphere etc.) was only ok (2 stars).
So, to me, it was somewhere between 2/3 stars but David rounds it up.
The other characters, especially Hannah and the girls and the mystery was for 3 stars.
The rest (the style of writing, an atmosphere etc.) was only ok (2 stars).
So, to me, it was somewhere between 2/3 stars but David rounds it up.
May 19, 2014
Originally read as A Dangerous Dalliance. I enjoyed this one, I think I'd like it even more a second time around, especially knowing there is a sequel now. A fun regency with a light mystery. I look forward to reading it again.
Content: Clean
Content: Clean
October 4, 2018
So, I was into this while I was reading it, but it also felt very... simplistic. I mean, don't get me wrong, there are secret passageways in a country estate, so obviously I'm totally there for that. This is another case of the villain being so obvious that you have to wonder why anyone puts up with the shenanigans that transpire though. David in particular could have used a good shake. Particularly in the context of him (as the new heir to an Earldom) refusing to acknowledge the disproportionate consequence issue in terms of his and Hannah's (an art teacher) relative standing in society. I mean, the fact that the novel is clean helps a bit, and some of it is mitigated by him essentially being cast as semi-clueless American who does not understand the British class system. It's not quite good enough though, because his friend sits him down and explains the realities to him point blank, as does Hannah.
Also, not sure why these are called the "Lady Emily" books. She's something of a minor character, and I wouldn't say she makes any huge contributions to any 'solving' of the mystery. But that's a small quibble.
I mean, fun when I was reading it, but I forgot about it entirely, until I double checked the books I'd read on my kobo in the past week.
Also, not sure why these are called the "Lady Emily" books. She's something of a minor character, and I wouldn't say she makes any huge contributions to any 'solving' of the mystery. But that's a small quibble.
I mean, fun when I was reading it, but I forgot about it entirely, until I double checked the books I'd read on my kobo in the past week.
September 27, 2018
Nice read
Enjoy the book. It had romance and very humanlike characters who can come through if circumstances require it. Very nice plot with a surprise ending as to who did it.
Enjoy the book. It had romance and very humanlike characters who can come through if circumstances require it. Very nice plot with a surprise ending as to who did it.
January 17, 2020
The mystery part was totally unconvincing but the story as a whole was sweet. Not quite three stars though but close 😊
April 6, 2017
While this story had some intrigue and romance, overall I was left wanting.
It had real possibilities. Missing works of art, suspected murder, and a budding romance between people of differing stations in life. The premise worked, but the story just didn't deliver.
Secrets and Sensibilities had one-dimensional characters, a Yank who was supposed to be savvy, but came across as a stereotypical Yank, and evil Lady who had no likable characteristics, and the school marm who was beautiful and underappreciated. And...it was written with a little too much contemporary flair. I don't doubt that it takes real skill to write a regency novel, but throwing in a few archaic words and the right kind of clothing does not make for compelling regency.
And I don't like to mention editing errors, but this book was riddled with them - sometimes more than one on a page. There were missing words or additional words (usually articles) and confused pronouns. It was very distracting.
So, while the essence of the story was good, I will probably not return to this author.
It had real possibilities. Missing works of art, suspected murder, and a budding romance between people of differing stations in life. The premise worked, but the story just didn't deliver.
Secrets and Sensibilities had one-dimensional characters, a Yank who was supposed to be savvy, but came across as a stereotypical Yank, and evil Lady who had no likable characteristics, and the school marm who was beautiful and underappreciated. And...it was written with a little too much contemporary flair. I don't doubt that it takes real skill to write a regency novel, but throwing in a few archaic words and the right kind of clothing does not make for compelling regency.
And I don't like to mention editing errors, but this book was riddled with them - sometimes more than one on a page. There were missing words or additional words (usually articles) and confused pronouns. It was very distracting.
So, while the essence of the story was good, I will probably not return to this author.
January 28, 2016
Clean fun regency romance.What a fun story. I liked it from the beginning to the end. Good characters and an interesting story. It was a fun well paced book with a good plot. The whole series looks fun to read. I like Mrs Scotts writing style and will be reading more of her books.
April 13, 2017
Sweet romance.
This story was clean, and fun. I will enjoy the rest of the series. I liked these characters. Glad to find another clean author.
This story was clean, and fun. I will enjoy the rest of the series. I liked these characters. Glad to find another clean author.
March 17, 2024
This was really fun and enjoyable. The hero was appealing, the setting was interesting and the mystery had some fun aspects you don’t always see. Enjoyable :)
June 25, 2025
2.5 ⭐️ personally
August 29, 2020
Love at first sight. Didn't quite buy it. David was a little too brash and winked a lot. Hannah was insecure in her own abilities. The bad 'guy' was obvious from the beginning. A rather mild mystery. The young ladies have potential for follow-up books.
May 23, 2016
This book was enjoyable, easy to read and filled with many humorous lines, especially in the first half. The story was clean and combined both romance and mystery.
Hannah Alexander was a self taught artist. She taught art at a ladies college but her dream was to paint for a living. She was ordered by the headmistress of the college to chaperone one of the student's, Priscilla Tate, together with a few of her friends, over the Easter holidays at the home of Priscilla's aunt, Lady Brentfield. Her aunt who was recently widowed, was looking forward to the girls' company over Easter and wished to help prepare them for their first Season.
David Tennant, (the Earl of Brentford) was an American from Boston. He was the nearest living male relative to the deceased former Earl. Upon his arrival in England to claim his inheritance, the proud widow, Lady Brentfield tried to capture his attention but to no avail. Realizing there was no hope for herself, she tried flaunting her niece Priscilla in front of David hoping to compromise him into marrying the young girl. David, however was instantly smitten by the chaperone, Miss Alexander and made it obvious from the beginning, that he only had eyes for Hannah. I really liked David's hard working, easy going and unpretentious manner. David's upbringing in Boston was vastly different from Lady Brentfield's. He was not sure he was cut out to be an Earl. He cared about the estate and the people running it, but he did not like Lady Brentfield's high expectations of what an Earl should be like. Quoting from the novel, in Boston:
" A man was judged on his intelligence, his character, and his skills. David had never been found wanting in any area. Yet here, just because of a thin and distant bloodline, he was expected to behave as if he had been elevated to the status of demigod. It was downright blasphemous, and he refused to do it".
Even though the romance between the Earl and Hannah happened in a short space of time, it was sweet. I liked David's forward and honest manner. Hannah, although a little shy at first, did not hesitate to reveal her feelings for him when his life was in danger. I also liked the way the young girls formed a special friendship with each other, as well as with Hannah and David by the end of the book. I liked this author's writing style and I will be reading the next book in the "Lady Emily Capers" series in the near future.
Hannah Alexander was a self taught artist. She taught art at a ladies college but her dream was to paint for a living. She was ordered by the headmistress of the college to chaperone one of the student's, Priscilla Tate, together with a few of her friends, over the Easter holidays at the home of Priscilla's aunt, Lady Brentfield. Her aunt who was recently widowed, was looking forward to the girls' company over Easter and wished to help prepare them for their first Season.
David Tennant, (the Earl of Brentford) was an American from Boston. He was the nearest living male relative to the deceased former Earl. Upon his arrival in England to claim his inheritance, the proud widow, Lady Brentfield tried to capture his attention but to no avail. Realizing there was no hope for herself, she tried flaunting her niece Priscilla in front of David hoping to compromise him into marrying the young girl. David, however was instantly smitten by the chaperone, Miss Alexander and made it obvious from the beginning, that he only had eyes for Hannah. I really liked David's hard working, easy going and unpretentious manner. David's upbringing in Boston was vastly different from Lady Brentfield's. He was not sure he was cut out to be an Earl. He cared about the estate and the people running it, but he did not like Lady Brentfield's high expectations of what an Earl should be like. Quoting from the novel, in Boston:
" A man was judged on his intelligence, his character, and his skills. David had never been found wanting in any area. Yet here, just because of a thin and distant bloodline, he was expected to behave as if he had been elevated to the status of demigod. It was downright blasphemous, and he refused to do it".
Even though the romance between the Earl and Hannah happened in a short space of time, it was sweet. I liked David's forward and honest manner. Hannah, although a little shy at first, did not hesitate to reveal her feelings for him when his life was in danger. I also liked the way the young girls formed a special friendship with each other, as well as with Hannah and David by the end of the book. I liked this author's writing style and I will be reading the next book in the "Lady Emily Capers" series in the near future.
November 12, 2013
This novel is a bit of a departure from Scott's other books. It takes place after The Twelve Days of Christmas and just before La Petite Four. It introduces the characters of La Petite Four. There is also a mystery which must be solved and murder to avoid. The reader knows exactly who the villain is and what the villain's motivation is. It's painfully obvious yet the characters don't realize it until the end. The villain is very diabolical. I felt a bit sorry for the villain at first but then they went way over the top to try to gain the upper hand. The villain is truly nasty and someone the reader will love to hate. The romance is not secondary to the mystery as in Georgette Heyer's traditional Regencies. The romance takes front and center with love at first sight. I always find love at first sight a bit silly but this time the characters seemed attracted to one another and seemed interested in getting to know each other. The romance is sweet even though Hannah and David break a lot of rules. The young ladies are spoiled and selfish. They're stereotypical upper class young ladies and don't show a whole lot of character growth. Only Priscilla grows as a result of events in the novel. We also learn more about some of the characters featured in previous novels, which is always fun. This is not my favorite of Scott's novels, but it will please fans of traditional Regencies and sweet Regencies.
July 24, 2016
I liked this one. I'd say this was a fun mystery, but it was pretty obvious who the bad guy was. It was still fun though and I liked the characters.
It also ends like there may be a companion novel, does anyone know?
Content: Clean.
**Update: Republished 2013 under Secrets and Sensibilities (Regency Romance)
It also ends like there may be a companion novel, does anyone know?
Content: Clean.
**Update: Republished 2013 under Secrets and Sensibilities (Regency Romance)
May 9, 2017
I wanted to like this book, but it was flat and in need good a good editor. The characters and plot were thin and not particularly engaging. Considering the title, I expected a Regency romance, but none of the characters behaved in the manner I anticipated so I was disappointed. It was clean, but not satisfying enough for me to seek out this author again.
May 8, 2016
Just okay...not compelling in the least.
This was an okay read. It didn't hold my interest but I like to finish stories. I would say this is a light romance. I found the main couple characters lacking passion. The plot was so evident, the mystery was not a mystery.
This was an okay read. It didn't hold my interest but I like to finish stories. I would say this is a light romance. I found the main couple characters lacking passion. The plot was so evident, the mystery was not a mystery.
May 12, 2016
This is a cute Regency 'mystery' where a teacher accompanies four students to a house party as a chaperone; meets the new Duke - an American - and falls in love.
August 17, 2017
.
A nice, clean, Regency romance with some mysterious suspense and thrills thown in made a very compelling read.
A nice, clean, Regency romance with some mysterious suspense and thrills thown in made a very compelling read.
August 1, 2022
This novel is a sort of regency mystery & romance story. The protagonist is an art teacher for young ladies who is planning to become an independent, professional artist-No easy feet in regency times for a woman due to the patriarchal views of the time-who is maneuvered into chaperoning a group of young ladies to visit a noble household where a supposed murder may have occurred. Since she is an artist, there is an interesting narrative characterization technique where our protagonist pictures characters as subjects for a painting, allowing for the reader to differentiate and understand the personality and physical appearance of character turned art piece-I found this really affective and interesting.
In addition to the wonderful narrative technique and interesting characters, the author also does a wonderful job with pacing. Observe this excerpt:
“Hannah, it was hoped, would marry a country squire and raise children. But Hannah had fallen in love, with her painting.”
Many writers will dogishly try to follow grammar arcana and ignore the pacing potential of punctuation samples. In our above sample the writer uses the last coma to make an ironic joke of expectations while also continuing the back ground information on our heroine. Well done indeed!
The narrative continues on in an interesting manner that I at least enjoyed reading. There were flashes of dramatic irony, humor, and romance that pulls the reader along. While each of the girls is interesting in her own way, Emily is my and probably most readers favorite-she seems to have the soul of an old, grumpy man despite being a bright, young lady. Wonderful dichotomy! The earl himself is a picture of contradictions, being originated from working class America but now an earl. Clearly the author has an amazing hand at making engaging characters to populate her plots.
As one cannot make enough of Lady Emily, here are a few examples of the grumpy lady sleuth in training.
*
“But as the short journey wore on, the girls grew more restive.
‘We shall all be crushed inside this carriage,’ Lady Emily promised after they had bumped some distance from Barnsley. ‘He’ll roll it on the next curve, you wait and see.’”
*
“‘I hope this is a pleasant visit,’ she muttered, tone implying she sincerely doubted it.”
*
“‘Someone should catalog it,’ Lady Emily muttered. ‘Otherwise, who knows what the visitors will run off with.’”
*
“‘He must have given up his vows for her,’ Lady Emily muttered to her friends. ‘They probably tortured him for it.’”
*
[on suggestions on what music to play next]
“‘A battle hymn,’ Lady Emily suggested,’or better, a dirge.’”
*
One can almost picture an old man flipping through the morning paper with a cup of coffee scowling at everyone in the dear lady’s replies. Anyway, i digress . . . Onwards then.
*spoiler*
Eventually the plot comes to a choice point where the protagonist must choose between her art and her love. That she immediately thinks to choose love seems strange to me-seems a more fateful, all consuming decision than that quick a resolution.
Further, as the plot continues and the antagonist is revealed in not so subtle ways that would make Disney villains everywhere shake their heads in shame, we are left with some indisputable facts-the mystery and adventure are back drops for the interactions of the characters. While they-the murder and art mystery, the adventure, and danger-are well enough, the real plot is the wonderful interactions of the characters, which I found absolutely charming.
*end spoiler*
I originally was going to end this review with unsolicited begging for the author to write a solo adventure for lady Emily where she is the prot, but it seems this already has been done-can not wait to begin these. In conclusion, this book is a charming bit of off color regency romance filled with character growth and all sorts of adventure and intrigue. I recommend it and give it 4 out of 5 dire Lady Emilys.
In addition to the wonderful narrative technique and interesting characters, the author also does a wonderful job with pacing. Observe this excerpt:
“Hannah, it was hoped, would marry a country squire and raise children. But Hannah had fallen in love, with her painting.”
Many writers will dogishly try to follow grammar arcana and ignore the pacing potential of punctuation samples. In our above sample the writer uses the last coma to make an ironic joke of expectations while also continuing the back ground information on our heroine. Well done indeed!
The narrative continues on in an interesting manner that I at least enjoyed reading. There were flashes of dramatic irony, humor, and romance that pulls the reader along. While each of the girls is interesting in her own way, Emily is my and probably most readers favorite-she seems to have the soul of an old, grumpy man despite being a bright, young lady. Wonderful dichotomy! The earl himself is a picture of contradictions, being originated from working class America but now an earl. Clearly the author has an amazing hand at making engaging characters to populate her plots.
As one cannot make enough of Lady Emily, here are a few examples of the grumpy lady sleuth in training.
*
“But as the short journey wore on, the girls grew more restive.
‘We shall all be crushed inside this carriage,’ Lady Emily promised after they had bumped some distance from Barnsley. ‘He’ll roll it on the next curve, you wait and see.’”
*
“‘I hope this is a pleasant visit,’ she muttered, tone implying she sincerely doubted it.”
*
“‘Someone should catalog it,’ Lady Emily muttered. ‘Otherwise, who knows what the visitors will run off with.’”
*
“‘He must have given up his vows for her,’ Lady Emily muttered to her friends. ‘They probably tortured him for it.’”
*
[on suggestions on what music to play next]
“‘A battle hymn,’ Lady Emily suggested,’or better, a dirge.’”
*
One can almost picture an old man flipping through the morning paper with a cup of coffee scowling at everyone in the dear lady’s replies. Anyway, i digress . . . Onwards then.
*spoiler*
Eventually the plot comes to a choice point where the protagonist must choose between her art and her love. That she immediately thinks to choose love seems strange to me-seems a more fateful, all consuming decision than that quick a resolution.
Further, as the plot continues and the antagonist is revealed in not so subtle ways that would make Disney villains everywhere shake their heads in shame, we are left with some indisputable facts-the mystery and adventure are back drops for the interactions of the characters. While they-the murder and art mystery, the adventure, and danger-are well enough, the real plot is the wonderful interactions of the characters, which I found absolutely charming.
*end spoiler*
I originally was going to end this review with unsolicited begging for the author to write a solo adventure for lady Emily where she is the prot, but it seems this already has been done-can not wait to begin these. In conclusion, this book is a charming bit of off color regency romance filled with character growth and all sorts of adventure and intrigue. I recommend it and give it 4 out of 5 dire Lady Emilys.
May 25, 2018
This was just a delight! I loved every moment of reading this, and if you like the Regency era, and spunky, underdog heroines, you might love this book too!
Hannah is a terrific main character! I liked pretty much everything about her. She has moments of giving in to despair, but given her life situation and the stupidity of British society of the time, that's understandable so I didn't hold it against her. When the times came, Hannah stood up, for herself and for others, and I loved her for that!
The rest of the girls, I mostly liked, although they had moments of annoying me. To be fair, though, that's who and what young ladies of the era were like, and at the end of the day all of them had good hearts and did the right thing.
David and Asheram I absolutely adored! They made a formidable team, and their interactions made me laugh.
The requisite romance between Hannah and David was sweet. Although you more or less know how things are going to work out, the author did a great job of putting obstacles in their path, some of which were unexpected and surprisingly exciting for a book of this type. I really thought the author's story was unusual and cleverly conceived and I very much enjoyed reading this.
I would definitely read other books in this series. If you enjoy Regency and are looking for a fun, fast and easy read that will charm and entertain you, I recommend this.
Hannah is a terrific main character! I liked pretty much everything about her. She has moments of giving in to despair, but given her life situation and the stupidity of British society of the time, that's understandable so I didn't hold it against her. When the times came, Hannah stood up, for herself and for others, and I loved her for that!
The rest of the girls, I mostly liked, although they had moments of annoying me. To be fair, though, that's who and what young ladies of the era were like, and at the end of the day all of them had good hearts and did the right thing.
David and Asheram I absolutely adored! They made a formidable team, and their interactions made me laugh.
The requisite romance between Hannah and David was sweet. Although you more or less know how things are going to work out, the author did a great job of putting obstacles in their path, some of which were unexpected and surprisingly exciting for a book of this type. I really thought the author's story was unusual and cleverly conceived and I very much enjoyed reading this.
I would definitely read other books in this series. If you enjoy Regency and are looking for a fun, fast and easy read that will charm and entertain you, I recommend this.
October 17, 2018
I picked this up because a. it was free in Amazon and b. it sounded like it might be something similar to Jane Austen's "Sense and Sensiblity".
First off, it was no where near the story line for Austen's story. Which, in a way, was a good thing. That made it easy to let go of comparisons.
The second thing, is that it has some mystery added to it. I actually figured out the 'culprit' early on but their is a major twist that I did not see coming until the end. I liked that.
I also learned something new in this book. I didn't know that the 'season' usually starts after Easter. That was an interesting bit of info that was interesting.
Over all I thought that romance was ok. Both the main characters weren't fascinating enough for me to really invest in them. Maybe the character development needed a little bit more depth to it. I am intrigued by how the young girls will fair in their individual stories, but I wouldn't probably pay for any of it. Maybe I'll just see if they'll be available for free next time.
First off, it was no where near the story line for Austen's story. Which, in a way, was a good thing. That made it easy to let go of comparisons.
The second thing, is that it has some mystery added to it. I actually figured out the 'culprit' early on but their is a major twist that I did not see coming until the end. I liked that.
I also learned something new in this book. I didn't know that the 'season' usually starts after Easter. That was an interesting bit of info that was interesting.
Over all I thought that romance was ok. Both the main characters weren't fascinating enough for me to really invest in them. Maybe the character development needed a little bit more depth to it. I am intrigued by how the young girls will fair in their individual stories, but I wouldn't probably pay for any of it. Maybe I'll just see if they'll be available for free next time.
July 3, 2020
Light Romantic Mystery
As the art teacher of a private girls school, Miss Hannah Alexander has secret dreams of supporting herself as a portrait painter. She knows a career and marriage won't mix, but just maybe...
As the newly minted Earl of Brentfield, Lord David Tenant still holds his American roots within his heart. He knows he must marry, but he intends to only marry for love.
I enjoy mixing in a light and easy read after I've devoured some intense books. Secrets and Sensibilities is a perfect choice. It is a sweet and clean, faith-based romance with a predictable mystery. Regina Scott has deftly blended her characters with a simple plot. I like Hannah and David, and they work well together. The supporting characters are interesting and play their parts well. This stand-alone read has a sweet ending, but it is a bit clipped. Since there is not an epilogue, it's not very satisfying.
Content 411: This is a faith-based romance that is very clean. There is no swearing or sex. This book is suitable for any age reader.
As the art teacher of a private girls school, Miss Hannah Alexander has secret dreams of supporting herself as a portrait painter. She knows a career and marriage won't mix, but just maybe...
As the newly minted Earl of Brentfield, Lord David Tenant still holds his American roots within his heart. He knows he must marry, but he intends to only marry for love.
I enjoy mixing in a light and easy read after I've devoured some intense books. Secrets and Sensibilities is a perfect choice. It is a sweet and clean, faith-based romance with a predictable mystery. Regina Scott has deftly blended her characters with a simple plot. I like Hannah and David, and they work well together. The supporting characters are interesting and play their parts well. This stand-alone read has a sweet ending, but it is a bit clipped. Since there is not an epilogue, it's not very satisfying.
Content 411: This is a faith-based romance that is very clean. There is no swearing or sex. This book is suitable for any age reader.
October 3, 2018
Hannah is an art teacher at an all girls finishing school. She is selected to be the caretaker of 4 girls that are invited to the home of one of the girls rich aunt. Her husband and son have just died.
When Hannah meats the new Earl who is an American it is kind of love at first sight. However the old aunt is trying to either marry off the Earl to her niece or get rid of him. She has been left out of her husband's will. So their visit is quite interesting as she makes several attempts on the new Earl;s life, and also poisons one of the girls and also makes an attempt on Hannah's life.. It is quite a story and definitely keeps you reading far into the night. Great story well writeen.
When Hannah meats the new Earl who is an American it is kind of love at first sight. However the old aunt is trying to either marry off the Earl to her niece or get rid of him. She has been left out of her husband's will. So their visit is quite interesting as she makes several attempts on the new Earl;s life, and also poisons one of the girls and also makes an attempt on Hannah's life.. It is quite a story and definitely keeps you reading far into the night. Great story well writeen.
July 11, 2019
This book was really good. It's been sitting on my shelf getting bypassed for far too long, but I'd made a deal with myself to read the first one that caught my attention today.
I didn't remember what it was about, and thought it may have been PRN... But it's not.
I'm a little confused as to why it's the 'Emily' series, cause she's only support in this one, tho she is the next h, so I figure the explanation will show up then.
I loved the characters and the story was really well put together. And cheapskate me is thinking seriously about forking out for the series, so that's a surprise ;)
0719
I didn't remember what it was about, and thought it may have been PRN... But it's not.
I'm a little confused as to why it's the 'Emily' series, cause she's only support in this one, tho she is the next h, so I figure the explanation will show up then.
I loved the characters and the story was really well put together. And cheapskate me is thinking seriously about forking out for the series, so that's a surprise ;)
0719
April 16, 2021
Utterly charming period novel! I am a great fan of historical fiction and Secrets & Sensibilities fits the bill perfectly with descriptions of gowns, good manners, and grace plus secrets. I should think that this book would be of interest to young ladies who wish to learn something of the perfectly British past. While there is romance, the mystery is the driving force. No sexual content although hearts do flutter. The action moves along quickly with the usual twists and turns that make one wonder if your first guess is correct. Highly recommended as something that will tease your mind towards another place and time.
January 16, 2019
English romance with a gently born art instructor finds love when delivering her young charges to a country house party.
Miss Hannah Alexander knows what she wants and has made sacrifices to become a painter instead of being married off so she is not looking for love when (newly titled) Lord David Tenant, the Earl of Brentfield starts to court her. Some death threats and mysterious stuff happens as Hannah and David wander between the walls for treasure.
Fun fluff read with a HEA.
218 pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
Miss Hannah Alexander knows what she wants and has made sacrifices to become a painter instead of being married off so she is not looking for love when (newly titled) Lord David Tenant, the Earl of Brentfield starts to court her. Some death threats and mysterious stuff happens as Hannah and David wander between the walls for treasure.
Fun fluff read with a HEA.
218 pages and kindle freebie
2 stars
February 15, 2024
Placed to Lead
Miss Hannah Alexander is an art teacher at the Barnsley School, and is volunteered by Ms. Martingale to chaperone four students to the Brentfield estate. Hannah doesn't immediately agree she should go because she would like to paint for Lady Pentercrast as was planned, but realizes she is required to go--it'd also be good for her reputation as the painter she is planning to be. Quite a few activities occur during her and the girls stay with the newly widowed Lady Brentfield.
Miss Hannah Alexander is an art teacher at the Barnsley School, and is volunteered by Ms. Martingale to chaperone four students to the Brentfield estate. Hannah doesn't immediately agree she should go because she would like to paint for Lady Pentercrast as was planned, but realizes she is required to go--it'd also be good for her reputation as the painter she is planning to be. Quite a few activities occur during her and the girls stay with the newly widowed Lady Brentfield.
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