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Miss Fleming #2
The Mysterious Mr. Oliver
Isabelle Fleming has many admirers, but she would trade them all for a sensible man.
Miss Isabelle Fleming is the beauty of the season, but she’s ready to escape from the ton. After a whirl of balls, routs, and Venetian breakfasts, Isabelle has yet to meet a man who can see beyond her looks, and she’s beginning to doubt she ever will. So when her sister Amelia invites her to Stonecroft, her country estate, Isabelle is relieved to get out of London. She plans to spend her time writing a novel and enjoying the scenery, but she doesn’t expect the scenery to include Mr. Oliver, Stonecroft’s new land agent. He’s a former soldier with a mysterious past, and he doesn’t seem to notice Isabelle’s appearance. Isabelle, however, can’t help but notice Mr. Oliver...
The Mysterious Mr. Oliver is a Regency Romantic Comedy about facing your fears, forgiving yourself, and falling in love.
While The Mysterious Mr. Oliver can be read as a standalone, I recommend starting with the first in the series, Miss Fleming Falls in Love.
Heat Level: This is a closed-door romance with no explicit content.
Miss Isabelle Fleming is the beauty of the season, but she’s ready to escape from the ton. After a whirl of balls, routs, and Venetian breakfasts, Isabelle has yet to meet a man who can see beyond her looks, and she’s beginning to doubt she ever will. So when her sister Amelia invites her to Stonecroft, her country estate, Isabelle is relieved to get out of London. She plans to spend her time writing a novel and enjoying the scenery, but she doesn’t expect the scenery to include Mr. Oliver, Stonecroft’s new land agent. He’s a former soldier with a mysterious past, and he doesn’t seem to notice Isabelle’s appearance. Isabelle, however, can’t help but notice Mr. Oliver...
The Mysterious Mr. Oliver is a Regency Romantic Comedy about facing your fears, forgiving yourself, and falling in love.
While The Mysterious Mr. Oliver can be read as a standalone, I recommend starting with the first in the series, Miss Fleming Falls in Love.
Heat Level: This is a closed-door romance with no explicit content.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2023
663 people are currently reading
326 people want to read
About the author
Emma Melbourne
3 books173 followersEmma Melbourne writes romance with strong heroes, stronger heroines, and happy endings. She is an avid reader and a huge fan of Georgette Heyer. She lives in Toronto with her family.
MISS FLEMING FALLS IN LOVE is Emma's first novel. The sequel, THE MYSTERIOUS MR. OLIVER, was released Sept 2 2023.
The third book in the Miss Fleming series, THE HONOURABLE MR. KINCAID, will be released in 2024.
Visit her website, emmamelbourne.com, and sign up for the mailing list to be notified of new releases.
EmmaMelbourneWrites@gmail.com.
MISS FLEMING FALLS IN LOVE is Emma's first novel. The sequel, THE MYSTERIOUS MR. OLIVER, was released Sept 2 2023.
The third book in the Miss Fleming series, THE HONOURABLE MR. KINCAID, will be released in 2024.
Visit her website, emmamelbourne.com, and sign up for the mailing list to be notified of new releases.
EmmaMelbourneWrites@gmail.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
September 6, 2023
3.5⭐️ This was an easy, clean, nice read, but the delightful humor of the first book was missing. That had been the big draw for me. While it hinted at drama, the story’s focus settled upon uncovering aristocratic foibles. Eh, okay.
Isabelle and Oliver lacked chemistry. The first half was slow going. There was a big push by the author to insert two new characters, Lucas Kincaid and his ward, Felicity Taylor. I found their bickering and eye rolling annoying. What a surprise, there was a sneak peek of their upcoming story to be published in 2024. Didn’t bother reading.
Isabelle and Oliver lacked chemistry. The first half was slow going. There was a big push by the author to insert two new characters, Lucas Kincaid and his ward, Felicity Taylor. I found their bickering and eye rolling annoying. What a surprise, there was a sneak peek of their upcoming story to be published in 2024. Didn’t bother reading.
September 11, 2023
This book especially suffered from me reading it directly after the first book in this series which was a triumph. This book, not so much. I did account for that bias though when rating this and I truly feel it still gets 2 stars from me even if I had read it at any other time and if it had no relation to the first Miss Fleming book.
We meet Isabelle Flemming in London being wooed by many prospective suitors due to her beauty. Immediately Isabelle comes across as a very naïve girl who doesn't know her own mind. I'll be honest that this is not my favourite character to read about, but I do enjoy growth arc stories. This is my hint that no such growth arc existed (to me). At least not in a satisfying way. I'm on the fence about whether I should compare and contrast this with the first in the series, but since it was running through my mind while reading this, I think I will. To compare, Amelia (in the first book, and Isabelle's older sister) is a much stronger character. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing to have such a different character, because at the very least it lends for a different experience. However while Amelia had a clear identity, Isabelle never felt fully characterised. All through the book she felt nebulous in nature, and this at best meant I could not connect to the character and at worst fed into some inconsistencies while sucking any investment out of the book that I may have had.
But I digress.
So Isabelle finds herself at her sister's country estate and comes across the new estate manager Oliver who she's somewhat drawn to. I cannot stress enough how very little chemistry existed between Isabelle and Oliver. When done well, in this situation, the reader equally feels swept up. I should feel the spark. I should be anticipating their next meeting. Instead their initial run in in London felt so rote and sparkless. And their second meeting in the country felt contrary to Isabelle's characterisation (which backs up my point of inconsistencies). Like I said (and I realise I'm going around in circles), Isabelle comes across from the first instance as naive and more than a little lost in life. Yet when she meets Oliver for the second time she's very defensive and dare I say assertive when he challenges her using his office for her personal use. This is the same character who nearly ends up in a compromising situation with a suitor because she can't say no to anyone, or even thinks to say no. And there was nothing unique or special in her meeting with Oliver to make me think 'oh, she's different with him'. Instead it all felt very forced and convenient, and very unearned.
But I digress again. And I think the only reason I'm going so hard on this book is I know after this I can write all my praises for the first Miss Fleming book to drive home that this author is great but this particular story didn't work for me.
Okay where was I?
Oliver and Isabelle meet, and he likes her (because she's beautiful) and she likes him because... I'm actually not entirely sold on why. You can tell my main gripe in this book is nothing felt earned. If ever there was a book that's moving pieces around to get to a pre-set destination this is it.
I won't talk anymore about the romance, because now I'm just complaining. I will say three more things about this book.
1) It entirely lacked the charm that pulled off the first book. The same annoying characters were back (which are intentionally annoying), yet there was no humour, no charisma, just painful interactions. And that was disappointing.
2) The character work wasn't great. I've spoken already at some length on Isabelle, so let me spare a thought or two for Oliver. Oliver is supposed to be this "dark and twisty" character after he comes back from war. But we see zero evidence of this. Part of the reason he feels he doesn't deserve Isabelle is because of how damaged he is from the war. But he literally refuses to talk about it to Isabelle or anyone, and he never even muses on it. So we literally see none of the damage that he's hiding behind. From a reader's perspective this is insanely egregious. The entire premise was never justified or validated. Anyway before I continue to rant..
Lastly, 3) This had all the hallmarks of a growth arc novel, but that never eventuated, or at least not in a way that was service to this story.
Anyway, I didn't like this, but as I've alluded to, I absolutely loved and adored the first book in this series, so I'm a fan of the author, this one just didn't work for my tastes.
We meet Isabelle Flemming in London being wooed by many prospective suitors due to her beauty. Immediately Isabelle comes across as a very naïve girl who doesn't know her own mind. I'll be honest that this is not my favourite character to read about, but I do enjoy growth arc stories. This is my hint that no such growth arc existed (to me). At least not in a satisfying way. I'm on the fence about whether I should compare and contrast this with the first in the series, but since it was running through my mind while reading this, I think I will. To compare, Amelia (in the first book, and Isabelle's older sister) is a much stronger character. It wasn't necessarily a bad thing to have such a different character, because at the very least it lends for a different experience. However while Amelia had a clear identity, Isabelle never felt fully characterised. All through the book she felt nebulous in nature, and this at best meant I could not connect to the character and at worst fed into some inconsistencies while sucking any investment out of the book that I may have had.
But I digress.
So Isabelle finds herself at her sister's country estate and comes across the new estate manager Oliver who she's somewhat drawn to. I cannot stress enough how very little chemistry existed between Isabelle and Oliver. When done well, in this situation, the reader equally feels swept up. I should feel the spark. I should be anticipating their next meeting. Instead their initial run in in London felt so rote and sparkless. And their second meeting in the country felt contrary to Isabelle's characterisation (which backs up my point of inconsistencies). Like I said (and I realise I'm going around in circles), Isabelle comes across from the first instance as naive and more than a little lost in life. Yet when she meets Oliver for the second time she's very defensive and dare I say assertive when he challenges her using his office for her personal use. This is the same character who nearly ends up in a compromising situation with a suitor because she can't say no to anyone, or even thinks to say no. And there was nothing unique or special in her meeting with Oliver to make me think 'oh, she's different with him'. Instead it all felt very forced and convenient, and very unearned.
But I digress again. And I think the only reason I'm going so hard on this book is I know after this I can write all my praises for the first Miss Fleming book to drive home that this author is great but this particular story didn't work for me.
Okay where was I?
Oliver and Isabelle meet, and he likes her (because she's beautiful) and she likes him because... I'm actually not entirely sold on why. You can tell my main gripe in this book is nothing felt earned. If ever there was a book that's moving pieces around to get to a pre-set destination this is it.
I won't talk anymore about the romance, because now I'm just complaining. I will say three more things about this book.
1) It entirely lacked the charm that pulled off the first book. The same annoying characters were back (which are intentionally annoying), yet there was no humour, no charisma, just painful interactions. And that was disappointing.
2) The character work wasn't great. I've spoken already at some length on Isabelle, so let me spare a thought or two for Oliver. Oliver is supposed to be this "dark and twisty" character after he comes back from war. But we see zero evidence of this. Part of the reason he feels he doesn't deserve Isabelle is because of how damaged he is from the war. But he literally refuses to talk about it to Isabelle or anyone, and he never even muses on it. So we literally see none of the damage that he's hiding behind. From a reader's perspective this is insanely egregious. The entire premise was never justified or validated. Anyway before I continue to rant..
Lastly, 3) This had all the hallmarks of a growth arc novel, but that never eventuated, or at least not in a way that was service to this story.
Anyway, I didn't like this, but as I've alluded to, I absolutely loved and adored the first book in this series, so I'm a fan of the author, this one just didn't work for my tastes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 16, 2025
I enjoyed this story, But book 1 was a better read.
Oliver the second son of a Duke. Left his family behind him, went to war, then came back and got himself a job on Isabelle sister and brother in laws land.
Where they became friends and then fell in love.
Oliver the second son of a Duke. Left his family behind him, went to war, then came back and got himself a job on Isabelle sister and brother in laws land.
Where they became friends and then fell in love.
August 9, 2024
4 stars
This book is actually better than the first one in this series and much, much more funnier. I laughed out loud quite a few times and that is a huge bonus for me. The banter between the two brothers is so smooth and elegant, and when all that is done, Emma Melbourne, our dearest author, is bringing Isabelle's mom in the picture and things get to the next level, because she is utterly, utterly funny in her very direct, borderline rude way.
The love story is beautiful, yet not over the top, nor overwhelming. It is sweet and warms you up in all the corners of your heart.
The characters are amazing and they grow in the reader's eyes as the story unfolds. There is kindness and wisdom and loving thoughts and a sort of space and patience they give each other that makes one wishes to embody all those traits more often.
One of my favourite lines in the book is this one:
“Calling you attractive is like saying Michelangelo had some talent with paint.”
I am really looking forward to read the next one in this series and I am hoping that Adrian and Lucy might have their own happy ending stories in the upcoming books!!!
This book is actually better than the first one in this series and much, much more funnier. I laughed out loud quite a few times and that is a huge bonus for me. The banter between the two brothers is so smooth and elegant, and when all that is done, Emma Melbourne, our dearest author, is bringing Isabelle's mom in the picture and things get to the next level, because she is utterly, utterly funny in her very direct, borderline rude way.
The love story is beautiful, yet not over the top, nor overwhelming. It is sweet and warms you up in all the corners of your heart.
The characters are amazing and they grow in the reader's eyes as the story unfolds. There is kindness and wisdom and loving thoughts and a sort of space and patience they give each other that makes one wishes to embody all those traits more often.
One of my favourite lines in the book is this one:
“Calling you attractive is like saying Michelangelo had some talent with paint.”
I am really looking forward to read the next one in this series and I am hoping that Adrian and Lucy might have their own happy ending stories in the upcoming books!!!
October 7, 2025
A Simple Man
Oliver St. Clair, the second son of a duke returned from war seeking employment. Langley gave him a temporary position as his land agent under the name of Mr. Oliver.
Langley’s wife had invited her younger sister to stay at their estate, and her sister was happy to be in the country. Isabelle preferred to read and was currently writing a novel much to the despair of her mother who hoped she would marry nobility.
Isabelle and Mr. Oliver were drawn to each other and anyone could guess what the outcome would eventually be. Of course, Oliver didn’t think himself worthy of Isabelle and she didn’t wish to marry a man who wanted her simply because she was beautiful.
Isabelle was one of the less intelligent leading ladies for all that she was accused of being a blue stocking. Despite that, this was a charming, clean romance. Five stars.
Oliver St. Clair, the second son of a duke returned from war seeking employment. Langley gave him a temporary position as his land agent under the name of Mr. Oliver.
Langley’s wife had invited her younger sister to stay at their estate, and her sister was happy to be in the country. Isabelle preferred to read and was currently writing a novel much to the despair of her mother who hoped she would marry nobility.
Isabelle and Mr. Oliver were drawn to each other and anyone could guess what the outcome would eventually be. Of course, Oliver didn’t think himself worthy of Isabelle and she didn’t wish to marry a man who wanted her simply because she was beautiful.
Isabelle was one of the less intelligent leading ladies for all that she was accused of being a blue stocking. Despite that, this was a charming, clean romance. Five stars.
May 6, 2025
Very sweet story with practical H and sensible h. He is secretive and she is quite open but they are both very attracted. I really liked this book, with the stupid people being called out, and I enjoyed it very much.
December 12, 2025
3.8 stars
A decent follow up to Miss Fleming Falls in Love. The romance between Oliver and Isabelle was on the very tame side, but was nonetheless very charming and sweet. It even had some nice sparkly moments. And quite a well done take on the hidden identity trope! What I absolutely loved about this book is the wit EM infused in the swift banter whenever the Flemings/Langleys were present. Delicious humour! And a book that made me smile so often deserves a good rating.
P.S. Loved Hermes ❤
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 15, 2024
The wit and humor is fantastic…
My romance-loving heart is full once again. I absolutely love the witty dialogue and fun banter between characters and the romance parts are just as wonderful. I am smiling like a fool and could sigh happily.
My romance-loving heart is full once again. I absolutely love the witty dialogue and fun banter between characters and the romance parts are just as wonderful. I am smiling like a fool and could sigh happily.
September 4, 2023
Dukes son masquerade as land agent
5 stars
Still some witty dialogue...though a lot of it were in the form of argument which I wasn't so keen on. Isabelle, a beauty gets fed up of being treated as a pretty face. Olive is grumpy at the beginning but mellow and realises what a gem she is....will it be Kincaid and miss Taylor next?
5 stars
Still some witty dialogue...though a lot of it were in the form of argument which I wasn't so keen on. Isabelle, a beauty gets fed up of being treated as a pretty face. Olive is grumpy at the beginning but mellow and realises what a gem she is....will it be Kincaid and miss Taylor next?
October 12, 2023
This series! I love everything about it. I hope there are more books on the way!
July 24, 2024
This was cute, but the first one was better- I think I enjoyed the main characters of the first book more than the sister…it was good, just not great
October 15, 2023
I liked the first book better, but I realllyyyyy like this author. I’m looking forward to reading more books by her when she comes out with them.
November 24, 2023
As with Miss Fleming falls in love this was delightful. Tbh, I don't have an awful lot to say, it had me gripped, it's light and easy and funny. It is an absolute joy.
December 29, 2024
4 stars- zero steam- it was ok but I enjoyed the first book more. Isabelle as a character was less interesting than Ameila, which I am sure she would heartily agree with this sentiment. It was nice to have Langley and Ameila in this next story.
I have to say- where is Langleys mother in all this?? And why did she not make an appearance in these books, even though she was guilty of stirring the pot??
I like Oliver but ultimately felt like their limited interactions were not enough for it to feel like "love" had developed, but I did like some of their conversations (below).
Highlights and Spoilers:
“Don’t worry, Miss Fleming,” he said reassuringly. “Rufus is one of my favourite horses. In all the time I’ve known him, I’ve never seen him throw a lady.”
“How long have you known him?”
“Since I came to Stonecroft last week.”
----------
“I don’t think anything is truly unforgivable,” she said earnestly. “Sometimes we do harm despite having good intentions.”
“I’m sure nothing you’ve done is unforgivable,” Oliver said, with a note of condescension in his voice. “I expect your greatest transgression has been something like speaking sharply to your maid.”
“I’ve never spoken sharply to my maid,” Isabelle said simply.
“Taken more than your fair share of the pudding, then.” The suggestion raised Isabelle’s ire. “More than my fair share of the pudding?” she repeated incredulously.
------------
There was a bitter note in Oliver’s laugh. “I don’t think you know what failure is, Isabelle.”
She met his eye. “If I didn’t know before this evening, I certainly do now.” She picked up her candle and stood. “I’m sorry to have kept you from your drink, Mr. Oliver.”
I have to say- where is Langleys mother in all this?? And why did she not make an appearance in these books, even though she was guilty of stirring the pot??
I like Oliver but ultimately felt like their limited interactions were not enough for it to feel like "love" had developed, but I did like some of their conversations (below).
Highlights and Spoilers:
“Don’t worry, Miss Fleming,” he said reassuringly. “Rufus is one of my favourite horses. In all the time I’ve known him, I’ve never seen him throw a lady.”
“How long have you known him?”
“Since I came to Stonecroft last week.”
----------
“I don’t think anything is truly unforgivable,” she said earnestly. “Sometimes we do harm despite having good intentions.”
“I’m sure nothing you’ve done is unforgivable,” Oliver said, with a note of condescension in his voice. “I expect your greatest transgression has been something like speaking sharply to your maid.”
“I’ve never spoken sharply to my maid,” Isabelle said simply.
“Taken more than your fair share of the pudding, then.” The suggestion raised Isabelle’s ire. “More than my fair share of the pudding?” she repeated incredulously.
------------
There was a bitter note in Oliver’s laugh. “I don’t think you know what failure is, Isabelle.”
She met his eye. “If I didn’t know before this evening, I certainly do now.” She picked up her candle and stood. “I’m sorry to have kept you from your drink, Mr. Oliver.”
September 26, 2023
Still very enjoyable
Not quite as amusing or Heyer-esque as the 1st book, but still very enjoyable. Isabella is the diamond of the season's debs, but the men who want her only want her as a prize to be shown off. Oliver sees past her outer appearance & sees her as the person she is. But Oliver is off limits for multiple reasons.
Hardly original, but it's still very sweet & well done. The sisters' French mama is back & still jawdroppingly outrageous.
I'm not sure about Kincaid & his ward. Hopefully, there will be a little more substantive amusement & chemistry in their story next
*Romance level: passionate kisses, but nothing graphic
Not quite as amusing or Heyer-esque as the 1st book, but still very enjoyable. Isabella is the diamond of the season's debs, but the men who want her only want her as a prize to be shown off. Oliver sees past her outer appearance & sees her as the person she is. But Oliver is off limits for multiple reasons.
Hardly original, but it's still very sweet & well done. The sisters' French mama is back & still jawdroppingly outrageous.
I'm not sure about Kincaid & his ward. Hopefully, there will be a little more substantive amusement & chemistry in their story next
*Romance level: passionate kisses, but nothing graphic
June 21, 2025
The Mysterious Mr. Oliver—G/PG
Violence: a couple of punches
Language: about 3 swears
Sex: none, some kissing
Well done! I didn’t think the second in the series could measure up to the first, but I might just like it more! It belongs in the Proper Romance series, along with Edenbrooke. Definitely read the first book before this one, it will only add to your happiness. I’ve recommended this to all my romance-loving girlfriends. So good!
Violence: a couple of punches
Language: about 3 swears
Sex: none, some kissing
Well done! I didn’t think the second in the series could measure up to the first, but I might just like it more! It belongs in the Proper Romance series, along with Edenbrooke. Definitely read the first book before this one, it will only add to your happiness. I’ve recommended this to all my romance-loving girlfriends. So good!
January 19, 2024
This was excellent, well-written, and I loved the sarcastic humor.
September 12, 2023
I think maybe I had too high of hopes for this one. I wanted the sparkle and effortless wit of the first book and instead it felt a bit too over the top and the characters perhaps a bit too stereotypical. I did enjoy it but nowhere near as much as the first one which I adored.
March 22, 2024
Just adorable. Pure fun
June 14, 2025
Overall a sweet enjoyable read. Good if you’re looking for clean regency romance. I missed the witty back and forth that was in the first book and I did find Isabelle’s naïveté a bit annoying. Her comparison of her rather easy life to someone who had seen the horrors of war was ridiculous. The end of the story gets kind of cringey when Oliver starts calling Isabelle my darling and sweetheart.
January 29, 2024
Disappointing
The storyline was bland and rather insipid. The entire story is about a second son of a Duke who lives incognito and works as an estate agent. Nothing much happens until the very end. However, some of the characters were quite delightful. The secondary male character (Robert,Lord Langley) was quite entertaining with his tongue-in-cheek humour as was his wife (Amelia) who was charmingly outspoken. Unfortunately I found the main male character (Mr Oliver) to be colourless and dull. And the main female character (Isabelle) I found totally inappropriate.
She asks the land agent (Mr Oliver) if she can help him paint a fence! In her lovely dress, no less! Really, and she an Earl’s sister-in-law. And she goes directly to the land agent’s cottage to invite him to dinner. Later on she asks him to teach her how to box! Next, the viscount’s brother goes down to breakfast wearing his nightclothes! That is a solecism that would not be tolerated! The actions and behaviours of the character are totally inappropriate … seems like just a lot of nonsense to fill the pages! This writer needs to study the social mores and customs of the regency period. Very sloppy and thoughtless writing.
The development of the characters was insufficient … it was very difficult to relate to or empathize with any of them. Neither one of the main characters was particularly likeable or admirable.
Most of the dialogue is blatant, with no nuances or subtlety whatsoever. It seems contrived and awkward.
Perhaps I judged this book a bit more harshly because I have just finished the Beatrice Hyde Clare Mystery series which were so delightfully entertaining. Most of this book was uneventful; it is only at the end when « Mr Oliver‘s » identity is revealed that there is a bit of action. Too little, too late. I expected a great deal more from this book than what it delivered.
The storyline was bland and rather insipid. The entire story is about a second son of a Duke who lives incognito and works as an estate agent. Nothing much happens until the very end. However, some of the characters were quite delightful. The secondary male character (Robert,Lord Langley) was quite entertaining with his tongue-in-cheek humour as was his wife (Amelia) who was charmingly outspoken. Unfortunately I found the main male character (Mr Oliver) to be colourless and dull. And the main female character (Isabelle) I found totally inappropriate.
She asks the land agent (Mr Oliver) if she can help him paint a fence! In her lovely dress, no less! Really, and she an Earl’s sister-in-law. And she goes directly to the land agent’s cottage to invite him to dinner. Later on she asks him to teach her how to box! Next, the viscount’s brother goes down to breakfast wearing his nightclothes! That is a solecism that would not be tolerated! The actions and behaviours of the character are totally inappropriate … seems like just a lot of nonsense to fill the pages! This writer needs to study the social mores and customs of the regency period. Very sloppy and thoughtless writing.
The development of the characters was insufficient … it was very difficult to relate to or empathize with any of them. Neither one of the main characters was particularly likeable or admirable.
Most of the dialogue is blatant, with no nuances or subtlety whatsoever. It seems contrived and awkward.
Perhaps I judged this book a bit more harshly because I have just finished the Beatrice Hyde Clare Mystery series which were so delightfully entertaining. Most of this book was uneventful; it is only at the end when « Mr Oliver‘s » identity is revealed that there is a bit of action. Too little, too late. I expected a great deal more from this book than what it delivered.
September 19, 2023
I had such high hopes
This plot started out good, then went down. So much chatter about nothing. The addition of a friend of the heroines brother-in-law and his ward was just plain silly. Their bickering and the wards ridiculous behavior was unnecessary. The brother of her sisters husband was another unnecessary character. Just disappointed. It’s too bad, it had potential.
This plot started out good, then went down. So much chatter about nothing. The addition of a friend of the heroines brother-in-law and his ward was just plain silly. Their bickering and the wards ridiculous behavior was unnecessary. The brother of her sisters husband was another unnecessary character. Just disappointed. It’s too bad, it had potential.
November 24, 2023
Stopped reading at page 39 - I couldn't get past the stupidity.
Just the same old stuff you read in other novels. Nothing original. Nothing interesting. Trying to find an interesting novel to read. This isn't it.
Just the same old stuff you read in other novels. Nothing original. Nothing interesting. Trying to find an interesting novel to read. This isn't it.
September 8, 2025
Synopsis: Regency romance that continues the story of Robert and Amelia from “Miss Flemming Falls in Love” but with added emphasis on her younger sister, Isabelle. Isabelle is tired of being the prettiest girl of the season, so she’s happy enough to retire with Amelia and Robert to the country for Amelia’s confinement. While there, she strikes up a friendship with the new, temporary land agent, Mr. Oliver. But Oliver has a secret: his real name is Oliver St. Clair, and he is the second son of a duke. He’s also suffering from PTSD and a bit of a loner. While he offers Isabelle his friendship, teaches her boxing, and takes her writing seriously, she helps him heal by listening to him, reintroducing him to the joys of reading, and getting him a puppy (naturally). But Oliver isn’t the only one falling in love with Isabelle, and she isn’t the only guest at Stonecroft, and he can’t run from his past forever.
Quality: So maybe the characters do feel like they have rather modern expectations, sensibilities, and ease. And maybe the “Regency” language isn’t strictly Austen: for example, Isabelle keeps referencing her “looks,” meaning her appearance, instead of saying that someone is “in excellent looks,” meaning that they seem to be doing well. But those are little things. And I love that the author sprinkles it with little jokes and wry asides. If she doesn’t take herself too seriously, why should we?
Content: There are references to strong attraction between couples, there’s some kissing, but nothing explicit. A gross old man tries to take advantage of a young woman at a ball, but she’s rescued. There’s some swearing, but only under duress. Characters drink - and give each other a hard time for it - and Oliver gets drunk once when he’s upset. References to gambling, having a mistress (not explicit), and a possible suicide.
Conclusion: This series is sweet and funny and entertaining, and I will be reading the 3rd volume.
Quality: So maybe the characters do feel like they have rather modern expectations, sensibilities, and ease. And maybe the “Regency” language isn’t strictly Austen: for example, Isabelle keeps referencing her “looks,” meaning her appearance, instead of saying that someone is “in excellent looks,” meaning that they seem to be doing well. But those are little things. And I love that the author sprinkles it with little jokes and wry asides. If she doesn’t take herself too seriously, why should we?
Content: There are references to strong attraction between couples, there’s some kissing, but nothing explicit. A gross old man tries to take advantage of a young woman at a ball, but she’s rescued. There’s some swearing, but only under duress. Characters drink - and give each other a hard time for it - and Oliver gets drunk once when he’s upset. References to gambling, having a mistress (not explicit), and a possible suicide.
Conclusion: This series is sweet and funny and entertaining, and I will be reading the 3rd volume.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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June 3, 2024While not as amusing as the first book in the series, this is still a piece of solid entertainment. Isabelle is rather sweet despite the fact that she could have been spoiled rotten by the attention she is getting due to her stunning good looks. Her naive letters to her brother which so obviously reveal where her heart is leading her are simply adorable. The mystery of Mr. Oliver is really not much of a puzzle since we are nudged early on to conclude what his true identity is....
As compared to Miss Fleming Falls in Love, there is not much witty banter and the absurd is not as extreme. The closest we get to the chaos which worked so well in the previous installment is the scene between Amelia and Isabelle’s brother William and “Mr. Oliver”. In fact, William seems to grow as a character and I would not be surprised if he got a book of his own. Apparently, Lucas Kincaid and his ward are getting the next book, though. To set the stage, the author has them feature prominently in this book. Unfortunately, they fall a tad flat for me since they seem to confuse sarcasm for healthy wit. We’ll see....
As compared to Miss Fleming Falls in Love, there is not much witty banter and the absurd is not as extreme. The closest we get to the chaos which worked so well in the previous installment is the scene between Amelia and Isabelle’s brother William and “Mr. Oliver”. In fact, William seems to grow as a character and I would not be surprised if he got a book of his own. Apparently, Lucas Kincaid and his ward are getting the next book, though. To set the stage, the author has them feature prominently in this book. Unfortunately, they fall a tad flat for me since they seem to confuse sarcasm for healthy wit. We’ll see....
September 6, 2023
Sweet, Clean Romance!
I have enjoyed the stories of the Fleming Sisters, Amelia, and the beautiful Isabel Fleming. Isabel is shy, yet her beauty draws men like flies to honey, terrible problem, but someone has to endure it, everyone sees her outer beauty, no man appears to look any deeper, and Isabel wants someone to see the real her, she loves books, and she writes, she dreams of being an author, she isn't the extroverted, courageous person her sister is, but she does stand up for her friends when it isn't the popular thing to, which makes her very courageous. I think there are missed opportunities here, Mr. Oliver's PTSD after fighting in the Battle of Waterloo, he has serious issues, but this is not that type of book. It's meant to be sweet and witty, a clean romantic story, where a beautiful young lady falls in love with the handsome land agent, Mr. Oliver, who is a fine example of a hero who deserves the Diamond of The Season.
I highly recommend it.
carolintallahassee
I have enjoyed the stories of the Fleming Sisters, Amelia, and the beautiful Isabel Fleming. Isabel is shy, yet her beauty draws men like flies to honey, terrible problem, but someone has to endure it, everyone sees her outer beauty, no man appears to look any deeper, and Isabel wants someone to see the real her, she loves books, and she writes, she dreams of being an author, she isn't the extroverted, courageous person her sister is, but she does stand up for her friends when it isn't the popular thing to, which makes her very courageous. I think there are missed opportunities here, Mr. Oliver's PTSD after fighting in the Battle of Waterloo, he has serious issues, but this is not that type of book. It's meant to be sweet and witty, a clean romantic story, where a beautiful young lady falls in love with the handsome land agent, Mr. Oliver, who is a fine example of a hero who deserves the Diamond of The Season.
I highly recommend it.
carolintallahassee
September 16, 2023
Oliver was the second son or the spare to the Duke. His older son Rupert was not as strong or athletic as Oliver nor did he have the aptitude for land management and running the massive estates that Oliver had shown. Oliver did not have the temperament for the clergy nor could he be confined behind a desk all day as a barrister. His father offered to buy him a commission in the military. He declined. His father in desperation, cut off his allowance. Oliver won some money in a card game, bought his own commission , changed his name and enlisted in the military. Five years later, he took a job as a land manager for Lord Langley.
Lord Langley’s sister-in-law Isabell had desired to leave London during the season. She was a beautiful girl but very shy. She wanted people to see her as someone more than her external beauty. The ton was shallow and rarely saw anything but the surface. Lord Langley’s wife was happy to retire to their country estate since she was expecting their first child.
Lord Langley’s sister-in-law Isabell had desired to leave London during the season. She was a beautiful girl but very shy. She wanted people to see her as someone more than her external beauty. The ton was shallow and rarely saw anything but the surface. Lord Langley’s wife was happy to retire to their country estate since she was expecting their first child.
November 6, 2023
This story was so heartwarming and uplifting to read!
I throughly enjoyed the growing relationship between Isabelle and Oliver, and how they challenged each other to be more understanding of others.
As some other readers had noted, the dialogue between Isabelle and Oliver was not as witty as the banter between Amelia and Langley, but I think that is why I also enjoyed it so much! Isabelle is much more introverted and less outspoken than her sister, but we see Isabelle have more confidence in herself as the story progresses. The difference in the dialogue and banter between the two sisters really helped me be more invested in Isabelle’s and Oliver’s relationship, and it showed how it contrasted in many ways with Amelia and Langley’s relationship.
However, one character I absolutely adored in both stories is Adrian, Langley’s younger brother. His humor, outlook, and personality added so much color and vibrancy to both stories. Adrian is like that commentator that is viewing something and says things that everyone is thinking but no one would say out-loud. Or he comes up with the most ridiculous statements and shares them with such a serious tone and intention-it brought so much humor to so many scenes throughout.
Overall, this was a fun and engaging read, and I am hoping that there will be more additions to this series.
I throughly enjoyed the growing relationship between Isabelle and Oliver, and how they challenged each other to be more understanding of others.
As some other readers had noted, the dialogue between Isabelle and Oliver was not as witty as the banter between Amelia and Langley, but I think that is why I also enjoyed it so much! Isabelle is much more introverted and less outspoken than her sister, but we see Isabelle have more confidence in herself as the story progresses. The difference in the dialogue and banter between the two sisters really helped me be more invested in Isabelle’s and Oliver’s relationship, and it showed how it contrasted in many ways with Amelia and Langley’s relationship.
However, one character I absolutely adored in both stories is Adrian, Langley’s younger brother. His humor, outlook, and personality added so much color and vibrancy to both stories. Adrian is like that commentator that is viewing something and says things that everyone is thinking but no one would say out-loud. Or he comes up with the most ridiculous statements and shares them with such a serious tone and intention-it brought so much humor to so many scenes throughout.
Overall, this was a fun and engaging read, and I am hoping that there will be more additions to this series.
August 24, 2025
Of the three novels in the ‘Miss Fleming’ series, the first, ‘Miss Fleming Falls in Love,’ and the third, ‘The Honourable Mr Lucas Kincaid,’ run more or less true to style, the initial antipathy, a growing liking and the final happy ending.
The second novel, 'The Mysterious Mr Oliver,' though, is slightly out of the ordinary. While it cannot tear itself off from the nobility and aristocracy, it is told from a man’s viewpoint, and tries to describe a gentleman working for a living, and his feelings on being snubbed or condescended to, or indeed as a servant. The drawback here is the heroine (the relation of the earl, his employer), whose naivete is so excessive that to an outsider it seems unnatural and a pretence under which her overtures to the gentleman land agent are made. The ending of course is the conventional one, in which the land agent turns out to be something other than he too had pretended to be, and so one might say the hero and heroine were made for each other.
The second novel, 'The Mysterious Mr Oliver,' though, is slightly out of the ordinary. While it cannot tear itself off from the nobility and aristocracy, it is told from a man’s viewpoint, and tries to describe a gentleman working for a living, and his feelings on being snubbed or condescended to, or indeed as a servant. The drawback here is the heroine (the relation of the earl, his employer), whose naivete is so excessive that to an outsider it seems unnatural and a pretence under which her overtures to the gentleman land agent are made. The ending of course is the conventional one, in which the land agent turns out to be something other than he too had pretended to be, and so one might say the hero and heroine were made for each other.
January 23, 2024
Isabelle Fleming is the catch of the season with her beauty, but she really wants someone to notice her for more than just her looks. I think she was relieved when she left London to go to stay with her sister and brother-in-law at their country estate. Life is slower and more interesting as she gets to know the land agent, Mr. Oliver.
While I did like Isabelle and Oliver, I think I enjoyed the side characters just as much, if not more. Isabelle sister, Amelia, is very likable and watches out for sister, while her mother is one who says and does the craziest things! There is also Mrs. Hunt and her daughter who is more than she first seems to be and I hope we see more of her in future stories.
I loved the boxing lessons and seeing Isabel use her new- found skills in the ballroom was very funny and also rewarding. I think this was my favorite part in the story.
While I did like Isabelle and Oliver, I think I enjoyed the side characters just as much, if not more. Isabelle sister, Amelia, is very likable and watches out for sister, while her mother is one who says and does the craziest things! There is also Mrs. Hunt and her daughter who is more than she first seems to be and I hope we see more of her in future stories.
I loved the boxing lessons and seeing Isabel use her new- found skills in the ballroom was very funny and also rewarding. I think this was my favorite part in the story.
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