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A Scandalous Match
‘Angelica had always known her lack of high birth, fortune or influence debarred her from being presented as an eligible young woman worthy of marriage. To cap it all, being an actress assured she was utterly beyond the pale of respectability.'
Nightly at the Covent Garden Theatre in London, an enchanting actress is wowing the crowds with her affecting portrayal of Ophelia. Preyed on by rakes and opportunistic young bucks, feted by dukes and earls, even the Prince Regent himself, Angelica Leigh is a sensation.
But in Regency England, beauty and talent are not enough to be considered marriage material, so when the eminently eligible Lord Charles Latimer sets his heart on Angelica, his uncle is sent to intervene.
As a highly respected, hard-working and wealthy lawmaker, The Honourable Ivor Asprey, is himself seen as desirable husband material, but widowed with an eleven-year-old daughter Elinor, he has forsaken all thoughts of romance. Lord Latimer’s mother, the Duchess of Arlington, despairs of her son, despite being reassured by Ivor that his infatuation with the actress will pass. But there is something about Angelica Leigh that demands attention, and even the austere and upstanding Mr Asprey isn’t immune to her charms.
Nightly at the Covent Garden Theatre in London, an enchanting actress is wowing the crowds with her affecting portrayal of Ophelia. Preyed on by rakes and opportunistic young bucks, feted by dukes and earls, even the Prince Regent himself, Angelica Leigh is a sensation.
But in Regency England, beauty and talent are not enough to be considered marriage material, so when the eminently eligible Lord Charles Latimer sets his heart on Angelica, his uncle is sent to intervene.
As a highly respected, hard-working and wealthy lawmaker, The Honourable Ivor Asprey, is himself seen as desirable husband material, but widowed with an eleven-year-old daughter Elinor, he has forsaken all thoughts of romance. Lord Latimer’s mother, the Duchess of Arlington, despairs of her son, despite being reassured by Ivor that his infatuation with the actress will pass. But there is something about Angelica Leigh that demands attention, and even the austere and upstanding Mr Asprey isn’t immune to her charms.
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Published January 17, 2024
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About the author
Jane Dunn
32 books144 followersJane Dunn is a leading biographer, the author of Moon in Eclipse: A Life of Mary Shelley, A Very Close Conspiracy: Vanessa Bell and Virginia Wolf, and Antonia White: A Life. Elizabeth and Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens was published in the spring of 2003 and spent seven weeks in the top ten of the Sunday Times bestseller list. A fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, Dunn lives near Bath with her husband, the linguist and writer Nicholas Ostler. Her most recent book is Read My Heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
December 14, 2023
I usually like Jane Dunn's regency books, but this one dragged to me. Angelica is a beautiful young actress who has taken London by storm for her portrayal of Ophelia in Hamlet. Lord Charles Latimer, heir to a dukedom, fancies himself in love with Angelica and wants to marry her. Of course this won't do, and Charles' mother sends her brother, Ivor, to discourage the beautiful actress from pursuing his nephew. You know what happens from here. For me, there was too much internal dialog and the romance was flat. Angelica also needed rescuing many, many times; I prefer a heroine who can solve her own problems. And I got tired of hearing about Angelica's hair. This is a quick book with absolutely no sex, and fans of classic regency will probably enjoy A Scandalous Match. Rounding up to a 3-star book. Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC. A Scandalous Match releases Jan. 17.
January 4, 2024
This novel just didn’t do it for me. At first, I thought it was going to be like Georgette Heyer’s delightful novel, Faro’s Daughter, since the plot was very similar. An aristocratic bachelor is asked by his bossy sister to try to pry his nephew away from an unsuitable woman. In this case, the woman was a prominent actress whose mother is the mistress of a rising industrialist. But the book lacked all the wit and humor that Heyer’s books have.
We are told over and over again that the Honorable Ivor Asprey is a rising Whig politician who is sponsoring important reform education on child labor and Catholic Emancipation. So he can’t risk any scandal to his name to preserve his ability to push forward his legislation. Since it’s 1814 and I happen to know that Catholic Emancipation won’t happen until 1829 and the Factory Act won’t be until 1833 [I teach this stuff], I’m not too breathless waiting for Ivor to pass his legislation. In fact, it would have been more realistic if this book were set in the late 1820s.
He meets the actress, Angelica, and immediately feels something for her even though he tries to buy her off to leave his nephew alone. Of course, she has no intention of marrying his nephew, the heir to a dukedom, but she’s still insulted. Then events interfere and he gets to know her better while saving her life, family, and reputation. They’re suddenly in love. Poof! He’s no longer worried about the damage to his reputation. Maybe he knows that his bills are going to take almost another generation to pass.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
We are told over and over again that the Honorable Ivor Asprey is a rising Whig politician who is sponsoring important reform education on child labor and Catholic Emancipation. So he can’t risk any scandal to his name to preserve his ability to push forward his legislation. Since it’s 1814 and I happen to know that Catholic Emancipation won’t happen until 1829 and the Factory Act won’t be until 1833 [I teach this stuff], I’m not too breathless waiting for Ivor to pass his legislation. In fact, it would have been more realistic if this book were set in the late 1820s.
He meets the actress, Angelica, and immediately feels something for her even though he tries to buy her off to leave his nephew alone. Of course, she has no intention of marrying his nephew, the heir to a dukedom, but she’s still insulted. Then events interfere and he gets to know her better while saving her life, family, and reputation. They’re suddenly in love. Poof! He’s no longer worried about the damage to his reputation. Maybe he knows that his bills are going to take almost another generation to pass.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review.
May 7, 2024
I just adored this latest Regency romance novel from Jane Dunn! The prose was elegant and such a pleasure to read. There was a richness to the character-building and relationships in the story that truly pulled me in. By the close of her tale, I felt so well-acquainted with our heroine and loved the romantic conclusion. I've enjoyed reading all of Jane Dunn's Regency romances but this one had an extra special charm to it, so reminiscent of classic novels from the early 19th century.
As a side note, I listened to the audiobook version of this and thought the narrator was just brilliant! She really brought all the characters to life.
As a side note, I listened to the audiobook version of this and thought the narrator was just brilliant! She really brought all the characters to life.
January 22, 2024
Lord Charles Latimer has fallen in love with Angelica Leigh, an actress who has found acclaim portraying Ophelia in a current production of Hamlet, in which she 'drowns' realistically in a river of real water on stage. His mama is scandalised and asks her brother The Honourable Ivor Asprey to intervene and try to buy her off. Ivor is a reforming politician, a widower with a young daughter, he is reluctant to interfere in his nephew's affairs, particularly when Charles will soon be deemed capable of making his own decisions. Nevertheless, he agrees and visits her backstage where he makes a complete hash of the whole thing and only succeeds in antagonising Angelica who honestly had no intention/expectation of marrying Charles in the first place.
Angelica and her mother lived hand-to-mouth for many years until her mother found a kindly protector who set them up in a lovely house in Mayfair and continues to lavish them with gifts and money. Angelica's mother wants her to find a rich husband, but Angelica is more interested in her career as an actress, even if it does leave her open to bawdy comments and invitations to be the mistress of wealthy men. Well-spoken and educated, Angelica knows the reputation actresses have but she is determined to live her own life.
So far, this seemed very similar to the beloved Georgette Heyer novel Faro's Daughter (although in that case the heroine ran a gaming hell). Unfortunately for me that is where the similarities ended. I happily confess that I am not a historian but I find it very hard to believe that a member of the aristocracy would allow his young daughter to associate with an actress, particularly one who had murky parentage. Similarly, given the licentiousness of the theatre audiences of the time, I don't believe an aristocrat would take his young daughter to the theatre. In addition, Angelica befriends the daughter of a nobleman who lost his fortune gambling and then committed suicide, once her inheritance is restored and she is once more an eligible marriage prospect she still consorts with Angelica - something I can't believe her stepmother would ever have countenanced.
Added to the unbelievability of the plot, this just seemed to drag, with side plots involving Angelica's missing father, a romance between Ivor's man of business and his daughter's governess, rehearsals for a new play, a one-dimensional villain, Ivor's political concerns, and his daughter's match-making.
Loved the cover.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Bumped for release and some truly atrocious grammar.
Angelica and her mother lived hand-to-mouth for many years until her mother found a kindly protector who set them up in a lovely house in Mayfair and continues to lavish them with gifts and money. Angelica's mother wants her to find a rich husband, but Angelica is more interested in her career as an actress, even if it does leave her open to bawdy comments and invitations to be the mistress of wealthy men. Well-spoken and educated, Angelica knows the reputation actresses have but she is determined to live her own life.
So far, this seemed very similar to the beloved Georgette Heyer novel Faro's Daughter (although in that case the heroine ran a gaming hell). Unfortunately for me that is where the similarities ended. I happily confess that I am not a historian but I find it very hard to believe that a member of the aristocracy would allow his young daughter to associate with an actress, particularly one who had murky parentage. Similarly, given the licentiousness of the theatre audiences of the time, I don't believe an aristocrat would take his young daughter to the theatre. In addition, Angelica befriends the daughter of a nobleman who lost his fortune gambling and then committed suicide, once her inheritance is restored and she is once more an eligible marriage prospect she still consorts with Angelica - something I can't believe her stepmother would ever have countenanced.
Added to the unbelievability of the plot, this just seemed to drag, with side plots involving Angelica's missing father, a romance between Ivor's man of business and his daughter's governess, rehearsals for a new play, a one-dimensional villain, Ivor's political concerns, and his daughter's match-making.
Loved the cover.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Bumped for release and some truly atrocious grammar.
January 10, 2024
This was my favorite of Jane Dunn's three novels by far. The heroine is charming, the romance plotline was never predictable but turned out exactly as I had hoped. The subtle inclusion of consent was a lovely touch. There were touches of kissing and steam, but nothing outrageous. I loved diving into the world of Regency theatre and all of the wonderfully researched period adventures, but with nods to modern inclusivity and consent movements. Each character was memorable and lovable (if they were meant to be). I am still caught up in the thrill of the ending as I write this review. A near-perfect read.
January 18, 2024
Okay this book has a lot going on there’s an actress named Angelica Lee and one of her admirers is a Lord Charles Latimer. Unlike most of her admirers from the theater he sees her as marriage material as opposed to a mistress he can set up in London for his free time. During her last performance as aphelia what she thought was an innocent cold becomes feverish and it becomes hard for Angelica to breathe this is how she eventually finds herself at Lord Aspry’s estate he is the dower widowed uncle to Charles. Angelica never knew her father but right before her illness when her mom left for France she was going through a book and found a note asking her mom to meet this person and to bring Angel and it said Love P Angelica had no idea who this was but during her illness a man arrives at Lord Asprey‘s house claiming to be her father
And then everyone thought was dead. While staying at the estate she meets Eleanor Aspry The young daughter of her host the Lord and during her stay she will form a relationship with both of them and although she is starting to have feelings for the older Lord he is engaged to another as is she to his nephew. To make matters worse her father is back and another Lord wants to blackmail her to become his mistress or he will have her father arrested there is so much to the story I haven’t even mentioned how Lord Asprey‘s sister and Charles‘s mom cannot stand Angelica and thinks she is far too low on the pecking scale to marry her son. There’s also a ball thrown in Charles the Zana to celebrate his majority where Angelica gets basically called a thief in front of a crowd of other people her feelings for Lord Ashbury only grow what even if he wasn’t engaged she is an actress and he is a Lord. There is so much more to this book and I don’t want to give everything away Jane dunn is so masterful at historical romance. Her accuracy is always on point and she definitely knows how to have you hopping from one page to the next even when it’s over you want more. I love Jane Dunn’s books as historical books are my favorite and she is truly at the top of her class when it comes to historical accuracy and transporting you from current date to the past. If you love an intricately plotted historical romance then you definitely want to read a scandalous match by Jane done any true historical romance fan will not be disappointed. I want to thank boldwoodBooks an Net Galley for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
And then everyone thought was dead. While staying at the estate she meets Eleanor Aspry The young daughter of her host the Lord and during her stay she will form a relationship with both of them and although she is starting to have feelings for the older Lord he is engaged to another as is she to his nephew. To make matters worse her father is back and another Lord wants to blackmail her to become his mistress or he will have her father arrested there is so much to the story I haven’t even mentioned how Lord Asprey‘s sister and Charles‘s mom cannot stand Angelica and thinks she is far too low on the pecking scale to marry her son. There’s also a ball thrown in Charles the Zana to celebrate his majority where Angelica gets basically called a thief in front of a crowd of other people her feelings for Lord Ashbury only grow what even if he wasn’t engaged she is an actress and he is a Lord. There is so much more to this book and I don’t want to give everything away Jane dunn is so masterful at historical romance. Her accuracy is always on point and she definitely knows how to have you hopping from one page to the next even when it’s over you want more. I love Jane Dunn’s books as historical books are my favorite and she is truly at the top of her class when it comes to historical accuracy and transporting you from current date to the past. If you love an intricately plotted historical romance then you definitely want to read a scandalous match by Jane done any true historical romance fan will not be disappointed. I want to thank boldwoodBooks an Net Galley for my free arc copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
January 19, 2024
A glorious dive into the world of theatre in Regency London and what happens when the paths of performers and aristocracy meet.
Any fans of Bridgerton will remember the character of Sienna, the opera singer and paramour of Anthony whose social standing means she can only ever be his mistress and never anyone he can acknowledge in public, despite the fact he believes he loves her. Jane Dunn’s latest novel explores a similar theme with her heroine, Angelica, and actress of dubious birth who is being courted by the heir to a dukedom, much to his mother’s horror. So appalled is she at the prospect of this base thespian becoming her daughter-in-law that she asks her brother, a widowed and respectable MP to intercede and prevent the marriage. As to what happens next, well, you’ll have to read the book to find out.
Just like previous books by this author, her writing immediately transported me to London in the early 1800’s and the world of the haut ton and the trick rules and etiquette that surrounds society. Everyone has their place and woe betide anyone who tries to step outside of their preordained role, particularly women. In this case, it was particularly fascinating to explore behind the scenes at the theatre and immerse myself in that world, front and back.
I loved the character of Angelica, she was very likeable and it was easy to put myself into her shoes and imagine what life must have been like for a woman in her precarious position in society. The constant strain and worry about securing a future for herself and her family, the constant threat of people who wanted to take advantage of her vulnerability and looking for people to protect her from that. The having to face down the disdain of people whose only claim is to advantage of birth and nothing more. What a frustrating and stressful situation to live in, it makes you desperate for her to succeed.
The male characters are equally interesting, and have their own worries, stresses and pressures to deal with. Family expectation, social standing to maintain, dependents to support. It may look like the men have life much easier but, if they are good men, life isn’t that straight forward and this is reflected in the two members of the aristocracy who are the subject of this book. There are good men and bad men explored here in a true reflection of society as it is, and a stark reminder that, just because people believe themselves to be above others due to their wealth and rank, it is behaviour and the way we treat others which really makes people worthy or not.
I thoroughly enjoyed Jane’s latest Regency outing, I thought it was a fascinating story, rich with a sense of time and place and alive with the colours and sights of the period. The characters were engaging and sympathetic and the writing really carried me through the story. Highly recommended for Regency fans.
Any fans of Bridgerton will remember the character of Sienna, the opera singer and paramour of Anthony whose social standing means she can only ever be his mistress and never anyone he can acknowledge in public, despite the fact he believes he loves her. Jane Dunn’s latest novel explores a similar theme with her heroine, Angelica, and actress of dubious birth who is being courted by the heir to a dukedom, much to his mother’s horror. So appalled is she at the prospect of this base thespian becoming her daughter-in-law that she asks her brother, a widowed and respectable MP to intercede and prevent the marriage. As to what happens next, well, you’ll have to read the book to find out.
Just like previous books by this author, her writing immediately transported me to London in the early 1800’s and the world of the haut ton and the trick rules and etiquette that surrounds society. Everyone has their place and woe betide anyone who tries to step outside of their preordained role, particularly women. In this case, it was particularly fascinating to explore behind the scenes at the theatre and immerse myself in that world, front and back.
I loved the character of Angelica, she was very likeable and it was easy to put myself into her shoes and imagine what life must have been like for a woman in her precarious position in society. The constant strain and worry about securing a future for herself and her family, the constant threat of people who wanted to take advantage of her vulnerability and looking for people to protect her from that. The having to face down the disdain of people whose only claim is to advantage of birth and nothing more. What a frustrating and stressful situation to live in, it makes you desperate for her to succeed.
The male characters are equally interesting, and have their own worries, stresses and pressures to deal with. Family expectation, social standing to maintain, dependents to support. It may look like the men have life much easier but, if they are good men, life isn’t that straight forward and this is reflected in the two members of the aristocracy who are the subject of this book. There are good men and bad men explored here in a true reflection of society as it is, and a stark reminder that, just because people believe themselves to be above others due to their wealth and rank, it is behaviour and the way we treat others which really makes people worthy or not.
I thoroughly enjoyed Jane’s latest Regency outing, I thought it was a fascinating story, rich with a sense of time and place and alive with the colours and sights of the period. The characters were engaging and sympathetic and the writing really carried me through the story. Highly recommended for Regency fans.
April 1, 2024
I really enjoyed Jane’s style of writing. Eloquent and timely. The fashion is A++. Each little detail flowed nicely into the overall love story of Angelica and Ivor. Characters beautifully chosen, but I do wish Ivor’s development was explored more in the second half. It started as a story about them both, and ended with Angelica mostly. Also, I really thought the scandal was going to go deeper than just marrying lower class. With another man from the family involved — was odd that it all just worked out in the end because he fell in love someone else. Could have been faster pace but overall a unique read.
February 25, 2024
4 1/2*STAR
Ivor Asprey may be a mister, but he is a highly respected, wealthy lawmaker. A widower of six years, he has a lovely young daughter who loves to play matchmaker. Angelica Leigh is an actress, considered a very beautiful woman. Admired by Ivor's nephew, heir to a dukedom, Ivor is "persuaded" to nip this romance in the bud. It may be a slow burn, but the stuff shirt lawmaker and the beautiful trusting actress find a bond when he continues to come to her rescue. A lovely clean romance with kissing only.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley.
Ivor Asprey may be a mister, but he is a highly respected, wealthy lawmaker. A widower of six years, he has a lovely young daughter who loves to play matchmaker. Angelica Leigh is an actress, considered a very beautiful woman. Admired by Ivor's nephew, heir to a dukedom, Ivor is "persuaded" to nip this romance in the bud. It may be a slow burn, but the stuff shirt lawmaker and the beautiful trusting actress find a bond when he continues to come to her rescue. A lovely clean romance with kissing only.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley.
April 8, 2025
Marrying out of your class weakened the very structure of society
Animal spirits?
Hog grubber :)
Amabel Leigh - same first name as one of my former students
Love the 19th century slang & vocab
Good regency romance between an actress of high standing and a reforming parliamentarian
Animal spirits?
Hog grubber :)
Amabel Leigh - same first name as one of my former students
Love the 19th century slang & vocab
Good regency romance between an actress of high standing and a reforming parliamentarian
October 17, 2025
There was nothing wrong with this book but it fell a bit flat for me. It seems the author prizes historical accuracy over entertainment, and I can't really knock her for that, but the whole thing felt antiquated and unremarkable.
March 11, 2024
Very slow and predictable. Tale of a beautiful, young damsel in distress actress that brings enough of her problems to an older, handsome politician until he decides he is in love with her. Her beauty might as well be a main character in this novel because its the reason for both the good and the bad in her life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 16, 2023
A gorgeous hist-rom tale perfect for Regency Era and Georgette Heyer fans. I couldn't put it down!
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC.
Opinions are mine.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC.
Opinions are mine.
June 1, 2024
DNF 34% I just couldn’t keep reading this it’s so boring.
January 24, 2024
It’s March 1814. In London, we meet Ivor Asprey, a 34-year-old Whig party MP for Abingdon. He is highly respected and wealthy. Following the death of his wife, he is a single father to daughter Elinor (11), who is looked after by her straight-forward, no nonsense governess Miss Stafford.
Ivor’s sister – Edwina, Duchess of Arlington – comes to him with a concern. Her son and heir – Lord Charles Latimer – is in love with Angelica Leigh, an actress, currently playing Ophelia in Hamlet at the Covent Garden Theatre. The Duchess is appalled that her son should want to be with an actress and urges Ivor to intervene and stop the relationship.
Meanwhile, we meet Angelica. Her and her mother Amabel come from poverty, but thanks to a benefactor, they now live well. Angelica has a maid called Mary and they are both strong and resourceful young women. Just as well, as with Angelica being so beautiful, she constantly has to rebuke the affections of various men.
A Scandalous Match tells the story of these characters and I loved them all (well, except for the bad guys!), including Angelica’s friend Isobel Fitzjames. I had a particular soft spot for young Elinor, who is as bright as a button and desperate for attention from her busy father. There are some fantastic minor characters too. I especially loved Charles’s poet friend Dante Locke and Angelica’s butler Martin, the retired actor.
Despite being a wonderful story, the novel is full of themes of class, status and wealth. There is such a depth to it. Jane Dunn’s historical knowledge shines through and her words are very evocative, with brilliant descriptions of London at that time. I was shocked at the behaviour of the theatregoers then. If I’d have been an actress on the stage, I’d have been telling the audience to shut up and listen to the play!
I felt I learned a lot from the book (always a good thing!) including a lot of new words (Kindle is great for that!), especially for the fashions of the day (such as spencer, tippet and pelisse) and the insults and terms used to describe someone’s characteristics (including marplot, prosy, a spoony drunk and sobersides).
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book. It’s beautifully written, the characters shine out from the pages and the story is well-paced and compelling.
Ivor’s sister – Edwina, Duchess of Arlington – comes to him with a concern. Her son and heir – Lord Charles Latimer – is in love with Angelica Leigh, an actress, currently playing Ophelia in Hamlet at the Covent Garden Theatre. The Duchess is appalled that her son should want to be with an actress and urges Ivor to intervene and stop the relationship.
Meanwhile, we meet Angelica. Her and her mother Amabel come from poverty, but thanks to a benefactor, they now live well. Angelica has a maid called Mary and they are both strong and resourceful young women. Just as well, as with Angelica being so beautiful, she constantly has to rebuke the affections of various men.
A Scandalous Match tells the story of these characters and I loved them all (well, except for the bad guys!), including Angelica’s friend Isobel Fitzjames. I had a particular soft spot for young Elinor, who is as bright as a button and desperate for attention from her busy father. There are some fantastic minor characters too. I especially loved Charles’s poet friend Dante Locke and Angelica’s butler Martin, the retired actor.
Despite being a wonderful story, the novel is full of themes of class, status and wealth. There is such a depth to it. Jane Dunn’s historical knowledge shines through and her words are very evocative, with brilliant descriptions of London at that time. I was shocked at the behaviour of the theatregoers then. If I’d have been an actress on the stage, I’d have been telling the audience to shut up and listen to the play!
I felt I learned a lot from the book (always a good thing!) including a lot of new words (Kindle is great for that!), especially for the fashions of the day (such as spencer, tippet and pelisse) and the insults and terms used to describe someone’s characteristics (including marplot, prosy, a spoony drunk and sobersides).
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book. It’s beautifully written, the characters shine out from the pages and the story is well-paced and compelling.
January 27, 2024
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Regency romance aficionados have got an excellent treat in store for them thanks to the latest novel by Jane Dunn: A Scandalous Match.
Angelica Leigh is a sensation on the London stage. Every night she performs at the Covent Garden Theatre and is feted and celebrated by dukes and earls and even the Prince Regent himself. Angelica has men throwing themselves at her feet wherever she goes, however, she is well aware of the fact that although every single man in the aristocracy wants to seduce her, they would never consider herself as a suitable bride – until Lord Charles Latimer – one of the most eligible bachelors in the Ton – sets his sights on her!
The Honourable Ivor Asprey enjoys the respect and esteem of everyone in society. The lawmaker might also be considered to be marriage material, however, the widowed single father has put paid to any thoughts of romance as it is his eleven year old daughter Elinor’s well-being that is uppermost in his mind. When Lord Latimer’s mother, the Duchess of Arlington, hears of her son’s determination to wed an actress, she asks for Ivor’s help. Well aware of young men’s frequent infatuations with actresses, Ivor assures her that Charles will soon lose interest in Angelica. However, when Ivor finds himself in the company of the renowned Miss Leigh, he is surprised when he realises that even he isn’t immune to her charms…
A man as steadfast, honourable and upstanding as The Honourable Ivor Asprey couldn’t possibly fall for an actress…could he?
With A Scandalous Match, Jane Dunn continues to cement her position as one of the most gifted and talented writers of Regency romances writing today. As always, Jane Dunn’s attention to detail, her impeccable grasp of the mores of the 19th century and gift for characterization are second to none. Readers will be completely enchanted by A Scandalous Match and by Angelica and Ivor’s love story that sparkles with wit, flair, humour and charm.
A splendidly romantic Regency tale from Jane Dunn’s superb pen, A Scandalous Match is pure magic from start to finish.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Regency romance aficionados have got an excellent treat in store for them thanks to the latest novel by Jane Dunn: A Scandalous Match.
Angelica Leigh is a sensation on the London stage. Every night she performs at the Covent Garden Theatre and is feted and celebrated by dukes and earls and even the Prince Regent himself. Angelica has men throwing themselves at her feet wherever she goes, however, she is well aware of the fact that although every single man in the aristocracy wants to seduce her, they would never consider herself as a suitable bride – until Lord Charles Latimer – one of the most eligible bachelors in the Ton – sets his sights on her!
The Honourable Ivor Asprey enjoys the respect and esteem of everyone in society. The lawmaker might also be considered to be marriage material, however, the widowed single father has put paid to any thoughts of romance as it is his eleven year old daughter Elinor’s well-being that is uppermost in his mind. When Lord Latimer’s mother, the Duchess of Arlington, hears of her son’s determination to wed an actress, she asks for Ivor’s help. Well aware of young men’s frequent infatuations with actresses, Ivor assures her that Charles will soon lose interest in Angelica. However, when Ivor finds himself in the company of the renowned Miss Leigh, he is surprised when he realises that even he isn’t immune to her charms…
A man as steadfast, honourable and upstanding as The Honourable Ivor Asprey couldn’t possibly fall for an actress…could he?
With A Scandalous Match, Jane Dunn continues to cement her position as one of the most gifted and talented writers of Regency romances writing today. As always, Jane Dunn’s attention to detail, her impeccable grasp of the mores of the 19th century and gift for characterization are second to none. Readers will be completely enchanted by A Scandalous Match and by Angelica and Ivor’s love story that sparkles with wit, flair, humour and charm.
A splendidly romantic Regency tale from Jane Dunn’s superb pen, A Scandalous Match is pure magic from start to finish.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 26, 2024
Angelica Leigh is an actress that plays an amazing Ophelia in Hamlet. She is gorgeous, but not of noble birth. There are many men interested in her, but most want her for a mistress, all but one. Lord Charles Latimer is in love and wants to marry Angelica. His mother, The Duchess of Arlington sends her brother, Lord Ivor Aspry to convince Charles that she is not for him. The widowed Lord Aspry doesn't want to get involved, he has enough going on with his work trying to get reforms passed in the government as well as raise his young daughter Eleanor. At the end of each performance, Ophelia drowns and to make it realistic, Angelica is in a tank of water. Taking seriously ill with a lung infection, Charles goes to his uncle to allow her to convalesce at his estate to keep her safe from a doctor who just wants to bleed her. While there she recovers and develops an unlikely friendship with Eleanor. Of course, feelings develop between Angelica and Ivor, but will it go anywhere?
This was another enjoyable Regency Romance by Jane Dunn. I thought that Angelica was a very realistic character and although I prefer women who can take care of themselves, it seemed more realistic to have her taken advantage of men and needing to be rescued. She is a smart young woman, but there were limitations during this time in history. Lord Ivor Asprey is a respectable and honorable man who finds himself in a spot where he has to defend Angelica, but at what cost. Eleanor was a lovely young woman. She wanted a mother figure in her life and she really liked Angelica. There are a couple of other plot points in this story such as a friend who is penniless, but is trying to get her inheritance back, a dirty nobleman who wants to use Angelica for his own purposes and blackmails her and a question of her parentage that all add to the story. I really enjoyed this one, and of the three I just read, I think I liked this one the best, although there are mixed reviews. I did a read/listen and enjoyed the narration by Jenny Funnell. She does a wonderful job with this story, giving voice to the characters and with great tone and expression.
This was another enjoyable Regency Romance by Jane Dunn. I thought that Angelica was a very realistic character and although I prefer women who can take care of themselves, it seemed more realistic to have her taken advantage of men and needing to be rescued. She is a smart young woman, but there were limitations during this time in history. Lord Ivor Asprey is a respectable and honorable man who finds himself in a spot where he has to defend Angelica, but at what cost. Eleanor was a lovely young woman. She wanted a mother figure in her life and she really liked Angelica. There are a couple of other plot points in this story such as a friend who is penniless, but is trying to get her inheritance back, a dirty nobleman who wants to use Angelica for his own purposes and blackmails her and a question of her parentage that all add to the story. I really enjoyed this one, and of the three I just read, I think I liked this one the best, although there are mixed reviews. I did a read/listen and enjoyed the narration by Jenny Funnell. She does a wonderful job with this story, giving voice to the characters and with great tone and expression.
January 20, 2024
A Scandalous Match by Jane Dunn is an endearing tale of a young, but past the first bloom, man who falls in love with the woman with whom his nephew is in hopes to marry. She is an actress and beyond engaging as she dies as Ophelia in Hamlet. She recognizes strength in him and asks for assistance, several times. He always give it, but discreetly. He is a member of parliament and known for having outgrown his youthful ways. His wife died five years earlier and the only joy left in his life is his daughter, Elinor, who has been raised by her governess, Miss Stafford. Ivor Asprey has an older sister who is a duchess and very opinionated, and a possible fiancee, who is also very opinionated and conservative. Elinor doesn’t really care for either of them, so avoids them when she is able. Charles, the nephew, is head-over-heals for Angelica Leigh, and innocent and beautiful young whom, who sadly is an actress and so, below the notice of Charles’ mother, It is a detailed story of the trials and tribulations of these folks and more.
Ivor has lost the person who made his life bright and has taken on the mantle of a reformer in parliament. He is well-born, conservative, and well, boring. He finds himself unable to refuse any of the tasks Angelicas lays before him. Interestingly they are usually all about another, not herself. A rake and reprobate discovers some of this and threatens to ruin Ivor if Angelica refuses to become his mistress. In direct opposition to what normally happens in a book, Angelica goes to Ivor, once again. And once again he solves it by calling the man out. Angelica cannot allow Ivor to be killed and so arranges the Bow Street Runners to appear and stop the madness. This does not endear her to Ivor, who considered it dishonorable. There is this and so much more in this rather excellent book. Thanks Ms. Dunn
I was invited to read A Scandalous Match by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #JaneDunn #AScandalousMatch
Ivor has lost the person who made his life bright and has taken on the mantle of a reformer in parliament. He is well-born, conservative, and well, boring. He finds himself unable to refuse any of the tasks Angelicas lays before him. Interestingly they are usually all about another, not herself. A rake and reprobate discovers some of this and threatens to ruin Ivor if Angelica refuses to become his mistress. In direct opposition to what normally happens in a book, Angelica goes to Ivor, once again. And once again he solves it by calling the man out. Angelica cannot allow Ivor to be killed and so arranges the Bow Street Runners to appear and stop the madness. This does not endear her to Ivor, who considered it dishonorable. There is this and so much more in this rather excellent book. Thanks Ms. Dunn
I was invited to read A Scandalous Match by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #JaneDunn #AScandalousMatch
January 18, 2024
***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
Angelica Leigh is causing quite the stir at the Covent Garden Theatre in London, where the enchanting young actress wows the crowds nightly with her captivating portrayal of Ophelia. Despite her abundance of talent and beauty, she is not considered marriage material among the more respectable set in Regency, England. Despite this, she has caught the eye of one Lord Charles Latimer, much to the dismay of his mother, and he is determined to ask for her hand in marriage. His mother, equally determined to put an end to this, dispatches her brother, The Honorable Ivor Asprey, to intervene. Mr. Asprey, a widower with an eleven-year-old daughter, may have planned to spend the rest of his life forsaking all romance, but there is something about Angelica Leigh that just gets under his skin....
This is the third Regency, England book, and I am hard pressed to pick a favorite. They are all so much fun to read. If you are a Bridgerton fan like myself, and feel that it has been entirely too long since a new season aired, then this will help to sate your need in the meantime. These are very much like a Bridgerton season (minus Lady Whistledown of course). I loved Angelica. She was an actress, not necessarily because she wanted to be but more because they needed the money and that was something she was good at. She didn't care for a lot of the Lords and Dukes, and was not a social climber like her mother was. She was kind to everyone, and took up a lot of time with Mr. Asprey's daughter. I didn't care for him at all at first, but as the story evolved, so did he. If you are a fan of Regency romances, romances in general, Bridgerton, or anything in the Regency England period then you should definitely check this out!
Angelica Leigh is causing quite the stir at the Covent Garden Theatre in London, where the enchanting young actress wows the crowds nightly with her captivating portrayal of Ophelia. Despite her abundance of talent and beauty, she is not considered marriage material among the more respectable set in Regency, England. Despite this, she has caught the eye of one Lord Charles Latimer, much to the dismay of his mother, and he is determined to ask for her hand in marriage. His mother, equally determined to put an end to this, dispatches her brother, The Honorable Ivor Asprey, to intervene. Mr. Asprey, a widower with an eleven-year-old daughter, may have planned to spend the rest of his life forsaking all romance, but there is something about Angelica Leigh that just gets under his skin....
This is the third Regency, England book, and I am hard pressed to pick a favorite. They are all so much fun to read. If you are a Bridgerton fan like myself, and feel that it has been entirely too long since a new season aired, then this will help to sate your need in the meantime. These are very much like a Bridgerton season (minus Lady Whistledown of course). I loved Angelica. She was an actress, not necessarily because she wanted to be but more because they needed the money and that was something she was good at. She didn't care for a lot of the Lords and Dukes, and was not a social climber like her mother was. She was kind to everyone, and took up a lot of time with Mr. Asprey's daughter. I didn't care for him at all at first, but as the story evolved, so did he. If you are a fan of Regency romances, romances in general, Bridgerton, or anything in the Regency England period then you should definitely check this out!
January 16, 2024
Jane Dunn's "A Scandalous Match" takes us on a mesmerizing journey through Regency England, where societal norms clash with the allure of the Covent Garden Theatre. With a solid 4 stars, this historical romance unfolds with elegance and unexpected affairs of the heart.
Angelica Leigh, the enchanting actress, graces the stage as Ophelia, captivating audiences and attracting the attention of rakes, dukes, and even the Prince Regent himself. However, her lack of high birth and the stigma attached to being an actress render her ineligible for marriage, creating a captivating backdrop of societal challenges.
Enter Lord Charles Latimer, an eligible suitor who sets his heart on Angelica. The Honourable Ivor Asprey, a respected lawmaker and desirable husband material, is sent to intervene. A widower with an eleven-year-old daughter, Ivor has forsaken thoughts of romance, but there's something about Angelica that even he can't resist.
Dunn beautifully weaves a tale that explores love, societal expectations, and the complexities of relationships. Angelica's character, bold and resilient, challenges the constraints of her time, making her a captivating protagonist. The dynamics between Angelica, Lord Latimer, and Mr. Asprey are laced with tension and charm.
The Covent Garden Theatre setting adds a theatrical flair to the narrative, enhancing the overall charm of the story. Dunn navigates the intricacies of love and class, providing readers with a compelling historical romance that transcends societal expectations.
"A Scandalous Match" is a spellbinding read, where the heart's desires clash with societal norms. If you crave a journey through Regency elegance, theatrical allure, and affairs of the heart, this book is a must-read!
Angelica Leigh, the enchanting actress, graces the stage as Ophelia, captivating audiences and attracting the attention of rakes, dukes, and even the Prince Regent himself. However, her lack of high birth and the stigma attached to being an actress render her ineligible for marriage, creating a captivating backdrop of societal challenges.
Enter Lord Charles Latimer, an eligible suitor who sets his heart on Angelica. The Honourable Ivor Asprey, a respected lawmaker and desirable husband material, is sent to intervene. A widower with an eleven-year-old daughter, Ivor has forsaken thoughts of romance, but there's something about Angelica that even he can't resist.
Dunn beautifully weaves a tale that explores love, societal expectations, and the complexities of relationships. Angelica's character, bold and resilient, challenges the constraints of her time, making her a captivating protagonist. The dynamics between Angelica, Lord Latimer, and Mr. Asprey are laced with tension and charm.
The Covent Garden Theatre setting adds a theatrical flair to the narrative, enhancing the overall charm of the story. Dunn navigates the intricacies of love and class, providing readers with a compelling historical romance that transcends societal expectations.
"A Scandalous Match" is a spellbinding read, where the heart's desires clash with societal norms. If you crave a journey through Regency elegance, theatrical allure, and affairs of the heart, this book is a must-read!
January 17, 2024
"A Scandalous Match" is a beautifully-written, captivating, and very fun historical romance from author Jane Dunn! The Regency-era setting was very well-researched and the author has yet again done amazing work creating three-dimensional characters who feel like real people along with personalities, thoughts, emotions, and personal and emotional difficulties of their own. Angelica and Ivor are such lovable characters! Ivor is kind, brave, and dashing. Angelica is vivacious, kind, and beautiful. And of course, Elinor! She is so sweet. I loved seeing the close friendship between her and Angelica. I also enjoyed getting to know all of the supporting characters. Another thing I love about this book are the details that help the reader to clearly envision the locations, characters, clothing, and what is happening. This helps the reader to feel as if they are really there following these characters and their story. Throughout the book I felt invested in these characters and connected to them! There was never a dull moment. And that event that took place towards the end of the book! I was in such suspense. This has everything you could possibly want in a Regency-era romance: the speed of the plot is perfect, the author's writing style is smooth and sparkling with beauty, wit, and heart, the characters are three-dimensional and lovable, the story original and fun, and the romance is sweet and swoony along with lots of emotional depth! "A Scandalous Match" is definitely a must read. I cannot recommend this book highly enough! 5 very well deserved stars. Thank you very much to the author Jane Dunn, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
January 19, 2024
Once again this talented author has taken me by the hand and led me into Georgian London, sharing the life of actress Angelica Leigh as she mesmerises audiences with her portrayal of Ophelia in Shakespeare's Hamlet. To be an actress during the early years of the nineteenth century was viewed as little more than prostitution, however, Angelica's sweet nature and exceptional beauty has attracted the attention of the eligible Charles Latimer, a young member of the haut ton who, much to the chagrin of his formidable mama, is hell bent on marriage with the delightful Angelica. The Honourable Ivor Asprey is persuaded by Charles's mother to try to dissuade Angelica from accepting his nephew as a suitor and in doing so widowed Asprey changes his own life forever.
A Scandalous Match is a delightful historical romance which looks at the vagaries of society in Georgian England and how a woman, so often seen merely as a decorative appendage, could be feisty, funny and determined, like Angelica, to go her own way. I loved Angelica from the start, her acting skill brings a different dynamic and I enjoyed observing the raucousness of the theatre audiences, from cat calls, to throwing bread buns around the auditorium, there was never a dull moment. The romantic element is nicely done and there's a smattering of politics concerning the reform of child labour however, what really shines through is the emotional involvement with all of the characters, which is done with such a fine eye for detail, so that it becomes an absolute pleasure to sit down and escape for a few hours into this Regency world which Jane Dunn recreates so beautifully.
January 25, 2024
A new author for me, A Scandalous Match by Jane Dunn was an interesting read. It depicts Angelica an actress who is much in demand and sought after by every rich man to be his mistress. Angelica is not keen to go down the usual route of many an actress at the time. Her mother and she led an exceedingly difficult life with she was young, until a kindly protector took her mother under his wing and purchased a home for them in Mayfair and set them up.
Angelica is an educated young woman, despite her humble beginnings and is determined to ignore her mother's advice to find a rich husband and instead wants to dedicate herself to her craft as an actress. Her acting is so good that young Lord Charles Latimer is determined to marry her as he fancies himself in love with her. His mother, the duchess of Arlington is scandalised and determined to pay the woman off and get her out of her son's life. She persuades her brother, Ivor Asprey, a highly respected, law maker to intervene and do the right thing by the family. However, when Ivor meets Angelica and tries to pay her off, she is offended and tells him directly that she has no intention of marrying Charles.
After their initial meeting, Angelica calls upon Ivor quite a few times to assist with various issues that do not affect her directly. Ivor is a widower with a young daughter, Elinor and following his introduction of his daughter to Angelica, they form a bond.
As the relationship develops, Ivor and Angelica grow closer, which scandalises proper society given Angelica's background.
A lovely read that I enjoyed. I received an ARC from #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks and submit my honest review.
Angelica is an educated young woman, despite her humble beginnings and is determined to ignore her mother's advice to find a rich husband and instead wants to dedicate herself to her craft as an actress. Her acting is so good that young Lord Charles Latimer is determined to marry her as he fancies himself in love with her. His mother, the duchess of Arlington is scandalised and determined to pay the woman off and get her out of her son's life. She persuades her brother, Ivor Asprey, a highly respected, law maker to intervene and do the right thing by the family. However, when Ivor meets Angelica and tries to pay her off, she is offended and tells him directly that she has no intention of marrying Charles.
After their initial meeting, Angelica calls upon Ivor quite a few times to assist with various issues that do not affect her directly. Ivor is a widower with a young daughter, Elinor and following his introduction of his daughter to Angelica, they form a bond.
As the relationship develops, Ivor and Angelica grow closer, which scandalises proper society given Angelica's background.
A lovely read that I enjoyed. I received an ARC from #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks and submit my honest review.
January 20, 2024
A beautiful story, impossible to put down. A Scandalous Match blends the social and political history of Regency England with a riveting and thought-provoking romance between a member of parliament and an actress.
There are plenty of characters in this book who delight and entertain. I couldn't help but adore Lord Latimer and Mr Locke as they both appeared very genuine in their friendship and admiration for Angelica.
The theatre scenes were riotous and I could almost hear and feel the responses of the audience to Angelia's portrayal of Ophelia's death.
The slow burn enemies to friendship to lovers romance between Angelica and Ivor Asprey was fun to watch and a very charming read. Despite his protests to her suitability for his nephew he couldn't help but come to her aid whenever she was in trouble. He is kind and has a social conscience. Child labour reform is at the heart of his parliamentary endeavours and he is careful with his reputation to prevent opposition from latching on to anything scandalous that might derail his efforts. He didn't anticipate an emotional attachment to Angelica to put a spanner in the works.
There is a nice amount of humour in the story as Ivor's daughter, Elinor also develops a fondness for Angelica and is determined to play matchmaker. She is a lovely and endearing child and I couldn't help but want this trio to become a little family.
I enjoyed every minute of this book. It has depth, emotional charge, suspense and drama in addition to being a sparkling romance.
There are plenty of characters in this book who delight and entertain. I couldn't help but adore Lord Latimer and Mr Locke as they both appeared very genuine in their friendship and admiration for Angelica.
The theatre scenes were riotous and I could almost hear and feel the responses of the audience to Angelia's portrayal of Ophelia's death.
The slow burn enemies to friendship to lovers romance between Angelica and Ivor Asprey was fun to watch and a very charming read. Despite his protests to her suitability for his nephew he couldn't help but come to her aid whenever she was in trouble. He is kind and has a social conscience. Child labour reform is at the heart of his parliamentary endeavours and he is careful with his reputation to prevent opposition from latching on to anything scandalous that might derail his efforts. He didn't anticipate an emotional attachment to Angelica to put a spanner in the works.
There is a nice amount of humour in the story as Ivor's daughter, Elinor also develops a fondness for Angelica and is determined to play matchmaker. She is a lovely and endearing child and I couldn't help but want this trio to become a little family.
I enjoyed every minute of this book. It has depth, emotional charge, suspense and drama in addition to being a sparkling romance.
January 18, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC
I was eager to read this book, as I really enjoyed The Marriage Season by the same author.
Angelica is an actress (we don't ever really find out how she got so famous so young). Her mother is the adored mistress of a rich merchant so Angelica got a good education, but she and her mother lived in poverty for quite a while. Because she's an actress she's being harassed by the rake Rackham. There's also a lordling who thinks he's in love with her, whose uncle, Ivor, is pressed to intervene and try to bribe her to stop seeing him. Ivor has a daughter whom Angelica befriends (this seems unrealistic to me). Angelica's long-lost father shows up and further complicates her life. She makes friends with a girl who's part of the ton, which also seems unrealistic to me.
I have to commend the author for coming up with a plot with so many twists and turns, and fitting all of these characters into it. I'm not looking for 100% historical accuracy when I read a 'regency', but there were just so many relationships in this book that seemed unlikely to me, and the ending seemed a bit too 'modern' after all the protestations during the course of the book.
I'm rating this 3.5; I like it well enough, but there were just too many things that seemed contrived to me.
Recommend for fans of regency romance.
I was eager to read this book, as I really enjoyed The Marriage Season by the same author.
Angelica is an actress (we don't ever really find out how she got so famous so young). Her mother is the adored mistress of a rich merchant so Angelica got a good education, but she and her mother lived in poverty for quite a while. Because she's an actress she's being harassed by the rake Rackham. There's also a lordling who thinks he's in love with her, whose uncle, Ivor, is pressed to intervene and try to bribe her to stop seeing him. Ivor has a daughter whom Angelica befriends (this seems unrealistic to me). Angelica's long-lost father shows up and further complicates her life. She makes friends with a girl who's part of the ton, which also seems unrealistic to me.
I have to commend the author for coming up with a plot with so many twists and turns, and fitting all of these characters into it. I'm not looking for 100% historical accuracy when I read a 'regency', but there were just so many relationships in this book that seemed unlikely to me, and the ending seemed a bit too 'modern' after all the protestations during the course of the book.
I'm rating this 3.5; I like it well enough, but there were just too many things that seemed contrived to me.
Recommend for fans of regency romance.
January 19, 2024
A Scandalous Match returns us to Jane Dunn's wonderful reimagining of Regency England. Our heroine this time is Angelica, our hero Ivor. Both of them are very different characters. The chemistry between them takes some time to develop, but when it does, it is quite explosive.
A Scandalous Match contains all the elements of a Regency romance we would expect, including the stubborn heroine and equally stubborn hero, their failure to speak plainly, and the reach of society that endeavours to keep them apart. But, as with Jane's previous books, there is the fascinating element of 'other' in there as well. The servants aren't faceless and nameless. The conventions of the times are laid bare, and the peripheral characters also 'buck' against the trends we might expect. It all adds a delicious quantity to the books, which I adore, from the 'cant' of the servants to the slightly risqué relationship of Angelica's mother and her 'keeper.' I also adore how the obsession with horses is constantly explored, just as in today's day and age, we might brag about our high-end cars.
Another thrilling and enthralling read. Readers of Regency Romance, and romance in general, will delight in travelling to Jane's Regency England.
A Scandalous Match contains all the elements of a Regency romance we would expect, including the stubborn heroine and equally stubborn hero, their failure to speak plainly, and the reach of society that endeavours to keep them apart. But, as with Jane's previous books, there is the fascinating element of 'other' in there as well. The servants aren't faceless and nameless. The conventions of the times are laid bare, and the peripheral characters also 'buck' against the trends we might expect. It all adds a delicious quantity to the books, which I adore, from the 'cant' of the servants to the slightly risqué relationship of Angelica's mother and her 'keeper.' I also adore how the obsession with horses is constantly explored, just as in today's day and age, we might brag about our high-end cars.
Another thrilling and enthralling read. Readers of Regency Romance, and romance in general, will delight in travelling to Jane's Regency England.
January 12, 2024
1814
Ivor Asprey, 34, is a wealthy and well-respected lawmaker. He is also a widower with a young daughter, Eliner, 11. After a busy day in Parliament, he arrives home to find his sister, Edwina, the Duchess of Arlington, at his home. She says that her son, Lord Charles Latimer, wants to marry an actress. She is Angelica Leigh, who plays the role of Ophelia at the Covent Garden Theater. Edwina wants Ivor to offer this woman money to rebuff her son.
As Ivor meets Angelica, he finds her to be a nice person who says she is not after marrying Lord Charles but that they are just friends. As we follow Angelica and her friendship with Charles, we also see others who would like to do her harm or at least bring her down in life.
I liked this book and the characters. My only complaint is the overabundance of Shakespeare references and dialogue. I have never cared for Shakespeare so this became tedious for me at times. However, I must commend the author for her obvious great knowledge of these plays. So, if you love Shakespeare, this book is for you.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Ivor Asprey, 34, is a wealthy and well-respected lawmaker. He is also a widower with a young daughter, Eliner, 11. After a busy day in Parliament, he arrives home to find his sister, Edwina, the Duchess of Arlington, at his home. She says that her son, Lord Charles Latimer, wants to marry an actress. She is Angelica Leigh, who plays the role of Ophelia at the Covent Garden Theater. Edwina wants Ivor to offer this woman money to rebuff her son.
As Ivor meets Angelica, he finds her to be a nice person who says she is not after marrying Lord Charles but that they are just friends. As we follow Angelica and her friendship with Charles, we also see others who would like to do her harm or at least bring her down in life.
I liked this book and the characters. My only complaint is the overabundance of Shakespeare references and dialogue. I have never cared for Shakespeare so this became tedious for me at times. However, I must commend the author for her obvious great knowledge of these plays. So, if you love Shakespeare, this book is for you.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
February 28, 2024
This historical romance by Jane Dunn is set in the Regency period in England, and features Angelica Leigh, a highly popular actress.
At first, I wasn’t quite sure who was going to turn out to be the man for Angelica, as we meet first one, then a couple more who all seemed quite viable romantic candidates and were engaging in their own ways. But I was glad to discover as the story progressed that things were trending – for me – in the right direction, and I enjoyed the final scenes as everything came together just I’d hoped. It was so satisfying to reach the final page and find the heroine with her man.
There is an astonishing wealth of detail and information in this book to set the scene and really immerse it in its time-period – we learn so much about dress and costume, style and manners, social mores, the lives of the working class as well as the richer set. We learn about politics, culture and even medicine. So much so that it’s impossible to imagine the book in any other setting.
The final scene is a gently saucy one that will leave a smile on your face and provides the perfect light-hearted, romantic closure of this excellent story.
At first, I wasn’t quite sure who was going to turn out to be the man for Angelica, as we meet first one, then a couple more who all seemed quite viable romantic candidates and were engaging in their own ways. But I was glad to discover as the story progressed that things were trending – for me – in the right direction, and I enjoyed the final scenes as everything came together just I’d hoped. It was so satisfying to reach the final page and find the heroine with her man.
There is an astonishing wealth of detail and information in this book to set the scene and really immerse it in its time-period – we learn so much about dress and costume, style and manners, social mores, the lives of the working class as well as the richer set. We learn about politics, culture and even medicine. So much so that it’s impossible to imagine the book in any other setting.
The final scene is a gently saucy one that will leave a smile on your face and provides the perfect light-hearted, romantic closure of this excellent story.
February 29, 2024
This was a first time read for me by this author. This was a clean regency and well-written. Angelica is an actress and has captivated London with her portrayal of Ophelia. Lord Charles Latimer seems to be completely enchanted by her and fancies himself in love. But of course the ton would never accept a match like this. And that is why his mother sends for her brother, Ivor, to intervene. Ivor is a widower with a young daughter and a highly respected lawmaker. Although he himself is still very much considered marriage material by the ton, he has no interest in romance or marriage. He reluctantly agrees to help his sister, but when he himself meets Angelica, he is instantly drawn to her, and constantly finds himself coming to her rescue. A lovely romance then begins to develop between them.
The characters were interesting and well-crafted and the story kept my attention from start to finish. This was a charming and clean romance and I enjoyed the story and would love to read more of this author's work.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Boldwood Books and am voluntarily leaving my review.
The characters were interesting and well-crafted and the story kept my attention from start to finish. This was a charming and clean romance and I enjoyed the story and would love to read more of this author's work.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and Boldwood Books and am voluntarily leaving my review.
March 12, 2024
Another wonderful romance from the pen of Jane Dunn. The beautiful Angelica, a red-haired goddess of the stage whose portrayal of Ophelia draws both crowds and admiration, not all of it wanted. She is a woman of her time who longs to be accepted into polite society, but knows her postion in life forbids it. When she is courted by Lord Latimer she dares to believe her dream might come true, but such thoughts are crushed by the arrival of the Honourable Ivor Asprey, Lord Latimer's uncle, on a mission to dissuade his nephew from offering marriage to her. Ivor has a young daughter, the delightful Elinor, who considers herself to have a gift for match-making, and is very taken with Angelica. The two become friends. The course of true love never runs smooth and poor Angelica suffers an imflamation of the lungs, a similar condition that killed Ivor Asprey's wife. I loved the tangled web this story wove: the highwayman, the rake, the lovers, the hero and heroine, they're all in there. But most of all I loved the joyous ending when Angelica realised that her beauty wasn't simply for others to enjoy, but for her too.
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