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Uncovering The Governess's Secrets
A sensual Victorian gothic romance set in Scotland
She’s running from the past…
Am I the key to her future?
As a private investigator to the rich, it’s my job to be impartial, but returning to moody Edinburgh—the city where I made my name—to locate Marianne Crawford unsettles me. And when I meet the beguiling governess in question I’m inexplicably drawn to her…
Marianne Crawford is a survivor. She’s lived through experiences designed to destroy her. But I’m here to reveal her true identity—not to fall under her spell. I’ve never been afraid of secrets, but once I uncover this one I’m afraid I won’t be able to walk away…
She’s running from the past…
Am I the key to her future?
As a private investigator to the rich, it’s my job to be impartial, but returning to moody Edinburgh—the city where I made my name—to locate Marianne Crawford unsettles me. And when I meet the beguiling governess in question I’m inexplicably drawn to her…
Marianne Crawford is a survivor. She’s lived through experiences designed to destroy her. But I’m here to reveal her true identity—not to fall under her spell. I’ve never been afraid of secrets, but once I uncover this one I’m afraid I won’t be able to walk away…
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2024
7 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Marguerite Kaye
247 books345 followersMarguerite Kaye is a prolific historical romance author hailing from Argyll’s West Coast. She is a voracious consumer of books, Scotland’s world-class larder, and the occasional cocktail.
Find out more on her website at www.margueritekaye.com
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Find out more on her website at www.margueritekaye.com
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
September 9, 2024
4 stars / B
Marguerite Kaye’s latest novel, Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets, is a late Victorian-era historical romance set mainly in Edinburgh, in which the slow-burn love story between its principals runs alongside the gradual unfolding of a mystery and the story of a decades-old injustice. As is always the case with this author’s work, the story and historical background are extremely well-researched – the love and care she puts into her depictions of the locations her characters inhabit are obvious – and those characters always feel as though they are people of their time; there are no wallpapery, twenty-first-century-in-period-dress heroes or heroines here. This is, however, a story that takes a long, hard look at the inequality and lack of agency accorded to women at this time, and which goes even further, to take a look at the truly horrible things that were done to women who didn’t conform or were, in the minds of the men around them, ‘troublemakers’ who needed to be silenced. The story goes to some dark places, and there is mention and recall of certain ‘medical treatments’ employed, but these are not depicted on the page. The story also represents something of a departure for Ms. Kaye, as it’s told in first person, dual PoV, which isn’t something I particularly care for in historicals. It does afford the opportinity for greater exploration of the characters’ thoughts and motivations, but it has its drawbacks, too.
We meet governess Marianne Crawford as she’s beginning her day in her rooms in the tenement at the eastern (and slightly more respectable) end of Edinburgh’s Grassmarket. The day begins as it often does, with feelings of dread, and disturbing memories and half-dreams of a time in her life she would much rather forget, but those dissipate as she comes more awake, and she gets on with preparing for her day looking after the children of a wealthy businessman whose wife is expecting their fifth child. After surviving some truly harrowing events three years earlier, Marianne has built herself a new life in which she has found a degree of safety and contentment, but even so, she can’t help continuing to look over her shoulder and fearing discovery.
Formerly a police officer with the Edinburgh force, Rory Sutherland now works as a private investigator out of London. A Glaswegian (“weegie”) by birth, he had followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming a policeman, making something of a name for himself as someone with a talent for solving the tricker cases, and for being something of a rebel – in that he was more interested in getting justice for all than he was in toeing the line. Seven years earlier, however, he was forced to leave both his job and the city after he made some powerful enemies when investigating the death of a young woman. Accused of taking bribes and of placing his fellow officers in danger, his name was plastered all over the newspapers, which gleefully reported his dramatic fall from grace. He left the city determined never to return, and would not have done so were it not for the fact that his current client, Lord Westville, has tasked him with tracking down a woman who was badly treated by his family… and Rory’s search for her has taken him back to Edinburgh.
Rory knows most of Marianne’s history and he’s in awe of her surviving what she’s been through, which makes him even more uncomfortably aware that the news he will eventually deliver to her will turn her world upside down once again - albeit in a good way. At present, his instructions are to locate her and confirm her identity, not an easy task seeing he’s a total stranger and can’t just walk up to her and launch into an explanation. He decides, instead, to seat himself quietly in the Queen Street Gardens, where he’s seen her take her charges every day for the past week, and hope an opportunity for conversation presents itself.
Marianne notices the newcomer to the gardens almost immediately – but not because she senses a threat, which is an unusual sensation for her. When one of her chargest throws their ball over the heads of the other children and almost into the man’s lap, Marianne goes to retrieve it and finds herself responding easily to his good-natured conversation. But when he suggests that they could talk more later – he could escort her home, perhaps? - Marianne shuts him down and hurries back to the children. Later that evening, she’s finding it difficult to dismiss the very attractive Mr. Rory Sutherland from her mind, sure that, despite her turning down his offer of an escort back to her lodgings, they are destined to meet again.
Over the next few days, Marianne and Rory do, indeed, meet again, and they slowly and cautiously begin opening up about themselves and enjoying each other’s company on walks around the city. There’s a definite frisson of attraction between them from the moment they meet, and their romance is filled with longing and wanting, but this is very much a slow burn, with both characters holding back for good reason. Rory knows he’s lying to Marianne by omission and that he can’t act on his feelings while she doesn’t know the truth, and Marianne’s betrayal by a man she thought loved her has naturally made her very cautious about trusting anyone ever again. They both work hard to convince themselves that the strong attraction they’re feeling towards each other can go nowhere, but the heart wants what the heart wants, and despite all the reasons they keep giving themselves as to why they shouldn’t become involved, it’s impossible to stop it.
I liked both protagonists – strong, determined Marianne, insightful and compassionate Rory. They’re well drawn with a lot of depth and complexity, and the reasons for their reluctance to become romantically involved are clear, especially on Marianne’s part. The story of what happened to her simply because of one man’s greed is both heartbreaking and enraging; I was frequently angered by the fact that she could be so easily ‘denounced’ and locked away for no reason at all, and that this was, sadly, a not uncommon occurrence for women who refused to just sit around and look ornamental. I liked the way the backstory is revealed in the occasional flashback chapter, and I enjoyed their joining forces, in the second half, to try to find answers to the unsolved mystery that led to Rory’s departure seven years earlier. But the pacing is a little slow, especially in the first half, and that downside to the first person perspectives I mentioned at the outset is that far too much time is spent on internal monologues – which are often repetitive (‘I want him/her but I mustn’t’, etc.) - and physical descriptions of locations, and these contribute to an overall feeling of sluggishness. I’m reluctant to say it because I’m a big fan of this author, but the book feels over-long for the amount of story it contains. On a positive note, though, I’ll give the author props for her handling of the third-act break-up – we can, of course, see it coming a mile off, but the resolution is arrived at in a way that reflects the age and life-experience of the characters.
Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets is a book I’m happy to recommend for its nicely developed and sensual romance, its thoughtful exploration of a difficult subject, and its excellently articulated sense of time and place. If you’re fed up with the constant diet of dukes and curl-tossing activist heroines Who Are Not Like Other Women that passes for most historical romance these days, I would definitely suggest giving Marguerite Kaye’s novels a try.
Marguerite Kaye’s latest novel, Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets, is a late Victorian-era historical romance set mainly in Edinburgh, in which the slow-burn love story between its principals runs alongside the gradual unfolding of a mystery and the story of a decades-old injustice. As is always the case with this author’s work, the story and historical background are extremely well-researched – the love and care she puts into her depictions of the locations her characters inhabit are obvious – and those characters always feel as though they are people of their time; there are no wallpapery, twenty-first-century-in-period-dress heroes or heroines here. This is, however, a story that takes a long, hard look at the inequality and lack of agency accorded to women at this time, and which goes even further, to take a look at the truly horrible things that were done to women who didn’t conform or were, in the minds of the men around them, ‘troublemakers’ who needed to be silenced. The story goes to some dark places, and there is mention and recall of certain ‘medical treatments’ employed, but these are not depicted on the page. The story also represents something of a departure for Ms. Kaye, as it’s told in first person, dual PoV, which isn’t something I particularly care for in historicals. It does afford the opportinity for greater exploration of the characters’ thoughts and motivations, but it has its drawbacks, too.
We meet governess Marianne Crawford as she’s beginning her day in her rooms in the tenement at the eastern (and slightly more respectable) end of Edinburgh’s Grassmarket. The day begins as it often does, with feelings of dread, and disturbing memories and half-dreams of a time in her life she would much rather forget, but those dissipate as she comes more awake, and she gets on with preparing for her day looking after the children of a wealthy businessman whose wife is expecting their fifth child. After surviving some truly harrowing events three years earlier, Marianne has built herself a new life in which she has found a degree of safety and contentment, but even so, she can’t help continuing to look over her shoulder and fearing discovery.
Formerly a police officer with the Edinburgh force, Rory Sutherland now works as a private investigator out of London. A Glaswegian (“weegie”) by birth, he had followed in his father’s footsteps by becoming a policeman, making something of a name for himself as someone with a talent for solving the tricker cases, and for being something of a rebel – in that he was more interested in getting justice for all than he was in toeing the line. Seven years earlier, however, he was forced to leave both his job and the city after he made some powerful enemies when investigating the death of a young woman. Accused of taking bribes and of placing his fellow officers in danger, his name was plastered all over the newspapers, which gleefully reported his dramatic fall from grace. He left the city determined never to return, and would not have done so were it not for the fact that his current client, Lord Westville, has tasked him with tracking down a woman who was badly treated by his family… and Rory’s search for her has taken him back to Edinburgh.
Rory knows most of Marianne’s history and he’s in awe of her surviving what she’s been through, which makes him even more uncomfortably aware that the news he will eventually deliver to her will turn her world upside down once again - albeit in a good way. At present, his instructions are to locate her and confirm her identity, not an easy task seeing he’s a total stranger and can’t just walk up to her and launch into an explanation. He decides, instead, to seat himself quietly in the Queen Street Gardens, where he’s seen her take her charges every day for the past week, and hope an opportunity for conversation presents itself.
Marianne notices the newcomer to the gardens almost immediately – but not because she senses a threat, which is an unusual sensation for her. When one of her chargest throws their ball over the heads of the other children and almost into the man’s lap, Marianne goes to retrieve it and finds herself responding easily to his good-natured conversation. But when he suggests that they could talk more later – he could escort her home, perhaps? - Marianne shuts him down and hurries back to the children. Later that evening, she’s finding it difficult to dismiss the very attractive Mr. Rory Sutherland from her mind, sure that, despite her turning down his offer of an escort back to her lodgings, they are destined to meet again.
Over the next few days, Marianne and Rory do, indeed, meet again, and they slowly and cautiously begin opening up about themselves and enjoying each other’s company on walks around the city. There’s a definite frisson of attraction between them from the moment they meet, and their romance is filled with longing and wanting, but this is very much a slow burn, with both characters holding back for good reason. Rory knows he’s lying to Marianne by omission and that he can’t act on his feelings while she doesn’t know the truth, and Marianne’s betrayal by a man she thought loved her has naturally made her very cautious about trusting anyone ever again. They both work hard to convince themselves that the strong attraction they’re feeling towards each other can go nowhere, but the heart wants what the heart wants, and despite all the reasons they keep giving themselves as to why they shouldn’t become involved, it’s impossible to stop it.
I liked both protagonists – strong, determined Marianne, insightful and compassionate Rory. They’re well drawn with a lot of depth and complexity, and the reasons for their reluctance to become romantically involved are clear, especially on Marianne’s part. The story of what happened to her simply because of one man’s greed is both heartbreaking and enraging; I was frequently angered by the fact that she could be so easily ‘denounced’ and locked away for no reason at all, and that this was, sadly, a not uncommon occurrence for women who refused to just sit around and look ornamental. I liked the way the backstory is revealed in the occasional flashback chapter, and I enjoyed their joining forces, in the second half, to try to find answers to the unsolved mystery that led to Rory’s departure seven years earlier. But the pacing is a little slow, especially in the first half, and that downside to the first person perspectives I mentioned at the outset is that far too much time is spent on internal monologues – which are often repetitive (‘I want him/her but I mustn’t’, etc.) - and physical descriptions of locations, and these contribute to an overall feeling of sluggishness. I’m reluctant to say it because I’m a big fan of this author, but the book feels over-long for the amount of story it contains. On a positive note, though, I’ll give the author props for her handling of the third-act break-up – we can, of course, see it coming a mile off, but the resolution is arrived at in a way that reflects the age and life-experience of the characters.
Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets is a book I’m happy to recommend for its nicely developed and sensual romance, its thoughtful exploration of a difficult subject, and its excellently articulated sense of time and place. If you’re fed up with the constant diet of dukes and curl-tossing activist heroines Who Are Not Like Other Women that passes for most historical romance these days, I would definitely suggest giving Marguerite Kaye’s novels a try.
September 15, 2024
I wish the romance genre would move past alternating first person point-of-view, and I say this as someone who generally loves well done first person. I "get" why the author makes that authorial choice with this story, first person can work exceedingly well in a story with overt Gothic overtones, and the individual voices of the hero and heroine are distinct enough that they don't read flat.
I just don't like it in historicals. There, I said it.
Also I felt the pacing of the story suffers for it. A lot of repetitive internal musing. A lack of narrative urgency to the overall plot. For a book with two mysteries in it (one of which features a giant lack of closure and offends my sense of fair play) the pacing really lags. Things picked up for me towards the end, I thought the story had a wonderful sense of place, and that the couple are a good match - but this one was a slow read for me.
I just don't like it in historicals. There, I said it.
Also I felt the pacing of the story suffers for it. A lot of repetitive internal musing. A lack of narrative urgency to the overall plot. For a book with two mysteries in it (one of which features a giant lack of closure and offends my sense of fair play) the pacing really lags. Things picked up for me towards the end, I thought the story had a wonderful sense of place, and that the couple are a good match - but this one was a slow read for me.
July 4, 2024
Uncovering The Governess’s Secrets is a romance set in 19th century Scotland. The book is mainly set in Edinburgh, but also has parts in Glasgow.
It has been four years since Marianne escaped the asylum that she was sent to for no good reason. She has made a new life for herself as a governess in Edinburgh. She likes children and she is very good at her job.
Private investigator Rory returns to Edinburgh, where he was once a successful policeman. He’s here to seek out Marianne. Rory has a fine reputation for solving cases, and now he’s found his target.
What a lovely novel this was. I really liked both Marianne and Rory, and their stories were built-up layer upon layer. I could easily picture the settings of the late 1800s from the steam train smoke that filled the station in Glasgow to the places that they visited in Edinburgh.
I’m not going to say anything else about the storyline as I wish to avoid spoilers, but I will say that if you enjoy historical romances then this is a very good way to spend a few hours with a book.
It has been four years since Marianne escaped the asylum that she was sent to for no good reason. She has made a new life for herself as a governess in Edinburgh. She likes children and she is very good at her job.
Private investigator Rory returns to Edinburgh, where he was once a successful policeman. He’s here to seek out Marianne. Rory has a fine reputation for solving cases, and now he’s found his target.
What a lovely novel this was. I really liked both Marianne and Rory, and their stories were built-up layer upon layer. I could easily picture the settings of the late 1800s from the steam train smoke that filled the station in Glasgow to the places that they visited in Edinburgh.
I’m not going to say anything else about the storyline as I wish to avoid spoilers, but I will say that if you enjoy historical romances then this is a very good way to spend a few hours with a book.
September 9, 2024
Wow, just wow!!
I am in absolute, head-over-heels, love with this book, it's easily one of my favourite books of the year. I've read a lot of Marguerite Kaye's books, she's one of my all-time favourite authors and this one is easily (and this isn't easy to say as I adore all I've read) the best I've read of all her books to date!!
I am not the most eloquently spoken person, what you see (or read) is what you get with me so I don't have the adequate words for just how beautiful this book is, (I apologise in advance for repetition and babble) so I'm going to stick to what I know and that is; this book is chuffing brilliant!!
It's incredibly tender, heartbreaking and hauntingly beautiful, I was utterly captivated from the very first atmospheric page. I loved the darker tone to it, the edginess, the restless feeling which is constantly hovering about at the periphery of the story.
I loved how this is written, it's first person each character alternates between Marianne and Rory's point of view, those who have followed the blog for a while will know that first person narrative has been hit and miss with me in the past, but this is wonderfully written and perfect for the story and for the characters you really become drawn into their world.
Private detective Rory has returned to Edinburgh after years away, in a past life he was a policeman but after a particular case he'd had to leave under circumstances not of his doing and now he is back in his old stomping ground. There is danger lurking at every corner but he's been sent to do a job, he must find a woman, who doesn't want to be found! He isn't there for romance, or any kind of entanglement he's there to do a job, and more personally to set old ghosts free!
Marianne has spent a year hiding away, hiding from a horrific past and those who wish to harm her, she has found contentment in her life as a governess, but memories of what happened to her invade her dreams turning them into a long-lived nightmare, her days are lived constantly looking over her shoulder keeping her head down to avoid detection as she has secrets he can never reveal. But everything changes when a handsome man with secrets in his eyes, and unspoken truths hanging in the air appears in her life!
You feel Marianne's fear, her unease that she is living on borrowed time, the heartbreak that her life which she has built for herself could be stolen away at any moment. Her distrust of everyone and herself, her anxiety, her confusion never knowing whether her feelings are real or just imagined, and doubt keep clawing at her and she is consistently questioning herself and her instincts.
Then comes along Rory, ah Rory!!!
This man has my whole heart, for me, he is the perfect hero, I don't need aristocrats in stuffy cravats, and I definitely don't need a certain Mr Darcy (not that there is anything wrong with him, he's just not Rory!) all I need is a self-made working-class man who loves deeply, and has a hidden sense of humour and is oh, so seductive. Rory is plain-spoken, he doesn't faff about with pretty words, he says it how it is and I love it!!
There are some beautiful moments between Marianne and Rory; walks through church yards where they both feel at peace, having a picnic and sharing a wee kiss. I adore the subtle intimacy between them; it's breathtaking and so beautifully written; the brush of her skirts against his thighs, the feather-light touch of her hand, each knowing what the other is thinking, the unspoken words that only they hear!
Double swoon!
I found the scenes when Rory is teaching Marianne his native Glaswegian words and phrases so heartwarming, plus there is a particular scene where Marianne mentions how much she loves the way his accent deepens and becomes stronger the more emotional he becomes, I'm imagining Richard Rankin *sigh!* those sweet little moments brings a lightness to what is quite a dark story!
I have to mention the chapters centring around Marianne's time in the asylum, it's not the easiest of reads but Marguerite Kaye is always solid with her research so the history and storyline are handled with absolute sensitivity and compassion, those scenes are integral parts of the story!
There's a slight shift away from what we've come to expect, there is a darker note which I was completely gripped, the romance is oh so sweetly tender, though I did wonder right up the end how on earth two such troubled individuals could ever have a happy ending with each other, as there is so much which keeps them apart, their's isn't your stereotypical romance, there is a lot of emotional and past trauma which each of them have to face and work through, especially Marianne.
But, I was worrying for nothing because Marguerite Kaye absolutely nailed the ending, plus the way it was so beautifully wrapped up made me fall in love with Rory all the more - he really is a true gentleman who is full of genuine compassion and love!
There isn't a single thing I didn't love about this book, the story is just gorgeous and so deeply emotional, fantastic setting with vivid descriptions and a richly detailed history of both Edinburgh and Glasgow and two flawed and complex characters whose love story will melt the heart, absolute perfection!!
I am in absolute, head-over-heels, love with this book, it's easily one of my favourite books of the year. I've read a lot of Marguerite Kaye's books, she's one of my all-time favourite authors and this one is easily (and this isn't easy to say as I adore all I've read) the best I've read of all her books to date!!
I am not the most eloquently spoken person, what you see (or read) is what you get with me so I don't have the adequate words for just how beautiful this book is, (I apologise in advance for repetition and babble) so I'm going to stick to what I know and that is; this book is chuffing brilliant!!
It's incredibly tender, heartbreaking and hauntingly beautiful, I was utterly captivated from the very first atmospheric page. I loved the darker tone to it, the edginess, the restless feeling which is constantly hovering about at the periphery of the story.
I loved how this is written, it's first person each character alternates between Marianne and Rory's point of view, those who have followed the blog for a while will know that first person narrative has been hit and miss with me in the past, but this is wonderfully written and perfect for the story and for the characters you really become drawn into their world.
Private detective Rory has returned to Edinburgh after years away, in a past life he was a policeman but after a particular case he'd had to leave under circumstances not of his doing and now he is back in his old stomping ground. There is danger lurking at every corner but he's been sent to do a job, he must find a woman, who doesn't want to be found! He isn't there for romance, or any kind of entanglement he's there to do a job, and more personally to set old ghosts free!
Marianne has spent a year hiding away, hiding from a horrific past and those who wish to harm her, she has found contentment in her life as a governess, but memories of what happened to her invade her dreams turning them into a long-lived nightmare, her days are lived constantly looking over her shoulder keeping her head down to avoid detection as she has secrets he can never reveal. But everything changes when a handsome man with secrets in his eyes, and unspoken truths hanging in the air appears in her life!
You feel Marianne's fear, her unease that she is living on borrowed time, the heartbreak that her life which she has built for herself could be stolen away at any moment. Her distrust of everyone and herself, her anxiety, her confusion never knowing whether her feelings are real or just imagined, and doubt keep clawing at her and she is consistently questioning herself and her instincts.
Then comes along Rory, ah Rory!!!
This man has my whole heart, for me, he is the perfect hero, I don't need aristocrats in stuffy cravats, and I definitely don't need a certain Mr Darcy (not that there is anything wrong with him, he's just not Rory!) all I need is a self-made working-class man who loves deeply, and has a hidden sense of humour and is oh, so seductive. Rory is plain-spoken, he doesn't faff about with pretty words, he says it how it is and I love it!!
There are some beautiful moments between Marianne and Rory; walks through church yards where they both feel at peace, having a picnic and sharing a wee kiss. I adore the subtle intimacy between them; it's breathtaking and so beautifully written; the brush of her skirts against his thighs, the feather-light touch of her hand, each knowing what the other is thinking, the unspoken words that only they hear!
Double swoon!
I found the scenes when Rory is teaching Marianne his native Glaswegian words and phrases so heartwarming, plus there is a particular scene where Marianne mentions how much she loves the way his accent deepens and becomes stronger the more emotional he becomes, I'm imagining Richard Rankin *sigh!* those sweet little moments brings a lightness to what is quite a dark story!
I have to mention the chapters centring around Marianne's time in the asylum, it's not the easiest of reads but Marguerite Kaye is always solid with her research so the history and storyline are handled with absolute sensitivity and compassion, those scenes are integral parts of the story!
There's a slight shift away from what we've come to expect, there is a darker note which I was completely gripped, the romance is oh so sweetly tender, though I did wonder right up the end how on earth two such troubled individuals could ever have a happy ending with each other, as there is so much which keeps them apart, their's isn't your stereotypical romance, there is a lot of emotional and past trauma which each of them have to face and work through, especially Marianne.
But, I was worrying for nothing because Marguerite Kaye absolutely nailed the ending, plus the way it was so beautifully wrapped up made me fall in love with Rory all the more - he really is a true gentleman who is full of genuine compassion and love!
There isn't a single thing I didn't love about this book, the story is just gorgeous and so deeply emotional, fantastic setting with vivid descriptions and a richly detailed history of both Edinburgh and Glasgow and two flawed and complex characters whose love story will melt the heart, absolute perfection!!
July 17, 2024
Ooft this book has a storyline that packs a punch. And with that a lovely cover that does not give anything away in terms of just how dark it is going to get. All good so far!
I do enjoy Marguerite Kaye's Victorian novels as she always does her research. Indeed for any era (can I put a bid in for a different one for the next book, either a lot earlier or somewhat later, please?). For this one delving into the depths of lunatic asylums and crime. Not the cheeriest of topics it has to be said. But I was very surprised and pleased to see Crichton at Dumfries referenced as one of my research subjects was actually incarcerated there in 1842 AND I have a copy of her records.
Marianne was extremely real to me as a character as her fear and trauma were palpable from the first pages. These were a little tricky for me at first as both she and Rory, our hero, speak to the reader in the first person. But once the reader gets past this we see both of them show themselves in the present and when more comfortable in the past too.
Rory is an investigator and former police officer who is on a mission to find Marianne but not necessarily in the way the reader may first think. He's a solid, good man who is fascinated by her strength and I really liked how they were both quite honest about their attraction despite their pasts.
Due to the difficult subject matter which I won't spoil here please be aware of trigger warnings for mental health, incarceration and crimes such as murder.
This book has quite a journey to complete and it was one of those stories for me that felt so good the whole way through that I just had to give it five stars. It was different and yet satisfying as well as challenging and the romance still shone through all of this.
As an addendum, was it just me or did Marianne's origins remind anyone else of the sub-plot in The Earl Who Sees Her Beauty (2021)?
I do enjoy Marguerite Kaye's Victorian novels as she always does her research. Indeed for any era (can I put a bid in for a different one for the next book, either a lot earlier or somewhat later, please?). For this one delving into the depths of lunatic asylums and crime. Not the cheeriest of topics it has to be said. But I was very surprised and pleased to see Crichton at Dumfries referenced as one of my research subjects was actually incarcerated there in 1842 AND I have a copy of her records.
Marianne was extremely real to me as a character as her fear and trauma were palpable from the first pages. These were a little tricky for me at first as both she and Rory, our hero, speak to the reader in the first person. But once the reader gets past this we see both of them show themselves in the present and when more comfortable in the past too.
Rory is an investigator and former police officer who is on a mission to find Marianne but not necessarily in the way the reader may first think. He's a solid, good man who is fascinated by her strength and I really liked how they were both quite honest about their attraction despite their pasts.
Due to the difficult subject matter which I won't spoil here please be aware of trigger warnings for mental health, incarceration and crimes such as murder.
This book has quite a journey to complete and it was one of those stories for me that felt so good the whole way through that I just had to give it five stars. It was different and yet satisfying as well as challenging and the romance still shone through all of this.
As an addendum, was it just me or did Marianne's origins remind anyone else of the sub-plot in The Earl Who Sees Her Beauty (2021)?
July 28, 2024
I loved this book. I've previously read Marguerite Kate' s collaborations with Sarah, Duchess of York and was particularly looking forward to her Edinburgh Gothic, which she has been posting about on social media. I lived in Edinburgh for six months when I was younger. I'm Glaswegian, like the hero, so I really appreciated the Weegie dialect and I'm glad the editor let this stand. Meanings can be gleaned from context.
I like that the characters are a bit older than you often get in romances. Both the main characters have compelling backstories which are woven in well. And I was rooting for them.
The scene-setting is excellent, both in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and I enjoyed seeing the historical versions of places I know today. The long-standing rivalry between the two largest cities in Scotland is hinted at.
Thoroughly recommend.
I like that the characters are a bit older than you often get in romances. Both the main characters have compelling backstories which are woven in well. And I was rooting for them.
The scene-setting is excellent, both in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and I enjoyed seeing the historical versions of places I know today. The long-standing rivalry between the two largest cities in Scotland is hinted at.
Thoroughly recommend.
July 22, 2024
The story had me captured from the started. I fell in love with both the main characters.
I loved the setting, both cities I have visited but more recently, so they have changed since the 1800's.
I was rooting for a romance from the moment they met but there was a difficult subject matter in the story, so beware of trigger warnings for mental health, institutions and murder.
There are many layers to the storyline but it was enthralling and I loved it. The strong female character made for great reading.
I did wonder if the ending might not be what I wanted but in order not to spoil it I will just say the ending did not disappoint, in fact I wondered if there might be a sequel - one can only hope.
I loved the setting, both cities I have visited but more recently, so they have changed since the 1800's.
I was rooting for a romance from the moment they met but there was a difficult subject matter in the story, so beware of trigger warnings for mental health, institutions and murder.
There are many layers to the storyline but it was enthralling and I loved it. The strong female character made for great reading.
I did wonder if the ending might not be what I wanted but in order not to spoil it I will just say the ending did not disappoint, in fact I wondered if there might be a sequel - one can only hope.
June 18, 2024
5 stars
This is a lovely story. We understand that Marianne has had a terrible time. She's had to flee an untenable situation and is continually looking behind to see if someone is hunting her. She thinks some of it was her fault for being too honest with her lover. She has a fine sense of intuition almost clairvoyant. Marianne meets our hero Rory and though she is attracted to him she is also very sceptical. Rory is a private detective with his own reasons for being cautious about Edinburgh. There's a second mystery to be solved here. The lovemaking scenes are tenderly described.
I came to enjoy the dual voice: alternate chapters being the hero/heroine's viewpoint. The remedial action was very pragmatic and I learnt about the politics of the 19th centuries and some of the challenges. Our author gives us some great descriptions of the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and builds the gothic atmosphere of walking around an area that is sometimes unsafe.
I have traced some of my own family with the excellent resources of the scottish records office to learn that they would have been living in the tenements of Glasgow city in 1919
There's some scottish venacular which the author gleefully explains...read the book to find out what oxter means!
I heartily recommend this well crafted romantic story. Rory and Marianne are great characters.
All opinions are mine and I was kindly gifted a copy of the book by the author.
This is a lovely story. We understand that Marianne has had a terrible time. She's had to flee an untenable situation and is continually looking behind to see if someone is hunting her. She thinks some of it was her fault for being too honest with her lover. She has a fine sense of intuition almost clairvoyant. Marianne meets our hero Rory and though she is attracted to him she is also very sceptical. Rory is a private detective with his own reasons for being cautious about Edinburgh. There's a second mystery to be solved here. The lovemaking scenes are tenderly described.
I came to enjoy the dual voice: alternate chapters being the hero/heroine's viewpoint. The remedial action was very pragmatic and I learnt about the politics of the 19th centuries and some of the challenges. Our author gives us some great descriptions of the cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow and builds the gothic atmosphere of walking around an area that is sometimes unsafe.
I have traced some of my own family with the excellent resources of the scottish records office to learn that they would have been living in the tenements of Glasgow city in 1919
There's some scottish venacular which the author gleefully explains...read the book to find out what oxter means!
I heartily recommend this well crafted romantic story. Rory and Marianne are great characters.
All opinions are mine and I was kindly gifted a copy of the book by the author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 13, 2025
Readers of historical romance will not be able to resist the latest Victorian tale by Marguerite Kaye – Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets.
Marianne Crawford has been through hell and back, but she’s managed to rise above the plethora of challenges that have been thrown her way and emerged as a true survivor. Other women would have crumbled having to endure the things that she had been forced to go through, but Marianne had no other choice but to be tough and tenacious in order to live life on her own terms. Men have always sought to control her and subjugate her, but Marianne has managed to forge her own path and now works as a governess in Edinburgh. Romance couldn’t be further from her mind – until she crosses paths with private investigator Rory Sutherland, who like Marianne, has dark secrets of his own…
Rory’s return to Edinburgh brings to the surface memories which he has tried so very hard to keep dead and buried. But as a private investigator to the rich, Rory had been left with no other choice but to take this latest case and return back to the city that is plagued with heart-shattering reminders for him. Tasked with finding Marianne and revealing her true identity should have been an assignment like any other – until Rory finds himself completely beguiled by the plucky, intelligent and beautiful governess.
Thrown together by fate, Rory and Marianne soon find themselves drawn to one another. However, Rory knows that he must keep things strictly professional with Marianne because when he reveals the real reason why he’s in Edinburgh, he might just lose her forever…
Marguerite Kaye is at her best with Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets. A Scottish Gothic historical romance set in a vividly described Edinburgh – and an equally evoked brief sojourn in Glasgow – Uncovering the Governess’s Secret is a beautifully written tale that doesn’t shy away from the struggles of the Victorian age by skilfully highlighting the lack of agency and autonomy for women during that period and the bravery and strength they needed to tread their own path.
Uncovering the Governess’s Secret is a romantic tale about second chances, healing from old wounds and finding the courage to love again. I was completely swept away by Marianne and Rory’s love story and I loved the fact that for once the hero wasn’t a duke or a member of the aristocracy – a rarity in historical romance today!
Marguerite Kaye never disappoints and she has outdone herself yet again with Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets.
Marianne Crawford has been through hell and back, but she’s managed to rise above the plethora of challenges that have been thrown her way and emerged as a true survivor. Other women would have crumbled having to endure the things that she had been forced to go through, but Marianne had no other choice but to be tough and tenacious in order to live life on her own terms. Men have always sought to control her and subjugate her, but Marianne has managed to forge her own path and now works as a governess in Edinburgh. Romance couldn’t be further from her mind – until she crosses paths with private investigator Rory Sutherland, who like Marianne, has dark secrets of his own…
Rory’s return to Edinburgh brings to the surface memories which he has tried so very hard to keep dead and buried. But as a private investigator to the rich, Rory had been left with no other choice but to take this latest case and return back to the city that is plagued with heart-shattering reminders for him. Tasked with finding Marianne and revealing her true identity should have been an assignment like any other – until Rory finds himself completely beguiled by the plucky, intelligent and beautiful governess.
Thrown together by fate, Rory and Marianne soon find themselves drawn to one another. However, Rory knows that he must keep things strictly professional with Marianne because when he reveals the real reason why he’s in Edinburgh, he might just lose her forever…
Marguerite Kaye is at her best with Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets. A Scottish Gothic historical romance set in a vividly described Edinburgh – and an equally evoked brief sojourn in Glasgow – Uncovering the Governess’s Secret is a beautifully written tale that doesn’t shy away from the struggles of the Victorian age by skilfully highlighting the lack of agency and autonomy for women during that period and the bravery and strength they needed to tread their own path.
Uncovering the Governess’s Secret is a romantic tale about second chances, healing from old wounds and finding the courage to love again. I was completely swept away by Marianne and Rory’s love story and I loved the fact that for once the hero wasn’t a duke or a member of the aristocracy – a rarity in historical romance today!
Marguerite Kaye never disappoints and she has outdone herself yet again with Uncovering the Governess’s Secrets.
July 28, 2024
If I had to describe my thoughts about this book in just one word, it would be WOW! From the fantastic cover to the opening scene to the very end of the book I was absolutely captivated by this book. Marguerite Kaye is a favourite author of mine. I have read many of her books but I believe this one must be one of the darkest. It might be dark, but wow, it really made me run the gamut of emotions. I didn't want to put it down once I started reading it.
What I particularly liked is that despite the dark subject there was still a real and believable romance building slowly between the main couple in the story, Private Investigator, Rory, and Marianne Crawford the woman Rory has been tasked with finding. There were also some light moments, fun ones including Marianne getting used to Rory's accent and some of the words he used. The author cleverly knew to put some light moments into the story, making it easier to read when things could have been developing too darkly. There were some very sweet, and very passionate moments between the couple too which were beautiful to read. I couldn't see how they could have a future together and wondered how the author could manage it believably. I am glad to say that the way their story ended was perfect and left a big smile on my face.
It is always obvious how much research Marguerite puts into each book she writes, and this book proves to be no different. I love how at the end she even puts notes to let you know where she got a lot of her information. Not only was I engrossed in this story, but I also ended up learning a few things as well. A book by this author will always be a good one that I will recommend!
What I particularly liked is that despite the dark subject there was still a real and believable romance building slowly between the main couple in the story, Private Investigator, Rory, and Marianne Crawford the woman Rory has been tasked with finding. There were also some light moments, fun ones including Marianne getting used to Rory's accent and some of the words he used. The author cleverly knew to put some light moments into the story, making it easier to read when things could have been developing too darkly. There were some very sweet, and very passionate moments between the couple too which were beautiful to read. I couldn't see how they could have a future together and wondered how the author could manage it believably. I am glad to say that the way their story ended was perfect and left a big smile on my face.
It is always obvious how much research Marguerite puts into each book she writes, and this book proves to be no different. I love how at the end she even puts notes to let you know where she got a lot of her information. Not only was I engrossed in this story, but I also ended up learning a few things as well. A book by this author will always be a good one that I will recommend!
July 10, 2024
Edinburgh - 1877
Marianne Little Crawford, 33, works as a governess for a businessman whose wife is awaiting the birth of their fifth child. One day, Marianne takes the children to a nearby park to play. There, a man is sitting seeming to observe her. When a child’s toy is thrown close to him, she talks to him. He is Rory Sutherland. Formerly an Edinburgh policeman, he is now a private investigator trying to learn more about Marianne. When a particular mystery is solved, he will tell Marianne that her life is about to be changed.
Marianne was confined for 4 years in a mental institution. She had been incarcerated by a family member. But one day, with the help of one of the staff, she is able to escape. Thus, her current job as a governess is a blessing to her. Even though she has been free for some time, she does her best to not stand out.
Before long, Marianne and Rory have formed a friendship and meet up often to enjoy walks exploring the area of Edinburgh as well as Glasgow. During these times, they confide things about their past. Yet both of them are still keeping secrets. If this friendship turns into something deeper, will they have the strength to share their secrets with one another?
This is a very delightful story about two people with some painful things in their past. I liked the author’s descriptions of the areas they visited, especially the graveyards that seemed to give Marianne peace. I wish I could see what the future holds for Marianne and Rory. Enjoy!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Marianne Little Crawford, 33, works as a governess for a businessman whose wife is awaiting the birth of their fifth child. One day, Marianne takes the children to a nearby park to play. There, a man is sitting seeming to observe her. When a child’s toy is thrown close to him, she talks to him. He is Rory Sutherland. Formerly an Edinburgh policeman, he is now a private investigator trying to learn more about Marianne. When a particular mystery is solved, he will tell Marianne that her life is about to be changed.
Marianne was confined for 4 years in a mental institution. She had been incarcerated by a family member. But one day, with the help of one of the staff, she is able to escape. Thus, her current job as a governess is a blessing to her. Even though she has been free for some time, she does her best to not stand out.
Before long, Marianne and Rory have formed a friendship and meet up often to enjoy walks exploring the area of Edinburgh as well as Glasgow. During these times, they confide things about their past. Yet both of them are still keeping secrets. If this friendship turns into something deeper, will they have the strength to share their secrets with one another?
This is a very delightful story about two people with some painful things in their past. I liked the author’s descriptions of the areas they visited, especially the graveyards that seemed to give Marianne peace. I wish I could see what the future holds for Marianne and Rory. Enjoy!
Copy provided by the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 2, 2025
this was a very good read and i did enjoy it so. the hero and heroine work really well together.
there is also a murder mystery.
i did so enjoy this book and read it whenever i had the time to.
i love it was set in Scotland Edinburgh and Glasgow. and set in the victorian area a time we don't always see. i did enjoy this book and would read it again sometime
well done
there is also a murder mystery.
i did so enjoy this book and read it whenever i had the time to.
i love it was set in Scotland Edinburgh and Glasgow. and set in the victorian area a time we don't always see. i did enjoy this book and would read it again sometime
well done
August 4, 2024
Another great story by this author. I am always guaranteed to love any story by this author - and this one did not disappoint. I loved the main characters, and the settings. Once I started reading, I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Loved it!
July 25, 2024
Loved this book 🥰. Review to follow
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November 4, 2024For first time in ages I couldn't finish a book.
I usually like this author, but this was dreary, and I hated the first person method used, it just didn't work for me
I usually like this author, but this was dreary, and I hated the first person method used, it just didn't work for me
October 16, 2024
I'm not a great Mills and Boons fan but I do like Marguerite Kaye's stories, which always include a strong, 'thinking' woman. You won't find balls and debs here, but in this case a private investigator and a temping governess/nanny running from a past that haunts her, and doing very nicely, thank you.
I really enjoyed Marianne and Rory getting to know each other, and the settings around Edinburgh helped bring the story to life.
I really enjoyed Marianne and Rory getting to know each other, and the settings around Edinburgh helped bring the story to life.
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