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Me & Georgette
Devorah Asher is blessed with beauty, brains, and a great collection of Georgette Heyer novels. What 30-year-old Devorah doesn’t have is one of the most highly prized commodities in her Orthodox Jewish community—a husband. Even when an eligible man does appear on the scene, she fumbles the opportunity by falling off a chair...and landing in Georgette Heyer’s Regency England. She is taken under the wing of the very rich and very charming Duke of Ravenscroft, who suspects that Devorah is Jewish and would therefore be the perfect wife for his Jewish tenant, Jonathan Whyteman. First, though, the Duke needs to enlist Devorah’s aid with fending off the advances of the very persistent Lady Albinia Brinkburn. While the world thinks the Duke is planning on marrying Devorah, she is slowly becoming attracted to Mr. Whyteman. But it’s the wrong place and the wrong century. So even though she has finally found The One, how can she straighten out this convoluted match? A light-hearted comedy of manners written in the tradition of Georgette Heyer’s "The Grand Sophy" and "Sylvester or the Wicked Uncle".
288 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2014
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not-going-to-finish
December 5, 2024As a Georgette Heyer lover, this book sounded right up my alley. But as much as I love Heyer, I dislike time travel. And right now, the time travel is driving me crazy so I think I better quit while I am ahead.
Want to Read
February 12, 2017Time-traveling and Heyer addicted heroine? Heck yes, count me in!!
February 12, 2019
Devorah Asher is a 30-year-old modern Orthodox Jewish woman in possession of a successful career and a collection of Georgette Heyer Regency Romance novels. This is not enough for her mother, grandmother or best friend. They desire above all else for Devorah to settle down and marry a suitable gentleman. Devorah has not found Mr. Right just yet. All the men left in the community are widowed or divorced and she'd rather not. When Devorah's best friend tries to fix Devorah up with her husband's cousin Yitzhak, Devorah decides to play a little joke on everyone and show up to Purim in costume. She rents an elaborate Regency costume modified to fit her modesty requirements and arrives at her friend's house in style. Everyone is confused by Devorah's costume, especially Yitzhak, for whom the costume brings up unpleasant memories of an eccentric cousin. When Dev catches her foot on her gown, she hits her head on the counter.... and wakes up in Regency England! Devorah is rescued by Adam, Duke of Ravenscroft. Adam has his own reasons for wanting Devorah to recover as a guest in his home. It is his Mama's fondest wish to marry off her eldest son to her goddaughter, Albinia. The rest of the family, including Adam and the downstairs "family," can't stand Albinia. Devorah is a fish out of water, especially being an Orthodox Jew. How can she practice her religion when the Duchess is a chapel fanatic with her own chaplain in residence? Help comes from an unexpected quarter but all Devorah wants is to go home in time for Passover.
This book is a hot mess. The prologue has nothing to do with the rest of the story and resembles nothing Georgette Heyer would write, at least not without the hero coming to the rescue. The beginning of the story describes life in the Orthodox neighborhood of Boro Park, New York. The author is Jewish but not from New York. As an outsider, I wonder if her depiction is accurate for modern day? It seems stereotypical and Devorah and her family make my nearest Orthodox neighbors look secular. I'd like to know what the women of Boro Park think of this novel. The culture does resemble Regency society somewhat but as a modern woman, Devorah has options. She has a successful career in business, her own apartment and the choice whether to marry or not. As she is soon to discover, Regency women did not have those options.
At first in seems as if Devorah (the author) has only cursory knowledge of Regency society gleaned from reading Georgette Heyer's novels. She doesn't seem to be as familiar with Jane Austen, despite the similarities in their societies. Jane's world is closer to Devorah's than Heyer's, since Jane was a spinster daughter of a clergyman. Later in the story some of the history is dumped into the novel and Devorah seems to adjust after reading a lot more. The history of Jewish life in Regency England is really interesting. I didn't understand why Devorah didn't compromise and eat to stay alive. Normally I would not advocate compromising one's beliefs but in an unfamiliar country, in an unfamiliar CENTURY, it seems prudent. It becomes clear that Devorah's not eating is part of the plot. Keeping kosher must have been incredibly difficult without modern conveniences that spout water, paper cups/plates and pre-packaged foods nicely labeled with K. Ten Oaks is a most unusual household and I really question the authenticity of inviting servants to dine. I also wondered why, if The Grand Sophy, is a favorite, why Devorah didn't address the anti-Semitism in the novel and indeed the fact that her favorite author was anti-Semitic.
There are a number of bizarre accidents in the story that just seem preposterous. The romantic plots are weak copies of Heryesque plots. I didn't really buy any of them. New characters are introduced in the third act, confusing the reader but making it easier to conclude the plot. The conclusion to the novel is completely baffling. What the heck? There are too many questions and loose ends that need resolving. Sometimes the historical characters sound too modern, like using the word feminist, which was not in use yet. Sometimes Devorah sounds historical. That I believe more than the other way around. Finally, the author uses the annoying "alright" when it should be two words "Are you all right?"
There are way too many characters in this novel. We have Devorah, whom I wanted to like her but I found her a little off-putting and whiny at times. I didn't understand why she wanted to wear Regency costume to the party. No one really understand the joke. Devorah's best friend is seriously annoying. If she is truly a best friend, she should know Devorah well enough by now to not attempt to fix Devorah up with any miscellaneous relations. The Regency plot is populated with nobility, clergy and servants. The principle characters are Adam, Duke of Ravenscroft, an honorable gentleman with a bit of a mean sense of humor. I like him because he's fair, kind and a philanthropist but he's cruel to keep Albinia hoping when she's getting too old to entertain other offers. He doesn't stand up to his mother either. Adam's younger brother Robert is "not in the petticoat line," he's still the immature younger brother who serves as a friend to Devorah. I like him better than Adam because he's honest about what he wants and doesn't want and because he seems to be the only one who fully takes Devorah at face value. The Duchess is straight out of the Heyerverse of overbearing Mamas. She tends to be a drama queen and isn't ready to let go of the reins of being in control of her children's' lives. Lady Felicity is a bit silly. She is immature still and doesn't really know what she wants. I find her a bit annoying and wearying.
Felicity is not as bad as Albinia. Albinia is based on Heyer's secondary females- the ones the hero courts because he's supposed to. She is pedantic, overly concerned with consequence and lacks a sense of humor. Yet, I feel a bit sorry for her because no one likes her and she doesn't understand it. She is only doing what she knows how to do to attract a man. She's too obvious, sure, but what choice does she have when Adam doesn't make the first move? Albinia is better suited to Lucas Duckwaithe, the Duchess's chaplain. He is based on Jane Austen's Mr. Collins. A self-serving, sycophantic, pompous fool with rotting teeth, Mr. Duckwaithe is not a good prospect. However, he does seem interested in Devorah's brain. He wants to discuss Biblical scholarship with her. The family at Ravenscroft is rounded out by young cousin Theo. Theo is a young scamp yet lacks the charm and humor of Heyer's young boys. He is entirely unnecessary and forgettable. Theo should have been left out.
The staff at Ravenscroft also play large roles here. Mrs. Wigmore, the housekeeper, is kind and caring but gossips a lot. Betsy, the maid, rises to the occasion when necessary, overcoming her youthful, silly romanticism. Even the Duchess's ladies' maid prefers Devorah to Albinia and acts on her feelings. Martha, Albinia's maid, has one major scene. I probably would not have used such a dramatic incident to illustrate the true natures of some of the characters. I don't understand how Jonathan knew what to do. It's obvious already he's kind and Albinia is a shrew. The introduction of Pierre or Armand, as he prefers to be called, is comical but also not necessary to the plot except to being in new characters.
At Ten Oaks, there are more characters to complicate the plot. Jonathan Whyteman is a paragon but also a mystery. He is friends with a Duke because they share an interest in philanthropy. Jonathan has some secrets. He shares one with Devorah but he remains mysterious. He is kind, caring and generous to everyone he meets. His servants are treated like family. Mrs. Fenton sounds like a wonderful cook and now I'm craving challah. I may have to go buy some on Friday and if I can't wait, the recipe is on the author's website. I've never heard of cholent but the introduction of the stew into the plot is funny and adds some interesting history. While these characters are easy to like, I doubt they are accurate for the time period, at least as far as being equals with their employer.
I don't believe the author should offer this book for sale and should really have written it for her own amusement and that of her family and friends. It's not horrendous but it's not that good. Georgette Heyer is probably rolling over in her grave to have her name associated with this book. (For other reasons as well, if you've read her biography).
This book is a hot mess. The prologue has nothing to do with the rest of the story and resembles nothing Georgette Heyer would write, at least not without the hero coming to the rescue. The beginning of the story describes life in the Orthodox neighborhood of Boro Park, New York. The author is Jewish but not from New York. As an outsider, I wonder if her depiction is accurate for modern day? It seems stereotypical and Devorah and her family make my nearest Orthodox neighbors look secular. I'd like to know what the women of Boro Park think of this novel. The culture does resemble Regency society somewhat but as a modern woman, Devorah has options. She has a successful career in business, her own apartment and the choice whether to marry or not. As she is soon to discover, Regency women did not have those options.
At first in seems as if Devorah (the author) has only cursory knowledge of Regency society gleaned from reading Georgette Heyer's novels. She doesn't seem to be as familiar with Jane Austen, despite the similarities in their societies. Jane's world is closer to Devorah's than Heyer's, since Jane was a spinster daughter of a clergyman. Later in the story some of the history is dumped into the novel and Devorah seems to adjust after reading a lot more. The history of Jewish life in Regency England is really interesting. I didn't understand why Devorah didn't compromise and eat to stay alive. Normally I would not advocate compromising one's beliefs but in an unfamiliar country, in an unfamiliar CENTURY, it seems prudent. It becomes clear that Devorah's not eating is part of the plot. Keeping kosher must have been incredibly difficult without modern conveniences that spout water, paper cups/plates and pre-packaged foods nicely labeled with K. Ten Oaks is a most unusual household and I really question the authenticity of inviting servants to dine. I also wondered why, if The Grand Sophy, is a favorite, why Devorah didn't address the anti-Semitism in the novel and indeed the fact that her favorite author was anti-Semitic.
There are a number of bizarre accidents in the story that just seem preposterous. The romantic plots are weak copies of Heryesque plots. I didn't really buy any of them. New characters are introduced in the third act, confusing the reader but making it easier to conclude the plot. The conclusion to the novel is completely baffling. What the heck? There are too many questions and loose ends that need resolving. Sometimes the historical characters sound too modern, like using the word feminist, which was not in use yet. Sometimes Devorah sounds historical. That I believe more than the other way around. Finally, the author uses the annoying "alright" when it should be two words "Are you all right?"
There are way too many characters in this novel. We have Devorah, whom I wanted to like her but I found her a little off-putting and whiny at times. I didn't understand why she wanted to wear Regency costume to the party. No one really understand the joke. Devorah's best friend is seriously annoying. If she is truly a best friend, she should know Devorah well enough by now to not attempt to fix Devorah up with any miscellaneous relations. The Regency plot is populated with nobility, clergy and servants. The principle characters are Adam, Duke of Ravenscroft, an honorable gentleman with a bit of a mean sense of humor. I like him because he's fair, kind and a philanthropist but he's cruel to keep Albinia hoping when she's getting too old to entertain other offers. He doesn't stand up to his mother either. Adam's younger brother Robert is "not in the petticoat line," he's still the immature younger brother who serves as a friend to Devorah. I like him better than Adam because he's honest about what he wants and doesn't want and because he seems to be the only one who fully takes Devorah at face value. The Duchess is straight out of the Heyerverse of overbearing Mamas. She tends to be a drama queen and isn't ready to let go of the reins of being in control of her children's' lives. Lady Felicity is a bit silly. She is immature still and doesn't really know what she wants. I find her a bit annoying and wearying.
Felicity is not as bad as Albinia. Albinia is based on Heyer's secondary females- the ones the hero courts because he's supposed to. She is pedantic, overly concerned with consequence and lacks a sense of humor. Yet, I feel a bit sorry for her because no one likes her and she doesn't understand it. She is only doing what she knows how to do to attract a man. She's too obvious, sure, but what choice does she have when Adam doesn't make the first move? Albinia is better suited to Lucas Duckwaithe, the Duchess's chaplain. He is based on Jane Austen's Mr. Collins. A self-serving, sycophantic, pompous fool with rotting teeth, Mr. Duckwaithe is not a good prospect. However, he does seem interested in Devorah's brain. He wants to discuss Biblical scholarship with her. The family at Ravenscroft is rounded out by young cousin Theo. Theo is a young scamp yet lacks the charm and humor of Heyer's young boys. He is entirely unnecessary and forgettable. Theo should have been left out.
The staff at Ravenscroft also play large roles here. Mrs. Wigmore, the housekeeper, is kind and caring but gossips a lot. Betsy, the maid, rises to the occasion when necessary, overcoming her youthful, silly romanticism. Even the Duchess's ladies' maid prefers Devorah to Albinia and acts on her feelings. Martha, Albinia's maid, has one major scene. I probably would not have used such a dramatic incident to illustrate the true natures of some of the characters. I don't understand how Jonathan knew what to do. It's obvious already he's kind and Albinia is a shrew. The introduction of Pierre or Armand, as he prefers to be called, is comical but also not necessary to the plot except to being in new characters.
At Ten Oaks, there are more characters to complicate the plot. Jonathan Whyteman is a paragon but also a mystery. He is friends with a Duke because they share an interest in philanthropy. Jonathan has some secrets. He shares one with Devorah but he remains mysterious. He is kind, caring and generous to everyone he meets. His servants are treated like family. Mrs. Fenton sounds like a wonderful cook and now I'm craving challah. I may have to go buy some on Friday and if I can't wait, the recipe is on the author's website. I've never heard of cholent but the introduction of the stew into the plot is funny and adds some interesting history. While these characters are easy to like, I doubt they are accurate for the time period, at least as far as being equals with their employer.
I don't believe the author should offer this book for sale and should really have written it for her own amusement and that of her family and friends. It's not horrendous but it's not that good. Georgette Heyer is probably rolling over in her grave to have her name associated with this book. (For other reasons as well, if you've read her biography).
October 29, 2022
3.5 out of 5 stars
July 4, 2019
Charming and satisfying- definitely checked a lot of my boxes! As an avid fan of all things Regency (Victorian, Edwardian...well, all things Period Drama) and having a strong affinity towards Jewish Historical Fiction, this was absolutely a must read for me. While I occasionally found myself being reminded of Mr. Collins, Caroline Bingely, and even Lady Catherine de Bourgh, I stopped and allowed the author and her characters to weave their own stories and create new images. I am Jewish; however, I am not Orthodox. That being said, I can greatly appreciate what the author tried to convey- and she did so with humor and creativity. "Me & Georgette" brings Regency and Yiddishkayt successfully into a "shiddach" and marries the two worlds beautifully. Filling a void for many Period readers, I believe the story line would resonate with a diverse audience, Jewish or not. Devorah's spirit and intelligence reminds one of many of our beloved Regency heroines. I couldn't wait to read the end, not because I was eager to set down the book, but rather I was dying of curiosity to see how the time-travel issue was dealt with...Jewishly. I won't give away any further details or spoilers. A delightful read! Mazal tov!
June 19, 2014
What a Fun book!
"She knew, then, what had come of reading too many Georgette Heyer novels."
Though I love Dr. Who and Back to the Future, I usually avoid time traveling romance books like they are loaded with transfats and over processed sugars. They cannot end satisfactorily for me. Someone in the timeline is going to suffer, even if it isn't the romantic couple, it is family or others left behind at one end of the time stream or another. When I want to read about paradoxes and continuums of historical necessity, I read science fiction. I can't take that kind of angst in a romance unless it is in the past or middle. I read romance for happily ever after. However, this book made me giggle like a debutante at the end.
Devorah is on the cusp of becoming a Special Case. Over thirty and unmarried, her cultural expectations aligned with her own [yeah! What a wonderful difference] but she wasn't willing to settle for less than her soul mate. So, when her best friend mentions a visiting cousin of her husband, Devorah is willing to take another chance he won't be more of a Special Case than she is. However, things don't go quite as planned.
Ms. Schaefer sneakily draws you in with four chapters of charming introduction to characters that presumably have little to do with the story. It reads like a resume of the Intelligentsia meets My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Still, I did feel the appropriate sympathetic connections intended by the prose and it was perfectly paced. Just as I was at the point of saying, what the heck has this got to do with- Devorah fell off a chair, smacked her head and everything went black. When she regains consciousness, it is March, 1815 and she's been discovered by a Duke.
“My dear child, you have met with a deplorable, unexplained accident, but you are now safe,” he explained in dramatic tones. “Fortunately, you have been rescued by his grace, the Duke of Ravenscroft. He has conveyed you back to his ducal seat at Ravenscourt, where you now find yourself. It is the Duke’s intention, I believe, for you to remain here under his protection until you have recovered sufficiently to return to your own home.”
I am not a member of the Intelligentsia. It was work for me to shift gears from loving friends and family to another place and time, complete with new characters and Important Statements. Needless to say, I survived. And before the middle of the chapter I was hooked. The characters were loving compilations of romance stories through the ages. The contrast of utterly familiar and completely unique conflicts and dilemmas tossed about by time displacement was a marvelous surprise from the expected complaints about hygiene, class conundrums, and feminist affronts. Devorah's sensibilities were so composed I was in awe from the very beginning of her alternate reality.
“Well, this is only conjecture,” she said baldly, “but apparently I fell off a chair and landed in the wrong century."
The writing was perfectly pitched for each time period. Dialog was period consistent, description just enough over the usual reader expectation to convince you Devorah is confronting the past with a future eye. Though it is work, she is able to fit in and present herself to all and sundry as if she belongs. Devorah making vermicelli and meatballs when the cook breaks her leg is a moment I will never, ever forget! And the joy here is how subtly it is all done. Devorah is constantly on alert for mistakes she might make even as she wows the evening's entertainment with her skill on the pianoforte and the ladies with her needlework. [If only all new writers of historical romance were as careful as Devorah]
Everyone falls in and out of infatuation just as they should. Though I fretted at several points, anticipating the end and that wail of, "Noooo," I'd be embarrassing myself with, the transitions and resolutions gentled my fears like a loving nanny, or they tried to. Ms. Schaefer kept just the right amount of tension going, at least for me. Younger brothers Robert and Theo were exceedingly well done; even the Duchess-desperate-to-be-a-Dowager made her way in to my heart.
I didn't think much of the expedient Duke and his usage of people to satisfy his sense of humor, no matter how convenient it was for those in need. But I have every hope that his future duchess will turn that table on him; more than adequately tempering his arrogance. Strangely, Albinia, the obligatory insipid miss, eventually obtained my sympathy. After all, she's destined to endure life - well, never mind, that would be a spoiler. My point is, the people in the alternate reality became as tangible as those in the family and friends in the beginning.
I did think the end was too abrupt. I wanted a bit more than a wink and I wanted much more of Mr. W [both incarnations of him] than we received. Otherwise, Ms. Schaefer certainly surprised me in a good way. I am so glad I was given the opportunity to read Me & Georgette. Totally recommend this book for an afternoon's escape or an evening's relaxation. It will make you laugh and sigh and grin. Best Part? No one gets left behind at the end. Promise!
Note~ I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Originally posted at Romance Reviews Magazine
"She knew, then, what had come of reading too many Georgette Heyer novels."
Though I love Dr. Who and Back to the Future, I usually avoid time traveling romance books like they are loaded with transfats and over processed sugars. They cannot end satisfactorily for me. Someone in the timeline is going to suffer, even if it isn't the romantic couple, it is family or others left behind at one end of the time stream or another. When I want to read about paradoxes and continuums of historical necessity, I read science fiction. I can't take that kind of angst in a romance unless it is in the past or middle. I read romance for happily ever after. However, this book made me giggle like a debutante at the end.
Devorah is on the cusp of becoming a Special Case. Over thirty and unmarried, her cultural expectations aligned with her own [yeah! What a wonderful difference] but she wasn't willing to settle for less than her soul mate. So, when her best friend mentions a visiting cousin of her husband, Devorah is willing to take another chance he won't be more of a Special Case than she is. However, things don't go quite as planned.
Ms. Schaefer sneakily draws you in with four chapters of charming introduction to characters that presumably have little to do with the story. It reads like a resume of the Intelligentsia meets My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Still, I did feel the appropriate sympathetic connections intended by the prose and it was perfectly paced. Just as I was at the point of saying, what the heck has this got to do with- Devorah fell off a chair, smacked her head and everything went black. When she regains consciousness, it is March, 1815 and she's been discovered by a Duke.
“My dear child, you have met with a deplorable, unexplained accident, but you are now safe,” he explained in dramatic tones. “Fortunately, you have been rescued by his grace, the Duke of Ravenscroft. He has conveyed you back to his ducal seat at Ravenscourt, where you now find yourself. It is the Duke’s intention, I believe, for you to remain here under his protection until you have recovered sufficiently to return to your own home.”
I am not a member of the Intelligentsia. It was work for me to shift gears from loving friends and family to another place and time, complete with new characters and Important Statements. Needless to say, I survived. And before the middle of the chapter I was hooked. The characters were loving compilations of romance stories through the ages. The contrast of utterly familiar and completely unique conflicts and dilemmas tossed about by time displacement was a marvelous surprise from the expected complaints about hygiene, class conundrums, and feminist affronts. Devorah's sensibilities were so composed I was in awe from the very beginning of her alternate reality.
“Well, this is only conjecture,” she said baldly, “but apparently I fell off a chair and landed in the wrong century."
The writing was perfectly pitched for each time period. Dialog was period consistent, description just enough over the usual reader expectation to convince you Devorah is confronting the past with a future eye. Though it is work, she is able to fit in and present herself to all and sundry as if she belongs. Devorah making vermicelli and meatballs when the cook breaks her leg is a moment I will never, ever forget! And the joy here is how subtly it is all done. Devorah is constantly on alert for mistakes she might make even as she wows the evening's entertainment with her skill on the pianoforte and the ladies with her needlework. [If only all new writers of historical romance were as careful as Devorah]
Everyone falls in and out of infatuation just as they should. Though I fretted at several points, anticipating the end and that wail of, "Noooo," I'd be embarrassing myself with, the transitions and resolutions gentled my fears like a loving nanny, or they tried to. Ms. Schaefer kept just the right amount of tension going, at least for me. Younger brothers Robert and Theo were exceedingly well done; even the Duchess-desperate-to-be-a-Dowager made her way in to my heart.
I didn't think much of the expedient Duke and his usage of people to satisfy his sense of humor, no matter how convenient it was for those in need. But I have every hope that his future duchess will turn that table on him; more than adequately tempering his arrogance. Strangely, Albinia, the obligatory insipid miss, eventually obtained my sympathy. After all, she's destined to endure life - well, never mind, that would be a spoiler. My point is, the people in the alternate reality became as tangible as those in the family and friends in the beginning.
I did think the end was too abrupt. I wanted a bit more than a wink and I wanted much more of Mr. W [both incarnations of him] than we received. Otherwise, Ms. Schaefer certainly surprised me in a good way. I am so glad I was given the opportunity to read Me & Georgette. Totally recommend this book for an afternoon's escape or an evening's relaxation. It will make you laugh and sigh and grin. Best Part? No one gets left behind at the end. Promise!
Note~ I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Originally posted at Romance Reviews Magazine
March 22, 2018
Brooklyn Meets Bronte in this Delightful Romp
Devorah Asher is a frum 21st century New York Yuppie with a problem of epic proportions: she's thirty-ish and single, and an avid reader of Regency Romance novels. Rounding out the mix she's been relegated to the "difficult case file" of every shadchan in Brooklyn. When a crack on the head leaves her out cold, Devorah is whisked back to the early 19th century and into the household of the very handsome, very charming Duke of Ravenscroft, which turns the entire household into chaos. There is a colorful cast of characters including but not limited to Spilsby the butler, the scheming Lady Albinia, and a dashing, debonair neighbor named Jonathan Whyteman who happens to be Jewish, which brings relief to Devorah's stomach, but not her heart, as Jonathan is everything she could want in a man—except he's in the wrong century. Written with grace, tact, and style, Ms. Schaefer creates a wonderful homage to Georgette Heyer without losing any of her heimishe Brooklyn panache.
Devorah Asher is a frum 21st century New York Yuppie with a problem of epic proportions: she's thirty-ish and single, and an avid reader of Regency Romance novels. Rounding out the mix she's been relegated to the "difficult case file" of every shadchan in Brooklyn. When a crack on the head leaves her out cold, Devorah is whisked back to the early 19th century and into the household of the very handsome, very charming Duke of Ravenscroft, which turns the entire household into chaos. There is a colorful cast of characters including but not limited to Spilsby the butler, the scheming Lady Albinia, and a dashing, debonair neighbor named Jonathan Whyteman who happens to be Jewish, which brings relief to Devorah's stomach, but not her heart, as Jonathan is everything she could want in a man—except he's in the wrong century. Written with grace, tact, and style, Ms. Schaefer creates a wonderful homage to Georgette Heyer without losing any of her heimishe Brooklyn panache.
June 8, 2014
Sometimes small details cause me to take off a star even though the book is excellent. Other times I fall in love with a book and am willing to overlook any potential problems.
An orthodox Jewish American woman, who loves to read Georgette Heyer novels, finds herself transported into Regency England. The premise is unbelievable, of course, but could it work? I was doubtful at first. But as I read on, I found myself absorbed in this story, which has been written and edited so well.
Yes, there were occasional lapses. Times when I thought, he wouldn't say that in that way. But by then I was in love with the book and it could do no wrong.
____________
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
An orthodox Jewish American woman, who loves to read Georgette Heyer novels, finds herself transported into Regency England. The premise is unbelievable, of course, but could it work? I was doubtful at first. But as I read on, I found myself absorbed in this story, which has been written and edited so well.
Yes, there were occasional lapses. Times when I thought, he wouldn't say that in that way. But by then I was in love with the book and it could do no wrong.
____________
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2016
Ugh, big disappointment. I have loved and read Georgette Heyer for 40 years, so I was very much expecting to enjoy this book. It started out really strongly for me, and if the jump back to Regency time hadn't happened I probably would have liked it. However, there were plot points that had huge holes, and while I really enjoyed the Jewish parts at the beginning, it just seemed forced in the Regency portion, and I kept thinking that Georgette Heyer would be turning in her grave if she read it. Also, the ending was ludicrous. I mildly enjoyed sections of it, but for the most part it was a huge disappointment.
May 20, 2014
I enjoyed reading this novel. Although I was confused by the time travel aspect, I found it delightful. The prose had a poetic feel, and the protagonist was someone I could relate too in a fun way. Her being Jewish definitely put a twist to the typical Regency themed novel. I think that is one of the aspects I liked the most about it.
Overall, it's a good, clean, entertaining romance for fans of Regency England. I hope to see more books by this start-up novelist! :)
Overall, it's a good, clean, entertaining romance for fans of Regency England. I hope to see more books by this start-up novelist! :)
March 10, 2020
I put this book on my Romance shelf, but perhaps this is more accurately described as a romantic farce. As the reader, I didn't feel like I spent enough time with any couple (and there were several) to feel the chemistry of the romance building. There wasn't enough time given to the time travel, either, and the ending was abrupt. Still, the only reason any of this bothered me was because I enjoyed reading about these characters and wanted more. I understand that this is the author's debut novel. If she writes another historical or a story set in the orthodox Jewish community, I would definitely give it a try.
June 8, 2020
Excellent Book
I had so much fun reading this book. As a rule, I don't normally read time travel fiction ...but I made an exception for this book and it didn't disappoint me at all. The ending is especially alot of fun. It's well-written, well-researched, has a diverting plot and well-rounded characters. I highly recommend it to you.
I had so much fun reading this book. As a rule, I don't normally read time travel fiction ...but I made an exception for this book and it didn't disappoint me at all. The ending is especially alot of fun. It's well-written, well-researched, has a diverting plot and well-rounded characters. I highly recommend it to you.
December 25, 2018
Fascinating and genre bending
I can't really say much about this book without giving things away. And I'm still not sure about a couple of details that require more thought. All of which is to say that this was an excellent book, well worth reading.
I can't really say much about this book without giving things away. And I'm still not sure about a couple of details that require more thought. All of which is to say that this was an excellent book, well worth reading.
February 1, 2019
A lovely book invoking the spirit of Georgette Heyer, with an unusual heroine who loves her books as much as I do. Thoroughly enjoyable!
January 28, 2015
Nearing thirty and unmarried, successful career girl, dutiful Orthodox Jewish daughter and Georgette Heyer fan Devorah Asher somewhat wearily caves into the urging of family to meet just one more eligible suitor. However, the little rebellious kink in Devorah’s filial piety makes her somewhat mischievously decide to go all the way with her Purim dress-up costume. No token clown wig or funny glasses for her – a full regency rig-out astonishes her family and appears to scare off her suitor. Mission accomplished – until she slips off a chair, breaks the precious Lenox china and also her head, and wakes up in a nineteenth century English countryside ditch.
The regency bucks (Heyer fans will see what I did there) who come to her rescue are debonair, but the daunting dowagers and designing damsels are all doomed to disappointment. With the extra problem of a very non-Kosher regency world in which poor Devorah has landed, she has a bundle of troubles compounded by suspicion and misunderstandings of all kinds, adding up to many amusing and increasingly ridiculous situations.
This quirky, entertaining tale of modern matchmaking mamas, put-upon daughters, Jewish orthodoxy and Georgette Heyer is an unusual but oddly successful mix. Told with brio and great good humour, it moves along briskly as Devorah’s plight becomes more and more outlandish. Is it a timeslip or just a concussed dream she has fallen into during her ill-fated Purim prank? We don’t know but, oh, the fun of weaving through it with Devorah.
This is a well formatted, good clean edit, and reads effortlessly (Two sittings). The author has an eye for the absurd and a nice turn of phrase – and knows her Heyer very well. The Heyer-esque tone occasionally wobbles with the odd modern Americanism slipping from regency lips and some behaviour possibly not quite the thing in a regency lady or gentleman. But then, anything that jars with the reader could just be part of a bizarre dream experience where anything can – and does – happen. There are a few laugh-out-loud moments, and the slippers and their final vital role were inspired.
As a long-time devotee of Heyer novels myself, I appreciated many of the little homages and in-jokes throughout the text, and found this a charming and diverting read. A prodigious bargain!
The regency bucks (Heyer fans will see what I did there) who come to her rescue are debonair, but the daunting dowagers and designing damsels are all doomed to disappointment. With the extra problem of a very non-Kosher regency world in which poor Devorah has landed, she has a bundle of troubles compounded by suspicion and misunderstandings of all kinds, adding up to many amusing and increasingly ridiculous situations.
This quirky, entertaining tale of modern matchmaking mamas, put-upon daughters, Jewish orthodoxy and Georgette Heyer is an unusual but oddly successful mix. Told with brio and great good humour, it moves along briskly as Devorah’s plight becomes more and more outlandish. Is it a timeslip or just a concussed dream she has fallen into during her ill-fated Purim prank? We don’t know but, oh, the fun of weaving through it with Devorah.
This is a well formatted, good clean edit, and reads effortlessly (Two sittings). The author has an eye for the absurd and a nice turn of phrase – and knows her Heyer very well. The Heyer-esque tone occasionally wobbles with the odd modern Americanism slipping from regency lips and some behaviour possibly not quite the thing in a regency lady or gentleman. But then, anything that jars with the reader could just be part of a bizarre dream experience where anything can – and does – happen. There are a few laugh-out-loud moments, and the slippers and their final vital role were inspired.
As a long-time devotee of Heyer novels myself, I appreciated many of the little homages and in-jokes throughout the text, and found this a charming and diverting read. A prodigious bargain!
May 9, 2014
Ms Shaefer has certainly managed to mimic Jane Austen’s style in this light and unusual romance. Her characterisation uses irony, humour and sparkling wit and a good dose of bitchiness to she show us the personalities of the society-obsessed women, whereas their menfolk seem totally immune to the rules of so called propriety.
The premise is interesting, in that a Georgette Heyer-obsessed young woman finds herself in that era with no explanation, or exit route. If this phenomenon happened to me, I would have been carted off to Bedlam with my ridiculous explanation of how I ended up in a field in only the clothes I stood up it.
Devorah however is not only taken into a Duke’s house, she is clothed, fed, treated like family and her story regarded as mildly amusing, and of course, she is welcome to stay as long as she likes. Not only that, the Jewish neighbour provides her with a portable larder of kosher food when she refuses to eat anything other than water, fruit and raw vegetables.
Somewhat implausible but fun. I like the fact Devorah played a Brahms tune on the pianoforte years before the man was born, together with the cringe worthy rudeness of the Duke’s mother which was worthy of any matriarch in an Austen novel.
However, the plot does get bogged down with the trivial and several times I asked myself where the story was going other than with endless spiteful conversations, descriptions of clothing, cooking, fires in bedrooms, plus injuries which enable Devorah to give implausible stories for not doing things.
Entertaining and well written, but it could have reached its inevitable conclusion a lot sooner.
I received an e-book copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review
The premise is interesting, in that a Georgette Heyer-obsessed young woman finds herself in that era with no explanation, or exit route. If this phenomenon happened to me, I would have been carted off to Bedlam with my ridiculous explanation of how I ended up in a field in only the clothes I stood up it.
Devorah however is not only taken into a Duke’s house, she is clothed, fed, treated like family and her story regarded as mildly amusing, and of course, she is welcome to stay as long as she likes. Not only that, the Jewish neighbour provides her with a portable larder of kosher food when she refuses to eat anything other than water, fruit and raw vegetables.
Somewhat implausible but fun. I like the fact Devorah played a Brahms tune on the pianoforte years before the man was born, together with the cringe worthy rudeness of the Duke’s mother which was worthy of any matriarch in an Austen novel.
However, the plot does get bogged down with the trivial and several times I asked myself where the story was going other than with endless spiteful conversations, descriptions of clothing, cooking, fires in bedrooms, plus injuries which enable Devorah to give implausible stories for not doing things.
Entertaining and well written, but it could have reached its inevitable conclusion a lot sooner.
I received an e-book copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review
May 2, 2014
"...[Devorah] would be exceptional if her thoughts did not fan that tiny spark into a small flame that hissed, on occasion, Maybe this time."
I enjoyed this novel. Finishing it in less than twenty-four hours, it's the quickest I've read a novel in quite some time. Much of the comedy in it reminded me of reading The Importance of Being Earnest. The mix of historical English and enduring Jewish culture with time travel was an interesting one.
“But I am not really a gentleman,” Jonathan said. “I am just a Jew.” I wasn't 100% sure if this comment was supposed to give me a little prick in my heart, but it did. Oh--and there just happened to be a boy named Reuven in the book: a personal bonus to me, as my interest in Jewish culture was heightened after reading The Chosen, even as there are different cultures within the culture, of course. Schaefer also gave much detail to the clothing and furnishings of the Regency period.
Admittedly, about a third of the way in, I wondered how the plot would sustain itself for an additional two thirds, and at some points during reading, I thought the story could have been told just as well in fewer words. However, I'm inclined to trust an author with his/her own storytelling, and it was worth reading all the way through. I was particularly touched by a comforting scene at Ten Oaks, and the climax of the story was satisfying indeed. I was thinking, "Wait, really, Schaefer, that's how you're going to...?"
And she did!
____________
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this novel. Finishing it in less than twenty-four hours, it's the quickest I've read a novel in quite some time. Much of the comedy in it reminded me of reading The Importance of Being Earnest. The mix of historical English and enduring Jewish culture with time travel was an interesting one.
“But I am not really a gentleman,” Jonathan said. “I am just a Jew.” I wasn't 100% sure if this comment was supposed to give me a little prick in my heart, but it did. Oh--and there just happened to be a boy named Reuven in the book: a personal bonus to me, as my interest in Jewish culture was heightened after reading The Chosen, even as there are different cultures within the culture, of course. Schaefer also gave much detail to the clothing and furnishings of the Regency period.
Admittedly, about a third of the way in, I wondered how the plot would sustain itself for an additional two thirds, and at some points during reading, I thought the story could have been told just as well in fewer words. However, I'm inclined to trust an author with his/her own storytelling, and it was worth reading all the way through. I was particularly touched by a comforting scene at Ten Oaks, and the climax of the story was satisfying indeed. I was thinking, "Wait, really, Schaefer, that's how you're going to...?"
And she did!
____________
I received a free copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
June 9, 2015
My sister introduced me to Georgette Heyer when we were both very young and I've never stopped reading regency romances. So when I saw this book I knew it was for me. It's a lovely story, well-written and in the style of Georgette Heyer. Devorah Asher is an Orthodox Jewess living in present day Brooklyn who is a huge fan of Heyer's books. When she falls and hits her head, she is transported back to the Regency era.
Every character is well-drawn and the plot resolves itself in true Heyer style. I've never read about Orthodox Judaism in a regency novel before, but the author incorporates it seamlessly. Well-done and bravo.
Every character is well-drawn and the plot resolves itself in true Heyer style. I've never read about Orthodox Judaism in a regency novel before, but the author incorporates it seamlessly. Well-done and bravo.
August 8, 2014
neither terrible, nor great. I'm not a huge aficionado of Heyer yet, but the author seemed to hit all of the tropes. As with other time travel regency novels, the heroine seems to feel no excitement at being in the world she supposedly is a fan of. I'm not sure why that is, but it bugs me a little. I also found the strictness of the Jewish laws as being more of a hindrance for the setting. reading the description for the book, I thought there would be some nice parallels between the marriage market in the two settings, but that was mostly ignored.
May 22, 2014
This was such a fun read! I like Regency Romance and this one was not your typical storyline. A modern, 21st century Jewish career woman is thrown into the past. What a mixed up event. If you like Regency, you'll love it. I give it 4 stars. I really liked it. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I can recommend this to everyone. No sexual content and no swearing.
June 9, 2014
I loved the book. I had to read all in one shot because the story line kept me going (ie what next would happen to Devorah). The book was definitely in the spirit of Georgette Heyer and I love her books. The book was easy reading and a lot of fun. Keep up the good work, can't wait to read the next book.
August 18, 2015
If you are a big Georgette Heyer fan, you will enjoy this book as much as I did. It is not an imitation Heyer story, more of an homage. Schaefer deftly handles the challenges of time travel, including whether to reveal the truth and how to get back. Very clever resolution. I liked this book very much and look forward to more from this writer.
June 28, 2014
This was a fun romp with a different take on a time jump story. As a Heyer aficionado, I picked it up with interest. I found the difficulties the heroine had in adhering to her Jewish religion in the Regency setting quite fascinating.
March 4, 2015
An exceptional read
I loved this book because it made me laugh a lot, because it reminded me of Georgette's books and she was my number one favorite for years, and because it was fun reading about the trials and triumphs of a Jewish woman in Regency England. It is good reading.
I loved this book because it made me laugh a lot, because it reminded me of Georgette's books and she was my number one favorite for years, and because it was fun reading about the trials and triumphs of a Jewish woman in Regency England. It is good reading.
June 27, 2015
Deborah or Dorothy?
Very amusing read and I thoroughly enjoyed the ending! The descriptions of the clothing was a real joy for me too.
Very amusing read and I thoroughly enjoyed the ending! The descriptions of the clothing was a real joy for me too.
June 11, 2014
Actual Rating: 3.5
Review to come...
Review to come...
August 1, 2014
Cute time travel regency period involving a jewish young lady.
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