What do you think?
Rate this book
Somerset Stories #6
The Governess and the Rogue
A down-on-her-luck Victorian governess and an unrepentant rogue enter into a fake engagement during a lengthy voyage at sea in USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews’s sixth book in her acclaimed Somerset Stories series.
Stranded in India after being dismissed without a reference, governess Beatrice Layton exchanges her freedom for passage home to England, taking a position with the only family that will hire her. But Bea hasn’t reckoned for just how dreadful her new employers will be. Stuck with them at sea in increasingly desperate circumstances, she finds an unlikely champion in the injured ex-soldier traveling aboard their ship.
Colonel Jack Beresford has spent the last fourteen years serving in Her Majesty’s Army. Though time has lent him maturity, it hasn’t dulled the roguish impulses of his youth. When he’s confronted with the tantalizing prospect of a damsel in distress, he naturally steps in to rescue her. His solution? An engagement of convenience, of course. One that will last only as long as their voyage.
But once back on land, Jack and Bea’s simple arrangement is beset by complication after complication. There are Bea’s horrid employers to contend with, and the growing gossip in Somerset society. Most complicated of all, there’s Jack’s family—his parents, siblings, and precocious nieces and nephews—all of whom seem to think that Bea might be perfect for him. Jack is beginning to think so too. All that remains is to convince bold, beguiling Bea that he’s perfect for her.
Stranded in India after being dismissed without a reference, governess Beatrice Layton exchanges her freedom for passage home to England, taking a position with the only family that will hire her. But Bea hasn’t reckoned for just how dreadful her new employers will be. Stuck with them at sea in increasingly desperate circumstances, she finds an unlikely champion in the injured ex-soldier traveling aboard their ship.
Colonel Jack Beresford has spent the last fourteen years serving in Her Majesty’s Army. Though time has lent him maturity, it hasn’t dulled the roguish impulses of his youth. When he’s confronted with the tantalizing prospect of a damsel in distress, he naturally steps in to rescue her. His solution? An engagement of convenience, of course. One that will last only as long as their voyage.
But once back on land, Jack and Bea’s simple arrangement is beset by complication after complication. There are Bea’s horrid employers to contend with, and the growing gossip in Somerset society. Most complicated of all, there’s Jack’s family—his parents, siblings, and precocious nieces and nephews—all of whom seem to think that Bea might be perfect for him. Jack is beginning to think so too. All that remains is to convince bold, beguiling Bea that he’s perfect for her.
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2025
86 people are currently reading
764 people want to read
About the author
Mimi Matthews
23 books4,363 followersUSA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning historical romance, including Rules for Ruin, a Kirkus, NYPL, NPR, Library Journal, BookPage, and Marie Claire Best Book of 2025; The Siren of Sussex, a 2023 RUSA Reading List shortlist pick for Best Romance; Fair as a Star, a Library Journal Best Romance of 2020; Gentleman Jim, a Kirkus Best Book of 2020; and The Work of Art, winner of the 2020 HOLT Medallion and a 2021 Daphne du Maurier Award nominee. Her novels have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus, BookPage, and Shelf Awareness, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine.
In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes an Andalusian dressage horse, a miniature poodle, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
**I only rate the books I love.**
In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes an Andalusian dressage horse, a miniature poodle, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
**I only rate the books I love.**
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews
August 9, 2025
The Governess and the Rogue by Mimi Matthews is number six in the Somerset Stories, and could be read as a standalone. If you have read the other books in the series, you will enjoy visiting with past characters and catching up.
Beatrice Layton is a governess who has had a rough time. The final straw is losing her position on the ship she is sailing on to England from India. Colonel Jack Beresford has been serving in Her Majesty’s Army until he was injured severely and is now coming back to England though he is still hotly pursued by women for his family’s wealth and status. The two decide an engagement of convenience may help them both while on the ship.
The Governess and the Rogue was a beautifully written story and I was very invested in the characters. Beatrice and Jack had amazing banter, wonderful chemistry, and romantic tension. I loved how they helped each other to see the best in themselves. The historical details in the story painted a picture of the time and helped me to immerse myself in the book. I was so drawn into the story and my only complaint was that the story and series ended.
There is nothing quite like a Mimi Matthews story to bring you joy, help you believe there is good in the world, and appreciate sweet romance. This clean story is one you do not want to miss. I highly recommend The Governess and the Rogue by Mimi Matthews.
I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.
Beatrice Layton is a governess who has had a rough time. The final straw is losing her position on the ship she is sailing on to England from India. Colonel Jack Beresford has been serving in Her Majesty’s Army until he was injured severely and is now coming back to England though he is still hotly pursued by women for his family’s wealth and status. The two decide an engagement of convenience may help them both while on the ship.
The Governess and the Rogue was a beautifully written story and I was very invested in the characters. Beatrice and Jack had amazing banter, wonderful chemistry, and romantic tension. I loved how they helped each other to see the best in themselves. The historical details in the story painted a picture of the time and helped me to immerse myself in the book. I was so drawn into the story and my only complaint was that the story and series ended.
There is nothing quite like a Mimi Matthews story to bring you joy, help you believe there is good in the world, and appreciate sweet romance. This clean story is one you do not want to miss. I highly recommend The Governess and the Rogue by Mimi Matthews.
I was given a complimentary copy and not required to write a positive review.
August 9, 2025
Loved it! I already want to reread it. I do love a reformed rake character. And the shipboard setting in the first half was so fun. I love the theme of looking at the stars. I like how the engagement of convenience slowly changed. And so fun to see all the old Heywood and Beresford characters in the second half! I really hope Mimi does write a third generation story. All the children were fun. The tea party. 😂
December 16, 2025
I became disenchanted with Historical Romance some years ago but I still love Mimi Mathews’s books. This is the sixth and final book in her
Somerset Stories
series
Jack Beresford was once a carefree young man with a fondness for indulging in all manner of pranks. Now, after serving fourteen years in Her Majesty’s service, he’s very much a changed man, both physically and mentally. Having suffered a severe leg injury, which almost cost him his life, he’s now forced to walk with stick. Having been invalided out of the army, he is returning home by ship to England. His experiences in the army have left him totally adrift with no sense of purpose, but a chance meeting on the deck of the ship one evening will change the course of his life.
Beatrice (Bea) Layton has been a governess in India since the age of seventeen, forced to fend for herself after her mother died. She has had numerous positions but they’ve never lasted long due to her outspokenness. Seeing the dwindling opportunities in India, she is returning to England in the hope of gaining a position there. Not having the wherewithal to pay for her ticket, she’s agreed to take care of the obnoxious Mr. and Mrs Dimsdale’s four atrociously behaved children, in return for her passage. She is unaware that a chance meeting on the deck of the ship one evening will change her life forever.
Jack and Bea are such a lovely couple and watching their romance slowly unfold was a delight. I could feel their relationship changing as they grew to know and trust each other. At first, Jack sees only a rather plain and drab young woman but gradually comes to realise that, although not conventionally beautiful, Bea is attractive and also strong-willed, something he admires in a woman.
With no family or friends, Bea has never had anyone who cared about her or stood up for her. So I love how protective Jack is towards Bea - how he steps in when she is being accosted by a drunken Mr Dimsdale or being confronted by a domineering Mrs Dimsdale. The latter scene has one of my favourite moments…
”Can I be of assistance?” Jack inquired.
“How very gallant of you to offer,” Mrs. Dimsdale replied with a girlish titter. “I would be—”
“I wasn’t asking you, ma’am,” Jack said. “I was asking Miss Layton.”
Bea is unsure about the fake engagement but Jack persuades her that it will be beneficial to her because she will be under his protection and also she’ll be his defence against the formidable Mrs Farraday, who is determined to trap him into marriage with her daughter. It was satisfying to see how his reckless idea had given some sense of purpose to his life again with Bea’s support.
It’s obvious that Jack and Bea are falling in love but both are afraid to admit it for fear the other doesn’t feel the same. Their plans to go separate ways when they reach Southampton are wrecked when James, Jack’s eldest brother and his wife, Hannah, are there to meet them!
It was lovely seeing all the characters from the previous books together with their children. It felt like catching up with old friends. I love how Jack’s family accepted Bea with open arms and the scenes between Bea and the children are absolutely delightful. Of course, with a little help from the family, Jack and Bea finally get their Happy Ever
I’m not proposing any of that. I’m simply…” She looked at him fully. “What?” He offered her a brief, lopsided smile. “Proposing.”
Ms. Matthews treats us to a charming Epilogue too.
It was a surprise to see one of the characters from her Parish Orphans of Devon series make an appearance in this book.
This was a delightful ending (or perhaps not, if you read the Author’s Note) to what has been a wonderful series which I can definitely recommend.
Jack Beresford was once a carefree young man with a fondness for indulging in all manner of pranks. Now, after serving fourteen years in Her Majesty’s service, he’s very much a changed man, both physically and mentally. Having suffered a severe leg injury, which almost cost him his life, he’s now forced to walk with stick. Having been invalided out of the army, he is returning home by ship to England. His experiences in the army have left him totally adrift with no sense of purpose, but a chance meeting on the deck of the ship one evening will change the course of his life.
Beatrice (Bea) Layton has been a governess in India since the age of seventeen, forced to fend for herself after her mother died. She has had numerous positions but they’ve never lasted long due to her outspokenness. Seeing the dwindling opportunities in India, she is returning to England in the hope of gaining a position there. Not having the wherewithal to pay for her ticket, she’s agreed to take care of the obnoxious Mr. and Mrs Dimsdale’s four atrociously behaved children, in return for her passage. She is unaware that a chance meeting on the deck of the ship one evening will change her life forever.
Jack and Bea are such a lovely couple and watching their romance slowly unfold was a delight. I could feel their relationship changing as they grew to know and trust each other. At first, Jack sees only a rather plain and drab young woman but gradually comes to realise that, although not conventionally beautiful, Bea is attractive and also strong-willed, something he admires in a woman.
With no family or friends, Bea has never had anyone who cared about her or stood up for her. So I love how protective Jack is towards Bea - how he steps in when she is being accosted by a drunken Mr Dimsdale or being confronted by a domineering Mrs Dimsdale. The latter scene has one of my favourite moments…
”Can I be of assistance?” Jack inquired.
“How very gallant of you to offer,” Mrs. Dimsdale replied with a girlish titter. “I would be—”
“I wasn’t asking you, ma’am,” Jack said. “I was asking Miss Layton.”
Bea is unsure about the fake engagement but Jack persuades her that it will be beneficial to her because she will be under his protection and also she’ll be his defence against the formidable Mrs Farraday, who is determined to trap him into marriage with her daughter. It was satisfying to see how his reckless idea had given some sense of purpose to his life again with Bea’s support.
It’s obvious that Jack and Bea are falling in love but both are afraid to admit it for fear the other doesn’t feel the same. Their plans to go separate ways when they reach Southampton are wrecked when James, Jack’s eldest brother and his wife, Hannah, are there to meet them!
It was lovely seeing all the characters from the previous books together with their children. It felt like catching up with old friends. I love how Jack’s family accepted Bea with open arms and the scenes between Bea and the children are absolutely delightful. Of course, with a little help from the family, Jack and Bea finally get their Happy Ever
I’m not proposing any of that. I’m simply…” She looked at him fully. “What?” He offered her a brief, lopsided smile. “Proposing.”
Ms. Matthews treats us to a charming Epilogue too.
It was a surprise to see one of the characters from her Parish Orphans of Devon series make an appearance in this book.
This was a delightful ending (or perhaps not, if you read the Author’s Note) to what has been a wonderful series which I can definitely recommend.
August 25, 2025
August 25th 2025: oh my GOD!!! 5 out of 5 stars 🌟 ⭐️ ✨⭐️ 🌟 Mimi Matthews just wrote another holy-shelf worthy book!!! The way these were like so many of my favourite tropes all packed into one. Beatrice (Bea) was absolutely adorable🥹🥹 and really everything I look for in a heroine. And then whenever I see historical romance with majesty’s army, sign me up!! Jack. JACK!! Our HANDSOME colonel. Our ROGUISH colonel. I blushed. Many times. If I get one whiff of Captain Wentworth I’m gone, so naturally, I was gone for Jack.
I preordered the ebook to read it, and now I’m literally ordering the physical copy because I need to TAB this book up!!! Honestly has this become my favourite of the series?? I think so😍🥹🥹 everything that historical romance should be and more, so I’m so grateful that we have Mimi Matthews to give us these characters and their romances.
August 8th 2025: Oh my goodness this was so perfect 🥹🥰😭🩷 an easy 5/5 stars✨ review to come this week when I finish another chapter of my dissertation!!
I preordered the ebook to read it, and now I’m literally ordering the physical copy because I need to TAB this book up!!! Honestly has this become my favourite of the series?? I think so😍🥹🥹 everything that historical romance should be and more, so I’m so grateful that we have Mimi Matthews to give us these characters and their romances.
August 8th 2025: Oh my goodness this was so perfect 🥹🥰😭🩷 an easy 5/5 stars✨ review to come this week when I finish another chapter of my dissertation!!
July 18, 2025
This series has been an absolute delight, containing some of my favorites of Mimi's books! I loved finally getting Jack's stoy, and appreciated that it takes place several years later after he has matured into a man, as well as the full circle moments of seeing all the families' happily ever afters together.
Jack is a distinguished soldier, wounded and returning from war - as well as trying to escape a rather ruthless mama bent on trapping him in marriage with her daughter! While traveling incognito he meets Bea, a spirited nanny to a cruel family heading quickly towards losing her position. He proposes a scheme to help them both - faking an engagement until they reach England, where they can amicably part ways. But they aren't expecting to be greeted by his family, and their enthusiasm for the match!
These characters had such a sweet journey towards each other. Jack both recognized and drew out Bea's spirit, while matching it with his own. Bea had no family, and had never really belonged - until she met Jack's noble but unconventional family of love matches (and even some former scandals). There was such warmth, tenderness and humor to their love story, and a truly satisfying conclusion to the whole! I'm sad to say goodbye to the characters - but that just means a reread is in order ;)
Jack is a distinguished soldier, wounded and returning from war - as well as trying to escape a rather ruthless mama bent on trapping him in marriage with her daughter! While traveling incognito he meets Bea, a spirited nanny to a cruel family heading quickly towards losing her position. He proposes a scheme to help them both - faking an engagement until they reach England, where they can amicably part ways. But they aren't expecting to be greeted by his family, and their enthusiasm for the match!
These characters had such a sweet journey towards each other. Jack both recognized and drew out Bea's spirit, while matching it with his own. Bea had no family, and had never really belonged - until she met Jack's noble but unconventional family of love matches (and even some former scandals). There was such warmth, tenderness and humor to their love story, and a truly satisfying conclusion to the whole! I'm sad to say goodbye to the characters - but that just means a reread is in order ;)
Want to read
March 8, 2025Can’t wait 😍
July 31, 2025
The Governess and the Rogue is a beautiful conclusion to the Somerset Stories series. You can jump in and enjoy this book as a stand alone, too, however if you have been reading the earlier books in the series, you are in for a treat when all of the family members make appearances in this tale.
I loved the slow burn between Jack and Bea. The fact that Jack has no intention of settling down in marriage, yet comes to the aid of Bea very early on in the story is so telling. Even as these two struggle to keep their interactions impersonal, they grow to depend on each other and share with each other in ways that they have never done with anyone else.
I loved seeing the way Jack began to fall for Bea. The way he treated her was so sweet. Even the way he ended up introducing her at one point, saying, “Everyone, this is my Bea” made me so happy. I also really enjoyed seeing the way Jack’s family treated Bea, as well as they way they were thrilled to have Jack home from his military service. I loved this story from start to finish and am so happy that the author wrote these additional Somerset Stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved the slow burn between Jack and Bea. The fact that Jack has no intention of settling down in marriage, yet comes to the aid of Bea very early on in the story is so telling. Even as these two struggle to keep their interactions impersonal, they grow to depend on each other and share with each other in ways that they have never done with anyone else.
I loved seeing the way Jack began to fall for Bea. The way he treated her was so sweet. Even the way he ended up introducing her at one point, saying, “Everyone, this is my Bea” made me so happy. I also really enjoyed seeing the way Jack’s family treated Bea, as well as they way they were thrilled to have Jack home from his military service. I loved this story from start to finish and am so happy that the author wrote these additional Somerset Stories.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
August 7, 2025
My favorite in the series. :)
September 14, 2025
4.5🌟 Mimi is such a five star writer & this was such a satisfying conclusion to one of my favorite family series ever.🩷🩷🩷 That said, when it came to the love story between Jack & Bea I wish there had been a bit more spark. I really liked the two characters but needed them to have a bit more screen time to see their (specifically Jack’s) feelings develop. This story was a yummy snack while some of the others in the series are full course meals. 😉 Lovely lovely book though. A light, low stakes read. 🩷 I wish this series would never end!!
July 6, 2025
What a joy it is to read another lovely histficrom by this favorite author. Her latest, the final book in the beloved Somerset Stories series, brings together an unlikely couple-- struggling Victorian governess Beatrice Layton and Colonel Jack Beresford, a seasoned soldier who looks "road hard and put away wet" after 14 years serving in Her Majesty’s Army.
But he has watched the abuse she has received from the family she has served as governess during an arduous ocean trip from India to England. Ever gallant, he offers her a solution to save her: A fake engagement just for the length of the trip.
And given that this is a Mimi Matthews romance, I knew this "solution" would turn into a delightful slow-burn relationship that evolves into much much more.
~~
“Jack bent his head to hers; closer, closer. Heaven knew what he was thinking. Nothing, very likely. He seemed to be operating purely on instinct. Masculine instinct, driven by the moon and the stars, and how surprisingly lovely Bea was beneath them in the shawl that had so obviously been meant for her.
“Are they likely to come true, these wishes you make?” he asked.
Her lashes lowered. “One of them already has,” she confessed.
And he kissed her.”
~~
“Bea’s eyes fell closed as her lips yielded to his. She brought her hands to his chest. They slid up to his shoulders as she kissed him back. Her pulse was surging, and her heart was as full as it had ever been. Full of hope and possibility. And love.”
~~
Hurrah! I wasn't disappointed. Histficrom fans and lovers of Mimi's exquisite clean romance novels will love it too. Highly recommended!
But he has watched the abuse she has received from the family she has served as governess during an arduous ocean trip from India to England. Ever gallant, he offers her a solution to save her: A fake engagement just for the length of the trip.
And given that this is a Mimi Matthews romance, I knew this "solution" would turn into a delightful slow-burn relationship that evolves into much much more.
~~
“Jack bent his head to hers; closer, closer. Heaven knew what he was thinking. Nothing, very likely. He seemed to be operating purely on instinct. Masculine instinct, driven by the moon and the stars, and how surprisingly lovely Bea was beneath them in the shawl that had so obviously been meant for her.
“Are they likely to come true, these wishes you make?” he asked.
Her lashes lowered. “One of them already has,” she confessed.
And he kissed her.”
~~
“Bea’s eyes fell closed as her lips yielded to his. She brought her hands to his chest. They slid up to his shoulders as she kissed him back. Her pulse was surging, and her heart was as full as it had ever been. Full of hope and possibility. And love.”
~~
Hurrah! I wasn't disappointed. Histficrom fans and lovers of Mimi's exquisite clean romance novels will love it too. Highly recommended!
July 4, 2025
Mimi Matthews never misses. This book is so good. I’m a sucker for a marriage, or in this case engagement, of convenience and Matthews always writes it so well. I love how she’s able to write such strong heroines while also keeping them soft and romantic. I’m also a sucker for a hardened ex military man so this book was my cup of tea.
August 7, 2025
Oh how I have loved The Somerset Stories series!!! I was sad to learn that this is the final book but I can tell you that my heart was soooo happy as I read it. It was a beautiful and fitting tribute to the series. And can I say that it was wonderful reading Jack Beresford's story! If you've been reading the series, you're going to love it. Your heart is going to be soaring and feeling all of the emotions!
Beatrice's story will have your heart aching and cheering for all at the same time! I loved her unlikely champion and their meetings. I didn't care at all for the family she was being a governess for. Nope, nope, nope, NOPE!!! You'll have to read it to understand, but I'm pretty confident that most readers will feel the same way.
That moment that we all truly get to see Jack, oh my! It was perfect. In modern terms it was a mic-drop moment! *Smirks* My heart is just soaring over Bea and Jack! I loved all the talk about family and friendship. I loved seeing all of Jack's family and their goodness and love. Like I said earlier, this book is very fitting tribute to the whole series and readers who've read them all will love it!
I cried. I swooned. I sighed. I was moved by emotions and filled with joy over this book! Definitely a must read!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some sweet kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Beatrice's story will have your heart aching and cheering for all at the same time! I loved her unlikely champion and their meetings. I didn't care at all for the family she was being a governess for. Nope, nope, nope, NOPE!!! You'll have to read it to understand, but I'm pretty confident that most readers will feel the same way.
That moment that we all truly get to see Jack, oh my! It was perfect. In modern terms it was a mic-drop moment! *Smirks* My heart is just soaring over Bea and Jack! I loved all the talk about family and friendship. I loved seeing all of Jack's family and their goodness and love. Like I said earlier, this book is very fitting tribute to the whole series and readers who've read them all will love it!
I cried. I swooned. I sighed. I was moved by emotions and filled with joy over this book! Definitely a must read!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Some sweet kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
October 16, 2025
While I adored Jack and Bea as individual characters, I found myself wishing for a bit more spark between them. Their love story had potential, but I craved more time on the page—especially to see Jack’s emotions unfold with greater depth. The Governess and the Rogue offers a beautiful and satisfying conclusion to the Somerset Stories series, which I’ve loved from the start.The Work of Art The Work of Art remains one of my all-time favorites from Mimi’s collection.
It was such a joy to revisit familiar faces and beloved families from earlier books. Bea is an endearing heroine—gentle, sincere, and quietly strong. And what begins as a fake engagement soon blossoms into something far more meaningful. Jack, ever resolute, proves to be a hero Bea simply can’t resist.
The story can be read on its own, but I recommend reading the earlier books to understand the returning characters. A beautiful story, with charming settings, delightful characters, and a touch of whimsy, this story wraps up the series with warmth and grace.
It was such a joy to revisit familiar faces and beloved families from earlier books. Bea is an endearing heroine—gentle, sincere, and quietly strong. And what begins as a fake engagement soon blossoms into something far more meaningful. Jack, ever resolute, proves to be a hero Bea simply can’t resist.
The story can be read on its own, but I recommend reading the earlier books to understand the returning characters. A beautiful story, with charming settings, delightful characters, and a touch of whimsy, this story wraps up the series with warmth and grace.
August 8, 2025
These Somerset stories are a little gifts from Mimi Matthews to her readers. Not only do we get the last of the children married off, we get to see Thornhill, Tom, Finchley, and Neville along the way. The epilogue brings all of the characters together, including both sets of parents. You see the third generation of these families and a passel of dogs as well.
On top of this gorgeous story full of sweetness and longing, we also get a little hint that perhaps the third generation will have their moment in the future.
On top of this gorgeous story full of sweetness and longing, we also get a little hint that perhaps the third generation will have their moment in the future.
November 10, 2025
I've loved this series! I'm sad it's come to an end, but it was a charming conclusion. <3
September 17, 2025
“The Governess and the Rogue” is the sixth book in the “Somerset Stories” series by Mimi Matthews. I love this whole series so much (“Gentleman Jim” is one of my favorites of Mimi’s books). It was so good to be back with beloved characters and families from the previous books in the series. I loved seeing Jack’s love story play out on a ship with a governess named Beatrice. Beatrice unexpectedly loses her job and needs help, and Jack has the perfect solution: a marriage of convenience. But when they spend more time together and sparks fly, will their marriage of convenience turn into one of love on both sides? I enjoyed seeing Jack again as a more mature character who had spent many years in the army since the last book. We even get a brief appearance of Justin Thornhill from Mimi’s book “The Matrimonial Advertisement.” Through Beatrice’s character, the reader sees the realities of being a governess and how few rights they had and how poorly treated they were at that time. Readers will love Bea’s courage and forthrightness. I appreciate that Ms. Matthews is not afraid to show the dark aspects of the expansion of the Empire. Colonial Jack Beresford lost himself and his sense of purpose after his time in the army and dealing with chronic pain. When he meets Bea on a ship, he is still recovering from surgery and needing a cane. Jack is so kind and caring. I love the romance between the two and especially seeing them meet Jack’s family. I really hope that Mimi will write more books in this series because I am not ready for it to be over!
Content: I give this book a PG rating. Some examples of the content: the words “da*n” and “bloody hell” are used; mention of someone drinking a lot and gambling; mention of prostitutes and a harlot; the Lord’s name is taken in vain; someone was allegedly illegitimate and called a bastard.
TW: possible depression; attempted assault (not successful); orphan; past torture; stalker.
Content: I give this book a PG rating. Some examples of the content: the words “da*n” and “bloody hell” are used; mention of someone drinking a lot and gambling; mention of prostitutes and a harlot; the Lord’s name is taken in vain; someone was allegedly illegitimate and called a bastard.
TW: possible depression; attempted assault (not successful); orphan; past torture; stalker.
July 20, 2025
4.5 stars!
RTC
RTC
August 3, 2025
I already love the Somerset Stories series so much, and this is such a lovely addition. I really enjoyed reading The Governess and the Rogue and couldn't put it down, which, of course, made the book feel too short, so I'll definitely have to reread it again and again. Bea and Jack are just so lovely together.
I always love any sort of forced proximity storyline, and Jack and Bea's fake engagement provided the perfect backdrop for them to get to know each other better. It was also incredibly entertaining and heartwarming to see how quickly Bea protected Jack from those scheming to entrap him.
It also struck me how precarious life was for those without money or relations in the world at this time period. Even if our current social safety nets are compromised, women today have so many more options available to them. And Bea is so strong and fiery and passionate. I loved seeing her come alive throughout the novel.
Jack is also splendid. While he definitely plays the knight in shining armour to rescue Bea, his wrestle to overcome his own vulnerabilities, and also his inability to see his true worth, finds healing and support from Bea. They are two lost souls who have found each other and helped each other.
It was also very lovely to see the family come together, and to see the mulitigenerational family all finding their happily ever afters. Bea fits into the Beresford-Heywood clan so well. It was pure sweetness watching all the family scenes.
It is sad to see this series come to an end, but it was a sweet and satisfying ending. I, of course, would never complain if we were able to have more stories about these lovely families.
The Governess and the Rogue comes out on 5 August, 2025. Pre-order now! Thank you to Mimi Matthews and Perfectly Proper Press for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I always love any sort of forced proximity storyline, and Jack and Bea's fake engagement provided the perfect backdrop for them to get to know each other better. It was also incredibly entertaining and heartwarming to see how quickly Bea protected Jack from those scheming to entrap him.
It also struck me how precarious life was for those without money or relations in the world at this time period. Even if our current social safety nets are compromised, women today have so many more options available to them. And Bea is so strong and fiery and passionate. I loved seeing her come alive throughout the novel.
Jack is also splendid. While he definitely plays the knight in shining armour to rescue Bea, his wrestle to overcome his own vulnerabilities, and also his inability to see his true worth, finds healing and support from Bea. They are two lost souls who have found each other and helped each other.
It was also very lovely to see the family come together, and to see the mulitigenerational family all finding their happily ever afters. Bea fits into the Beresford-Heywood clan so well. It was pure sweetness watching all the family scenes.
It is sad to see this series come to an end, but it was a sweet and satisfying ending. I, of course, would never complain if we were able to have more stories about these lovely families.
The Governess and the Rogue comes out on 5 August, 2025. Pre-order now! Thank you to Mimi Matthews and Perfectly Proper Press for this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2025
Oh, how I enjoy this author's books! She is so gifted in writing romance. This series has been such a pleasure to read!! This story features Jack Beresford, the youngest son of Lord and Lady Allendale. He meets a governess on a ship home from India and proposes an engagement of convenience for both their sakes. I had a smile on my face the whole time I read it. With so many characters from previous books, it felt like coming home. If you want a sweet, feel-good story that makes you smile from the first page to the last, then you need this in your life. I certainly hope Ms. Matthews will continue this series.
September 21, 2025
Delightful, dear, and sweet! It's the fake engagement story I was longing for with Jack -- all grown up but still a playful spirit at his core. Bea meets him step for step, a little timid at first but assertive and "starchy" at heart. I loved the adventurous steamship setting for part of the story that reminded me of the travels of Tom and Jenny in A Modest Independence. Readers of that series, too, will see a great cameo of Capt Thornhill on his return to England after service in India. All of the Beresfords and Heywoods make an appearance in a picture-perfect ending that emphasizes Mimi's endearing way of writing family banter & dynamics.
August 5, 2025
Another lovely addition to this charming historical fiction series. Mimi Matthews has an incredible talent for taking even the riskiest tropes and turning them into heartwarming stories – in this case, a fake engagement trope. Jack has always been a well-loved character of mine, and it was delightful to see him as a fully grown adult, carrying both experience and some difficult baggage. Bea might be the most relatable of Mimi’s heroines for me, and I really loved how resilient she was and how unwilling to accept injustice. Following their journey was a joy. On top of that, we get a reunion with characters from the previous books and a glimpse of their HEA. Once again, I only wish the book had been longer, so we could have spent more time with the Beresfords and the Heywoods.
August 9, 2025
Loved this quick, final glimpse into the Somerset families! Jack is just lovely, and Bea is tough and strong in all the best ways.
August 16, 2025
So maybe I had DNFed 3 historical romances before letting myself pick up this new release. So maybe I shouldn’t make myself wait when Mimi Matthews drops a new book because I know she writes the HR I love.
ALL OF THAT ASIDE:
The start of this novella was the strongest in the second-gen series for me. With a time-jump and setting away from Somersetshire, this felt like a new and fresh story in the universe instead of a sweet fan-service Romance (that Matthews says the kids stories are anyways) where the plots and characters could have been interchangeable. Here, there was more depth to be found within the characters of Jack and Bea, a grittier setting (a sea voyage from India to England), and historical context (that Matthews excels at).
My one complaint is that this felt like it could be a full novel and it read as such for the first half, but then the Romance really had to Romance with the limited page-count, and the ending seemed rather abrupt.
(And I loved that this ended up connected to The Parish Orphans series because I am a sucker for the Mimi-verse.)
ALL OF THAT ASIDE:
The start of this novella was the strongest in the second-gen series for me. With a time-jump and setting away from Somersetshire, this felt like a new and fresh story in the universe instead of a sweet fan-service Romance (that Matthews says the kids stories are anyways) where the plots and characters could have been interchangeable. Here, there was more depth to be found within the characters of Jack and Bea, a grittier setting (a sea voyage from India to England), and historical context (that Matthews excels at).
My one complaint is that this felt like it could be a full novel and it read as such for the first half, but then the Romance really had to Romance with the limited page-count, and the ending seemed rather abrupt.
(And I loved that this ended up connected to The Parish Orphans series because I am a sucker for the Mimi-verse.)
August 9, 2025
“His offhand words were possessed of an insidious power. They settled somewhere in Bea’s heart, warm and deep. A romance in the moonlight, under the stars. A product, perhaps, of all those futile wishes she’d made. Wishes for a better life. A purpose. Something–anything–that would bring her true happiness.”
As usual, I was completely smitten and captivated by this 6th installment in the Somerset Stories series, and I feel like it can stand alone.
Bea and Jack have the sweetest story and it was stuffed full of all the things I adore. Both have been in India and both are returning to England. A meeting on the ship leads to a fake engagement to benefit each of them, but honestly–who in the world can resist Jack?! I, for one, was immediately infatuated with him and his magnetic, caring, and impulsive ways, but I truly appreciated the way it affected Bea. Even with the chance to tell the truth, this act continued and the chemistry sizzled delightfully. I could see why he was chased incessantly.
Poignant, sweet, challenging, darling, charming–all of it combined in the most satisfying and exhilarating banter and connection. Every page and situation was a joy to read and I devoured it. This is not a tale to be missed!
Content: mild romance; mild violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
As usual, I was completely smitten and captivated by this 6th installment in the Somerset Stories series, and I feel like it can stand alone.
Bea and Jack have the sweetest story and it was stuffed full of all the things I adore. Both have been in India and both are returning to England. A meeting on the ship leads to a fake engagement to benefit each of them, but honestly–who in the world can resist Jack?! I, for one, was immediately infatuated with him and his magnetic, caring, and impulsive ways, but I truly appreciated the way it affected Bea. Even with the chance to tell the truth, this act continued and the chemistry sizzled delightfully. I could see why he was chased incessantly.
Poignant, sweet, challenging, darling, charming–all of it combined in the most satisfying and exhilarating banter and connection. Every page and situation was a joy to read and I devoured it. This is not a tale to be missed!
Content: mild romance; mild violence
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given*
September 19, 2025
I almost didn’t pick this one up to finish reading the series, for reasons, but I’m so glad I did! It’s a fake relationship trope historical romance, and most of it is set in a boat traveling from Alexandria to France, with passengers leaving India and other British colonies to go back to England. Beatrice is just a governess, and not a very good one, in a desperate situation, just trying to go to England for a second chance in life. Jack is a soldier going back home after suffering a traumatic injury. He’s also the catch of the season, and all marriage-minded mamas are after him. So he comes up with a scheme to help himself and Bea. It’s so cute and I really enjoyed it. Mimi Matthews is a great choice if you’re looking for something to read that is just cozy and the obstacles don’t seem unsurmountable and that are well-written and -researched historical fiction.
September 13, 2025
This was a lovely story and a fitting end to this series.
October 2, 2025
2.5?
don't get me wrong, this was lovely and soft but it needed like, 50 pages more
the tension of them before meeting his family was great but then they pretty much declare their love for each other and the book ends.
don't get me wrong, this was lovely and soft but it needed like, 50 pages more
the tension of them before meeting his family was great but then they pretty much declare their love for each other and the book ends.
August 19, 2025
Finally Jack’s book! My only complaint was that it was too short! 😭 I wanted Jack and Bea’s story to go on and on….
Oh well another lovely addition to the Somerset series. This makes me want to re-read all the books, but now in their proper order.
Regency - the parent’s books
The work of Art
Gentleman Jim
Victorian era - the children:
4 Somerset stories books culminating in this book where they meet a side character starting w the next series
Parish orphans of Devon - 4 books that lead into
The Belles of London - 4 books
All these series overlap each other. I dont think her other books do so.
Oh well another lovely addition to the Somerset series. This makes me want to re-read all the books, but now in their proper order.
Regency - the parent’s books
The work of Art
Gentleman Jim
Victorian era - the children:
4 Somerset stories books culminating in this book where they meet a side character starting w the next series
Parish orphans of Devon - 4 books that lead into
The Belles of London - 4 books
All these series overlap each other. I dont think her other books do so.
September 1, 2025
3.5/5. I left wishing there was a bit more meat on the bones; for once, I think the plot could have actually benefited from some manufactured conflict. Lovely read regardless and I can fully appreciate the love story for what it is - a short, sweet and simple read.
August 11, 2025
So so happy to have had the opportunity to enjoy this last installment of the second generation Somerset stories. This is my favorite of Mimi's series. She did so many things well in this last book. I really agree with her setting the story so far into the future, as Jack's growth and maturity could be easily believed, while still remaining himself. I especially loved seeing all the family members again in the last half or so. I'm going to miss these fictional friends so much...but my heart rejoices that we may see a third generation book at some point, given Mimi's teaser in the Author's Note?! Squeeeeeee!
I did feel like the first half of the book was harder for me to get immersed in than Mimi's other books for some reason. I think it was because the story seemed more plot driven as opposed to both character building + plot driven, which Mimi usually balances so well. Bea's character was only starting to be fully rounded out for me when the book finished (would have loved to see her coming out of her shell more when playing with the children, for instance--but we don't get really any insight into her thoughts during those brief interactions). I would have loved to see more courtship in the last 1/2-1/3 of the book, the story wrapped up a little too quickly for me. I don't mind short romances, in fact I sort of love them (and loved the last short book in this series, Lady of Conscience), but this one did feel like it ended prematurely. But as a whole this was a satisfying romance for me, and (I felt) especially for Jack. The fact that Bea sort of fell into his lap and she wasn't "his type" (in rank or beauty etc) seemed perfect.
I will always feel supremely lucky when I get to read a new Mimi Matthews book.
I did feel like the first half of the book was harder for me to get immersed in than Mimi's other books for some reason. I think it was because the story seemed more plot driven as opposed to both character building + plot driven, which Mimi usually balances so well. Bea's character was only starting to be fully rounded out for me when the book finished (would have loved to see her coming out of her shell more when playing with the children, for instance--but we don't get really any insight into her thoughts during those brief interactions). I would have loved to see more courtship in the last 1/2-1/3 of the book, the story wrapped up a little too quickly for me. I don't mind short romances, in fact I sort of love them (and loved the last short book in this series, Lady of Conscience), but this one did feel like it ended prematurely. But as a whole this was a satisfying romance for me, and (I felt) especially for Jack. The fact that Bea sort of fell into his lap and she wasn't "his type" (in rank or beauty etc) seemed perfect.
I will always feel supremely lucky when I get to read a new Mimi Matthews book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 195 reviews