The Honorable Governess

False Rumors #4

by Laura A. Barnes

Every honorable act is driven by love.

A lady threatened by the unknown. A gentleman wishing to be the lady’s knight in shining armor. Would they acknowledge their feelings before danger strikes?

Sara Abbott had been sheltered throughout her life by those who loved her. Now, her innocence leaves her vulnerable to a villain's terror. When her employer proposed marriage to ensure her protection, Sara’s heart refused to deny the offer. She had longed for the duke’s kiss since he had comforted her in his warm embrace. Was Sara’s greatest wish to be part of a family within her grasp?

Ian Somerville was a widower who guarded his heart from love. However, when a demure governess joined his household, she soothed his sorrow away. Sara's caring nature with his daughter and her innocent charm left him yearning for a new beginning filled with happiness. When threatened with false rumors, Ian seduced his governess into becoming his bride. Could he also open his heart to love again?

What began as a marriage of protection soon blossomed into an undeniable love affair, yet one clouded in secrets. Would they reveal their secrets and declare their love for one another? Or would the threat against Sara claim victory for the destruction of their happiness?

The Honorable Governess is the last book in Laura A. Barnes’s False Rumor series. If you love a romance about a duke falling for his governess, then you’ll enjoy the simmering passion between Sara and Ian.

Enjoy The Honorable Governess today!

196 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 15, 2025

About the author

International bestselling author Laura A. Barnes fell in love with writing in the second grade. After her first creative writing assignment, she dreamt of becoming an author. Many years went by with Laura filling her head full of story ideas and some funny fish songs she wrote while fishing with her family. In 2017, she made her dreams a reality. With her debut novel Rescued By the Captain, she has set out on the path of a published author.​

When not writing, Laura can be found devouring her favorite romance books. Laura is married to her own Prince Charming (who for some reason or another thinks the heroes in her books are about him) who she enjoys traveling with and binging shows on streaming services. You can usually find her spending time with her children and grandchildren. Besides her love of reading and writing, Laura loves to travel. With her passport stamped in England, Scotland, and Ireland; she hopes to add more countries to her list soon.​

While Laura isn’t very good on the social media front, she loves to hear from her readers. You can find her on the following platforms:​

Website: http://www.lauraabarnes.com

Amazon: https://amazon.com/author/lauraabarnes ​

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show...​

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorLauraA...​

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/labarnesaut...​

TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@labarnesauthor​

Twitter: https://twitter.com/labarnesauthor

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/laura...

Reviews

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book as an ARC read in return for an honest review. Well no problem there. If I could give 10 stars I would.

I have been reading Laura A. Barnes books since 2019 and this is my 21st book by her. I can truthfully say, I have really enjoyed every book of hers. She always has great characters and they are always great stories. Some I’ve even added to my favorite books read list. I do have to say I had no idea what this story was about before I read it. That goes with every new book I start. I don't read book descriptions anymore. I haven't read them in years. I love being totally surprised on all aspects of the story and different plots. I do have to say, I have been loving this series. 😊

I know my reviews sometimes can be so one note but I hate saying any little thing that might give something away. That is one reason I don’t read book descriptions anymore. Just know I have read 3118 books in 8.5 years and I have about 40 authors I have read every one of their books. With that being said, you know if I keep coming back for more of their stories, they are definitely worth the read.

WOW, I totally LOVED this book. I loved Sara and Ian. I loved their characters, their personalities and their chemistry. I loved their interactions together and especially with Mairi. So cute. The sex scenes were so freakin’ hot and so damn good. I do have to say, I read over 300 books a year and I’ve probably read almost 600 books since I read book 1 came out and about 120 books since Book 3 came out so it took me a minute to remember the backstory. I had to jog my memory to remember all the female characters and what happened to them. I don’t remember Sara and Ian’s interactions in previous books but that didn’t matter. This story was fantastic. I couldn’t put it down. I started reading it at my doctor's office this morning and already finished it. I am definitely adding this to my favorite books read list for Feb, 2025. Just so damn good. This is why I love Laura A. Barnes. Stories just like this. DEFINITELY recommend!!!

At the end of the books Laura says now onto my next project. I already can’t wait for what's next.

[Rosemary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the last book in this series, and it was just as good as the previous books. I remember reading about Sara and the Duke, Ian, in previous books and wanted their story. Even though it is a series you do not have to read the other books first, you will not be lost, but I would suggest reading them all. I like how they have solved the mystery of who has been sending the threatening letters to the ladies. I have to say I was a little surprised who it was. This book kept me wanting to keep reading it. A very good book written by a good author.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.

[Nanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Am really sorry to see this series end. It has been intriguing and suspenseful. All the books were full of emotions, passion and caring. To get the most out of the stories you should read them in order. The danger followers the couple from book to book, ending in this one. I was truly shocked by the ending; I didn’t see this one coming. Ian’s best friend, wife and mother of his daughter died, taking all the sunshine out of their lives. When Sara becomes Mairi governess everything changes. Mairi starts to feel and act like a child again, enjoying playing and having fun. Ian could not believe the change in her. Sara and her friends have been receiving threatening letters, promising to do them harm. All of her friends have found husband to protected them except her. Now her employer, the duke has offered to marry her so he can protect her. Sara has always longed for a family, children and love. Now she is to become a wife in name only? She doesn’t want to harm Iran, or Mairia, a Duke marrying his governess is not done, the ton will not be forgiving or forget. She has many feelings about what she should do and how she should act. Yet she has fallen for the duke with her whole heart. Ian, had a wonderful marriage to his best friend, they grew up together and were comfortable with each other. It had none of the passion he feels when he is around Sara, but does she feel the same? This couple really needs to learn to talk to one other, she hears what he says to other men and take it wrong. He is keeping secrets from her that of course come out at the worst time and cause her to act badly. What a great read, tons of emotion, passion, love, second chances. Many twist and turns, with the villains being found out if almost too late. Don’t miss this one. I think it my favorite of the series, and they are all great story. I received and ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. A winner of sure, would give it a ton of stars if I could.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

The utter entitlement of people!!!

4.5 Stars (For total overall culmination of the series.)

We get to visit with Sara and her Duke in this, the final story of the False Rumors series. We have seen them on the edges of the other books in the series, but now they get their hard won HEA. Ian Somerville, the Duke of Somerville, has lost his life long friend and wife, leaving him in need of a governess... enter Miss Sara Abbott. Ian has struggled with his feelings for Sara, because she is in his employ. Once married, he worries that his feelings will overwhelm Sara. With his first wifethere was a level of comfort from having known each other since birth. There was no grand passion, like the one he has for Sara, and this is interesting and surprising to him.

Sara struggles with being Ian's wife and fears he has only done it out of pity and to give his daughter a mother. She has only known love from her grandmother and has worried her whole life that she was flawed and unworthy of being loved. I struggled with her wishy washy attitude andunwillingness to accept her own worth. I didn't like that she had evidence of Somerville's love, devotion and protection and still denied it. I prefer strong women and she just couldn't find it in herself quickly enough for me. she even had her very strong friends forguidance.

I completely enjoyed the group getting to the bottom of the mystery that has plagued them throughout the series. That was very satisfying. I think Ian somewhat short changed Sara, by keeping so much from her, even if it was in his mind, to protect her. It robbed her of the chance all along to potentially find her inner strength and personal worth. The end was satisfying and I look forward to reading more by Ms. Barnes.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Goodness, what a series ending! When Sara and her three fellow governesses were driven out of London by shameful rumors, she ended up in the Duke of Somerville’s household caring for his daughter Mairi. Sara who was sweet, kind and rather innocent, helped the withdrawn child, whose mother had died when she was quite young, come out of her shell and embrace life. What she did not know was that she did the same thing for Ian, the Duke of Somerville. Sara thought Ian walked on water and as she watched while her other three friends find love and marry, she despaired that she never would, as the man she loved was not only her employer, but also a duke. ln the aftermath of a threatening encounter at Lord and Lady Hepburn’s ball, Ian, Sara and Mairi journeyed to London to visit his late wife’s parents, the Whethams, for the holidays. After getting to know her and approving of the positive effect she had on both Ian and Mairi, the Whethams adored and accepted Sara, encouraging Ian to follow through on his feelings for her. Ian, who had already sent investigators to delve into Sara’s past, decided that the best way to protect her would be for them to marry.
What follows is the steamy story of a besotted duke who is desperately trying to keep his new wife safe. Secrets, misunderstandings and insecurities abound, leading to heartache, danger and one nearly fatal encounter. The other three ‘governesses’ and their husbands join them in London, making the circle complete. This story is the finale to a series that is exciting, romantic, emotionally engaging, steamy and very entertaining!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story in this series. Full of mystery, steam, love, villains, action, friends, suspense, intrigue, sadness and family. Sara is on of four friends that ran away to Scotland after threats to them all happened. Her friends Vivian, Grace and Flora have all found their happiness. Duke Ian has wanted Sara since she first started working for him as his daughter, Mairi's governess. Sara and Mairi bonded right away from the first and forged a love for each other. Then another letter comes that threatens Sara and the others so Ian has to find a way to protect them all. They head to London to his in-laws who fall for Sara immediately. Then comes another letter and they all support her. Ian and Sara marry hoping that who ever is doing this will leave her alone. Has lots of misunderstandings and secrets that both Ian and Sara need to talk about. You finally get the answers that started in book 1 of this series. What a surprise you have for an answer in the ending. Would strongly recommend this book and the rest of the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vicious and false rumors sent Sara and her friends to Scotland to seek positions as governesses. Vivian, Grace, and Flora found more than a job. Each of them has found love and happiness. Sara has found a position with a widowed duke as governess to his daughter. Ian is attracted to Sara from the time she comes to work for him, and Mairi, sad and withdrawn since her mother’s death, blooms under her care. Unfortunately, the rumors and threats follow her to Scotland and back to London. Ian and Sara agree to marry. Secrets and misunderstandings cause them to believe it is truly a marriage of convenience, a means to protect her. Not true, but it may take a while and a trial or two for them to see the truth. This is the last story in an interesting series. It has trouble, mystery, danger and lots of fun and wonderful romance in each story. The mystery has wound through the series and comes to an end in this one. The answer to the who and why of the rumors and threats will surprise you.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fourth and final story in the False Rumors series with an over arching story of four friends that ran away to Scotland after threats to them all occurred. The author does a wonderful job of making it possible to pick up on the storyline but I do recommend the other books to enhance this one. Sara thinks she is marrying Ian because he wants to protect her only. Lots of insecurities and secrets withheld between them cause marriage angst. When they finally give into the chemistry between them sparks fly. I enjoyed the unfolding of the overarching evil that has followed Sara and her friends as well as the love that they all found. Good series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

The fourth and final story in the False Rumors. Sara Abbott and widower Ian Somerville the Duke of Somerville and his daughter Mairi's well written story. Sara and Ian marry to give her protection, but both are keeping secrets there is also danger, misunderstandings, insecurities and a happy ending. The story grabbed my interest and kept me turning pages, I wanted to know who the troublemaker was. I would say this is a series to be read in order as it deals with four friends. I would recommend this series.

[Deborah Durand · Rating 4 out of 5]

We finally find out who’s behind the threatening letters and how that’s linked to Miss Sara Abbott…the governess for the Duke of Somerville. All her friends are there to support Sara and encourage her affection for her employer, as it is obvious he holds a tendre for his bride of convenience. Enjoy this action packed conclusion peppered with steamy scenes between a passionate married couple.
I have received an ARC from Booksprout and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.

[Berta Greenleaf Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a lovely story of love between a duke and a governess. Society might not approve but they fell in love and married. However, her insecurities would not allow her to see his love and he was afraid of losing her like he had his first wife. Also there was much danger around Sara. Someone wanted to hurt her. They get their HEA. I recommend this book to all historical romance readers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CATHERINE BURHANS · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sara Abbott and her friends fled to Scotland when false rumors and threats sent them running. Unfortunately, the threats followed Sara there. She worked for a widowed Duke , and she loved his little girl whom she cared for. She soon fell in love with the Duke as well. When he finds out that she is threatened, he marries her to protect her. But Sara has secrets and feels so unworthy to marry a Duke. Can the mystery of the threats be resolved and a marriage of convenience turn into so much more?

[Sahar's Honest Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Safeguarding Sara
Ian adores his governess, yet he insists his proposal is solely to protect her. Both are hiding secrets—never a good foundation for a relationship. Meanwhile, a mysterious blackmailer is determined to harm Sara. But who could it be, and why? The truth will shock them both. As danger closes in, Ian must find a way to keep her safe. Will love prevail in the end? This captivating historical romance kept me engaged, and I highly recommend it to fans of the genre.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book says it can be read as a standalone, but I think I would have benefited from reading the previous books. The characters feel real and struggle with guessing what each thinks of the other. Sara especially feels she is not good enough for Ian which causes issues in their relationship. This was a male dominant book, and the female seemed more submissive. Interesting story.

[Gina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sara as a governess never thought she would fall in love with her employer, Ian. She also didn't expect him to ask her to marry him for her safety. She feels unworthy, after all he is a Duke. He does many things to show his love. She loves him and his daughter so much she is willing to sacrifice her happiness.

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed reading Sara and Ian's second chance at love. Ian is a widower who hires Sara to be his daughter’s governess, soon a marriage of convenience is arranged under the guise of protecting Sara. Can Ian protect Sara from their unsern adversary.