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Governess #2
The Governess Was Wanton
Follow three best friends who navigate love and independence as governesses in Regency England in this delightfully charming installment in the Governesses series.
Mary Woodward, a young veteran governess, has one job: guiding a young debutante through her first season in high society. And up until now, keeping her focus and avoiding temptation has been easy. But never before has the father of her young charge been as devilishly handsome as the single, wealthy Earl of Asten.... Convinced to risk it all, Mary let's herself enjoy one night of magic at a masked ball in Asten's arms, but will they both regret everything when the Earl learns her true identity?
Mary Woodward, a young veteran governess, has one job: guiding a young debutante through her first season in high society. And up until now, keeping her focus and avoiding temptation has been easy. But never before has the father of her young charge been as devilishly handsome as the single, wealthy Earl of Asten.... Convinced to risk it all, Mary let's herself enjoy one night of magic at a masked ball in Asten's arms, but will they both regret everything when the Earl learns her true identity?
177 pages, ebook
First published October 10, 2016
40 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Julia Kelly
22 books2,527 followersJulia Kelly is the international bestselling author of historical fiction and historical mystery novels about the extraordinary stories of the past. Her books have been translated into 13 languages. In addition to writing, she’s been an Emmy-nominated producer, journalist, marketing professional, and (for one summer) a tea waitress. Julia has called Los Angeles, Iowa, and New York City home. She now lives in London with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 47 reviews
October 9, 2016
'The Governess Was Wanton' by Julia Kelly is book two in the "Governess" series. This is the story of Mary Woodward and Eric the Earl of Asten. I have read the previous book but I feel this is easily a standalone book.
Mary has be pretty much on her own since her father died and her mother remarried. Mary was left at a boarding school and from there moved into being a Governess since she couldn't pay the bills. Mary has done well at the job and moves on once her 'charge' becomes married. That is the case now where she is finding herself with a new charge who is a teenager...but the thing different is that Mary is attracted to the single father. Mary knows there is no future in this and can only ruin her. So Mary tries her best to fight any feelings she has. Eric too is surprised at his feelings of desire for Mary. Eric tries to fight it and thinks he has found someone to take his mind of of Mary but then as quick as he found her he lost her. But has he really lost her or is she just under his nose?
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
Mary has be pretty much on her own since her father died and her mother remarried. Mary was left at a boarding school and from there moved into being a Governess since she couldn't pay the bills. Mary has done well at the job and moves on once her 'charge' becomes married. That is the case now where she is finding herself with a new charge who is a teenager...but the thing different is that Mary is attracted to the single father. Mary knows there is no future in this and can only ruin her. So Mary tries her best to fight any feelings she has. Eric too is surprised at his feelings of desire for Mary. Eric tries to fight it and thinks he has found someone to take his mind of of Mary but then as quick as he found her he lost her. But has he really lost her or is she just under his nose?
"My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read."
January 19, 2020
Nice little story.
September 12, 2016
Originally posted at Desert Island Book Reviews
A couple of weeks ago, I reviewed the first book in this series, which is set to be released this week. Now, I’ve read this second book and I enjoyed it more than the first. While at first this seemed to be a basic historical romance following a similar pattern as the first book (governess, forbidden romance, etc.), it turned into a sort of retelling of “Cinderella.” I absolutely love fairy tale retellings, so when these little details popped up, I was very excited.
There still isn’t a ton of complexity here, but the main character Mary’s role as a governess is much more relevant than Elizabeth’s in the previous book. I liked the romance here better because it felt more plausible to me, and I enjoyed the characters. I did think that Eleanora (Mary’s charge) seemed a little young at the start of the book, but by the end, I felt that she had really grown.
The thing I liked least was how willing the characters were to engage in a sexual relationship and how quickly they had sexual thoughts about each other after meeting. Obviously I’ve never lived in the nineteenth century, but I have lived in the present, and even now I can’t imagine people having such sexual thoughts at a first meeting (but maybe that’s really just me). Mary seemed just a touch too promiscuous, though in a book where she (the governess) is labeled as wanton, maybe I shouldn’t have been surprised.
This was a really fun and quick read, and I think historical romance readers will enjoy it, as long as you like your books heavy on the romance. It wasn’t terribly complex, but the fairy tale elements are there and there is character growth over time. I gave this book four stars.
*ARC from Pocket Star Books via NetGalley
A couple of weeks ago, I reviewed the first book in this series, which is set to be released this week. Now, I’ve read this second book and I enjoyed it more than the first. While at first this seemed to be a basic historical romance following a similar pattern as the first book (governess, forbidden romance, etc.), it turned into a sort of retelling of “Cinderella.” I absolutely love fairy tale retellings, so when these little details popped up, I was very excited.
There still isn’t a ton of complexity here, but the main character Mary’s role as a governess is much more relevant than Elizabeth’s in the previous book. I liked the romance here better because it felt more plausible to me, and I enjoyed the characters. I did think that Eleanora (Mary’s charge) seemed a little young at the start of the book, but by the end, I felt that she had really grown.
The thing I liked least was how willing the characters were to engage in a sexual relationship and how quickly they had sexual thoughts about each other after meeting. Obviously I’ve never lived in the nineteenth century, but I have lived in the present, and even now I can’t imagine people having such sexual thoughts at a first meeting (but maybe that’s really just me). Mary seemed just a touch too promiscuous, though in a book where she (the governess) is labeled as wanton, maybe I shouldn’t have been surprised.
This was a really fun and quick read, and I think historical romance readers will enjoy it, as long as you like your books heavy on the romance. It wasn’t terribly complex, but the fairy tale elements are there and there is character growth over time. I gave this book four stars.
*ARC from Pocket Star Books via NetGalley
April 29, 2019
The Governess Was Wanton was a wonderful read featuring an outstanding romance and a great set of characters.
Mary Woodward, known as the Fairy Godmother of Belgravia, is one of the most sought after governesses of her time. Mary has a great success rate guiding young debutantes through their first season to find their perfect match. When the Earl of Asten writes to Mary requesting her help with his daughter, Mary accepts. What Mary didn’t count on was the undeniable attraction between herself and Eric.
Mary grew up a gentleman’s daughter but after his death and her mother’s remarriage, Mary had to learn to look out for herself when her mother’s new husband wasn’t interested in caring for another man’s daughter. Mary is excellent at her work and enjoys it as well. Eric has always been one to do his duty which resulted in him entering a loveless marriage. After his wife’s death, Eric has devoted himself to his daughter Eleanor’s happiness and wants nothing but the best for her.
Mary and Eric’s relationship starts out fairly slowly due to their employer/employee status. They are both immediately attracted to one another but refuse to act on it due to the situation. When Mary attends a masked ball at Eleanor’s bidding, her and Eric are able to share a passion-filled moment before Mary departs before her identity can be discovered. After the ball, their relationship quickly escalates until they finally give in to their attraction. I was happy with the way their relationship progressed at that point and I thought the grand gesture at the end of the story was perfectly done and showed how much Eric paid attention to what Mary wanted.
Overall I enjoyed The Governess Was Wanton even more than the first book in the series and I’m looking forward to reading the third book soon.
Mary Woodward, known as the Fairy Godmother of Belgravia, is one of the most sought after governesses of her time. Mary has a great success rate guiding young debutantes through their first season to find their perfect match. When the Earl of Asten writes to Mary requesting her help with his daughter, Mary accepts. What Mary didn’t count on was the undeniable attraction between herself and Eric.
Mary grew up a gentleman’s daughter but after his death and her mother’s remarriage, Mary had to learn to look out for herself when her mother’s new husband wasn’t interested in caring for another man’s daughter. Mary is excellent at her work and enjoys it as well. Eric has always been one to do his duty which resulted in him entering a loveless marriage. After his wife’s death, Eric has devoted himself to his daughter Eleanor’s happiness and wants nothing but the best for her.
Mary and Eric’s relationship starts out fairly slowly due to their employer/employee status. They are both immediately attracted to one another but refuse to act on it due to the situation. When Mary attends a masked ball at Eleanor’s bidding, her and Eric are able to share a passion-filled moment before Mary departs before her identity can be discovered. After the ball, their relationship quickly escalates until they finally give in to their attraction. I was happy with the way their relationship progressed at that point and I thought the grand gesture at the end of the story was perfectly done and showed how much Eric paid attention to what Mary wanted.
Overall I enjoyed The Governess Was Wanton even more than the first book in the series and I’m looking forward to reading the third book soon.
October 10, 2016
Mary’s story is the second in this charming series that follows three friends in service as governesses in London. After the betrothal announcement of her latest charge, Mary left that home to stay with Julia (book 1) and her husband while she evaluated new options for employment. Several letters of enquiry have hit the trash bin until she reads a letter from Lord Asten arrives. His daughter, Eleanora is entering her first season, and he’s concerned about her apparent withdrawal and lack of enjoyment in all things having to do with this time.
From the first, Mary is solidly her own woman, from chiding the Earl when she is kept waiting for an appointment, through her often plain-spoken reprimands that show him she is not swayed by his looks or title. Eleanora is a bit more difficult to bring to her side, but a face off (admittedly above the reach of her position) with a friend of the Earl’s widow who is taking great liberties, soon have Eleanora on her side.
Mary was a bit more reserved and tightly wound than Julia in the earlier title. This worked really well for her personality though, as she is both the longest in service and having had withstood the scandal of her mother’s faithlessness after her father’s death. She’s worked hard to build a solid reputation, and no matter how attracted she is to Eric (Lord Asten) she won’t risk it.
For his part, Asten is unwilling to allow himself a dalliance with his help: he’d spent the past 14 years as a widower, devoted to duty and his daughter. A bad marriage had him unwilling to risk his heart, but Mary intrigues him on so many levels, he can’t see through the lust for the truth.
A costume ball, passion in the folly, his daughter’s obvious growth, happiness and new suitor and her quiet manipulations set him straight…but it may be too late.
As in the first book, Kelly has managed to pack all that one would hope from a larger book into this read in 2 hours large novella. Heart, heat, a touch of growth and revelation as well as moments with the three friends together, and you get a wonderful story. Eric is honorable and loyal, Mary is passionate, intelligent and caring. Together they are marvelous. A wonderful instalment in the series – a perfect series for a quiet hiding away moment where happy endings are guaranteed.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
From the first, Mary is solidly her own woman, from chiding the Earl when she is kept waiting for an appointment, through her often plain-spoken reprimands that show him she is not swayed by his looks or title. Eleanora is a bit more difficult to bring to her side, but a face off (admittedly above the reach of her position) with a friend of the Earl’s widow who is taking great liberties, soon have Eleanora on her side.
Mary was a bit more reserved and tightly wound than Julia in the earlier title. This worked really well for her personality though, as she is both the longest in service and having had withstood the scandal of her mother’s faithlessness after her father’s death. She’s worked hard to build a solid reputation, and no matter how attracted she is to Eric (Lord Asten) she won’t risk it.
For his part, Asten is unwilling to allow himself a dalliance with his help: he’d spent the past 14 years as a widower, devoted to duty and his daughter. A bad marriage had him unwilling to risk his heart, but Mary intrigues him on so many levels, he can’t see through the lust for the truth.
A costume ball, passion in the folly, his daughter’s obvious growth, happiness and new suitor and her quiet manipulations set him straight…but it may be too late.
As in the first book, Kelly has managed to pack all that one would hope from a larger book into this read in 2 hours large novella. Heart, heat, a touch of growth and revelation as well as moments with the three friends together, and you get a wonderful story. Eric is honorable and loyal, Mary is passionate, intelligent and caring. Together they are marvelous. A wonderful instalment in the series – a perfect series for a quiet hiding away moment where happy endings are guaranteed.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
This review was originally posted on I am, Indeed
May 22, 2017
Mary Woodward is hired as the governess for the seventeen-year-old daughter of the Earl of Asten. Does a seventeen-year-old who's about to embark on her first season really need a governess? I think not, but for the sake of this story, let's all play along. Mary's no-nonsense manner and intuition are useful skills in helping the earl figure out what's troubling his usually congenial daughter. With Mary's guidance, the earl's daughter begins a promising courtship and the earl discovers what's been missing from his life.
Likes-The earl was a fair, down-to-earth guy. He listened to Mary's suspicions and didn't accuse her of being impertinent. He made it perfectly clear from the day he met Mary that he had no intention of marrying Lady Laughlin. That knowledge alleviated a lot of unnecessary tension between the main characters. Lady Laughlin was kept in check by the author and not permitted to create a lot of senseless drama in the story. The scene where she was finally put in her place by the earl was priceless. Some ladies just can't take a hint.
Dislikes- The hero and heroine lusted for each other way too soon and way too much. The earl jumped in too quickly with the masked woman at the masquerade ball. Yes, this woman was Mary, but he didn't know that when he lifted her skirts and performed oral sex on her in the garden. After that scene, I had to question his loyalty and integrity. Likewise, Mary had been a respectable governess for years, so I found it difficult to believe she had the hots for the earl so badly she'd willingly let him ravish her in his home. No self-control? No honest discussion beforehand? I don't think so. But then, I am forced to read the title of this novel again, and I must shake my head and move on.
Likes-The earl was a fair, down-to-earth guy. He listened to Mary's suspicions and didn't accuse her of being impertinent. He made it perfectly clear from the day he met Mary that he had no intention of marrying Lady Laughlin. That knowledge alleviated a lot of unnecessary tension between the main characters. Lady Laughlin was kept in check by the author and not permitted to create a lot of senseless drama in the story. The scene where she was finally put in her place by the earl was priceless. Some ladies just can't take a hint.
Dislikes- The hero and heroine lusted for each other way too soon and way too much. The earl jumped in too quickly with the masked woman at the masquerade ball. Yes, this woman was Mary, but he didn't know that when he lifted her skirts and performed oral sex on her in the garden. After that scene, I had to question his loyalty and integrity. Likewise, Mary had been a respectable governess for years, so I found it difficult to believe she had the hots for the earl so badly she'd willingly let him ravish her in his home. No self-control? No honest discussion beforehand? I don't think so. But then, I am forced to read the title of this novel again, and I must shake my head and move on.
February 3, 2019
A very cute romantic novella! I really liked Mary’s no-nonsense personality and how she helped the family. I thought the love story was cute and the side characters done well.
October 4, 2016
The Governess Was Wanton is the second book in the 'Governess' series by Julia Kelly. I have had the pleasure of reading the first book in the series, but you don't need to have read it in order to understand and enjoy this book.
This is the story of Mary Woodward. She has been a successful governess for 14 years. She started young when her father had died after bankrupting the family, and her mother ran off to Europe with her new husband, leaving Mary in boarding school without even paying the bill. Mary had to find work in order to survive and being a governess was her choice of vocation.
In this story she takes on the job as the governess to a teenager, Lady Eleanora who is embarking on her first 'season'. Her father the Earl of Aston, Eric, wants Eleanora to have the best start to that 'season' plus he is at his wits ends because she has become very stand offish and upset recently and for the life of him he can't figure out why. So not only does he want Mary to help with her education, he also needs her help to find out what's wrong with Eleanora. Mary needs the job because her last 'charge' has married and once her 'charges' marry, she moves on to her next Governess job. She jumps at the chance to work for the Earl. But she gets more than she bargains for when she has her interview with him and from first look she falls in lust with him. She listens to what her job will entail but she can't stop thinking of all the sinful things she would like to do with him. Of course she knows she can't have a relationship with any employer, even one who isn't married, but it doesn't stop her thinking her wanton thoughts.
Unknown to Mary is the fact that Eric is feeling just as lustful as she is. He knows too that he can't have any kind of relationship with her because he's vowed never to put a person in his employment in a position where she thinks she has to be intimate with him or lose her job. So around her task of becoming friend and governess to Eleanora, there are a lot of lustful thoughts flying around the home.
Mary, at the pleading of Eleanora, attends a masquerade ball with her. She is there to support her 'charge' but also has to go incognito, after all, governesses do not attend balls. This is where the book turns into a kind of retelling of Cinderella. Eric sees this masked woman who reminds him so much of Mary. He knows it can't be her, (it is her of course) but he is still struck with an attraction to her very like what he feels for Mary. They have a tryst in the garden where she won't tell him her name, and at midnight Mary ends up running away in order to get back home before the ball ends and she is discovered trying to get back in the house. Eric hopes that having released some of his pent up passion that he will be more sensible around Mary, he even tries to find the masked woman because if he can't have the woman he really wants, then he can at least have somebody that reminds him so much of her.
Will he realise or find out that the 'other woman' is actually Mary, or will he forget all about her if he gives in to his desires and seduces the woman he actually wants? And what of Mary, can she still feel lustful towards the Earl knowing that as far as he was concerned he's had a tryst with another woman? What if they both give in to their desires, how can it work out between them when she is just a lowly governess?
I loved this book, it was a quick read, but so full of content. You had the Cinderella fairy tale to enjoy, but also Eleanor's season to read about, and the troubles she has thanks to the woman who is her chaperone. And of course there is the sizzling passion between Eric and Mary, the drama of them wanting each other but believing it to be impossible. There is even a nice bit of character building where we learn about their pasts and parents, something a lot of Novella length stories might not pay much attention to.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable read that I recommend. I am looking forward to the next in the series, which I will also be reviewing.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This is the story of Mary Woodward. She has been a successful governess for 14 years. She started young when her father had died after bankrupting the family, and her mother ran off to Europe with her new husband, leaving Mary in boarding school without even paying the bill. Mary had to find work in order to survive and being a governess was her choice of vocation.
In this story she takes on the job as the governess to a teenager, Lady Eleanora who is embarking on her first 'season'. Her father the Earl of Aston, Eric, wants Eleanora to have the best start to that 'season' plus he is at his wits ends because she has become very stand offish and upset recently and for the life of him he can't figure out why. So not only does he want Mary to help with her education, he also needs her help to find out what's wrong with Eleanora. Mary needs the job because her last 'charge' has married and once her 'charges' marry, she moves on to her next Governess job. She jumps at the chance to work for the Earl. But she gets more than she bargains for when she has her interview with him and from first look she falls in lust with him. She listens to what her job will entail but she can't stop thinking of all the sinful things she would like to do with him. Of course she knows she can't have a relationship with any employer, even one who isn't married, but it doesn't stop her thinking her wanton thoughts.
Unknown to Mary is the fact that Eric is feeling just as lustful as she is. He knows too that he can't have any kind of relationship with her because he's vowed never to put a person in his employment in a position where she thinks she has to be intimate with him or lose her job. So around her task of becoming friend and governess to Eleanora, there are a lot of lustful thoughts flying around the home.
Mary, at the pleading of Eleanora, attends a masquerade ball with her. She is there to support her 'charge' but also has to go incognito, after all, governesses do not attend balls. This is where the book turns into a kind of retelling of Cinderella. Eric sees this masked woman who reminds him so much of Mary. He knows it can't be her, (it is her of course) but he is still struck with an attraction to her very like what he feels for Mary. They have a tryst in the garden where she won't tell him her name, and at midnight Mary ends up running away in order to get back home before the ball ends and she is discovered trying to get back in the house. Eric hopes that having released some of his pent up passion that he will be more sensible around Mary, he even tries to find the masked woman because if he can't have the woman he really wants, then he can at least have somebody that reminds him so much of her.
Will he realise or find out that the 'other woman' is actually Mary, or will he forget all about her if he gives in to his desires and seduces the woman he actually wants? And what of Mary, can she still feel lustful towards the Earl knowing that as far as he was concerned he's had a tryst with another woman? What if they both give in to their desires, how can it work out between them when she is just a lowly governess?
I loved this book, it was a quick read, but so full of content. You had the Cinderella fairy tale to enjoy, but also Eleanor's season to read about, and the troubles she has thanks to the woman who is her chaperone. And of course there is the sizzling passion between Eric and Mary, the drama of them wanting each other but believing it to be impossible. There is even a nice bit of character building where we learn about their pasts and parents, something a lot of Novella length stories might not pay much attention to.
All in all a thoroughly enjoyable read that I recommend. I am looking forward to the next in the series, which I will also be reviewing.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2018
This trio of Governess books is sweet and spicy. In each of the books, the Governess in question is doing her job, raising a society family’s children for them. The job requires that the employee keep her head down, repress her own personality, and watch out for wayward impulses, family members and co-workers. For the most part, Elizabeth, Mary, and Jane are stellar at their jobs, except for that minor matter of keeping their own personalities repressed.
Elizabeth is in love with the family physician (Wicked). Mary with the master of her house (Wanton), and Jane with Sir Nicholas Hollings (Wild). The trio have each other’s love and support as they work through the obstacles between them and their individual HEAs.
Elizabeth is in love with the family physician (Wicked). Mary with the master of her house (Wanton), and Jane with Sir Nicholas Hollings (Wild). The trio have each other’s love and support as they work through the obstacles between them and their individual HEAs.
October 24, 2016
My review cross-posted from Wit and Sin: http://witandsin.blogspot.com/2016/10...
Mary Woodward is a highly sought-after governess with a talent for guiding her charges through the season and promoting good matches. Eric Bromford, the fourth Earl of Asten, is a father at his wit’s end and desperate for Mary’s services. Eric isn’t your typical lord. He’s widower and a doting father who cares very much for his daughter’s happiness, education, and general well-being. He simply cannot understand why Eleanora is suddenly unhappy and picking fights with him, which is when Mary enters the picture. Mary is quick to spot the problem – or rather the people causing the problem – in the earl’s life, but that isn’t what makes things complicated. Rather, it’s the attraction she and Eric feel toward one another that threatens to turn both their worlds upside down. A romance between an earl and his daughter’s governess is a dangerous proposition, but some passions burn too hot to be ignored…
The Governess Was Wanton is a delightful historical romance with a Cinderella twist. This second book in Julia Kelly’s Governess series is fast-paced, sweet, and engaging, thanks mostly to the endearing lead characters.
It’s clear from the start that Mary and Eric make a great match. They’re both intelligent, hardworking, caring people and if it weren’t for the difference in their stations, no one would bat an eyelash at the two of them falling in love. But since this is 1850s London, the two of them are rocked by their initial physical attraction to one another. Eric is honorable to a fault and would never abuse his position of power by seducing Mary. For her part, Mary knows that to give into her desires would lead to her ruin. The sexual tension is electric, but it’s their growing emotional attachment and the way they come fully into their own in each other’s company that really sold me on their love story. Add in some fairytale villains and a lovely teenage fairy godmother and you have a solidly entertaining story. There may not be much that’s fresh or new about The Governess Was Wanton , but it is unquestionably entertaining. Ms. Kelly has a smooth writing style, the dialogue was excellent, and the characters made me smile more than once. I adored Mary and Eric’s romance from beginning to end and I’m looking forward to re-reading it in the near future.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Mary Woodward is a highly sought-after governess with a talent for guiding her charges through the season and promoting good matches. Eric Bromford, the fourth Earl of Asten, is a father at his wit’s end and desperate for Mary’s services. Eric isn’t your typical lord. He’s widower and a doting father who cares very much for his daughter’s happiness, education, and general well-being. He simply cannot understand why Eleanora is suddenly unhappy and picking fights with him, which is when Mary enters the picture. Mary is quick to spot the problem – or rather the people causing the problem – in the earl’s life, but that isn’t what makes things complicated. Rather, it’s the attraction she and Eric feel toward one another that threatens to turn both their worlds upside down. A romance between an earl and his daughter’s governess is a dangerous proposition, but some passions burn too hot to be ignored…
The Governess Was Wanton is a delightful historical romance with a Cinderella twist. This second book in Julia Kelly’s Governess series is fast-paced, sweet, and engaging, thanks mostly to the endearing lead characters.
It’s clear from the start that Mary and Eric make a great match. They’re both intelligent, hardworking, caring people and if it weren’t for the difference in their stations, no one would bat an eyelash at the two of them falling in love. But since this is 1850s London, the two of them are rocked by their initial physical attraction to one another. Eric is honorable to a fault and would never abuse his position of power by seducing Mary. For her part, Mary knows that to give into her desires would lead to her ruin. The sexual tension is electric, but it’s their growing emotional attachment and the way they come fully into their own in each other’s company that really sold me on their love story. Add in some fairytale villains and a lovely teenage fairy godmother and you have a solidly entertaining story. There may not be much that’s fresh or new about The Governess Was Wanton , but it is unquestionably entertaining. Ms. Kelly has a smooth writing style, the dialogue was excellent, and the characters made me smile more than once. I adored Mary and Eric’s romance from beginning to end and I’m looking forward to re-reading it in the near future.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 10, 2016
London - 1857
Mary Woodward, age 32, is an experienced governess whose new position tasks her to guide a young debutante through her first season. Mary has such a good reputation that she is often referred to as the Fairy Godmother of Belgravia. Her new position is as governess to Lady Eleanora.
Lady Eleanora, age 17, is the daughter of the wealthy, widowed Earl of Aston. The Earl is concerned about his daughter because she seems to be quite unhappy and lacks the enthusiasm needed to take her through the season and to find a husband. The Earl is a powerful political figure in the House of Lords. He is constantly being visited by Lady Laughlin, a widowed and old friend of his late wife. She has two daughters of her own entering their seasons as well. The woman is constantly dropping in unexpectedly, giving orders to the Earl’s staff, and making snide remarks to Eleanora to make her own daughters look good.
When Mary suggests to the Earl that perhaps Eleanora thinks that he is going to marry Lady Laughlin, he is shocked declaring that marriage is not what he wants.
The Earl is very impressed with Mary’s credentials and how she and Eleanora get along well as Mary is slowly able to interest the girl into attending soirees. Eleanora has been very well-educated. Some of her instruction has been via her father.
Mary finds the Earl to be a very handsome man, but knows to keep his distance. Ironically, he feels the same way.
One night, Eleanora convinces Mary to attend a masked ball where she is not known to anyone. When she waltzes with the Earl and they step outside for some fresh air, magic happens.
Is there a chance for them or is Mary destined to always be a governess?
I really loved this book. The characters of Mary, Eleanora and the Earl really grab the reader making you like them. I hope others will read this book. It is one that you do not want to miss.
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Mary Woodward, age 32, is an experienced governess whose new position tasks her to guide a young debutante through her first season. Mary has such a good reputation that she is often referred to as the Fairy Godmother of Belgravia. Her new position is as governess to Lady Eleanora.
Lady Eleanora, age 17, is the daughter of the wealthy, widowed Earl of Aston. The Earl is concerned about his daughter because she seems to be quite unhappy and lacks the enthusiasm needed to take her through the season and to find a husband. The Earl is a powerful political figure in the House of Lords. He is constantly being visited by Lady Laughlin, a widowed and old friend of his late wife. She has two daughters of her own entering their seasons as well. The woman is constantly dropping in unexpectedly, giving orders to the Earl’s staff, and making snide remarks to Eleanora to make her own daughters look good.
When Mary suggests to the Earl that perhaps Eleanora thinks that he is going to marry Lady Laughlin, he is shocked declaring that marriage is not what he wants.
The Earl is very impressed with Mary’s credentials and how she and Eleanora get along well as Mary is slowly able to interest the girl into attending soirees. Eleanora has been very well-educated. Some of her instruction has been via her father.
Mary finds the Earl to be a very handsome man, but knows to keep his distance. Ironically, he feels the same way.
One night, Eleanora convinces Mary to attend a masked ball where she is not known to anyone. When she waltzes with the Earl and they step outside for some fresh air, magic happens.
Is there a chance for them or is Mary destined to always be a governess?
I really loved this book. The characters of Mary, Eleanora and the Earl really grab the reader making you like them. I hope others will read this book. It is one that you do not want to miss.
Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 15, 2019
Mary Woodward is the fairy godmother of governesses because she isn’t afraid to put her foot down with her charges—and their parents. Eric Bromford, the Earl of Asten, is at a loss as to how to handle his daughter, who has been withdrawn and moody of late. He hires Mary to get to the bottom of his daughter’s strange behavior. Never would he have expected her to change his own attitude, reawakening a passion long forgotten. But respectable governesses don’t dally with their employers. Will they be able to resist temptation?
As a personal rule, I never call anything perfect, but I’m sorely tempted with this book. The characters were endearing (except the Laughlins, blech) and quite down-to-earth. Mary’s fear of abandonment was subtle, giving her more dignity. She, Lady Eleanora, and Asten all had complete arc, beginning with weakness that they conquered by the end. Asten! He had a wonderful sense of humor! He had a couple of one-liners that made me laugh out loud. And I loved that he and Mary were not only physically attracted to one another, but very attracted to one another’s characteristics as well. They became friends as well as lovers.
And the elements of Cinderella? Also subtle. I found it charming.
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As a personal rule, I never call anything perfect, but I’m sorely tempted with this book. The characters were endearing (except the Laughlins, blech) and quite down-to-earth. Mary’s fear of abandonment was subtle, giving her more dignity. She, Lady Eleanora, and Asten all had complete arc, beginning with weakness that they conquered by the end. Asten! He had a wonderful sense of humor! He had a couple of one-liners that made me laugh out loud. And I loved that he and Mary were not only physically attracted to one another, but very attracted to one another’s characteristics as well. They became friends as well as lovers.
And the elements of Cinderella? Also subtle. I found it charming.
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September 26, 2016
Another lovely novella about three governess friends! I enjoyed Julia Kelly's first book in the series and I enjoyed the second one as well. Mary has been a governess for fourteen years, she has never once been tempted to break rules as she is when she meets the father of her newest charge - Eric, Lord Asten.
Eric is enthralled by Mary as well, but he refuses to seduce a woman under his employ. He understands the rules as well, but when he sees a woman at a masquerade that reminds him of his daughters' very seductive, very proper governess - he can't help but seduce her into a moonlight kiss.
There is great chemistry between Eric and Mary. I really did enjoy reading their story, they were so wonderful together and their story heated up my Kindle!! Lots of passion and steam for a novella.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
Eric is enthralled by Mary as well, but he refuses to seduce a woman under his employ. He understands the rules as well, but when he sees a woman at a masquerade that reminds him of his daughters' very seductive, very proper governess - he can't help but seduce her into a moonlight kiss.
There is great chemistry between Eric and Mary. I really did enjoy reading their story, they were so wonderful together and their story heated up my Kindle!! Lots of passion and steam for a novella.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 27, 2016
I liked this very much. Good feeling read, likeable father and daughter characters. A most enjoyable read.
4****
4****
November 13, 2017
Mary, possibly one of the best governess's available responds to a letter of the wealthy Earl of Asten. He no longer knows how to reach his daughter, who seems to have retreated into herself in the last few months. But when Mary arrives she immediately feels a pull the the handsome Earl. She's further taken by surprise when she realizes that the attraction is reciprocated. But an Earl with a governess? It's unheard of.
I really enjoyed the dialogue in this novel. The story in itself was very Cinderella-like, but the dialogue made it really fun and fresh. Especially that between Mary and her charge. The moments where Mary stands up to the horrible Lady Laughlin. She could have caused a lot more harm in the novel, but Mary knew how to nip it in the bud.
Though once again the characters fell in love too quickly, it's novella length, plus the cuteness of the story allowed me to set those frustrations aside. A wonderful read to pass the time.
I really enjoyed the dialogue in this novel. The story in itself was very Cinderella-like, but the dialogue made it really fun and fresh. Especially that between Mary and her charge. The moments where Mary stands up to the horrible Lady Laughlin. She could have caused a lot more harm in the novel, but Mary knew how to nip it in the bud.
Though once again the characters fell in love too quickly, it's novella length, plus the cuteness of the story allowed me to set those frustrations aside. A wonderful read to pass the time.
August 29, 2022
Segui tre migliori amici che navigano tra amore e indipendenza come governanti nell'Inghilterra Reggenza in questa puntata deliziosamente affascinante della serie Governesses.
Mary Woodward, una giovane istitutrice veterana, ha un lavoro: guidare una giovane debuttante nella sua prima stagione nell'alta società. E fino ad ora, tenerla a bada ed evitare la tentazione è stato facile. Ma mai prima d'ora il padre della sua giovane stirpe è stato diabolicamente bello come il ricco e single conte di Asten... Convinta di rischiare tutto, Mary si concede una notte di magia a un ballo in maschera tra le braccia di Asten, ma lo farà entrambi rimpiangono tutto quando il conte scopre la sua vera identità?
Mary Woodward, una giovane istitutrice veterana, ha un lavoro: guidare una giovane debuttante nella sua prima stagione nell'alta società. E fino ad ora, tenerla a bada ed evitare la tentazione è stato facile. Ma mai prima d'ora il padre della sua giovane stirpe è stato diabolicamente bello come il ricco e single conte di Asten... Convinta di rischiare tutto, Mary si concede una notte di magia a un ballo in maschera tra le braccia di Asten, ma lo farà entrambi rimpiangono tutto quando il conte scopre la sua vera identità?
November 28, 2016
Mary Woodward is a governess with a gift, she helps young women of the ton find the right man to marry, who loves them. Her latest charge has an extremely handsome father, the Earl of Asten, who happens to be single although he has no desire to marry again. While she helps Eleanora overcome her social anxiety and impediments to finding her true love, Mary falls for the Earl. This romance is full of passion with a dash of humorous moments.
August 7, 2017
GREAT REGENCY ROMANCE
A very good and exciting love story. Sometimes desire hits you between the eyes and it takes all your control to not give in. They both lied to themselves when they thought just a taste would satisfy them. We loved it, thank you, Danny and Debbie Scott.
A very good and exciting love story. Sometimes desire hits you between the eyes and it takes all your control to not give in. They both lied to themselves when they thought just a taste would satisfy them. We loved it, thank you, Danny and Debbie Scott.
September 8, 2017
Well done, creative, with woman that does not shy from what they want when the time is right, the main character is strong, and finally some one right about women that are older than 17 or 21 years old girls.
May 24, 2021
It’s so insta-love, my head was spinning. I didn’t realize it was a novella until I saw the page count at the halfway mark, so I guess that’s why their relationship progressed so quickly. There wasn’t a whole lot of depth to the story, but for a novella, it was pretty good.
September 1, 2017
3.5 stars
January 3, 2021
This was such a cute story and I found it romantic!
May 11, 2024
Should have been a full length novel
August 4, 2024
3.5 Low angst. Quick read. A little fast with the pacing. A little too insta-love for my taste.
November 2, 2016
This narrative was fun, kinda traditional, and enjoyable to read. I loved the main character.
October 10, 2016
For the second book in The Governess series, an inventive rewriting of the Cinderella story results in an enchanting romantic tale. Though this plot has been retold in countless ways, Julia Kelly makes her story shine with her own original ideas. I am always fascinated to see how an author will incorporate new concepts into an often told storyline, and the new imaginings of Ms. Kelly had me smiling quite a few times. Filled with lots of heartwarming situations and genuine emotions, THE GOVERNESS WAS WANTON is pleasurably enjoyable.
As a governess, Mary Woodward helps prepare young women to be acceptable in society and have a successful season. When her latest charge became engaged, it was time to let perspective families know she could now be hired once more. A letter from Lord Asten makes her want to assist his daughter who sounds shy and possibly sad, so she takes the position. Mary truly wants the young lady to actually enjoy herself while possibly meeting her future husband. Though being around the widowed Earl of Asten will not be easy for her, as he is very desirable and makes her have forbidden yearnings.
Eric Bromford is an earl plus her employer, and though he is definitely intrigued with Mary, he always respects anyone who works for him. The new governess does all she can to entice his daughter into following her instructions, making him very grateful for her cleverness. But when Mary agrees to an impulsive suggestion, her life and that of the earl’s could be forever changed.
Distinctive characters in THE GOVERNESS WAS WANTON have realistic emotions and traits. If a woman had no family and was not married, then her life was regularly filled with much uncertainty during the mid-1800’s in England, and she was also frequently snubbed by the rich for being beneath them. Though a governess was often educated like Mary, there was little prospect of being highly regarded because of having to work. But she still had dreams of being with a man who really cared for her, and Lord Asten definitely triggered lots of explicit fantasies. While he may be a very important person in society, his down-to-earth ways made him come across as a man whom I admired, especially in how concerned he was about his daughter. Mary always took a personal interest in her charges, and I enjoyed seeing how she stood up for what was right. I was certainly happy when she did her best to improve what was happening to the young woman, and the way in which she carries out her duties made me like her more and more with each new incident.
The relationship between Mary and Eric is filled with complications, and each one could keep them apart. She knows any type of personal interaction with her employer could lead to dismissal, and it might perhaps ruin her chances of ever finding another job as a governess. Yet with his caring nature and friendly manner, she cannot stop the visions of them sharing a sexual encounter. Eric feels drawn to her when they first meet, but his strict code of honor prevents him from making any kind of advances. But like Mary, he has a vivid imagination. Julia Kelly makes the reality very steamy. One more governess has a story to tell, and I am eager to see what predicaments she will face.
Received copy from publisher via NetGalley
As a governess, Mary Woodward helps prepare young women to be acceptable in society and have a successful season. When her latest charge became engaged, it was time to let perspective families know she could now be hired once more. A letter from Lord Asten makes her want to assist his daughter who sounds shy and possibly sad, so she takes the position. Mary truly wants the young lady to actually enjoy herself while possibly meeting her future husband. Though being around the widowed Earl of Asten will not be easy for her, as he is very desirable and makes her have forbidden yearnings.
Eric Bromford is an earl plus her employer, and though he is definitely intrigued with Mary, he always respects anyone who works for him. The new governess does all she can to entice his daughter into following her instructions, making him very grateful for her cleverness. But when Mary agrees to an impulsive suggestion, her life and that of the earl’s could be forever changed.
Distinctive characters in THE GOVERNESS WAS WANTON have realistic emotions and traits. If a woman had no family and was not married, then her life was regularly filled with much uncertainty during the mid-1800’s in England, and she was also frequently snubbed by the rich for being beneath them. Though a governess was often educated like Mary, there was little prospect of being highly regarded because of having to work. But she still had dreams of being with a man who really cared for her, and Lord Asten definitely triggered lots of explicit fantasies. While he may be a very important person in society, his down-to-earth ways made him come across as a man whom I admired, especially in how concerned he was about his daughter. Mary always took a personal interest in her charges, and I enjoyed seeing how she stood up for what was right. I was certainly happy when she did her best to improve what was happening to the young woman, and the way in which she carries out her duties made me like her more and more with each new incident.
The relationship between Mary and Eric is filled with complications, and each one could keep them apart. She knows any type of personal interaction with her employer could lead to dismissal, and it might perhaps ruin her chances of ever finding another job as a governess. Yet with his caring nature and friendly manner, she cannot stop the visions of them sharing a sexual encounter. Eric feels drawn to her when they first meet, but his strict code of honor prevents him from making any kind of advances. But like Mary, he has a vivid imagination. Julia Kelly makes the reality very steamy. One more governess has a story to tell, and I am eager to see what predicaments she will face.
Received copy from publisher via NetGalley
October 13, 2016
3.5 stars.
This is a far more traditional governess/lord tale than the last, where the impediment is believable. Mary is a very proper woman and successful in her profession, while Asten is honourable and would never touch a woman in his employ. Trouble is, there’s this pesky attraction between them and it becomes rather hard to resist.
I enjoyed this one much more than The Governess Was Wicked, partly because there was a genuine reason why these two couldn’t be together, but also because Mary is a believable governess who genuinely cares about her charge. There’s more than a touch of Cinderella about it, and I enjoyed the bond that grew between Mary and Eleanora.
There are a few things here and there that I didn’t enjoy so much. Because of the short length of the book, it’s very much an insta-lust/love and the main characters don’t get to spend a whole lot of time together. Mary’s also very knowledgeable for a sheltered spinster. I’m also dubious about her claim to be a gentleman’s daughter, since her father (and his family) were wealthy but also still in trade, which isn’t the same thing. I’m also surprised at the lack of angst surrounding the idea of an earl marrying his daughter’s governess. But then this is a fairly quick read, so I can see why there wouldn’t have been time for too much of that.
Overall I enjoyed this. It’s a quick, easy read that doesn’t delve too deeply into the strictures of society, but still provides an entertaining romance with a nice bit of heat and a hint of historical manners. I look forward to seeing what the third and final story has to offer.
(My thanks to Pocket Star and NetGalley for providing this ARC.)
This is a far more traditional governess/lord tale than the last, where the impediment is believable. Mary is a very proper woman and successful in her profession, while Asten is honourable and would never touch a woman in his employ. Trouble is, there’s this pesky attraction between them and it becomes rather hard to resist.
I enjoyed this one much more than The Governess Was Wicked, partly because there was a genuine reason why these two couldn’t be together, but also because Mary is a believable governess who genuinely cares about her charge. There’s more than a touch of Cinderella about it, and I enjoyed the bond that grew between Mary and Eleanora.
There are a few things here and there that I didn’t enjoy so much. Because of the short length of the book, it’s very much an insta-lust/love and the main characters don’t get to spend a whole lot of time together. Mary’s also very knowledgeable for a sheltered spinster. I’m also dubious about her claim to be a gentleman’s daughter, since her father (and his family) were wealthy but also still in trade, which isn’t the same thing. I’m also surprised at the lack of angst surrounding the idea of an earl marrying his daughter’s governess. But then this is a fairly quick read, so I can see why there wouldn’t have been time for too much of that.
Overall I enjoyed this. It’s a quick, easy read that doesn’t delve too deeply into the strictures of society, but still provides an entertaining romance with a nice bit of heat and a hint of historical manners. I look forward to seeing what the third and final story has to offer.
(My thanks to Pocket Star and NetGalley for providing this ARC.)
October 22, 2016
The Governess Was Wicked and The Governess Was Wanton
Elizabeth Porter and Mary Woodward, friends and governesses, are ladies who must earn a living. Each is resigned to a life of raising and instructing children who are not their own, moving from family to family, subject to the whims of their charges’ parents. While caring for two girls, Elizabeth (Wicked) falls for a young doctor, Edward Fellows, and debates allowing him more than a kiss despite the peril of being dismissed without a character. Later, Mary (Wanton) catches the eye of her employer, the Earl of Asten, but must contend with his widow’s former friend, a commanding lady of the aristocracy, who has her eye on the earl. Both Elizabeth and Mary risk losing their positions and reputations by following their hearts, but to break free of societal constraints, they will have to dare to live a different life.
Verdict Kelly (One Week in Hawaii) deftly balances the wistful dreams of her protagonists with humor and competence. Readers cannot help but empathize and be cheered by these hardworking, underappreciated women respecting themselves enough to realize they deserve more out of life. Each novella is a short but sweet indulgence for any fan of rags-to-riches romance.
This review was originally published in Library Journal Xpress Reviews: E-Originals, August 4, 2016.
Elizabeth Porter and Mary Woodward, friends and governesses, are ladies who must earn a living. Each is resigned to a life of raising and instructing children who are not their own, moving from family to family, subject to the whims of their charges’ parents. While caring for two girls, Elizabeth (Wicked) falls for a young doctor, Edward Fellows, and debates allowing him more than a kiss despite the peril of being dismissed without a character. Later, Mary (Wanton) catches the eye of her employer, the Earl of Asten, but must contend with his widow’s former friend, a commanding lady of the aristocracy, who has her eye on the earl. Both Elizabeth and Mary risk losing their positions and reputations by following their hearts, but to break free of societal constraints, they will have to dare to live a different life.
Verdict Kelly (One Week in Hawaii) deftly balances the wistful dreams of her protagonists with humor and competence. Readers cannot help but empathize and be cheered by these hardworking, underappreciated women respecting themselves enough to realize they deserve more out of life. Each novella is a short but sweet indulgence for any fan of rags-to-riches romance.
This review was originally published in Library Journal Xpress Reviews: E-Originals, August 4, 2016.
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