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The Nonesuch
At the age of five-and-thirty, Sir Waldo Hawkridge, wealthy, handsome, eligible, illustrious, and known as the nonesuch for his athletic prowess, and when he comes north to inspect his unusual inheritance at Broom hall in the West Riding, his arrival leads to the most entertaining of ramifications. When they learned that Sir Waldo was coming, the village gentry were thrown into a flurry. The famed sportsman himself! Heir to an uncounted fortune, and a leader of London society! The local youths idolized "the Nonesuch"; the fathers disapproved; and the mothers and daughters saw him as the most eligible--and elusive--man in the kingdom.
While there, he meets Tiffany Wield, a positively dazzling young heiress who is entirely selfish and possessed of a frightful temper, as well as her far more elegant companion-governess. Twenty-eight year old Ancilla Trent had put away any and all thoughts of romance when she became a governess, and at first she could only be amused at the fuss over Sir Waldo. Can Sir Waldo convince the practical Miss Trent that it is not above her station as a governess to fall in love with him?
While there, he meets Tiffany Wield, a positively dazzling young heiress who is entirely selfish and possessed of a frightful temper, as well as her far more elegant companion-governess. Twenty-eight year old Ancilla Trent had put away any and all thoughts of romance when she became a governess, and at first she could only be amused at the fuss over Sir Waldo. Can Sir Waldo convince the practical Miss Trent that it is not above her station as a governess to fall in love with him?
320 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1962
619 people are currently reading
4182 people want to read
About the author
Georgette Heyer
245 books5,500 followersGeorgette Heyer was a prolific historical romance and detective fiction novelist. Her writing career began in 1921, when she turned a story for her younger brother into the novel The Black Moth.
In 1925 she married George Ronald Rougier, a mining engineer. Rougier later became a barrister and he often provided basic plot outlines for her thrillers. Beginning in 1932, Heyer released one romance novel and one thriller each year.
Heyer was an intensely private person who remained a best selling author all her life without the aid of publicity. She made no appearances, never gave an interview and only answered fan letters herself if they made an interesting historical point. She wrote one novel using the pseudonym Stella Martin.
Her Georgian and Regencies romances were inspired by Jane Austen. While some critics thought her novels were too detailed, others considered the level of detail to be Heyer's greatest asset.
Heyer remains a popular and much-loved author, known for essentially establishing the historical romance genre and its subgenre Regency romance.
In 1925 she married George Ronald Rougier, a mining engineer. Rougier later became a barrister and he often provided basic plot outlines for her thrillers. Beginning in 1932, Heyer released one romance novel and one thriller each year.
Heyer was an intensely private person who remained a best selling author all her life without the aid of publicity. She made no appearances, never gave an interview and only answered fan letters herself if they made an interesting historical point. She wrote one novel using the pseudonym Stella Martin.
Her Georgian and Regencies romances were inspired by Jane Austen. While some critics thought her novels were too detailed, others considered the level of detail to be Heyer's greatest asset.
Heyer remains a popular and much-loved author, known for essentially establishing the historical romance genre and its subgenre Regency romance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 960 reviews
October 6, 2019
ETA: Upping my rating to a solid 4 stars on reread. The things that bothered me most the first time I read this bothered me less this time around. I was able to be more amused by Tiffany the spoiled brat, not just annoyed. It’s pretty funny to see how Sir Waldo and Miss Trent manage her.
I don't always love Georgette Heyer's heroes and heroines, but The Nonesuch has a very likable pair (even if their names make me wince): the witty, intelligent and kind Sir Waldo, who is also young and handsome (though you wouldn't guess it from his name) and the honorable, even-tempered and also intelligent Ancilla Trent, a lady in Reduced Circumstances who is now working as a governess. Ancilla is a capable, sensible person - my kind of heroine! - who knows how to manage a situation even when others around her are losing their heads.
With such a highly rational pair, the craziness has to break out in this book somewhere, and it does so in the form of Tiffany Wield, Miss Trent's charge, whose beauty drives the local young men to distraction and who is the most amazingly spoiled brat you'll ever have the dubious pleasure of meeting in literature. Tiffany's behavior is way over the top; she acts more like a particularly bratty 6 year old than a 17 year old. I got thoroughly tired of reading about her antics. Luckily she doesn't fool either Waldo or Miss Trent. Still: minus one star for Too. Much. Tiffany.
The other reason this isn't one of my favorite GH books: about 3/4 of the way through we get hit with that old Regency romance trope, the Big Misunderstanding. Happily, most of the time between the start of the misunderstanding and when it gets resolved is spent on other topics (Tiffany, of course), so the reader isn't put through the usual amount of agony. I give Heyer props for that. Still, it's a pretty far-fetched and, of course, unnecessary misunderstanding. The use of this trope - by far my least favorite plot device in the romance genre - made me knock part of another star off its rating.
If you can find Tiffany amusing or at least give her shenanigans a pass, I think this is one of Heyer’s better novels.
Favorite quote: "Mr Culver's carefully arranged locks were too lavishly pomaded to rise on end, but his eyes showed a tendency to start from their sockets."
I don't always love Georgette Heyer's heroes and heroines, but The Nonesuch has a very likable pair (even if their names make me wince): the witty, intelligent and kind Sir Waldo, who is also young and handsome (though you wouldn't guess it from his name) and the honorable, even-tempered and also intelligent Ancilla Trent, a lady in Reduced Circumstances who is now working as a governess. Ancilla is a capable, sensible person - my kind of heroine! - who knows how to manage a situation even when others around her are losing their heads.
With such a highly rational pair, the craziness has to break out in this book somewhere, and it does so in the form of Tiffany Wield, Miss Trent's charge, whose beauty drives the local young men to distraction and who is the most amazingly spoiled brat you'll ever have the dubious pleasure of meeting in literature. Tiffany's behavior is way over the top; she acts more like a particularly bratty 6 year old than a 17 year old. I got thoroughly tired of reading about her antics. Luckily she doesn't fool either Waldo or Miss Trent. Still: minus one star for Too. Much. Tiffany.
The other reason this isn't one of my favorite GH books: about 3/4 of the way through we get hit with that old Regency romance trope, the Big Misunderstanding. Happily, most of the time between the start of the misunderstanding and when it gets resolved is spent on other topics (Tiffany, of course), so the reader isn't put through the usual amount of agony. I give Heyer props for that. Still, it's a pretty far-fetched and, of course, unnecessary misunderstanding. The use of this trope - by far my least favorite plot device in the romance genre - made me knock part of another star off its rating.
If you can find Tiffany amusing or at least give her shenanigans a pass, I think this is one of Heyer’s better novels.
Favorite quote: "Mr Culver's carefully arranged locks were too lavishly pomaded to rise on end, but his eyes showed a tendency to start from their sockets."
October 25, 2025
4,5 stars rounded up because I enjoyed the hell out of this book despite the bit OTT misunderstanding and the abrupt ending.
With this review, I also crown Sir Waldo as my (so far) favourite Heyer hero.
I think my original meeting with Heyer books started on a rather Pride and Prejudice-y note. I tought her books "tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt ME."
As an Austen fan, I should have known better, right? Right.
After having recently finishedThe Grand Sophy, A Civil Contract and Georgette Heyer: Biography of a Bestseller, I have seen the error of my ways and revised my previous, intolerable stance. And The Nonesuch just gave further impetus to my admiration.
Plus this provides me with a great opportunity to generously scatter Colin Firth, Bridgerton and Tom Hiddleston (wrong time period, but who could resist?!) gifs throughout my review.
And by this time I am absolutely ready to be continuing with a Heyer-reading spree, including giving all her formerly read books a second try:
And I am like:
Sir Waldo Hawkridge (despite the rather ridiculous surname) is an epitome of suaveness: courteous, elegant; gracious and sophisticated.
Once again, wrong dress and period, but you get my mental image, I guess. :)
He is referred to as a Corinthian, who (and I am quoting from https://janeausten.co.uk/blogs/uncate... ) "This term described the well dressed athlete. A Corinthian was a man who...generally excelled in all the sporting pursuits including fencing, single-stick, boxing, hunting, shooting and tooling his carriage--usually a curricle--preferably with the kind of skill that would see him admitted to the Four-Horse Club. He would also be a man of good character, addicted to all forms of sport, at home with all classes and able to cut a dash at Almack's or blow a cloud with the roughest pugilist at Cribb's Parlour."
With this review, I also crown Sir Waldo as my (so far) favourite Heyer hero.
I think my original meeting with Heyer books started on a rather Pride and Prejudice-y note. I tought her books "tolerable, but not handsome enough to tempt ME."
As an Austen fan, I should have known better, right? Right.
After having recently finishedThe Grand Sophy, A Civil Contract and Georgette Heyer: Biography of a Bestseller, I have seen the error of my ways and revised my previous, intolerable stance. And The Nonesuch just gave further impetus to my admiration.
Plus this provides me with a great opportunity to generously scatter Colin Firth, Bridgerton and Tom Hiddleston (wrong time period, but who could resist?!) gifs throughout my review.
And by this time I am absolutely ready to be continuing with a Heyer-reading spree, including giving all her formerly read books a second try:
And I am like:
Sir Waldo Hawkridge (despite the rather ridiculous surname) is an epitome of suaveness: courteous, elegant; gracious and sophisticated.
Once again, wrong dress and period, but you get my mental image, I guess. :)
He is referred to as a Corinthian, who (and I am quoting from https://janeausten.co.uk/blogs/uncate... ) "This term described the well dressed athlete. A Corinthian was a man who...generally excelled in all the sporting pursuits including fencing, single-stick, boxing, hunting, shooting and tooling his carriage--usually a curricle--preferably with the kind of skill that would see him admitted to the Four-Horse Club. He would also be a man of good character, addicted to all forms of sport, at home with all classes and able to cut a dash at Almack's or blow a cloud with the roughest pugilist at Cribb's Parlour."
May 28, 2018
Georgette Heyer, the lady whose impeccable writing skill was/is/still second to none.
I’m torn about rating this one: on one hand the main couple was terrific and I loved them to bits but on the other hand, this book has THE most annoying character I’ve ever met in Regency novels. And I’m talking as someone who have endured Lydia Bennet in Pride & Prejudice many times over! Lydia doesn’t hold a candle to Miss Tiffany “I’m-too-beautiful-for-this-world” Wield!
I wouldn’t have minded it (her) so much except that she was featured quite prominently throughout the story and with 3xx pages, it got to the point where I had to skim her parts just to keep my will to finish. Because like I said, I wanted to finish, Ancilla and Waldo deserved at least that from me! Oh they were wonderful both as a couple and also as individuals.
rating: ★★★½
I’m torn about rating this one: on one hand the main couple was terrific and I loved them to bits but on the other hand, this book has THE most annoying character I’ve ever met in Regency novels. And I’m talking as someone who have endured Lydia Bennet in Pride & Prejudice many times over! Lydia doesn’t hold a candle to Miss Tiffany “I’m-too-beautiful-for-this-world” Wield!
I wouldn’t have minded it (her) so much except that she was featured quite prominently throughout the story and with 3xx pages, it got to the point where I had to skim her parts just to keep my will to finish. Because like I said, I wanted to finish, Ancilla and Waldo deserved at least that from me! Oh they were wonderful both as a couple and also as individuals.
rating: ★★★½
September 14, 2022
Another nonpareil from Heyer, The Nonesuch, is as her readers expect from her, light and frothy, but founded on a solid romance. The two lovers are Sir Waldo Hawkridge, the society whip, and Miss Trent, a well bred governess. Each brings beauty and common sense to the match. There are side pairings as well, Sir Waldo's young protege and cousin, Julian Lindeth, and the gorgeous, but spoiled, Miss Wield.
This comedy of misunderstandings, and near misses in a carriage and in marriage by inexperienced drivers, is never dull and a ton of fun.
This comedy of misunderstandings, and near misses in a carriage and in marriage by inexperienced drivers, is never dull and a ton of fun.
August 3, 2025
Until the arrival on the scene of the Nonesuch. Her heart had never previously opposed her mind: they seemed now to be in eternal conflict, the one warning her to take care, the other urging her to throw care and discretion to the wind.
The Nonesuch, inheriting a house from his cousin decides to convert it to an orphanage and goes to the village for a week to make some arrangements. He meets a composed governess, smart and elegant but keeping herself at a distance, and ends up staying there much longer. Notwithstanding the antics of a bunch of youngsters, of various tempers in the process.
While it has all the usual ingredients that I've come to expect from a Georgetter Heyer novel like witty writing and a hilarious plot, this one also had a surprising number of sensible people (well, everyone except for one teenager) and quite a bit of charity and good samaritan work not usually seen in this genre. In addition to someone actually holding a job for income. The sensible talk, except from the one teenager that is, proved to be refreshing and the emphasis on general good finance a pleasant surprise!
In addition to all the common sense and resourcefulness, the lead characters also possess a certain wry humour and vivacity indulging in some banter, and their friendship progresses slowly but surely - another thing not seen enough in this genre. The resolution of the plot dragged a bit in the latter half, but the ending proved satisfactory! Most of the other characters are also well written, though the slightly caricature like depiction of the temperamental teenager gets on one's nerves, making sensible a compliment for the others. On the whole, a good read, just what you'd expect from Georgette Heyer!
🌟🌟🌟3/4🌟
[3/4 star for the premise and the whole book; 3/4 star for the characters; Half a star for the world-building; 3/4 a star for the plot and themes; One star for the writing - 3 3/4 stars in total.]
The Nonesuch, inheriting a house from his cousin decides to convert it to an orphanage and goes to the village for a week to make some arrangements. He meets a composed governess, smart and elegant but keeping herself at a distance, and ends up staying there much longer. Notwithstanding the antics of a bunch of youngsters, of various tempers in the process.
While it has all the usual ingredients that I've come to expect from a Georgetter Heyer novel like witty writing and a hilarious plot, this one also had a surprising number of sensible people (well, everyone except for one teenager) and quite a bit of charity and good samaritan work not usually seen in this genre. In addition to someone actually holding a job for income. The sensible talk, except from the one teenager that is, proved to be refreshing and the emphasis on general good finance a pleasant surprise!
In addition to all the common sense and resourcefulness, the lead characters also possess a certain wry humour and vivacity indulging in some banter, and their friendship progresses slowly but surely - another thing not seen enough in this genre. The resolution of the plot dragged a bit in the latter half, but the ending proved satisfactory! Most of the other characters are also well written, though the slightly caricature like depiction of the temperamental teenager gets on one's nerves, making sensible a compliment for the others. On the whole, a good read, just what you'd expect from Georgette Heyer!
🌟🌟🌟3/4🌟
[3/4 star for the premise and the whole book; 3/4 star for the characters; Half a star for the world-building; 3/4 a star for the plot and themes; One star for the writing - 3 3/4 stars in total.]
December 23, 2017
COD’s head, nodcock , rumgumption, canker, toplofty, coxcomb, chuckle-headed, ninnyhammered, fubsy-faced, widgeon, fribble , chuck farthing, miff maff, sapskull , baffle-headed clunch
Who couldn’t enjoy a book with such colourful language? ! I really enjoyed this story. Tiffany was an absolute pain in the arse!
Who couldn’t enjoy a book with such colourful language? ! I really enjoyed this story. Tiffany was an absolute pain in the arse!
August 12, 2025
Just as wonderful as every other time I read it!! Still an absolute favourite.
Still a five star read for me and my favorite Heyer. I love Ancilla and Waldo. Maybe it's the slightly older hero and heroine that appeals so much. My favorite Austen is Persuasion, again a slightly older couple.
Ancilla has a lot to endure. Even though she has a comfortable governess position, her charge is very trying. I utterly disliked Tiffany. She's a horrible, spoiled brat who's totally selfish.
There are some marvelous characters here as usual including Courtenay, Tiffany's cousin. I liked him because he said what he thought and didn't pander to her. He had no trouble putting her in her place and was the only one who seemed to have the courage to do it.
The romance is a very slow burn but all the lovelier for it.
Highly recommend it
Enjoyed it just much this time. My favourite Heyer without a doubt and Waldo is my all time favourite hero!
Still a five star read for me and my favorite Heyer. I love Ancilla and Waldo. Maybe it's the slightly older hero and heroine that appeals so much. My favorite Austen is Persuasion, again a slightly older couple.
Ancilla has a lot to endure. Even though she has a comfortable governess position, her charge is very trying. I utterly disliked Tiffany. She's a horrible, spoiled brat who's totally selfish.
There are some marvelous characters here as usual including Courtenay, Tiffany's cousin. I liked him because he said what he thought and didn't pander to her. He had no trouble putting her in her place and was the only one who seemed to have the courage to do it.
The romance is a very slow burn but all the lovelier for it.
Highly recommend it
Enjoyed it just much this time. My favourite Heyer without a doubt and Waldo is my all time favourite hero!
November 12, 2014
**Contains spoilers!!**
4.5 stars
Things I loved:
1. Sir Waldo - I mean what's not to like?? He's handsome, rich, athletic, virtuous, idolized and a PHILANTHROPIST!! Finally a perfect hero who doesn't cringe at the mere mention of paupers! He wants his newly inherited estate, Broom Hall, to become a school for young orphan boys! Needless to say he won my deepest respect from the first (and managed to keep it!).
2. Ancilla Trent. I LOVED HER!!! She was absolutely amazing! She was so genteel, elegant and sensible, and remained so throughout the story, even when she thought that she was being heedless because Sir Waldo had the disconcerting ability to throw her into flutters. “ She decide that her wisest course would be to put him out of her mind. After reaching this conclusion she lay thinking about him until at last she fell asleep.” I felt extremely bad for her having to watch over that abominable wild-cat, known as Tiffany.
3. Their first meeting. It was Beau.Ti.Ful.!!! Sparks flew all the way! You could feel the electricity in the air when they first looked upon each other! It was very well done.
“Their eyes met, both pairs gray, hers very cool and clear, his faintly smiling”
4. Lord Lindeth ending up with Miss Chartley; they were both my favourite secondary characters and as soon as it was hinted at that they had the possibility of becoming a couple, I was all "Oh please, please Miss Heyer! Please have the presence of mind to make them end up together! To the devil with Tiffany!!". I was immensely scared that Tiffany would win Lindeth.
5. Miss Chartley. She was awesome, from the few glimpses we had of her. I loved the episode in Leeds. Way to go Patience! She deserved a lot more attention than she got (from the characters and from Miss Heyer!) and should’ve been more into the spotlight than annoying, vexatious Tiffany.
6. Sir Waldo and Miss Trent waltzing!!! "With you or no one!" Gasp!!! SWOON!!!
7. The simple plot! As much as I enjoy Heyer’s overpacked plots of cross-dressing/duels/gambling/drinking/elopements with wealthy handsome noblemen wearing wigs and mincing around on high heels, carrying fans, I really liked the calmer, country feel-good atmosphere of a good ol’ Regency comedy of manners taking place under the oh-so-hot sun of a Yorkshire summer.
8. The Regency slang. Heyer went full out in this one! Most of the time it was pretty easy to use the context to determine the meaning of words/sentences, but I admit that there were a few instances when I didn’t particularly understand what was being said. But overall I really enjoyed it! Heyer sure knew how to write! Some of my favourite: “chuckfarthing fellow”, “Town Tulip”, “Top-of-the-Trees”, “nambypamby nonsense”, “ninny-hammer” and my new favourite expression “making a cake of oneself”!!!!
Things that annoyed me:
1. Tiffany. She was just plainly atrociously IN.TO.LE.RA.BLE. As much as I appreciate villains and selfish, shallow characters, she was just too much!!And the fact that she was beautiful only made it worse! She didn’t deserve it! Which brings me to
2. Every. Single. Man dangling around her!!! It was so irritating to hear of so-and-so going after Miss Wield and so-and-so being jealous, and then Sir Waldo (yes, Sir Waldo!!!!!!) giving her encouragement from time to time! Of course we know that he is by no means taking in with her, but still! I would have loved to hear instead that he was the one man who refrained from flirting with her, even if he wanted to “teach her a lesson”.
3. Speaking of which, she never does learn her lesson!!! She gets what she wants in the end!!!! SHE GOES TO LONDON!!!! Well, I was only glad for the sake of everyone else, particularly the Staples folk, that they were to be rid of her!
4. Miss Trent pretending that she isn’t in love with the Nonesuch when he proposes to her, because she thinks he has a bunch of illegitimate children!!! Of all the absurdities! And, what was very upsetting, the fact that she WON’T ASK HIM POINT-BLANK WHAT EXACLTY IT MEANS THAT HE HAD WRETCHED BRATS!!! Ah! I know that she was very picky with the proprieties, but come on! She could have found a way to ask him tactfully what was up! But no! Instead he had to be rejected, when it had been so obvious that he was as virtuous and straitlaced as she was, and so profoundly in love with her!! Poor Sir Waldo!!
5. As much as I love the Regency and its customs and manners, I can’t help but being a trifle annoyed at the exaggeration as to what is sometimes considered an “impropriety”. No lady can do anything by herself, but God forbid she asks the help of any gentleman for she is sure then of being reproached of setting her cap at him, which would be even worse! That part when some of the old matrons are gossiping about how Miss Trent is trying to catch Sir Waldo was too much to bear! All because they danced (twice! Oh, my Lord! How improper!), and he lead her on his arm to supper, and then later in the evening wrapped a shawl around her. It wasn’t as though they were seen making out on the terrace! And besides, as it never occurred to them, that hum, hello, maybe the reason for Sir Waldo’s singling Miss Trent out might be that he is IN LOVE WITH HER?!?!? Why else would he flirt with the governess?!?
6. The word lief. It was decidedly over-used. I don’t mind the abuse of “devil” or “devilish” or “damn” or “dash”, but if I come across “lief” again!! Argh!!!
7. The fact that we are never given any insight into Sir Waldo’s developing passion for Miss Trent. We all know he’s falling for her, and as much as I appreciate Heyer’s “show don’t tell”, I would have liked a tad bit more of what was going on inside his head. We read about Miss Trent’s developing feelings, so why not his? I wanted to know from his perspective why he had fallen in love with Ancilla. We got what Laurie thought on the matter! Like, who cared about Laurie, right?!?
8. The ending. If I can even call it that. I know Heyer loves to wrap things up pretty quickly, as though she thinks that after the hero and heroine have kissed it’s time to end the story as quickly as she can, lest she should be tempted to get them into bed- action (LOL I don’t think so! I’m kidding she wouldn’t!), but really?!? That was exaggerated! A little bit more interaction between the two lovers after they are agreed to get married! I am reviewing the book right now, but I still feel like I haven’t finished it!
When all’s said and done, however, my annoyances weren’t so profound as to out-weigh my overall enjoyment of The Nonesuch. The book was a marvel. Whatever I’m going to read next might seem pretty poor after this!
4.5 stars
Things I loved:
1. Sir Waldo - I mean what's not to like?? He's handsome, rich, athletic, virtuous, idolized and a PHILANTHROPIST!! Finally a perfect hero who doesn't cringe at the mere mention of paupers! He wants his newly inherited estate, Broom Hall, to become a school for young orphan boys! Needless to say he won my deepest respect from the first (and managed to keep it!).
2. Ancilla Trent. I LOVED HER!!! She was absolutely amazing! She was so genteel, elegant and sensible, and remained so throughout the story, even when she thought that she was being heedless because Sir Waldo had the disconcerting ability to throw her into flutters. “ She decide that her wisest course would be to put him out of her mind. After reaching this conclusion she lay thinking about him until at last she fell asleep.” I felt extremely bad for her having to watch over that abominable wild-cat, known as Tiffany.
3. Their first meeting. It was Beau.Ti.Ful.!!! Sparks flew all the way! You could feel the electricity in the air when they first looked upon each other! It was very well done.
“Their eyes met, both pairs gray, hers very cool and clear, his faintly smiling”
4. Lord Lindeth ending up with Miss Chartley; they were both my favourite secondary characters and as soon as it was hinted at that they had the possibility of becoming a couple, I was all "Oh please, please Miss Heyer! Please have the presence of mind to make them end up together! To the devil with Tiffany!!". I was immensely scared that Tiffany would win Lindeth.
5. Miss Chartley. She was awesome, from the few glimpses we had of her. I loved the episode in Leeds. Way to go Patience! She deserved a lot more attention than she got (from the characters and from Miss Heyer!) and should’ve been more into the spotlight than annoying, vexatious Tiffany.
6. Sir Waldo and Miss Trent waltzing!!! "With you or no one!" Gasp!!! SWOON!!!
7. The simple plot! As much as I enjoy Heyer’s overpacked plots of cross-dressing/duels/gambling/drinking/elopements with wealthy handsome noblemen wearing wigs and mincing around on high heels, carrying fans, I really liked the calmer, country feel-good atmosphere of a good ol’ Regency comedy of manners taking place under the oh-so-hot sun of a Yorkshire summer.
8. The Regency slang. Heyer went full out in this one! Most of the time it was pretty easy to use the context to determine the meaning of words/sentences, but I admit that there were a few instances when I didn’t particularly understand what was being said. But overall I really enjoyed it! Heyer sure knew how to write! Some of my favourite: “chuckfarthing fellow”, “Town Tulip”, “Top-of-the-Trees”, “nambypamby nonsense”, “ninny-hammer” and my new favourite expression “making a cake of oneself”!!!!
Things that annoyed me:
1. Tiffany. She was just plainly atrociously IN.TO.LE.RA.BLE. As much as I appreciate villains and selfish, shallow characters, she was just too much!!And the fact that she was beautiful only made it worse! She didn’t deserve it! Which brings me to
2. Every. Single. Man dangling around her!!! It was so irritating to hear of so-and-so going after Miss Wield and so-and-so being jealous, and then Sir Waldo (yes, Sir Waldo!!!!!!) giving her encouragement from time to time! Of course we know that he is by no means taking in with her, but still! I would have loved to hear instead that he was the one man who refrained from flirting with her, even if he wanted to “teach her a lesson”.
3. Speaking of which, she never does learn her lesson!!! She gets what she wants in the end!!!! SHE GOES TO LONDON!!!! Well, I was only glad for the sake of everyone else, particularly the Staples folk, that they were to be rid of her!
4. Miss Trent pretending that she isn’t in love with the Nonesuch when he proposes to her, because she thinks he has a bunch of illegitimate children!!! Of all the absurdities! And, what was very upsetting, the fact that she WON’T ASK HIM POINT-BLANK WHAT EXACLTY IT MEANS THAT HE HAD WRETCHED BRATS!!! Ah! I know that she was very picky with the proprieties, but come on! She could have found a way to ask him tactfully what was up! But no! Instead he had to be rejected, when it had been so obvious that he was as virtuous and straitlaced as she was, and so profoundly in love with her!! Poor Sir Waldo!!
5. As much as I love the Regency and its customs and manners, I can’t help but being a trifle annoyed at the exaggeration as to what is sometimes considered an “impropriety”. No lady can do anything by herself, but God forbid she asks the help of any gentleman for she is sure then of being reproached of setting her cap at him, which would be even worse! That part when some of the old matrons are gossiping about how Miss Trent is trying to catch Sir Waldo was too much to bear! All because they danced (twice! Oh, my Lord! How improper!), and he lead her on his arm to supper, and then later in the evening wrapped a shawl around her. It wasn’t as though they were seen making out on the terrace! And besides, as it never occurred to them, that hum, hello, maybe the reason for Sir Waldo’s singling Miss Trent out might be that he is IN LOVE WITH HER?!?!? Why else would he flirt with the governess?!?
6. The word lief. It was decidedly over-used. I don’t mind the abuse of “devil” or “devilish” or “damn” or “dash”, but if I come across “lief” again!! Argh!!!
7. The fact that we are never given any insight into Sir Waldo’s developing passion for Miss Trent. We all know he’s falling for her, and as much as I appreciate Heyer’s “show don’t tell”, I would have liked a tad bit more of what was going on inside his head. We read about Miss Trent’s developing feelings, so why not his? I wanted to know from his perspective why he had fallen in love with Ancilla. We got what Laurie thought on the matter! Like, who cared about Laurie, right?!?
8. The ending. If I can even call it that. I know Heyer loves to wrap things up pretty quickly, as though she thinks that after the hero and heroine have kissed it’s time to end the story as quickly as she can, lest she should be tempted to get them into bed- action (LOL I don’t think so! I’m kidding she wouldn’t!), but really?!? That was exaggerated! A little bit more interaction between the two lovers after they are agreed to get married! I am reviewing the book right now, but I still feel like I haven’t finished it!
When all’s said and done, however, my annoyances weren’t so profound as to out-weigh my overall enjoyment of The Nonesuch. The book was a marvel. Whatever I’m going to read next might seem pretty poor after this!
October 2, 2019
Still timeless & a wonderful pick me up on a bad week, but not quite a 5 star read for me.
There was a part which felt like filler & I couldn't quite see what made a "top sawyer" like Waldo fall for Ancilla so quickly. I think a longer time frame would have made their romance more convincing.
Also I usually find GH's cant self explanatory, but would love to know what crim con. actually means. & on page 514 of this edition, "if I'd have had the sense to have taken off my bars."
I've read this novel at least 6 times previously & don't recollect this & it makes no sense to me. A typo in this edition maybe?
What I did like;
Waldo himself, his character, charm & philanthropy.
Like a couple of her other latter novels (most notably the Black Sheep) GH is more accepting of characters (in this case a secondary character) being involved in trade, rather than useless expensive ornaments.
An engaging caste of minor characters.
I'll agree that even by GH's standards the ending is abrupt, but this allows the reader to visualise the happy ending. GH does play fair & leaves enough clues of what that is likely to be.
Reread 2/10/19 Still second tier of Heyer's for me - which means it is still far superior to most other Regencies! Liked Ancilla a little more on this read, but found Waldo a little too perfect, a little bland. I did like that there was more to him than being a Leader of the Ton. A Civil Contract started this phase in GH's writing and it continues in False Colours and The Black Sheep. I felt The Big Misunderstanding was very clumsy and unlikely, although GH worked hard to sell it.
Read with Georgette Heyer Fans Come join us!
There was a part which felt like filler & I couldn't quite see what made a "top sawyer" like Waldo fall for Ancilla so quickly. I think a longer time frame would have made their romance more convincing.
Also I usually find GH's cant self explanatory, but would love to know what crim con. actually means. & on page 514 of this edition, "if I'd have had the sense to have taken off my bars."
I've read this novel at least 6 times previously & don't recollect this & it makes no sense to me. A typo in this edition maybe?
What I did like;
Waldo himself, his character, charm & philanthropy.
Like a couple of her other latter novels (most notably the Black Sheep) GH is more accepting of characters (in this case a secondary character) being involved in trade, rather than useless expensive ornaments.
An engaging caste of minor characters.
I'll agree that even by GH's standards the ending is abrupt, but this allows the reader to visualise the happy ending. GH does play fair & leaves enough clues of what that is likely to be.
Reread 2/10/19 Still second tier of Heyer's for me - which means it is still far superior to most other Regencies! Liked Ancilla a little more on this read, but found Waldo a little too perfect, a little bland. I did like that there was more to him than being a Leader of the Ton. A Civil Contract started this phase in GH's writing and it continues in False Colours and The Black Sheep. I felt The Big Misunderstanding was very clumsy and unlikely, although GH worked hard to sell it.
Read with Georgette Heyer Fans Come join us!
August 9, 2024
The Nonesuch is a reread for me. It has long been a favorite with its comedy of errors, Regency era country setting, colorful characters, and even more colorful use of Regency Cant. I enjoyed revisiting this audio edition and James Lailey's narration work of characters and tone of the story.
The Nonesuch defies convention and provides a nearly perfect hero to entice and beguile the reader. Waldo is perfection, but he is engaging and wins hearts by his very nature. He is all that and at the top of his game, but he is kind and giving as well as shrewd and worldly-wise. He guides his two younger relations and even a few others while attempting his first real courtship. He's the cool guy and the alpha male without all the draw backs.
Meanwhile, the lady Waldo chooses to favor, Ancilla, is in great doubt of his perfections and manages to disbelieve or misrepresent him due to her own self-doubt. Ancilla is a superior lady, but she has fallen on hard times and must be employed as a spoilt young beauty's companion. It is the difference in their status and wealth that make her doubt the most and believe the worst. And, I get it, reputation is of great importance when you work for a living and are at the mercy of others.
Heyer fills the story with a series of sparkling wit, laugh out loud comedic moments, but spares the reader some of the dashing about that can appear. Her focus is on a mature couple finding love, but also a gaggle of young people coming of age who need to be steered right. On the side, there is the story of a second cousin of Waldo's who is on the brink of ruin and must decide on which side he'll land.
Side note, a second reading did not render little spoilt Tiffany any less noisome. She really did need a comeuppance and I had no sympathy for her poor little rich girl-only child- no one to guide her when she was young issues.
I love this story, but if it has a fault, it's the abrupt ending. It literally just stops. The reader is left in no doubt about the main plot threads, but there is no denouement to appreciate it.
But, as always, I come away with a smile and a happy sigh for another of the author's queenish works.
The Nonesuch defies convention and provides a nearly perfect hero to entice and beguile the reader. Waldo is perfection, but he is engaging and wins hearts by his very nature. He is all that and at the top of his game, but he is kind and giving as well as shrewd and worldly-wise. He guides his two younger relations and even a few others while attempting his first real courtship. He's the cool guy and the alpha male without all the draw backs.
Meanwhile, the lady Waldo chooses to favor, Ancilla, is in great doubt of his perfections and manages to disbelieve or misrepresent him due to her own self-doubt. Ancilla is a superior lady, but she has fallen on hard times and must be employed as a spoilt young beauty's companion. It is the difference in their status and wealth that make her doubt the most and believe the worst. And, I get it, reputation is of great importance when you work for a living and are at the mercy of others.
Heyer fills the story with a series of sparkling wit, laugh out loud comedic moments, but spares the reader some of the dashing about that can appear. Her focus is on a mature couple finding love, but also a gaggle of young people coming of age who need to be steered right. On the side, there is the story of a second cousin of Waldo's who is on the brink of ruin and must decide on which side he'll land.
Side note, a second reading did not render little spoilt Tiffany any less noisome. She really did need a comeuppance and I had no sympathy for her poor little rich girl-only child- no one to guide her when she was young issues.
I love this story, but if it has a fault, it's the abrupt ending. It literally just stops. The reader is left in no doubt about the main plot threads, but there is no denouement to appreciate it.
But, as always, I come away with a smile and a happy sigh for another of the author's queenish works.
June 26, 2022
3.5 ☆ rounded up
Published in 1962, The Nonesuch ventured deep into Regency English society as Georgette Heyer created characters who reflected a spectrum of socioeconomic status. In particular, the author paired together a couple with a wider social gulf than in the previous novels I've read so far.
Sir Waldo Hawkridge is the "nonesuch" who possesses not only a title, a fortune, but a deserved reputation for his athletic and sporting prowess. He figures prominently in the Corinthian set, to which many young gentlemen aspire. He's also a dedicated philanthropist, which distinguishes him from Heyer's other male protagonists.
Sir Waldo and his cousin Julian (Lord Lindeth) travel into Yorkshire to inspect Broom Hall, which Sir Waldo has just inherited. When he meets Miss Ancilla Trent in the little village of Oversett, there is a spark of mutual attraction.
I've realized that I prefer Heyer's older female heroines, or at least the ones who demonstrate initiative and independence of thought like Sophia Stanton-Lacy and Venetia Lanyon. Ancilla is another for she pursues an unpopular course of life by earning a living after rejecting two respectable marriage proposals. The horror of this lifestyle for a gently-reared female! But her family is in constrained circumstances. Ancilla isn't about to place greater demands upon them, nor is she going to "settle" for a husband merely for financial security.
Even though Ancilla's remuneration is triple the average rate, her social standing is still reduced because she's a paid companion. Her charge is 17 year old Tiffany Wield, an English iteration of Scarlett O'Hara when she was in her brattiest incarnation.
Tiffany is an absolute horror. Ancilla is quite creative as she deploys reverse psychology to check the worst of Tiffany's conduct.
Regardless of his initial attraction for Ancilla, Sir Waldo only expected to stay at Broom Hall for a short period. But cousin Julian has fallen for the beauty and wiles of Tiffany. In good conscience, Sir Waldo can't remain idle while his 23 year old cousin is tempted to make a very bad match. Events play out in the fishbowl existence of country village life as the local matrons vie to entertain their illustrious London aristocracy and possibly catch an eligible match for their daughters.
For the most part, Heyer writes for entertainment, not for social criticism, so her stories are quick and easy reads. Every now and then, I see that Heyer recycled bits between novels but the primary characters in this one feel original. The Nonesuch and later A Civil Contract reveal the rigidity of English society with all of its unspoken rules. While I like the main protagonists (and despite his unromantic first name, the "Nonesuch" is an appealing book boyfriend), I equally enjoyed the almost anthropological look into Regency English society. And I'm thankful that I am not a part of it.
Published in 1962, The Nonesuch ventured deep into Regency English society as Georgette Heyer created characters who reflected a spectrum of socioeconomic status. In particular, the author paired together a couple with a wider social gulf than in the previous novels I've read so far.
Sir Waldo Hawkridge is the "nonesuch" who possesses not only a title, a fortune, but a deserved reputation for his athletic and sporting prowess. He figures prominently in the Corinthian set, to which many young gentlemen aspire. He's also a dedicated philanthropist, which distinguishes him from Heyer's other male protagonists.
Sir Waldo and his cousin Julian (Lord Lindeth) travel into Yorkshire to inspect Broom Hall, which Sir Waldo has just inherited. When he meets Miss Ancilla Trent in the little village of Oversett, there is a spark of mutual attraction.
Their eyes met, both pairs grey, hers very cool and clear, his faintly smiling... she gave him her hand...
The thought flashed into her mind that she beheld the embodiment of her ideal. It was as instantly banished...
I've realized that I prefer Heyer's older female heroines, or at least the ones who demonstrate initiative and independence of thought like Sophia Stanton-Lacy and Venetia Lanyon. Ancilla is another for she pursues an unpopular course of life by earning a living after rejecting two respectable marriage proposals. The horror of this lifestyle for a gently-reared female! But her family is in constrained circumstances. Ancilla isn't about to place greater demands upon them, nor is she going to "settle" for a husband merely for financial security.
Even though Ancilla's remuneration is triple the average rate, her social standing is still reduced because she's a paid companion. Her charge is 17 year old Tiffany Wield, an English iteration of Scarlett O'Hara when she was in her brattiest incarnation.
Indulged almost from the hour of her birth; endowed not only with beauty but with a considerable independence as well; encouraged to think herself a matrimonial prize of the first stare, Tiffany had come to regard every unattached man’s homage as her due... Tiffany never consciously deviated from the truth, but since she saw everything only as it affected herself the truth was apt to become somewhat distorted.
Tiffany is an absolute horror. Ancilla is quite creative as she deploys reverse psychology to check the worst of Tiffany's conduct.
“I didn’t make my face, so why shouldn’t I say it’s beautiful? Everyone else does!”
Miss Trent regarded her thoughtfully. "Well, it's an odd circumstance, but I've frequently observed that whenever you boast of your beauty you seem to lose some of it. I expect it must be the change in your expression."
Startled, Tiffany flew to gaze anxiously into the ornate looking-glass which hung above the fireplace. "Do I?" she asked naively. "Really do I, Ancilla?"
"Yes, decidedly," replied Miss Trent, perjuring her soul without the least hesitation.”
Regardless of his initial attraction for Ancilla, Sir Waldo only expected to stay at Broom Hall for a short period. But cousin Julian has fallen for the beauty and wiles of Tiffany. In good conscience, Sir Waldo can't remain idle while his 23 year old cousin is tempted to make a very bad match. Events play out in the fishbowl existence of country village life as the local matrons vie to entertain their illustrious London aristocracy and possibly catch an eligible match for their daughters.
For the most part, Heyer writes for entertainment, not for social criticism, so her stories are quick and easy reads. Every now and then, I see that Heyer recycled bits between novels but the primary characters in this one feel original. The Nonesuch and later A Civil Contract reveal the rigidity of English society with all of its unspoken rules. While I like the main protagonists (and despite his unromantic first name, the "Nonesuch" is an appealing book boyfriend), I equally enjoyed the almost anthropological look into Regency English society. And I'm thankful that I am not a part of it.
April 21, 2022
‘I dislike ninnyhammers, and that she must certainly be if she imagines for one moment that a man of his consequences would entertain the thought of marriage with her!’
The Nonesuch is a 1962 Regency romance set in 1816 London. The title is a reference to the hero’s perfection in sports and manners. Besides having an enjoyable mix of characters to love and loathe, the last quarter of the book has delightfully witty dialogue that made me laugh.
Single, wealthy, philanthropic Sir Waldo Hawkridge (35) recognized as the Nonesuch by London society has just inherited a country estate, Broom Hall, from his late cousin Joseph. He intends to use this place for another of his charity orphanages, but no one outside his family knows his plan.
When he visits this estate in Oversett, he brings his “especial charge,” an aristocratic cousin, Julian Lindeth (23) who “prefers the country to the ton parties.” While there overseeing the renovations to the hall, they meet several local families. In fact, everyone has been in an uproar over Waldo’s arrival, and they all wish to be the first to meet him. Mrs. Charlotte Underhill, owner of Staples House, has two older children, her son Courtenay (19) and daughter Charlotte (15), and an orphaned niece Tiffany Wield (17), and Tiffany’s governess Miss Ancilla Trent (26). And the local rector and his daughter Miss Patience Chartley. Among several other families and youths that aim to emulate Waldo’s Corinthian fashions.
Waldo and Julian socialize by attending dinners, outings, and dances. Julian, as most males are, is enthralled by Tiffany’s unsurpassed beauty until he realizes her true nature. Ancilla is aware of Waldo’s strength upon their first meeting; she “beheld the embodiment of her ideal,” but she does not allow herself to forget her station as governess despite her birth. Waldo is attracted by Ancilla’s intelligence and sense of humor. Gentle amicable Patience is quietly overlooked.
When Waldo and Julian don’t return to London as their cousin Mr. Laurence “Laurie” Calver expected, he tramps after them. Laurie, a young dandy whose had been unsuccessful in becoming independent and is accustomed to monetary loans from Waldo, was received coolly but allowed to stay. Laurie schemes about how to make Waldo beholding to him because he wants a loan of money to fund another venture that Waldo has already refused.
During the social activities, the characters see conflict and jealous behavior emerge. “Hostesses who had previously vied with one another only in the mildest ways became imbued with the spirit of fierce competition.” Surpassing the behavior of the hostesses, Tiffany who expects to be heroine of every situation, displays her tendency to ‘indulge a fit of hysterics’ anytime she receives the mildest neglect.
With Laurie scheming, Julian being fickle, Ancilla denying herself, Tiffany being ridiculous, and Waldo being secretive, it’s no wonder this story snowballs into misconceptions. Only by effort and chance does everything become settled.
I found all the characters enjoyable, no matter if their behavior was positive or negative; they served a purpose in the story. I didn’t find their ridiculousness over the top because I knew it was meant as a caricature; besides, without it, the misconceptions in the last quarter of the book would not have had as much “fuel” to burn. The layered confusion set up pages of the wittiest dialogue I’ve read in a Heyer book. It is my favorite kind of humor in a romance, when characters have a conversation, and they are both talking about different topics yet don’t realize it at the time.
As usual, the writing is superb, even with the moderate amount of Regency cant terms. Some dialogue between Waldo and one of his cousins got a little muddled because I didn’t know the cant terms used, but it wasn’t in parts that were vital to the story. However, I got a good laugh from the cant! “Ape your modes,” “We are in the Basket,” “Top-of-the-Trees,” “I cry craven!” “Take a damper!” “Tulip of the first stare,” – oh, a fav of mine – “Vulgar mushroom!”
The romance is quite chaste and the couple(s) likable but not outstanding individually. I liked that the hero(s) were not spoken of as the rakish type.
The Nonesuch was simply a charming and witty book. I’ve added it to my favorite list for the fantastic ending and banter. It is a rare book that I tolerate to reread, but this is one of them.
The Nonesuch is a 1962 Regency romance set in 1816 London. The title is a reference to the hero’s perfection in sports and manners. Besides having an enjoyable mix of characters to love and loathe, the last quarter of the book has delightfully witty dialogue that made me laugh.
Single, wealthy, philanthropic Sir Waldo Hawkridge (35) recognized as the Nonesuch by London society has just inherited a country estate, Broom Hall, from his late cousin Joseph. He intends to use this place for another of his charity orphanages, but no one outside his family knows his plan.
When he visits this estate in Oversett, he brings his “especial charge,” an aristocratic cousin, Julian Lindeth (23) who “prefers the country to the ton parties.” While there overseeing the renovations to the hall, they meet several local families. In fact, everyone has been in an uproar over Waldo’s arrival, and they all wish to be the first to meet him. Mrs. Charlotte Underhill, owner of Staples House, has two older children, her son Courtenay (19) and daughter Charlotte (15), and an orphaned niece Tiffany Wield (17), and Tiffany’s governess Miss Ancilla Trent (26). And the local rector and his daughter Miss Patience Chartley. Among several other families and youths that aim to emulate Waldo’s Corinthian fashions.
Waldo and Julian socialize by attending dinners, outings, and dances. Julian, as most males are, is enthralled by Tiffany’s unsurpassed beauty until he realizes her true nature. Ancilla is aware of Waldo’s strength upon their first meeting; she “beheld the embodiment of her ideal,” but she does not allow herself to forget her station as governess despite her birth. Waldo is attracted by Ancilla’s intelligence and sense of humor. Gentle amicable Patience is quietly overlooked.
When Waldo and Julian don’t return to London as their cousin Mr. Laurence “Laurie” Calver expected, he tramps after them. Laurie, a young dandy whose had been unsuccessful in becoming independent and is accustomed to monetary loans from Waldo, was received coolly but allowed to stay. Laurie schemes about how to make Waldo beholding to him because he wants a loan of money to fund another venture that Waldo has already refused.
During the social activities, the characters see conflict and jealous behavior emerge. “Hostesses who had previously vied with one another only in the mildest ways became imbued with the spirit of fierce competition.” Surpassing the behavior of the hostesses, Tiffany who expects to be heroine of every situation, displays her tendency to ‘indulge a fit of hysterics’ anytime she receives the mildest neglect.
With Laurie scheming, Julian being fickle, Ancilla denying herself, Tiffany being ridiculous, and Waldo being secretive, it’s no wonder this story snowballs into misconceptions. Only by effort and chance does everything become settled.
I found all the characters enjoyable, no matter if their behavior was positive or negative; they served a purpose in the story. I didn’t find their ridiculousness over the top because I knew it was meant as a caricature; besides, without it, the misconceptions in the last quarter of the book would not have had as much “fuel” to burn. The layered confusion set up pages of the wittiest dialogue I’ve read in a Heyer book. It is my favorite kind of humor in a romance, when characters have a conversation, and they are both talking about different topics yet don’t realize it at the time.
As usual, the writing is superb, even with the moderate amount of Regency cant terms. Some dialogue between Waldo and one of his cousins got a little muddled because I didn’t know the cant terms used, but it wasn’t in parts that were vital to the story. However, I got a good laugh from the cant! “Ape your modes,” “We are in the Basket,” “Top-of-the-Trees,” “I cry craven!” “Take a damper!” “Tulip of the first stare,” – oh, a fav of mine – “Vulgar mushroom!”
The romance is quite chaste and the couple(s) likable but not outstanding individually. I liked that the hero(s) were not spoken of as the rakish type.
The Nonesuch was simply a charming and witty book. I’ve added it to my favorite list for the fantastic ending and banter. It is a rare book that I tolerate to reread, but this is one of them.
July 6, 2019
Real Rating: 4.5* of five
That was a most satisfying ending indeed. The way we went around and about, I wondered how we'd ever reach the stables. "Trust Ma Heyer," whispered the Ghost of Horrible Absent, "never would she lead you astray...and leave you there!"
Yes Horrible, yes indeed, you're correct as always. A delicious ride. A delightful end-place. A read to be savored as much in memory as in experience. Ancilla and Tiffany getting their just deserts makes the fate of the Nonesuch so much more appealing!
That was a most satisfying ending indeed. The way we went around and about, I wondered how we'd ever reach the stables. "Trust Ma Heyer," whispered the Ghost of Horrible Absent, "never would she lead you astray...and leave you there!"
Yes Horrible, yes indeed, you're correct as always. A delicious ride. A delightful end-place. A read to be savored as much in memory as in experience. Ancilla and Tiffany getting their just deserts makes the fate of the Nonesuch so much more appealing!
May 11, 2015
Many people couldn't stand Tiffany. She's hands down the most nasty female character I've read in Heyer's universe. Maybe because I'd been prepared by people's irritation of her, I found Tiffany's absolute self-absorption and selfishness very entertaining. Every scene with her, whether it's throwing temper tantrum or merely opening her mouth, gave me a good laugh. Reading men of quality falling prey to her beauty until they were hit by her nasty temper and came out of the stupor was more fun than reading the subdued romance between Sir Waldo and Miss Trent, and it didn't help that the misunderstanding between them toward the end seemed a bit forced to me. What did irritate me a little was Miss Trent's ever present impulse to feel sorry and to patch things up for this heartless Tiffany. With her constant thinking "she's just a child", you'd think Tiffany was a 6-year-old instead of a young woman ready for the marriage market.
That's why it's so satisfying in the end when Miss Trent tried but FAILED to stop Sir Waldo from giving Tiffany a long overdue stern set down. But this ending! Ugh!! It's better than Heyer's Black Sheep, but not by much. It kills me that I'll never know how Tiffany reacted to Sir Waldo's brilliant, crushing words. With Laurence cheering Sir Waldo on, that would've been such a delicious read!
To me the story could've been tighter. More than once, I found myself skimming through lengthy thoughts of some minor characters.
3.5 stars
That's why it's so satisfying in the end when Miss Trent tried but FAILED to stop Sir Waldo from giving Tiffany a long overdue stern set down. But this ending! Ugh!! It's better than Heyer's Black Sheep, but not by much. It kills me that I'll never know how Tiffany reacted to Sir Waldo's brilliant, crushing words. With Laurence cheering Sir Waldo on, that would've been such a delicious read!
To me the story could've been tighter. More than once, I found myself skimming through lengthy thoughts of some minor characters.
3.5 stars
June 13, 2023
Sir Waldo Hawkridge and Miss Trent are the main characters in this romantic comedy. The completely spoilt Tiffany Wield is well written. She is indeed a buffleheaded clunch.
There is nothing like a GH to bring a smile to ones face and several chuckles. Waldo a Corinthian of the highest calibre inherits the rundown Broom Hall in the West Riding where he meets gentile governess Miss Trent. He is there to create a school for Waldo’s wretched brats. Along the way he finds romance.
An enjoyable Regency read.
There is nothing like a GH to bring a smile to ones face and several chuckles. Waldo a Corinthian of the highest calibre inherits the rundown Broom Hall in the West Riding where he meets gentile governess Miss Trent. He is there to create a school for Waldo’s wretched brats. Along the way he finds romance.
An enjoyable Regency read.
September 20, 2025
3.5 stars, rounded up because of the quality of the writing. A reread after a few years. I liked the relationship between Ancilla and Waldo. They were both people of integrity and were well-suited to each other. There was not a lot of romance in the book though, apart from several swoony looks, mainly as witnessed by others, a couple of hints-almost-declarations from Waldo, and one brief kissing scene.
One of the dominating characters of the book was Ancilla's charge, the young and foolish Tiffany. It was clear from the very beginning that she was spoilt, selfish, immature and completely unlikeable. Unfortunately, there seemed to be just too many scenes and too much page space devoted to this unpleasant character. This was at the cost of the relationship-building between Ancilla and Waldo. It's typical of Heyer romances to be somewhat understated and hinted at rather than too overt, and in some of her books I don't mind that. But in this book I would definitely have liked a little more romance.
The ending of the book was also very abrupt. Meant to finish on a humorous note, perhaps, but it almost felt unfinished, and I wanted to turn the page to read more. But there wasn't anything. It was done! And of course, the painful Tiffany was centre stage in the last scene. Oh well. It was still a pleasant and entertaining read overall, but not my fav Heyer.
One of the dominating characters of the book was Ancilla's charge, the young and foolish Tiffany. It was clear from the very beginning that she was spoilt, selfish, immature and completely unlikeable. Unfortunately, there seemed to be just too many scenes and too much page space devoted to this unpleasant character. This was at the cost of the relationship-building between Ancilla and Waldo. It's typical of Heyer romances to be somewhat understated and hinted at rather than too overt, and in some of her books I don't mind that. But in this book I would definitely have liked a little more romance.
The ending of the book was also very abrupt. Meant to finish on a humorous note, perhaps, but it almost felt unfinished, and I wanted to turn the page to read more. But there wasn't anything. It was done! And of course, the painful Tiffany was centre stage in the last scene. Oh well. It was still a pleasant and entertaining read overall, but not my fav Heyer.
November 20, 2021
I’m so mad at myself for putting off reading this absolute gem for so long, simply because I let myself feel daunted by Tiffany’s brattishness.
While it’s true that her character is the most aggravating I’ve come across in Heyer’s novels, her behaviour was for the most part a source of comic relief and her scheming never failed to backfire!
It was extremely satisfying to see all of her efforts amount to nothing until she was forced to leave Staples with her reputation in tatters.
Everyone, even the least perceptive, saw beneath her beautiful façade and I really don’t see her self-imposed exile in London as her ‘getting what she wanted’, since she’ll have to take herself wherever she goes, which is more than enough punishment.
But enough about bratty anti-heroines: this novel features a refreshingly mature and truly honourable main couple, Sir Waldo and Ancilla Trent, who fell in love with each other one intelligent and slightly sarcastic conversation at a time.
Sir Waldo in particular is everything one could want from a Regency hero, and, despite his being present on the page for most of the book, I kept asking WHERE IS HE whenever he was absent for more than one scene.
Some of this couple’s interactions made me sigh with their barely restrained romanticism, and unlike other cross-class romances featuring a gentleman and a governess, the difference in their social standing was portrayed realistically and never conveniently brushed aside.
Kudos to Georgette Heyer for using the Big Misunderstanding™️ to her advantage, by employing it as a source of some well-needed angst for the main characters without turning either one into gullible idiots. It gets resolved in the most adorable way ever, so for once I feel nothing but appreciation for this trope!
Finally, I enjoyed the small country village setting more than expected, thanks to Heyer’s talent in presenting such a well-rounded and sometimes hilarious set of supporting characters.
After all, as someone very intelligent once said, ‘three or four families in a country village is the very thing to work on’….
While it’s true that her character is the most aggravating I’ve come across in Heyer’s novels, her behaviour was for the most part a source of comic relief and her scheming never failed to backfire!
It was extremely satisfying to see all of her efforts amount to nothing until she was forced to leave Staples with her reputation in tatters.
Everyone, even the least perceptive, saw beneath her beautiful façade and I really don’t see her self-imposed exile in London as her ‘getting what she wanted’, since she’ll have to take herself wherever she goes, which is more than enough punishment.
But enough about bratty anti-heroines: this novel features a refreshingly mature and truly honourable main couple, Sir Waldo and Ancilla Trent, who fell in love with each other one intelligent and slightly sarcastic conversation at a time.
Sir Waldo in particular is everything one could want from a Regency hero, and, despite his being present on the page for most of the book, I kept asking WHERE IS HE whenever he was absent for more than one scene.
Some of this couple’s interactions made me sigh with their barely restrained romanticism, and unlike other cross-class romances featuring a gentleman and a governess, the difference in their social standing was portrayed realistically and never conveniently brushed aside.
Kudos to Georgette Heyer for using the Big Misunderstanding™️ to her advantage, by employing it as a source of some well-needed angst for the main characters without turning either one into gullible idiots. It gets resolved in the most adorable way ever, so for once I feel nothing but appreciation for this trope!
Finally, I enjoyed the small country village setting more than expected, thanks to Heyer’s talent in presenting such a well-rounded and sometimes hilarious set of supporting characters.
After all, as someone very intelligent once said, ‘three or four families in a country village is the very thing to work on’….
May 21, 2021
2021 Review
Weeeeelllll, I made it to the 4th read and no, I'm not contemplating 5 stars. But I did bump it up to 4 stars on the strength of the side characters. I didn't particularly like them the last time I read this one and got annoyed when they interrupted the romance. But this time around, I didn't mind as much and actually kept reading for their antics, rather than in spite of them.
2020 Review-3 stars
Well, I always say that third time is the charm when it comes to reading Heyer. I bet by my fourth read I will be contemplating five stars!
Braced for The Nonesuch's numerous perfections, I wasn't as thrown off by them. I also didn't feel quite as frustrated by the stupid misunderstanding that kept him and Ancilla apart near the end.
Still, the story needed more moments of them as a couple and less of the annoying young people that surround them. Even the last chapter veers away from the "kiss and promise to wed" in favor of more antics on the part of the willful heiress and the weaseling cousin.
2019 Review-2 stars
Unlike most of Heyer's novels, I read The Nonsesuch and did not return. I could not precisely remember why I did not enjoy it, but I did not. That was enough. As my memory grew more vague, the only thing I could account for the distaste was that the hero must be a womanizer. I didn't have much taste for womanizers at 17.
But oh! It turned out to be much, much worse! He's a paragon of virtue! He builds ORPHANAGES! He pays his cousins' bills out of the goodness of his heart! He falls in love with a governess and thinks nothing of social status!
He is so freaking flawless that it is no fun.
Ancilla falls in the mold of the older Heyer heroines but she is much too reserved to be likable. Even knowing her heart, it is hard to love her.
Pity. This is closer to Austen than Heyer with the village polite semi-gentry. Quite different from Heyer's usual environment.
I'll read it again. I find it usually takes 4 reads to reconcile me to Heyer's characters. Read 2 has not done it!
2011 Review
The Nonesuch by Georgette Heyer was, in a word or two, rather disappointing. It looked like a fun plot, with more of a male main character, but I was wrong on both accounts. Not that the plot wasn't fun, but it lacked what I've come to expect from Heyer. The plot was rather simplistic (dare I say far-fetched?) without the usual hilarious irony I've come to expect. The characters also suffered somewhat, more on them in a moment.
Ancilla Trent, though once from a noble family, now lives as the companion/governess in the home of a wealthy widow, caring for the woman's niece, Tiffany Weild. Tiffany is beautiful, spoiled, petted, wealthy, and completely untamable. Only Ms. Trent has been able to control the ambitious brat.
When Sir Waldo Hawkridge, dubbed "The Nonesuch" for his sporting abilities and the talk of London, inherits a run-down estate from a distant cousin, he decides to visit, there meeting the spoiled Beauty and her governess.
What follows is pretty much a love story between Ancilla and Sir Waldo. Sir Waldo's nephew, Lord Lindeth, shows up, falls in and out of love a few times, and pretty much just adds to the "romantic" plot in general. Another cousin of even less interest shows up, flirts around a bit, and attempts to be useful. Overall, I found them all disapointing. Ancilla is not really memorable, a bit like the main character from Persuasion. She's very virtuous (which I rather liked) yet young, clever...and rather boring. She falls in love with Sir Waldo, but it really isn't quite believable.
I guess the plot just lacked...something. All the romances tied up neatly, with supringly little issues. In fact, the climax was so easily overcome, I was quite suprised to find the book over. The ending was abrupt....
I'm just going to take a stagger and guess she wrote this early on. It holds hints of the wonderful work Heyer is capable of, but isn't her best. I'd much rather reccomend The Grand Sophy or Cotillion
Weeeeelllll, I made it to the 4th read and no, I'm not contemplating 5 stars. But I did bump it up to 4 stars on the strength of the side characters. I didn't particularly like them the last time I read this one and got annoyed when they interrupted the romance. But this time around, I didn't mind as much and actually kept reading for their antics, rather than in spite of them.
2020 Review-3 stars
Well, I always say that third time is the charm when it comes to reading Heyer. I bet by my fourth read I will be contemplating five stars!
Braced for The Nonesuch's numerous perfections, I wasn't as thrown off by them. I also didn't feel quite as frustrated by the stupid misunderstanding that kept him and Ancilla apart near the end.
Still, the story needed more moments of them as a couple and less of the annoying young people that surround them. Even the last chapter veers away from the "kiss and promise to wed" in favor of more antics on the part of the willful heiress and the weaseling cousin.
2019 Review-2 stars
Unlike most of Heyer's novels, I read The Nonsesuch and did not return. I could not precisely remember why I did not enjoy it, but I did not. That was enough. As my memory grew more vague, the only thing I could account for the distaste was that the hero must be a womanizer. I didn't have much taste for womanizers at 17.
But oh! It turned out to be much, much worse! He's a paragon of virtue! He builds ORPHANAGES! He pays his cousins' bills out of the goodness of his heart! He falls in love with a governess and thinks nothing of social status!
He is so freaking flawless that it is no fun.
Ancilla falls in the mold of the older Heyer heroines but she is much too reserved to be likable. Even knowing her heart, it is hard to love her.
Pity. This is closer to Austen than Heyer with the village polite semi-gentry. Quite different from Heyer's usual environment.
I'll read it again. I find it usually takes 4 reads to reconcile me to Heyer's characters. Read 2 has not done it!
2011 Review
The Nonesuch by Georgette Heyer was, in a word or two, rather disappointing. It looked like a fun plot, with more of a male main character, but I was wrong on both accounts. Not that the plot wasn't fun, but it lacked what I've come to expect from Heyer. The plot was rather simplistic (dare I say far-fetched?) without the usual hilarious irony I've come to expect. The characters also suffered somewhat, more on them in a moment.
Ancilla Trent, though once from a noble family, now lives as the companion/governess in the home of a wealthy widow, caring for the woman's niece, Tiffany Weild. Tiffany is beautiful, spoiled, petted, wealthy, and completely untamable. Only Ms. Trent has been able to control the ambitious brat.
When Sir Waldo Hawkridge, dubbed "The Nonesuch" for his sporting abilities and the talk of London, inherits a run-down estate from a distant cousin, he decides to visit, there meeting the spoiled Beauty and her governess.
What follows is pretty much a love story between Ancilla and Sir Waldo. Sir Waldo's nephew, Lord Lindeth, shows up, falls in and out of love a few times, and pretty much just adds to the "romantic" plot in general. Another cousin of even less interest shows up, flirts around a bit, and attempts to be useful. Overall, I found them all disapointing. Ancilla is not really memorable, a bit like the main character from Persuasion. She's very virtuous (which I rather liked) yet young, clever...and rather boring. She falls in love with Sir Waldo, but it really isn't quite believable.
I guess the plot just lacked...something. All the romances tied up neatly, with supringly little issues. In fact, the climax was so easily overcome, I was quite suprised to find the book over. The ending was abrupt....
I'm just going to take a stagger and guess she wrote this early on. It holds hints of the wonderful work Heyer is capable of, but isn't her best. I'd much rather reccomend The Grand Sophy or Cotillion
August 29, 2022
I enjoyed this much more than I did when I read it in my youth. Then, I did not like the fact that Ancilla was a governess and as such a lower form of life in the community she lived in, despite the fact that she was so superior in "breeding", intelligence, wit, and elegance. It was just so unfair! I also was not used to the “older” heroine (25?!) romance. Ancilla was just so-o-o-o-o-o very very mature, and not just in age. I think I also had a problem with the name “Waldo”.
Although I did enjoy their romance much more this time, I got more of a kick out of her charge, the spoiled uncontrollable beauty, Tiffany Wield. She just kept me on the edge of my seat whenever she appeared on the page. I suspect, like Lawrence, she was a bit dicked in the nob. I loved the gentle romance between her former swain, the thoroughly nice Julian, and the sweet, but high-character Patience Chartley. The scene in Leeds when she rescues the little ragamuffin from Tiffany’s rage was a riot. The “big misunderstanding” regarding Waldo's "children" did not bother me as much this time. When Ancilla refused Waldo’s proposal, his reaction revealed the depth of his feelings for Ancilla. As for Ancilla, she needed a little shaking up, as I found her just a bit too even-tempered and sensible. I couldn’t help but think of Emma Thompson as Eleanor in Sense and Sensibility. Her silliness made her a bit more likable and relatable.
I found the ending too abrupt, and I don’t think Lawrence, who was partially redeemed in the last chapters, got sorted satisfactorily either. The narration by Eve Matheson was “bang up to the knocker”. There were many entertaining characters and she really captured even the most minor ones, to a T.
Although I did enjoy their romance much more this time, I got more of a kick out of her charge, the spoiled uncontrollable beauty, Tiffany Wield. She just kept me on the edge of my seat whenever she appeared on the page. I suspect, like Lawrence, she was a bit dicked in the nob. I loved the gentle romance between her former swain, the thoroughly nice Julian, and the sweet, but high-character Patience Chartley. The scene in Leeds when she rescues the little ragamuffin from Tiffany’s rage was a riot. The “big misunderstanding” regarding Waldo's "children" did not bother me as much this time. When Ancilla refused Waldo’s proposal, his reaction revealed the depth of his feelings for Ancilla. As for Ancilla, she needed a little shaking up, as I found her just a bit too even-tempered and sensible. I couldn’t help but think of Emma Thompson as Eleanor in Sense and Sensibility. Her silliness made her a bit more likable and relatable.
I found the ending too abrupt, and I don’t think Lawrence, who was partially redeemed in the last chapters, got sorted satisfactorily either. The narration by Eve Matheson was “bang up to the knocker”. There were many entertaining characters and she really captured even the most minor ones, to a T.
October 19, 2023
After listening to Eve Matheson's narration of this book, The Nonesuch zoomed from a three-star to a five-star for me. Just delightful. Heyer's talent for sharp, witty dialogue is perfectly captured by Ms. Matheson, and I expect she had some fun with the insufferable Tiffany.
October 16, 2019
Ancilla is a cultured and elegant woman who has nobly taken work as a governess to avoid being a burden to her cash-strapped family.
Waldo is a cultured and elegant man who has recently inherited a house in the neighbourhood.
As they are the only two people in the area with two braincells to rub together, it is quite natural that they should fall in love. As they are both even-tempered and sensible, there is nothing much to cause any disagreement between them. The main love story is so placid and uneventful that it could be used as a tranquilizer, and is only livened up at the last minute by a Big Misunderstanding. The Big Misunderstanding is completely contrived and implausible, and depends entirely on Ancilla suddenly abandoning all rational thought. I'm always disappointed by plots that depend on otherwise intelligent people acting stupidly, or conflicts that would be easily resolved by people speaking plainly.
So the main story is disappointing but the side plots are enlivened by the completely amoral beauty Tiffany. Her ambition to make every man and boy fall in love with her results in entertaining shenanigans, but overall it's not quite enough to make this novel more than a forgetable afternoon read.
Waldo is a cultured and elegant man who has recently inherited a house in the neighbourhood.
As they are the only two people in the area with two braincells to rub together, it is quite natural that they should fall in love. As they are both even-tempered and sensible, there is nothing much to cause any disagreement between them. The main love story is so placid and uneventful that it could be used as a tranquilizer, and is only livened up at the last minute by a Big Misunderstanding. The Big Misunderstanding is completely contrived and implausible, and depends entirely on Ancilla suddenly abandoning all rational thought. I'm always disappointed by plots that depend on otherwise intelligent people acting stupidly, or conflicts that would be easily resolved by people speaking plainly.
So the main story is disappointing but the side plots are enlivened by the completely amoral beauty Tiffany. Her ambition to make every man and boy fall in love with her results in entertaining shenanigans, but overall it's not quite enough to make this novel more than a forgetable afternoon read.
September 8, 2016
3.5
I feel cheated by the abrupt ending. It doesn't even end with the two main characters.
That being said, it surprised me how much I enjoyed this book. There is no real plot one could point out. The Nonesuch's strength are its characters.
Some of them are adorably lovely (I loved Julian), some hilariously childish and greedy (Laurie), gossipy and mean (some of the village matrons), goodhearted (Mrs. Underhill, Miss Trent's employer) and some will drive you crazy (Tiffany). I don't even want to give her more attention than she deserves (most characters gave her more than enough attention in the book).
As for the love story, it kind of feels as if Heyer forgot to explain or at least show why would Sir Waldo fall for Ancilla Trent. I liked her, but I got to read her thoughts. He didn't have that.
Still, even with the flaws I had lots of fun with these characters.
I feel cheated by the abrupt ending. It doesn't even end with the two main characters.
That being said, it surprised me how much I enjoyed this book. There is no real plot one could point out. The Nonesuch's strength are its characters.
Some of them are adorably lovely (I loved Julian), some hilariously childish and greedy (Laurie), gossipy and mean (some of the village matrons), goodhearted (Mrs. Underhill, Miss Trent's employer) and some will drive you crazy (Tiffany). I don't even want to give her more attention than she deserves (most characters gave her more than enough attention in the book).
As for the love story, it kind of feels as if Heyer forgot to explain or at least show why would Sir Waldo fall for Ancilla Trent. I liked her, but I got to read her thoughts. He didn't have that.
Still, even with the flaws I had lots of fun with these characters.
September 16, 2008
Another Heyer I've re-read many times over the years. 'Tis a slightly older couple romance. I like the sensible heroine, and envy her endless patience, though am slightly irritated by how uptight and prudish she is. The character drawing of the annoying Beauty is so spot on, I cringe every time I read her. The hero is, naturally, perfect. Older men approve of him, younger men want to be him, ladies swoon over him. He's a bit over-perfect for me, but his witty put-downs are so hilarious I repeatedly forgive him for being a paragon of all virtues.
May 10, 2021
Still a five star read for me and my favorite Heyer. I love Ancilla and Waldo. Maybe it's the slightly older hero and heroine that appeals so much. My favorite Austen is Persuasion, again a slightly older couple.
Ancilla has a lot to endure. Even though she has a comfortable governess position, her charge is very trying. I utterly disliked Tiffany. She's a horrible, spoiled brat who's totally selfish.
There are some marvelous characters here as usual including Courtenay, Tiffany's cousin. I liked him because he said what he thought and didn't pander to her. He had no trouble putting her in her place and was the only one who seemed to have the courage to do it.
The romance is a very slow burn but all the lovelier for it.
Highly recommend it
Enjoyed it just much this time. My favourite Heyer without a doubt and Waldo is my all time favourite hero.
Ancilla has a lot to endure. Even though she has a comfortable governess position, her charge is very trying. I utterly disliked Tiffany. She's a horrible, spoiled brat who's totally selfish.
There are some marvelous characters here as usual including Courtenay, Tiffany's cousin. I liked him because he said what he thought and didn't pander to her. He had no trouble putting her in her place and was the only one who seemed to have the courage to do it.
The romance is a very slow burn but all the lovelier for it.
Highly recommend it
Enjoyed it just much this time. My favourite Heyer without a doubt and Waldo is my all time favourite hero.
August 24, 2025
3.25⭐️ If you’re looking for smokin’ hot romance in a Heyer novel, this might be it. Sir Waldo (a sweetheart of a gentleman 😍) was attracted to clever, governess and companion, Miss Ancilla Trent in a New York Minute (anyone remember that expression?).
As for Ancilla’s impression:
…from the moment of first setting eyes on him she had felt so strong an attraction that it had shocked her…
Ooh La La!
(Ahem, but don’t get worked up. That’s as steamy as it gets.)
Flies in the Ointment of True Love
🌋Tiffany Wield—Miss Trent’s spoiled and tantrum-prone pupil. Ms Heyer served up at least four displays of Tiffany’s temper. It was not pretty.
🐜 Cousins! Too many! Everyone had a cousin to talk to or talk about. It was hard to keep them straight.
As for Ancilla’s impression:
…from the moment of first setting eyes on him she had felt so strong an attraction that it had shocked her…
Ooh La La!
(Ahem, but don’t get worked up. That’s as steamy as it gets.)
Flies in the Ointment of True Love
🌋Tiffany Wield—Miss Trent’s spoiled and tantrum-prone pupil. Ms Heyer served up at least four displays of Tiffany’s temper. It was not pretty.
🐜 Cousins! Too many! Everyone had a cousin to talk to or talk about. It was hard to keep them straight.
January 28, 2021
3.5 no nambypamby stars
Dos protagonistas simpáticos y sensatos...
...pero Ese Final...¿cuál final? Ahora entiendo lo que quieren decir , este no es final abierto es FINAL ABRUPTO por no decir interruptus. Todo el mundo se debe quedar con cara de ... ¿dónde esta el resto del libro? ¿del capítulo? ¿dónde está mi final? y jurando y perjurando que alguien arrancó páginas, que los editores estaban apurados/enojados/se equivocaron en la imprenta... pero ... ¡por favor!
El resto del libro es bastante entretenido (Y en ocasiones de dialogos me parecia estar presenciando directamente una escena en el teatro), aunque la parte 'romántica' por así decirlo es bastante mínima, y más revuelve en torno a la egoista Tiffany. Asi que en vez de llamarse el Sinigual probablemente deberia ser "Los enredos de Tiffany y como nos conocimos a pesar de ello".
*Como nota aparte de la edición en castellano: En la traducción en castellano me cayó un poca tonta la palabra "ama" para referirse a Ancilla y creo que habria sido mejor "gobernanta" o aún mejor "institutriz"(ella es la governess) .
Dos protagonistas simpáticos y sensatos...
...pero Ese Final...¿cuál final? Ahora entiendo lo que quieren decir , este no es final abierto es FINAL ABRUPTO por no decir interruptus. Todo el mundo se debe quedar con cara de ... ¿dónde esta el resto del libro? ¿del capítulo? ¿dónde está mi final? y jurando y perjurando que alguien arrancó páginas, que los editores estaban apurados/enojados/se equivocaron en la imprenta... pero ... ¡por favor!
El resto del libro es bastante entretenido (Y en ocasiones de dialogos me parecia estar presenciando directamente una escena en el teatro), aunque la parte 'romántica' por así decirlo es bastante mínima, y más revuelve en torno a la egoista Tiffany. Asi que en vez de llamarse el Sinigual probablemente deberia ser "Los enredos de Tiffany y como nos conocimos a pesar de ello".
*Como nota aparte de la edición en castellano: En la traducción en castellano me cayó un poca tonta la palabra "ama" para referirse a Ancilla y creo que habria sido mejor "gobernanta" o aún mejor "institutriz"(ella es la governess) .
September 24, 2010
I just love Georgette Heyer. This is a 5 star book of hers for completely different reasons then "Arabella", "Frederica" or "The Grand Sophie" (all favorite Heyer books), yet it's not quite the same as "These Old Shades" or "Devil's Cub" (My two other favorites). The first three (and several others of hers) always have me laughing out loud when I read. The last two, are romances that make my heart beat just a little faster along with wonderful adventures. The Nonesuch isn't quite the same as any of these. It has some very funny parts, but more every day life kind of funny then Saturday Night Live kind of funny. It's the two main characters that really sells this book for me. The "Nonesuch" himself is such a good man. He seems almost too good to be true, but really, it's a romance so why can't he be? Miss Trent is not so young as some of Heyer's heroines (she's one of the older types that Heyer occasionally writes so well). She's smart, and elegant, yet she has a sense of humor. Really what I like about this book is the romance that blooms so naturally. It makes total sense and it evolves very naturally. The obstacles all come from outside sources (with only very little misunderstanding between the two that is completely understandable). So often romances get caught up in the "they love each other and have to completely misunderstand each other to make it interesting" plot line. I get frustrated when the characters make their own troubles and just end up frustrating me. This book was satisfying romance that was also interesting through and through. I would recommend this to anyone who likes romance. Especially to those who are interested in trying Heyer again.
December 27, 2019
After a long break from Georgette Heyer, I was inspired by a recent Goodreads friend review to pick this one up and I'm so glad I did - this was by far my favorite of hers so far and probably won't be surpassed. The Nonesuch seemed a very deliberate homage to Jane Austen novels as I found situations that were very reminiscent of Pride and Prejudice and Emma especially. I loved this!!
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December 22, 2019Nekad se desi da čovek čita tako neku visoku umetnost koja njime briše pod na emocionalnom nivou pa mora malo da preseče nečim humanijim tj. ljubićem. E, ovo je takav slučaj. The Nonesuch (neuporedivi? jedinstveni? recimo) je ljubić 1/1 ali gura srećno i staloženo od početka pa skoro do kraja, sa simpatičnim likovima u čijoj ljubavnoj priči gotovo da su odsutni ikakvi problemi sve dok negde u poslednjoj šestini spisateljica sa uzdahom ne ubaci imbecilni nesporazum koji je mogao da se razreši prvim potpitanjem ali ne, potpitanje se odlagalo do samog kraja. Valjda je smatrala da tako mora.
Bonus poeni, kao i uvek kod Džordžet Hejer, za žargon iz doba Regentstva i plivanje u detaljno opisanoj garderobi, i muškoj i ženskoj.
Bonus poeni, kao i uvek kod Džordžet Hejer, za žargon iz doba Regentstva i plivanje u detaljno opisanoj garderobi, i muškoj i ženskoj.
April 7, 2022
Ancilla Trent is a gentlewoman whose father's untimely death in war has left the family in financial distress. Rather than repine or become a burden on relatives, Ancilla took a job as a schoolteacher, and now she is the governess-companion to a spoiled heiress from the mercantile classes. Despite these setbacks she is placidly content with her life and feels gratitude for the comforts of her situation.
Into this tranquil existence crashes Sir Waldo Hawkridge, the fabulously wealthy leader of society's sporting Corinthian set. He has inherited a property in the Yorkshire neighborhood where Ancilla works and has arrived to whip it into shape. Ancilla is all set to disapprove of him but there is an instant attraction.
The hero and heroine here are mature people, kind, well-mannered, considerate of others. For some readers that makes for a lack of drama at the center of the story, but I liked them both. Plenty of drama is supplied by the secondary characters, who as in most Heyer novels are sharply drawn, entertaining, and feel true to life.
Heyer was notorious for rarely making any revisions, and in this case that practice let her down a bit. The storyline requires Ancilla to hold some views that seem inconsistent with her life experience and general outlook, leading to a misunderstanding near the end that feels artificial to most readers. I focus instead on the very real pain Ancilla feels on the occasion and the dignity with which she sticks to her principles. For me, the subtlety and skill of the world-building in this book outweigh the flaw.
Into this tranquil existence crashes Sir Waldo Hawkridge, the fabulously wealthy leader of society's sporting Corinthian set. He has inherited a property in the Yorkshire neighborhood where Ancilla works and has arrived to whip it into shape. Ancilla is all set to disapprove of him but there is an instant attraction.
The hero and heroine here are mature people, kind, well-mannered, considerate of others. For some readers that makes for a lack of drama at the center of the story, but I liked them both. Plenty of drama is supplied by the secondary characters, who as in most Heyer novels are sharply drawn, entertaining, and feel true to life.
Heyer was notorious for rarely making any revisions, and in this case that practice let her down a bit. The storyline requires Ancilla to hold some views that seem inconsistent with her life experience and general outlook, leading to a misunderstanding near the end that feels artificial to most readers. I focus instead on the very real pain Ancilla feels on the occasion and the dignity with which she sticks to her principles. For me, the subtlety and skill of the world-building in this book outweigh the flaw.
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