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Power of the Matchmaker
The Reformer
“A charming tale, told beautifully" by the author of Amazon bestseller Fairchild. Love at first sight... Mary Buchanan is a quiet dreamer, fetching pills for her aunt, and soothing her father's monumental temper—which only gets worse when a radical journalist takes the house next door. Clearly, Mr. Samuel Brown will be nothing but trouble. But when Mary meets him, locked out of her home and caught in the rain, she instantly falls for the handsome reformer. Together, they could have the happily ever after they’ve both longed for… if she can just get him to realize it. Mary Buchanan isn’t keeping quiet anymore.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2016
105 people are currently reading
450 people want to read
About the author
Jaima Fixsen
15 books191 followersJaima Fixsen is a USA Today and international bestselling author living and writing in Alberta, Canada. Her novel The Girl in His Shadow (co-authored under the pen name Audrey Blake) was selected as Libby's 2022 Big Library Read and has been translated into eight languages.
Jaima studied occupational therapy at the University of Alberta, and her experiences learning anatomy and dissecting cadavers began her fascination with the history of science and medical ethics. She loves reading, snow, mountains, snow, history and snow. And Diet Coke.
Jaima studied occupational therapy at the University of Alberta, and her experiences learning anatomy and dissecting cadavers began her fascination with the history of science and medical ethics. She loves reading, snow, mountains, snow, history and snow. And Diet Coke.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
February 7, 2017
Each book in this series can stand alone, although I recommend reading the very first book to get a feel for who the matchmaker is and how she came to be.
Mary is an oppressed young woman, living with her doctor father and his sister. She is very stifled and a chance meeting with a handsome neighbor opens her eyes to life and causes her to start to spread her wings--in a rebellious way. Samuel is a reformer and that's very attractive to Mary. His best friend, Neil, and another neighbor, Mrs. Chin (whom I assume is Pearl--I wish her pearl comb would have been mentioned), along with servant, Annie, help shape and mold Mary into the woman she is meant to be.
With Mary's new freedom, she longs for love and has a couple of options--although it takes her awhile to realize what they are. Her true passion, aside from her growing love of politics, is her drawing, which she uses not only to support herself independently from her old-fashioned and controlling father, but to put her mark on the Reformation. I like Samuel and his head-in-the-clouds ways and his encounters with the doctor are funny, in a ridiculous way. Neil is argumentative, yet supportive, and I couldn't decide if I liked him or not. Mrs. Chin is sweet and wise and a very good inspiration for Mary.
I loved watching Mary blossom and gain strength. I loved watching character relationships develop, especially as the plot reached the pinnacle of the government crisis. I really enjoyed this last book in this series, but wasn't expecting such a politically historic tale. I'm sad to see it all come to an end and I'm really happy to find another new-to-me author through this series.
Content: mild-moderate romance (kissing, innuendo); mild language (several cuss words); mild violence, due to the Reformation.
*I received a copy through eBooks for Review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
Mary is an oppressed young woman, living with her doctor father and his sister. She is very stifled and a chance meeting with a handsome neighbor opens her eyes to life and causes her to start to spread her wings--in a rebellious way. Samuel is a reformer and that's very attractive to Mary. His best friend, Neil, and another neighbor, Mrs. Chin (whom I assume is Pearl--I wish her pearl comb would have been mentioned), along with servant, Annie, help shape and mold Mary into the woman she is meant to be.
With Mary's new freedom, she longs for love and has a couple of options--although it takes her awhile to realize what they are. Her true passion, aside from her growing love of politics, is her drawing, which she uses not only to support herself independently from her old-fashioned and controlling father, but to put her mark on the Reformation. I like Samuel and his head-in-the-clouds ways and his encounters with the doctor are funny, in a ridiculous way. Neil is argumentative, yet supportive, and I couldn't decide if I liked him or not. Mrs. Chin is sweet and wise and a very good inspiration for Mary.
I loved watching Mary blossom and gain strength. I loved watching character relationships develop, especially as the plot reached the pinnacle of the government crisis. I really enjoyed this last book in this series, but wasn't expecting such a politically historic tale. I'm sad to see it all come to an end and I'm really happy to find another new-to-me author through this series.
Content: mild-moderate romance (kissing, innuendo); mild language (several cuss words); mild violence, due to the Reformation.
*I received a copy through eBooks for Review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.*
February 9, 2017
This novel is the final book in the Power of the Matchmaker series. It has been such a fun series and I'm sad to say goodbye to Miss Pearl(the matchmaker and the one character who ties the series together), she has been fun to read about. Each author was able to portray her in their own way and give her however much page time they wanted, some more than others. But in all the books she was a fun, witty, sassy and great advocate for true love. If you haven't ventured into any books in this series, you can pick up any one without feeling lost since they are all stand alone novels. I would recommend reading the free(on Amazon) and short novella titled Power of the Matchmaker first to get a quick glimpse and understanding of who Miss Pearl is and where she came from. If I had an absolute favorite from the ones I've read in the series(I've read all but 4) I would have to pick Chasing Fireflies by Taylor Dean but that doesn't lessen my enjoyment of the other books I've read in the series. A great group of authors came together and gave me much enjoyment for many hours.
I know I diverged there for a minute about the series when this review is really about this book, The Reformer. Overall I enjoyed this story, all the little hidden bits that were slowly revealed, which wrapped up all my questions by the end of the book. I will admit it took me a little while to feel connected with Mary Buchanan, our heroine. I couldn't decide if it was because I was really tired when I was trying to read just a few pages at a time or if it was the writing style, or a combination. I found it interesting how the author started out writing, almost as if you're watching a movie and a narrator is cluing us in on what is happening in a certain house on a certain street and all the main players within that home. That narration feel doesn't last long but just for the opening. I thought it was a very clever way to open the book but honestly I think my overly tired brain from a long Christmas break and very little sleep was slow to pick up on anything.
Mary's family life is lacking substantially. She is almost like a prisoner in her own home. Her father is a Doctor and runs his practice from their home. Her Aunt Yates suffers from headaches and ailments that she must rest most of the time and the other amount of time she is running the household with an iron fist. Mary doesn't remember much about her mother and is trying to find out from her father details about her, what she was like, hair/eye color, what she enjoyed doing, who her family was and most importantly how she died. Unfortunately, mum's the word on any talk about her mother. Mary is suffocating in her home and needs to get out. Fortunately for her, the cook and a young housemaid are her friends and help her sneak out every once in a while for some much needed fresh air.
Unfortunately for Mary, on either side of them reside neighbors whom her father cannot abide by. Yet when she finds herself introduced to either, she can't stop her curiosity and need for friendship...and possibly a little romance and love. The newspaper man next door is beyond handsome and her first interaction with him tells her there is a lot of potential for a relationship and marriage between them. Yet again, her father steps up and labels Samuel Brown a taboo subject.
As Mary escapes to the refugee of her other neighbor, Mrs. Chin(Miss Pearl), she finds solace and comfort in their friendship and realizes that there is so much out there in life than she has seen. As our matchmaker starts playing matchmaker Mary finds herself in the presence of Samuel and his close friend Niall Murray. Mary is infuriated by Niall and doesn't understand how one man can be so rude, but unfortunately she is constantly running into him and if there ever is to be a connection with Samuel she must learn to be tolerable of his rudeness.
Mary starts a little intrigue with her drawings and soon finds herself employed and sneaking around without her father's knowledge. Of course it all comes to a head when he discovers her sneaking and he believes much more is happening and won't listen to anything she has to say.
What will come of her newfound freedom and friendships now that she has been discovered? There is danger occurring in the city with reformation coming. Can her father keep her safe from that danger? Will she ever have questions answered about her mother? Will she ever find true love? Or will she be stuck as a prisoner in her home forever, feeling trapped, alone and unloved?
For the most part I liked Mary's character but then other times I found her a little irritating or frustrating. And yet I couldn't help but look at her home life and know that she had been very sheltered and was trying to understand life that had been happening around her without any knowledge. I did like that she tried to take her life into her own hands and make the best of her situation. Her father and aunt made me mad many times and I wasn't sure what my final opinion of them was going to be. I'm not going to say because I'll leave that for you to decide if you choose to read it. I also wasn't always the biggest fan of Samuel Brown and Niall Murray, for many reasons but I can't say because then, once again, I'd give away a major plot point. So you're stuck with those questions I posed and without too much detail to avoid any spoilers for you readers.
The love story within was slow and took Mary some time to realize but I liked the interactions she had with the gentleman and how they both came to realize the love they had for each other. Mrs. Chin was fun and her normal sneaky self.
Content wise I would say the book was clean. At first I wondered because of an interaction she had with a man. Some of his thoughts and later conversations about her carried some innuendos. We also have Mary trying to figure out why men and women are attracted to each other. She takes it into her own hands to learn about the birds and bees, so there is a moment where she reads one of her father's anatomy books and learns about the male anatomy and sex. There were also a couple sweet kisses but nothing further than kisses between characters. Some violence due to street riots caused by voting and passing/not passing reform measures. Nothing too graphic. I'd recommend for older YA and up.
I received a copy from ebooks, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I know I diverged there for a minute about the series when this review is really about this book, The Reformer. Overall I enjoyed this story, all the little hidden bits that were slowly revealed, which wrapped up all my questions by the end of the book. I will admit it took me a little while to feel connected with Mary Buchanan, our heroine. I couldn't decide if it was because I was really tired when I was trying to read just a few pages at a time or if it was the writing style, or a combination. I found it interesting how the author started out writing, almost as if you're watching a movie and a narrator is cluing us in on what is happening in a certain house on a certain street and all the main players within that home. That narration feel doesn't last long but just for the opening. I thought it was a very clever way to open the book but honestly I think my overly tired brain from a long Christmas break and very little sleep was slow to pick up on anything.
Mary's family life is lacking substantially. She is almost like a prisoner in her own home. Her father is a Doctor and runs his practice from their home. Her Aunt Yates suffers from headaches and ailments that she must rest most of the time and the other amount of time she is running the household with an iron fist. Mary doesn't remember much about her mother and is trying to find out from her father details about her, what she was like, hair/eye color, what she enjoyed doing, who her family was and most importantly how she died. Unfortunately, mum's the word on any talk about her mother. Mary is suffocating in her home and needs to get out. Fortunately for her, the cook and a young housemaid are her friends and help her sneak out every once in a while for some much needed fresh air.
Unfortunately for Mary, on either side of them reside neighbors whom her father cannot abide by. Yet when she finds herself introduced to either, she can't stop her curiosity and need for friendship...and possibly a little romance and love. The newspaper man next door is beyond handsome and her first interaction with him tells her there is a lot of potential for a relationship and marriage between them. Yet again, her father steps up and labels Samuel Brown a taboo subject.
As Mary escapes to the refugee of her other neighbor, Mrs. Chin(Miss Pearl), she finds solace and comfort in their friendship and realizes that there is so much out there in life than she has seen. As our matchmaker starts playing matchmaker Mary finds herself in the presence of Samuel and his close friend Niall Murray. Mary is infuriated by Niall and doesn't understand how one man can be so rude, but unfortunately she is constantly running into him and if there ever is to be a connection with Samuel she must learn to be tolerable of his rudeness.
Mary starts a little intrigue with her drawings and soon finds herself employed and sneaking around without her father's knowledge. Of course it all comes to a head when he discovers her sneaking and he believes much more is happening and won't listen to anything she has to say.
What will come of her newfound freedom and friendships now that she has been discovered? There is danger occurring in the city with reformation coming. Can her father keep her safe from that danger? Will she ever have questions answered about her mother? Will she ever find true love? Or will she be stuck as a prisoner in her home forever, feeling trapped, alone and unloved?
For the most part I liked Mary's character but then other times I found her a little irritating or frustrating. And yet I couldn't help but look at her home life and know that she had been very sheltered and was trying to understand life that had been happening around her without any knowledge. I did like that she tried to take her life into her own hands and make the best of her situation. Her father and aunt made me mad many times and I wasn't sure what my final opinion of them was going to be. I'm not going to say because I'll leave that for you to decide if you choose to read it. I also wasn't always the biggest fan of Samuel Brown and Niall Murray, for many reasons but I can't say because then, once again, I'd give away a major plot point. So you're stuck with those questions I posed and without too much detail to avoid any spoilers for you readers.
The love story within was slow and took Mary some time to realize but I liked the interactions she had with the gentleman and how they both came to realize the love they had for each other. Mrs. Chin was fun and her normal sneaky self.
Content wise I would say the book was clean. At first I wondered because of an interaction she had with a man. Some of his thoughts and later conversations about her carried some innuendos. We also have Mary trying to figure out why men and women are attracted to each other. She takes it into her own hands to learn about the birds and bees, so there is a moment where she reads one of her father's anatomy books and learns about the male anatomy and sex. There were also a couple sweet kisses but nothing further than kisses between characters. Some violence due to street riots caused by voting and passing/not passing reform measures. Nothing too graphic. I'd recommend for older YA and up.
I received a copy from ebooks, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
February 7, 2017
Another favorite from the Power of the Matchmaker series, and a new-to-me author discovered! I really enjoyed the writing style, the way the author protrayed the mundane and repressed life of Mary without it being boring, and her transformation into somewhat of a rebel. Mary's one passion she is allowed to have is drawing, and the descriptions of the caricatures she draws of those around her reveal a wry and cynical part of her personality, which make some of her later choices understandable. She develops a romantic obsession with Samuel, a man she hardly knows but finds herself attracted to, which brings with it an association with Samuel's good friend and protector, Niall. He isn't pleasant to her in an effort to scare her off his friend, but it backfires by helping her find her spine and he becomes an outlet for her before-hidden sassiness. I loved their interactions!!! Poor Niall finds himself shifting from defender of Samuel to self-appointed protector of Mary, and the twists in the plot were angst-inducing. I enjoyed the historical setting and learning more about the reform movement in England, which also provided some action when the riots start. The matchmaker's role in the story as Mary's neighbor Mrs. Chin is an integral one which I liked since it didn't make her seem random. Her love for gardening, long talks with Niall, and appreciation of Mary's drawing skills are endearing and I felt like she was more well-rounded in this story than in some of the others. I'm looking forward to reading the other books written by this author!
(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)
(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)
February 4, 2017
I'm so sad that we've reached the end of the Power of the Matchmaker series. What a fun adventure it has been. I have loved reading these books, all from different authors, that span the ages from contemporary to regency. Each book stands alone and you can read them in any order. They all share one common character- the matchmaker Pearl, who we meet in the novella that set this whole series in motion. I would recommend reading that book first before you begin this series, if you haven't already.
Jaima Fixen is a new author to me. I haven't read any of her books before now but I do have Fair Child on my kindle, just waiting to be read. Someday. :) Hopefully soon.
I enjoyed this book and especially the time and setting of England during the Reformation period. It was interesting to me and I felt like the characters and the setting really complimented each other well. This book moves at a more sedate pace than some.
Mary is definitely naive. She has been securely sheltered by her father and has not been given the opportunities to learn and develop her keen mind. Her wings have been clipped all her life and she has never had the chance to fly. I didn't fall in love with Mary but there were moments that I loved her pluck and determination. I loved that she wanted to learn and become her own woman and found ways to be heard.
Another thing I loved about this book was the role that Pearl played. She was a very large part of the story and she seemed more developed in this book than in many of the others. It was nice to have her as a more solid presence.
Overall, a great ending to a fantastic series. I was really hoping we were going to see something similar this new year, but alas, nothing. This is a series I would highly recommend. Clean romance- a variety of settings and genres. It's the perfect way find new authors to love!
Content: Clean- some talk of sexual matters (Mary is so naive and doesn't understand- she asks questions and reads a book about sexual relations between men and women)
- I received this book for free. I was under no obligation to give a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Jaima Fixen is a new author to me. I haven't read any of her books before now but I do have Fair Child on my kindle, just waiting to be read. Someday. :) Hopefully soon.
I enjoyed this book and especially the time and setting of England during the Reformation period. It was interesting to me and I felt like the characters and the setting really complimented each other well. This book moves at a more sedate pace than some.
Mary is definitely naive. She has been securely sheltered by her father and has not been given the opportunities to learn and develop her keen mind. Her wings have been clipped all her life and she has never had the chance to fly. I didn't fall in love with Mary but there were moments that I loved her pluck and determination. I loved that she wanted to learn and become her own woman and found ways to be heard.
Another thing I loved about this book was the role that Pearl played. She was a very large part of the story and she seemed more developed in this book than in many of the others. It was nice to have her as a more solid presence.
Overall, a great ending to a fantastic series. I was really hoping we were going to see something similar this new year, but alas, nothing. This is a series I would highly recommend. Clean romance- a variety of settings and genres. It's the perfect way find new authors to love!
Content: Clean- some talk of sexual matters (Mary is so naive and doesn't understand- she asks questions and reads a book about sexual relations between men and women)
- I received this book for free. I was under no obligation to give a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.
December 1, 2016
This is the final book of the Matchmaker series. I have read all the Matchmaker books and have loved most of them. I love that this series has not been "cookie-cutter" at all! The Reformer was set in the 1830's in England. Mary Buchanan leads a very suppressed and sheltered life while she keeps hoping for destiny to change that. When political reformer Samuel Brown moves in next door, Mary's life is destined to change. And when Samuel's best friend, Neil Murray, shows up trying to discourage her from pursuing Samuel, Mary's life is going to change even more. My favorite description of Mary in the book is "an unpredictable mix of deviousness, determination, and straightforward honesty."
I loved how Mary found her voice and learned to stand up for herself. She grew up a lot in this book, and in the end realized that she was going to have to stand up for herself again if she was going to have lasting happiness. Her character reminded me a lot of Valancy in L.M. Montgomery's "The Blue Castle" so it was fun to read the author's note at the end and see that she was influenced by L.M. Montgomery and Valancy.
I loved Pearl's (the matchmaker) role in this book as Mrs. Chin. She seemed the right mix of subtle, devious, nosy and friendly.
Rating: 4.5 stars (I kept going back and forth between 4 & 5 stars for this one, and in the end decided on 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because I really liked Mary)
Content: PG-13. There was a part (that wasn't even necessary to the story so I wish it had just been left out) where she learns about "the birds and the bees" from the drawings in one of her father's books, and then she has follow-up conversations with her maid so she can feel more sophisticated and draw salacious cartoons.
Source: Review copy (opinion is 100% my own)
I loved how Mary found her voice and learned to stand up for herself. She grew up a lot in this book, and in the end realized that she was going to have to stand up for herself again if she was going to have lasting happiness. Her character reminded me a lot of Valancy in L.M. Montgomery's "The Blue Castle" so it was fun to read the author's note at the end and see that she was influenced by L.M. Montgomery and Valancy.
I loved Pearl's (the matchmaker) role in this book as Mrs. Chin. She seemed the right mix of subtle, devious, nosy and friendly.
Rating: 4.5 stars (I kept going back and forth between 4 & 5 stars for this one, and in the end decided on 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because I really liked Mary)
Content: PG-13. There was a part (that wasn't even necessary to the story so I wish it had just been left out) where she learns about "the birds and the bees" from the drawings in one of her father's books, and then she has follow-up conversations with her maid so she can feel more sophisticated and draw salacious cartoons.
Source: Review copy (opinion is 100% my own)
November 21, 2017
To say Mary Buchanan leads a boring life could be considered somewhat of an understatement. She spends her days trying to keep her father's temperament in check and fetching powders or laudanum for her Aunt Yates' migraines and other 'ailments'. At almost 18 years old she hasn't had a season and doesn't seem to have any type of social life unless you count attending church. Although her father seems to be a busy and well respected doctor the family seems to live quite frugally, if the descriptions of Mary's clothing and her Aunt Yates routinely taking inventory and thorough inspections of the household are any indications.
As Mary's father is very conventional, naturally he's against political reform, and he also seems to dislike the Chinese. When Samuel Brown, a 'radical' journalist, moves into the house next door Mary's father is extremely displeased since they already have Mrs. Chin (Miss Pearl) living on the other side of them.
Mary first meets Samuel Brown when she's inadvertently locked out of her house (she isn't allowed a key) in a downpour, and finds she's instantly attracted to him. His best friend, Neil Murray is quite rude to Mary in an effort to dissuade her from pursuing Samuel.
Mary's only outlet seems to be drawing and she starts drawing pictures of botanicals for Mrs. Chin. Later she anonymously leaves political cartoons at Samuel's house which leads to Mary secretly working for The Times.
I really felt for Mary--she seemed to simply be tolerated by her father and aunt, but came into her own once she started drawing the political cartoons. She accepted the way her family treated her for what it was and something she couldn't change but made plans to use her drawing talent to make money so she could move out and live on her own.
I'm not sure how I feel about Samuel--he was very devoted to the cause of reform but it seemed he was unable to give that much devotion to a wife. His best friend (and brother-in-law) Neil had good intentions for keeping Samuel and Mary apart, but came on a little too strong. Mary was very young and Samuel was probably her first crush--Neil didn't have to treat her as rudely as he did at Mrs. Chin's house that one morning when she rushed home in tears. It serves him right that he would turn around and fall in love with her himself. Lol.
I don't know why the character of Pearl is called Mrs. Chin in this book, but I found her as mysterious as ever. This is the last book in the Power of the Matchmaker series and although I haven't had the opportunity to read all of them, I'm sad to see the series end.
Jaima Fixsen is a new author to me but I enjoyed this book. There was a surprise towards the end that I definitely didn't see coming. This is a clean romance.
As Mary's father is very conventional, naturally he's against political reform, and he also seems to dislike the Chinese. When Samuel Brown, a 'radical' journalist, moves into the house next door Mary's father is extremely displeased since they already have Mrs. Chin (Miss Pearl) living on the other side of them.
Mary first meets Samuel Brown when she's inadvertently locked out of her house (she isn't allowed a key) in a downpour, and finds she's instantly attracted to him. His best friend, Neil Murray is quite rude to Mary in an effort to dissuade her from pursuing Samuel.
Mary's only outlet seems to be drawing and she starts drawing pictures of botanicals for Mrs. Chin. Later she anonymously leaves political cartoons at Samuel's house which leads to Mary secretly working for The Times.
I really felt for Mary--she seemed to simply be tolerated by her father and aunt, but came into her own once she started drawing the political cartoons. She accepted the way her family treated her for what it was and something she couldn't change but made plans to use her drawing talent to make money so she could move out and live on her own.
I'm not sure how I feel about Samuel--he was very devoted to the cause of reform but it seemed he was unable to give that much devotion to a wife. His best friend (and brother-in-law) Neil had good intentions for keeping Samuel and Mary apart, but came on a little too strong. Mary was very young and Samuel was probably her first crush--Neil didn't have to treat her as rudely as he did at Mrs. Chin's house that one morning when she rushed home in tears. It serves him right that he would turn around and fall in love with her himself. Lol.
I don't know why the character of Pearl is called Mrs. Chin in this book, but I found her as mysterious as ever. This is the last book in the Power of the Matchmaker series and although I haven't had the opportunity to read all of them, I'm sad to see the series end.
Jaima Fixsen is a new author to me but I enjoyed this book. There was a surprise towards the end that I definitely didn't see coming. This is a clean romance.
February 7, 2017
(4.5 stars) Mary's home life is tough. She's 17 years old, lonely and bored. Her mother died some years ago, and neither her father nor aunt will talk about her. She feels like she's tolerated rather than loved. Her political leanings are different than her father's but she keeps her opinions to herself to keep the peace in her home. Life gets more interesting for her when Samuel Brown, a reformer who writes for the Times, moves in next door. The more she learns about him, the more she knows he is the perfect match for her. She just needs to get him to see her that way.
I enjoyed this book and getting to know the characters! It was fun to watch Mary's character develop and grow throughout the book. I got a chuckle out of the way her father and Samuel treated each other. The matchmaker, Pearl, appeared as Mrs. Chin. She played a subtle role in this story and was able to steer Mary in the right direction. And then there's Neil, Samuel's best friend who is determined to keep Mary away from Samuel. I loved how the story progressed and the twists that were thrown in to keep it interesting!
This is the final installment in the Matchmaker series. I'm sad to see it come to an end and hope to see more of this type of collaboration in the future. It's been fun to find some new authors along the way, including this one. I enjoyed her writing style and will definitely read more of her work in the future!
I received a complimentary copy via eBooks for Review, which did not affect my review in any way
Mel's Shelves
I enjoyed this book and getting to know the characters! It was fun to watch Mary's character develop and grow throughout the book. I got a chuckle out of the way her father and Samuel treated each other. The matchmaker, Pearl, appeared as Mrs. Chin. She played a subtle role in this story and was able to steer Mary in the right direction. And then there's Neil, Samuel's best friend who is determined to keep Mary away from Samuel. I loved how the story progressed and the twists that were thrown in to keep it interesting!
This is the final installment in the Matchmaker series. I'm sad to see it come to an end and hope to see more of this type of collaboration in the future. It's been fun to find some new authors along the way, including this one. I enjoyed her writing style and will definitely read more of her work in the future!
I received a complimentary copy via eBooks for Review, which did not affect my review in any way
Mel's Shelves
February 6, 2017
I have enjoyed my time with Pearl, a Chinese matchmaker who has a gift in bringing couples together. I am sad to see this series come to an end, but the books will still be there for me to read when I need a matchmaker fix.
This story focuses on Mary. She is the daughter of a prominent Doctor. She is sheltered an not allowed to do things that interest or enlighten her. Her father is against the English Reformation. He is very old fashioned, particularly where his daughter is concerned.
They have a new neighbor move in who is writes about the Reformation. Mary's father feels that he is a threat and takes measures to keep his daughter away from the upstart. Of course, this only fuels her attraction and attempts to catch Samuel Brown's notice. She begins to read the forbidden London Times, the paper that Mr. Brown writes for and is drawn by his words. Her horizons expand and she joins the movement with cartoon drawings.
In this rendition, Pear is know as Mrs. Chin. She is a neighbor to both Samuel and Mary. She is able to finagle interactions between Samuel, Mary, and Samuel's friend, Niall. The trio are unlikely cohorts, but work well together. Samuel and Niall open the doors to independence for Mary and she thrives. So much so, that she becomes a problem to her father's ideals of womanhood.
This story has some twists that I don't want to get into, because they would be spoilers. I will say that I was very happy for the way everything turned out. It was just as I wanted it to be! I enjoyed the friendships, banter, uncomfortable situations, and devotion that I found in this book. Jaima Fixsen writes with a great voice. I loved the way she described the characters and the way that they were developed. This is a great addition to a wonderful series. I highly recommend every book.
This book contains a funny way that Mary learns of male/female relations. It contains innuendo.
This story focuses on Mary. She is the daughter of a prominent Doctor. She is sheltered an not allowed to do things that interest or enlighten her. Her father is against the English Reformation. He is very old fashioned, particularly where his daughter is concerned.
They have a new neighbor move in who is writes about the Reformation. Mary's father feels that he is a threat and takes measures to keep his daughter away from the upstart. Of course, this only fuels her attraction and attempts to catch Samuel Brown's notice. She begins to read the forbidden London Times, the paper that Mr. Brown writes for and is drawn by his words. Her horizons expand and she joins the movement with cartoon drawings.
In this rendition, Pear is know as Mrs. Chin. She is a neighbor to both Samuel and Mary. She is able to finagle interactions between Samuel, Mary, and Samuel's friend, Niall. The trio are unlikely cohorts, but work well together. Samuel and Niall open the doors to independence for Mary and she thrives. So much so, that she becomes a problem to her father's ideals of womanhood.
This story has some twists that I don't want to get into, because they would be spoilers. I will say that I was very happy for the way everything turned out. It was just as I wanted it to be! I enjoyed the friendships, banter, uncomfortable situations, and devotion that I found in this book. Jaima Fixsen writes with a great voice. I loved the way she described the characters and the way that they were developed. This is a great addition to a wonderful series. I highly recommend every book.
This book contains a funny way that Mary learns of male/female relations. It contains innuendo.
December 22, 2016
3.5 Stars
Has more mature content than some of the other Power of the Matchmakers.
http://brooke-brookesbooks.blogspot.c...
Has more mature content than some of the other Power of the Matchmakers.
http://brooke-brookesbooks.blogspot.c...
November 11, 2016
Seventeen year old Mary Buchanan lives with her father, Dr. Sidney Buchanan, and his sister (her Aunt), Mrs. Susan Yates. Aunt Yates’s “favorite hobby is suffering” (I love that line. LOL), and “her favorite companion is her own ill- health”. Dr. Buchanan is dead set on any kind of reform. You can imagine his distress when Mr. Samuel Brown, a “reformer” and writer for the Times, moves in right next door. It is the worst thing to happen to the neighborhood since an “Oriental”, Mrs. Chin, moved into the house on the corner. Samuel brings with him his brother-in-law, Neil Murray. Neil doesn’t live in the neighborhood but he and Samuel have been best friends since school days and they are often together. Samuel’s young wife, Neil’s sister, died a short time after they were married; and he is still consumed with guilt and feels responsible for her death.
Mrs. Chin is, of course, the matchmaker mentioned in the subtitle. She is about to help a couple of young people fall in love. If Mary is lucky she might be one of them. But will it be Samuel, who she is immediately attracted to, or his best friend, Neil? Neil never attracts the girls but they are always falling at Samuel’s feet even though Samuel seems to be oblivious to his effect on them. Neil doesn’t want his friend hurt again so he feels he has to do what he can to discourage the young Mary from bothering Samuel. Too bad that means he ends up spending quite a bit of time with Mary and starts to find her very attractive himself. So the love triangle develops and even Mrs. Chin gives up on them. Only Mary can straighten it out. Who will she choose?
This is a great story. I have read a couple of the Matchmaker books and so far have enjoyed all of them. You don’t always see what the matchmaker is doing until it all comes together, she is very subtle.
I really like stories written by Jaima Fixsen and have read several of them. They have all been very good and she is one of my favorite authors. I received a free copy of this book from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
Mrs. Chin is, of course, the matchmaker mentioned in the subtitle. She is about to help a couple of young people fall in love. If Mary is lucky she might be one of them. But will it be Samuel, who she is immediately attracted to, or his best friend, Neil? Neil never attracts the girls but they are always falling at Samuel’s feet even though Samuel seems to be oblivious to his effect on them. Neil doesn’t want his friend hurt again so he feels he has to do what he can to discourage the young Mary from bothering Samuel. Too bad that means he ends up spending quite a bit of time with Mary and starts to find her very attractive himself. So the love triangle develops and even Mrs. Chin gives up on them. Only Mary can straighten it out. Who will she choose?
This is a great story. I have read a couple of the Matchmaker books and so far have enjoyed all of them. You don’t always see what the matchmaker is doing until it all comes together, she is very subtle.
I really like stories written by Jaima Fixsen and have read several of them. They have all been very good and she is one of my favorite authors. I received a free copy of this book from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review. I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
February 7, 2017
When I first started reading The Reformer I had no idea it was part of the Power of Matchmaker series. I had also never read anything from Jaima Fixsen before. I was very excited to read this story as I love anything in Historical England.
The book takes place in 1830 England. At that time the country and people wanted a change. Mary Buchanan had a less than meaningful life. She occupied her time helping her ailing aunt, agreeing with her politically opinionated doctor father, and her love of drawing. Her life changed when new neighbor, Samuel Brown, moves in next door. Samuel is a political reformer destined to change the world along with his best friend Neil Murray. Mary becomes infatuated with Samuel and soon begins her own journey of new ideas and self-reliance.
When I began this book, I had a difficult time being engaged in the story. As I continued I started finding myself becoming more and more interested in Mary. I wanted her to break out of her mundane life and discover herself. I enjoyed seeing her love art and using it to her advantage. She became determined and confident while learning about life and love.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a cute romance while learning a bit of history. I would consider it a clean read even though Mary learns about attraction between men and women. A kiss is as far as it goes. This novel can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. I look forward to reading more in the Power of Matchmaker series and also by Jaima Fixsen.
Please note I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The book takes place in 1830 England. At that time the country and people wanted a change. Mary Buchanan had a less than meaningful life. She occupied her time helping her ailing aunt, agreeing with her politically opinionated doctor father, and her love of drawing. Her life changed when new neighbor, Samuel Brown, moves in next door. Samuel is a political reformer destined to change the world along with his best friend Neil Murray. Mary becomes infatuated with Samuel and soon begins her own journey of new ideas and self-reliance.
When I began this book, I had a difficult time being engaged in the story. As I continued I started finding myself becoming more and more interested in Mary. I wanted her to break out of her mundane life and discover herself. I enjoyed seeing her love art and using it to her advantage. She became determined and confident while learning about life and love.
I recommend this book for anyone who enjoys a cute romance while learning a bit of history. I would consider it a clean read even though Mary learns about attraction between men and women. A kiss is as far as it goes. This novel can be enjoyed as a stand-alone. I look forward to reading more in the Power of Matchmaker series and also by Jaima Fixsen.
Please note I received a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2017
I had a harder time getting into this book and never really connected with the characters. Mary’s life is very sheltered and her father and aunt do not treat her well. I felt for her, and liked seeing her grow and find her self-confidence, but never felt invested in her story. I didn’t feel like I ever got to know Samuel, beyond his passion for the reform movement. Niall annoyed me in the beginning, but grew on me as the book went on. I did like the way things ended.
The romantic relationships are clean, but there is some innuendo and the heroine turns to a book to learn about sex and some of the physical responses are described. In my opinion, it wasn’t necessary. I’ve read nine other books in the series, and all have been very clean, so I was surprised to see those things included.
The Power of the Matchmaker series is now complete. It has been fun to read these books and see the different techniques Miss Pearl uses to help couples find love. In this book, Miss Pearl is never actually called by that name. She goes by Mrs. Chin, and is Mary’s neighbor. I really enjoyed her part in the story.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. This review contains my honest opinion.
The romantic relationships are clean, but there is some innuendo and the heroine turns to a book to learn about sex and some of the physical responses are described. In my opinion, it wasn’t necessary. I’ve read nine other books in the series, and all have been very clean, so I was surprised to see those things included.
The Power of the Matchmaker series is now complete. It has been fun to read these books and see the different techniques Miss Pearl uses to help couples find love. In this book, Miss Pearl is never actually called by that name. She goes by Mrs. Chin, and is Mary’s neighbor. I really enjoyed her part in the story.
I received a complimentary copy of the book. This review contains my honest opinion.
January 11, 2017
This book was part of the Power of the Matchmaker series. However, it can stand alone.
Honestly, I had a really hard time getting in to this book. I missed seeing more of Miss Pearl- who appears in all of the Matchmaker books. I also never really connected with the characters.
I'm giving it 3 stars because the 1830's setting was neat and I think the historical aspect of the book was interesting. Overall, not my favorite of the series. It was just ok for me.
Honestly, I had a really hard time getting in to this book. I missed seeing more of Miss Pearl- who appears in all of the Matchmaker books. I also never really connected with the characters.
I'm giving it 3 stars because the 1830's setting was neat and I think the historical aspect of the book was interesting. Overall, not my favorite of the series. It was just ok for me.
December 13, 2016
Between 3 1/2 and 4.
I enjoyed this story. It took me some chapters to get used to the voice, it wasn't my favorite.
It's a well researched historical and the main character went through some growth. I also liked the scenes with Pearl.
I enjoyed this story. It took me some chapters to get used to the voice, it wasn't my favorite.
It's a well researched historical and the main character went through some growth. I also liked the scenes with Pearl.
December 14, 2016
So this book was fascinating. Yes, it's a great romance, with an unexpected plot that takes place during the political chaos of 1830's England during the reformation period. Also, it's #12 in the Power of the Matchmaker series so our beloved Ms. Pearl is present and stirring things up as usual.
June 21, 2017
I love Jaima's smart and witty style. Her books are always well researched, her characters unique and real, and her language beautiful. A wonderful finale to the Power of the Matchmaker series.
February 7, 2017
For the most part, I enjoyed The Reformer by Jaima Fixsen. Mary is young, naive, and impressionable at the beginning of the book. She has a deplorable home life with a distant angry father and a hypochondriac aunt who rules the house with an iron fist. But with the help of the cook and a maid, Mary finds her freedom in occasional outings and in her talent with drawing. When she fixates on the reformer, Mr. Samuel Brown, who moves in next door and also becomes friends with another new neighbor, Mrs. Chin (aka Pearl), her future is irrevocably changed. And this is where the story proceeded to disgust me. Because of her crush on Mr. Samuel Brown, she ends up using her talent for drawing to create caricatures that are published in a newspaper. If they were just political in nature it wouldn't have bothered me but for various reasons, Mary decides she needs to learn about a man and woman's anatomy and sex ( which she reads about in graphic detail in her father's doctor books). She then proceeds to put sexual innuendo into her caricatures. If I hadn't agreed to review this book, I would not have finished it after this. The rest of Mary's story has a few twists that contribute to the maturing of her character and a satisfying ending.
*Thanks to eBooksForReview for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid or required to post a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
*Thanks to eBooksForReview for a complimentary copy of this book. I was not paid or required to post a positive review and all opinions stated are my own.*
February 10, 2017
Mary lives a life that would definitely make anyone dream for release! Her father and aunt are less than loving in a world of reform and politics. Mary finds the new neighbor Mr Samuel Brown, a journalist, attractive and appealing. Her father is not on the same political stand as Mr Brown and Mary wants to know what makes Mr Brown tick. So with her drawing talent, she finds a way into his world by drawing cartoons to match his articles in the "other newspaper". Her Papa would definitely not approve and the neighbors do not get along.
When things get bad; as in Mary is caught with a letter from Samuel and there is protests and politics going awry, her papa sends her to Bath.
Mr. Neil Murray is best friends with Mr Brown and he goes to check on Mary in Bath. While he pretends he is there for healing, he appeases Mary's aunt and appears to be Mary's suitor in Bath. Mr Murray and Mary have been at odds from the beginning. But in Bath, things look and feel a little different. Both are away from the heat of politics and Samuel, and Neil becomes more himself and finding his feelings for Mary changing. Mary even notices her feelings but is hell bent on Mr Brown because she would just accept someone who just finds her in good regards not really even love.
I am not a political person. Mary really isn't either but chose to immerse herself in it for the sake of getting Mr Brown as she believes he would care for her. After the book ends. The author has many comments on the times and where her writings come from and the liberties she took. There is a lot of rioting not unlike what is happening here in the US lately! So, I really couldn't get into that part of the story.
As far as the Matchmaker goes, she was totally different in this book. Her name was different and no mention of her hairpiece with the pearls on it. I just assumed it to be the same women in all the other books in the series.
As far as love goes, I liked the slow change from not liking each other (Neil and Mary to falling in love. Love takes time and I like how Mary had to figure things out all on her own. Neil was a wonderful person and I wish I could have heard his Scottish accent in my head when I read the book!
When things get bad; as in Mary is caught with a letter from Samuel and there is protests and politics going awry, her papa sends her to Bath.
Mr. Neil Murray is best friends with Mr Brown and he goes to check on Mary in Bath. While he pretends he is there for healing, he appeases Mary's aunt and appears to be Mary's suitor in Bath. Mr Murray and Mary have been at odds from the beginning. But in Bath, things look and feel a little different. Both are away from the heat of politics and Samuel, and Neil becomes more himself and finding his feelings for Mary changing. Mary even notices her feelings but is hell bent on Mr Brown because she would just accept someone who just finds her in good regards not really even love.
I am not a political person. Mary really isn't either but chose to immerse herself in it for the sake of getting Mr Brown as she believes he would care for her. After the book ends. The author has many comments on the times and where her writings come from and the liberties she took. There is a lot of rioting not unlike what is happening here in the US lately! So, I really couldn't get into that part of the story.
As far as the Matchmaker goes, she was totally different in this book. Her name was different and no mention of her hairpiece with the pearls on it. I just assumed it to be the same women in all the other books in the series.
As far as love goes, I liked the slow change from not liking each other (Neil and Mary to falling in love. Love takes time and I like how Mary had to figure things out all on her own. Neil was a wonderful person and I wish I could have heard his Scottish accent in my head when I read the book!
February 13, 2017
3.5 stars
I received this ebook through ebooksforreview.
This is the last installment of the Power of the Matchmaker series.
We bid Miss Pearl goodbye...
This one wasn't my favorite in the series, but was still good. The British reform isn't necessarily my favorite time period, though I learned a lot about it reading this book. It was very liberal and political, but the story still intrigued me.
Mary was hard for me to like. She is very stubborn and disobeys her father and aunt on multiple occasions. Samuel was so radical and politically driven, I also had a hard time relating to his character. I like Neil though. I loved the way he tried to protect Mary and was even willing to put his own feelings aside.
I started loosing interest about midway through, but it to better not too long after.
I also really much appreciated how the author concluded the book. I won't say much more to not spoil it for anyone.
Overall, a good read.
I received this ebook through ebooksforreview.
This is the last installment of the Power of the Matchmaker series.
We bid Miss Pearl goodbye...
This one wasn't my favorite in the series, but was still good. The British reform isn't necessarily my favorite time period, though I learned a lot about it reading this book. It was very liberal and political, but the story still intrigued me.
Mary was hard for me to like. She is very stubborn and disobeys her father and aunt on multiple occasions. Samuel was so radical and politically driven, I also had a hard time relating to his character. I like Neil though. I loved the way he tried to protect Mary and was even willing to put his own feelings aside.
I started loosing interest about midway through, but it to better not too long after.
I also really much appreciated how the author concluded the book. I won't say much more to not spoil it for anyone.
Overall, a good read.
November 30, 2016
I loved it!
This a timeless, well researcher historical coming of age page turner that kept me up late reading into the night. Through (our heroine) Mary Buchanan's rebellion from her aunt and father her eyes are opened more to the English world around her, to relationships and to herself. It really is a delightful read. Mary's character is so endearing that you want to be her best friend and your heart is right with her through her escapades.
Regency romance purists, this story is about the working class and although it does follow social decorum of the era it is often broken with little or no sociatal consequences. I do not think this breaks from the historical value though as the storyline is full of, and more driven by, historically political content.
This book is clean, but has mature content about sexuality. Because of the rebellious behavior and coming of age discoveries I would not recommend this for a young and innocent audience if you wanted them to stay that way. (I would rate this a PG-13)
I traded this honest review for a digital copy of the book.
This a timeless, well researcher historical coming of age page turner that kept me up late reading into the night. Through (our heroine) Mary Buchanan's rebellion from her aunt and father her eyes are opened more to the English world around her, to relationships and to herself. It really is a delightful read. Mary's character is so endearing that you want to be her best friend and your heart is right with her through her escapades.
Regency romance purists, this story is about the working class and although it does follow social decorum of the era it is often broken with little or no sociatal consequences. I do not think this breaks from the historical value though as the storyline is full of, and more driven by, historically political content.
This book is clean, but has mature content about sexuality. Because of the rebellious behavior and coming of age discoveries I would not recommend this for a young and innocent audience if you wanted them to stay that way. (I would rate this a PG-13)
I traded this honest review for a digital copy of the book.
February 3, 2017
I recently switched phones and I lost a number of books and the notes that went with them. Sadly, this book was apart of my sad tragedy with my books. I will do my best to review.
This book is the last book in the Power of the Matchmaker series. It can be read as part of the series or as a stand alone.
Mary Buchanan is a young woman who lives with her father and aunt. She is a secluded being and doesn't leave her London home much.
Samuel Brown is an out spoken political reformer who moves in next door. From first site, Mary is attracted and intrigued by Samuel. However, Samuel is blind to her intentions.
Samuel's friend, Neil Murray currently lives in London as her helps build the bridge. He's an architect and visits Samuel often.
Mrs. Chin is also a neighbor and has a large garden. She offers friendship to all her neighbors.
As neighbors, all parties get to know each other. The book covers all the different relationships that develop. The book covers the family issues between Mary and her family. The book covers political issues.
This wasn't my favorite book in the series. I really didn't love any of the characters. Mr. Murray was the best, imho. Mary, turned from an isolated girl to someone who manipulates, retaliates, meanly to her family. While I believe in her anger she made some choices that were not to my liking. She really needed to grow up and I feel like neither male in the book could give her that.
I really disliked Mrs. Chin. After reading the other books in the series, this recurring character was not used to my liking. She came across the page as a sharp, almost rude person when in the picture. Otherwise, she was hardly there. Her purpose is supposed to encourage and help foster relationships, while she did that for some supporting characters, I felt her effects on the main character was lame.
I enjoyed the time spent in Bath the most. I like how the author talked about the purpose of Bath and why it was popular in this time. The mentions of medical beliefs seems accurate.
Overall, this book wasn't my favorite. It was slow moving and not very interesting. I was able to get through it okay but there's not really anything here to remember. I apologize for my review being short and uninformative. There is more to the book but I just can't be bothered to write it all out.
Content: clean
I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
This book is the last book in the Power of the Matchmaker series. It can be read as part of the series or as a stand alone.
Mary Buchanan is a young woman who lives with her father and aunt. She is a secluded being and doesn't leave her London home much.
Samuel Brown is an out spoken political reformer who moves in next door. From first site, Mary is attracted and intrigued by Samuel. However, Samuel is blind to her intentions.
Samuel's friend, Neil Murray currently lives in London as her helps build the bridge. He's an architect and visits Samuel often.
Mrs. Chin is also a neighbor and has a large garden. She offers friendship to all her neighbors.
As neighbors, all parties get to know each other. The book covers all the different relationships that develop. The book covers the family issues between Mary and her family. The book covers political issues.
This wasn't my favorite book in the series. I really didn't love any of the characters. Mr. Murray was the best, imho. Mary, turned from an isolated girl to someone who manipulates, retaliates, meanly to her family. While I believe in her anger she made some choices that were not to my liking. She really needed to grow up and I feel like neither male in the book could give her that.
I really disliked Mrs. Chin. After reading the other books in the series, this recurring character was not used to my liking. She came across the page as a sharp, almost rude person when in the picture. Otherwise, she was hardly there. Her purpose is supposed to encourage and help foster relationships, while she did that for some supporting characters, I felt her effects on the main character was lame.
I enjoyed the time spent in Bath the most. I like how the author talked about the purpose of Bath and why it was popular in this time. The mentions of medical beliefs seems accurate.
Overall, this book wasn't my favorite. It was slow moving and not very interesting. I was able to get through it okay but there's not really anything here to remember. I apologize for my review being short and uninformative. There is more to the book but I just can't be bothered to write it all out.
Content: clean
I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
February 8, 2017
Author Jaima Fixsen has written a delightful and engaging story in The Reformer. I thoroughly enjoyed this story that takes place in England during the time of the reform. Filled with charming characters, including the spunky and opinionated Mary Buchanan, who becomes politically with the man next door. He writes political articles for the newspaper and she draws political cartoons to go along with his articles. Although this is a historical romance novel, there was not as much romance in the story as I expected there to be. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this story that brings Power of the Matchmaker Series to an end.
Genre: clean romance, historical
Publisher: Amazon Digital Services LLC
Publication date: December 1, 2016
Number of pages: 300
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 4 stars
Other Books in the Series:
1-Broken Things to Mend by Karey White
2-Not Always Happenstance by Rachael Anderson
3-If We Were a Movie by Kelly Oram
4-Love is Come by Heather B. Moore
5-Fourth Chambers by Julie Wright
6-O'er the River Liffy by Heidi Ashworth
7o-Chasing Fireflies by Taylor Dean
8-Between Heaven and Earth by Michele Paige Holmes
9-How I Met Your Brother by Janette Ralgison
10-To Move the World by Regina Siris
11-King of the Friend Zone by Sheralyn Pratt
A review copy of this novel was provided by Free eBooks for an Honest Review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: clean romance, historical
Publisher: Amazon Digital Services LLC
Publication date: December 1, 2016
Number of pages: 300
Content Rating: PG
Book Rating: 4 stars
Other Books in the Series:
1-Broken Things to Mend by Karey White
2-Not Always Happenstance by Rachael Anderson
3-If We Were a Movie by Kelly Oram
4-Love is Come by Heather B. Moore
5-Fourth Chambers by Julie Wright
6-O'er the River Liffy by Heidi Ashworth
7o-Chasing Fireflies by Taylor Dean
8-Between Heaven and Earth by Michele Paige Holmes
9-How I Met Your Brother by Janette Ralgison
10-To Move the World by Regina Siris
11-King of the Friend Zone by Sheralyn Pratt
A review copy of this novel was provided by Free eBooks for an Honest Review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
December 6, 2016
This is the final book in the matchmaker series, and I have enjoyed reading them all, all different and yet based on the same premise.
We are back in the 1830’s in merry old England, only its not merry at all, a lot chaos going on, and our girl Mary behind a pseudonym hides her art. A very controversial art, political cartoons, and we end up having a writer next door that writes for the paper. A match made in heaven?
What a great historical look at the political unrest at this period of time in England, and having an adamant father on one side and a man she admires on another. We also have Mrs. Chin, not Pearl as she was known in the other books, and she doesn’t seem to play as large a part.
Will Mary be able to achieve having the man of her dreams, or will fate play a trick on her? You are about to have a great journey here, and we are also going to Bath, to receive a healing?
I received this book through Inspired Kathy, and was not required to give a positive review.
We are back in the 1830’s in merry old England, only its not merry at all, a lot chaos going on, and our girl Mary behind a pseudonym hides her art. A very controversial art, political cartoons, and we end up having a writer next door that writes for the paper. A match made in heaven?
What a great historical look at the political unrest at this period of time in England, and having an adamant father on one side and a man she admires on another. We also have Mrs. Chin, not Pearl as she was known in the other books, and she doesn’t seem to play as large a part.
Will Mary be able to achieve having the man of her dreams, or will fate play a trick on her? You are about to have a great journey here, and we are also going to Bath, to receive a healing?
I received this book through Inspired Kathy, and was not required to give a positive review.
December 6, 2016
Mary loves to escape her complaining Aunt, her absent father, and her boring London life by walks outside. When she gets caught in a downpour and the house is locked up, Samuel, her controversial new neighbor, invites her into his home to get dried off and warm. This book in the Matchmaker series is WONDERFUL! The characters are likable and the historical aspects are fascinating.
January 4, 2017
The start of this book was very strong, and while I was eager to keep reading and finish the story, this one did not have the same charm on each page that I have come to expect with this author that keeps me delighted to the very end. Still a good book, but I prefer her other ones more. Was expecting to give it a five, wanted to, but can only give it a generous four.
February 4, 2017
The Reformer is much more than a simple, shallow romance. You either "get it" or you don't. In my mind, it approaches real literature with its layers within the story.
First, you have the real history that's going on in England. At the end, the author gives a recap of the actual events that she used in the storyline. As someone who appreciates history, I found this fascinating.
Second, you have the characters. Each character has a "story to tell." Each character grows and develops. For example, Mary begins the book as a sheltered, lonely 17 year old child. She acts it too. I have teenagers in my house and I recognized much of what Mary did as that of a flighty teenage girl that loves to fantasize and dream. However, the author demonstrated how Mary developed and matured, learning from her mistakes, forgiving and giving forgiveness, and so much more. By the end, she was a mature, self-assured woman who understood life and what it meant to love and be loved. Another character is Mary's father, Dr. Buchanan. To me, he's more of a tragic figure and when you learn his backstory, your heart reaches out to him. My feelings completely turned 180 degrees regarding him. All the other characters likewise develop and mature, except maybe Samuel. He proves in the end to be exactly how he is described much earlier in the book. Also, given the timeline of around 2 years, there's plenty of time allotted for character development.
Next, you have the growing love triangle with Mary, Samuel, and Neil. The reader is left in suspense as to who she would choose until the very end. Would she choose the right man?
There's also a sweet sub-story involving the servants. And, Miss Pearl makes her appearance throughout as Mrs. Chin, the kind neighbor who has a beautiful garden and so much helpful advice - even when delivered bluntly.
Next, I like to take note of what becomes symbolic throughout the story. In this case, it was the flowers.
And, finally, I never felt like the story lagged or was boring. I was either laughing at some sort of nonsense of Mary's when she was acting like a typical teenager, or I was anxious over events happening throughout the countryside during such turbulent times.
All in all, I felt like this was one of the best books in the Matchmaker series.
Romance - PG - some kisses
Language - PG
Violence - a tense scene where a character gets tangled up in riots in the city and hit by a rock. Blood in mentioned.
My rating - 5 stars
First, you have the real history that's going on in England. At the end, the author gives a recap of the actual events that she used in the storyline. As someone who appreciates history, I found this fascinating.
Second, you have the characters. Each character has a "story to tell." Each character grows and develops. For example, Mary begins the book as a sheltered, lonely 17 year old child. She acts it too. I have teenagers in my house and I recognized much of what Mary did as that of a flighty teenage girl that loves to fantasize and dream. However, the author demonstrated how Mary developed and matured, learning from her mistakes, forgiving and giving forgiveness, and so much more. By the end, she was a mature, self-assured woman who understood life and what it meant to love and be loved. Another character is Mary's father, Dr. Buchanan. To me, he's more of a tragic figure and when you learn his backstory, your heart reaches out to him. My feelings completely turned 180 degrees regarding him. All the other characters likewise develop and mature, except maybe Samuel. He proves in the end to be exactly how he is described much earlier in the book. Also, given the timeline of around 2 years, there's plenty of time allotted for character development.
Next, you have the growing love triangle with Mary, Samuel, and Neil. The reader is left in suspense as to who she would choose until the very end. Would she choose the right man?
There's also a sweet sub-story involving the servants. And, Miss Pearl makes her appearance throughout as Mrs. Chin, the kind neighbor who has a beautiful garden and so much helpful advice - even when delivered bluntly.
Next, I like to take note of what becomes symbolic throughout the story. In this case, it was the flowers.
And, finally, I never felt like the story lagged or was boring. I was either laughing at some sort of nonsense of Mary's when she was acting like a typical teenager, or I was anxious over events happening throughout the countryside during such turbulent times.
All in all, I felt like this was one of the best books in the Matchmaker series.
Romance - PG - some kisses
Language - PG
Violence - a tense scene where a character gets tangled up in riots in the city and hit by a rock. Blood in mentioned.
My rating - 5 stars
February 7, 2017
This is my second book in the Power of the Matchmaker series (I previously read To Move the World). It's quite surprising how the two books seem so similar in quality yet are written by two different authors.
The setting is 1830s in London as the government is on the brink of change with Samuel (a journalist reformer), his best friend Neil (an engineer and a helper to the reformist movement), and Mary (a young fearful woman trapped in her own home who is a talented sketcher) as the main characters.
It's a poignant story of a young woman's journey to discover who she is and what she is capable of. Mary comes off at first as an immature, naive (almost stupid to a certain extent), scared, conniving, and unreasonably stubborn seventeen year old girl. But as the years go by, we are swept away in her growth and feel proud of her by the end of the story.
It's also a very realistic love story that spans a few years. The beginning of the book is quite slow and almost cumbersome because the groundwork of the characters and the socially volatile atmosphere of the plot has to be laid out. The story does pick up towards the middle of the book and speeds along to the finish line pretty quickly.
It was nice to see that the Matchmaker has a bigger role in this book (Mrs. Chin) than she did in To Move the World as Miss Pearl.
At first I had a bit of difficulty adjusting to the writing style but became used to it. I had similar difficulty with To Move the World, so it may be that the writing style of the series isn't a style I am used to.
I loved both Samuel and Neil. They are so different but admirable in their ways. I didn't connect with Mary much unfortunately. Perhaps I am too old to understand the workings of a seventeen year old girl but I found myself more angry at her and frustrated with her than anything else for most of the book.
The book was enjoyable and I learned quite a bit about the workings of the British government in 1830s.
I received a digital review copy of this book from EBooksForReview. A favorable review was not required. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
The setting is 1830s in London as the government is on the brink of change with Samuel (a journalist reformer), his best friend Neil (an engineer and a helper to the reformist movement), and Mary (a young fearful woman trapped in her own home who is a talented sketcher) as the main characters.
It's a poignant story of a young woman's journey to discover who she is and what she is capable of. Mary comes off at first as an immature, naive (almost stupid to a certain extent), scared, conniving, and unreasonably stubborn seventeen year old girl. But as the years go by, we are swept away in her growth and feel proud of her by the end of the story.
It's also a very realistic love story that spans a few years. The beginning of the book is quite slow and almost cumbersome because the groundwork of the characters and the socially volatile atmosphere of the plot has to be laid out. The story does pick up towards the middle of the book and speeds along to the finish line pretty quickly.
It was nice to see that the Matchmaker has a bigger role in this book (Mrs. Chin) than she did in To Move the World as Miss Pearl.
At first I had a bit of difficulty adjusting to the writing style but became used to it. I had similar difficulty with To Move the World, so it may be that the writing style of the series isn't a style I am used to.
I loved both Samuel and Neil. They are so different but admirable in their ways. I didn't connect with Mary much unfortunately. Perhaps I am too old to understand the workings of a seventeen year old girl but I found myself more angry at her and frustrated with her than anything else for most of the book.
The book was enjoyable and I learned quite a bit about the workings of the British government in 1830s.
I received a digital review copy of this book from EBooksForReview. A favorable review was not required. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
February 3, 2017
“She was quite alone, a shadow who watched and sketched.” Miss Mary Buchanan has been sheltered and secluded from society. Raised by her Aunt Yates and her father, this “little brown house sparrow” is naïve and coddled. She simply desires to help and serve and be loved. “His grief was to her advantage. It gave her more time to grow up, educate herself, and study how to make herself useful to him.” Her courage and determination propel her to make life changing, completely unsuitable choices. I really liked her pluck and propensity for misfortune. My favorite scenes are when she finds her voice and the fortitude to choose for herself.
Exposure to Samuel Brown opens her eyes to a whole new world of politics and reform. Suddenly she longs to visit new places and see forbidden sights. Mrs. Chin provides a listening ear and words of wisdom to young Mary. I wish Mrs. Chin had been referred to as Ms. Pearl just once to provide consistency with the other Matchmaker books. Determined to protect both Samuel and Mary, Neil Murray interferes and pushes Mary away. Samuel is a very shallow character in this story. Neil’s character is more sympathetic as he plays an active role in the plot. Romance is woven into this coming of age story.
The discussions of lust and sex were a bit disarming for me. There are several surprising plot twists that add intrigue to this story. I also enjoyed reading about the historical and political unrest at that time in England. As the action picked up, I found myself more engaged in the second half of this book. Overall, an enjoyable ending to the Matchmaker series.
“…sometimes it only took a moment for the world to change.”
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are uniquely my own.
Exposure to Samuel Brown opens her eyes to a whole new world of politics and reform. Suddenly she longs to visit new places and see forbidden sights. Mrs. Chin provides a listening ear and words of wisdom to young Mary. I wish Mrs. Chin had been referred to as Ms. Pearl just once to provide consistency with the other Matchmaker books. Determined to protect both Samuel and Mary, Neil Murray interferes and pushes Mary away. Samuel is a very shallow character in this story. Neil’s character is more sympathetic as he plays an active role in the plot. Romance is woven into this coming of age story.
The discussions of lust and sex were a bit disarming for me. There are several surprising plot twists that add intrigue to this story. I also enjoyed reading about the historical and political unrest at that time in England. As the action picked up, I found myself more engaged in the second half of this book. Overall, an enjoyable ending to the Matchmaker series.
“…sometimes it only took a moment for the world to change.”
*I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided by the author. All thoughts and opinions are uniquely my own.
February 3, 2017
The Reformer by Jaima Fixsen is set in London, England in 1830, during the time that reforms were beginning to take place to protect poor laborers. Mary Buchanan is a 19 year old girl who has been brought up by her father and aunt and has been extremely sheltered throughout her life. When a newspaper journalist from the liberal London Times moves in next door, Mary begins to come out of her shell and begins defying her father by getting to know her neighbors, reading the Times and educating herself about the politics of the time, and starting to think for herself. Her infatuation with Samuel Brown leads her to begin drawing political cartoons to illustrate the articles he writes. After some of her cartoons are published anonymously in the paper, Samuel and his best friend Neil Murray convince her to begin accepting money for her cartoons and building up her money to get out of her father's house.
This book was enjoyable for me. The characters of Mary and Neil are very well developed, and Samuel's character is only a little less developed. The storyline was interesting, and watching Mary grow up and spread her wings was a treat. There were some surprises throughout the story that kept me turning pages. The author's research into the historical setting was very well done.
I didn't like that this was a somewhat typical Recency type romance. However, I would try reading more books from this author. If you like clean, well developed romances, you should like this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
This book was enjoyable for me. The characters of Mary and Neil are very well developed, and Samuel's character is only a little less developed. The storyline was interesting, and watching Mary grow up and spread her wings was a treat. There were some surprises throughout the story that kept me turning pages. The author's research into the historical setting was very well done.
I didn't like that this was a somewhat typical Recency type romance. However, I would try reading more books from this author. If you like clean, well developed romances, you should like this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC copy of this book.
December 29, 2016
Each book in the Power of the Matchmaker series is a stand-alone read. There is no order in which to read them but like your favourite snacking treat, while you reach for one to have just a taste, you'll find yourself going back for more and more until you've finished them all.
This is the first book I have read by Jaima Fixsen and I really enjoyed it from start to finish so I will certainly read more in the future. I was given this ebook in exchange for an honest review and here it is:
Mary has lived a very sheltered life and is learning who she is as this story unfolds she’s discovering her new handsome neighbour, expanding her very limited social, and practising her talents in private. Before long she stumbles across a career she’d never planned on, political interests that she’d never realized, and suspects her strict small family is keeping more than just affection from her. Mary aspires to carve out a nice little life for herself, hoping her humble cartooning career might support her and one day, perhaps, she might marry a man that feels good regard toward her. She’s decided she doesn’t necessarily require consent and approval in all things from the family that stifles her and she is going to begin to ask questions, seek answers, and do what she can in pursuit the future she aspires to.
This is the first book I have read by Jaima Fixsen and I really enjoyed it from start to finish so I will certainly read more in the future. I was given this ebook in exchange for an honest review and here it is:
Mary has lived a very sheltered life and is learning who she is as this story unfolds she’s discovering her new handsome neighbour, expanding her very limited social, and practising her talents in private. Before long she stumbles across a career she’d never planned on, political interests that she’d never realized, and suspects her strict small family is keeping more than just affection from her. Mary aspires to carve out a nice little life for herself, hoping her humble cartooning career might support her and one day, perhaps, she might marry a man that feels good regard toward her. She’s decided she doesn’t necessarily require consent and approval in all things from the family that stifles her and she is going to begin to ask questions, seek answers, and do what she can in pursuit the future she aspires to.
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