What do you think?
Rate this book
The Brontë Brothers #1
Jane Grey: A Homage to the Bronte Classics
Matthew Bronte, a true romantic at heart, believes the only happiness in life is to love and be loved. And yet, he fears he lacks the capacity to love...until he meets Jane Grey. Jane, a humble English governess, seems perfect for Matthew, apart from one significant snag: Jane can only marry a man of means and Matthew must give up his fortune if and when he marries. When faced with the choice between love and money, which will each of them choose?
234 pages, Paperback
Published May 21, 2017
12 people are currently reading
26 people want to read
About the author
Nina Mason
18 books322 followersNina Mason is an incurable romantic with strong affinities for history, mythology, and the metaphysical. She strives to write the same kind of books she loves to read: those that entertain, edify, educate, and enlighten. Her genres include erotic paranormal and historical romance. She also has written a political thriller.
Born and raised in Southern California, she now lives in Woodstock, Georgia, with her husband, youngest daughter, two cats, and a Westie named Robert.
Born and raised in Southern California, she now lives in Woodstock, Georgia, with her husband, youngest daughter, two cats, and a Westie named Robert.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 8, 2017
Jane Grey: A Homage to the Brontë Classics (The Brontë Brothers Book 1) by Nina Mason, set in the Loire Valley, France and England in 1850.
In "Jane Grey" the reader will
be shocked and thrilled by the similarities between the story of "Jane Eyre" to Matthew Brontë and Jane Grey. Matthew is the cousin of the author of "Jane Eyre" books.
A story of a frustrated painter, and a "kept" man and a beleaguered English governess who comes to France as a teacher, to a young heiress, thus meets Matthew, in much the same manner as Jane Eyre met her Mr. Rochester, except Jane ran away from and her feelings for Matthew until she just couldn't possibly run anymore.
Readers will also find a slight departure from Nina Mason's other stories. Masterfully written, I felt, anyway.
This is a story of disappointment, fortitude, unwavering love, hardship, the difficulties of a painter, in the 1850's, and the romance of the century.
Can wealth come before love? If you had a choice between weath or love, which would you choose love or the money? A delimma for most, especially when you meet the love of your life.
"The only happiness in life is to love and be loved.", my favorite passage.
"Jane Grey" has many avenues for which to take the reader on, here's just a few, forfeiting a fortune but never marry, never marry unless the spouse can provide for the other's dependent family, or throw all away for marriage, love and finding a HEA.
I found "Jane Grey" to be endearing and romantic with a bit of a sad side. I enjoyed watching Matthew and Jane find their joy and contentment. Don't be mistaken, in "Jane Grey", while the story has similarities, this story takes a few twists, turns, with a few surprises along the way, lingering doubts and and a round about detour to happiness.
Ms. Mason is a talented author and once again, her talent shines through with the telling of "Jane Grey". She never disappoints her readers in her plots, her characterizations, or her details. I'm truly excited for this new adventure. I hope readers will enjoy reading "Jane Grey", it truly makes you wish to read "Jane Eyre" after all these years. Yes, I haven't read it since high school! This story is definitely a departure from her other stories. The passion is not explicit nor over done, if that makes sense. I throughly enjoyed "Jane Grey" and I think you will as well.
Fans of the "Brontë Classics" will surely enjoy "Jane Grey", with unusual circumstances, contentment and finally finding true love, what's not to enjoy. This is an incredible story by Nina Mason! I can't wait to read the next installment in what promises to be an amazing series.
Bravo, Ms.Mason!! Well done, indeed!
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
In "Jane Grey" the reader will
be shocked and thrilled by the similarities between the story of "Jane Eyre" to Matthew Brontë and Jane Grey. Matthew is the cousin of the author of "Jane Eyre" books.
A story of a frustrated painter, and a "kept" man and a beleaguered English governess who comes to France as a teacher, to a young heiress, thus meets Matthew, in much the same manner as Jane Eyre met her Mr. Rochester, except Jane ran away from and her feelings for Matthew until she just couldn't possibly run anymore.
Readers will also find a slight departure from Nina Mason's other stories. Masterfully written, I felt, anyway.
This is a story of disappointment, fortitude, unwavering love, hardship, the difficulties of a painter, in the 1850's, and the romance of the century.
Can wealth come before love? If you had a choice between weath or love, which would you choose love or the money? A delimma for most, especially when you meet the love of your life.
"The only happiness in life is to love and be loved.", my favorite passage.
"Jane Grey" has many avenues for which to take the reader on, here's just a few, forfeiting a fortune but never marry, never marry unless the spouse can provide for the other's dependent family, or throw all away for marriage, love and finding a HEA.
I found "Jane Grey" to be endearing and romantic with a bit of a sad side. I enjoyed watching Matthew and Jane find their joy and contentment. Don't be mistaken, in "Jane Grey", while the story has similarities, this story takes a few twists, turns, with a few surprises along the way, lingering doubts and and a round about detour to happiness.
Ms. Mason is a talented author and once again, her talent shines through with the telling of "Jane Grey". She never disappoints her readers in her plots, her characterizations, or her details. I'm truly excited for this new adventure. I hope readers will enjoy reading "Jane Grey", it truly makes you wish to read "Jane Eyre" after all these years. Yes, I haven't read it since high school! This story is definitely a departure from her other stories. The passion is not explicit nor over done, if that makes sense. I throughly enjoyed "Jane Grey" and I think you will as well.
Fans of the "Brontë Classics" will surely enjoy "Jane Grey", with unusual circumstances, contentment and finally finding true love, what's not to enjoy. This is an incredible story by Nina Mason! I can't wait to read the next installment in what promises to be an amazing series.
Bravo, Ms.Mason!! Well done, indeed!
Rating: 5
Heat rating: Mild
Reviewed by: AprilR
May 21, 2017
The audience first meets Matthew Bronte, a downtrodden artist on the brink of ruin. He traveled to Tours, France to study art. While there, Matthew meets a wealthy patroness, Mathilde who houses him in return of being his mistress. Over time, the relationship grows sour, as Mathilde has grown fond of Matthew, unfortunately, our hero does not reciprocate her feelings. Left with little choice, Matthew decides to stay on figuring he has no other options. He contemplates to return home to England a failure, or remain at Couer Bris penniless. That is until, as a final act of kindness Mathilde bestows her fortune and estate onto Matthew. In return, the now wealthy Earl cannot marry, or risk forfeiting the fortune to her nephew Phillipe. Over the years, Matthew’s heart hardens even more, ever wondering if he was ever capable of love, to begin with.
Enter Jane Grey, a Governess with limited prospects. When she accepts a position in Tour’s, France for a wild-child Cecile Brousseau. She arrives at the carriage house awaiting for transportation to the Brousseau household when she espies a portrait of Local artist Matthew Bronte’ and is immediately captivated by his “unruly dark hair,” and “Gypsy eye’s.” When Jane arrives at the Brousseau household, she has gained more than she has bargained for, for she soon learns Cecile has wild ambitions, with little concern for propriety. It is up to Jane to correct these egregious habits if Lady Cecile were to marry a suitable man. Challenges emerge day in and day out for Jane as she tries to curb Cecile’s wild ideas.
Over the course of time, Matthew & Jane grow a fondness for one another. Matthew eventually confesses to Jane that he has thawed his a heart a bit; even finds an air about her that is different that he has never met in another woman. In an attempt to grow closer to Jane—Matthew offers art lessons, to her and Cecile both. All the while, Jane is unaware of the previous stipulations attached to Matthew’s contract bestowed upon him. Secret, Scandal, and tensions rise as the reader journeys further into the story.
The story of Jane Grey is unlike Nina Mason has written, or I have read yet. Nina usually stuns her audience with erotic displays of intercourse in her other stories, such as: “The Devil in Dukes Clothing” series for example. However, in the story of Jane Grey, the author writes similar to the Victorian script. Very much like, “Wuthering Heights,” or even “Jane Eyre,” if you will. The story stays well within the bounds of propriety-- until passions ignite and hits of naughty-ness appear, As per Nina’s charms. The author weaves her own tale of a heroine with many likenesses, to the original characters of Jane Eyre, all the while preserving the original integrity of her own story.
While reading this story, I’ve noticed that it has similarities to the book Jane Eyre. One such similarity is when the hero & heroine meet for the first time. In the original story Emily Bronte writes, Mr. Rochester meets Jane while riding his horse, although Mr. Rochester sprains his ankle when he falls from his horse when it slips on ice. In this case, Matthew Bronte’ falls from his horse when it becomes spooked, then falls, thus injuring himself and Jane comes to his rescue. Not to mention, in the story Matthew mentions his cousin Emily Bronte’ wrote the story, under the pen name Currer Bell. As an artist, I enjoyed the fact that Nina touched upon all the elements of art. Such as Architecture, painting, drawing, even gardening. Nina also mentions the story takes place during an artistic period called The Romanticism. Given the poetry that is included in the story. I defiantly recommend this story to anyone who has a fondness for Jane Eyre, or any Victorian Literature.
Enter Jane Grey, a Governess with limited prospects. When she accepts a position in Tour’s, France for a wild-child Cecile Brousseau. She arrives at the carriage house awaiting for transportation to the Brousseau household when she espies a portrait of Local artist Matthew Bronte’ and is immediately captivated by his “unruly dark hair,” and “Gypsy eye’s.” When Jane arrives at the Brousseau household, she has gained more than she has bargained for, for she soon learns Cecile has wild ambitions, with little concern for propriety. It is up to Jane to correct these egregious habits if Lady Cecile were to marry a suitable man. Challenges emerge day in and day out for Jane as she tries to curb Cecile’s wild ideas.
Over the course of time, Matthew & Jane grow a fondness for one another. Matthew eventually confesses to Jane that he has thawed his a heart a bit; even finds an air about her that is different that he has never met in another woman. In an attempt to grow closer to Jane—Matthew offers art lessons, to her and Cecile both. All the while, Jane is unaware of the previous stipulations attached to Matthew’s contract bestowed upon him. Secret, Scandal, and tensions rise as the reader journeys further into the story.
The story of Jane Grey is unlike Nina Mason has written, or I have read yet. Nina usually stuns her audience with erotic displays of intercourse in her other stories, such as: “The Devil in Dukes Clothing” series for example. However, in the story of Jane Grey, the author writes similar to the Victorian script. Very much like, “Wuthering Heights,” or even “Jane Eyre,” if you will. The story stays well within the bounds of propriety-- until passions ignite and hits of naughty-ness appear, As per Nina’s charms. The author weaves her own tale of a heroine with many likenesses, to the original characters of Jane Eyre, all the while preserving the original integrity of her own story.
While reading this story, I’ve noticed that it has similarities to the book Jane Eyre. One such similarity is when the hero & heroine meet for the first time. In the original story Emily Bronte writes, Mr. Rochester meets Jane while riding his horse, although Mr. Rochester sprains his ankle when he falls from his horse when it slips on ice. In this case, Matthew Bronte’ falls from his horse when it becomes spooked, then falls, thus injuring himself and Jane comes to his rescue. Not to mention, in the story Matthew mentions his cousin Emily Bronte’ wrote the story, under the pen name Currer Bell. As an artist, I enjoyed the fact that Nina touched upon all the elements of art. Such as Architecture, painting, drawing, even gardening. Nina also mentions the story takes place during an artistic period called The Romanticism. Given the poetry that is included in the story. I defiantly recommend this story to anyone who has a fondness for Jane Eyre, or any Victorian Literature.
January 17, 2018
What an ingenious story to incorporate the Brontes of historical legend into a new historical romance. With some of the angst of pursing his painting career and living off of his mistress, Raphael Bronte is the classic artistic. His mistress has passed away and left him a fortune but with caveats. He must never marry or will forfeit the money. He presents himself as a widower and a Count and none are the wiser. Prudence MIddleton has been forced to become a governess to support her mother and sister back home due to her father's desertion. Working to help a young woman make her debut, she is living in the a home close to Raphael. Upon meeting, Prudence is enchanted with Raphe and the romance beings. This story has a little of it all. Wonderful descriptions of the characters and the settings makes you feel a part of the story. The characters are intriguing and with secrets that are bound to come out, the story progresses quickly. Do not miss this classic story that will stay with you long after the last page is turned. I look forward to the next book in this series and know it will be a must read!!
September 25, 2017
“He’s not what he pretends to be.”
Very well written, descriptive, and a clearly researched historical romance. I was thoroughly engrossed in Jane Grey. While I greatly enjoyed the two lead characters, Matthew and Jane, I also took delight in Cecile. She gave the story a little bit of extra sass as she did whatever she desired despite how it affected others. Usually those type of characters annoy me but she was just so entertaining to read. Emotions come off the page as Matthew and Jane’s relationship takes form amidst the dilemma of love or money; the challenges and sacrifices for love. A novel that will take you back in time and put romance back in your reading.
(I was gifted an ebook copy via a Facebook event)
Very well written, descriptive, and a clearly researched historical romance. I was thoroughly engrossed in Jane Grey. While I greatly enjoyed the two lead characters, Matthew and Jane, I also took delight in Cecile. She gave the story a little bit of extra sass as she did whatever she desired despite how it affected others. Usually those type of characters annoy me but she was just so entertaining to read. Emotions come off the page as Matthew and Jane’s relationship takes form amidst the dilemma of love or money; the challenges and sacrifices for love. A novel that will take you back in time and put romance back in your reading.
(I was gifted an ebook copy via a Facebook event)
May 13, 2017
Nina Mason does it again. Jane Grey is a must read, cannot put down, absolutely wonderful period romance. Amazingly well written, Nina captures time. Her descriptions of characters and landscapes are breathtaking and immediately transports you right to where she is writing. Jane and Matthew are intriguing characters, who both believe to be unworthy of love. Jane is a governess who must provide for her mother and sister, and Matthew caught in a precarious situation, would have to give up wealth to find love. They both have a love for the classic novels as does Nina herself. She writes from the heart and pours it all into this classic novel.
May 16, 2017
Nina Mason has reinvented the Classic! This was a delightful, soulful and charming tale of the oft times challenges of and sacrifices for love. The characters had such depth, vibrancy and heart. The feel of the era came across very tangibly. The air of Romanticism permeated the pages. The stunning descriptions of the scenery easily swept me away to another time and place. Jane and Matthew are a couple to be remembered! I look forward to more in this series.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
June 11, 2017
A fantastic book with wonderful characters. A beautiful take on an old classic.
I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book.
I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book.
January 30, 2018
The very first chapter made me cry! I loved this book from the very first page. A very poignant story very well written with interesting characters and a wonderful storyline. I love the incorporation of the Bronte's and the way the books are referenced in the story. Prudence is a a complex character as is Raphael “Raphe” Bronte. Their back stories are complex and so sad. This book is a real page turner and will keep you guessing. I had many places in this book that made feel their emotions and have tears in my eyes. Many places I laughed out loud too. Thank you Nina Mason for a wonderful book, I cannot wait to read more of your stories!
October 17, 2019
This book originally had the title of "Jane Grey". I started reading "Jane Grey" this morning (which I purchased a few months ago and hadn't yet read), found out that "The Governess Next Door" was an updated, renamed and revised edition, newly released to supersede it, so I put the previous version down, checked the free Amazon preview, then finding slight differences (eg-the H/h's names) purchased the new one. I am certainly pleased I made that choice. The original was good, but this revised edition is way better! (4.5 stars)
The writing is excellent, flows well and the story is fresh and interesting. It's a 'homage' to the book Jane Eyre and there are lots of references to the 19th century book, but Ms Mason's story is completely different. The English hero (Raphe) is a painter and lives in France and just happens to be Charlotte Bronte's cousin. Being poor, he was a 'kept' man, but the wealthy Countess he lived with has just died and left him everything, providing he never marries, so he continues the ruse that he is a widower and a Count. The heroine (Prudence) is the English Governess at the Chateau next door and she is reading the novel Jane Eyre. There are several references to writers of the time and the Bronte sisters. The story is set around 1850.
I won't give away any more spoilers. I will say that I really feel like I'm in Victorian times when I read this and the author certainly knows how to tell a story. I recommend this author and any of her books. I have read several already that I enjoyed (Sins Against the Sea & The Royal Pains series)
The writing is excellent, flows well and the story is fresh and interesting. It's a 'homage' to the book Jane Eyre and there are lots of references to the 19th century book, but Ms Mason's story is completely different. The English hero (Raphe) is a painter and lives in France and just happens to be Charlotte Bronte's cousin. Being poor, he was a 'kept' man, but the wealthy Countess he lived with has just died and left him everything, providing he never marries, so he continues the ruse that he is a widower and a Count. The heroine (Prudence) is the English Governess at the Chateau next door and she is reading the novel Jane Eyre. There are several references to writers of the time and the Bronte sisters. The story is set around 1850.
I won't give away any more spoilers. I will say that I really feel like I'm in Victorian times when I read this and the author certainly knows how to tell a story. I recommend this author and any of her books. I have read several already that I enjoyed (Sins Against the Sea & The Royal Pains series)
January 18, 2018
The Governess Next Door by Nina Mason has an amazing storyline but I feel the writing could have been a little more simple for today’s reading. The descriptions are very clear and the characters are good. It is written in the time of Jane Austen and Charlotte Bronte which I have read both. This book has a ghost, duty, trust, cruelty, beauty, artistry, gardens, poems, an assassination attempt, a ball, a spoiled aristocratic young lady, trust issues, a revengeful so call relative, family troubles and of course love. So if you enjoy reading in time period of the 1800s this is the book for you. Travel back in time to 1850 France with Raphael Bronte and Prudence Middleton and a true feel of what is was like back in the day.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
May 18, 2017
An expertly crafted Victorian Romance
I am familiar with reading Nina Mason’s erotic historical and paranormal romances such as her Royal Pains and Knights of the Tarot series of which I am a big fan. Jane Grey, a standalone historical romance is a departure from the erotic genre as the heat level of this work is classed as moderate and the romance between the main couple is a sweet one. Nevertheless the author’s storytelling ability and character development are once again flawless.
The tale expertly evokes the Victorian novels of the time, in particularly those penned by the Brontë’s, namely Charlotte’s Jane Eyre and Anne’s Agnes Grey, to which the work, although an original, pays homage: Matthew, the hero, is a cousin of the Brontës and the book references Jane Eyre in particular. The use of language in the book and the descriptions of the Loire Valley where the novel is set transported me to the time period perfectly. Jane Grey reflects the social mores and the moral dilemmas often found within the literature of this period – Jane, an impoverished governess can only marry a man of sufficient means to support her dependant mother and siblings and Matthew will lose his fortune should he marry. Can love triumph over this seemingly impossible situation? I was invested in the characters from the off and intrigued to find out where the narrative would go.
Matthew and Jane are perfect for each other, sharing many interests, such as art and literature, interests which Matthew, up until now a man who although having no difficulty in attracting the opposite sex, has never found in another woman. Indeed, before finding Jane, the romance his soul craves has eluded this handsome and passionate artist and his muse has mourned its lack. The quiet and studious Jane soon finds herself falling in love with a man of Matthew’s intelligence and depths, even as she doubts that her feelings will be reciprocated due to what she perceives as her own failings. However, their relationship is blighted at every turn by the selfish antics of Cécile, the jealous and capricious heiress who Jane is tutoring and the wastrel cousin of Matthew’s benefactor who will go to desperate lengths to wrestle Matthews fortune from him. The passion and longing between Matthew and Jane is evident in their every word and glance and I was willing them to break free of their self inflicted and societal bonds as I was anxious for their HEA.
If you enjoy reading historical novels set in Victorian times, which explore the relationships between men and women and the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ within society, coupled with a sweet yet passionate romance, then this book is definitely for you. Highly recommended.
Please note that an ARC of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
I am familiar with reading Nina Mason’s erotic historical and paranormal romances such as her Royal Pains and Knights of the Tarot series of which I am a big fan. Jane Grey, a standalone historical romance is a departure from the erotic genre as the heat level of this work is classed as moderate and the romance between the main couple is a sweet one. Nevertheless the author’s storytelling ability and character development are once again flawless.
The tale expertly evokes the Victorian novels of the time, in particularly those penned by the Brontë’s, namely Charlotte’s Jane Eyre and Anne’s Agnes Grey, to which the work, although an original, pays homage: Matthew, the hero, is a cousin of the Brontës and the book references Jane Eyre in particular. The use of language in the book and the descriptions of the Loire Valley where the novel is set transported me to the time period perfectly. Jane Grey reflects the social mores and the moral dilemmas often found within the literature of this period – Jane, an impoverished governess can only marry a man of sufficient means to support her dependant mother and siblings and Matthew will lose his fortune should he marry. Can love triumph over this seemingly impossible situation? I was invested in the characters from the off and intrigued to find out where the narrative would go.
Matthew and Jane are perfect for each other, sharing many interests, such as art and literature, interests which Matthew, up until now a man who although having no difficulty in attracting the opposite sex, has never found in another woman. Indeed, before finding Jane, the romance his soul craves has eluded this handsome and passionate artist and his muse has mourned its lack. The quiet and studious Jane soon finds herself falling in love with a man of Matthew’s intelligence and depths, even as she doubts that her feelings will be reciprocated due to what she perceives as her own failings. However, their relationship is blighted at every turn by the selfish antics of Cécile, the jealous and capricious heiress who Jane is tutoring and the wastrel cousin of Matthew’s benefactor who will go to desperate lengths to wrestle Matthews fortune from him. The passion and longing between Matthew and Jane is evident in their every word and glance and I was willing them to break free of their self inflicted and societal bonds as I was anxious for their HEA.
If you enjoy reading historical novels set in Victorian times, which explore the relationships between men and women and the ‘haves’ and the ‘have nots’ within society, coupled with a sweet yet passionate romance, then this book is definitely for you. Highly recommended.
Please note that an ARC of this book was given to me by the author for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
December 20, 2017
Raphael “Raphe” Bronte definitely had some sort of power over women. He realized this when he was just sixteen and he was tempted by his cousin Charlotte. As Raphael grew older the power never left him and it was something he could never escape. Even his mistress Fabienne on her deathbed chained Raphael to her by her will making it so that he could never marry another. While at Fabienne’s funeral Raphe happens to meet the beauteous Lady Angelique. Raphe holds no interest in her but when Raphe is introduced to Prudence Middleton Angelique’s governess he is entranced by her wit, humor and intelligence. Is it possible Prudence holds the key to breaking Raphe’s resolve to never marry and the strange clause in Fabienne’s will? Will Raphe be able to give everything up for his love for Prudence and what happens when she learns the truth that Raphe isn’t a rich lord but a poor artist?
The few books I have read of Ms. Nina Mason I have really enjoyed the way she can weave such a wonderful story is amazing! This book is no exception even though the theme of handsome lord who isn’t really a lord woos a poor plain working girl are used fairly extensively sure it plays homage to a fairy tale and just like any modern girl I enjoy a good fairy tale. What I like to see is the way Ms. Mason makes the story and fairy tale her own individual story. In the story there is also beautiful poetry and a familiar classic mentioned because of the hero’s relation to the author and his life having some similarities to it which many readers might balk at but I admired the irony of it more. Still there is mystery, suspense, lovable and of course dislikeable three dimensional characters, a well told story pulled together with a beautiful cover too.
Raphe plays the tortured handsome hero so well that you can’t help but fall for him. I can see his power even though he is just a book hero not only is his looks a godsend but they are also a curse. In some respects you pity him feel sympathy yet hope that everything works out for him. Prudence is a wonderful heroine poor, plain, sensible, okay looking but intelligent, witty and very funny. You can’t help but admire her strength to face whatever gets in her way and the cruelness of others. I couldn’t help but cheer for her even when everyone forsakes her even Raphael. Prudence has the ability to persevere through the world and you smile when she gets her happily ever after. I almost wish that Ms. Mason didn’t give Angelique a happily ever after and sure I wondered about Lucien whereabouts but this a good story well worth reading.
The few books I have read of Ms. Nina Mason I have really enjoyed the way she can weave such a wonderful story is amazing! This book is no exception even though the theme of handsome lord who isn’t really a lord woos a poor plain working girl are used fairly extensively sure it plays homage to a fairy tale and just like any modern girl I enjoy a good fairy tale. What I like to see is the way Ms. Mason makes the story and fairy tale her own individual story. In the story there is also beautiful poetry and a familiar classic mentioned because of the hero’s relation to the author and his life having some similarities to it which many readers might balk at but I admired the irony of it more. Still there is mystery, suspense, lovable and of course dislikeable three dimensional characters, a well told story pulled together with a beautiful cover too.
Raphe plays the tortured handsome hero so well that you can’t help but fall for him. I can see his power even though he is just a book hero not only is his looks a godsend but they are also a curse. In some respects you pity him feel sympathy yet hope that everything works out for him. Prudence is a wonderful heroine poor, plain, sensible, okay looking but intelligent, witty and very funny. You can’t help but admire her strength to face whatever gets in her way and the cruelness of others. I couldn’t help but cheer for her even when everyone forsakes her even Raphael. Prudence has the ability to persevere through the world and you smile when she gets her happily ever after. I almost wish that Ms. Mason didn’t give Angelique a happily ever after and sure I wondered about Lucien whereabouts but this a good story well worth reading.
January 28, 2018
Like all Nina Mason's historical romances, The Governess Next Door transports you back in time--in this case, to a day and age when romance was celebrated in art, poetry, and literature. The book is meant to be a tribute to the Bronte sisters and, while they and their books are referenced within its pages, the story and characters are uniquely Nina's.
The heroine, Prudence Middleton, moves to France to be a governess to a conceited and headstrong young woman who has no regard for the feelings of others. Because of her station and financial situation (she has to support herself as well as her mother and sister back in England), Prudence must endure Lady Angelique's rudeness, however much it offends her. The only way she can escape her degrading situation is to marry for money. But she also wants to marry for love, and has a long list of noble qualities a gentleman must possess to win her heart.
Enter Raphe Bronte, a fictitious cousin to the literary sisters, who by all appearances is perfect for her. Not only is he handsome, wealthy, and intelligent, he is a talented painter who offers to give her the drawing lessons she's always wanted but couldn't afford. Lord Bronte is a dream-come-true for Prudence, until she learns his secret: if he marries her, he must give up his fortune. How does it all work out? You'll have to read it for yourself to find out--and, if you're anything like me, you'll be on the edge of your seat, hanging on every word until you finish the book.
I recommend this book to all readers, especially those who love well-written, well-researched historical romance that accurately reflects the period in which it takes place. In this case, it is 1850, the height of the Age of Romanticism, which Nina Mason brings to life beautifully in the pages of The Governess Next Door.
The Governess Next Door earns five mousey paws from this reviewer. Run and get your copy today.
Nina, you are very talented and I need more of this series! Thank you for writing and please keep it up.
The heroine, Prudence Middleton, moves to France to be a governess to a conceited and headstrong young woman who has no regard for the feelings of others. Because of her station and financial situation (she has to support herself as well as her mother and sister back in England), Prudence must endure Lady Angelique's rudeness, however much it offends her. The only way she can escape her degrading situation is to marry for money. But she also wants to marry for love, and has a long list of noble qualities a gentleman must possess to win her heart.
Enter Raphe Bronte, a fictitious cousin to the literary sisters, who by all appearances is perfect for her. Not only is he handsome, wealthy, and intelligent, he is a talented painter who offers to give her the drawing lessons she's always wanted but couldn't afford. Lord Bronte is a dream-come-true for Prudence, until she learns his secret: if he marries her, he must give up his fortune. How does it all work out? You'll have to read it for yourself to find out--and, if you're anything like me, you'll be on the edge of your seat, hanging on every word until you finish the book.
I recommend this book to all readers, especially those who love well-written, well-researched historical romance that accurately reflects the period in which it takes place. In this case, it is 1850, the height of the Age of Romanticism, which Nina Mason brings to life beautifully in the pages of The Governess Next Door.
The Governess Next Door earns five mousey paws from this reviewer. Run and get your copy today.
Nina, you are very talented and I need more of this series! Thank you for writing and please keep it up.
May 17, 2017
*I received a review copy in exchange for an honest review but I also purchased the book.
Jane Grey by Nina Mason is a sweet and sexy historical romance. Jane Grey is rich in historical detail and the story is engrossing. The romance is mostly sweet and polite, but Mason captures perfectly the feelings of fear and desire that accompany falling in love. Despite the Victorian Age setting, the story has a couple of steamy love scenes that I thought added just the right touch of heat. Although the setting is wonderful, it’s the characters that make this story one I couldn’t put down. Matthew Bronte (cousin to the Bronte sisters) is a devilishly handsome count who will lose all his wealth if he marries. Jane is a plain governess who is doomed to spinsterhood in order to keep her family afloat. But while Jane’s looks may be plain compared to some of the rich ladies, her emotional depth and intelligence makes her stand out. Matthew, like many of Mason’s other male characters, prefers a woman who has intelligence. One of the things I loved about Matthew was how he went out of his way to make sure that Jane would communicate her needs to him because he could see that she constantly put others’ needs ahead of her own. Jane is a proper woman, but even though she follows the rules of society, she is also open to listening to her own heart. I found Jane easy to like because she struggles with the need to help her family versus doing what will make her happy. I especially enjoyed the excerpts from novels such as Jane Eyre and the bits of poetry that Mason included. Jane Grey is a novel that will take you back in time and make you fall in love.
Jane Grey by Nina Mason is a sweet and sexy historical romance. Jane Grey is rich in historical detail and the story is engrossing. The romance is mostly sweet and polite, but Mason captures perfectly the feelings of fear and desire that accompany falling in love. Despite the Victorian Age setting, the story has a couple of steamy love scenes that I thought added just the right touch of heat. Although the setting is wonderful, it’s the characters that make this story one I couldn’t put down. Matthew Bronte (cousin to the Bronte sisters) is a devilishly handsome count who will lose all his wealth if he marries. Jane is a plain governess who is doomed to spinsterhood in order to keep her family afloat. But while Jane’s looks may be plain compared to some of the rich ladies, her emotional depth and intelligence makes her stand out. Matthew, like many of Mason’s other male characters, prefers a woman who has intelligence. One of the things I loved about Matthew was how he went out of his way to make sure that Jane would communicate her needs to him because he could see that she constantly put others’ needs ahead of her own. Jane is a proper woman, but even though she follows the rules of society, she is also open to listening to her own heart. I found Jane easy to like because she struggles with the need to help her family versus doing what will make her happy. I especially enjoyed the excerpts from novels such as Jane Eyre and the bits of poetry that Mason included. Jane Grey is a novel that will take you back in time and make you fall in love.
January 20, 2018
THE GOVERNESS NEXT DOOR is the first book in the Brontë Brothers series. It is not yet known if they will be a dependent or independent series.
As always with a Nina Mason book, it’s like a bit of time travel. This time, I got to visit France in the 1850s and meet a cousin to the famous author Charlotte Brontë. During a time of great artists, he is a painter and has been a kept man. Now a widower with an odd stipulation attached to his good fortune.
I love that they both must decide between their love and the money left to him. Which will be the noble and moral choice? My heart raced and pitter-patted through most of this story waiting to see what they would do. Could everyone be happy in the end?
I’m looking forward to the next brother in this series. Who will it be? Raphael said he had three younger brothers – all named for the archangels.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: THE GOVERNESS NEXT DOOR
Series: Brontë Brothers #1
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: ungraded – book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Nina Mason (as an ARC gifted copy)
As always with a Nina Mason book, it’s like a bit of time travel. This time, I got to visit France in the 1850s and meet a cousin to the famous author Charlotte Brontë. During a time of great artists, he is a painter and has been a kept man. Now a widower with an odd stipulation attached to his good fortune.
I love that they both must decide between their love and the money left to him. Which will be the noble and moral choice? My heart raced and pitter-patted through most of this story waiting to see what they would do. Could everyone be happy in the end?
I’m looking forward to the next brother in this series. Who will it be? Raphael said he had three younger brothers – all named for the archangels.
Note: while I was given this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.
Title: THE GOVERNESS NEXT DOOR
Series: Brontë Brothers #1
Category /Genre: Historical Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: ungraded – book received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Nina Mason (as an ARC gifted copy)
January 15, 2018
I actually liked this story!! Sad, deceit, lies but the story held my interest so much so I read it all today because I wanted to see the end! I really despise haughty women and so of course I really despised Angelique and wanted to thrash her. But i loved how it all turned out. She became a much nicer person due to Prudence's guidance she tried giving her. And oh what a lovely romantic ending with Prudence finding her true love with Raphel. Truly a good read!!
March 8, 2018
3.5/5.0
An historical romance set in the time of the Brontë sisters and their famous stories, “The Governess Next Door” is a play on those classics with more steam and lust wrapped up in poetic and artistic trimmings than a regency ball.
Read full review in the 2018 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
An historical romance set in the time of the Brontë sisters and their famous stories, “The Governess Next Door” is a play on those classics with more steam and lust wrapped up in poetic and artistic trimmings than a regency ball.
Read full review in the 2018 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
May 16, 2017
** 3.5 stars rounded up to 4**
I’ll start by saying that Jane Eyre happens to be my least favorite classic historical romance. So when offered the chance to read this story I was truly intrigued and couldn’t pass the opportunity to read it.
Well, Jane Grey was a great romance story indeed! I don’t want anyone to think it wasn’t based on my rating. I did enjoy it from start to finish, true, however I also did have a few issues with the story itself. At any rate, I still recommend it to any fan of the original and to those looking for a worthwhile happy ending.
Matthew and Jane have a lot in common and that’s obviously what drew them together. They were both hopeless romantics to the point they could both recite poems by heart and Matthew was a painter hoping to revive his then-dormant muse.
At the start of the story, Matthew was hurt and vulnerable, thus he gave me the impression of just having fallen in love with the idea of the perfect woman that could possibly be Jane as opposed to the woman herself. As the story progressed and they got to know each other better, his attitude left no doubt in my mind that he had in fact fallen for Jane as a woman so I was happy on that end.
Their relationship was endearing and heart-warming. The story was heart-wrenching at times and hopeful at others. The descriptive settings made me feel I was part of the story itself and the writing was as beautiful as ever when it comes to this author.
As for Jane, she was sweet and considerate, but to an almost maddening point in my opinion. Most of the time she showed strength of character and common sense but when it came to trusting unworthy people or when it came to continue on the path she had already set her mind to follow she was inconstant and mutable. That whiplash attitude was one of the reasons I couldn’t enjoy the story more.
Also, the story is set in a place where propriety is not as strict as it would have been in England at the time but I still thought Jane didn’t come up to scratch as a governess to some extent. I’m not going to give specific examples because I don’t want to give spoilers but suffice to say her pupil would act incredibly unlady-like and Ms. Gray would just stand there and do nothing. I know, I’ve been told I need to let go of certain things when it comes to historicals but I just can’t!
As I said earlier dear reader, it IS a lovely story, full of passion, regrets, ambition, and true love. If this sounds like your cup of tea then I’m sure you are going to love it.
*** I received this book from the author at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***
I’ll start by saying that Jane Eyre happens to be my least favorite classic historical romance. So when offered the chance to read this story I was truly intrigued and couldn’t pass the opportunity to read it.
Well, Jane Grey was a great romance story indeed! I don’t want anyone to think it wasn’t based on my rating. I did enjoy it from start to finish, true, however I also did have a few issues with the story itself. At any rate, I still recommend it to any fan of the original and to those looking for a worthwhile happy ending.
Matthew and Jane have a lot in common and that’s obviously what drew them together. They were both hopeless romantics to the point they could both recite poems by heart and Matthew was a painter hoping to revive his then-dormant muse.
At the start of the story, Matthew was hurt and vulnerable, thus he gave me the impression of just having fallen in love with the idea of the perfect woman that could possibly be Jane as opposed to the woman herself. As the story progressed and they got to know each other better, his attitude left no doubt in my mind that he had in fact fallen for Jane as a woman so I was happy on that end.
Their relationship was endearing and heart-warming. The story was heart-wrenching at times and hopeful at others. The descriptive settings made me feel I was part of the story itself and the writing was as beautiful as ever when it comes to this author.
As for Jane, she was sweet and considerate, but to an almost maddening point in my opinion. Most of the time she showed strength of character and common sense but when it came to trusting unworthy people or when it came to continue on the path she had already set her mind to follow she was inconstant and mutable. That whiplash attitude was one of the reasons I couldn’t enjoy the story more.
Also, the story is set in a place where propriety is not as strict as it would have been in England at the time but I still thought Jane didn’t come up to scratch as a governess to some extent. I’m not going to give specific examples because I don’t want to give spoilers but suffice to say her pupil would act incredibly unlady-like and Ms. Gray would just stand there and do nothing. I know, I’ve been told I need to let go of certain things when it comes to historicals but I just can’t!
As I said earlier dear reader, it IS a lovely story, full of passion, regrets, ambition, and true love. If this sounds like your cup of tea then I’m sure you are going to love it.
*** I received this book from the author at no cost to me and I volunteered to read it; this is my honest opinion and given without any influence by the author or publisher.***
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews