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A Suggestion of Scandal: A Regency Novel
If only he could find a lady who was tall enough to meet his eyes, intelligent enough not to bore him and who had that certain something that meant he could imagine spending the rest of his life with her.
As Sir Julian Loring returns to his father’s home, he never dreams that that lady could be Rosa Fancourt, his half-sister Chloe’s governess. Rosa is no longer the gawky girl fresh from a Bath academy whom he first met ten years ago. Today, she intrigues him. But just as they begin to draw closer, she disappears—in very dubious circumstances. Julian cannot bring himself to believe the worst of Rosa, but if she is blameless the truth could be even more shocking, with far-reaching repercussions for his own family, especially Chloe.
Later, driven by her concern for Chloe, Rosa accepts an invitation to spend some weeks at Castle Swanmere, home of Julian’s maternal grandfather. The widowed Meg Overton has also been invited and she is determined not to let the extremely eligible Julian slip through her fingers again.
When a ghost from Rosa’s past returns to haunt her, and Meg discredits Rosa publicly, Julian must decide where his loyalties lie.
As Sir Julian Loring returns to his father’s home, he never dreams that that lady could be Rosa Fancourt, his half-sister Chloe’s governess. Rosa is no longer the gawky girl fresh from a Bath academy whom he first met ten years ago. Today, she intrigues him. But just as they begin to draw closer, she disappears—in very dubious circumstances. Julian cannot bring himself to believe the worst of Rosa, but if she is blameless the truth could be even more shocking, with far-reaching repercussions for his own family, especially Chloe.
Later, driven by her concern for Chloe, Rosa accepts an invitation to spend some weeks at Castle Swanmere, home of Julian’s maternal grandfather. The widowed Meg Overton has also been invited and she is determined not to let the extremely eligible Julian slip through her fingers again.
When a ghost from Rosa’s past returns to haunt her, and Meg discredits Rosa publicly, Julian must decide where his loyalties lie.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 1, 2018
308 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Kullmann
14 books102 followersI was born and educated in Dublin. Following a three-year courtship conducted mostly by letter, I moved to Germany where I lived for twenty-five years before returning to Ireland. I have worked in the Irish and New Zealand public services and in the private sector.
I have a keen sense of history and of connection with the past which so often determines the present. I am fascinated by people. I love a good story, especially when characters come to life in a book.
I have always enjoyed writing, I love the fall of words, the shaping of an expressive phrase, the satisfaction when a sentence conveys my meaning exactly. I enjoy plotting and revel in the challenge of evoking a historic era for characters who behave authentically in their period while making their actions and decisions plausible and sympathetic to a modern reader. In addition, I am fanatical about language, especially using the right language as it would have been used during the period about which I am writing. But rewarding as all this craft is, there is nothing to match the moment when a book takes flight, when your characters suddenly determine the route of their journey.
I have a keen sense of history and of connection with the past which so often determines the present. I am fascinated by people. I love a good story, especially when characters come to life in a book.
I have always enjoyed writing, I love the fall of words, the shaping of an expressive phrase, the satisfaction when a sentence conveys my meaning exactly. I enjoy plotting and revel in the challenge of evoking a historic era for characters who behave authentically in their period while making their actions and decisions plausible and sympathetic to a modern reader. In addition, I am fanatical about language, especially using the right language as it would have been used during the period about which I am writing. But rewarding as all this craft is, there is nothing to match the moment when a book takes flight, when your characters suddenly determine the route of their journey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
October 19, 2018
I always come very late in an author's writing career (Joan Smith, Barbara Metzger, Georgette Heyer, Laura Kinsale, etc). So this is a first for me to come across an author who is fairly recent. The upside is that I hope to see many more novels from this author. The downside is that I have to wait and see if there are more novels (and when when when?).
When I started reading this, I wasn't sure what to expect because as with any new author, there's this worry about whether there was going to be some insipid insta-lust, too much "happening" with very little character development, or vice versa where there is SO much needless detail and yet so little forward progress. I have to say that Kullmann avoided all these pitfalls with this story.
From this point, I will state there are spoilers dotted throughout this review so beware...
.
.
.
.
.
.
From a technical aspect, it was incredibly well done. There was a tight structure throughout the story making it incredibly cohesive from start to finish. The tone was consistent and she didn't deviate from the essential plot. She also managed to include so much detail into the every day lives and expectations of women and men from all class levels. However, rather than beat you over the head with it, she incorporates it into the story flawlessly. So while you are thinking "wow, that's how they had to dress? that's how they had to address people? " you never think "OMG, this is so dull, let me skim the paragraphs until I come across something more interesting." I was also impressed with her use of words that are obsolete these days. HOW did she find these words no longer in use? (Or if they are, I've never heard them!) Call me impressed!
As to the story, it had a lovely dream like quality to me. The aristocrat/governess trope is a hard one because it's been done often and often poorly. But I felt that Kullmann sold the story to me by establishing that the governess had been with the family for 10 years. There was an established strong rapport with the family. And the H had always had kind (though not romantic) feelings towards her and vice versa. I think it was described as a sort of not clearly defined female relative connection. The moment we come across these characters, the H is around 35 and is at a point in his life where he would like to settle down and start a family. He only starts to notice the h when one of his cronies notices her which makes him begin to realize that she's an attractive woman in her own right. Also, when he learns that soon his sister will no longer need her governess and she will need to leave the family and seek employment elsewhere, it disrupts his vision of her as someone who's always been there in the background. He finds himself observing her and all that she does and the more he observes, the more he wants to get to know her. The h also begins to notice him because of his nice (and respectable) intentions but is aware that as a governess, she should never take it or allow it beyond that.
Through a series of events, when she leaves and starts the next phase of her life, the H follows. It's subtle and beautiful how he plans to draw her out away from the "governess role" and see if she could begin to feel for him what he is increasingly feeling for her. Some of the most sensual, beautiful moments had very little to do with sudden lust and the desire to get her into bed. They were the H's daydreams about the small, intimate moments that couples share. His imagining her laying back among pillows in a skiff reading aloud while he pushes them along the water. The right to reach out and wipe paint from her face and hands and perhaps go farther. All of it beautiful and touching and written with just the right amount of intimacy at that point of the story. Which is not to say there isn't some overt sensuality towards the end. But even then, it's handled beautifully.
When I finished the book, I had to go back and reread what I had bookmarked and found that I had bookmarked so many pages that I was basically rereading it. I went ahead and read one of her earlier books and though it was very good, it wasn't written quite as "tightly" as this book. But rather than be dismayed or disappointed, I found it interesting to see how she had grown as a writer. She went from writing good books to writing very good, almost great books (I say almost great because I think she'll only keep getting better so I have to allow some wiggle room there).
I do so hope there are more to come...
When I started reading this, I wasn't sure what to expect because as with any new author, there's this worry about whether there was going to be some insipid insta-lust, too much "happening" with very little character development, or vice versa where there is SO much needless detail and yet so little forward progress. I have to say that Kullmann avoided all these pitfalls with this story.
From this point, I will state there are spoilers dotted throughout this review so beware...
.
.
.
.
.
.
From a technical aspect, it was incredibly well done. There was a tight structure throughout the story making it incredibly cohesive from start to finish. The tone was consistent and she didn't deviate from the essential plot. She also managed to include so much detail into the every day lives and expectations of women and men from all class levels. However, rather than beat you over the head with it, she incorporates it into the story flawlessly. So while you are thinking "wow, that's how they had to dress? that's how they had to address people? " you never think "OMG, this is so dull, let me skim the paragraphs until I come across something more interesting." I was also impressed with her use of words that are obsolete these days. HOW did she find these words no longer in use? (Or if they are, I've never heard them!) Call me impressed!
As to the story, it had a lovely dream like quality to me. The aristocrat/governess trope is a hard one because it's been done often and often poorly. But I felt that Kullmann sold the story to me by establishing that the governess had been with the family for 10 years. There was an established strong rapport with the family. And the H had always had kind (though not romantic) feelings towards her and vice versa. I think it was described as a sort of not clearly defined female relative connection. The moment we come across these characters, the H is around 35 and is at a point in his life where he would like to settle down and start a family. He only starts to notice the h when one of his cronies notices her which makes him begin to realize that she's an attractive woman in her own right. Also, when he learns that soon his sister will no longer need her governess and she will need to leave the family and seek employment elsewhere, it disrupts his vision of her as someone who's always been there in the background. He finds himself observing her and all that she does and the more he observes, the more he wants to get to know her. The h also begins to notice him because of his nice (and respectable) intentions but is aware that as a governess, she should never take it or allow it beyond that.
Through a series of events, when she leaves and starts the next phase of her life, the H follows. It's subtle and beautiful how he plans to draw her out away from the "governess role" and see if she could begin to feel for him what he is increasingly feeling for her. Some of the most sensual, beautiful moments had very little to do with sudden lust and the desire to get her into bed. They were the H's daydreams about the small, intimate moments that couples share. His imagining her laying back among pillows in a skiff reading aloud while he pushes them along the water. The right to reach out and wipe paint from her face and hands and perhaps go farther. All of it beautiful and touching and written with just the right amount of intimacy at that point of the story. Which is not to say there isn't some overt sensuality towards the end. But even then, it's handled beautifully.
When I finished the book, I had to go back and reread what I had bookmarked and found that I had bookmarked so many pages that I was basically rereading it. I went ahead and read one of her earlier books and though it was very good, it wasn't written quite as "tightly" as this book. But rather than be dismayed or disappointed, I found it interesting to see how she had grown as a writer. She went from writing good books to writing very good, almost great books (I say almost great because I think she'll only keep getting better so I have to allow some wiggle room there).
I do so hope there are more to come...
October 21, 2018
As somebody who grew up loving Georgette Heyer and struggling to find authors that can quite manage the accurate depiction of the Regency era plus with sympathetic and engaging characters it was good to find somebody who is getting close to those joyful books.
Rosa, the governess who has had tragedy in her past, is a beautifully written and she is a heroine we definitely warm to and hope she will find happiness and Julian the son of the family she works for is also seen as slightly flawed but with a good heart. The tale has some characters designed to provide contrasts that we can struggle to like [the baddies/ones who throw spanners in the works] and we also have another layer with some subtle challenges to the way society was run back in the early 19th century - the double standards are looked at clearly but are not done in a clunky manner.
The only slight issues I had which did jar were the epilogue that seemed unnecessary and the 'inner voice' thoughts of a sexual nature that both have just felt as I thought that they took away from the period feel ... the other 'incident' early in the book I did not have the same problems with as it seemed necessary for the story and provided context for much that happened afterwards.
I don't have issues with sex scenes that are part of the flow of books or feel relevant to the time, and some period books that want to address that area, but for this style of book and what the front cover suggest I felt it wasn't necessary and hence it took it to a 3.5/4 * book.
Overall I did find much to enjoy and will look for more to read by Catherine Kullmann.
Rosa, the governess who has had tragedy in her past, is a beautifully written and she is a heroine we definitely warm to and hope she will find happiness and Julian the son of the family she works for is also seen as slightly flawed but with a good heart. The tale has some characters designed to provide contrasts that we can struggle to like [the baddies/ones who throw spanners in the works] and we also have another layer with some subtle challenges to the way society was run back in the early 19th century - the double standards are looked at clearly but are not done in a clunky manner.
The only slight issues I had which did jar were the epilogue that seemed unnecessary and the 'inner voice' thoughts of a sexual nature that both have just felt as I thought that they took away from the period feel ... the other 'incident' early in the book I did not have the same problems with as it seemed necessary for the story and provided context for much that happened afterwards.
I don't have issues with sex scenes that are part of the flow of books or feel relevant to the time, and some period books that want to address that area, but for this style of book and what the front cover suggest I felt it wasn't necessary and hence it took it to a 3.5/4 * book.
Overall I did find much to enjoy and will look for more to read by Catherine Kullmann.
June 13, 2022
Elegantly written and entertaining story.
This is a delightful historical novel, a regency romance that is a melding of the styles of Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen but told with contemporary social viewpoint. It is also thoroughly researched and historically accurate.
At a house party with her charge, Chloe Loring, the governess Rosa Fancourt meets an old acquaintance, Chloe’s half-brother, Sir Julian Loring. The couple strike up a relationship, but this friendship is cut short when Rosa is witness to an unsavoury incident and subsequently vanishes. Her actions giving rise to suspicion and inuendo but Sir Julian refuses to believe the rumours.
Although there is a backdrop of infidelity, jealousy and abuse, the main characters are likeable and well-drawn. This is an elegantly written and entertaining story with lots of twists and turns, a delight to read, definitely one to snuggle under the duvet cover with a glass of wine at hand!
This is a delightful historical novel, a regency romance that is a melding of the styles of Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen but told with contemporary social viewpoint. It is also thoroughly researched and historically accurate.
At a house party with her charge, Chloe Loring, the governess Rosa Fancourt meets an old acquaintance, Chloe’s half-brother, Sir Julian Loring. The couple strike up a relationship, but this friendship is cut short when Rosa is witness to an unsavoury incident and subsequently vanishes. Her actions giving rise to suspicion and inuendo but Sir Julian refuses to believe the rumours.
Although there is a backdrop of infidelity, jealousy and abuse, the main characters are likeable and well-drawn. This is an elegantly written and entertaining story with lots of twists and turns, a delight to read, definitely one to snuggle under the duvet cover with a glass of wine at hand!
June 16, 2022
Best historical romance I've read in years
This was my first experience reading Kullmann's work, and I've fallen in love. Her attention to historical detail is remarkable. Although I have been reading Regency romances since I was 11 years old, I found myself looking up words and phrases several times as I read this. And, I loved it!
What made this a five-star for me, was the intricacy of characterization, as well as the plausible and satisfying character change and growth the author included. This was not done through interminable bouts of narrated introspection on the part of the characters, but rather by the reader being shown via the interactions that occurred.
In addition, I fell in love with Rosa, the heroine. She is strong and self-reliant, and she handles situations without angst or drama. In addition, the hero is admirable, and introspective without being maudlin.
The storyline is exciting and immersive, while maintaining a level of credibility for the reader that is relatively rare these days. And, I must say, I was relieved to be spared the pages and pages of graphic sex with which so many of the current Regency romances seem to be rife.
If you are looking for an immersive, authentic storyline, with well-drawn and appealing (for the most part) characters, you should really give this book a try.
This was my first experience reading Kullmann's work, and I've fallen in love. Her attention to historical detail is remarkable. Although I have been reading Regency romances since I was 11 years old, I found myself looking up words and phrases several times as I read this. And, I loved it!
What made this a five-star for me, was the intricacy of characterization, as well as the plausible and satisfying character change and growth the author included. This was not done through interminable bouts of narrated introspection on the part of the characters, but rather by the reader being shown via the interactions that occurred.
In addition, I fell in love with Rosa, the heroine. She is strong and self-reliant, and she handles situations without angst or drama. In addition, the hero is admirable, and introspective without being maudlin.
The storyline is exciting and immersive, while maintaining a level of credibility for the reader that is relatively rare these days. And, I must say, I was relieved to be spared the pages and pages of graphic sex with which so many of the current Regency romances seem to be rife.
If you are looking for an immersive, authentic storyline, with well-drawn and appealing (for the most part) characters, you should really give this book a try.
October 20, 2018
A fabulous Regency romance set in England 1814, the main characters are so likable and well developed that I felt as though I knew them! Sir Julian Loring, the dashing hero and Rosa Fancourt, the hard working governess of his sister Chloe are lovely characters sympathetically written.
I was rooting for the couple, Julian and Rosa from page one and enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns in the book. The historical details make it feel as though you’re in the Regency era, the author obviously knows this time period well and you can tell the book has been well researched. The social niceties and constraints, especially for women in 1814 England are well described and I really felt for both Chloe and Rosa and their situations and differences in their places in society.
I enjoyed and recommend this novel, it has a Georgette Heyer quality to it. I look forward to reading other books by Catherine Kullmann.
I was rooting for the couple, Julian and Rosa from page one and enjoyed the unexpected twists and turns in the book. The historical details make it feel as though you’re in the Regency era, the author obviously knows this time period well and you can tell the book has been well researched. The social niceties and constraints, especially for women in 1814 England are well described and I really felt for both Chloe and Rosa and their situations and differences in their places in society.
I enjoyed and recommend this novel, it has a Georgette Heyer quality to it. I look forward to reading other books by Catherine Kullmann.
September 9, 2018
A Suggestion of Scandal by Catherine Kullmann has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
"I loved the characters, the plot, I loved the way it made me feel I was in the era."
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
"I loved the characters, the plot, I loved the way it made me feel I was in the era."
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
March 24, 2019
Simply lovely
This is the first book I've read by Catherine Kullmann, who was recommended by one of my favourite authors, Jayne Davis. This is a wonderful story, with a good amount of romance, tension, well drawn characters and an interesting plot. I'm off to buy her other books right now!
This is the first book I've read by Catherine Kullmann, who was recommended by one of my favourite authors, Jayne Davis. This is a wonderful story, with a good amount of romance, tension, well drawn characters and an interesting plot. I'm off to buy her other books right now!
July 3, 2021
Excellent Storytelling
Why has it taken me so long to find this author?
Another excellent story. Well thought out plot and believable characters.
I truly couldn't put it down.
Why has it taken me so long to find this author?
Another excellent story. Well thought out plot and believable characters.
I truly couldn't put it down.
December 5, 2021
4.5 out of 5 stars
June 29, 2022
What a great read! It has everything betrayal, bad behaviour, excitement, love & topped with a little sex! Just delightful. Another excellent read from Catherine Mullman. Thank you Catherine!
May 31, 2022
sweet clean regency romance
If you like sweet clean regency romance you will love this book. I love Mary Kingswood books and just found this author. Can’t wait to read more of her books.
If you like sweet clean regency romance you will love this book. I love Mary Kingswood books and just found this author. Can’t wait to read more of her books.
September 23, 2020
Loved it!
It’s really worth four and a half stars. So close to five, but without spoilers I can’t say why. You’ll have to decide for yourself once you finish it if it’s four star writing or five. It’s a tiny bit preachy, and the romance is just a little tame for my taste. The story is really good. I love the characters, and the settings. I kept wanting to get back to it, couldn’t wait to keep reading. I’m so glad there are more books by this author. I’ll certainly be reading them.
It’s really worth four and a half stars. So close to five, but without spoilers I can’t say why. You’ll have to decide for yourself once you finish it if it’s four star writing or five. It’s a tiny bit preachy, and the romance is just a little tame for my taste. The story is really good. I love the characters, and the settings. I kept wanting to get back to it, couldn’t wait to keep reading. I’m so glad there are more books by this author. I’ll certainly be reading them.
September 18, 2018
When I picked up A Suggestion of Scandal, I was expecting another treat from Catherine Kullmann’s pen, and she did not disappoint me. As with her previous novels (and delightful zombie-esque novella), she tackles issues and themes that are less often approached, with the skill and sensitivity and wit that many authors can only aspire to.
In A Suggestion of Scandal, governess Rosa Fancourt is enjoying one final house party with her charge, Chloe Loring, before the girl is handed over to another tutor to prepare her for her coming out the next year. Among those in the party is Chloe’s half-brother, Sir Julian Loring, who has spent much of the last several years attending to his own affairs. Meeting again as not-quite-strangers, Rosa and Sir Julian strike up a tentative friendship, united by their affection for Chloe. But before long, Rosa is witness to a sight most unsuitable for innocent eyes and vanishes from the estate in a trice, leaving all sorts of rumour and innuendo in her wake.
Not one to doubt his judgment of the governess’ character, Sir Julian refuses to believe these tales and searches for the truth – and Rosa. Chloe, too, desperately misses her friend, and when Sir Julian finds her at last, he convinces her to join him at his grandfather’s estate in an attempt to help recover his young sister’s spirits. But there are others staying at Swanmere, not all of whom appreciate the presence of an impoverished governess and the attention given her by their host, and when a person from Rosa’s past appears without warning, assumptions are made, tainting her with more than just the suggestion of a scandal!
In and amongst these themes of infidelity, jealousy, violence and abuse, however, we have a gentle tale of genuinely likeable main characters. Rosa is no simpering damsel in distress, but an intelligent and self-reliant young woman who is kind and caring and, when needed, can rescue herself without recourse to a knight in shining armour. Sir Julian likewise uses his head and, unlike in so many stories, does not just accept the first unlikely story he hears about her sudden disappearance, but presses for the truth, relying more upon his own experience and the evidence of his eyes than on the tales of others. They are genuine and real, and one can well imagine befriending them both and sitting down to a delightful afternoon of conversation over tea and cakes. As for the “bad guys,” they too are realistic. They have their vices, to be certain, but none is painted as so completely beyond all hope as to be unbelievable. The most vile actions are backed up by very plausible circumstances which make their behaviours, if not acceptable, then at least comprehensible.
Finally the writing – elegant, clear, entertaining. What more need be said? This book is a delight to read, a smart and unusual story, well-told, and definitely worth the time.
In A Suggestion of Scandal, governess Rosa Fancourt is enjoying one final house party with her charge, Chloe Loring, before the girl is handed over to another tutor to prepare her for her coming out the next year. Among those in the party is Chloe’s half-brother, Sir Julian Loring, who has spent much of the last several years attending to his own affairs. Meeting again as not-quite-strangers, Rosa and Sir Julian strike up a tentative friendship, united by their affection for Chloe. But before long, Rosa is witness to a sight most unsuitable for innocent eyes and vanishes from the estate in a trice, leaving all sorts of rumour and innuendo in her wake.
Not one to doubt his judgment of the governess’ character, Sir Julian refuses to believe these tales and searches for the truth – and Rosa. Chloe, too, desperately misses her friend, and when Sir Julian finds her at last, he convinces her to join him at his grandfather’s estate in an attempt to help recover his young sister’s spirits. But there are others staying at Swanmere, not all of whom appreciate the presence of an impoverished governess and the attention given her by their host, and when a person from Rosa’s past appears without warning, assumptions are made, tainting her with more than just the suggestion of a scandal!
In and amongst these themes of infidelity, jealousy, violence and abuse, however, we have a gentle tale of genuinely likeable main characters. Rosa is no simpering damsel in distress, but an intelligent and self-reliant young woman who is kind and caring and, when needed, can rescue herself without recourse to a knight in shining armour. Sir Julian likewise uses his head and, unlike in so many stories, does not just accept the first unlikely story he hears about her sudden disappearance, but presses for the truth, relying more upon his own experience and the evidence of his eyes than on the tales of others. They are genuine and real, and one can well imagine befriending them both and sitting down to a delightful afternoon of conversation over tea and cakes. As for the “bad guys,” they too are realistic. They have their vices, to be certain, but none is painted as so completely beyond all hope as to be unbelievable. The most vile actions are backed up by very plausible circumstances which make their behaviours, if not acceptable, then at least comprehensible.
Finally the writing – elegant, clear, entertaining. What more need be said? This book is a delight to read, a smart and unusual story, well-told, and definitely worth the time.
May 21, 2019
Another Regency Delight
I'm a new reader but I am set to become more. I enjoyed this book a lot. The historical detail had me searching the web for things I hadn't encountered before and they were all well grounded in fact.
I'm especially grateful for the details on water closets, baths and the high water service. They are helpful for something I have begun writing. Not a work of the injustices navigation, such as this, but the history of a house in Brighton. I'd love to have skills like this author and others but I don't think I have their expertise with characters and dialogue.
As the author says, the best stories make you curious to know more. This story certainly does that and brings to life the social realities of the time, especially for women. It was a time of great change, great progress and, sadly, great tragedy too. It's life gone by but I believe history shows us how we got to now. We ignore it at our peril.
The situation Rosa finds herself in was similar to that of hundreds, even thousands of women. Life without a husband was very restricted and social class far more rigid than most of us will ever face. Rosa"s story is so well told and the other characters are well drawn, like or loathe them as we may, with many being engaging, or infuriating, or... It's a good tale, with ups and downs and told with empathy.
I'm a long term admirer of Jane Austen and discovered Georgette Heyer in childhood, thanks to my somewhat older sisters. I am so pleased to have found several newer authors who write so well. I recommend Alicia Cameron, Mary Kingswood and more. Adrian Goldsworthy has written wonderful but heartbreaking novels set in the Peninsular Wars and some excellent ones on Roman Britain too. He's an acclaimed historian who writes fiction with flair and non-fiction with great expertise. He brings battles to life in their awful and tragic chaos and suffering, where luck seems to play as great a part as strategy and tactics. Much as I've long surmised. I often read such things with m hands over my eyes, pepping through my fingers and I sometimes skip bits that are too much to bear at the time. I know that doesn't sound encouraging and apologize a little. It's best to be prepared for reading things not at all cosy. I apologize wholeheartedly for any typos or other errors I don't notice before posting.
If you like genealogical mysteries, I also recommend Nathan Dylan Goodwin, who writes fascinating stories with research based in real sources and resources and based on historic fact. For archeology based mysteries, Elly Griffith is a firm favourite of mine.
The novels of Jennifer Ashley aka Ashley Gardener, are enjoyable too.
I'm a new reader but I am set to become more. I enjoyed this book a lot. The historical detail had me searching the web for things I hadn't encountered before and they were all well grounded in fact.
I'm especially grateful for the details on water closets, baths and the high water service. They are helpful for something I have begun writing. Not a work of the injustices navigation, such as this, but the history of a house in Brighton. I'd love to have skills like this author and others but I don't think I have their expertise with characters and dialogue.
As the author says, the best stories make you curious to know more. This story certainly does that and brings to life the social realities of the time, especially for women. It was a time of great change, great progress and, sadly, great tragedy too. It's life gone by but I believe history shows us how we got to now. We ignore it at our peril.
The situation Rosa finds herself in was similar to that of hundreds, even thousands of women. Life without a husband was very restricted and social class far more rigid than most of us will ever face. Rosa"s story is so well told and the other characters are well drawn, like or loathe them as we may, with many being engaging, or infuriating, or... It's a good tale, with ups and downs and told with empathy.
I'm a long term admirer of Jane Austen and discovered Georgette Heyer in childhood, thanks to my somewhat older sisters. I am so pleased to have found several newer authors who write so well. I recommend Alicia Cameron, Mary Kingswood and more. Adrian Goldsworthy has written wonderful but heartbreaking novels set in the Peninsular Wars and some excellent ones on Roman Britain too. He's an acclaimed historian who writes fiction with flair and non-fiction with great expertise. He brings battles to life in their awful and tragic chaos and suffering, where luck seems to play as great a part as strategy and tactics. Much as I've long surmised. I often read such things with m hands over my eyes, pepping through my fingers and I sometimes skip bits that are too much to bear at the time. I know that doesn't sound encouraging and apologize a little. It's best to be prepared for reading things not at all cosy. I apologize wholeheartedly for any typos or other errors I don't notice before posting.
If you like genealogical mysteries, I also recommend Nathan Dylan Goodwin, who writes fascinating stories with research based in real sources and resources and based on historic fact. For archeology based mysteries, Elly Griffith is a firm favourite of mine.
The novels of Jennifer Ashley aka Ashley Gardener, are enjoyable too.
November 2, 2023
An epic regency romance novel.
Ms Kullman spares no details in her 400 plus page novels. So many characters, so many life stories, so many intertwined relationships - it's easy to sometimes lose track of the plot lines. But, though the side stories can be confusing they actually add realism to the lives of the aristocracy where everyone seem to be cousins.
Plan to spend three or four pleasurable days to read and comprehend it all.
Ms Kullman spares no details in her 400 plus page novels. So many characters, so many life stories, so many intertwined relationships - it's easy to sometimes lose track of the plot lines. But, though the side stories can be confusing they actually add realism to the lives of the aristocracy where everyone seem to be cousins.
Plan to spend three or four pleasurable days to read and comprehend it all.
August 8, 2018
Thanks to Netgalley and Willow Books for providing me with a digital review copy.
I have very mixed feelings about this book. There are things I really did enjoy, such as the character development and overall writing style. I liked Rosa and Julian. The progression of their romance felt natural and they are characters that seemed to deserve a happy ending. I also appreciated that the author did not use the usual tactic of MISUNDERSTANDING to drag out the resolution of the main characters' relationship. Yes, there were some misunderstandings, but Rosa and Julian were quick to assume the best. The pacing of the novel was perhaps a bit slow at times, but that didn't bother me.
Now for what I didn't like...
The couple mental asides where Julian is basically ogling Rosa were uncomfortable (to be fair, it wasn't all one-sided. At one point she was basically checking out his backside, and that was also weird to read). The book does contain one brief PG-13 scene that could have been less detailed (not involving either MC, and it is presented in a negative light). Also, I think the author was trying to highlight the hypocritical view of the times when it came to a women versus a man not being chaste, but in some ways it seemed more like a condoning of the behavior in general.
Despite those things, I still might have recommended it if not for the Epilogue. It didn't fit with the rest of the book's content. It was like I had suddenly stumbled into a Harlequin romance novel. Now, I do realize that a wedding night generally follows a wedding. That being said, I still don't want to read about it in anything more than very general remarks.
I have very mixed feelings about this book. There are things I really did enjoy, such as the character development and overall writing style. I liked Rosa and Julian. The progression of their romance felt natural and they are characters that seemed to deserve a happy ending. I also appreciated that the author did not use the usual tactic of MISUNDERSTANDING to drag out the resolution of the main characters' relationship. Yes, there were some misunderstandings, but Rosa and Julian were quick to assume the best. The pacing of the novel was perhaps a bit slow at times, but that didn't bother me.
Now for what I didn't like...
The couple mental asides where Julian is basically ogling Rosa were uncomfortable (to be fair, it wasn't all one-sided. At one point she was basically checking out his backside, and that was also weird to read). The book does contain one brief PG-13 scene that could have been less detailed (not involving either MC, and it is presented in a negative light). Also, I think the author was trying to highlight the hypocritical view of the times when it came to a women versus a man not being chaste, but in some ways it seemed more like a condoning of the behavior in general.
Despite those things, I still might have recommended it if not for the Epilogue. It didn't fit with the rest of the book's content. It was like I had suddenly stumbled into a Harlequin romance novel. Now, I do realize that a wedding night generally follows a wedding. That being said, I still don't want to read about it in anything more than very general remarks.
November 8, 2018
If you enjoy Romance stories then you really should read this! I must admit, the cover did not pull me in at all, in fact it was the blurb that grabbed my attention, and in this case I am very glad that I did not “Judge A Book By It’s Cover” as I would have missed out on a true Gem of a story!
Looking at the cover, I truly expected this to be an attempt at recreating a Pride and Prejudice type of tale, or perhaps something more factual based or shakespearesque? Had I not decided to check the Blurb and see, this is probably not one I would have found myself reading, and that in fact, has taught me a valuable Lesson!
From the first pages this was a story that gripped me and kept me entertained throughout. I found myself hopeful for the main Characters HEA right from meeting them. This was such a heartwarming story overall, and yet there are twists and turns throughout.
I often find that with Historical Romances, the storyline can waver in and out, and there tend to be elements that seem to add nothing to the story, but in this case I was impressed. The plot was very clearly well thought out, and I found that the details were wonderfully crafted to make me feel as though I had been teleported back to the Era. The attitudes, fashions and social climate were very well recreated in the prose, without being a never ending stream of descriptive monologue regarding the differences.
Far from Meandering, the story is kept tightly to itself central storyline, had me smiling and gasping a few times, and was just the perfect read to remind me why I always come back to Romance. I enjoyed each page, and find myself Eager to see what comes next from Kullman!
Looking at the cover, I truly expected this to be an attempt at recreating a Pride and Prejudice type of tale, or perhaps something more factual based or shakespearesque? Had I not decided to check the Blurb and see, this is probably not one I would have found myself reading, and that in fact, has taught me a valuable Lesson!
From the first pages this was a story that gripped me and kept me entertained throughout. I found myself hopeful for the main Characters HEA right from meeting them. This was such a heartwarming story overall, and yet there are twists and turns throughout.
I often find that with Historical Romances, the storyline can waver in and out, and there tend to be elements that seem to add nothing to the story, but in this case I was impressed. The plot was very clearly well thought out, and I found that the details were wonderfully crafted to make me feel as though I had been teleported back to the Era. The attitudes, fashions and social climate were very well recreated in the prose, without being a never ending stream of descriptive monologue regarding the differences.
Far from Meandering, the story is kept tightly to itself central storyline, had me smiling and gasping a few times, and was just the perfect read to remind me why I always come back to Romance. I enjoyed each page, and find myself Eager to see what comes next from Kullman!
August 4, 2023
3.5 stars.
I enjoyed this a fair bit. It has a lot going for it: nice historical details and language, an h who's kind and starting a new life of her own, decent side characters, and good pacing. I appreciated an H who wasn't a rake and was a decent guy. There was a good balance of drama, conniving, and comeuppance. The slow burn romance was sweet and I really liked that the author didn't make the h pine away for the H the whole ten years of their acquaintance, nor did he parade a new paramour (or anyone at all) at their family get-togethers which the h would have to endure. Overall, there wasn't really any OP drama. It would have been nice of the H had something of a rival for the h's attention, but their steadfastness toward one another, even before confessing their feelings for each other, was tender and lovely.
I do wish that the epilogue occurred a bit further into the future. After all the two of them went through to get their HEA, I would've preferred to see their little family, not the wedding night. Another reason to deduct stars was the
I'd be willing to read more by this author but would have to check for safety information beforehand.
I enjoyed this a fair bit. It has a lot going for it: nice historical details and language, an h who's kind and starting a new life of her own, decent side characters, and good pacing. I appreciated an H who wasn't a rake and was a decent guy. There was a good balance of drama, conniving, and comeuppance. The slow burn romance was sweet and I really liked that the author didn't make the h pine away for the H the whole ten years of their acquaintance, nor did he parade a new paramour (or anyone at all) at their family get-togethers which the h would have to endure. Overall, there wasn't really any OP drama. It would have been nice of the H had something of a rival for the h's attention, but their steadfastness toward one another, even before confessing their feelings for each other, was tender and lovely.
I do wish that the epilogue occurred a bit further into the future. After all the two of them went through to get their HEA, I would've preferred to see their little family, not the wedding night. Another reason to deduct stars was the
I'd be willing to read more by this author but would have to check for safety information beforehand.
August 15, 2018
Georgette Heyer has always been one of my favourite authors, but I usually avoid Regency romances nowadays as they seldom measure up to her novels. I can honestly say, however, that I thoroughly enjoyed A Suggestion of Scandal, which is a Regency romance for the twenty first century. The characters are appealing, the plot has lots of unexpected twists and turns, and the historical details and period setting all feel authentic. From the start, the book was a page-turner. Highly recommended.
April 6, 2021
I loved this book. Modern version of Georgette Heyer with all the historical detail and nuance. Highly recommend, on the keeper shelf and has been reread.
July 11, 2025
I absolutely loved this book.
The heroine has been governess to the younger sister of the Hero for the last 10 years, so she and the Hero have known each other for a long time. Though they are friendly and polite to each other, there are no romantic feelings between them………yet ☺️
The story really starts on this 10th year when there is a party in the Hero’s father’s house, and he is told to bring along some friends. The Hero, as a bachelor spends most of his time away, he also holds another title, apart from the one he will inherit from his father. It is at this time, when one of his eligible friends notices the heroine, that the Hero finally sits up and takes notice as well. He is suddenly protective over the heroine. And indeed he and everyone else in his family view her as a member of their family and have come to rely on her kindness and helpful manner. The Hero begins to notice how industrious she is, and he takes note that she never encourages the attentions of his friends, though she is always polite and friendly.
SPOILERS:
It is at this point where things take a turn. One day as the heroine and the young sister are walking, they are caught in a sudden storm and seek shelter at an old cottage. However, they come upon the girl’s mother doing something scandalous with a neighbor. Things happen and the heroine finds herself kidnapped by the neighbor so she cannot reveal what she had seen. The sister had fallen and hit her head, so at the moment, cannot remember anything. The mother and neighbor then accuse the heroine of running away with a man.
Most of the family members, and even the Hero are shocked at first, but after, upon reflection, cannot reconcile her behavior with the person they know. The Hero tries to investigate and he cannot find any trace of this strange man the heroine is said to have eloped with. He is also more convinced that something bad has happened to the heroine, and is very worried about her.
Meanwhile, the heroine had managed to escape, however she knows she cannot go back and accuse the mother of the girl. She goes to some family friends and tells them the whole story. They are kind and take her in. They also help get her things from the house of the employers. It is at this time that everything is revealed. The Hero is furious w his step-mother and his father is disgusted w her. She is dealt a fitting punishment.
The young sister has recovered and also corroborates the story of the family friend. But she is depressed. The Hero then decides to bring his sister to his other grandfather to recuperate and he invites the heroine to join them as their guest. He is very remorseful about how his step-mother and fiendish neighbor have treated the heroine.
The next part is lovely, because at this new location, the Hero and heroine interact more as equals. She is not an employee but rather is a favored guest of the Hero and his family. He has also invited a widowed cousin who has children that are his sisters age. The cousin thinks she can lure the Hero into becoming her next husband, but he constantly evades her. And every time she tries to put the heroine down, he comes to her defense!
It is here where the Hero really does fall in love w the heroine. He had always admired her, but it is now that he comes to realize that he wants her constantly in his life. This slow burn romance really unfolds in a truly lovely manner. In all ways the Hero is protective and solicitous towards the heroine. Not to mention the other members of his family hold her in the highest regard, so the cousin’s nose is always put out of join 😂
There is one last secret from the heroine’s past which I wont reveal, but its just another dimension of the author’s lovely storytelling that will have a wonderful resolution at the end.
An all around lovely beautiful story ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
The heroine has been governess to the younger sister of the Hero for the last 10 years, so she and the Hero have known each other for a long time. Though they are friendly and polite to each other, there are no romantic feelings between them………yet ☺️
The story really starts on this 10th year when there is a party in the Hero’s father’s house, and he is told to bring along some friends. The Hero, as a bachelor spends most of his time away, he also holds another title, apart from the one he will inherit from his father. It is at this time, when one of his eligible friends notices the heroine, that the Hero finally sits up and takes notice as well. He is suddenly protective over the heroine. And indeed he and everyone else in his family view her as a member of their family and have come to rely on her kindness and helpful manner. The Hero begins to notice how industrious she is, and he takes note that she never encourages the attentions of his friends, though she is always polite and friendly.
SPOILERS:
It is at this point where things take a turn. One day as the heroine and the young sister are walking, they are caught in a sudden storm and seek shelter at an old cottage. However, they come upon the girl’s mother doing something scandalous with a neighbor. Things happen and the heroine finds herself kidnapped by the neighbor so she cannot reveal what she had seen. The sister had fallen and hit her head, so at the moment, cannot remember anything. The mother and neighbor then accuse the heroine of running away with a man.
Most of the family members, and even the Hero are shocked at first, but after, upon reflection, cannot reconcile her behavior with the person they know. The Hero tries to investigate and he cannot find any trace of this strange man the heroine is said to have eloped with. He is also more convinced that something bad has happened to the heroine, and is very worried about her.
Meanwhile, the heroine had managed to escape, however she knows she cannot go back and accuse the mother of the girl. She goes to some family friends and tells them the whole story. They are kind and take her in. They also help get her things from the house of the employers. It is at this time that everything is revealed. The Hero is furious w his step-mother and his father is disgusted w her. She is dealt a fitting punishment.
The young sister has recovered and also corroborates the story of the family friend. But she is depressed. The Hero then decides to bring his sister to his other grandfather to recuperate and he invites the heroine to join them as their guest. He is very remorseful about how his step-mother and fiendish neighbor have treated the heroine.
The next part is lovely, because at this new location, the Hero and heroine interact more as equals. She is not an employee but rather is a favored guest of the Hero and his family. He has also invited a widowed cousin who has children that are his sisters age. The cousin thinks she can lure the Hero into becoming her next husband, but he constantly evades her. And every time she tries to put the heroine down, he comes to her defense!
It is here where the Hero really does fall in love w the heroine. He had always admired her, but it is now that he comes to realize that he wants her constantly in his life. This slow burn romance really unfolds in a truly lovely manner. In all ways the Hero is protective and solicitous towards the heroine. Not to mention the other members of his family hold her in the highest regard, so the cousin’s nose is always put out of join 😂
There is one last secret from the heroine’s past which I wont reveal, but its just another dimension of the author’s lovely storytelling that will have a wonderful resolution at the end.
An all around lovely beautiful story ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 10, 2018
A Suggestion of Scandal, Catherine Kullmann
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Historical fiction
I only dip into historical novels occasionally, sometimes its nice to eascape to a different age. I'd say a gentler time, but that really depended on where you stood in life, and of course for women the cards were already stacked, something made very obvoius in this story.
Its a fun read, a gentle romance with a backstory that was engaging, added that bit extra to the Lord meets Governess romance. I really enjoyed the day to day descriptions, the planning what do do for the day or evening that was done. A lady's life was very different then, very dictated by societal mores, and doing the right thing and being seen to do it was so very important. It would have driven me nuts! Having servants for the daily drudge left them with free time that needed occupying, but there were strictures on what they could do.
I loved the characters, Rosa's scenario was very believable, Chloe and her family fairly typical of the time and Julian, ah Julian was a perfect gentleman. Then when they stay at Swanmere we meet his cousin, the widowed Mrs Overton, and her children and their friend Robert. She was such a delicious character, I love ones like her in a story. She's decided Julian will do for husband number two, and is making her play, but thwarted by Rosa, who she sees as an interloper. Determined to get her way she does her best to oust Rosa by whatever means necessary.
I really enjoyed this story, the action, with first the events at The Place which led to Rosa's leaving and then at Swanmere, made for an interesting tale. I learned more about history and how it affected people in their daily life. Not just those above stairs but the staff too had rules, even simple things like Polly being addressed as Lambton. One of the other staff tell her she must get Rosa to call her Lambton, not Polly, as the other staff will regard her differently. From Lord to scullery-maid, everyone seems to have a hierarchy quite rigidly adhered to, and ways of behaving and doing things that were fixed.
The romance was very gentle, as would have been at the time, though I'm not convinced that someone so highly placed in society as Julian would have looked at, or got away with marrying, a governess. Still, this is fiction and I love a downtrodden girl makes good story ;-)
Rosa was a lovely lady but not one of those so sweet they set my teeth on edge. She had a subtle wit and a way of turning round slights thrown her way by Mrs Overton. Those scenes were great to read, I could imagine the genteel gnashing of teeth, while insults were carefully placed, and then cleverly deflected.
Stars: Five, a gentle read, but with action that lifted it from just a lord meets governess simple romance. I'm not sure I'd re-read it but it was a perfect one off story for me.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and Publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, Historical fiction
I only dip into historical novels occasionally, sometimes its nice to eascape to a different age. I'd say a gentler time, but that really depended on where you stood in life, and of course for women the cards were already stacked, something made very obvoius in this story.
Its a fun read, a gentle romance with a backstory that was engaging, added that bit extra to the Lord meets Governess romance. I really enjoyed the day to day descriptions, the planning what do do for the day or evening that was done. A lady's life was very different then, very dictated by societal mores, and doing the right thing and being seen to do it was so very important. It would have driven me nuts! Having servants for the daily drudge left them with free time that needed occupying, but there were strictures on what they could do.
I loved the characters, Rosa's scenario was very believable, Chloe and her family fairly typical of the time and Julian, ah Julian was a perfect gentleman. Then when they stay at Swanmere we meet his cousin, the widowed Mrs Overton, and her children and their friend Robert. She was such a delicious character, I love ones like her in a story. She's decided Julian will do for husband number two, and is making her play, but thwarted by Rosa, who she sees as an interloper. Determined to get her way she does her best to oust Rosa by whatever means necessary.
I really enjoyed this story, the action, with first the events at The Place which led to Rosa's leaving and then at Swanmere, made for an interesting tale. I learned more about history and how it affected people in their daily life. Not just those above stairs but the staff too had rules, even simple things like Polly being addressed as Lambton. One of the other staff tell her she must get Rosa to call her Lambton, not Polly, as the other staff will regard her differently. From Lord to scullery-maid, everyone seems to have a hierarchy quite rigidly adhered to, and ways of behaving and doing things that were fixed.
The romance was very gentle, as would have been at the time, though I'm not convinced that someone so highly placed in society as Julian would have looked at, or got away with marrying, a governess. Still, this is fiction and I love a downtrodden girl makes good story ;-)
Rosa was a lovely lady but not one of those so sweet they set my teeth on edge. She had a subtle wit and a way of turning round slights thrown her way by Mrs Overton. Those scenes were great to read, I could imagine the genteel gnashing of teeth, while insults were carefully placed, and then cleverly deflected.
Stars: Five, a gentle read, but with action that lifted it from just a lord meets governess simple romance. I'm not sure I'd re-read it but it was a perfect one off story for me.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and Publishers
August 8, 2021
4 accomplished stars
‘A suggestion of scandal’ fulfilled my expectations of a well written and carefully researched Regency novel. I love every iteration of the ‘gentleman-marries-governess’ trope, and the romance was engaging and well paced. Both main characters had a strong sense of honor, and it was easy to see from their very first interactions that they fit perfectly together. The first half of the story featured a couple of repentine plot twists that I hadn’t anticipated and which kept the plot fresh and engaging. So far so good.
Upon reaching the 60% mark however, the plot dissolved into a sequence of vignettes featuring the main cast of characters amusing themselves at a house party. All the principal events happened off page, and our main characters were merely informed of what had passed and they reacted with various exclamations of shock. Far too many redundant conversations, not enough action. Not even the hero’s love confession managed to salvage the plot, since their antagonist was a caricature of an ambitious widow and never once stood a chance of separating them.
This isn’t even a question of the book being PG-13 for its near entirety (with one awkward wedding consummation featured in the epilogue, which I frankly thought was unnecessary), since I’ve read many a clean historical romance that still featured their good share of tension and/or angst and kept me engaged from the first to the last page. Reading about a group of people contemplating how to spend their leisure time for 200 pages is simply not going to keep me interested. Give your characters something to DO, I’m begging you.
‘A suggestion of scandal’ fulfilled my expectations of a well written and carefully researched Regency novel. I love every iteration of the ‘gentleman-marries-governess’ trope, and the romance was engaging and well paced. Both main characters had a strong sense of honor, and it was easy to see from their very first interactions that they fit perfectly together. The first half of the story featured a couple of repentine plot twists that I hadn’t anticipated and which kept the plot fresh and engaging. So far so good.
Upon reaching the 60% mark however, the plot dissolved into a sequence of vignettes featuring the main cast of characters amusing themselves at a house party. All the principal events happened off page, and our main characters were merely informed of what had passed and they reacted with various exclamations of shock. Far too many redundant conversations, not enough action. Not even the hero’s love confession managed to salvage the plot, since their antagonist was a caricature of an ambitious widow and never once stood a chance of separating them.
This isn’t even a question of the book being PG-13 for its near entirety (with one awkward wedding consummation featured in the epilogue, which I frankly thought was unnecessary), since I’ve read many a clean historical romance that still featured their good share of tension and/or angst and kept me engaged from the first to the last page. Reading about a group of people contemplating how to spend their leisure time for 200 pages is simply not going to keep me interested. Give your characters something to DO, I’m begging you.
September 30, 2018
This book was a good read. I enjoy romance books of all genres but often find regency to be the most difficult to pull off- perhaps I have been spoiled by Georgette Heyer but so many contemporary authors don't get it quite right, but this author hits the spot. Told at a mostly sedate pace the tale has enough action and adventure to balance the mundanity of the life of a Georgian woman and the particular difficulties of being neither servant nor family as Rosa is as a governess. The hierarchy reaches through to the servants and I loved the exchange between Rosa and Polly about her new status.
We are also made to consider the clear double standards between how men and women are treated for their indiscretions. The men can carry on as if nothing has happened and there are absolutely no consequences, the women are ostracised, denied their children and have to take it all as they are always the one in the wrong. I found this aspect of Georgian life very sad and it must have been so difficult.
The characterisation was well realised, and I especially felt Mrs Overton was a great addition to the cast in the latter half of the tale. Rosa and Julian were both a little too good to be true but not unlikeable and the others, older and younger, had enough individuality to make them feel real.
I personally felt that the epilogue was not really required, and felt that the mild sex scene in this was superfluous to the story. I am not in the least prudish but it felt a bit like an add-on for no real benefit.
An enjoyable book and I will be looking for others by this author.
We are also made to consider the clear double standards between how men and women are treated for their indiscretions. The men can carry on as if nothing has happened and there are absolutely no consequences, the women are ostracised, denied their children and have to take it all as they are always the one in the wrong. I found this aspect of Georgian life very sad and it must have been so difficult.
The characterisation was well realised, and I especially felt Mrs Overton was a great addition to the cast in the latter half of the tale. Rosa and Julian were both a little too good to be true but not unlikeable and the others, older and younger, had enough individuality to make them feel real.
I personally felt that the epilogue was not really required, and felt that the mild sex scene in this was superfluous to the story. I am not in the least prudish but it felt a bit like an add-on for no real benefit.
An enjoyable book and I will be looking for others by this author.
September 27, 2023
Very correctly Regency, albeit more revealing of the sexual peccadilloes of the upper classes. Sir Julian Loring visits his father's home, Loring Place, in which his stepmother and half-sister Chloe also reside. Chloe's governess, Rosa Fancourt, is at the end of her duties and will be leaving soon for another position. Julian's recognition and growing attraction to her is realistically depicted. She entertains no awareness of it whatsoever, as the impossibility of such an alliance was ever present in her mind.
On a walk, Rosa and Chloe are caught in the rain and run to a cottage for shelter. This results in a disaster with far-reaching consequences for all parties, as Rosa disappears, leaving a mystery in her wake. Circumstances bring her to Swanmere, Julian's grandfather's home, where her past catches up with her, through no fault of her own.
From the beginning, a barrage of characters is thrown at the reader. Even taking notes was not enough to sort them all out, as some were introduced without explanation. Wait. Is she a daughter? A granddaughter, a niece, a cousin, a friend? What? It's a head-spinning melange of relatives, neighbors, friends. A page with a list of characters and their descriptions would have been very helpful. In spite of that, it was a well-written, enjoyable read from an author with whom I was unfamiliar. Reading it kept me awake until the wee hours. I found the wedding night scene at the end unnecessarily explicit and voyeuristic, though.
On a walk, Rosa and Chloe are caught in the rain and run to a cottage for shelter. This results in a disaster with far-reaching consequences for all parties, as Rosa disappears, leaving a mystery in her wake. Circumstances bring her to Swanmere, Julian's grandfather's home, where her past catches up with her, through no fault of her own.
From the beginning, a barrage of characters is thrown at the reader. Even taking notes was not enough to sort them all out, as some were introduced without explanation. Wait. Is she a daughter? A granddaughter, a niece, a cousin, a friend? What? It's a head-spinning melange of relatives, neighbors, friends. A page with a list of characters and their descriptions would have been very helpful. In spite of that, it was a well-written, enjoyable read from an author with whom I was unfamiliar. Reading it kept me awake until the wee hours. I found the wedding night scene at the end unnecessarily explicit and voyeuristic, though.
August 22, 2020
Why is it always the governess? Poor darling already down on her luck shunned by society. Not really acceptable, not really a servant but always on the fringes. Good enough to train the daughters to be ladies and the sons to complete their studies but when they are old enough to leave the classroom dear Miss So and So has to go. On to the next place for like your favorite shoes she has worn out her welcome.
A father who has died or gambled away his fortune. In this case it was a Captain in the navy killed in service, a mother who remarried and died in childbirth and a step-father who cast out a almost grown step-daughter. Sent into service as a governess after she finished school and a year of teaching students at her previous school. Set up in a gentry home for ten years now it is time for her to move on. The question is where, with no family and no connections, a scandal at the the previous employers that she had nothing to do with caused her to leave without a recommendation. No money, only the clothes on her back and no recommendation!
Her solicitor offered to pretend she was a cousin so she could be a companion to his wife who was impaired with arthritis and in need of a assistant.
The previous child she was governess for ( Chloe) was distraught by her absence of her governess and sought to bring her back for the summer as the child adapted to her new circumstance.
A father who has died or gambled away his fortune. In this case it was a Captain in the navy killed in service, a mother who remarried and died in childbirth and a step-father who cast out a almost grown step-daughter. Sent into service as a governess after she finished school and a year of teaching students at her previous school. Set up in a gentry home for ten years now it is time for her to move on. The question is where, with no family and no connections, a scandal at the the previous employers that she had nothing to do with caused her to leave without a recommendation. No money, only the clothes on her back and no recommendation!
Her solicitor offered to pretend she was a cousin so she could be a companion to his wife who was impaired with arthritis and in need of a assistant.
The previous child she was governess for ( Chloe) was distraught by her absence of her governess and sought to bring her back for the summer as the child adapted to her new circumstance.
September 18, 2023
not clean for a regency
The book was excellent until the explicit ending. Ruined the whole book.
I was slightly concerned early on with the H thoughts of the h cleavage and other direct sexual interest. But since it was only a few times and never was explicit and just on the edge but not focused on I hoped that was the most sexual it got.
At least they were married first. However the explicit details of the bedroom doez not add to a story but detracts from it. If you want porn there is plenty out there. I hate it wrapped up in a regency story.
The saddest thing is that the author is very good. Her writing is excellent and her story flowed well and the plot was not focused on the H and h sexual attraction. Had the ending been clean itt would have received 5 stars and I would have bought the series.
I just wish there was a book rating system as is for movies. I read several reviews and finally found one that intimated this had too little kissing for the readers tastes, which I incorrectly assumed meant it was cleanly written.
I'm glad I did not purchase the whole series.
If you like explicit it is only at the end so may not be enough for those that like tantalizing books. Usually they want it cover to cover. But for those looking for a clean regency it is not that either.
Ending was disappointing for me.
The book was excellent until the explicit ending. Ruined the whole book.
I was slightly concerned early on with the H thoughts of the h cleavage and other direct sexual interest. But since it was only a few times and never was explicit and just on the edge but not focused on I hoped that was the most sexual it got.
At least they were married first. However the explicit details of the bedroom doez not add to a story but detracts from it. If you want porn there is plenty out there. I hate it wrapped up in a regency story.
The saddest thing is that the author is very good. Her writing is excellent and her story flowed well and the plot was not focused on the H and h sexual attraction. Had the ending been clean itt would have received 5 stars and I would have bought the series.
I just wish there was a book rating system as is for movies. I read several reviews and finally found one that intimated this had too little kissing for the readers tastes, which I incorrectly assumed meant it was cleanly written.
I'm glad I did not purchase the whole series.
If you like explicit it is only at the end so may not be enough for those that like tantalizing books. Usually they want it cover to cover. But for those looking for a clean regency it is not that either.
Ending was disappointing for me.
August 25, 2018
This is a lovely story of a lady who is not of the ton but a lady, nevertheless. Rosa is orphaned and once out of school sent to be a governess to Chole, Lord Julian Loring's sister. While accompanying Chole on a walk, a rainstorm threatens and they run to an unused hut until the rain stops. Someone happens to be in there and are caught in an intimate act with another's wife. Chole falls and loses consciousness and Rosa is kidnapped. Knowing Rosa would never leave without a word, Lord Julian looks for her and finds that there is a lot more to this story than is what Lady Loring has said. Julian cannot help but see what a perfect woman Rosa is for him. Secrets come out, people who gossip maliciously are all part of the romance between Julian and Rosa. Loved this book. So sweet. I received this book from Net Galley and BooksGoSocial for a honest review and no compensation otherwise.
July 2, 2022
Readable, enjoyable
I vacillated between 4 and 5 stars. The story was good enough that I wasn’t easily distracted away from it which is unusual for me. My chief complaints are slow pacing through some parts of the story, and a hero and heroine who were a bit too perfect to be believable.
As to the perfections of the H/h, Rosa is all things wise, considerate, accommodating, and modest while the hero, Julian is the epitome of masculinity, thoughtfulness, and understanding. I guess I find such perfect characters a bit one dimensional and thus, would have appreciated a little more messiness in their characters. Perhaps a little more bitterness from Rosa over shabby treatment and a little more wary suspicion from Julian wouldn’t have gone amiss.
All of that said, I liked Author Kullman’s writing enough that I will read more of work.
I vacillated between 4 and 5 stars. The story was good enough that I wasn’t easily distracted away from it which is unusual for me. My chief complaints are slow pacing through some parts of the story, and a hero and heroine who were a bit too perfect to be believable.
As to the perfections of the H/h, Rosa is all things wise, considerate, accommodating, and modest while the hero, Julian is the epitome of masculinity, thoughtfulness, and understanding. I guess I find such perfect characters a bit one dimensional and thus, would have appreciated a little more messiness in their characters. Perhaps a little more bitterness from Rosa over shabby treatment and a little more wary suspicion from Julian wouldn’t have gone amiss.
All of that said, I liked Author Kullman’s writing enough that I will read more of work.
June 27, 2024
It wasn’t bad, it was just missing a direction. It was three plots in one which all could have been their own books - the lord finally sees the attractive governess, a kidnapping and escape, and a summer retreat with a competitive widow trying to dig up dirt on the family friend. It never felt rushed, it even felt a little slow sometimes somehow.
it was all fairly tame (not clean, but absolutely not steamy) we get the HEA and then bam sex scene for an epilogue! It was unexpected and not in keeping with the rest of the book. (And of course the virgin orgasms within moments of him entering)
It’s an easy read and the main group of characters is likable enough. The best part was the author’s vocabulary and use of phrases I had to look up - not over blown grandiose words but phrases and slang I just had never read before.
it was all fairly tame (not clean, but absolutely not steamy) we get the HEA and then bam sex scene for an epilogue! It was unexpected and not in keeping with the rest of the book. (And of course the virgin orgasms within moments of him entering)
It’s an easy read and the main group of characters is likable enough. The best part was the author’s vocabulary and use of phrases I had to look up - not over blown grandiose words but phrases and slang I just had never read before.
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