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The Extraordinary Tale of the Rebellious Governess

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Changing the past is not an option, but you can always try to define the future...

The poisoned needle that threatens a little child’s life is the only clue for Miss Lucretia Brent to solve the puzzle of a deadly disease that comes upon the Dukedom of Breckenridge.

Sampson Claridge, the fraught Duke of Breckenridge has to manage not only his dukedom but also his little sister. Completely enamored by the new governess, he needs her help to find the way out of the impending tragedy that threatens his kin.

Sins of the past awake and they are all used for blackmail. As time runs short, Lucretia and Sampson have only a few hours to solve the puzzle or forever be gone.

379 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 16, 2019

554 people are currently reading
64 people want to read

About the author

Emma Linfield

113 books84 followers
Emma Linfield has always been passionate about historical romances. Ever fascinated with the world of Regency England and being utmost inspired by Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer’s work, she decided she wanted to write her own stories. Stories of love and tradition being mixed in the most appealing way for every hopeless romantic, much like herself.

Born and raised in Southern California, Emma Linfield has a degree in Creative Writing and English Literature, and she has been working as a freelance writer for the past 10 years. When she isn’t writing, Emma loves spending her time with her own prince charming and two beautiful children, all the while enjoying the famous Californian sun and ocean.

So, hop on to this exciting journey of Dukes, Earls and true love with Emma and find pleasure in the old fashioned world of Regency - an Era of pure romance, elegance and high fashion!

(Source: Official Website)

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5 stars
133 (50%)
4 stars
75 (28%)
3 stars
35 (13%)
2 stars
13 (4%)
1 star
7 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
Profile Image for Edwina " I LoveBooks" "Deb".
1,440 reviews17 followers
March 8, 2019
Miss Lucretia Brent has been raised in a Foundling Hospital since she was and infant. She is now 20 and has been hired to be the Governess for the 10 year old sister Henrietta of Sampson Claridge, Duke of Breckenridge.

Early on in the story there are strange harmful deadly incidents that happen to Sampson and his young sister Henrietta. Soon it becomes apparent that someone is trying hard to murder them. But for what reason? No one can seem to figure out. I had two suspects from the beginning and one of them turned out to be the murderer.

My problem with the story is there is no romance whatsoever between Lucretia and Sampson two kisse does not make a romance. As they worked together to solve the identity of the murderer they become friends. I would have liked to see at least two sexual love scenes between them. Some courting and outings together. A little heavy petting something sensual to tie them together romantically.

I also, got sick and tired of reading the world "Curtsey" every other sentence was Lucretia or some servant curtsying and bowing. I wonder if there knees didn't give out. I know this was added to bring up the word count for the author Ms. Linfield. But it distracted from the story. The other overly used word was "Said", This just shows the writer of the story is not a real author. The other problem I had with the story was Henriette putting her hands on her hips. No young girl or lady of the Peeridge would act in this manner. She was either bossing her brother around or crying about something. She had no real personality development in the story other then being a target for murderer.

THIS STORY IS FOR READERS WHO LIKE CLEAN SWEET STORYLINES WITHOUT ANY TYPE OF ROMANCE!!
Profile Image for Elizabeth Connor.
1,472 reviews40 followers
February 21, 2019
This was an unusual story of Lucretia, a young woman raised in an orphanage, who is requested as a governess by Sampson for his younger sister Henrietta. The reader learns a bit about orphanages in historical England, and can be thankful to have never lived in one of those places. It's a story of intrigue and the race to discover the identity of a would-be murderer, and Lucretia is shown to be a particularly brave and intelligent heroine - the best kind. Although the villain is not a huge secret, there is still an element of surprise and a need to know why. There is also some humor thrown in, particularly in this conversation between Sampson and his steward James:
“This is her suggestion?” James asked, his brow raised. “Why, if that’s the case, your children might actually be born with some intelligence.”
Sampson scowled. “I should have you whipped for such insolence.”
“Every man must do what he must,” James replied easily, unconcerned.
Overall, it was a great book and I'd recommend it.
Profile Image for Joan.
2,209 reviews
Read
February 27, 2019
The formatting (double spaces between paragraphs and no indents) made this too frustrating to read and I am always left with a sneaking suspicion that this 'extra space' is done to add pages to a KU book. I dnf'd at 2% when I came to one page which consisted of the following:


"None."


"When must I leave?"


Mrs. Marsh glanced at the letter. "His Grace expects you in six days."


"Am I dismissed, Mrs. Marsh?"


"Not yet."


Folding her hands once more, the matron ---


The gaps made it impossible for the story to 'flow'. I was constantly being brought out of the story because each new paragraph seemed to foretell a new scene or pov.
Profile Image for Elsbeth.
838 reviews
February 25, 2019
This governess is not really rebellious, but rather very courageous. She would give her life for her pupil. And, yes, her pupil is in danger. As is the duke. Maybe a life in a London orphanage was less dangerous. But Luce is strong and loyal.
Great story! It kept me on the edge of my chair throughout the book. I couldn't put it down!
148 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2019
A lovely and delightful novel how a girl from a foundling home grows to become a governess and then falls in love with a Duke to become his Duchess. There was adventure, loyalty, suspense,, grief, mistrust, betrayal to the Duke by his friend/brother, fighting, murder, finally love and then marriage.
It is a well written novel and kept you in suspense while you didn't want to put the book down. However, as you read, there were many unanswered questions that kept popping into your head as to who was doing it????
I loved the adventure of trying to figure it all out before the end of the novel and low and behold I was on the right tract.
Great writing, great story and I loved it!!!!!!
Profile Image for Space Cowgirl.
4,133 reviews145 followers
November 5, 2019
Lucretia💃 Get Your 🔫Gun!

Regency Era Romance and Suspense/Murder Mystery.

Sampson🐺, the Duke of Breckenridge, lives on a large estate in the country, far from London. He raises extremely well bred horses🐎, besides being wealthy. His mother dies, leaving him to raise Henrietta👸, his ten year old sister. He hires Luce💃, a well educated orphan from a London orphanage to be Henrietta's governess.

After her arrival, all kinds of things begin to go wrong! Someone is trying to kill him and his sister! They set 🔥fire to the barn, attempting to kill his prize horses🐎🐎.

Luce💃 is quickly cleared of wrongdoing, but it seems like it must be one of his servants or someone who knows his estate well who is committing the crimes.

ARC Received from Bookfunnel⛅
I also got the book with KU.

The wrongdoing escalates as the book races along. I was intrigued by the crimes and of the increasing emotional ties that Sampson and Luce share. I really enjoyed this mystery romance.
Profile Image for Emma.
2,864 reviews39 followers
November 9, 2019
If you like regency fiction than this is the perfect book. I enjoyed reading this clean story. Although it was a little silly at times, but I did not care as such is fiction. The storyline: someone is trying to murder the Sampson Claridge, the Duke of Breckenridge and his ten-year-old sister Henrietta. Why? No one had a clue. There were several clever attempts at murdering them and destroying his property and poisoning his staff. Sampson had hired a governess from the Foundling Hospital in London. Miss Lucretia Brent grew up from a babe there. She currently worked as staff and as governess to the children. When given the assignment she did not want it. The only home, family and life she had was at the hospital. Lucretia was not given a choice she was to go. Scared, alone, afraid she arrived at Breckenridge. Henrietta immediately hated her. Lucretia was a unique woman. Despite her fears she carried a silent strong confidence. She was familiar with dealing with children like Henrietta and soon gained her as a new friend. After she arrived the murderous occurrences began. If you like a story with bite, resolve and grit, you will enjoy reading this. The enemy was certainly creative in the ways he/she was attempting to get to the duke. The reactions of Lucretia, Henrietta and Sampson were vividly realistic. Lucretia was the heroine to beat all heroines. Lucky this is fiction and for entertainment otherwise she would be unrealistic. She had the three B's. Brains, Beauty and Brawn. She was perfect. She had many admirable characteristics. She was focused, dedicated, intelligent, knowledgeable, dedicated and loyal. She was deuce good at deductive reasoning. At times it was a struggle but she did not let her feelings stop her from doing what was right. Henrietta was a child grieving the loss of a mother and father. All she now had was her older brother Sampson. She resisted Lucretia at first but her need for companionship was greater than her defiance. She is bright and studious. She just needed guidance, instruction and love. In character she is a lovely child. Sampson is a fair, good and kind duke to his staff and tenants. He is blessed with a knowledge of good horseflesh and has the best breeding stock in all of England. He is wise and has earned his place at the side of the Prince Regent. He has two close friends that he grew up with. Oliver Fortescue, the Sixth Earl of Egerton and George Carter, the Third Baron of Gillinghamshire. The three friends went everywhere together and spent most of their time with Sampson. Henrietta was out walking one day when George came upon her. George did not treat her with respect and manhandled her. She slapped him. He became enraged and went away. That was not the end of it. All throughout the story George for some reason despised Lucretia and she knew not why. I had my suspicion as to who the villain was but the motive, the why was never clear until the very end and was it a shocker! I never suspected the reason for all the mayhem. A very good book and I do recommend it. I received an Advanced Readers Copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Sharon.
1,049 reviews2 followers
February 21, 2019
Miss Lucretia Brent was raised at the foundling hospital in London, when her parents died when she was a baby. That was the only home she ever knew. When got old enough she began helping with the younger children. She was dismayed when she learned she had to leave to become a governess. Sampson Claridge, the Duke of Breckenridge is left to raise his 10 year old sister, Henrietta, when their mother passes away. So he decides to hire a governess. But his sister is upset, thinking the governess would try try to take her mother's place and she was determined to hate her new governess on sight. After her arrival Lucretia manages to befriend the little girl. One day when Henrietta was outside with her pony, Lucretia sees a strange man aiming a gun at Henrietta. Lucretia manages to save the little girl only to be shot herself. That is just one of the many strange occurrences be falling the the Duke's household. Who was trying to harm Lucretia' s employer and members of his household? Can Lucretia discover who is behind this before it's too late? What is with the attraction Lucretia is beginning to have for her employer? Can Lucretia find love and happiness? This book is full of mystery along with lots of twists and turns. I enjoyed the story of Lucretia, Sampson and Henrietta. There is never a dull moment with this book. Even though I received a copy of this book, it in no way influenced my opinion.
Profile Image for Candy Briggs.
649 reviews23 followers
February 24, 2019
Lucretia Brent is an orphan and has been at the orphange since she was a baby. Now at twenty she is heading for a position as a governess in Gloucestershire. Her employer is Sampson Claridge, the Duke of Breckenridge, and her student is his sister, Henietta. Since both their parents were dead, she became his ward and he loved her desperately. He had been accused of spoiling her and his staff but he didn't care. Right after Luce came , bad things started to happen. The barn caught fire,His horse was poisioned and died, and various other things. The whole manor was afraid.
I loved the story, one of my favorite parts was when she was getting the children at the orphange ready to go down to breakfast. Little Rose being the smallest in stature was cared for by Luce and she had a discussion with Rose about her thumb in her mouth and she was a big girl now. People seemed to respect and love her. At the manor she was able to help and did. She liked being useful. The duke had Priny's ear and often advised him. This was a very well writen tale of love, greed, and jealousy. There are some twists that will surprise you while keeping you interested in the book. The characters are amazing and so life like. I most definitely recommend this book. It is a clean tale and anyone can read it. It is so exciting.
634 reviews
February 21, 2019
As an orphan, Lucretia was raised and educated in an orphanage, and is sent away to begin a life as a governess to a little girl whose own parents have died. Lady Henrietta is ten and is initially resistant to the idea of a governess, but through kindness and caring, Lucretia wins her over.
Shortly after Lucretia arrives, a series of “accidents” begins happening, which end by threatening the very lives of the Duke and Lady Henrietta. Lucretia does come under some scrutiny initially, but soon it is clear that she, too, is now a target, as she has thwarted several of the attacks. Who would want the Duke and Lady Henrietta dead? Who would benefit? The only known relative who might stand to inherit is sought, and it is confirmed that he is not involved. Traps are laid and the perpetrator of the deeds is caught-only to find that he is a hired assassin, but hired by whom? And why?
The story reader keeps the reader eagerly reading, as all the twists and turns as the attempts on lives occur. The man hiring the assassin is hard to figure out, but at the end his identity is revealed—a shock to all. The story is clean, and the characters likeable. There is a HEA ending that also solves all the puzzles.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,177 reviews71 followers
February 21, 2019
ONE INCREDIBLE EXPERIENCE!!!
OMG! Wow! Man, talk about one action packed, fast paced, heart pounding, pulse racing, page turning bombshell that captivates from the start. All the ups and downs, ins and outs, along with a few glitches and grinds make for an unpredictable experience. Talk about some crazy events but this one really got to me. Emma totally nailed this bad boy with such realism it rocked my world. Her characters and scenes are so realistic and believable. She writes with such passion that weaved into every page throughout the entirety. All the drama and suspense keeps you focused on the pages and frozen to your seat waiting for the next shoe to drop. She uses such graphically detailed descriptions it really pulls this little treasure together beautifully. Emma did a remarkable job bringing this read to life. Fantastic job Emma, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Profile Image for Crazychriss889.
1,498 reviews10 followers
April 18, 2019
Liked this one!!

Awesome characters with a heroine who isn't the damsel in distress but a woman who takes charge (most of the time), a woman who has a pistol (who-hoo) and a Duke who cares about his estate and the people in his employ.
Unfortunately, we never see him make everything up to his little sister whom he rejects a bit too often.

The plot was interesting but also a bit predictable after a while. Was a bit tedious after some time as there is no real courtship between the MCs and as the crime aspect is more in focus than character development.

One aspect I wasn't so fond of: the wedding scene. Historically inaccurate with a wayyyy too modern ceremony, a white gown and a lot of applause at the end. Wasn't necessary, I think.
84 reviews
February 18, 2019
I received this book as an ARC copy from the author and I am voluntarily leaving my review.
What an amazing story! I absolutely loved it! It's fast paced and action packed, very well-written with wonderful, engaging characters. I couldn't put it down, wondering what was going to happen next. Even with all the drama and action going on, however, it is still a sweet and gentle love story, and I'm so glad it had such a happy ending. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, as I always look forward to reading all Emma's books. As I've said before, Bravo, Emma, for yet another brilliant success in writing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Laila Viking.
4,090 reviews30 followers
February 20, 2019
A very well written story with a nice storyline and plot. I liked the mix of mystery, drama, action, romance, heartwarm, sweetness, protectiveness, emotions and twists. Absolutely likeable characters who are well defined and described. They develop nicely through the story. A story that flows well of the pages.
It is an entertaining and captivating read. It caught me right from the beginning because of the reader is thrown right into the drama. A story that was writing in a style that kept me on the edge just wanting to know what happened next. Amazing use of words.
I liked it a lot and can only recommend it to others who likes to read a romance with a mystery mixed in.
Profile Image for David.
38 reviews
February 22, 2019
What a strong person Lucretia turns out to be! She grows from a scared
orphan on her way to her first job and the first time out of London into a
smart, quick acting, brave lady. I thoroughly enjoyed watching her grow in
character to become not only a beauty, but a smart and strong person with a
love for those she cares about that supersedes her fears; that is a true
heroine. Once I started, I read until I had to get some sleep and finished
the story the next night. I highly recommend this novel. I received a free
review copy of the book and am voluntarily leaving my honest review
1,613 reviews19 followers
February 21, 2019
"The Extraordinary Tale of the Rebellious Governess"
by Emma Linfield
A historical romance with a core of suspense. Will you identify the villain early or late in the story ... or someplace in between? (My early on primary suspect was indeed the villain of this piece.) I think this is a fun light read with enough suspense to keep you turning the pages. I truly enjoyed my time with the characters that peopled this story. I received the ARC of this story as a free gift from the author.. This review is voluntary and expresses my personal point of view.
Profile Image for Wendy Tavenner.
1,331 reviews12 followers
February 21, 2019
Loved the book! Lucretia (Luce) goes from orphan to the Duke of Brenkeridge’s (Sampson) governess for his 10 year old sister. She never imagined she would throught a would be assassian who wants a little girl dead!

From his stables catching on fire to someone trying to kill him, he must find who wants his family harm! With Lucretia keeping his sister safe her life has been put in peril also! Time is running out as several of his servants are killed and poisoned!

The killer is closer than he ever expected!

A great book with a beautiful ending!
Profile Image for Sharon.
717 reviews7 followers
February 19, 2019
This story has it all. Suspense, danger, action, fear, courage, mystery, romance and twists. I didn't want to put the book down. Truly an awesome story.
Lucretia must make a big change in her life. How will she adjust to this change? Come along and find out.
This story is well written and exciting. Characters are fleshed out.
I voluntarily received a free copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
2,087 reviews13 followers
February 18, 2019
Delightful Regency tale full of twists, intrigue, suspense, danger, fear and romance. This well-written storyline kept me wanting to keep turning the pages, even when I needed to go to sleep. The characters are realistic with strong personalities and made you feel as though you were right there following their struggles. I enjoyed the ending very much and highly recommend this book.
948 reviews9 followers
February 21, 2019
I enjoyed this regency novel by Emma Linfield. The sweet and tender relationship between Lucretia and her charge Henrietta, and later between Lucretia and the Duke who hired Lucretia as a governess for his sister, were heartwarming. Lots of twists and turns and mystery over who was trying to kill them made it an enjoyable read. I highly recommend.
390 reviews2 followers
February 25, 2019
Another great read from Emma Linfield. It has everything that you'd want in a book--romance, adventure, suspense, etc. . Two people from very different lives come together to attempt to solve who wants the duke and his sister harmed. If you're interested in a good regency novel this one's for you. I received this ARC free in exchange for a voluntary honest review.
1,027 reviews4 followers
November 10, 2019
BEAUTIFUL STORYLINE

Although this is the second time I read this book .. It was just as good as first time. Don't remember leaving a review but just in case I didn't a great story and I often wondered if so many royal PEOPLE had so many hazard children how did they not end up marry siblings?
Profile Image for Courtney.
4,298 reviews
November 14, 2019
Excellent

I don't know if it's just because I had such a connection to a previously read book, or if I just am not in the mood for a novel such as this one- but I did not feel the pull to this novel that I normally do when I am reading a new novel. I will definitely have to try again later.
169 reviews2 followers
February 20, 2019
What a wonderful story! It was fraught with twists and turns, plus a bit of a mystery intertwined with a love story. It had wonderful character development and they fell in love over time, not instantaneous. Highly recommend!
1,332 reviews2 followers
March 8, 2019
❣️

This is a wonderful book! It has it all ,adventures, danger, intrigue, mysterious happenings.And it has a handsome Duke and a beautiful smart woman, who protects is sister , from coming to harm.And a love that won't be denied.I loved this story!
Thank you!❣️
Profile Image for LUAYNE.
1,953 reviews5 followers
March 28, 2019
3 stars

The story plot is exciting. The theme is nothing new. The villain was not a mystery. There are several grammar errors. Using text to speech reveals them easily. Extended epilogues is poor writing. The title does not fit the story.
Profile Image for Debra Everett.
58 reviews1 follower
February 19, 2019
You have to read it. It has it all danger, love, sadness, scandalous. It was one I couldn't out down. Love it. Read it. I'm glad I was given a chance to read this book for a honest review.
380 reviews3 followers
February 23, 2019
Excellent

Governess brought to teach the young sister of the Duke. Then the excitement begins. Attempted murder, horse theft, attacks.. love wins out. Excellent story.
Profile Image for Barbara.
19.3k reviews8 followers
February 23, 2019
Lucretia and Sampson's story is well written and a story I would say is a must read I enjoyed reading it. There is suspense, drama, twists turns, intrigue, and romance.
Profile Image for Sharon Wagner.
473 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2019
Five stars!

What drama,adventure,intriguing and so much devastating times. Emma Linfield is an excellent writer. Her storylines are so powerful and romantic.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews

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