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An Embroidered Spoon
Wales 1817
After refusing every offer of marriage that comes her way, Isolde Farrington is packed off to a spinster aunt in Wales until she comes to her senses.
Rhys Williams, there on business, is turning over his uncle’s choice of bride for him, and the last thing he needs is to fall for an impertinent miss like Izzy – who takes Rhys for a yokel.
Izzy’s new surroundings make her look at life, and Rhys, afresh. But when her father, Lord Bedley, discovers that the situation in Wales is not what he thought, and that Rhys is in trade, a gulf opens for a pair who’ve come to love each other. Will a difference in class keep them apart?
392 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 26, 2019
253 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Jayne Davis
20 books123 followersI was born in England, near the Welsh border, and lived in several places while I was growing up, including a spell in Singapore and in Malta. Malta was where I got hooked on historical romances - my parents rented a furnished house, and the owners had left most of their books there, including a whole set of Georgette Heyer novels.
Loving Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, I longed to write similar novels myself. I toyed with the idea several times over the years, but real life intervened and I've had several careers, including as a non-fiction author under another name. That wasn’t quite the writing career I had in mind…
So here I am, finally publishing my stories. I hope you enjoy them!
Loving Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, I longed to write similar novels myself. I toyed with the idea several times over the years, but real life intervened and I've had several careers, including as a non-fiction author under another name. That wasn’t quite the writing career I had in mind…
So here I am, finally publishing my stories. I hope you enjoy them!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 21, 2020
This Regency took place in Wales & England.
Izzy was punished for refusing a marriage proposal by
being sent to a maiden aunt in Wales, however Aunt
Eugenia Lloyd ended up married with 3 offspring. Izzy
met & clashed w/ wool merchant Rhys. Who was a good
friend/business partner of Lloyd, Izzy's uncle by marriage.
Spoiled to start, Izzy matured before our eyes.
I liked this couple. However Izzy's dad acted OTT w/his
emotions, & treated Izzy like a commodity instead of a
daughter, & the family of Rhys accepted the h too readily.
Instant acceptance. The ending felt too perfect.
Izzy was punished for refusing a marriage proposal by
being sent to a maiden aunt in Wales, however Aunt
Eugenia Lloyd ended up married with 3 offspring. Izzy
met & clashed w/ wool merchant Rhys. Who was a good
friend/business partner of Lloyd, Izzy's uncle by marriage.
Spoiled to start, Izzy matured before our eyes.
I liked this couple. However Izzy's dad acted OTT w/his
emotions, & treated Izzy like a commodity instead of a
daughter, & the family of Rhys accepted the h too readily.
Instant acceptance. The ending felt too perfect.
January 4, 2020
Lovely cross-class romance
Isolde is the daughter of a baronet and Rhys is a Welshman in trade. They meet through her aunt that lives in Wales with her husband and kids.
Izzy’s father was upset because she rejected yet another titled suitor and decided to sent her to a maiden aunt in Wales for her to realize what happens to unmarried females.
The problem is Izzy’s aunt was not the impoverished spinster her father believed, but the happy wife of a man in trade.
Instead of been convinced to accept any man her father wished for her, Izzy ended up realizing there is more to life than money and titles and that a working man has a different view on life that pleased her.
Rhys is so adorable it hurts. He is smart and affectionate and honorable. He just made it to my fictional-crushes list.
The story is very lovely, clean (some indirect or veiled references to sex) and romantic.
Isolde is the daughter of a baronet and Rhys is a Welshman in trade. They meet through her aunt that lives in Wales with her husband and kids.
Izzy’s father was upset because she rejected yet another titled suitor and decided to sent her to a maiden aunt in Wales for her to realize what happens to unmarried females.
The problem is Izzy’s aunt was not the impoverished spinster her father believed, but the happy wife of a man in trade.
Instead of been convinced to accept any man her father wished for her, Izzy ended up realizing there is more to life than money and titles and that a working man has a different view on life that pleased her.
Rhys is so adorable it hurts. He is smart and affectionate and honorable. He just made it to my fictional-crushes list.
The story is very lovely, clean (some indirect or veiled references to sex) and romantic.
October 25, 2019
4.5 stars
I did like the characters of Isolde and Rhys, Isolde (Izzy) was certainly determined to live her life as she wanted. Her dictatorial father wanted her to marry a titled gentleman but she wanted to marry someone she loved. Having been banished to Wales, and an initial bad start, the time in Wales opened her eyes to what was happening in the wider world. It also brought her in touch with working class people. Rhys was an honourable man who was trying to help others make a living as well as himself. Although Izzy and Rhys had an unfortunate start, they began to look at each other in a different light. There are a number of events that get in their way but Izzy is very resourceful. I loved the connection with the meaning of the Welsh love wooden spoons. This was a very entertaining read. It moved along at a good pace and had a satisfying end.
I did like the characters of Isolde and Rhys, Isolde (Izzy) was certainly determined to live her life as she wanted. Her dictatorial father wanted her to marry a titled gentleman but she wanted to marry someone she loved. Having been banished to Wales, and an initial bad start, the time in Wales opened her eyes to what was happening in the wider world. It also brought her in touch with working class people. Rhys was an honourable man who was trying to help others make a living as well as himself. Although Izzy and Rhys had an unfortunate start, they began to look at each other in a different light. There are a number of events that get in their way but Izzy is very resourceful. I loved the connection with the meaning of the Welsh love wooden spoons. This was a very entertaining read. It moved along at a good pace and had a satisfying end.
June 19, 2021
Un cucchiaio intagliato è un bellissimo romanzo storico che possiede tutti quegli elementi che cerco in una lettura come questa. La trama ha una promettente base di partenza, impreziosita dalla cultura e dalle tradizioni gallesi. I due protagonisti mi sono piaciuti tantissimo anche perché l’autrice ha saputo caratterizzarli in modo pressoché perfetto.
Isolde, o più semplicemente Izzy, è una giovane donna alla sua terza stagione. Ha già rifiutato diverse proposte di matrimonio perché tutti gli uomini che il padre e la madre approvano non sono adatti a lei. La vita a Londra per Izzy è molto noiosa, inoltre non sopporta dover sempre fare e dire ciò che gli altri le dicono. Desidera sposarsi, certo, ma vorrebbe che fosse per amore e con un uomo scelto da lei. Il viaggio in Galles le aprirà gli occhi su molti aspetti, inizierà a vedere il mondo diversamente e diventerà anche più consapevole di ciò che desidera davvero. L’incontro con Rhys Williams, un commerciante in affari con il marito della zia, rappresenterà la chiave di svolta per lei. Il carattere di Izzy mi è molto piaciuto perché si dimostra una giovane molto sveglia e curiosa e non la ragazza viziata e snob che dava l’impressione di essere.
Rhys Williams è un personaggio bellissimo, ha combattuto per il proprio paese durante le guerre napoleoniche poi, a seguito della morte del padre, è dovuto tornare in patria per gestire gli affari di famiglia. Ed è proprio grazie alla sua collaborazione con Huw Lloyd, marito della zia di Izzy, che il giovane commerciante conosce Isolde. Più impara a conoscere Lizzy, più capisce che lei potrebbe essere la persona giusta con cui condividere la vita. Nel corso della storia Rhys si dimostra un uomo deciso ma giusto e disposto a fare qualsiasi cosa pur di prendere in moglie Izzy.
Il loro rapporto è un crescendo di emozioni e sensazioni, un rapporto che evolve nel tempo ed entrambi dovranno unire i loro sforzi per superare gli ostacoli che la vita gli riserva. Le differenze sociali, all’epoca, non erano una questione facilmente risolvibile e ho apprezzato la piega che ha preso la trama a un certo punto.
Anche i personaggi secondari mi sono piaciuti moltissimo, specialmente Genie la zia di Izzy e Viv la sorella minore della protagonista.
A colpirmi moltissimo è stata l’evoluzione della protagonista, nel corso dei capitoli, infatti, Izzy è cambiata tantissimo, diventando più matura e molto più consapevole di se stessa. Ho adorato la caparbietà con cui ha cercato di convolare a nozze con Rhys, nonostante i timori e le insicurezze.
Un altro aspetto che ho apprezzato tantissimo è la presenza della cultura e delle tradizioni gallesi, oltre che i paesaggi così diversi rispetto a quelli inglesi. Izzy compie un viaggio sia fisico sia spirituale e accompagnarla in questo viaggio mi è piaciuto tantissimo.
Adoro lo stile di scrittura di Jayne Davis, la sua penna è fluida, pulita, ricca di descrizioni ambientali che rendono la lettura ancora più affascinante, inoltre è stata molto attenta a esaltare l’evoluzione sentimentale dei due protagonisti.
La narrazione in terza persona è la mia preferita nel genere storico, il ritmo narrativo, inoltre, è molto fluido e veloce, una volta iniziato a leggere non sono più riuscita a smettere. Sono tantissimi i passaggi che mi sono piaciuti molto e che mi hanno emozionato. Probabilmente a fare la differenza è la caparbietà e la positività sia di Rhys sia di Izzy.
Recensione completa: https://virtualkaty.blogspot.com/2021...
Isolde, o più semplicemente Izzy, è una giovane donna alla sua terza stagione. Ha già rifiutato diverse proposte di matrimonio perché tutti gli uomini che il padre e la madre approvano non sono adatti a lei. La vita a Londra per Izzy è molto noiosa, inoltre non sopporta dover sempre fare e dire ciò che gli altri le dicono. Desidera sposarsi, certo, ma vorrebbe che fosse per amore e con un uomo scelto da lei. Il viaggio in Galles le aprirà gli occhi su molti aspetti, inizierà a vedere il mondo diversamente e diventerà anche più consapevole di ciò che desidera davvero. L’incontro con Rhys Williams, un commerciante in affari con il marito della zia, rappresenterà la chiave di svolta per lei. Il carattere di Izzy mi è molto piaciuto perché si dimostra una giovane molto sveglia e curiosa e non la ragazza viziata e snob che dava l’impressione di essere.
Rhys Williams è un personaggio bellissimo, ha combattuto per il proprio paese durante le guerre napoleoniche poi, a seguito della morte del padre, è dovuto tornare in patria per gestire gli affari di famiglia. Ed è proprio grazie alla sua collaborazione con Huw Lloyd, marito della zia di Izzy, che il giovane commerciante conosce Isolde. Più impara a conoscere Lizzy, più capisce che lei potrebbe essere la persona giusta con cui condividere la vita. Nel corso della storia Rhys si dimostra un uomo deciso ma giusto e disposto a fare qualsiasi cosa pur di prendere in moglie Izzy.
Il loro rapporto è un crescendo di emozioni e sensazioni, un rapporto che evolve nel tempo ed entrambi dovranno unire i loro sforzi per superare gli ostacoli che la vita gli riserva. Le differenze sociali, all’epoca, non erano una questione facilmente risolvibile e ho apprezzato la piega che ha preso la trama a un certo punto.
Anche i personaggi secondari mi sono piaciuti moltissimo, specialmente Genie la zia di Izzy e Viv la sorella minore della protagonista.
A colpirmi moltissimo è stata l’evoluzione della protagonista, nel corso dei capitoli, infatti, Izzy è cambiata tantissimo, diventando più matura e molto più consapevole di se stessa. Ho adorato la caparbietà con cui ha cercato di convolare a nozze con Rhys, nonostante i timori e le insicurezze.
Un altro aspetto che ho apprezzato tantissimo è la presenza della cultura e delle tradizioni gallesi, oltre che i paesaggi così diversi rispetto a quelli inglesi. Izzy compie un viaggio sia fisico sia spirituale e accompagnarla in questo viaggio mi è piaciuto tantissimo.
Adoro lo stile di scrittura di Jayne Davis, la sua penna è fluida, pulita, ricca di descrizioni ambientali che rendono la lettura ancora più affascinante, inoltre è stata molto attenta a esaltare l’evoluzione sentimentale dei due protagonisti.
La narrazione in terza persona è la mia preferita nel genere storico, il ritmo narrativo, inoltre, è molto fluido e veloce, una volta iniziato a leggere non sono più riuscita a smettere. Sono tantissimi i passaggi che mi sono piaciuti molto e che mi hanno emozionato. Probabilmente a fare la differenza è la caparbietà e la positività sia di Rhys sia di Izzy.
Recensione completa: https://virtualkaty.blogspot.com/2021...
October 24, 2022
Galles, luglio 1817. Miss Isolde Farrington, detta Izzy, è stata mandata dal padre a casa della zia Eugenia, una donna nubile e con pochi mezzi. Lo scopo di Lord Bedley è quello di far conoscere alla figlia le privazioni cui andrebbe incontro se rimanesse zitella. Izzy, infatti, non vuole che siano gli uomini a decidere cosa deve fare e cosa deve pensare, e per questo continua a rifiutare tutti i suoi corteggiatori. Tuttavia, giunta a destinazione, scopre che la zia Genie si è sposata con un avvocato e lo ha tenuto nascosto al fratello che sicuramente non avrebbe approvato. In casa degli zii, inoltre incontra Rhis Williams, un giovane e ricco commerciante di lana col quale inizialmente si scontra a causa del proprio carattere orgoglioso. Nel corso della storia assisteremo al cambiamento di Izzy, che da viziata aristocratica si trasforma in una giovane donna consapevole di ciò che vuole. Capace anche di andare contro il volere di suo padre, che mai avrebbe approvato l'unione con un esponente di una classe sociale inferiore. Durante la lettura ci accompagna la leggenda gallese del cucchiaio intagliato che aggiunge alla storia un delicato tocco di romanticismo.
Mi è piaciuta molto anche la prefazione della traduttrice, Lucia Paltera, che mi ha ricordato quanto il loro lavoro sia fondamentale per noi lettori.
Mi è piaciuta molto anche la prefazione della traduttrice, Lucia Paltera, che mi ha ricordato quanto il loro lavoro sia fondamentale per noi lettori.
October 4, 2020
This regency romance deals with class disparity. The heroine, Izzy, is a baron's daughter, a spoiled aristocratic beauty from London. After three unsuccessful seasons on the marriage mart, her father banishes her to Wales to live with her impoverished aunt, as a punishment for rejecting every offer of marriage from his selection of titled suitors. Izzy isn't openly defiant, but she wants to marry a man she likes. She wants to make choices of her own, and she goes about her goals in a quiet and somewhat sneaky manner - the only way available to the restricted unmarried females of the high ton. I totally rooted for her.
The hero, Rhys, is a rich man in trade, a mill owner. Rhys and Izzy's romance seems doomed from the start, but after a series of set-backs, the HEA rolls in, right on schedule.
Nothing original in this story, but it was an enjoyable novel all the same.
The hero, Rhys, is a rich man in trade, a mill owner. Rhys and Izzy's romance seems doomed from the start, but after a series of set-backs, the HEA rolls in, right on schedule.
Nothing original in this story, but it was an enjoyable novel all the same.
April 13, 2020
"I find myself wishing to kiss you before I leave…"
Rhys Williams knew that he had no right to ask, but he could not leave without knowing if his feelings were returned. If they are, then there is nothing he would not do for Miss Isolde Farrington.
Isolde knew that she could never marry Rhys, but he was the only man who lit her up from the inside. He is the only man whom she desires to be with. Her father would not approve, but his approval did not seem to matter as she stared into the eyes of the man she was falling in love with...
From a cold and heartless banishment to Wales to the discovery of true love in the most unexpected of places, An Embroidered Spoon by Jayne Davis is what Regency Romances are all about.
Davis has presented her readers with a richly detailed and emotionally charged story that is as enthralling as it is entertaining. This is the kind of novel that once started is near on impossible to put down. It is comfortingly familiar yet as fresh and vibrant as a summer's day. With larger than life characters and an utterly beguiling plot, An Embroidered Spoon was everything I had hoped it would be, and then some.
Isolde is a woman of quick wit and a gentle disposition. However, when we first meet her, Isolde comes across as rather spoilt, arrogant and rude. However, her situation is a desperate one. Her parents expect her to marry well — they are too caught up in their quest for titles, wealth and position to take any notice of Isolde's wants and preference. For them, a good marriage is one that is based on companionship — love is not mentioned at all. But, that is not enough for Isolde. She wants everything or nothing. Her initial prejudice of Rhys, because of his seemingly lowly status, demonstrates the ignorance of the aristocracy. However, Isolde is also a very thoughtful woman and one who is willing to admit when she is wrong. Isolde is not afraid to laugh at herself, apologise for any mistakes she has made, and unlike some, she will do her very best not to repeat them. Her relationship with Rhys, a man who her father would not approve of, could be seen initially as a sort of rebellion against her parents. As the novel progresses, it becomes apparent that Isolde has fallen for Rhys, and she knows he can offer her something far more important than titles and financial stability.
Isolde was a character that I came to like very much as this novel progressed. Her dealing with the rather odious Lord Ordsall brings much humour to this story, although it is humour born out of desperation. Lord Ordsall's depiction also demonstrated the lengths a parent would go to secure what was considered a good marriage. When Isolde speaks of how Lord Ordsall forced himself on her and kissed her, Lord Bedley's, Isolde's father, immediate response was that if he had known he would have forced Lord Ordsall to marry her. He did not consider his daughter's feelings of violation at all, which I think demonstrated very clearly what it was like to be a member of the le bon ton in the 19th Century. Isolde feels trapped and who can blame her. No wonder she falls head-over-heels with Rhys who matches her not only in wit and humour but also stirs a desire which she had not felt for any other man. I thought Isolde's depiction was fabulous.
Rhys is a respectable man of trade, and because of this he really struggles with his attraction for Isolde. He knows that she is completely out of reach, and yet he cannot find the strength to stop their relationship from developing. Like Isolde, he has his own responsibilities. The story is set just after the Napoleonic war, and as a mill owner, Rhys is very conscious of the fact that times are changing. The cottage industries will be absorbed into the large mills sooner rather than later. Progress is inevitable, particularly if he wants to turn a profit, but at the same time, he is concerned for the future of the people whom his expansion will put out of work. I thought Rhys' depiction was wonderful. He is a very caring man who isn't cowed by titles or wealth, and yet he will fight for what he believes in, and he believes in his love for Isolde. Rhys is a very dashing hero with all the qualities one would expect a protagonist to have in a Regency Romance.
Secrecy and concealment are often an important theme that runs through Regency Romances, and An Embroidered Spoon is no exception to this rule. Isolde's spinster aunt, who she is banished to live with because she refuses to marry the great Lord Ordsall, isn't a spinster at all. But she is in fact married with three children. Eugenia has chosen to live the life she wanted and to marry the man of her choice without her family's consent. Eugenia has weighed heavily the merits and disadvantages of keeping her marriage a secret from her family, for she knows how they will react to her having married beneath her. If anything, Eugenia shows Isolde that despite being a woman, she can choose her own destiny. However, that decision will have consequences, and she has to be ready to sacrifice everything to be with the man she loves. Eugenia demonstrates, through her own successful and happy marriage, that sometimes the most painful of sacrifices are ultimately worth it.
As the would-be lovers become cruelly separated the Welsh Love Spoon takes on a symbolic significance as a token of affection, and it becomes a secretly embroidered message that demonstrates the love and commitment of the young protagonists. I thought this was an inspired idea on Davis' part, not to mention, incredibly romantic.
The historical setting is as rich and descriptive as a Jane Austen novel. The wildness of the Welsh countryside to the grandeur of the ballroom, are all described with a lavish sense of time and place. Davis' understanding of the industrial changes of this era also shone wonderfully through the narrative, as did her understanding of how society expected her aristocratic daughters to behave.
If you are looking for your next great Regency Romance, then look no further than An Embroidered Spoon by Jayne Davis. You won't be disappointed.
I Highly Recommend
Review by Mary Anne Yarde.
The Coffee Pot Book Club.
August 6, 2021
An engrossing and well~written creative take of the usual banal and predictable run~on~the~mill light historical Romances that this world's technology had monstrously enabled... but again, our gadgets filled world and easy access (to Free ebooks) also allow a reader to pick and choose. I chose this one as recommended by BookBuB and I am so glad that I did.
November 3, 2020
The writing is good and i like this author. However within the first few pages i found i did not like Isolde at all (spoiled, selfish, etc) and Rhys falls for a pretty face :( and was a fairly flat character. So this was a miss for me. And I'll admit i did a lot of skipping to the end.
January 14, 2020
The third full-length novel from this new author, and it’s another corker. I don’t think I’ve ever read a Regency romance set in Wales before, but Davis skilfully creates the backdrop and the array of characters, both the aristocratic and the not-quite-gentry.
Here’s the premise: Izzy Farrington, the daughter of a baron, is packed off to an impoverished spinster aunt in Wales to reflect upon her wilful refusal of several respectable offers of marriage, in the hope that her miserable surroundings will bring her to her senses. But Aunt Eugenia isn’t quite what she expected, and although she finds life very different in Wales, after some amusing mishaps, she begins to find much to interest her. One particular interest is Rhys Williams, a businessman who draws Izzy into his world of wool and sheep-breeding and all manner of intriguing subjects previously unknown to a gently brought up daughter of the aristocracy.
This part of the book is a delight, evoking a totally convincing corner of the Regency world (Wales is portrayed as a wonderfully romantic place, while also wet, wild and windswept!), and both Izzy’s reaction to her new situation, and the reactions of her new relations and friends are very believable. The story takes a more conventional twist when Izzy’s father, Lord Bedley, discovers that spinster Aunt Eugenia is actually married, and to a solicitor (the horror!), and whisks Izzy back to London to be respectably courted again.
But while this could have been a dull transition to conventional Regency tropes, the author gives the reader an unusual but brilliantly portrayed insight into the utterly stifling life of a young lady. Izzy is provided with every material comfort, and surrounded by friends and family who all (in their various ways) want the best for her, but she has no freedom whatsoever. Cut off from the man she was falling in love with, and not even sure yet of her own heart, she has no way to see him or even convey a message to him. She is chaperoned wherever she goes. The governess will report any untoward conversation with a stranger. The servants will be fired if they help her. Even her correspondence is opened by her father (and yes, this is completely true to the era). And, worst of all, she’s constantly pressured to accept one of the suitors her parents approve of. How she manages, despite all these restrictions, to avoid an unwanted betrothal, communicate with Rhys and decide her future for herself take up the rest of the book, and beautifully done it is too.
The minor characters are all wonderfully drawn, but the star of the show is Izzy herself, an intelligent and resourceful girl who starts off on completely the wrong foot in her new home, but quickly learns to adapt. Another wonderful read from Jayne Davis. Highly recommended. Five stars.
Here’s the premise: Izzy Farrington, the daughter of a baron, is packed off to an impoverished spinster aunt in Wales to reflect upon her wilful refusal of several respectable offers of marriage, in the hope that her miserable surroundings will bring her to her senses. But Aunt Eugenia isn’t quite what she expected, and although she finds life very different in Wales, after some amusing mishaps, she begins to find much to interest her. One particular interest is Rhys Williams, a businessman who draws Izzy into his world of wool and sheep-breeding and all manner of intriguing subjects previously unknown to a gently brought up daughter of the aristocracy.
This part of the book is a delight, evoking a totally convincing corner of the Regency world (Wales is portrayed as a wonderfully romantic place, while also wet, wild and windswept!), and both Izzy’s reaction to her new situation, and the reactions of her new relations and friends are very believable. The story takes a more conventional twist when Izzy’s father, Lord Bedley, discovers that spinster Aunt Eugenia is actually married, and to a solicitor (the horror!), and whisks Izzy back to London to be respectably courted again.
But while this could have been a dull transition to conventional Regency tropes, the author gives the reader an unusual but brilliantly portrayed insight into the utterly stifling life of a young lady. Izzy is provided with every material comfort, and surrounded by friends and family who all (in their various ways) want the best for her, but she has no freedom whatsoever. Cut off from the man she was falling in love with, and not even sure yet of her own heart, she has no way to see him or even convey a message to him. She is chaperoned wherever she goes. The governess will report any untoward conversation with a stranger. The servants will be fired if they help her. Even her correspondence is opened by her father (and yes, this is completely true to the era). And, worst of all, she’s constantly pressured to accept one of the suitors her parents approve of. How she manages, despite all these restrictions, to avoid an unwanted betrothal, communicate with Rhys and decide her future for herself take up the rest of the book, and beautifully done it is too.
The minor characters are all wonderfully drawn, but the star of the show is Izzy herself, an intelligent and resourceful girl who starts off on completely the wrong foot in her new home, but quickly learns to adapt. Another wonderful read from Jayne Davis. Highly recommended. Five stars.
October 29, 2019
Touching and tender tale of forbidden love
I loved this spicy but clean Regency romance between the Earl's eldest daughter and a wool merchant. If course the Earl is livid because his Isolde (Izzy) has refused her noble parent-approved suitors for three seasons now. Izzy is a spoiled and snobbish young beauty - because she's been raised as such. She is also a perversely independence-minded young woman who simply will not allow her parents, or their approved noble suitors for her hand, do her thinking for her. Her latest refusal sees her exiled to Wales, to the tiny cottage of her spinster Aunt Eugenia. But all is not as advertised. Aunt Genie, as rebellious and opinionated as Izzy, refused to let overbearing men run her life, and thus has been (GASP) happily married for years to a prosperous Welsh solicitor. Not her class, no, but exactly the man she wants. Izzy, with her Aunt's example, begins to learn how the real world works - especially how attraction between a woman and a man works. She meets and eventually makes friends with her relatives' family friend, Rhys. He's a wool merchant. She's a noble woman. They are attracted, but It's JUST NOT DONE!! But it is. With cleverness, subterfuge, unlikely allies, and the determination to have it their way, Rhys and Izzy foil the expectations of his uncle, her parents, the ton, and all other proponents of pomposity. Rhys and Izzy are so perfect together - they spark each others' courage, affection, and increasingly mature take on the world they live in. They are a couple to cheer for, and their calm insistence on true love over position and wealth makes them admirable. The story ends with an HEA not quite as expected, but better! I totally recommend this beautifully written, historically accurate and heartwarming love story.
I loved this spicy but clean Regency romance between the Earl's eldest daughter and a wool merchant. If course the Earl is livid because his Isolde (Izzy) has refused her noble parent-approved suitors for three seasons now. Izzy is a spoiled and snobbish young beauty - because she's been raised as such. She is also a perversely independence-minded young woman who simply will not allow her parents, or their approved noble suitors for her hand, do her thinking for her. Her latest refusal sees her exiled to Wales, to the tiny cottage of her spinster Aunt Eugenia. But all is not as advertised. Aunt Genie, as rebellious and opinionated as Izzy, refused to let overbearing men run her life, and thus has been (GASP) happily married for years to a prosperous Welsh solicitor. Not her class, no, but exactly the man she wants. Izzy, with her Aunt's example, begins to learn how the real world works - especially how attraction between a woman and a man works. She meets and eventually makes friends with her relatives' family friend, Rhys. He's a wool merchant. She's a noble woman. They are attracted, but It's JUST NOT DONE!! But it is. With cleverness, subterfuge, unlikely allies, and the determination to have it their way, Rhys and Izzy foil the expectations of his uncle, her parents, the ton, and all other proponents of pomposity. Rhys and Izzy are so perfect together - they spark each others' courage, affection, and increasingly mature take on the world they live in. They are a couple to cheer for, and their calm insistence on true love over position and wealth makes them admirable. The story ends with an HEA not quite as expected, but better! I totally recommend this beautifully written, historically accurate and heartwarming love story.
March 16, 2020
Did I like Isolde - Izzy - when I first met her? No, not much. She is spoilt, arrogant, has very few good manners -- in short, she is a petulant young miss who could do with a good talking too. Which is partly why her Papa has sent her off to the wilds of Wales. So, I didn't like her, but Ms Davis has written the character so convincingly that I found myself hooked. Izzy is the female equivalent of the 'bad boy hero'; She is an utter madam but you very quickly start rooting for her because you know that somewhere - somewhere - is a likeable person screaming to get out!
Wales, back in the 1800s is just as cold, wet, muddy and isolated as it can be today (even more so: no central heating or reliable transport back then!) Used to a life of comfort and luxury, it is not difficult to understand, and very soon sympathise with, Izzy's petulance.
Then she meets Rhys. I liked Rhys, but in the time-honoured way of the Romance Read, of course things for our heroine and hero go wrong. There are misunderstandings and obstacles - the path of true love never runs smoothly. Well not in the inclement climate of Wales,where the importance of the correct status is paramount, anyway.
Thus far, a typical run-of-the-mill Regency Romance.
But there is a big difference with this one: the characters are believable because they aren't perfect; we immediately become interested in them (and very soon change opinion about Izzy) because the author is clever enough to lure us into wanting to know what happens next and to care about these two young people.
An easy, delightful, read.
As for the connection of the spoon: you will have to read the book to find out its significance.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
Wales, back in the 1800s is just as cold, wet, muddy and isolated as it can be today (even more so: no central heating or reliable transport back then!) Used to a life of comfort and luxury, it is not difficult to understand, and very soon sympathise with, Izzy's petulance.
Then she meets Rhys. I liked Rhys, but in the time-honoured way of the Romance Read, of course things for our heroine and hero go wrong. There are misunderstandings and obstacles - the path of true love never runs smoothly. Well not in the inclement climate of Wales,where the importance of the correct status is paramount, anyway.
Thus far, a typical run-of-the-mill Regency Romance.
But there is a big difference with this one: the characters are believable because they aren't perfect; we immediately become interested in them (and very soon change opinion about Izzy) because the author is clever enough to lure us into wanting to know what happens next and to care about these two young people.
An easy, delightful, read.
As for the connection of the spoon: you will have to read the book to find out its significance.
Originally Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds
October 29, 2019
This lovely Regency novel takes place in both England and Wales; the latter location is generally absent in this genre and its inclusion here is a wonderful change.
The somewhat spoiled beauty Isolde Farrington is "banished" to her aunt's home in Wales for her stubborn refusal of several marriage proposals. It is apparent early on that her "punishment" is anything but. She quickly adapts to her situation and learns the importance of family and humility, and that titles and wealth do not equate to happiness.
Her first encounter with Rhys Williams is quite humorous. A *gasp* tradesman, Rhys takes Izzie's initial snobbery in stride. There are funny moments in this novel, such as when mulish Izzie falls in a creek. How she convinces Lord Ordsall to discontinue his suit by droning on about politics and embroidery thread is laugh-out-loud funny.
The characters are well-drawn and for the most part, wonderful. Wales is a common locale in Medieval novels; I read those as well, although the "ll" sound is so unnatural to me, and I've read it hundreds of times. The love spoon tradition is charming. The actual embroidered spoon of the title is a sweet, touching and ingenious gift.
Jayne Davis' prose is lovely with few grammatical errors. The banter is clever and witty. The Regency period is accurately portrayed. This book is also clean, a must for me. I look forward to more from this author. Her other two novels are quite good, as well.
The somewhat spoiled beauty Isolde Farrington is "banished" to her aunt's home in Wales for her stubborn refusal of several marriage proposals. It is apparent early on that her "punishment" is anything but. She quickly adapts to her situation and learns the importance of family and humility, and that titles and wealth do not equate to happiness.
Her first encounter with Rhys Williams is quite humorous. A *gasp* tradesman, Rhys takes Izzie's initial snobbery in stride. There are funny moments in this novel, such as when mulish Izzie falls in a creek. How she convinces Lord Ordsall to discontinue his suit by droning on about politics and embroidery thread is laugh-out-loud funny.
The characters are well-drawn and for the most part, wonderful. Wales is a common locale in Medieval novels; I read those as well, although the "ll" sound is so unnatural to me, and I've read it hundreds of times. The love spoon tradition is charming. The actual embroidered spoon of the title is a sweet, touching and ingenious gift.
Jayne Davis' prose is lovely with few grammatical errors. The banter is clever and witty. The Regency period is accurately portrayed. This book is also clean, a must for me. I look forward to more from this author. Her other two novels are quite good, as well.
July 16, 2023
Un cucchiaio intagliato è un romanzo di Jayne Davis, pubblicato in Italia dalla casa editrice Vintage editore. Siamo in piena epoca regency, post rivoluzione francese, restaurazione e dopo Napoleone.
Isolde Farrington ha poco più di vent’anni, è la figlia di un barone inglese che tenta di controllarne e deciderne la vita. Isolde, che si fa chiamare Izzy, ha alcune certezze e una di queste è che non vuole in alcun modo sposarsi per denaro, nè tanto meno diventare la moglie di un uomo scelto dal padre, che prenda le decisioni per lei e la comandi.
Così, dopo l’ennesimo rifiuto di prendere marito e adempiere al suo ruolo di brava figlia, il padre decide di punirla: andrà a vivere per un po’ di tempo a casa della zia Genie in Galles, la sorella ripudiata perchè anche lei non voleva assecondare il volere fraterno e paterno.
Lord Farrington è sicuro che in questo modo Izzy possa capire cosa vuol dire vivere in ristrettezze, senza domestici, ricchezze e abiti nuovi, e possa così mettere la testa a posto e comportarsi adeguatamente. Izzy parte per il Galles in carrozza con Miss Amberley, donna fidata e chaperon per il viaggio: quando arriva a Capel Bodfan incrocia il suo cammino con Rhys Williams, scambiandolo per un domestico.
Mentre attende l’arrivo della zia in una locanda viene colta da una sorpresa. Zia Genie è diventata Miss Lloyd, ha sposato un avvocato, abbassando quindi il suo rango nobiliare ad una classe sociale più bassa e vista in maniera nefasta dalla famiglia Farrington. Izzy segue zia Genie e pur rimanendo sorpresa dalla situazione, la accetta di buon grado e impara a conoscere una realtà completamente diversa dalla sua.
A casa degli zii reincontra Rhys Williams, scoprendo di aver equivocato l’uomo e di avere davanti un venditore di lana, con contatti con tutte le fattorie della zona, nonchè un caro amico degli zii.
Inizia così la nuova vita di Izzy, che comincia ad interessarsi a discorsi che non avrebbe mai considerato prima: le condizioni atmosferiche e le loro conseguenze sul bestiame, la povertà e le difficoltà economiche dei commercianti, allevatori ed agricoltori. Finalmente, per quanto molti discorsi inizialmente la annoino, si rende conto che il suo parere spesse volte viene richiesto e che può essere estremamente bello sapere che non tutti pensano che le donne debbano pensare solo alla moda e alle faccende femminili.
Durante il soggiorno presso gli zii conosce anche meglio Rhys Williams, iniziando ad esserne attratta. Rhys è un po’ più grande di Izzy, la sua è una famiglia facoltosa, ma di un livello nettamente inferiore all’aristocrazia inglese. Eppure Rhys rimane piacevolmente colpito da Izzy, dalla sua bellezza e dal suo caratterino determinato, testardo, dalla sua umiltà nel rendersi conto degli errori, dalla sua capacità di ridere di se stessa.
Ma presto arriva in Galles lord Farrington…
Un cucchiaio intagliato è una storia d’amore con un bel contesto storico e sociale, ben scritto, senza scossoni di trama inutili alla narrazione. Il titolo deriva dalla tradizione gallese del dono che viene fatto da un uomo alla sua amata, come promessa: un cucchiaio di legno intagliato a mano fa capire l’impegno e la possibilità dell’uomo di provvedere con le sue mani al sostentamento e alla vita della sua donna.
Isolde Farrington ha poco più di vent’anni, è la figlia di un barone inglese che tenta di controllarne e deciderne la vita. Isolde, che si fa chiamare Izzy, ha alcune certezze e una di queste è che non vuole in alcun modo sposarsi per denaro, nè tanto meno diventare la moglie di un uomo scelto dal padre, che prenda le decisioni per lei e la comandi.
Così, dopo l’ennesimo rifiuto di prendere marito e adempiere al suo ruolo di brava figlia, il padre decide di punirla: andrà a vivere per un po’ di tempo a casa della zia Genie in Galles, la sorella ripudiata perchè anche lei non voleva assecondare il volere fraterno e paterno.
Lord Farrington è sicuro che in questo modo Izzy possa capire cosa vuol dire vivere in ristrettezze, senza domestici, ricchezze e abiti nuovi, e possa così mettere la testa a posto e comportarsi adeguatamente. Izzy parte per il Galles in carrozza con Miss Amberley, donna fidata e chaperon per il viaggio: quando arriva a Capel Bodfan incrocia il suo cammino con Rhys Williams, scambiandolo per un domestico.
Mentre attende l’arrivo della zia in una locanda viene colta da una sorpresa. Zia Genie è diventata Miss Lloyd, ha sposato un avvocato, abbassando quindi il suo rango nobiliare ad una classe sociale più bassa e vista in maniera nefasta dalla famiglia Farrington. Izzy segue zia Genie e pur rimanendo sorpresa dalla situazione, la accetta di buon grado e impara a conoscere una realtà completamente diversa dalla sua.
A casa degli zii reincontra Rhys Williams, scoprendo di aver equivocato l’uomo e di avere davanti un venditore di lana, con contatti con tutte le fattorie della zona, nonchè un caro amico degli zii.
Inizia così la nuova vita di Izzy, che comincia ad interessarsi a discorsi che non avrebbe mai considerato prima: le condizioni atmosferiche e le loro conseguenze sul bestiame, la povertà e le difficoltà economiche dei commercianti, allevatori ed agricoltori. Finalmente, per quanto molti discorsi inizialmente la annoino, si rende conto che il suo parere spesse volte viene richiesto e che può essere estremamente bello sapere che non tutti pensano che le donne debbano pensare solo alla moda e alle faccende femminili.
Durante il soggiorno presso gli zii conosce anche meglio Rhys Williams, iniziando ad esserne attratta. Rhys è un po’ più grande di Izzy, la sua è una famiglia facoltosa, ma di un livello nettamente inferiore all’aristocrazia inglese. Eppure Rhys rimane piacevolmente colpito da Izzy, dalla sua bellezza e dal suo caratterino determinato, testardo, dalla sua umiltà nel rendersi conto degli errori, dalla sua capacità di ridere di se stessa.
Ma presto arriva in Galles lord Farrington…
Un cucchiaio intagliato è una storia d’amore con un bel contesto storico e sociale, ben scritto, senza scossoni di trama inutili alla narrazione. Il titolo deriva dalla tradizione gallese del dono che viene fatto da un uomo alla sua amata, come promessa: un cucchiaio di legno intagliato a mano fa capire l’impegno e la possibilità dell’uomo di provvedere con le sue mani al sostentamento e alla vita della sua donna.
February 3, 2020
Truly enjoyable book!
I find I bet much like Maybe Davis' writing style. It very clear and concise with solo characters and always a great storyline.
This story is about a young woman from a aristocratic family who has turned down several suitors approved by her overbearing father. Izzy has lived a life totally constrained by her father's opinion that women must be cared for by a man and have no opinion of their own. It is early 19th century and women were basically seen and not heard.
As Izzy has defied her father's wishes he had sent her to her aunt 's home in Wales as punishment as her aunt lives a very lower class life in a small village without society and with a minimum of servants. Izzy must adjust to reduced circumstances. She eventually meets a young man in the wool trade who, after much misunderstanding, she becomes interested. But as he is in trade, her father would never accept.
I hated how suppressed omen were, in general, during this era. Having to be raised as chattel and then be expected to be a brood made after marriage to a man not of your choosing seems so harsh. I can understand young women wanting to break away from such convention.
This is an interesting story of not only the unbelievable suppression of women, but the problems and barriers set against two people from different social background in love and The effects on their families. The romance is ardent and sweet .
A good historical romance....if there's a will there's a way.
I find I bet much like Maybe Davis' writing style. It very clear and concise with solo characters and always a great storyline.
This story is about a young woman from a aristocratic family who has turned down several suitors approved by her overbearing father. Izzy has lived a life totally constrained by her father's opinion that women must be cared for by a man and have no opinion of their own. It is early 19th century and women were basically seen and not heard.
As Izzy has defied her father's wishes he had sent her to her aunt 's home in Wales as punishment as her aunt lives a very lower class life in a small village without society and with a minimum of servants. Izzy must adjust to reduced circumstances. She eventually meets a young man in the wool trade who, after much misunderstanding, she becomes interested. But as he is in trade, her father would never accept.
I hated how suppressed omen were, in general, during this era. Having to be raised as chattel and then be expected to be a brood made after marriage to a man not of your choosing seems so harsh. I can understand young women wanting to break away from such convention.
This is an interesting story of not only the unbelievable suppression of women, but the problems and barriers set against two people from different social background in love and The effects on their families. The romance is ardent and sweet .
A good historical romance....if there's a will there's a way.
November 9, 2020
Entertaining
A well written, enjoyable story with a predictable plot and very little angst. Isolde Farrington, or Izzy, is a spoiled, rich twenty year old girl with an independent spirit, and an aversion to taking orders from anyone. After three seasons, her parents are pressuring her to get married, and banish her to an aunt's home in Wales so that she can experience what her life will be if she doesn't marry well. While in Wales she meets Rhys, a young man in trade, and they're attracted to each other. Izzy's parents, being from the higher social circles, cannot accept her friendship, let alone a romantic interest, with Rhys, and the battle begins.
This is a very "vanilla" story, in that circumstances occur pretty much exactly the way you can easily guess that they will occur, and it all happens rather quickly. Even though Izzy is an annoying brat to begin with, Rhys' attraction to her is immediate. Lip service is given to their differences in social status, but it's not enough of an issue to cause any hesitation. Minor obstacles arise to their relationship, and are all neatly disposed of.
The book is a pleasant way to pass a few hours, and the characters are engaging. The chemistry between Izzy and Rhys is not well developed, but I recommend this book for a light hearted tale.
A well written, enjoyable story with a predictable plot and very little angst. Isolde Farrington, or Izzy, is a spoiled, rich twenty year old girl with an independent spirit, and an aversion to taking orders from anyone. After three seasons, her parents are pressuring her to get married, and banish her to an aunt's home in Wales so that she can experience what her life will be if she doesn't marry well. While in Wales she meets Rhys, a young man in trade, and they're attracted to each other. Izzy's parents, being from the higher social circles, cannot accept her friendship, let alone a romantic interest, with Rhys, and the battle begins.
This is a very "vanilla" story, in that circumstances occur pretty much exactly the way you can easily guess that they will occur, and it all happens rather quickly. Even though Izzy is an annoying brat to begin with, Rhys' attraction to her is immediate. Lip service is given to their differences in social status, but it's not enough of an issue to cause any hesitation. Minor obstacles arise to their relationship, and are all neatly disposed of.
The book is a pleasant way to pass a few hours, and the characters are engaging. The chemistry between Izzy and Rhys is not well developed, but I recommend this book for a light hearted tale.
August 27, 2020
Good clean read
I love well written stories that are clean. This was an example of one. Not a lot of adventure but a very believable story with real characters that is developed well. Though I would prefer that the H and h would have taken a little longer to get to know one another. I think they had been around each other only a week. Though in reality in regency times that was common or at least so it seems in many regency books. But it would have been nice for them to at least have spent a month getting to know one another. And then possibly not rush so quickly to be married. Since she took her stand with her father they didn’t need to rush. But it’s not my story to write.
I very much enjoyed the book and would love to read more from this author.
I love well written stories that are clean. This was an example of one. Not a lot of adventure but a very believable story with real characters that is developed well. Though I would prefer that the H and h would have taken a little longer to get to know one another. I think they had been around each other only a week. Though in reality in regency times that was common or at least so it seems in many regency books. But it would have been nice for them to at least have spent a month getting to know one another. And then possibly not rush so quickly to be married. Since she took her stand with her father they didn’t need to rush. But it’s not my story to write.
I very much enjoyed the book and would love to read more from this author.
November 23, 2021
It was a sweet book, but I wasn't too invested in the couple? it felt very realistic in the sense of her father more or less making her choose a titled guy to be her husband and the minimum freedom she had, and then deciding to marry the first guy who was nice and had a nice chemistry with her, but I wasn't too convinced in them, needed more development, even her character had a change overnight.
Rhys looked like a nice guy but getting married and being in love after just a few conversations.... ahhh poor them.
Rhys looked like a nice guy but getting married and being in love after just a few conversations.... ahhh poor them.
October 6, 2022
Real
Jayne Davis has become one of my favorites. She takes her time creating a relationship. Dialogues are real and intelligent. I felt like there was a basis for their love not just lust. The allusions to the Welsh history, language, geography and agriculture were interesting. The heroine and hero were very likable and the beginning conflict was understandable and not overdone. The growth of the heroine was believable and realistic. There were several very good secondary characters as well.
Jayne Davis has become one of my favorites. She takes her time creating a relationship. Dialogues are real and intelligent. I felt like there was a basis for their love not just lust. The allusions to the Welsh history, language, geography and agriculture were interesting. The heroine and hero were very likable and the beginning conflict was understandable and not overdone. The growth of the heroine was believable and realistic. There were several very good secondary characters as well.
October 25, 2020
Well, this was OK. I liked that it took place in Wales, and that it has a glossary at the end to explain names and pronunciations. Characters were pretty good, mostly, the main one is Izzy, somehow not a great name for a heroine. Her travails didn’t last too long, and their resolution was kind of too pat. But it was not a bodice-ripper, always my fear when I read an historical romance-y book that isn’t written by Georgette!
February 22, 2022
A bit cringey at times, but at least I could listen to this with my kids around as it's very clean. The most the protagonists do is kiss. It was a nice palate cleanser of a read, very straightforward and to the point.
This wouldn't fit into the inspirational genre by any means, but if you like the romance aspects of the inspirational genre, you might like this. It's considered a Regency romance, but it also reminds me of Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South."
This wouldn't fit into the inspirational genre by any means, but if you like the romance aspects of the inspirational genre, you might like this. It's considered a Regency romance, but it also reminds me of Elizabeth Gaskell's "North and South."
June 6, 2020
Great Book
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it highly. I didn't check to see if there are any other books in a series continuing on with this story and highlighting the stories of the other characters in it, but if there are, I will be very very happy! Can't wait to read more from this author.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it highly. I didn't check to see if there are any other books in a series continuing on with this story and highlighting the stories of the other characters in it, but if there are, I will be very very happy! Can't wait to read more from this author.
July 31, 2021
Totally Absorbing
Jayne Davis pulls the reader into her story. The class and language differences begin an eye-opening experience for Isolde when she is sent to Wales as punishment for refusing to marry who her father picks out for her. I could hardly put this book down. Delightful Regency book.
Jayne Davis pulls the reader into her story. The class and language differences begin an eye-opening experience for Isolde when she is sent to Wales as punishment for refusing to marry who her father picks out for her. I could hardly put this book down. Delightful Regency book.
February 14, 2020
Kind of meh
It was cute, but boring in some spots. The Welsh aspects were interesting because I’ve never read a book that took place in Wales. However the Romance between Rhys and Izzy was lukewarm at best and the ending was pretty underwhelming.
It was cute, but boring in some spots. The Welsh aspects were interesting because I’ve never read a book that took place in Wales. However the Romance between Rhys and Izzy was lukewarm at best and the ending was pretty underwhelming.
October 6, 2021
Another good one!
Loved this light hearted romance, some of which set in Wales. The story line was interesting and I love how the heroine stands up for herself, but still desires a good relationship with her family even though they desire different things. It was well done!
Loved this light hearted romance, some of which set in Wales. The story line was interesting and I love how the heroine stands up for herself, but still desires a good relationship with her family even though they desire different things. It was well done!
January 9, 2023
Great characters
I love Jayne Davis books. She is wonderful at creating vivid scenes and making you feel the setting. I loved the characters. Both were smart and kind. I also loved seeing Izzy really grow and discover herself. It's a definitely great read.
I love Jayne Davis books. She is wonderful at creating vivid scenes and making you feel the setting. I loved the characters. Both were smart and kind. I also loved seeing Izzy really grow and discover herself. It's a definitely great read.
March 6, 2020
Wonderful new author!
It's always a pleasure to discover new-to-me authors. I enjoyed this story very much and look forward to reading her other books!
It's always a pleasure to discover new-to-me authors. I enjoyed this story very much and look forward to reading her other books!
October 3, 2020
3.5 stars
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