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Staunton Sisters #1
In the Viscount’s Arms
Reeling from the death of her parents, eldest daughter Octavia strives to be a source of strength for her sisters. She defies their grandfather’s high-handed meddling—and his desire to see the Staunton girls married. She forges her own path to independence, which leads to the gates of Caswell Hall. There, the governess has just quit her post, leaving a vacant spot in the local lord’s household.
Simon, Viscount Althorne, is impressed by the sensible, dark-haired beauty, and hires her to teach his wayward young niece. He resents the loss of his carefree bachelor days, and longs to see the child settled so that he may return to London. But one perfect English summer turns their plans upside down, and he becomes inexplicably drawn to the one woman he cannot have—the family governess.
Can Simon convince her that he is a gentleman worth loving? Will Octavia allow herself to fall for a man beyond her reach? Or will class and duty separate them forever?
Simon, Viscount Althorne, is impressed by the sensible, dark-haired beauty, and hires her to teach his wayward young niece. He resents the loss of his carefree bachelor days, and longs to see the child settled so that he may return to London. But one perfect English summer turns their plans upside down, and he becomes inexplicably drawn to the one woman he cannot have—the family governess.
Can Simon convince her that he is a gentleman worth loving? Will Octavia allow herself to fall for a man beyond her reach? Or will class and duty separate them forever?
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 5, 2019
972 people are currently reading
704 people want to read
About the author
Allyson Jeleyne
55 books88 followersAllyson Jeleyne has been indie publishing since 2014. She writes enchanting low-angst, medium-steam “slice of life” romance novels. Her characters are a complex cast of adventurers, entrepreneurs, heiresses, peeresses, and survivors, each journeying through love and life in the Victorian era
She earned an interdisciplinary studies degree in Creative Writing and Journalism while also studying British history & literature in her spare time. When not writing, she enjoys traveling and checking things off her bucket list.
She makes her home in the South Carolina lowcountry with her beloved dog, Dollie Madison (2005-2022).
She earned an interdisciplinary studies degree in Creative Writing and Journalism while also studying British history & literature in her spare time. When not writing, she enjoys traveling and checking things off her bucket list.
She makes her home in the South Carolina lowcountry with her beloved dog, Dollie Madison (2005-2022).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
September 6, 2019
In The Viscount's Arms
Staunton Sisters series #1
Allyson Jeleyne
https://www.facebook.com/AllysonJeleyne/
Release date 9/05/2019
Publisher Fifty Forty Productions
Blurb :
Reeling from the death of her parents, eldest daughter Octavia strives to be a source of strength for her sisters. She defies their grandfather’s high-handed meddling—and his desire to see the Staunton girls married. She forges her own path to independence, which leads to the gates of Caswell Hall. There, the governess has just quit her post, leaving a vacant spot in the local lord’s household.
Simon, Viscount Althorne, is impressed by the sensible, dark-haired beauty, and hires her to teach his wayward young niece. He resents the loss of his carefree bachelor days, and longs to see the child settled so that he may return to London. But one perfect English summer turns their plans upside down, and he becomes inexplicably drawn to the one woman he cannot have—the governess.
Can Simon convince her that he is a gentleman worth loving? Will Octavia allow herself to fall for a man beyond her reach? Or will class and duty separate them forever?
My review :
Can two persons from different social rank while bonding around a child, find a way to another?
Don’t ask me why I preordered this book, I can’t remember. It must have been because of the blurb as the author was new-to-me.
But I am happy I did it, and that I didn’t forgot to mark it in my preordered-books schedule.
This was not the usual Spinster exceptional becoming Governess extraordinary meets and falls in love with her employer.
There was no big sizzling chemistry at first between them, appendages coming up to stand nor weak knees buckling.
This was really a slow-burn romance, each taking time to find its place in the narrative, then getting to know the other before first attraction move to something more profound.
Nothing was rushed by Mrs jeleyne, she gave time and encounters to help her fleshy protagonists fall for one another.
When the real courtship began, it was so sensual, delicate and also subtle, a brush of fingers, a hand on the small of the back, stolen glances ...
As first in a series, it introduced part of the next book’s protagonists, and for sure, I will read the heroine’s sisters tales.
Simon, Viscount Althorne is no cad, he left his young wild self behind when he unexpectedly inherited his brother’s title and a ward.
For Leah, he indulges her a lot, spoiling her to make do, he believe, for her lack of true parents. He is clever and practical man, he knows his niece tests their governesses endurance and patiente but more then often they lack of both.
He is not the sort of man whom will abuse of his rank power, he is respectable and his niece’s happiness comes always first.
Octavia needs a mean to put bread on the tale, so when one more governess flights from her post at the local Peer home, she decides to try her luck.
Then her resourcefulness opened her the doors of the hero’s castle.
She uses her good-sense and the respect for anyone to slowly win Leah’s heart. Those same qualities charm too the master of the castle.
Both struggle when they start to glimpse where their sentiments are leading them.
As there is no true villain to entice the plot, just petty gens, this one tale was, outside of the romance, a great foray in the today’s life in the country during this time.
A magnificent three-way story, with its love growing fast between the hero’s charge and his employee but also in the heart of its lonesome peer.
5 stars for this breathtaking tale.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Staunton Sisters series #1
Allyson Jeleyne
https://www.facebook.com/AllysonJeleyne/
Release date 9/05/2019
Publisher Fifty Forty Productions
Blurb :
Reeling from the death of her parents, eldest daughter Octavia strives to be a source of strength for her sisters. She defies their grandfather’s high-handed meddling—and his desire to see the Staunton girls married. She forges her own path to independence, which leads to the gates of Caswell Hall. There, the governess has just quit her post, leaving a vacant spot in the local lord’s household.
Simon, Viscount Althorne, is impressed by the sensible, dark-haired beauty, and hires her to teach his wayward young niece. He resents the loss of his carefree bachelor days, and longs to see the child settled so that he may return to London. But one perfect English summer turns their plans upside down, and he becomes inexplicably drawn to the one woman he cannot have—the governess.
Can Simon convince her that he is a gentleman worth loving? Will Octavia allow herself to fall for a man beyond her reach? Or will class and duty separate them forever?
My review :
Can two persons from different social rank while bonding around a child, find a way to another?
Don’t ask me why I preordered this book, I can’t remember. It must have been because of the blurb as the author was new-to-me.
But I am happy I did it, and that I didn’t forgot to mark it in my preordered-books schedule.
This was not the usual Spinster exceptional becoming Governess extraordinary meets and falls in love with her employer.
There was no big sizzling chemistry at first between them, appendages coming up to stand nor weak knees buckling.
This was really a slow-burn romance, each taking time to find its place in the narrative, then getting to know the other before first attraction move to something more profound.
Nothing was rushed by Mrs jeleyne, she gave time and encounters to help her fleshy protagonists fall for one another.
When the real courtship began, it was so sensual, delicate and also subtle, a brush of fingers, a hand on the small of the back, stolen glances ...
As first in a series, it introduced part of the next book’s protagonists, and for sure, I will read the heroine’s sisters tales.
Simon, Viscount Althorne is no cad, he left his young wild self behind when he unexpectedly inherited his brother’s title and a ward.
For Leah, he indulges her a lot, spoiling her to make do, he believe, for her lack of true parents. He is clever and practical man, he knows his niece tests their governesses endurance and patiente but more then often they lack of both.
He is not the sort of man whom will abuse of his rank power, he is respectable and his niece’s happiness comes always first.
Octavia needs a mean to put bread on the tale, so when one more governess flights from her post at the local Peer home, she decides to try her luck.
Then her resourcefulness opened her the doors of the hero’s castle.
She uses her good-sense and the respect for anyone to slowly win Leah’s heart. Those same qualities charm too the master of the castle.
Both struggle when they start to glimpse where their sentiments are leading them.
As there is no true villain to entice the plot, just petty gens, this one tale was, outside of the romance, a great foray in the today’s life in the country during this time.
A magnificent three-way story, with its love growing fast between the hero’s charge and his employee but also in the heart of its lonesome peer.
5 stars for this breathtaking tale.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
January 30, 2021
This is without a doubt one of the best historical romance novels I've ever read! Allyson Jeleyne does a superb job setting the scene and crafting the characters. The English countryside, the everyday toil of regular people contrasted against the splendor of Caswell Hall, is accomplished with poetic ease and perfection. Furthermore, there was no angst, no lies or secrets, just two people trying to make their budding romance work. By the time I reached the end, I was relieved by the originality - by the lack of some awful villain who so often threatens to ruin it all before our hero and heroine reach their happily ever after. There was none of that, and as a result, In the Viscount's Arms is simply a beautifully told love story. If you haven't read it already, I highly recommend you do. You won't be sorry. This book is a treat - a happy gift tied with a bow - and on top of all that it's currently FREE!!! So grab it, read it, and once you're done I'm sure you'll do as I will and purchase the sequels :)
April 9, 2020
*I received a free digital ARC via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
Addictive
The beginning was a bit bland, especially as we know exactly what we’re getting into after reading the title and description – the story can only go in one direction. The exciting part is how we get there.
There is an obvious attraction between our two main characters, Octavia Staunton and Viscount Althorne (Lord Simon Caswell). Octavia impresses his Lordship right from the very start with her gentle manner in trying to instruct his obnoxious niece, despite all the tantrums and refusals. Somehow the three of them form a tenuous bond that can only grow over time.
We hear about how Simon’s niece, Leah, tragically lost both of her parents. Yet, despite the start where the Staunton sisters are just coming out of mourning for their parents, who died a year previously, we hear nothing of what caused their deaths. This could have been a point of conversation, yet the only thing we hear about them, aside from their deaths, is about their scandalous marriage. It might seem morbid, but it bugged me to not get the full picture of what happened.
That aside, once I got into the pace of the book, I could barely put it down. The last few chapters and pages just breezed by, as the romance heightened. It was quite beautifully done, although we have to wait to the next book for any nuptials. Luckily I already have it ready to go!
Final rating: ★★★★☆ – Really liked
April 23, 2021
Charming Sweet Historical Romance!! Well Written Characters!!
Octavia Staunton and her two younger sisters are left in poverty after there parents death. Octavia takes a job as a governess for Simon Viscount Althorne.
Simon is the guardian of his 6 year old niece Leah. Leah is a terror. She has temper tantrums and runs off her governesses.
Simon has a great love for Leah and is out of his mind over how to control her. He hires Octavia who within time has shown her love and patients with Leah. Leah comes to love Octavia and so does her doting uncle Simon.
The only thing I didn't like about this story was I am so sick of the Spinster storyline. Octavia is 25 years old. What ever happen to the young debutants and there coming out season? Also I am not sure how Octavia's parents died.
Octavia Staunton and her two younger sisters are left in poverty after there parents death. Octavia takes a job as a governess for Simon Viscount Althorne.
Simon is the guardian of his 6 year old niece Leah. Leah is a terror. She has temper tantrums and runs off her governesses.
Simon has a great love for Leah and is out of his mind over how to control her. He hires Octavia who within time has shown her love and patients with Leah. Leah comes to love Octavia and so does her doting uncle Simon.
The only thing I didn't like about this story was I am so sick of the Spinster storyline. Octavia is 25 years old. What ever happen to the young debutants and there coming out season? Also I am not sure how Octavia's parents died.
January 14, 2021
A soft and true romance. Octavia becomes the governess for Simon's niece so that she can support her sisters. I really enjoyed this romance. The two main characters get to know each other, becoming friends and then moving to romance. They both learn about their prejudices and grow. The 6 year old niece is precocious and fun. I liked how all the secondary characters were written. The only thing that would have made it better would have been a little bit of drama, especially with Octavia's sisters. I think their stories will be in other books.
April 22, 2021
Although not my usual trope, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. And even if I’m accustomed to higher heat levels, I felt the connection and emotion between the viscount and his governess.
When I read historical, I hope for some accuracy and I think this book delivers.
Only criticism I have is that I sometimes was confused about the POV because in several spots the character seems to know what the other is thinking or feeling.
Still, a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and I can wait to read about the Duke and the middle sister or to find out how the youngest sister will do in London.
When I read historical, I hope for some accuracy and I think this book delivers.
Only criticism I have is that I sometimes was confused about the POV because in several spots the character seems to know what the other is thinking or feeling.
Still, a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ star rating and I can wait to read about the Duke and the middle sister or to find out how the youngest sister will do in London.
Want to read
October 7, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (10/7/2020)! 🎁
September 17, 2021
This is a new to me author and this story was a bit more sedate than I am used to reading. There was no real conflict at all, except the viscount believing that the governess may not want to marry him. Which frankly did not make sense to me because they shared feelings for each other. One thing that I do not like too much is when the woman/governess comes in and is the only one who can deal with an unruly child. But otherwise, it was a sweet romance and not objectionable at all.
January 16, 2020
Prepare to fall in love with the Staunton sisters and in particular Octavia, the eldest of the three. It had been twelve months since the death of their parents and they were formally ending their mourning. Having grown up in a small village with their mother a teacher, the village had taken them under their wing, but now they needed a plan to earn funds so that they could pay the bills and make ends meet. Maybe even buy some new dresses.
When Octavia heard that the latest governess for Simon,Lord Althorn at Caswell Hall had quit, she saw it as her opportunity to get a job. Yes she was overqualified even though she had not had a formal education.
I love this part when she marched in and almost demanded the job and yes, she did get hired! What she did not expect was how handsome he was because nobody really knew much about him!
A wonderful journey to love and romance you will not be able to put down once you have started! I love her charge Leah who was Simon's niece and how kind he was to her.. Loved this story!
When Octavia heard that the latest governess for Simon,Lord Althorn at Caswell Hall had quit, she saw it as her opportunity to get a job. Yes she was overqualified even though she had not had a formal education.
I love this part when she marched in and almost demanded the job and yes, she did get hired! What she did not expect was how handsome he was because nobody really knew much about him!
A wonderful journey to love and romance you will not be able to put down once you have started! I love her charge Leah who was Simon's niece and how kind he was to her.. Loved this story!
July 30, 2023
More like a 3.75. But well written nonetheless.
September 9, 2019
Loved this book! 💛❤️💛❤️💛
This is a new-to-me author, and I so enjoyed her writing style.
The H/h were awesome, as well as the supporting characters (especially the Viscount’s niece). Though I’ve read many with the lord/governess type storyline, this was fresh and different, and beautifully and romantically done. I’m so anxious for #2 to be released in December, and continue on this journey!
This is a new-to-me author, and I so enjoyed her writing style.
The H/h were awesome, as well as the supporting characters (especially the Viscount’s niece). Though I’ve read many with the lord/governess type storyline, this was fresh and different, and beautifully and romantically done. I’m so anxious for #2 to be released in December, and continue on this journey!
December 7, 2019
This was a very well written book. I only regret that it ended so abruptly. I was waiting to get to the happily ever after and it was not to be. I have already purchased the next book- hopefully it will include an ending for Octavia and Simon. I would recommend it for all readers of this genre- just be aware of the ending. I would suggest the author update the book to have an ending or epilogue at least
December 15, 2020
A quick mild read.
Enjoyed this sweet read but it did not leave me intrigued enough to see about the other two sisters, Cassandra and Honoria.
Enjoyed this sweet read but it did not leave me intrigued enough to see about the other two sisters, Cassandra and Honoria.
February 26, 2021
This is a sweet and charming romance. No melodrama, kidnapping, deeply buried secrets...just a good story with likable characters and love bridging class barriers. Really enjoyable.
January 17, 2020
Wonderfully Written Victorian Romance with Excellent Characters
It has been a while since I have read a Victorian romance that captivated me as thoroughly as this one. I kept reading it when I should have been doing other things! I can give no higher compliment to a book.
Octavia is a strong woman who has guided her younger sisters for a long time, but especially during their year of mourning after losing both parents. The book opens when their mourning has ended. Their parents were never wealthy, and by this point, these young women have very little money left. Octavia, as the eldest, believe she needs to support her younger sisters and so shows up at the local lord’s manor house to apply for a position as a governess. This viscount is reclusive, the villagers knowing little about him. She gets the job and is challenged at every turn by her charge, the six-year-old niece of the viscount who has terrorized every governess before Octavia.
The hero is beleaguered when we first meet him, as he has much business to attend to and the constant search for governess adds even more to his plate. He never wanted to be a viscount, but his older brother died tragically before the little girl was even born. After the girl’s mother's death soon after the birth, he has both a large estate and a young girl to look after. He is unsure about Octavia at first but soon sees that she truly cares and intends to stick around no matter what.
So, what did I like about this book? Before I talk about the main characters, whom I adored, I have to say that the plot is really well done. There are no outlandish things as can often happen in stories like this; no highwaymen, kidnappings, forced captivity, or overturned carriages. instead, we see the relationships of several characters slowly unfold, revealing both the individuals and the dynamics between them.
I thoroughly enjoyed both the hero and the heroine. Both were sympathetic and genuinely decent people doing their best in difficult circumstances. The viscount is a swoon-worthy hero. He is a loving and indulgent uncle who never wanted the responsibility of guardian but who rises to the challenge. He takes his faults quite seriously and does not find tears to be unmanly. There are several little lovely romantic moments throughout the book. The romance aspect only comes on gradually, which I appreciate in a book like this. Sometimes I get so tired of the instalove stories. It's as if the authors cannot imagine and write the gradual way that most people fall for each other. Luckily, that didn't happen here. The couple comes to know each other first as inevitable companions throughout their days, and they do become friends. Both believe—somewhat nonsensically—that it can be nothing more, while it is clear to the reader they are coming to care for each other as more than just friends. The evolution of the relationship was a pleasure to read, as was the relationship between Octavia and the little girl. Actually, it was lovely to see the relationships between all three characters evolve as they became a family. Such delightful little moments between them here and there, like playing skittles in the nursery wing's corridor on a rainy day to picnics in the nursery.
The evolution of the romantic relationship was perhaps so slow that it almost felt a little jarring when things heated up between the couple. That's one of the downsides I saw in this book. I didn't quite believe it when things became so amorous so quickly. I kept thinking they'd get caught during the house party! That said, though, I did think their first time together was completely in character, sweet, and absolutely adorable in parts. Too often, unfortunately, this pivotal scene in a romance often seems perfunctory. Not the case here.
The other thing that I didn't quite believe was that the other Staunton sisters would do what they did (no spoilers!) without contacting Octavia. These sisters are supposed to be so close. But how can they be if they don't tell their sister what is going on in their lives?
Book 2 is firmly set up in this one, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the relationship between the second daughter of the Staunton family and the duke (friend of this book’s hero) plays out. If you enjoy well-plotted Victorian romance with well-drawn, round, three-dimensional characters, you may very well enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
It has been a while since I have read a Victorian romance that captivated me as thoroughly as this one. I kept reading it when I should have been doing other things! I can give no higher compliment to a book.
Octavia is a strong woman who has guided her younger sisters for a long time, but especially during their year of mourning after losing both parents. The book opens when their mourning has ended. Their parents were never wealthy, and by this point, these young women have very little money left. Octavia, as the eldest, believe she needs to support her younger sisters and so shows up at the local lord’s manor house to apply for a position as a governess. This viscount is reclusive, the villagers knowing little about him. She gets the job and is challenged at every turn by her charge, the six-year-old niece of the viscount who has terrorized every governess before Octavia.
The hero is beleaguered when we first meet him, as he has much business to attend to and the constant search for governess adds even more to his plate. He never wanted to be a viscount, but his older brother died tragically before the little girl was even born. After the girl’s mother's death soon after the birth, he has both a large estate and a young girl to look after. He is unsure about Octavia at first but soon sees that she truly cares and intends to stick around no matter what.
So, what did I like about this book? Before I talk about the main characters, whom I adored, I have to say that the plot is really well done. There are no outlandish things as can often happen in stories like this; no highwaymen, kidnappings, forced captivity, or overturned carriages. instead, we see the relationships of several characters slowly unfold, revealing both the individuals and the dynamics between them.
I thoroughly enjoyed both the hero and the heroine. Both were sympathetic and genuinely decent people doing their best in difficult circumstances. The viscount is a swoon-worthy hero. He is a loving and indulgent uncle who never wanted the responsibility of guardian but who rises to the challenge. He takes his faults quite seriously and does not find tears to be unmanly. There are several little lovely romantic moments throughout the book. The romance aspect only comes on gradually, which I appreciate in a book like this. Sometimes I get so tired of the instalove stories. It's as if the authors cannot imagine and write the gradual way that most people fall for each other. Luckily, that didn't happen here. The couple comes to know each other first as inevitable companions throughout their days, and they do become friends. Both believe—somewhat nonsensically—that it can be nothing more, while it is clear to the reader they are coming to care for each other as more than just friends. The evolution of the relationship was a pleasure to read, as was the relationship between Octavia and the little girl. Actually, it was lovely to see the relationships between all three characters evolve as they became a family. Such delightful little moments between them here and there, like playing skittles in the nursery wing's corridor on a rainy day to picnics in the nursery.
The evolution of the romantic relationship was perhaps so slow that it almost felt a little jarring when things heated up between the couple. That's one of the downsides I saw in this book. I didn't quite believe it when things became so amorous so quickly. I kept thinking they'd get caught during the house party! That said, though, I did think their first time together was completely in character, sweet, and absolutely adorable in parts. Too often, unfortunately, this pivotal scene in a romance often seems perfunctory. Not the case here.
The other thing that I didn't quite believe was that the other Staunton sisters would do what they did (no spoilers!) without contacting Octavia. These sisters are supposed to be so close. But how can they be if they don't tell their sister what is going on in their lives?
Book 2 is firmly set up in this one, and I'm looking forward to seeing how the relationship between the second daughter of the Staunton family and the duke (friend of this book’s hero) plays out. If you enjoy well-plotted Victorian romance with well-drawn, round, three-dimensional characters, you may very well enjoy this book.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
March 14, 2022
Not your mother's historical romance!
In The Viscount's Arms starts out as many historical romances, with the tragic death of loving parents leaving three sisters alone and unprotected in Victorian England. The story continues along the typical plot of oldest sister takes a job as a governess to a horrible child of a viscount nobody really knows. But what happens from there is all fresh from the creative mind of Allyson Jeleyne! Ms. Jeleyne's characters show more depth than the historical romances I used to share with my mother. Her female heroine is someone I can admire and wish to befriend. Her male characters are far from the usual snobby aristrocrats you see in most historical fiction.
And certainly In the Viscount's Arms is a steamier romance than Georgette Heyer ever wrote! Wow! Turn on a fan! Who knew Victorians could lose their inhibitions like that. Though I am still not sure why a year later the Viscount and Viscountess don't have children of their own!
Yet, reading this novel brought back sweet memories of Saturday afternoon library trips with mama. We would pick up our latest stack of Georgette Heyer, Barbara Cartland and Victoria Holt. Then as a special mother daughter treat we would stop at the nearby coffee shop for a soda. Those days are long gone. The trip down memory lane was unexpected delight,as was Ms. Jeleyne ideallic scenes of garden parties and afternoon tea under a big tree. I loved being virtually transported to a game of Skittles in the nursery corridor. It was difficult to return to dishes in the sink and laundry that needed to be done. Good fiction though should magically take us to a world outside our own reality if only for a short period of time. Allyson Jeleyne does that. (If I want reality, I will read the news!)
Congratulations Allyson, you hid a cliffhanger again...you know I hate them! It's OK, though. I knew it was coming, can't have a series without leaving that tantalizing tidbit for the next book. I do want to know what happens to Cassandra and Honoria so I will pick up the rest of the series. I admit it! I am hooked!
In The Viscount's Arms starts out as many historical romances, with the tragic death of loving parents leaving three sisters alone and unprotected in Victorian England. The story continues along the typical plot of oldest sister takes a job as a governess to a horrible child of a viscount nobody really knows. But what happens from there is all fresh from the creative mind of Allyson Jeleyne! Ms. Jeleyne's characters show more depth than the historical romances I used to share with my mother. Her female heroine is someone I can admire and wish to befriend. Her male characters are far from the usual snobby aristrocrats you see in most historical fiction.
And certainly In the Viscount's Arms is a steamier romance than Georgette Heyer ever wrote! Wow! Turn on a fan! Who knew Victorians could lose their inhibitions like that. Though I am still not sure why a year later the Viscount and Viscountess don't have children of their own!
Yet, reading this novel brought back sweet memories of Saturday afternoon library trips with mama. We would pick up our latest stack of Georgette Heyer, Barbara Cartland and Victoria Holt. Then as a special mother daughter treat we would stop at the nearby coffee shop for a soda. Those days are long gone. The trip down memory lane was unexpected delight,as was Ms. Jeleyne ideallic scenes of garden parties and afternoon tea under a big tree. I loved being virtually transported to a game of Skittles in the nursery corridor. It was difficult to return to dishes in the sink and laundry that needed to be done. Good fiction though should magically take us to a world outside our own reality if only for a short period of time. Allyson Jeleyne does that. (If I want reality, I will read the news!)
Congratulations Allyson, you hid a cliffhanger again...you know I hate them! It's OK, though. I knew it was coming, can't have a series without leaving that tantalizing tidbit for the next book. I do want to know what happens to Cassandra and Honoria so I will pick up the rest of the series. I admit it! I am hooked!
April 3, 2022
This was my first read by this author and I loved it! The storyline, characters and overall feeling of the book was great. This was Simon and Octavia’s story.
The preview of this book is perfectly stated. These are two people bound by duty to family and neither are thrilled about it, but must make the best of the situation. Octavia is independent, strong, funny and creative. She mesmerized the Viscount from their first meeting with her intelligence and understated beauty. Simon is a gentleman, handsome, smart and deep down has a huge heart. He made her believe that she was worthy of more than her station.
These two are drawn together by an amazing little girl who allows them both to show their ability to love. They grow their friendship because of her and that friendship blossoms into so much more. They are each other’s strengths and I love that they are not afraid to go after it.
The secondary characters in this book are wonderful as well. The storyline flowed nicely and the romance of it all was amazing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The preview of this book is perfectly stated. These are two people bound by duty to family and neither are thrilled about it, but must make the best of the situation. Octavia is independent, strong, funny and creative. She mesmerized the Viscount from their first meeting with her intelligence and understated beauty. Simon is a gentleman, handsome, smart and deep down has a huge heart. He made her believe that she was worthy of more than her station.
These two are drawn together by an amazing little girl who allows them both to show their ability to love. They grow their friendship because of her and that friendship blossoms into so much more. They are each other’s strengths and I love that they are not afraid to go after it.
The secondary characters in this book are wonderful as well. The storyline flowed nicely and the romance of it all was amazing. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 19, 2020
An unfortunate change in circumstances
Heading the end of their year of morning the loss of their parents, Octavia, the eldest of the three sisters realizes she must find work befitting a well raised young woman, as their means we're quickly dwindling. Having just discussed this necessary change in their home with her sisters, Octavia is surprised to hear the latest gossip in their little town. The local lord had once again lost his governess. Seeing it as the perfect, well almost, job possibility, Octavia presents herself at the lord's country as quickly as possible. Her qualifications, you might ask? Umm, since she's never held any type of position, her well rounded education at the feet of her father, a tutor, was all she had to recommend her. In her family's current state of affairs, her pluck, kindness, and tenacity might just prove to be her greatest assets.
A delightful story you won't soon forget! Enjoy!
Heading the end of their year of morning the loss of their parents, Octavia, the eldest of the three sisters realizes she must find work befitting a well raised young woman, as their means we're quickly dwindling. Having just discussed this necessary change in their home with her sisters, Octavia is surprised to hear the latest gossip in their little town. The local lord had once again lost his governess. Seeing it as the perfect, well almost, job possibility, Octavia presents herself at the lord's country as quickly as possible. Her qualifications, you might ask? Umm, since she's never held any type of position, her well rounded education at the feet of her father, a tutor, was all she had to recommend her. In her family's current state of affairs, her pluck, kindness, and tenacity might just prove to be her greatest assets.
A delightful story you won't soon forget! Enjoy!
November 27, 2020
I quite enjoyed this book. I liked the interactions with the little girl, Leah, and Octavia's role as governess.
There are a small number of things which could have been better. Simon was a little too wimpy for my tastes, although it wasn't too bad. The sex scenes were a little too rushed. This is not a clean romance and we had a few scenes before reaching the main one. However, once we reach that part, it's all over a little too quickly. I don't mind clean romances and I don't mind sex scenes, but if an author is going to write the sex scene, I'd prefer they just went for it. No half measures.
I did feel like the story dragged on a little. I was enjoying it, but towards the end, I didn't feel like much was happening and the couple's interactions were a little too sickly sweet.
None of this detracted too badly from what was a pleasant read.
There are a small number of things which could have been better. Simon was a little too wimpy for my tastes, although it wasn't too bad. The sex scenes were a little too rushed. This is not a clean romance and we had a few scenes before reaching the main one. However, once we reach that part, it's all over a little too quickly. I don't mind clean romances and I don't mind sex scenes, but if an author is going to write the sex scene, I'd prefer they just went for it. No half measures.
I did feel like the story dragged on a little. I was enjoying it, but towards the end, I didn't feel like much was happening and the couple's interactions were a little too sickly sweet.
None of this detracted too badly from what was a pleasant read.
May 23, 2023
OMG I freaking love this book. I fell in love with Octavia and Simon as individuals and as a unit.
Octavia is the eldest of 3 daughters. She had to find work to sustain her family after both their parents died. She finds a position as a governess for the young Leah who also lost her parents and know lives with her uncle the (new) Lord Simon Althorne.
It was so moving to see Octavia and Simon work together to ensure the best future possible for Leah as her earlier years were difficult. How they pined for each other in the same house but wanted to be as respectful as possible to the other. I so love the slow burn and growth of their affection and love for one another. The level of cuteness in this couple is exactly what I needed. A truly well written romance.
If it wasn’t obvious already, this book is a new favorite of mine. 🖤
Octavia is the eldest of 3 daughters. She had to find work to sustain her family after both their parents died. She finds a position as a governess for the young Leah who also lost her parents and know lives with her uncle the (new) Lord Simon Althorne.
It was so moving to see Octavia and Simon work together to ensure the best future possible for Leah as her earlier years were difficult. How they pined for each other in the same house but wanted to be as respectful as possible to the other. I so love the slow burn and growth of their affection and love for one another. The level of cuteness in this couple is exactly what I needed. A truly well written romance.
If it wasn’t obvious already, this book is a new favorite of mine. 🖤
December 8, 2020
Pretty standard romance. Although I did like the fact that it didn't start with both of them being wildly attracted to each other and wanting to tear each other's clothes off. They started with light admiration for one another's strengths, then became friends. Because of this, there wasn't a whole lot of conflict, but that was okay. Octavia was pragmatic and hardworking, and her motivations to help her sisters made sense. Simon was interesting too, in that he was just trying to do right by his family.
Perfect, lighthearted romance to keep you occupied for a couple of days. Not super profound, but comforting.
Perfect, lighthearted romance to keep you occupied for a couple of days. Not super profound, but comforting.
August 26, 2021
Well, I did it. I read my first romance novel. I’m not ashamed to say I enjoyed it a lot. I chose it for the time period which showing an ankle was scandalous business. The story was sweet and just an overall feel good story like you might find on midday Lifetime television.
I appreciate that it wasn’t the cheesy, overbearing, lovey dovey mess that sometimes creeps into a story. I typically hate forced relationships in both movies and books. But, considering this was centered around garnering a relationship, it was natural, free flowing, well written and pleasurable enough to make me pick up another romance in the future.
I appreciate that it wasn’t the cheesy, overbearing, lovey dovey mess that sometimes creeps into a story. I typically hate forced relationships in both movies and books. But, considering this was centered around garnering a relationship, it was natural, free flowing, well written and pleasurable enough to make me pick up another romance in the future.
November 21, 2020
A wonderful story
This beautiful, gentle live story is enhanced by excellent writing and a nice insight into the characters. Simon is a real, human protagonist, not too perfect, but not a flawed tormented hero. Olivia is a strong, courageous, believable heroine. The main barrier to their HEA is a class difference, but this is no King Cophetea and the Begger Maid tale, but the recounting of a lovely, believable love story, and a wonderfully delightful six-year-old girl who is the reason for it all.
This beautiful, gentle live story is enhanced by excellent writing and a nice insight into the characters. Simon is a real, human protagonist, not too perfect, but not a flawed tormented hero. Olivia is a strong, courageous, believable heroine. The main barrier to their HEA is a class difference, but this is no King Cophetea and the Begger Maid tale, but the recounting of a lovely, believable love story, and a wonderfully delightful six-year-old girl who is the reason for it all.
Read
September 3, 2021Disappointed
This story was beyond wonderful but I'm so disappointed for the end of the series!! We readers must j have one more book to know what happens to the sisters. How can you leave us longing for more?! I implore you to provide us the ending to their history. How were the other sister's weddings? Did they all have children? And what about the renovation of their houses? And holidays spent in each others company? You just cannot leave us hanging! Oh, sure, I can imagine but I want to know the real ending from you , their creator.
This story was beyond wonderful but I'm so disappointed for the end of the series!! We readers must j have one more book to know what happens to the sisters. How can you leave us longing for more?! I implore you to provide us the ending to their history. How were the other sister's weddings? Did they all have children? And what about the renovation of their houses? And holidays spent in each others company? You just cannot leave us hanging! Oh, sure, I can imagine but I want to know the real ending from you , their creator.
December 11, 2022
Aunque el argumento está bastante visto; niñera que acaba con el señor de la casa, la autora mete algunos detalles originales y su forma de escribir es ágil y amena.
Octavia ha terminado un año de luto tras la muerte de sus padres. Como la mayor de tres hermanas debe buscar empleo para evitar que su abuelo, al que no han visto nada, las obligue a ir a Londres. Se toma el firme propósito de mantener a sus hermanas, y si para eso debe ir a la cada del vizconde de la zona y al que nadie conoce salvo porque las niñeras le duran cada vez menos, no dudará en presentarse en la puerta de la mansión.
En realidad los rumores que circulan en el pueblo no se asemejan a la realidad, Simon es un tío devoto que haría lo que fuera por su sobrina. Él no quería el título y preferiría que su hermano siguiera vivo.
Esa joven de la zona consigue lo que ninguna otra niñera había logrado, obtener la confianza de Leah, su pupila de seis años.
La educación de Octavia y sus hermanas fue exquisita gracias a sus padres. Simon la ve como la perfecta vizcondesa, pero antes debe convencerla a ella.
Entretenida y se lee rápido, el conjunto de personajes es interesante, mención especial para Wadebridge, un duque amigo de Simon y que protagoniza la siguiente entrega que no me pienso perder.
Octavia ha terminado un año de luto tras la muerte de sus padres. Como la mayor de tres hermanas debe buscar empleo para evitar que su abuelo, al que no han visto nada, las obligue a ir a Londres. Se toma el firme propósito de mantener a sus hermanas, y si para eso debe ir a la cada del vizconde de la zona y al que nadie conoce salvo porque las niñeras le duran cada vez menos, no dudará en presentarse en la puerta de la mansión.
En realidad los rumores que circulan en el pueblo no se asemejan a la realidad, Simon es un tío devoto que haría lo que fuera por su sobrina. Él no quería el título y preferiría que su hermano siguiera vivo.
Esa joven de la zona consigue lo que ninguna otra niñera había logrado, obtener la confianza de Leah, su pupila de seis años.
La educación de Octavia y sus hermanas fue exquisita gracias a sus padres. Simon la ve como la perfecta vizcondesa, pero antes debe convencerla a ella.
Entretenida y se lee rápido, el conjunto de personajes es interesante, mención especial para Wadebridge, un duque amigo de Simon y que protagoniza la siguiente entrega que no me pienso perder.
April 24, 2024
Bottom line, I would implore everyone to read this since it's truly a good-to-great read. I liked it but there was nothing that stood out that compelled me to rate it 4 ⭐'s. I would even say that the ending dragged on a bit but the proposal was very cute . This story is more found family first, romance second but it works fs. Again, I really liked this story but nothing stood out. I might be inclined to read the rest of the series.
April 8, 2023
Jeleyne’s excellent prose (with only a few anachronistic phrases) draws the reader directly into the life of three young women on the cusp of adulthood left as orphans and how they deal valiantly with their dilemma. Character development is excellent and plausible. The challenges faced by the male protagonist’s having to take on his orphaned niece as well as taking on a peerage are sympathetically described.
Elizabeth Fontaine Stabler
Elizabeth Fontaine Stabler
April 21, 2021
Enjoyable
I really liked the story and the characters. I felt like things were missing, like the grandfather being mentioned multiple times but It didn't lead to anything. Loving sisters don't write each other? A few mistakes that didn't fit with the time period, the governess had manicured nails? It should have been a five star book.
I really liked the story and the characters. I felt like things were missing, like the grandfather being mentioned multiple times but It didn't lead to anything. Loving sisters don't write each other? A few mistakes that didn't fit with the time period, the governess had manicured nails? It should have been a five star book.
September 19, 2021
Traditional slow and sweet romance. The eldest of three sisters becomes a governess, and the angry H accepts her but intends to hire someone else. Instead she turns the child's life around, and makes a big impact by becoming invaluable to him. It's seemed liked a good plot but I found the H childish, and the h was perfect and bossy. The sisters are clearly the leads in next books, not for me.
April 22, 2022
Governess
Great story wonderful story line with characters you will love.
Simon needs a Governess to help with his niece, but they don't stay for long. But when miss Octavia shows up on his door step to apply for the position ,even before he posted advertising. And she is not what
Simon expected, she is so much more.
Thank you ♥️
Great story wonderful story line with characters you will love.
Simon needs a Governess to help with his niece, but they don't stay for long. But when miss Octavia shows up on his door step to apply for the position ,even before he posted advertising. And she is not what
Simon expected, she is so much more.
Thank you ♥️
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