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The Governess of Banbury Park: A Regency Romance
At the reading of her father's will, Sophia Cavanaugh learns that she is suddenly destitute. Impoverished, grief-stricken and alone, she sees only one course open to her - becoming a governess. With little experience and no references, securing a position proves more difficult than expected until she finds a champion in the dashing and well-connected Charles Mortimer. he quickly captures her heart but are the feelings mutual?
Sophia is provided a position by his meddling mother and the two are parted, but fate thrusts them back together. Will Sophia risk her heart and confess her love?
Sophia is provided a position by his meddling mother and the two are parted, but fate thrusts them back together. Will Sophia risk her heart and confess her love?
192 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 12, 2020
My Review: 4 Stars
Although this Regency romance was slightly predictable, it was a sweet and enjoyable read. Sophia handles her tough situation fairly well and I loved watching her develop friendships and strength as she looks to her uncertain future when she finds herself left with nothing after the death of her father. Of course, a lovely connection with Charles, the man who captures her interest, proves to be charming, especially as she forges ahead with her plans to become a governess. He's a delight and a great support to her, offering a solid friendship and a hint of forbidden romance.
The governess angle almost had a gothic feel to it, which was very interesting. Again, Sophia manifests an inner strength that anchors those around her, but may not be enough to withstand the formidable mother of Charles, along with the mystery and dominance surrounding the home she works in.
I enjoyed the endearing characters and the appeasing plot. Like I said, it was slightly predictable, but it was like coming home to a plate of comfort food, and it soothed and satisfied my soul.
Content: mild romance; mild danger/violence
Although this Regency romance was slightly predictable, it was a sweet and enjoyable read. Sophia handles her tough situation fairly well and I loved watching her develop friendships and strength as she looks to her uncertain future when she finds herself left with nothing after the death of her father. Of course, a lovely connection with Charles, the man who captures her interest, proves to be charming, especially as she forges ahead with her plans to become a governess. He's a delight and a great support to her, offering a solid friendship and a hint of forbidden romance.
The governess angle almost had a gothic feel to it, which was very interesting. Again, Sophia manifests an inner strength that anchors those around her, but may not be enough to withstand the formidable mother of Charles, along with the mystery and dominance surrounding the home she works in.
I enjoyed the endearing characters and the appeasing plot. Like I said, it was slightly predictable, but it was like coming home to a plate of comfort food, and it soothed and satisfied my soul.
Content: mild romance; mild danger/violence
May 5, 2020
This book was a little different from the typical Regency Romances. Sophia's father passes away and leaves her penniless. She doesn't have family living in the area, she has no resources, and she doesn't want to bring her father to shame because he didn't provide for her. Her only option is to trust the Lord and move on to another town where she doesn't know anyone.
She was blessed to meet a loving couple willing to take her in until she can find her way as a governess. This is where the story gets really interesting. She meets Charles, who comes from wealth and finds a position far from her new home. The problem with being a governess is that you go into an existing home not knowing the living situation of the family. She soon learns that the public face of her employers is very different from how they live in private.
One thing this book reminded me of is that women during the regency period did not enjoy a lot of rights. Many women were helpless to provide or escape from a bad situation. I liked the fact that this novel did not focus on the proper manners and balls typically found in this genre. I really enjoyed the focus of women in the story. The women were from many different parts of society.
The romance is sweet. It didn't happen quickly but over a period of time. Mainly because of Sophia's reduced circumstances and an ambitious mother.
This book contains spousal abuse.
Source: Kindle Unlimited.
She was blessed to meet a loving couple willing to take her in until she can find her way as a governess. This is where the story gets really interesting. She meets Charles, who comes from wealth and finds a position far from her new home. The problem with being a governess is that you go into an existing home not knowing the living situation of the family. She soon learns that the public face of her employers is very different from how they live in private.
One thing this book reminded me of is that women during the regency period did not enjoy a lot of rights. Many women were helpless to provide or escape from a bad situation. I liked the fact that this novel did not focus on the proper manners and balls typically found in this genre. I really enjoyed the focus of women in the story. The women were from many different parts of society.
The romance is sweet. It didn't happen quickly but over a period of time. Mainly because of Sophia's reduced circumstances and an ambitious mother.
This book contains spousal abuse.
Source: Kindle Unlimited.
May 19, 2020
3.5 Stars
THE GOVERNESS OF BANBURY PARK is a story of one woman's change in circumstances when she finds her father has made no provision for her after his death. She must make her own way and ends up making friends in a neighboring town with the possibility of a happily-ever-after ending. The characters are likable, the romance sweet, and the story heartwarming.
I really liked these characters! Sophia is a bit angry at her circumstances, but also humble and willing to work to provide for herself. After prayer she is guided to find a place to rent among an older couple who become close friends in a new town that welcomes her. There she develops friendships and a life as she searches for a position as a governess. She also runs into the gentleman who lives at the main estate and becomes friends with him and his sister, regardless of their mother's strong disapproval. The story unfolds as Sophia faces different challenges navigating her new life and a drop in station. She also faces the decision of to marry or not to marry and if it's better to have security with a spouse you have no affection for or to wait for love at the risk of never finding it and being left unprotected. There are several examples of a mix of both in the story, some with drastic consequences.
I found the story to be a bit of a mix for me. I enjoyed it overall, but there were sections that I thought were better than others. The story starts with a strong inspirational element, making the story feel very Christian. However, then that backs off a bit and the story just has a few inspirational references here and there. It felt like a mix between the two like the author couldn't quite decide which way to go. Then there were some things that felt very unrealistic to the time period while other things worked. There was an aspect dealing with abuse and an asylum that felt a bit out of place and that was a very dramatic part of the story, but I really liked Sophia's developing relationship with her charge and her charge's mother. I also really enjoyed the camaraderie between Sophia, Charles and Belinda. The banter and joking and discreet looks were all so much fun! But then I didn't get the power Mrs. Mortimer had over her children and the purse strings while Mr. Mortimer seems to not have control of the finances and Charles has no backbone. Their mom controlling the finances would not be realistic to the time period, so that didn't really work for me. To be honest, parts of the story felt like it was trying too hard, particularly at the end when the story drags on and could have ended two chapters earlier.
In the end, was it what I wished for? An overall enjoyable read. Recommended to those who are looking for something entertaining with some harsh realities of the time period, delightful characters, and sweet romance.
Content: Some violence and abuse that may be triggers for some readers.
Source: Borrowed through KindleUnlimited, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
THE GOVERNESS OF BANBURY PARK is a story of one woman's change in circumstances when she finds her father has made no provision for her after his death. She must make her own way and ends up making friends in a neighboring town with the possibility of a happily-ever-after ending. The characters are likable, the romance sweet, and the story heartwarming.
I really liked these characters! Sophia is a bit angry at her circumstances, but also humble and willing to work to provide for herself. After prayer she is guided to find a place to rent among an older couple who become close friends in a new town that welcomes her. There she develops friendships and a life as she searches for a position as a governess. She also runs into the gentleman who lives at the main estate and becomes friends with him and his sister, regardless of their mother's strong disapproval. The story unfolds as Sophia faces different challenges navigating her new life and a drop in station. She also faces the decision of to marry or not to marry and if it's better to have security with a spouse you have no affection for or to wait for love at the risk of never finding it and being left unprotected. There are several examples of a mix of both in the story, some with drastic consequences.
I found the story to be a bit of a mix for me. I enjoyed it overall, but there were sections that I thought were better than others. The story starts with a strong inspirational element, making the story feel very Christian. However, then that backs off a bit and the story just has a few inspirational references here and there. It felt like a mix between the two like the author couldn't quite decide which way to go. Then there were some things that felt very unrealistic to the time period while other things worked. There was an aspect dealing with abuse and an asylum that felt a bit out of place and that was a very dramatic part of the story, but I really liked Sophia's developing relationship with her charge and her charge's mother. I also really enjoyed the camaraderie between Sophia, Charles and Belinda. The banter and joking and discreet looks were all so much fun! But then I didn't get the power Mrs. Mortimer had over her children and the purse strings while Mr. Mortimer seems to not have control of the finances and Charles has no backbone. Their mom controlling the finances would not be realistic to the time period, so that didn't really work for me. To be honest, parts of the story felt like it was trying too hard, particularly at the end when the story drags on and could have ended two chapters earlier.
In the end, was it what I wished for? An overall enjoyable read. Recommended to those who are looking for something entertaining with some harsh realities of the time period, delightful characters, and sweet romance.
Content: Some violence and abuse that may be triggers for some readers.
Source: Borrowed through KindleUnlimited, which did not require a positive review. All opinions are my own.
April 17, 2020
This book was such a great regency romance! There were so many fun characters and I really liked the romance. It’s a clean romance that is still enjoyable to read.
September 6, 2021
This is the first book I’ve read or listened to by Julie Matern. It’s a feel good happily ever after story with a few twists and turns that made listening to the audiobook version enjoyable.
The story mainly revolves around Sophia Cavanaugh who is orphaned when her clergyman father dies. Unfortunately, he did not provide for her and she is left homeless and destitute. Taken in by a lovely childless shopkeeper couple, she soon meets the handsome Charles Mortimer who quickly captures her attention. Though above her station, he seems to be interested in her. His mother definitely doesn’t approve of his friendship with Sophia and offers to help her find a position as a governess.
It is when Sophia ends up as the governess at Banbury Park that the book begins to take on a more ominous feel. The mistress of the house is a young woman married to a much older man. The couple has one daughter whom the master dotes on. As Sophia becomes more familiar with the inner workings of the house, she realizes that Mrs. Banbury might be in some danger. While working there, she gets the chance to see Charles again and must decide whether to risk her heart on a seemingly hopeless relationship.
The audiobook version of the book was well done. It was narrated by the author and it was fun to listen to how she interpreted her own characters. She infused just the right amount of emotion and distinguished the characters well.
The story is fun and can easily be listened to in a day or two. Though at times somewhat predictable, and slightly unbelievable, there were enough twists and turns to make it enjoyable to listen to. I would definitely read this author again. I received a complimentary audiobook version of this book from Cedar Fort for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.
Content warning: emotional and physical spousal abuse though not graphic
The story mainly revolves around Sophia Cavanaugh who is orphaned when her clergyman father dies. Unfortunately, he did not provide for her and she is left homeless and destitute. Taken in by a lovely childless shopkeeper couple, she soon meets the handsome Charles Mortimer who quickly captures her attention. Though above her station, he seems to be interested in her. His mother definitely doesn’t approve of his friendship with Sophia and offers to help her find a position as a governess.
It is when Sophia ends up as the governess at Banbury Park that the book begins to take on a more ominous feel. The mistress of the house is a young woman married to a much older man. The couple has one daughter whom the master dotes on. As Sophia becomes more familiar with the inner workings of the house, she realizes that Mrs. Banbury might be in some danger. While working there, she gets the chance to see Charles again and must decide whether to risk her heart on a seemingly hopeless relationship.
The audiobook version of the book was well done. It was narrated by the author and it was fun to listen to how she interpreted her own characters. She infused just the right amount of emotion and distinguished the characters well.
The story is fun and can easily be listened to in a day or two. Though at times somewhat predictable, and slightly unbelievable, there were enough twists and turns to make it enjoyable to listen to. I would definitely read this author again. I received a complimentary audiobook version of this book from Cedar Fort for my honest review. All opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.
Content warning: emotional and physical spousal abuse though not graphic
May 5, 2020
First off, the cover is so gorgeous and reminds me so much of spring. It is also very innocent looking. This story does not overly romanticize the era in which it is written. The author excels at giving us a story that distinctly shows the division of the upper and lower classes and the prejudices that went along with that in England.
We are also treated to a little thread that is a bit gothic in nature. Also showing the complete adherence and support that women had on their fathers and husbands of the time. But what if your father made no allowance for you or your husband was a cruel manipulator? Also to add insult to injury you were considered chattel by your own family, maybe to save or gain a fortune, title, or respectability for your own mother or father's selfish gain. And at no thought to your future happiness or good.
I really enjoyed this story and the way it was written. All the little threads that seemed to have no relation are tied neatly together at the end. I do believe this was a very realistic view of life through the eyes of a poor governess who due to her station and sex still pursued her happily ever after and to rise above her circumstances.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
We are also treated to a little thread that is a bit gothic in nature. Also showing the complete adherence and support that women had on their fathers and husbands of the time. But what if your father made no allowance for you or your husband was a cruel manipulator? Also to add insult to injury you were considered chattel by your own family, maybe to save or gain a fortune, title, or respectability for your own mother or father's selfish gain. And at no thought to your future happiness or good.
I really enjoyed this story and the way it was written. All the little threads that seemed to have no relation are tied neatly together at the end. I do believe this was a very realistic view of life through the eyes of a poor governess who due to her station and sex still pursued her happily ever after and to rise above her circumstances.
I was provided a copy of this novel from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.
https://pausefortales.blogspot.com/20...
April 23, 2020
I haven’t read a regency in a while, so this was a welcome change. What a sweet action-filled story!
The wonderfully crafted characters are what makes this story so grand. Initially, I was a little annoyed with Sophia Cavanaugh due to her anger toward her father after realizing he hadn’t made provisions for her prior to his death. I realize a female was expected to be taken care of during that time period, but I still felt it was a bit cold to focus so heavily on her future means rather than her loss or heartbreak.
Soon, though, I connected with Sophia, and sympathized with her plight. I loved her tenacity and determination to start somewhere anew and was pleased when she met Mr. and Mrs. Burley, who offered her a room and job, allowing her to find her footing.
And then there’s Charles Mortimer. I loved him instantly. Although he tended to cower to his mother’s wishes too much for my taste, and I wished to give him a kick in the pants at times, I loved his personality.
The pacing increased when Sophia began working as a Governess at Banbury Park. Romance and hidden secrets abound, and I couldn’t seem to turn pages fast enough. The only thing this story left me wanting – was more. I hope there is a sequel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
The wonderfully crafted characters are what makes this story so grand. Initially, I was a little annoyed with Sophia Cavanaugh due to her anger toward her father after realizing he hadn’t made provisions for her prior to his death. I realize a female was expected to be taken care of during that time period, but I still felt it was a bit cold to focus so heavily on her future means rather than her loss or heartbreak.
Soon, though, I connected with Sophia, and sympathized with her plight. I loved her tenacity and determination to start somewhere anew and was pleased when she met Mr. and Mrs. Burley, who offered her a room and job, allowing her to find her footing.
And then there’s Charles Mortimer. I loved him instantly. Although he tended to cower to his mother’s wishes too much for my taste, and I wished to give him a kick in the pants at times, I loved his personality.
The pacing increased when Sophia began working as a Governess at Banbury Park. Romance and hidden secrets abound, and I couldn’t seem to turn pages fast enough. The only thing this story left me wanting – was more. I hope there is a sequel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book.
May 6, 2020
With the title of this book, I was surprised that almost the first half of the book led up to Sophia becoming a governess. However, it was important to the plot that readers get to know Sophia and Charles Mortimer before that transition.
Both of these characters have faults. Sophia is sweet but also holds some anger toward her father for not providing for her. Charles is amiable and friendly but allows his mother to dictate his life. Through several circumstances, they each learn to stand firm in the midst of their situations.
There’s a bit of Jane Austen’s Bingley in Charles Mortimer with his happy nature yet Julie Matern also gives The Governess of Banbury Park a bit of a gothic twist. If you’re looking for a Regency unlike most out there, this is it.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Both of these characters have faults. Sophia is sweet but also holds some anger toward her father for not providing for her. Charles is amiable and friendly but allows his mother to dictate his life. Through several circumstances, they each learn to stand firm in the midst of their situations.
There’s a bit of Jane Austen’s Bingley in Charles Mortimer with his happy nature yet Julie Matern also gives The Governess of Banbury Park a bit of a gothic twist. If you’re looking for a Regency unlike most out there, this is it.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
May 9, 2020
A short, somewhat predictable, and cute regency romance that readers will appreciate. This story has an interesting turn of events when a young girl is left destitute after her father passes away and she quickly goes in search of work as a governess. This story had great potential, but just didn’t quite get there with the character development and about the first half of the book filled with the back story that makes the rest of the book compelling. This story have a bit of a historical Gothic feel to it that is an excellent addition to the tale. Overall readers will find this to be a sweet and enjoyable read.
Genre: historical, regency, romance
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Publication date: April 14, 2020
Number of pages: 175
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: historical, regency, romance
Publisher: Cedar Fort
Publication date: April 14, 2020
Number of pages: 175
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
July 24, 2024
The writing in the first chapter was pathetic. I almost wondered if the author tried to sell this book in a regular market and then decided to go back and add a "religious" chapter to try to sell to a religious publisher.
Consider this sentence, from page 1: " 'I apologize for being the bearer of bad news, Miss Cavanaugh.' The apologetic man winced."
Yikes, using apologize and apologetic in two consecutive sentences?
I almost put the book down.
But, glad I didn't, the story picked up. The plot itself was not shabby, just SO superficial.
For example, why does Sophia not respect the curate? No reason is ever given, he's just not handsome. Why , besides her looks, is Sophia everything that the hero desires?
As a reader you definitely get the feeling that the author didn't do much research into the time period. For example, Sophia is just traipsing about from town to town unescorted, which would have been a cultural affront. She also has an Irish last name, which could have causing some tension in England at this time.
I also hate the cover. Heavily made up would have also been a problem in those days.
Maybe this author should write contemporary romance?
That being said, I would read another by this author, because overall the story was somehow likable.
Consider this sentence, from page 1: " 'I apologize for being the bearer of bad news, Miss Cavanaugh.' The apologetic man winced."
Yikes, using apologize and apologetic in two consecutive sentences?
I almost put the book down.
But, glad I didn't, the story picked up. The plot itself was not shabby, just SO superficial.
For example, why does Sophia not respect the curate? No reason is ever given, he's just not handsome. Why , besides her looks, is Sophia everything that the hero desires?
As a reader you definitely get the feeling that the author didn't do much research into the time period. For example, Sophia is just traipsing about from town to town unescorted, which would have been a cultural affront. She also has an Irish last name, which could have causing some tension in England at this time.
I also hate the cover. Heavily made up would have also been a problem in those days.
Maybe this author should write contemporary romance?
That being said, I would read another by this author, because overall the story was somehow likable.
June 17, 2021
I enjoyed this story. It has been on my Kindle TBR list for a while and I didn't reread the blurb before I started reading it. In my mind I expected a typical governess and single father fall for each other type storyline but that wasn't it at all. There was a lot in the story I didn't expect. I wondered if the author would/could resolve the abusive situation and that didn't turn out how I expected either. Well, maybe the very end I expected but not the twists before getting there. I liked the characters and I liked the idea that sometimes our path doesn't go exactly how we hope but we end up in a better place than we could have dreamed for ourselves.
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: physical and emotional abuse
Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: physical and emotional abuse
May 4, 2020
The Governess of Banbury Park was a fun read. The author, Julie Matern, shows her expertise in writing by developing well-defined characters with interesting attributes and personalities. She builds drama and interest from the very beginning of the story and continues to draw the reader in with twists and turns. The story also has similar elements to historical Gothic and romance novels. It's a well-developed romance and I look forward to reading more books by Matern. I would highly recommend reading this book as well as Matern's first book, The Secret of Haversham House.
Please note that I received a copy of this book, however, this is my honest opinion.
Please note that I received a copy of this book, however, this is my honest opinion.
November 25, 2020
Decent read
An entertaining enough read. Kind of trite and predictable. It's had to look at a time gone by without the taint of modern viewpoints. I don't think the author was as successful as she may have hoped to be in historically accurate reactions. I am not an historian, but there were some very forward thought processes throughout this novel. It was a good read if you are looking for a safe romance with a happy ending. No inappropriate behavior it language. A fun story and an easy read.
An entertaining enough read. Kind of trite and predictable. It's had to look at a time gone by without the taint of modern viewpoints. I don't think the author was as successful as she may have hoped to be in historically accurate reactions. I am not an historian, but there were some very forward thought processes throughout this novel. It was a good read if you are looking for a safe romance with a happy ending. No inappropriate behavior it language. A fun story and an easy read.
November 4, 2020
Enjoyed this well-written Regency novel with a lovely cover. Involves a vicar's daughter left without any way to support herself once her father dies. Kindness by store owners and being fancied by an entitled, carefree nobleman helps to find her an interim governess position resulting in discovering the wife being abused and determined to remedy the situation. A creative plot with a twist and flowery descriptions and analogies makes for an entertaining read.
December 1, 2020
This book was okay for what it was. There was no heart pounding romance or any desire to get to the end. I’m impressed that I actually finished the book. The plot came across as bland and uninteresting, I had little to no connection to the characters, and I was indifferent to the romance.
Overall I probably wouldn’t recommend this to anyone unless they want a quick somewhat bland romance.
Content: Clean
Overall I probably wouldn’t recommend this to anyone unless they want a quick somewhat bland romance.
Content: Clean
January 29, 2021
This is the first book by Julie Matern that I have read and I enjoyed it very much! A triumphant story that proves that good things do come to those that wait and to good people. After the death of her father Sophia is an orphan with nothing and no one. She makes a life for herself. Along the way her life takes many twists and turns, not all pleasant. I liked reading Sophia's journey and the outcome!
September 6, 2021
2.5 Stars
Some of things that annoyed me the most in this book: the amount of whining from every character. The overuse of the exclamation point! And there was so much going on in this 160 page book that it made me dislike it even more. Sophia was annoying, Charles was a coward. The best character was 6 year old Emily. Too many additional plots that just seems too clumpy. Not impressed with this book at all
Some of things that annoyed me the most in this book: the amount of whining from every character. The overuse of the exclamation point! And there was so much going on in this 160 page book that it made me dislike it even more. Sophia was annoying, Charles was a coward. The best character was 6 year old Emily. Too many additional plots that just seems too clumpy. Not impressed with this book at all
October 2, 2020
Some books transport you to another time and place. This wasn't one of those. Another time I probably wouldn't have finished it. But I found that it was nice to have a book I could put down without the agony of wanting to know what would happen next. It was nice to have a book that didn't pull me in and get all of my emotions and imagination working. So in the end I decided it was okay.
February 21, 2023
This was a short but drama filled story! I have been reading Regency stories for many years now and have been exploring at my local library. When I saw this, I know I needed to borrow it and I am so glad I did! I really enjoyed the dialogue between Sophia and Charles as well as the other characters such as the meddlesome Mrs. Mortimer, Belinda, Amelia, Emily, and the cruel Mr. Banbury.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2020
The Governess of Banbury Park is the first book I have read by Julie Matern. She has written a beautiful story. I enjoyed reading this short and sweet tale. I loved Sophia from page one. The chemistry between her and Charles was undeniable. The plot was predictable but still so very good.
I am giving The Governess of Banbury Park five stars. I would love to read more by this author in the future. I recommend it for readers who enjoy sweet historical romance.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I am giving The Governess of Banbury Park five stars. I would love to read more by this author in the future. I recommend it for readers who enjoy sweet historical romance.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
October 25, 2020
So grateful for fiction and happily ever after to escape to. I love the regency era, but I’d have a hard time with the segregation of people by their stations in life. I would definitely be a rule breaker.
August 1, 2021
Great story showing how you have to make changes to your plans when life doesn't work the way you think. Shows that life is not always perfect. Some great characters you love, and some characters you really dislike, but they are important to the story,
January 19, 2021
Sweet light predictable clean and short regency romance. I liked that the protagonist wasn’t a weak simpering woman but a strong character.
January 10, 2022
Stupid characters with absolutely no conflict or personal growth. No real issues to overcome or clear goal by the end. Would definitely not read again, or recommend.
February 17, 2023
Just okay.
October 15, 2020
Sophia finds herself destitute when her last remaining parent dies. She must then seek out employment, and by so doing, finds love and friendship worth so much more than money.
I’ve read a few governess romance novels, and this was nothing like it. Some of the details seemed to be a bit off for the era. Such as vicar’s daughters being unsuitable for marriage to those in higher positions, and the willingness of an asylum to let a stranger near a patient without their guardian. That being said, everyone did get a happy ending even if it was far fetched. My favorite part was when they brought Amelia to her parents.
I’ve read a few governess romance novels, and this was nothing like it. Some of the details seemed to be a bit off for the era. Such as vicar’s daughters being unsuitable for marriage to those in higher positions, and the willingness of an asylum to let a stranger near a patient without their guardian. That being said, everyone did get a happy ending even if it was far fetched. My favorite part was when they brought Amelia to her parents.
August 18, 2021
The Governess of Banburry Park by Julie Matern
This story was very sweet and typical. A young gentile lady becomes a governess because her father did not prepare a dowry for her. Therefore she is destitute and needing employment. Without references finding a position is near impossible.
But then Charles Mortimer, a dashing gentleman, appears and begins falling in love with Sophia. His mother instantly becomes involved and finds her a position as a governess, just to separate the two.
Will they be able to overcome the now huge gap in social status?
This story was very sweet and typical. A young gentile lady becomes a governess because her father did not prepare a dowry for her. Therefore she is destitute and needing employment. Without references finding a position is near impossible.
But then Charles Mortimer, a dashing gentleman, appears and begins falling in love with Sophia. His mother instantly becomes involved and finds her a position as a governess, just to separate the two.
Will they be able to overcome the now huge gap in social status?
September 11, 2024
As the young beautiful Sofia learns of her situation she takes a leap of faith in moving to a place where she is not known. She finds a place that treats her like she is their own daughter, while she continues to find a position as a governess.
Her new role as governess in a house of repute she quickly finds out that there are many odd goings on. Sofia befriends Mrs Banbury and after she is abruptly dismissed by Mr Banbury & returns back to the village she finds out that her friend is in great distress. Sofia appeals to Mr Mortimer for help & together with Miss Mortimer they find a happy ending.
I enjoyed this book. Good, clean regency romance. I recommend to those that enjoy this era of books.
@cedarfort
Her new role as governess in a house of repute she quickly finds out that there are many odd goings on. Sofia befriends Mrs Banbury and after she is abruptly dismissed by Mr Banbury & returns back to the village she finds out that her friend is in great distress. Sofia appeals to Mr Mortimer for help & together with Miss Mortimer they find a happy ending.
I enjoyed this book. Good, clean regency romance. I recommend to those that enjoy this era of books.
@cedarfort
May 1, 2021
This was a fairly good short read. It is predictable but sweet. The relationship between the Sophia and Charles is tender and feels genuine, although hasty. I found the resolution to the conflicts in the story rather disappointing—all too easy. I was happy with the ending.
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