The Misgivings About Miss Prudence

School of Charm #4

by Maggie Dallen

Miss Prudence sees the world in black and white. A convenient way to get through life...until she finds herself battling between right and wrong. Or rather, Mr. Right and Lord Wrong.

Prudence has spent her entire life trying to live up to her great aunt's high expectations. For the most part, she's succeeded. During her time at Miss Grayson's School of Charm, she's smoothed over every last rough edge to become the perfect wife for the wealthy merchant her aunt has in mind.

There's only one area of study that eludes her, and it's one that has become the bane of her existence. Music. Her aunt has a plan to hire a private tutor for intensive one-on-one lessons to fix her weakness, once and for all. The only problem? Her new tutor is the same boy who'd tormented her with his teasing and pranks as a child.

Well, he's not a boy any longer. He's a man...and he might just be her downfall. Or perhaps her salvation. One or the other.

But either way, one thing is clear. By the time their lessons are through, the perfect Miss Prudence will never be the same.

Genres: Romance, Historical Romance, Historical, Regency, Fiction, Historical Fiction, Audiobook

143 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 12, 2020

Reviews

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did feel sorry for Prudence, unwanted by her parents and brought up by a severe and very critical great aunt. Little wonder she lacked in confidence about her appearance and her musical ability. She comes into contact with Lord Damien, her childhood nemesis. Damien also had an unusual background but his guardian was kind and loving. Damien has changed his ways and is encouraging Prudence to gain in confidence in her abilities. They are attracted to each other but Prudence’s cannot believe that someone as handsome as Damien would be serious about her. This was an enjoyable read, as have the others, in this series. I hope Miss Grayson gets her own story. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[B. D. Mann · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you have been following my reviews of this series you will know that, up to this point, I have awarded five-stars for the first three novellas of the series. Unfortunately, the five-star streak ended with this offering. I found the repetitive “woe is me” message to be boring. The uninspiring tactics used by Lord Damian to get Prudence to overcome her obvious inability to excel musically were unbelievable. There really are people who are tone-deaf and are unable to “carry a tune in a bucket with a lid on it.” As I read, I found myself nodding off over and over again. That is not the sort of writing that inspires a five-star review. When you add multiple editing errors to the mix, the best I can award is a solid three-stars for this uninspiring offering.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short & sweet fluffy Regency romance, with low stakes angst. I recommend reading the previous books in the series, and if you like completeness I also recommend reading the Sweet Romance series that precedes this series. This was probably my least favorite book so far in the series because I just couldn’t get invested in the main characters’ stories and it seemed a little rushed.

[Kaley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my favorite book so far. That probably says more about me than anything😂 But I love the childhood rivals to lovers trope, love the way the friendship bloomed into more. I felt for Prudence and the perfectionism. Overall loved it!

[Leena Aluru · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute with great mcs .

My biggest grouse was that it sounded so modern. I wish Historical writers understand the importance of incorporating the ambience and language used in that particular time period. Please note Dukes and Earl's are in existence even today viz. the very popular Duke of Cambridge and Sussex.

[Jenni · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the School of Charm series and it was pretty good. I'm enjoying the series even though they are pretty light and fluffy, loaded with anachronisms and... lots of sniffing.

Prudence Pottermouth has been pulled from the School of Charm because her aunt, who is her only family, doesn't feel she is getting the education she needs to be a perfect wife. And with a marriage contract in the works, her aunt feels she needs special tutoring in music in order to be able to entertain properly in her own household.

Lord Damian grew up knowing Pru, but has lived the life of a rake under the watchful eye of his uncle, a Marquess. In no hurry to ever inherit that title, Damian keeps busy with his love and passion for music, and tutoring society's elite. Called in to help Pru, his unconventional ways really don't deliver. But when her almost betrothed is set to visit, Damian sings Pru's praises at her talent for singing and puts her on display, proudly supporting her. Will Prudence wow everyone with her performance? Will she marry the man intended for her?

I'll answer both for you. No and no.

So this book was okay, not great. I enjoyed the characters' personalities and the jist of the story but I had a hard time getting into the second half and not rolling my eyes in places. First off, I counted the use of the word sniff, sniffed, or sniffling 19 times. It was 18 times too many and drove me crazy. Next up, Damian knew... HE KNEW that Pru just doesn't have musical talent. Yet he fed her to the wolves and embarrassed her by making her sing before a group. WTF?? She knew it was a disaster. The group knew it was a disaster. It did nothing to help her gain her aunt's approval or that of her betrothed. I know that was the point even though Damian doesn't admit that but the girl didn't want to perform and she was forced into it. That's pretty sucky and made me want to throw my Kindle at the wall.

In the course or working with Pru, Damian ends up falling for her and starts to see the real girl behind the snobbish, priggish facade. Pru is equally perplexed at Damian, the scamp from her youth that lived next door. This is an enemies to lovers trope but as the two work closely together in a meager effort to improve her musicality, they develop stronger feelings.

The first half of this book was much better than the second, unfortunately. 3 stars from me on this. Chaste kisses and embraces only.

I'm very eager to read the next in the series because Miss Grayson, the lady that runs the School of Charm, finds her romance. Damian's uncle also appears in that story.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

🛡️🛡️ONE INCREDIBLE JOURNEY🛡️🛡️
Play it again Sam! Maggie delivers with this intoxicating wonder, serving up some heartache, abuse and brutish bullying, weaving a tangled web so intricately and precise, luring you deeper until everything else ceases to exist, launching this gem to staggering heights. Toss in heartbreaking drama, captivating intrigue, intense dislike, nailbiting encounters, escalating suspense and unnerving situations ensue in epic proportions, catapulting this baby to life flawlessly. Dissolving limitations and relaxed restrictions are heightened and exploited, baring the dramatic twists and startling turns, reaching deep for every ounce of strength in a fierce surge of determination, powering through with such exuberance and vigor, wrapping this jewel up sleek, shiny and tight. The attraction and chemistry collides with such force, baring thrilling emotions and undeniable affection, drawing our characters closer, binding them to one another perfectly. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits add depth and diversity, transforming them into lovable personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and vivid descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that makes the storyline explode. Fantastic job Maggie, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.

[Janet · Rating 4 out of 5]

Prudence has spent her entire life trying to live up to her great aunt's high expectations. During her time at Miss Grayson's School of Charm, she's smoothed over every last rough edge to become the perfect wife for the wealthy merchant her aunt has in mind. There's only one area of study that eludes her, and it's one that has become the bane of her existence. Music. Her aunt has a plan to hire a private tutor for intensive one-on-one lessons to fix her weakness, once and for all. The only problem? Her new tutor is her childhood nemesis, Lord Damien.
A beautifully written book that tugged at my heart strings, Pru & Damien had both been unwanted by their parents & lived with relatives, he was luckier in that his uncle cared for him, which the Dowager Demon certainly didn’t have one iota of warmth for Pru. Whilst some of the book was sad other parts were heart warming especially how Damien came to see Pru for herself & fell in love. Pru was as prickly as a hedgehog but eventually let Damien into her heart. the characters had depth & most were lovable but the Dowager was horrid. I’d love for Miss Grayson to have her HEA
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

The School of Charm series by Maggie Dallen is a sweet and satisfying collection of quick reads that are perfect for young readers starting to explore romance. Each story features lovable, relatable characters and follows a light, predictable arc—but in a way that feels cozy and comforting rather than stale.

What I appreciate most is how age-appropriate the content is. There's nothing more than kissing, and the relationships are respectful, kind, and rooted in good friendships. As a parent of tweens just beginning to show interest in romance books, this series has been a fantastic find. The stories provide just enough emotional depth and romantic spark without diving into territory they’re not quite ready for.

I’m giving the series 4 stars—not because anything was lacking, but simply because I usually reserve 5 stars for books I want to reread or that truly wow me. These are quick, sweet reads that I highly recommend—especially if, like me, you started with more intense romance novels at a young age (Flowers in the Attic, anyone?) and are looking for something gentler for your own kids.

[Genesis (geny.reads) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Favorite one so far

I love a good enemies to lovers type of story. This one delivers.

Prudence has all but forgotten to be herself after years of trying to fit in a perfect mold. If she can pass all the expectations set on her by her great aunt, she has a chance to marry and make her own way in life.

Only Damian, her flirtatious childhood enemy turned music tutor , can help her pass her final test. As he spends more time with Pru, he begins to see the potential in her. He makes it his personal mission to help Pru find her voice and amaze others the way she has amazed him.

I loved how these two supported each other throughout the story. Also liked the representation sometimes not shown in this genre (ie she has a fuller figure, he is half gypsy and isn’t ashamed of it)
Overall great read!

[Jessica McAvoy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Prudence goes home to meet her betrothed, but her domineering aunt makes her take music lessons from a man she knew as a boy. The man is heir to a marquess, and hopes to not inherit. He has a passion for music and remembers Prudence as a goody, two shoes who rats out the playmates whenever things get fun. Prudence struggles under her aunt, Damien sees her treatment one day. He begins to see her as more attractive. She begins to see his charm as well. Soon her betrothed comes and she realizes her life will be just like it is under her aunt’s control. She gives that a hard pass. Damien proposes and they get engaged
Liked: liked the idea of young enemies finding each other later and changing their mind. Decent attempt as moving a guy from rake to noble, protector of the powerless.
Disliked: not a very gripping account. It was just boring at times.

[Margaret Watkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tender love story, one that is wrought out of a tarnished background and a tyrannical guardian who would break an already wounded spirit. Having grown up being teased and tormented by Damian, Prudence discovers that he is once more being thrust into her life, but now as a tutor. Things couldn't get worse. Damian dreads meeting Miss goody-two-shoes Prudence, but he is never one to refuse a challenge. The old adversaries meet on new ground and suddenly the truth about the years comes into focus. This novel is sweet, well written, and romantic. Characters from previous books in the series appear in this one too, but it is nevertheless a standalone and comes to a happy close. I received a copy of this novel as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[The Mysterious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Maggie Dallen is a wonderfully talented author who writes to perfection in two of my favorite romance genres, YA (if you like this you’re missing out if you’ve not read her YA books) and Regency Romance. Ive literally loved every book she’s written in either of these genres, and her The Misgivings About Miss Prudence: A Sweet Regency Romance (School of Charm, Book 4) was no exception. Pru and Damian’s Story is a powerful one, with heartache and abuse but also true love perfectly presented. If you’ve read the other stories in this series you won’t be at all disappointed here. (If you’re a newcomer to the series, start at book 1as it’s worth it even though the book can easily be read standalone.). It’s exactly what a well-crafted Regency tale should be, and total fun.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect Prudence

Prudence was expected to be perfect! Constantly berated and criticized by her aunt from eating to just breathing well a lifetime of this can make anyone childish and judgemental! Damien aka Lord Damien is a reluctant heir to a Marquess who would rather his uncle remarry so he can pursue his passion in music! Damien was Pru childhood nemesis but was he! Jealousy on Pru's part because his uncle truly loved him and raised with compassion! Pru WA a tattle tale and afraid to get dirty! Pru is perfect in some many ways except music! Many years of being starved and called fat she never allowed herself to feel well Damian is the complete opposite! Opposites do attract don't they?

[Danielle Warner · Rating 4 out of 5]

well written clean story

This was a fun read and the author has a way with words and description.

I have say though that I started skipping some of the descriptions within the dialog.

I got a bit bored. Too much descriptions of feelings.
More story is needed not every bit of dialog needed a paragraph of description.

However, the author is great at writing smooth flowing descriptions and not necessarily any relative phrases. That is amazing.

I would love to see more developed in the plot and story, rather than focusing just on the feelings/emotions of the H and h.

Develop the plot not just the characters. Balance those descriptions more.

Still overall a fun series.

[Bailey · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the series by this author. I bought the book bundle that is sold on her website for a discount. I’ve said when reviewing the other 3 books that this author frustrates me because she is so good in what she writes but she chooses to write and include so little, often choosing to skip past scenes that would have added value and entertainment and choosing to not give supporting or side characters as much attention or backstory as most authors do, leaving their characters undeveloped or unfinished. That being said I think she came closer to getting it write in this book. Each book so far seems to be getting longer and adding more development and this one was much closer to fully satisfying me.

[Roslyn Stillman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the fourth in the series School of Charm and it is the saddest. It is beautifully written with moments of sadness, joy and lots of understanding. Again Ms Dallen has proven she has a brilliant way of putting emotions into words. It leaves you wanting to jump for joy at the understanding and wonderfully written character of each of the characters. I found it hard to put down. Don’t be put off by me saying this is the saddest because love often comes from sadness and this book will leave you feeling wonderful. There is no sex in this book. I received this as an ARC and freely do my review.

[Raquel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prudence has always been the more stern, good two shoes of the bunch. With a guardian that's always put her down not much could be worse until Damian the boy who teased and tormented her comes back into her life as nonother then her tutor. Will Damian manage to teach Pru to be the perfect musician her guardian demands or will he learn what hides behind Pru's prim front. And will he convince her that he's not her old tormenter and could be so much more? My heart hurt for Pru and the way her horrible guardian treated her but thankfully Damian is there to stand by her side once he learns and sees the real Prudence.

Voluntarily read and reviewed an arc of this book.

[Reva Parks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Prudence, we know from other School of Charm books, is quite the goody two shoes, always pointing out rule-breakers. Imagine her horror when the rebel par excellance is to become her music tutor, that same neighbor playboy next door who teased and bullied her no end growing up. But turns out they have much in common and can understand one another completely, becoming the cure for one another's imperfections! Her great aunt has taught her how to hate herself but Lord Damien, who also lost his own scandal producing parents, was lucky enough to be brought up by his kind uncle and can love her enough to prove to her she is loveable. This is a really good book!

[Helen Gaye Brewster · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Prudence has been brought up by her aunt, who has very high expectations and very little compassion. She demands her niece be perfect at all the things that are expected of a young woman of society to be able to marry well. She sends Miss Prudence to the School of Charm where she is excellent at all the womanly arts except one. Music. Try as she might Miss Prudence cannot become accomplished at piano or singing. Her frustrated aunt brings her home and hires a young man who is a very popular music teacher among London’s high society to make sure Prudence can excel at music so she can marry the man her aunt believes is a suitable match.

Unfortunately, Prudence does not like her teacher at all! The played together as children and she remembers he childishly annoyed her and he remembers her as being stuffy and no fun. But, as he teaches her to forget being perfect and to find joy in music, her heart begins to melt and sparks begin to fly between them.

Miss Prudence’s friends at the School of Charm encourage her to follow her heart and make a love match instead of marrying the man her aunt has chosen.

I didn’t expect to enjoy the books in this series as much as I have, but Maggie Dallen has written these so well they hold my attention and I look forward to reading each one to see what happens to each of the girls at the School of Charm.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another Great Story in this Amazing Series.💖📚💖
I adored Pru and Damian’s book. Prudence had not been a standout to me up to this point, but oh how she blossoms and shines as their long time acquaintance grows and changes! What a beautiful journey and captivating series this has been, with each young lady’s story bringing something unique and different. I’ve enjoyed the friendships and bonds they’ve formed in the progression, and am so anxious for Miss Grayson’s (the School of Charm’s headmistress) book releasing in December!

[Lyndsay · Rating 2 out of 5]

Okay, at least this one was a little bit different. I appreciate that the love interest didn't fall in love with Prudence the second he met her (or rather met her again I guess). So, thank you for that. And maybe I'd give this book 2.5, but once again the characters just do stupid things and that just bothers me. Also, I can't do 1/2 stars (please GoodReads add that feature!). I really thought this would be the last book of the series but now I see there are a whole lot more. I, however, plan on taking a break from the series.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Music flows through us all. As you might remember, Prudence is quiet rigid. There is no fun for her to be had with good reason. People around you always putting her down is bound to cause her to think herself inadequate. Damian enters her life and shows her that even if we are not perfect, we are perfect for ourselves. This is a sweet wonderfully told story.

I received a complimentary copy from the author.

[Sharon Parker Macklin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well I wasn't expecting Pru's story...

I admit that there's ONE complaint I have about this whole series and that is that I wish the books were longer. I enjoyed reading this whole School of Charm series and author Maggie Dallen tackled Pru's emotional abuse, rejection and neglect with a depth I didn't think she could do well in a novella but I was wrong. Thank you Maggie... Keep up the good work!

[BlueJeansAndTeacups · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damian and Prudence; what a ride! He's a cad. She's a prig. How could they ever find a connection? I enjoyed this installment of The School of Charm and watching these 2 childhood rivals peal back each others layers and reveal something worthy of pursuit.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I purchased the collection for an amazing sale price directly from the author. All opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation

[Allyssa Painter · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first regency romance I've read. I took a chance because I love other books by Maggie Dallen, and I'm glad I did. While it was a bit different than what I'm used to, it was a great read and I really enjoyed it. I would definitely read another regency book based on my experience with this one, especially is Mrs. Dallen is the author!

[Alisha Grant · Rating 3 out of 5]

Miss Prudence has been raised to be the perfect wife by her fault finding Aunt and to achieve her last bit of perfection has Damien piano teacher her childhood neighbour. Pru and Damien are each so determined not to repeat their parent's mistakes. Watching this couples interactions as each discovers different sides of themselves as love blossoms between them was a great read.

[Rosemary Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

When you are verbally abused from a young age, it's hard to see your own self worth.
This story brings to people back together, to try and produce some musical talent from someone who had failed to show any ability in past 18 years.
However, they both have demons and ghosts to combat, before they can see each other for the true personalities they are.

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfectly imperfect

Surprisingly a very sweet story. I did not like Prudence much in the other books. She was stuck up and rude. But after reading her back story and what she’s been exposed to it makes sense. Enemies to Lovers is my favourite love story. Looking forward to reading about Miss Grayson.

[Kathryn · Rating 3 out of 5]

I kind of think this was the least-believable match in this series yet, but I guess it worked :) The author seems to enjoy having people with opposite personalities fall in love. I do wish music was a little bit of a bigger part of the story, since that is kind of what brings the together. But, anyway, it was fun and I always love a happy ending.