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The Traveling Matchmaker #4
Beatrice Goes to Brighton
A lady finds new love by the seaside in this romance by “the best of the Regency writers” (Kirkus Reviews).
Lady Beatrice Marsham has finally been widowed from her husband—and now her family is trying to saddle her with another, equally awful one. She has no choice but to flee by stagecoach to the Brighton seaside—where she meets Miss Hannah Pym, who is determined to find her a proper match.
The traveling matchmaker has a candidate in mind: Lord Alistair Munro. But he has heard the gossip about Lady Beatrice. According to the ton, she is nothing but a heartless flirt. Miss Pym and the Brighton air are working their charms on the lady, however—and she will soon be working her charms on him . . .
Originally written under the name Marion Chesney.
Lady Beatrice Marsham has finally been widowed from her husband—and now her family is trying to saddle her with another, equally awful one. She has no choice but to flee by stagecoach to the Brighton seaside—where she meets Miss Hannah Pym, who is determined to find her a proper match.
The traveling matchmaker has a candidate in mind: Lord Alistair Munro. But he has heard the gossip about Lady Beatrice. According to the ton, she is nothing but a heartless flirt. Miss Pym and the Brighton air are working their charms on the lady, however—and she will soon be working her charms on him . . .
Originally written under the name Marion Chesney.
151 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1991
113 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Marion Chesney
149 books762 followersMarion Chesney Gibbons
aka: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, M.C. Beaton, Sarah Chester.
Marion Chesney was born on 1936 in Glasgow, Scotland, UK, and started her first job as a bookseller in charge of the fiction department in John Smith & Sons Ltd. While bookselling, by chance, she got an offer from the Scottish Daily Mail to review variety shows and quickly rose to be their theatre critic. She left Smith’s to join Scottish Field magazine as a secretary in the advertising department, without any shorthand or typing, but quickly got the job of fashion editor instead. She then moved to the Scottish Daily Express where she reported mostly on crime. This was followed by a move to Fleet Street to the Daily Express where she became chief woman reporter. After marrying Harry Scott Gibbons and having a son, Charles, Marion went to the United States where Harry had been offered the job of editor of the Oyster Bay Guardian. When that didn’t work out, they went to Virginia and Marion worked as a waitress in a greasy spoon on the Jefferson Davies in Alexandria while Harry washed the dishes. Both then got jobs on Rupert Murdoch’s new tabloid, The Star, and moved to New York.
Anxious to spend more time at home with her small son, Marion, urged by her husband, started to write historical romances in 1977. After she had written over 100 of them under her maiden name, Marion Chesney, and under the pseudonyms: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, and Sarah Chester, she getting fed up with 1714 to 1910, she began to write detectives stories in 1985 under the pseudonym of M. C. Beaton. On a trip from the States to Sutherland on holiday, a course at a fishing school inspired the first Constable Hamish Macbeth story. They returned to Britain and bought a croft house and croft in Sutherland where Harry reared a flock of black sheep. But Charles was at school, in London so when he finished and both tired of the long commute to the north of Scotland, they moved to the Cotswolds where Agatha Raisin was created.
aka: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, M.C. Beaton, Sarah Chester.
Marion Chesney was born on 1936 in Glasgow, Scotland, UK, and started her first job as a bookseller in charge of the fiction department in John Smith & Sons Ltd. While bookselling, by chance, she got an offer from the Scottish Daily Mail to review variety shows and quickly rose to be their theatre critic. She left Smith’s to join Scottish Field magazine as a secretary in the advertising department, without any shorthand or typing, but quickly got the job of fashion editor instead. She then moved to the Scottish Daily Express where she reported mostly on crime. This was followed by a move to Fleet Street to the Daily Express where she became chief woman reporter. After marrying Harry Scott Gibbons and having a son, Charles, Marion went to the United States where Harry had been offered the job of editor of the Oyster Bay Guardian. When that didn’t work out, they went to Virginia and Marion worked as a waitress in a greasy spoon on the Jefferson Davies in Alexandria while Harry washed the dishes. Both then got jobs on Rupert Murdoch’s new tabloid, The Star, and moved to New York.
Anxious to spend more time at home with her small son, Marion, urged by her husband, started to write historical romances in 1977. After she had written over 100 of them under her maiden name, Marion Chesney, and under the pseudonyms: Ann Fairfax, Jennie Tremaine, Helen Crampton, Charlotte Ward, and Sarah Chester, she getting fed up with 1714 to 1910, she began to write detectives stories in 1985 under the pseudonym of M. C. Beaton. On a trip from the States to Sutherland on holiday, a course at a fishing school inspired the first Constable Hamish Macbeth story. They returned to Britain and bought a croft house and croft in Sutherland where Harry reared a flock of black sheep. But Charles was at school, in London so when he finished and both tired of the long commute to the north of Scotland, they moved to the Cotswolds where Agatha Raisin was created.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
February 7, 2019
Rating: 4 1/2 stars
Another dazzling turn with Miss Pym & crew as she and her precociously clever footman, Benjamin, venture to Brighton. The Prince of Wales and his entourage have made Brighton quite fashionable. Like any fan girl, our Traveling Matchmaker is dying to meet HRH.
Miss Pym soon meets a bitter widow and a high-stepping gentleman during her travels. Things take quite an interesting turn as Hannah is swept into various situations not always quite of her making. Her kindness, honesty and wisdom keep her above things as usual, endearing her to some, and making enemies of less sterling types. It is when she returns home to reconnect with Sir George that Miss Pym faces her greatest challenge of all.
I continue to be surprised and delighted by this series. The biggest disappointment will be the final book and the end of a wonderful, witty series with amazing historical detail.
Another dazzling turn with Miss Pym & crew as she and her precociously clever footman, Benjamin, venture to Brighton. The Prince of Wales and his entourage have made Brighton quite fashionable. Like any fan girl, our Traveling Matchmaker is dying to meet HRH.
Miss Pym soon meets a bitter widow and a high-stepping gentleman during her travels. Things take quite an interesting turn as Hannah is swept into various situations not always quite of her making. Her kindness, honesty and wisdom keep her above things as usual, endearing her to some, and making enemies of less sterling types. It is when she returns home to reconnect with Sir George that Miss Pym faces her greatest challenge of all.
I continue to be surprised and delighted by this series. The biggest disappointment will be the final book and the end of a wonderful, witty series with amazing historical detail.
September 24, 2023
Miss Pym! Miss Pym!
The delightful Miss Pym is traveling to Brighton to visit the baths, so they say. She is also going to be matchmaking, cause that’s what she does.
But she has her work cut out for her. A cold, indifferent Lady Beatrice and a colder, and more indifferent Lord Alistair Munro have a great feeling of hatred for each other.
How can Miss Pym turn that hatred into love?
The story is full of humor and mayhem and a cast of characters that will have you laughing with them. Or at them.
Five stars. 💫💫💫💫💫
The delightful Miss Pym is traveling to Brighton to visit the baths, so they say. She is also going to be matchmaking, cause that’s what she does.
But she has her work cut out for her. A cold, indifferent Lady Beatrice and a colder, and more indifferent Lord Alistair Munro have a great feeling of hatred for each other.
How can Miss Pym turn that hatred into love?
The story is full of humor and mayhem and a cast of characters that will have you laughing with them. Or at them.
Five stars. 💫💫💫💫💫
April 8, 2020
This series gets better with every book, and this one was great! Benjamin speaks and turns out to be an absolute delight, bathing machines, a hero who walks around stark naked on the beach, a heroine being forced into marriage, developments with Sir George, and everyone in Brighton mistaking Hannah for Hungarian royalty. Highly recommend this series on audio if you are in the mood for fun and fluff.
January 3, 2021
Regency, Kindle edition. This was a kisses only, witty,
mostly happy, little love story by the late M.C. Beaton.
Lady Beatrice's imbiber, gambler spouse died. Her parents
insisted she wed Sir Geoffrey who made a fool of himself.
Bea distrusted and disliked men, flirted w/ them & then
rejected them.
Bea & Hannah (a former housekeeper who inherited from
her late employer) met on the public coach to Brighton.
These 2 women grew close over time. Han's deaf & dumb
(not!) footman Benjamin traveled too. Bea was forcibly
removed from the coach & Han was left behind.
Han encountered Sir Alistair (the hero) who helped her &
Ben catch up w/ the coach. He acted chilly toward the subject
of flirty Bea. Gradually the H + h felt a mutual attraction.
I wanted more time with these folks, especially Ben who
was a scene-stealer.
mostly happy, little love story by the late M.C. Beaton.
Lady Beatrice's imbiber, gambler spouse died. Her parents
insisted she wed Sir Geoffrey who made a fool of himself.
Bea distrusted and disliked men, flirted w/ them & then
rejected them.
Bea & Hannah (a former housekeeper who inherited from
her late employer) met on the public coach to Brighton.
These 2 women grew close over time. Han's deaf & dumb
(not!) footman Benjamin traveled too. Bea was forcibly
removed from the coach & Han was left behind.
Han encountered Sir Alistair (the hero) who helped her &
Ben catch up w/ the coach. He acted chilly toward the subject
of flirty Bea. Gradually the H + h felt a mutual attraction.
I wanted more time with these folks, especially Ben who
was a scene-stealer.
February 7, 2014
In this fourth volume, Miss Pym is on her way to Brighton to see the sea again and becomes involved in another wild adventure. Traveling on the coach is one Lady Beatrice Marsham, who at first seems very cold and distant. When Lady Beatrice is taken away by a rough gentleman, Hannah becomes convinced that Lady Beatrice was taken by force and not of her own free will as Lady Beatrice insisted. With the help of Lord Alistair Munro, a guest at the coaching inn, and her clever, sneaky footman, Hannah sets off for Brighton and becomes involved in her wildest adventure yet as she tries to help Lady Beatrice and match the lady with Lord Alistair despite numerous obstacles, including the fact that the lady and the gentleman hate each other. All the while Hannah struggles with her feelings for Sir George Clarence, trying to convince herself that what she feels is friendship. Upon returning home, Sir George has an unhappy surprise for Hannah and it's up to Benjamin to rescue his employer from a broken heart. This novel has some lighthearted funny moments mixed with dangerous adventure. The romance plot is as usual unrealistic as the lady and the gentleman barely know each other, though it's better than most of Chesney's unrealistic romantic plots. I liked this novel better than the previous one I read and look forward to reading more about Hannah Pym.
August 4, 2018
Again. I enjoy crazy side characters much better than the main romantic couple.
July 9, 2021
This is the 4th book in the series and for me this was the best. Unlike previous stories in this one there is not much happening in the stage coach or Enroute.
The plot itself was delightful with lots of twists and turns , loads of funny characters including the Prince of wales and Miss Pym’s Forman Benjamin who is o longer dead and dumb.
It was hilarious to read and the entire story was captivating from beginning to end and the plot never lost the track.
I am so in love with series that I can’t wait to red read them again and again
The plot itself was delightful with lots of twists and turns , loads of funny characters including the Prince of wales and Miss Pym’s Forman Benjamin who is o longer dead and dumb.
It was hilarious to read and the entire story was captivating from beginning to end and the plot never lost the track.
I am so in love with series that I can’t wait to red read them again and again
August 10, 2023
More exciting adventure for Miss Hannah Pym and her faithful footman, Benjamin
Once again, Hannah is the star of the show, along with her faithful, cockney footman, Benjamin, in this quirky Regency novel. Adorable Benjamin continues to be a major source of the comedy of errors portion of this novel because of his many humorously manipulative efforts to protect Hannah and make her happy.
The "enemies to lovers" romance plot between the titular Beatrice and handsome Lord Alistair only manages to achieve an HEA, as is the case for all the romantic subplots in this series, because of the heroic matchmaking efforts of Hannah in throwing the foot-dragging lovers together.
It is ideal to read all of the books in this series, and to read them sequentially, in order to experience the complete arc of Hannah's delightfully engaging story, especially her budding romance with Sir George, which also stretches across all six books.
I experienced this novel as an audiobook. The narrator does a good job.
Once again, Hannah is the star of the show, along with her faithful, cockney footman, Benjamin, in this quirky Regency novel. Adorable Benjamin continues to be a major source of the comedy of errors portion of this novel because of his many humorously manipulative efforts to protect Hannah and make her happy.
The "enemies to lovers" romance plot between the titular Beatrice and handsome Lord Alistair only manages to achieve an HEA, as is the case for all the romantic subplots in this series, because of the heroic matchmaking efforts of Hannah in throwing the foot-dragging lovers together.
It is ideal to read all of the books in this series, and to read them sequentially, in order to experience the complete arc of Hannah's delightfully engaging story, especially her budding romance with Sir George, which also stretches across all six books.
I experienced this novel as an audiobook. The narrator does a good job.
May 13, 2022
Definitely better than the previous parts of the series. Hannah and Benjamin were great. It was funny (more than the previous ones), and even the love story was more enjoyable. Most of all, there was, more than on average in Chesney's books, harsh satire (critics) of that time, social rules, living conditions, etc., as always more or less hidden behind a wit, but if you are a keen reader of the author (or books about that era) you will see it clearly.
[4-4.5 stars]
[4-4.5 stars]
October 7, 2025
This is so very clearly my catnip wow! This is the fourth book in the Traveling Matchmaker series in which Hannah Pym, former housekeeper, is given an unexpectedly large sum of money and decides to travel the length of England and meddle in other people’s affairs for the better while she’s at it. This one takes place in Bath, she rescues Lady Beatrice who’s been forced to enter various marriages by her money-hungry family. There’s her hilarious footman, a sweet romance, Prinny, mistaken identities, the early days of bathing and Marion Chesney’s delightfully uncomplicated and bright writing.
The best kind of escapism.
The best kind of escapism.
December 10, 2021
2021 bk 371. Off she goes again - this time to Brighton. Miss Pym is enjoying the ride, but one of her fellow passengers isn't so much. A recently widowed young woman has been pressured into marrying a second brute - escaping to Brighton should work she thinks, until said Brute follows her and abducts her from the coach in front of Miss Pym. On finally reaching Brighton, Miss Pym finds herself mistaken for a mysterious foreign royal, takes on the brute and his mother, takes the young lady as a friend, has adventures bathing in the sea and finally resolves all issues. Another fun read!
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April 12, 2013I remember reading a slew of Marion Chesney novels when my children were very young. They were just the right kind of light, mindless entertainment that I needed at the time. I had to read things that were very put-downable … books that would not consume me. My free time to read was very limited.
Basically, all of the books in any given Marion Chesney series were the same book. She had a formula, and stuck to it. She changed names, places and circumstances, but the basic plots remained identical. They were all set during the Regency (a period in history that I still adore to this day), and they were all usually under 200 pages each. The writing was simplistic, and really gave you nothing to ponder. These books fit the bill for me perfectly at the time.
Considering the number of books she has cranked out (Wikipedia lists 106 books under her own name and her pseudonyms), I’m not surprised that she does not write “great works of fiction”.
So I figured that since they were really all the same book, the same review would suffice!
Basically, all of the books in any given Marion Chesney series were the same book. She had a formula, and stuck to it. She changed names, places and circumstances, but the basic plots remained identical. They were all set during the Regency (a period in history that I still adore to this day), and they were all usually under 200 pages each. The writing was simplistic, and really gave you nothing to ponder. These books fit the bill for me perfectly at the time.
Considering the number of books she has cranked out (Wikipedia lists 106 books under her own name and her pseudonyms), I’m not surprised that she does not write “great works of fiction”.
So I figured that since they were really all the same book, the same review would suffice!
August 5, 2018
I really didn't like the heroine, Miss Pym, all that much in this book which is surprising because I loved her in Deborah Goes to Dover. I also found the story a little on the ridiculous side and I didn't care for the lusty overtones particularly with the gross, predatory villain who was obsessed with Lady Beatrice. . I know that may seem the point of a villain but in regency romances they are usually handled with a more lighter or comical tone. Or maybe the villain was meant to be comical and it just didn't translate to me. Anyway, what saved this from being a one star rating was the fun and endearing character Benjamin. He helped bring heart and humor to the story.
November 22, 2011
I think out of the 4 Travelling Matchmaker books that I have read so far this has got to be my least favourite. I just didn't like Beatrice. Oh she is shown very well to be the misunderstood, damaged woman who after a disastrous fist marriage hates all men and does nothing but flirt with them, make them fall in love with her, and then takes it no further - because, after all, men are heartless... aren't they? But something was just a little off with her. I think it could be that she pretty much forgot all about Hannah after she got the guy until she was brought back to her mind.
This book has all of the predictable elements. Sworn man hater falls in love within days with the guy who hates her. Yeah, because me didn't see that one coming a mile away.
Still, a good story and a quick read.
This book has all of the predictable elements. Sworn man hater falls in love within days with the guy who hates her. Yeah, because me didn't see that one coming a mile away.
Still, a good story and a quick read.
April 13, 2015
Another great book by M C Beaton. This one is from the travelling matchmaker series. The heroine and matchmaker, Miss Pym, and her new footman, Benjamin, are on the stagecoach, when they meet Lady Beatrice Marsham. An exciting story follows, with unexpected happenings, as Beatrice escapes an unsuitable liaison and her less than ideal parents.
Hannah Pym takes it upon herself to find a more suitable partner for Beatrice. The way she comes to the aid of Beatrice with the help of Benjamin, makes for entertaining reading, there are laugh aloud moments as well as the drama and romance.
It is impossible to predict how things will transpire, and I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a spot of romance, some comedy, some drama and a ripping good yarn.
Hannah Pym takes it upon herself to find a more suitable partner for Beatrice. The way she comes to the aid of Beatrice with the help of Benjamin, makes for entertaining reading, there are laugh aloud moments as well as the drama and romance.
It is impossible to predict how things will transpire, and I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a spot of romance, some comedy, some drama and a ripping good yarn.
June 22, 2013
A woman is freed from life as a servant by an inheritance and travels around England (by horse drawn coach) playing matchmaker between unlikely couples – in this case a bitter widow (who is fleeing an arranged marriage) and a confirmed bachelor.
I’ve read quite a few of the books in this series and this is one of the better ones – full of mild humour and clearly defined scoundrels / heroes.
A few hours can be entertainingly filled reading this book.
I’ve read quite a few of the books in this series and this is one of the better ones – full of mild humour and clearly defined scoundrels / heroes.
A few hours can be entertainingly filled reading this book.
May 26, 2016
3.5 stars - I read several Marion Chesney Regency romances many, many years ago when they first came out and enjoyed them immensely - feather-weight, charming, clean and fun brain candy, but also providing wonderful information about the period. This title was offered on Kindle for a bargain price, I was at the beach for a couple days and between books - perfect for a re-read! Her books stand up well after so many years and still offer a quick, light, enjoyable read - perfect for summer!
September 20, 2014
Beatrice is proud and haughty, but it is only a veneer used to protect her from the abuse and unhappiness of life. And then comes Miss Pym, to make her laugh and learn to be human again. I adore Miss Pym and Benjamin. I love how loyal they both are to their friends, to each other. So well written and so very funny in the best possible way.
July 10, 2014
This was a nice light, fast vacation re-read. Hannah and the reader get to experience Regency-style swimming - women clothed and backed into the water in a horse-drawn cart, men walking into the water in the buff - entirely separate events.
October 21, 2020
Another easy to read books about Hannah pym and her adventures around the country and trying to set people up with each other who are well suited
October 20, 2017
Benjamin is hilarious!
December 9, 2020
Miss Pym is at it again
Former housekeeper turned impromptu traveling matchmaker, Miss Hannah Pym, is off on Another one of her adventures. On her way to Brighton, she encounters the newly widowed Lady Beatrice who is fleeing to the seaside resort to avoid a marriage to a man her elderly parents have betrothed her to. But partway there, Lady Beatrice is Abducted by her new fiancé while Hannah Pym Is left behind as a Cruel prank. Thankfully lord Alastair Monro, a friend to the prince regent, shows up and befriends the abandoned Miss Pym.
Can Hannah convince the avowed bachelor Lord Monro to fall for the widowed ice queen or is her holiday to Brighton all washed up?
—
I really love these little romances. Hannah once again is my favorite character in the series which is good considering she’s one of the main characters for sure. Her idiosyncrasies and personality shines through as do the other characters. There’s a bit of a surprise about Benjamin who is her new foot men in this book. But I don’t want to spoil what it is.
Beatrice is definitely an ice queen and Alistair a rogue. I loved them dearly. There’s several side plots going on that all sort of weave together to support the romance. And a large part of this really reminded me of Sanditon except for this was written before the mini series on PBS happened.
In all I really liked the book.
Five Stars.
Former housekeeper turned impromptu traveling matchmaker, Miss Hannah Pym, is off on Another one of her adventures. On her way to Brighton, she encounters the newly widowed Lady Beatrice who is fleeing to the seaside resort to avoid a marriage to a man her elderly parents have betrothed her to. But partway there, Lady Beatrice is Abducted by her new fiancé while Hannah Pym Is left behind as a Cruel prank. Thankfully lord Alastair Monro, a friend to the prince regent, shows up and befriends the abandoned Miss Pym.
Can Hannah convince the avowed bachelor Lord Monro to fall for the widowed ice queen or is her holiday to Brighton all washed up?
—
I really love these little romances. Hannah once again is my favorite character in the series which is good considering she’s one of the main characters for sure. Her idiosyncrasies and personality shines through as do the other characters. There’s a bit of a surprise about Benjamin who is her new foot men in this book. But I don’t want to spoil what it is.
Beatrice is definitely an ice queen and Alistair a rogue. I loved them dearly. There’s several side plots going on that all sort of weave together to support the romance. And a large part of this really reminded me of Sanditon except for this was written before the mini series on PBS happened.
In all I really liked the book.
Five Stars.
February 21, 2023
A very short trip on the coach for Miss Pym this time as it only took the stagecoach 6 hours to travel from London to Brighton in the 1800 (a trip that only takes 1 hour by express train nowadays). As Miss Pym was a magnet for troubles, no matter how short the trip was, there was still time for a couple of incidents to happen. However, the majority of the story unfolded at the destination, Brighton, in full view of High Society. Miss Pym's treacherous situation was thrown into the highlight and readers were reminded over and over again that Miss Pym sat nowhere in the Social rank, no longer a servant, but definitely not a lady.
I devoured the book, it's very short anyway, but I don't like it. Lots of stuff were implausible and too ridiculous to be brush off as "this is just fiction". It almost feel like a Puss in Boots fairy tale for Miss Pym. The romance between our new pair, Lady Beatrice and Lord Alistair, didn't take central place, and wasn't given enough time to brew, so while their circumstances are promising, the romance was not there.
But the most disappointing thing for me is at the very end. I had to read the whole book to get to the part where Miss Pym met Sir George once again and it was a massive setback. I was so disappointed in Sir George.
I devoured the book, it's very short anyway, but I don't like it. Lots of stuff were implausible and too ridiculous to be brush off as "this is just fiction". It almost feel like a Puss in Boots fairy tale for Miss Pym. The romance between our new pair, Lady Beatrice and Lord Alistair, didn't take central place, and wasn't given enough time to brew, so while their circumstances are promising, the romance was not there.
But the most disappointing thing for me is at the very end. I had to read the whole book to get to the part where Miss Pym met Sir George once again and it was a massive setback. I was so disappointed in Sir George.
October 15, 2023
UPDATE: After completely the series, I discovered that I enjoyed the stories after BEATRICE. Perhaps I wasn’t in the right frame of mind when I listened to this book (or it simply wasn’t my favorite). Nevertheless, I plan on re-listening to the last story (the series conclusion) and can see myself revisiting the entire series at some point. Although this series is filled with antics and ridiculous behavior, sometimes that’s okay and can lighten the day.
ORIGINAL POST:
MY RATING GUIDE: Not 3 Stars for me.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= NOPE; NOT FOR ME; 3= This was fun/okay; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
England (early 1800’s) ~
Miss Hannah Pym, at 45, is the former housekeeper of a wealthy but reclusive man in Kenningston. When her employer dies, Hannah is bequeathed with a generous gift of 5000 pounds in appreciation for her 33yrs of service. Considering her sudden financial gain, Hannah decides to indulge a little. For a time, she will travel throughout England by stagecoach and experience life through the sights and the people she meets.
Hannah is on her fourth stagecoach adventure in BEATRICE GOES TO BRIGHTON, (bk 4 of 6) Excited with her matchmaking success on her 3 previous journeys, Miss Pym has meddling again on her mind. But this trip presents different challenges than her earlier trips.
Comments ~
1) BEATRICE GOES TO BRIGHTON is bk4 in MC Beaton/Marion Chesney’s “The Traveling Matchmaker series.” BGTB could be read as a Standalone tile but a story arc runs throughout the series loosely connecting the books. (I actually preferred the first book over the titles that have followed).
2) I purchased and listened to the audiobook of BGTB. Helen Lisanti’s performance was fine, actually quite good. I have no complaints there.
3) I simply thought BGTB was too silly most of the time. I didn’t find the characters all that likable (with the exception of one gentleman). After the first book, I was curious whether or not Miss Pym would be able to match herself to the gentleman she cares for. But I feel less invested in the end result after finishing BGTB. I have purchased 2 audiobooks in this series but am unlikely to buy any more. I only recommend this book/series to readers who are okay with busybody MCs and silliness.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on a few occasion.
VIOLENCE - PG.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - G/PG. No scenes of intimacy. Kisses, embraces, apparently “acceptable” nude bathing for the men (mentioned).
ORIGINAL POST:
MY RATING GUIDE: Not 3 Stars for me.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= NOPE; NOT FOR ME; 3= This was fun/okay; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I liked it a lot; 5= I Loved it, it was great! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
England (early 1800’s) ~
Miss Hannah Pym, at 45, is the former housekeeper of a wealthy but reclusive man in Kenningston. When her employer dies, Hannah is bequeathed with a generous gift of 5000 pounds in appreciation for her 33yrs of service. Considering her sudden financial gain, Hannah decides to indulge a little. For a time, she will travel throughout England by stagecoach and experience life through the sights and the people she meets.
Hannah is on her fourth stagecoach adventure in BEATRICE GOES TO BRIGHTON, (bk 4 of 6) Excited with her matchmaking success on her 3 previous journeys, Miss Pym has meddling again on her mind. But this trip presents different challenges than her earlier trips.
Comments ~
1) BEATRICE GOES TO BRIGHTON is bk4 in MC Beaton/Marion Chesney’s “The Traveling Matchmaker series.” BGTB could be read as a Standalone tile but a story arc runs throughout the series loosely connecting the books. (I actually preferred the first book over the titles that have followed).
2) I purchased and listened to the audiobook of BGTB. Helen Lisanti’s performance was fine, actually quite good. I have no complaints there.
3) I simply thought BGTB was too silly most of the time. I didn’t find the characters all that likable (with the exception of one gentleman). After the first book, I was curious whether or not Miss Pym would be able to match herself to the gentleman she cares for. But I feel less invested in the end result after finishing BGTB. I have purchased 2 audiobooks in this series but am unlikely to buy any more. I only recommend this book/series to readers who are okay with busybody MCs and silliness.
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Yes. Strong language is used on a few occasion.
VIOLENCE - PG.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - G/PG. No scenes of intimacy. Kisses, embraces, apparently “acceptable” nude bathing for the men (mentioned).
November 1, 2023
Lady Beatrice is a widow- a happy widow at that. But now her father has promised her in marriage to another brutish man so she decides to travel by coach to Brighton. Hopefully, but the time she comes back, those hopes will have been dashed. She intends to be cold to the other coach passengers but, of course, one of them is Miss Hannah Pym. The others include a dumpy man, a woman with a child, a soldier, and a small woman with big eyes.
At the first stop, a few things happen. Lady Beatrice is taken by a brutish man into another carriage. She says it is of her own free will but Miss Pym is not convinced. Benjamin, her footman who was thought not to have hearing or speech is found to have both. She is left behind but is helped by Lord Alistair.
Miss Pym is at it again though, trying to convince Lord Alistair that Lady Beatrice is not quite the harridan she appears while convincing Lady Beatrice that Lord Alistair is going to be her best choice if she doesn't want to marry the brute.
A little disappointing because this one isn't nearly as crazy as the last one but still a nice addition to the series.
I liked that we got more in the way of Miss Pym and her budding relationship with Sir George.
At the first stop, a few things happen. Lady Beatrice is taken by a brutish man into another carriage. She says it is of her own free will but Miss Pym is not convinced. Benjamin, her footman who was thought not to have hearing or speech is found to have both. She is left behind but is helped by Lord Alistair.
Miss Pym is at it again though, trying to convince Lord Alistair that Lady Beatrice is not quite the harridan she appears while convincing Lady Beatrice that Lord Alistair is going to be her best choice if she doesn't want to marry the brute.
A little disappointing because this one isn't nearly as crazy as the last one but still a nice addition to the series.
I liked that we got more in the way of Miss Pym and her budding relationship with Sir George.
September 1, 2023
The 4th installment of the stage-coach travelling adventures of Miss Hannah Pym, once housekeeper now lady of means. In this one Miss Pym goes to Brighton and meets the beautiful Beatrice on the run from a forced marriage.
These books are a massive guilty pleasure - they are the bridge between Comedy of manners and the Austen style regency romances - the main lovers are probably the least interesting thing about this - what makes them so hugely entertaining are the supporting cast: Hannah and her outrageous footman Benjamin - Benjamin outdoes himself in this one. There's the underlying series arc of Hannah's own possible romance with Sir George, I really hope after all her matchmaking she ends up happily herself! But certainly not in this one as Gerorge is planning to propose to an absolute horror with a lisp!
I loved the depiction of the bathing machine in this one and we get to meet Prinny. There's villains, romance and adventure told at a lightening pace with quirky, fun characters. This series never fails to amuse and cheer me up.
These books are a massive guilty pleasure - they are the bridge between Comedy of manners and the Austen style regency romances - the main lovers are probably the least interesting thing about this - what makes them so hugely entertaining are the supporting cast: Hannah and her outrageous footman Benjamin - Benjamin outdoes himself in this one. There's the underlying series arc of Hannah's own possible romance with Sir George, I really hope after all her matchmaking she ends up happily herself! But certainly not in this one as Gerorge is planning to propose to an absolute horror with a lisp!
I loved the depiction of the bathing machine in this one and we get to meet Prinny. There's villains, romance and adventure told at a lightening pace with quirky, fun characters. This series never fails to amuse and cheer me up.
June 7, 2018
In this book, Miss Hannah Pym is on another adventure. This time, with her footman, Benjamin. On the way to Brighton, they meet the beautiful, but cold Lady Beatrice Marsham.
Lady Beatrice is a widow who thought she could live quietly now that her abusive husband is gone. Her parents decided that she needed a husband and fixed her up with another horrible man.
Lord Alistair Munro, a guest at the coaching inn, becomes fast friends with Hannah. She decides in her matchmaking mind that Lady Beatrice and Lord Alistair would be well suited. There are a lot of obstacles and adventures in this story. I fell in love with Benjamin the footman.
Lady Beatrice is a widow who thought she could live quietly now that her abusive husband is gone. Her parents decided that she needed a husband and fixed her up with another horrible man.
Lord Alistair Munro, a guest at the coaching inn, becomes fast friends with Hannah. She decides in her matchmaking mind that Lady Beatrice and Lord Alistair would be well suited. There are a lot of obstacles and adventures in this story. I fell in love with Benjamin the footman.
June 17, 2021
This was an interesting book, not just for the romance, but for the development of Miss Pym's character. I love Benjamin for his loyalty and because he takes care of Miss Pym far beyond what she realizes.
Up until this book, Miss Pym has been a bit bossy but almost too perfect. Here, she has fears that the gentleman she is interested in will be far too interested in a beautiful widow. I totally understand those fears. I also enjoyed the author's portrayal of Prinny.
While this book can be read out of order, I always like to read them in order. I'd recommend this book for anyone who likes traditional Regencies.
Up until this book, Miss Pym has been a bit bossy but almost too perfect. Here, she has fears that the gentleman she is interested in will be far too interested in a beautiful widow. I totally understand those fears. I also enjoyed the author's portrayal of Prinny.
While this book can be read out of order, I always like to read them in order. I'd recommend this book for anyone who likes traditional Regencies.
April 4, 2024
Very good book. I went to Amazon and bought four of this series. I can not afford to pay such high prices as they are now charging (I know--been told over & over--the publisher sets the price BUT Amazon, I'm sure has influence to keep prices down!)
THE main character is good and has a small story behind her and a "love" interest. I was not happy with her offering the girl in trouble (parents and violent fiancée) that she could live with the main character, and then they both decided maybe they would not be happy together! I thought such a major decision should be made with lots of thought first!
the book was a good escape from today's stresses.
THE main character is good and has a small story behind her and a "love" interest. I was not happy with her offering the girl in trouble (parents and violent fiancée) that she could live with the main character, and then they both decided maybe they would not be happy together! I thought such a major decision should be made with lots of thought first!
the book was a good escape from today's stresses.
September 18, 2023
One in a funny little series written by M C Beaton (known to me as the author of The Agatha Raisin series). I had never heard of this series but 2 of them turned up in my Little Library. They were nicely bound, colourful, hard back, large print copies. I thought I’d give one a try. Not really my style….Ye Olde Worldie swooning quirky type romance with an interfering, match-making spinster as the main character. Others love this series. It was a light, OK read, but I won’t continue with the series.
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