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The Governess Chronicles #1
A Governess Should Never... Tempt a Prizefighter
“So tell me, Miss Griffin, why should I employ you as governess?”
A question to rouse fear within the breast of any prospective governess but for Matilda, a lady without references, appropriate brown clothing or any experience with children whatsoever, doubly so.
Yet, alone in the world, except for a brutish guardian and a malodorous betrothed, Matilda must seek her own future, even if that means employment in the household of a rugged ex-prizefighter with sizeable muscles and doubtless miniscule intellect.
“Please continue to enlighten me, Miss Griffin.”
Mr Seth Hawkins, owner of famed Boxing Academy, has reached the point of desperation in his search for a governess.
Yet, with no other suitable candidates, could this yellow-clad, bespectacled female who seemed to think him a witless dolt with calloused knuckles and no books, teach his daughter the ways of a lady?
The Lady and the Prizefighter.
One should never judge a man by his well-defined muscles or a lady by her yellow-silk slippers, for beneath both façades, lay yearning hearts, shared dreams and a taste for adventure.
With tavern excursions, scandalous kisses in midnight carriages, whifflers, nobblers and dressing as a nefarious footpad on the prowl, the vocation of governess has never been so exciting…
A fun, heart-warming Regency romance, this is the first book in a companion series to the Games of Gentlemen.
This tale contains sensual scenes.
A question to rouse fear within the breast of any prospective governess but for Matilda, a lady without references, appropriate brown clothing or any experience with children whatsoever, doubly so.
Yet, alone in the world, except for a brutish guardian and a malodorous betrothed, Matilda must seek her own future, even if that means employment in the household of a rugged ex-prizefighter with sizeable muscles and doubtless miniscule intellect.
“Please continue to enlighten me, Miss Griffin.”
Mr Seth Hawkins, owner of famed Boxing Academy, has reached the point of desperation in his search for a governess.
Yet, with no other suitable candidates, could this yellow-clad, bespectacled female who seemed to think him a witless dolt with calloused knuckles and no books, teach his daughter the ways of a lady?
The Lady and the Prizefighter.
One should never judge a man by his well-defined muscles or a lady by her yellow-silk slippers, for beneath both façades, lay yearning hearts, shared dreams and a taste for adventure.
With tavern excursions, scandalous kisses in midnight carriages, whifflers, nobblers and dressing as a nefarious footpad on the prowl, the vocation of governess has never been so exciting…
A fun, heart-warming Regency romance, this is the first book in a companion series to the Games of Gentlemen.
This tale contains sensual scenes.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 9, 2020
About the author
Emily Windsor
27 books543 followersEmily grew up in the north of England on a diet of historical romance and strong tea.
Unfortunately, you couldn’t study Regency slang, so she did the next best thing and gained a degree in Classics and History instead. This ‘led’ to an eight-year stint in engineering.
Having left city life, she now lives in a dilapidated farmhouse where her days are spent writing, fixing the leaky roof, battling the endless vegetation and finding pictures of well-tied cravats.
For details of new releases or to get in touch, find Emily on:
https://facebook.com/AuthorEmilyWindsor
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/emily...
https://uk.pinterest.com/EmilyWindsor...
Follow her Amazon Author Page, http://amazon.com/author/emilywindsor
https://www.instagram.com/emilywindso...
Or become a 'Lady of Windsor' and sign up for Emily's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gehNKr
Unfortunately, you couldn’t study Regency slang, so she did the next best thing and gained a degree in Classics and History instead. This ‘led’ to an eight-year stint in engineering.
Having left city life, she now lives in a dilapidated farmhouse where her days are spent writing, fixing the leaky roof, battling the endless vegetation and finding pictures of well-tied cravats.
For details of new releases or to get in touch, find Emily on:
https://facebook.com/AuthorEmilyWindsor
https://www.bookbub.com/authors/emily...
https://uk.pinterest.com/EmilyWindsor...
Follow her Amazon Author Page, http://amazon.com/author/emilywindsor
https://www.instagram.com/emilywindso...
Or become a 'Lady of Windsor' and sign up for Emily's newsletter: http://eepurl.com/gehNKr
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews
June 7, 2021
“‘Doubt thou the stars are fire, Doubt that the sun doth move, Doubt truth to be a liar, But never doubt I love.’” His arm encircled her waist. “Never doubt I love you, Matilda. With all that I am – humble prizefighter and a man at your feet.”
A Governess Should Never… Tempt a Prizefighter was a relatively low angst, sweet romance with likeable characters. There’s no doubt that this new-to-me author did a lot of research for this book, and it shows which is why I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
The heroine, Matilda Griffin (20), was intelligent and brave. I liked her honesty and her authenticity. It was refreshing when she told the hero what she wanted from the outset which created no room for miscommunication. The hero, Seth Hawkins (31), was a charming character and a great single father to his thirteen-year-old daughter, Chloe. I wasn’t expecting Seth to be so warm and attentive given the nature of his job as a Pugilist, but he was the perfect gentleman. The romance between Matilda and Seth was very wholesome and the lower-class setting made the story quite unique in itself.
That being said, I think I was expecting more in the second half especially in the end regarding Matilda's guardian – who she had run away from. I really wanted Seth to beat him up and I wasn't satisfied with the way he was dealt with at the end. I was also expecting more bonding moments between Matilda and Chloe. However, the main problem I had with the story was Matilda's vocabulary. She was very well spoken but she was constantly throwing around really big words and it threw me off because I was constantly looking up every second word... buuuuut that's on me and my pea brain.
Overall, the characters and the plot were both enjoyable, but I don't think the story was as memorable as it could have been. This review was a little difficult to write because I don't remember much and the fact that I read this book about 2-3 weeks ago and the only standout scene I remember is the hero getting kicked by a horse is quite telling...
Rating: 3/5
( BR with my bestie Lozza who I share one brain cell with. 👁👅👁 )
November 22, 2023
Self-made men in historical romance are my fave.
This was a surprisingly good book and a very well written story, it was full of action, pugilistic information and scenes and an amazingly strong, sweet hero. You guys, I loved this hero. He was a caretaker, a soft man who fought for the benefit of his family, not because he liked violence. A self-made man, with a posh accent that slipped when his feelings got heated.
That being said, this doesn’t get full stars from me because I wasn’t fully connected with the love story and didn’t feel their chemistry as much as I wanted to. I think this lacked yearning and heat for me and chalk it up to the following:
The wordy nature of the text: this book was tough to digest because of it’s overuse of fancy language. Some of the verbosity and the London cant should have been left out of the narrative and reserved mainly for the dialogue. I get that his London vernacular and her wordiness were part of their characterization, and I enjoyed it, but it made the text too weighty and ponderous to read at times which held me back from really connecting with the story.
I liked it in the dialogue and inner thoughts, but thought it laid on with a bit of a heavy hand, in the third person narrative style.
The heroine: while I liked her and routed for her, she also felt a little bit too young and naive to really fit with this older, well-establish, gritty hero. She did grow throughout the book and I liked that, but her naïveté and innocence often made her childlike. I wondered sometimes if the author was attempting to make her neurodivergent but ultimately decided she wasn’t because there wasn’t quite enough there to justify it. I might have liked it better if she was rather than just a bookish, sheltered miss (I’m kind of over those in HR).
But the story itself, the setting, the side characters (who I’m upset don’t have their own stories in this series) and the originality were all very well done. I will definitely read more from this author and really do recommend this with the caveat that you should not go in if you don’t love being bombarded by historically accurate London cant and large dictionary words.
This was a surprisingly good book and a very well written story, it was full of action, pugilistic information and scenes and an amazingly strong, sweet hero. You guys, I loved this hero. He was a caretaker, a soft man who fought for the benefit of his family, not because he liked violence. A self-made man, with a posh accent that slipped when his feelings got heated.
That being said, this doesn’t get full stars from me because I wasn’t fully connected with the love story and didn’t feel their chemistry as much as I wanted to. I think this lacked yearning and heat for me and chalk it up to the following:
The wordy nature of the text: this book was tough to digest because of it’s overuse of fancy language. Some of the verbosity and the London cant should have been left out of the narrative and reserved mainly for the dialogue. I get that his London vernacular and her wordiness were part of their characterization, and I enjoyed it, but it made the text too weighty and ponderous to read at times which held me back from really connecting with the story.
I liked it in the dialogue and inner thoughts, but thought it laid on with a bit of a heavy hand, in the third person narrative style.
The heroine: while I liked her and routed for her, she also felt a little bit too young and naive to really fit with this older, well-establish, gritty hero. She did grow throughout the book and I liked that, but her naïveté and innocence often made her childlike. I wondered sometimes if the author was attempting to make her neurodivergent but ultimately decided she wasn’t because there wasn’t quite enough there to justify it. I might have liked it better if she was rather than just a bookish, sheltered miss (I’m kind of over those in HR).
But the story itself, the setting, the side characters (who I’m upset don’t have their own stories in this series) and the originality were all very well done. I will definitely read more from this author and really do recommend this with the caveat that you should not go in if you don’t love being bombarded by historically accurate London cant and large dictionary words.
March 12, 2021
This book is a beyond adorable. And so are the mcs.
It's not a rom-com per se but the author has a very humorous writing style that leaves one smiling or chuckling at places.
'The lady governess and the low-bred pugilist' are quite the odd couple. She needs to stay hidden in a safe place for about three months till she turns 21, and out of her evil cousin's clutches who wishes to marry her off (sell her off) to an old lecherous lord. She applies to be governess to the 13 yo daughter of a former prizefighter turned owner of an exclusive Boxing club, and gets the job.
This h is a true bluestocking or what I'll term a bookworm (unlike the because-we-are-told-so versions in other books). No, her nose isn't always buried in a book but her knowledge on all and sundry is unlimited. (She simply knew stuff.) She's dreamed of sailing to the Molucca islands and seeing the birds of paradise but all that seems improbable now.
She finds the H very attractive or his plumage agreeable and rationalizes her attraction to the mating habits of the pelicans. She cannot help commenting on (and feeling up) his pectoralis major or musculus abdominis or his callipygian figure. It's cute and hilarious.
The H is a very sweet and gentle person - a gentleman in the truest sense. I love his relationship with his teenage daughter and how he tries not to stifle the young girl's dreams and wishes.
The h, always a lonely, correct child finds the love, warmth and the uncomplicated ways of this household appealing and heartwarming.
It's not a rom-com per se but the author has a very humorous writing style that leaves one smiling or chuckling at places.
'The lady governess and the low-bred pugilist' are quite the odd couple. She needs to stay hidden in a safe place for about three months till she turns 21, and out of her evil cousin's clutches who wishes to marry her off (sell her off) to an old lecherous lord. She applies to be governess to the 13 yo daughter of a former prizefighter turned owner of an exclusive Boxing club, and gets the job.
This h is a true bluestocking or what I'll term a bookworm (unlike the because-we-are-told-so versions in other books). No, her nose isn't always buried in a book but her knowledge on all and sundry is unlimited. (She simply knew stuff.) She's dreamed of sailing to the Molucca islands and seeing the birds of paradise but all that seems improbable now.
She finds the H very attractive or his plumage agreeable and rationalizes her attraction to the mating habits of the pelicans. She cannot help commenting on (and feeling up) his pectoralis major or musculus abdominis or his callipygian figure. It's cute and hilarious.
The H is a very sweet and gentle person - a gentleman in the truest sense. I love his relationship with his teenage daughter and how he tries not to stifle the young girl's dreams and wishes.
The h, always a lonely, correct child finds the love, warmth and the uncomplicated ways of this household appealing and heartwarming.
August 16, 2026
“I would have tangled my fingers in your silken hair and ravished your lips with mine till breath ceased for want of one another.” There, that might silence her delectable mouth for once. “I resign,” she said huskily. “I beg your pardon?” “I resign from your employ. I wish you to ravish my lips, Mr Hawkins, therefore if my status as governess is the lone reason for your refusal, then I shall resign. A kiss won’t take long, will it? And you can reinstate me a few moments after.” The saucy wench.
“I accept your resignation, Miss Griffin,” he murmured nonetheless, slanting to her, the scent of flowers in his nostrils, head and heart. “And you must call me Seth.”
This was such a beautiful, tender love story. - highly recommend!
(This book will hold a special place in my memory because for five days without power, after a destructive derecho and EF1 tornado seriously damaged my community, getting lost in this story helped me keep my sanity).
The smooth brown paper rustled and she creased it back to reveal… Three bars of her beloved Pears amber soap were stacked upon one another, her favourite scent of flowers assailing her. A card slipped out.
May you never be without your English garden. S. H.
The gift was forward and wicked, outrageously scandalous for a gentleman, and possibly the kindest thing anyone had ever done for her.
Lips kissed her ear and she shivered. “‘Doubt thou the stars are fire, Doubt that the sun doth move, Doubt truth to be a liar, But never doubt I love.’” His arm encircled her waist. “Never doubt I love you, Matilda. With all that I am – humble prizefighter and a man at your feet.”
“I accept your resignation, Miss Griffin,” he murmured nonetheless, slanting to her, the scent of flowers in his nostrils, head and heart. “And you must call me Seth.”
This was such a beautiful, tender love story. - highly recommend!
(This book will hold a special place in my memory because for five days without power, after a destructive derecho and EF1 tornado seriously damaged my community, getting lost in this story helped me keep my sanity).
The smooth brown paper rustled and she creased it back to reveal… Three bars of her beloved Pears amber soap were stacked upon one another, her favourite scent of flowers assailing her. A card slipped out.
May you never be without your English garden. S. H.
The gift was forward and wicked, outrageously scandalous for a gentleman, and possibly the kindest thing anyone had ever done for her.
Lips kissed her ear and she shivered. “‘Doubt thou the stars are fire, Doubt that the sun doth move, Doubt truth to be a liar, But never doubt I love.’” His arm encircled her waist. “Never doubt I love you, Matilda. With all that I am – humble prizefighter and a man at your feet.”
November 14, 2020
(4.5+ stars) This is the story of a callipygian pugilist and a sesquipedalian governess. I liked it a lot. So much so that I considered giving it 5 stars. It has a very swoon-worthy hero and romance, with no Big Misunderstanding or Failure to Communicate, great dialogue, fun characters, and lots of humor and entertaining moments. And it's educational. You'll learn lots of new words. Some that are no longer in use, like the slang and boxing cant from 1800s England; some that may still be around but nobody uses. Like "callipygian," which is something lovely to see in (on?) a guy but we usually use a more direct choice of words to describe this. (No, I won't tell you what it means. Look it up.)
And each chapter begins with a quote from PRIVATE EDUCATION: A Practical Plan for the Studies of Young Ladies, written in 1815 by Elizabeth Appleton. An actual manual of the time that our heroine here, a newbie governess, tries to use as her how-to guide for dealing with 13-year-old Chloe, the widowed hero's daughter.
This story is the first in a new series by Windsor. Each one apparently will have a heroine working as a governess. Now, I know governess/employer historical romances are a dime a dozen, but this was one of the good ones. Most bore my socks off, but never were my socks in any danger during this read.
Heroine Matilda Griffin lost her parents a few years prior in an accident and now an evil cousin is her guardian. (Yes, yes, that's another overused trope. Get over it.) He needs money and wants to marry her off to a creepy lord but she's having none of it. Hence her applying for the position as governess to the daughter of our hero, Seth Hawkins, who grew up in the slums but has escaped poverty and made a successful life for himself through boxing. At first as a boxer and now, after years of scrimping and saving, he has opened up a very exclusive boxing academy for the upper classes.
But his daughter is growing up fast and, without a mother, is in need of the guidance and influence of a genteel woman. Matilda, although with no experience, seems to be the best of the applicants and he hires her. And there you go. It's one of those romances across the social divide, as she is from the upper class and is somewhat prim and straitlaced and full of big words and rather stilted syntax. At first she thinks he's all brawn and little brain but that quickly changes. He is, without a doubt, a very fairy-tale version of a lower-class boxer. He quotes Shakespeare and the classics, can speak with close to a posh accent when he wishes, dresses well, and has excellent manners. So, yeah, fairy tale, but it's a really lovely romance.
The secondary characters are great, especially Seth's young daughter and his cook/housekeeper Betty. And all of Seth's friends. They are delightful, down to earth, well mannered and loyal.
I like the way Windsor writes, although I do wish she checked her punctuation a bit more and also some of her vocabulary choices. There's a lot of emphasis on both erudite and slang word usage in the book, but, while telling the story, Windsor makes a few mistakes. There were a few words I questioned and that punctuation was careless at times.
But there's some lovely writing here. And some insightful looks at life. Matilda likens herself to a "fragile tea service," but wishes to be a "hard-wearing pewter tankard." Betty mentions that "Nobody is dim-witted. They just haven't learned stuff yet." Chloe tells her father that Mattie has described his eyes as "a mysterious mixture of spring's nature and autumn's earth," and when Seth asks "Is that good?" she rolls her eyes and replies, "If we notice, we notice. If we don't, they are mere brown." Mattie, who had been forced by her guardian to wear only shades of yellow, finds herself eventually loving the color, realizing that "some things were not truly disliked, merely tainted by circumstances until viewed in a different light."
I need to take that very last observation to heart about a few things in my life.
And each chapter begins with a quote from PRIVATE EDUCATION: A Practical Plan for the Studies of Young Ladies, written in 1815 by Elizabeth Appleton. An actual manual of the time that our heroine here, a newbie governess, tries to use as her how-to guide for dealing with 13-year-old Chloe, the widowed hero's daughter.
This story is the first in a new series by Windsor. Each one apparently will have a heroine working as a governess. Now, I know governess/employer historical romances are a dime a dozen, but this was one of the good ones. Most bore my socks off, but never were my socks in any danger during this read.
Heroine Matilda Griffin lost her parents a few years prior in an accident and now an evil cousin is her guardian. (Yes, yes, that's another overused trope. Get over it.) He needs money and wants to marry her off to a creepy lord but she's having none of it. Hence her applying for the position as governess to the daughter of our hero, Seth Hawkins, who grew up in the slums but has escaped poverty and made a successful life for himself through boxing. At first as a boxer and now, after years of scrimping and saving, he has opened up a very exclusive boxing academy for the upper classes.
But his daughter is growing up fast and, without a mother, is in need of the guidance and influence of a genteel woman. Matilda, although with no experience, seems to be the best of the applicants and he hires her. And there you go. It's one of those romances across the social divide, as she is from the upper class and is somewhat prim and straitlaced and full of big words and rather stilted syntax. At first she thinks he's all brawn and little brain but that quickly changes. He is, without a doubt, a very fairy-tale version of a lower-class boxer. He quotes Shakespeare and the classics, can speak with close to a posh accent when he wishes, dresses well, and has excellent manners. So, yeah, fairy tale, but it's a really lovely romance.
The secondary characters are great, especially Seth's young daughter and his cook/housekeeper Betty. And all of Seth's friends. They are delightful, down to earth, well mannered and loyal.
I like the way Windsor writes, although I do wish she checked her punctuation a bit more and also some of her vocabulary choices. There's a lot of emphasis on both erudite and slang word usage in the book, but, while telling the story, Windsor makes a few mistakes. There were a few words I questioned and that punctuation was careless at times.
But there's some lovely writing here. And some insightful looks at life. Matilda likens herself to a "fragile tea service," but wishes to be a "hard-wearing pewter tankard." Betty mentions that "Nobody is dim-witted. They just haven't learned stuff yet." Chloe tells her father that Mattie has described his eyes as "a mysterious mixture of spring's nature and autumn's earth," and when Seth asks "Is that good?" she rolls her eyes and replies, "If we notice, we notice. If we don't, they are mere brown." Mattie, who had been forced by her guardian to wear only shades of yellow, finds herself eventually loving the color, realizing that "some things were not truly disliked, merely tainted by circumstances until viewed in a different light."
I need to take that very last observation to heart about a few things in my life.
January 31, 2021
3.5/5. Not my favourite trope, this one. Employee-employer relationships can be tricky to negotiate in romances and are just one little step away from being uncomfortable with the potential power-imbalance that can ensue. Fortunately, this book did not stray into such territory thanks to the hero remaining respectful and honourable throughout. Seth Hawkins, ex-prize-fighter and owner of a prestigious boxing academy, has risen from rough beginnings through literally blood, sweat and tears. Through it all, he never deviated from his innate sense of decency and it shows in the way he raises his young daughter to be a strong and independent young lady.
Like all young ladies born to wealth and privilege, Matilda Griffin has been sheltered all her life. Now orphaned and desperate to escape the greedy clutches of her guardian, she applies for the position of governess working in the household of the intimidating Mr. Hawkins. She's completely out of her depth but luckily, her employer is a protective sort of man and not one to take advantage of a woman all alone.
Great historical details. Wonderful supporting characters. Seth makes a swoon-worthy hero. Matilda unfortunately did get on my nerve a bit with her repetitive need to rant off the proper latin names for the impressive muscles on that the hero displays from time to time. One of my pet hates is when supposedly bluestocking heroines (or nerdy heroes) feel the need to constantly and compulsively share their knowledge with those around them. Is that really necessary? Their various side-trips around town to allow Matilda to experience things that she had hitherto missed out on were not quite appropriate either, not a place to take a young girl. I wouldn't mind more romantic tension and more humour. I got a bit bored in the second half.
Like all young ladies born to wealth and privilege, Matilda Griffin has been sheltered all her life. Now orphaned and desperate to escape the greedy clutches of her guardian, she applies for the position of governess working in the household of the intimidating Mr. Hawkins. She's completely out of her depth but luckily, her employer is a protective sort of man and not one to take advantage of a woman all alone.
Great historical details. Wonderful supporting characters. Seth makes a swoon-worthy hero. Matilda unfortunately did get on my nerve a bit with her repetitive need to rant off the proper latin names for the impressive muscles on that the hero displays from time to time. One of my pet hates is when supposedly bluestocking heroines (or nerdy heroes) feel the need to constantly and compulsively share their knowledge with those around them. Is that really necessary? Their various side-trips around town to allow Matilda to experience things that she had hitherto missed out on were not quite appropriate either, not a place to take a young girl. I wouldn't mind more romantic tension and more humour. I got a bit bored in the second half.
August 2, 2026
This book was such a pleasant surprise!
Matilda Griffin is a young lady fleeing from a difficult situation with a guardian who wants to marry her off.
Determined to actually live her life she bravely sets out to forge her own future, she applies to be a governess even though she doesn't know the first thing about being one!
Happily she meets Seth Hawkins who owns a boxing academy and is in need of a governess for his daughter.
Matilda is welcomed into this home and this world and has never experienced such warmth and affection before.
Seth and Matilda get know each other with the not so subtle nudging of his 13 year old daughter and their housekeeper.
I love how considerate he is of her and genuinely tries to take care of her but also not stifling her.
I love how she's actually just a little awkward nerd who hasn't had much affection in life but is so open and ready for it.
I am utterly charmed and I just loved their relationship didn't feel at all rushed or only about sexual tension but actual genuine affection.
Matilda Griffin is a young lady fleeing from a difficult situation with a guardian who wants to marry her off.
Determined to actually live her life she bravely sets out to forge her own future, she applies to be a governess even though she doesn't know the first thing about being one!
Happily she meets Seth Hawkins who owns a boxing academy and is in need of a governess for his daughter.
Matilda is welcomed into this home and this world and has never experienced such warmth and affection before.
Seth and Matilda get know each other with the not so subtle nudging of his 13 year old daughter and their housekeeper.
I love how considerate he is of her and genuinely tries to take care of her but also not stifling her.
I love how she's actually just a little awkward nerd who hasn't had much affection in life but is so open and ready for it.
I am utterly charmed and I just loved their relationship didn't feel at all rushed or only about sexual tension but actual genuine affection.
November 8, 2020
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Matilda Griffin is the daughter of the late Viscount Astwood, a title now held by her cousin and guardian. With mere months before she comes of age, her cousin has decided she will marry and has betrothed her to the vile Earl of Sidlow – a man old enough to be her grandfather and repulsive to boot! To avoid this fate, she applies for the position of governess to Seth Hawkins’ thirteen-year-old daughter Chloe. She knows her cousin has frittered away her father’s fortune and her dowry, so she figures she can hide out until she turns twenty-one and then use her inheritance and travel the world. It is the perfect plan, but that was before she met Seth.
Seth Hawkins is a widower, father and former prizefighter, who has opened a boxing academy that is vastly popular and wildly successful. He has raised his daughter alone for years, but knows she needs a woman’s guidance and is fast losing hope of finding the perfect governess when he meets Matilda, at first, he thinks she is all wrong, but is taken with her honestly and hires her. She is lovely and he is surprised to realize he is attracted to her – after years of guarding his heart and keeping women at arm’s length, Matilda manages to worm her way past his defenses.
As they spend time together, they grow close and Seth begins to imagine a future, but her cousin isn’t willingly to let her go without a fight and if they want any type of future, Seth will have to protect her – but Astwood doesn’t fight fair and Matilda may have to save them both!
I really enjoyed this book, it is well written, fast paced and fun. Matilda and Seth are amazing characters who are incredibly likable and easy to root for. They don’t fight their love or make excuses why they can’t be together and when faced with trouble, they work together – they are just wonderful and the book was a delight to read. The secondary characters were great, the love scenes warm, there is some action, some surprises and a sweet ending complete with an epilogue. If I had any complaint it would be that the book has a lot of boxing cant and British slang, which I will be honest, was a bit hard to understand, but not impossible and didn’t really affect my enjoyment of the story. This is the first book in the series and I really can’t wait for the next installment! I enjoyed this book and would be happy to recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Matilda Griffin is the daughter of the late Viscount Astwood, a title now held by her cousin and guardian. With mere months before she comes of age, her cousin has decided she will marry and has betrothed her to the vile Earl of Sidlow – a man old enough to be her grandfather and repulsive to boot! To avoid this fate, she applies for the position of governess to Seth Hawkins’ thirteen-year-old daughter Chloe. She knows her cousin has frittered away her father’s fortune and her dowry, so she figures she can hide out until she turns twenty-one and then use her inheritance and travel the world. It is the perfect plan, but that was before she met Seth.
Seth Hawkins is a widower, father and former prizefighter, who has opened a boxing academy that is vastly popular and wildly successful. He has raised his daughter alone for years, but knows she needs a woman’s guidance and is fast losing hope of finding the perfect governess when he meets Matilda, at first, he thinks she is all wrong, but is taken with her honestly and hires her. She is lovely and he is surprised to realize he is attracted to her – after years of guarding his heart and keeping women at arm’s length, Matilda manages to worm her way past his defenses.
As they spend time together, they grow close and Seth begins to imagine a future, but her cousin isn’t willingly to let her go without a fight and if they want any type of future, Seth will have to protect her – but Astwood doesn’t fight fair and Matilda may have to save them both!
I really enjoyed this book, it is well written, fast paced and fun. Matilda and Seth are amazing characters who are incredibly likable and easy to root for. They don’t fight their love or make excuses why they can’t be together and when faced with trouble, they work together – they are just wonderful and the book was a delight to read. The secondary characters were great, the love scenes warm, there is some action, some surprises and a sweet ending complete with an epilogue. If I had any complaint it would be that the book has a lot of boxing cant and British slang, which I will be honest, was a bit hard to understand, but not impossible and didn’t really affect my enjoyment of the story. This is the first book in the series and I really can’t wait for the next installment! I enjoyed this book and would be happy to recommend it.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
June 28, 2026
“If I were not your governess, if I was simply an independent widow, or a barmaid at liberty, would you have acquiesced to my request?”
“But you are not–”
“Pretend, Mr Hawkins,” she said stridently. “What would you have done?”
Seth swallowed. He could lie, say he had no desire for sherry eyes behind golden-framed spectacles, that he preferred the barmaid in The Red Lion, that a pocket Venus was not to his taste. Yet a bitterness coated his tongue and heart at the thought. He was an honest man. “I would have tangled my fingers in your silken hair and ravished your lips with mine till breath ceased for want of one another.” There, that might silence her delectable mouth for once.
“I resign,” she said huskily.
“I beg your pardon?” “I resign from your employ. "I wish you to ravish my lips, Mr Hawkins, therefore if my status as governess is the lone reason for your refusal, then I shall resign. A kiss won’t take long, will it? And you can reinstate me a few moments after.”
The saucy wench.
This was such a delectable read with genuine feelings, traumatised pasts, hope, lovely side characters and loads of values. Everything in a book that makes me happy.
“But you are not–”
“Pretend, Mr Hawkins,” she said stridently. “What would you have done?”
Seth swallowed. He could lie, say he had no desire for sherry eyes behind golden-framed spectacles, that he preferred the barmaid in The Red Lion, that a pocket Venus was not to his taste. Yet a bitterness coated his tongue and heart at the thought. He was an honest man. “I would have tangled my fingers in your silken hair and ravished your lips with mine till breath ceased for want of one another.” There, that might silence her delectable mouth for once.
“I resign,” she said huskily.
“I beg your pardon?” “I resign from your employ. "I wish you to ravish my lips, Mr Hawkins, therefore if my status as governess is the lone reason for your refusal, then I shall resign. A kiss won’t take long, will it? And you can reinstate me a few moments after.”
The saucy wench.
This was such a delectable read with genuine feelings, traumatised pasts, hope, lovely side characters and loads of values. Everything in a book that makes me happy.
July 22, 2021
This Regency required suspension of belief based on the
different upbringings of the MCs.
Widowed Seth grew up in the Rookeries, a coal heaver like
his dad. Seth swept floors too to read books from the lending
library. He became a prizefighter X 10 years & champion and
then owned an exclusive Boxing Academy, having dukes and
other members. He was a gent by inclination. Seth spoke
'proper' English, but lapsed back into cant when excited or
stressed.
Matilda "a pocket Venus" had a serious childhood, mostly
devoid of joy. She felt uncomfortable during most ton
events. When her parents died, male Cousin Astwood
became her guardian. He chose an old, leering man for her
future spouse.
Matilda ran away from this cousin to become a governess for
the h's teen dtr. Seth was protective & thoughtful toward
his sweetheart.
My fav scene? The h defended herself against cousin. The
cous deserved incarceration. I could have done w/o repeated
references to her "sherry" eyes & his pectoral muscles &
tight buns.
different upbringings of the MCs.
Widowed Seth grew up in the Rookeries, a coal heaver like
his dad. Seth swept floors too to read books from the lending
library. He became a prizefighter X 10 years & champion and
then owned an exclusive Boxing Academy, having dukes and
other members. He was a gent by inclination. Seth spoke
'proper' English, but lapsed back into cant when excited or
stressed.
Matilda "a pocket Venus" had a serious childhood, mostly
devoid of joy. She felt uncomfortable during most ton
events. When her parents died, male Cousin Astwood
became her guardian. He chose an old, leering man for her
future spouse.
Matilda ran away from this cousin to become a governess for
the h's teen dtr. Seth was protective & thoughtful toward
his sweetheart.
My fav scene? The h defended herself against cousin. The
cous deserved incarceration. I could have done w/o repeated
references to her "sherry" eyes & his pectoral muscles &
tight buns.
December 8, 2020
Matilda Griffin is in need of procuring a governess position. She doesn't have any experience as a governess but she's well-educated and knows the ins and outs of society. She needs to hide away from her brutish guardian, who wants to marry her off like cattle to the highest bidder. She interviews to be a governess for Seth Hawkins, an ex-prizefighter and owner of the Boxing Academy. She pleads her case with dignity and Seth reluctantly hires her. Armed with her manners and a few bits of clothing, she leaves all that she has known to help educate Seth's daughter into a proper young lady. Both Seth and Matilda have preconceived notions of each other yet soon discover they are very wrong. Seth is a well-educated man himself while Matilda is a passionate woman with a taste of adventure. She never knew life could be this exciting. Is it Seth himself who makes her heart race or is it the taste of freedom? Can these two realize they share the same dreams and a passionate love before her guardian discovers her whereabouts?
A Governess Should Never...Tempt A Prizefighter is a Regency enemies-to-lovers romance I adored from start to finish. The main characters are so vibrant, they leap from the page. My heart went out to both Matilda and Seth. They're scarred from their pasts but together, they rediscover what's important in life. Emily Windsor is a talented writer and she swept me away from the very first page. Her detailed narration is not only historically accurate but allows the reader to immerse themselves in the world she creates. Intricate details such as clothing, food, boxing equipment, and scenery added to my enjoyment of the story. The romance is slow-burning with plenty of conflicts yet I loved seeing the characters squirm. Emotional, humorous, heartfelt, A Governess Should Never...Tempt a Prizefighter is a must-read for all romance readers. This is my first Emily Windsor book, and it won't be the last. I'm addicted to her writing and can't wait to read the next installment in this brand-new series. Fans of Bree Wolf need to read this book. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I read this in Kindle Unlimited CA.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
A Governess Should Never...Tempt A Prizefighter is a Regency enemies-to-lovers romance I adored from start to finish. The main characters are so vibrant, they leap from the page. My heart went out to both Matilda and Seth. They're scarred from their pasts but together, they rediscover what's important in life. Emily Windsor is a talented writer and she swept me away from the very first page. Her detailed narration is not only historically accurate but allows the reader to immerse themselves in the world she creates. Intricate details such as clothing, food, boxing equipment, and scenery added to my enjoyment of the story. The romance is slow-burning with plenty of conflicts yet I loved seeing the characters squirm. Emotional, humorous, heartfelt, A Governess Should Never...Tempt a Prizefighter is a must-read for all romance readers. This is my first Emily Windsor book, and it won't be the last. I'm addicted to her writing and can't wait to read the next installment in this brand-new series. Fans of Bree Wolf need to read this book. Highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I read this in Kindle Unlimited CA.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Mrs. N
July 9, 2024
I can't wait to compare my "read" shelf to DNF at the end of the year.
I made it to 50% but wasn't feeling the tension I wanted from this very sweet, very pleasant book. My DNF should not influence you negatively - this is a maybe it is us type situation where the combination of the work dynamic, Matilda's wide eyed fascination, the teen's matchmaking are all kinda snuffing this out for me, but it is good, is the thing.
I made it to 50% but wasn't feeling the tension I wanted from this very sweet, very pleasant book. My DNF should not influence you negatively - this is a maybe it is us type situation where the combination of the work dynamic, Matilda's wide eyed fascination, the teen's matchmaking are all kinda snuffing this out for me, but it is good, is the thing.
October 14, 2021
A slight but sweet and very charming story that I thoroughly enjoyed. It’s fun and light-hearted, an angst-free telling of a growing awareness between a sheltered but threatened lady who gets her governess training on the fly from a highly suspect manual, and an almost-too-worthy ex-prizefighter who has made a success of himself.
August 22, 2026
3.5 stars 🌟
Nice story, with nice characters.
Matilda was being forced into a marriage to an old man, by her guardian cousin.
She escaped by getting a job as governess to a prizefighter’s daughter.
This is when her life changes for the better.
I enjoyed the humour, Too much description of room and garden was a bit boring, which is why I never gave a 4 ⭐️
Nice story, with nice characters.
Matilda was being forced into a marriage to an old man, by her guardian cousin.
She escaped by getting a job as governess to a prizefighter’s daughter.
This is when her life changes for the better.
I enjoyed the humour, Too much description of room and garden was a bit boring, which is why I never gave a 4 ⭐️
March 7, 2023
I shall resign! Ahah! This part was really good! I liked the humor present throughout the book. I liked the hero for being delicate, a gentleman but rugged at the same time, and I really liked his relationship with his daughter, Chloe. I liked the MCs' relationship; it could be spicier, but ok, this is not that kind of romance.
I got a bit lost in some passages between events, but I don't rule out the problem being mine as English is not my first language and there are plenty of metaphors. I definitely thought there was little drama...So she gets attacked and doesn't even care about it? Isn't there an introspection, fear? I don't know...
The ending was pretty tacky, but cute!
I got a bit lost in some passages between events, but I don't rule out the problem being mine as English is not my first language and there are plenty of metaphors. I definitely thought there was little drama...So she gets attacked and doesn't even care about it? Isn't there an introspection, fear? I don't know...
The ending was pretty tacky, but cute!
January 19, 2021
I love this author. Why? Because of her humor, her attention to language, and her respect for her characters. Her use of vocabulary is heads-and-shoulders above most Kindle Unlimited authors in this genre (it helps that she's British and has an academic background involving history). But she's not stuffy; she's so good at playing with words and creating drolly humorous scenes that gently tweak historical romance tropes. I also get a kick out of her allusions to actual literature, music, and art of the time period.
Another plus: Windsor doesn't lead with sex. I certainly don't mind steamy scenes, but some authors mistake endless erotica for characterization and plot. Windsor's heroes and heroines don't simply lust after each other and have mindless sex, leading to convenient misunderstandings that finally lead to marriage. They develop affection and respect for each other, mirroring real relationships. Her heroines' actions don't just devolve into silliness due to machinations of the plot, and the heroes aren't ridiculously alpha just because it's supposed to be a turn-on. As such, the melodramatic meltdowns that can be part and parcel of this genre are usually kept to a minimum by this author.
My criticisms are minor: I caught a few punctuation errors (nothing that's a big deal) and I felt like the plot deflated a bit by the last few chapters. Everything was wrapped up a bit too easily with the nasty cousin. Maybe the story could have used a bit more angst??
But honestly, when I read a book by Emily Windsor, I know I'm in for some chuckles and a broad smile by the end, and that's really what I'm looking for in most of my entertainment these days.
Don't overlook this book or author!
Another plus: Windsor doesn't lead with sex. I certainly don't mind steamy scenes, but some authors mistake endless erotica for characterization and plot. Windsor's heroes and heroines don't simply lust after each other and have mindless sex, leading to convenient misunderstandings that finally lead to marriage. They develop affection and respect for each other, mirroring real relationships. Her heroines' actions don't just devolve into silliness due to machinations of the plot, and the heroes aren't ridiculously alpha just because it's supposed to be a turn-on. As such, the melodramatic meltdowns that can be part and parcel of this genre are usually kept to a minimum by this author.
My criticisms are minor: I caught a few punctuation errors (nothing that's a big deal) and I felt like the plot deflated a bit by the last few chapters. Everything was wrapped up a bit too easily with the nasty cousin. Maybe the story could have used a bit more angst??
But honestly, when I read a book by Emily Windsor, I know I'm in for some chuckles and a broad smile by the end, and that's really what I'm looking for in most of my entertainment these days.
Don't overlook this book or author!
February 20, 2021
I enjoyed this story set in London but not in the mainstream Ton world. I had some eyerolling moments with the bad guy and the reasons for the ‘governess’ hiding out but it was still a good story.
June 14, 2021
“But had I known such a love as ours existed, I would have searched forever to find you..”
A Governess Should Never… Tempt a Prizefighter by Emily Windsor as the title indicates, brings two very unusual protagonists together; a retired pugilist and his governess, whose backgrounds are as different as night and day. When 31 year old Seth Hawkins seeks a governess for his 13 year old daughter, the last thing he expects is for a lady like Matilda Griffin to apply for the position and turn his entire life upside down.
Matilda is on the run from her guardian, until such time that she regains control of her own life. She seeks refuge in the unlikeliest of places and finds it, by convincing her employer that she is more than qualified in the tutoring that Seth requires for his daughter.
As the days pass, a friendship is forged to life between Seth and Matilda, which kindles the slow burn of desire between them. Seth may be a retired professional boxer, who used his brawn and body to make his way and get out of the poverty ridden life he would otherwise have had to endure throughout his life, but he is a man who is keenly intelligent, with a heart that yearns for love as much as Matilda’s does. Matilda may have grown up in a more affluent household in comparison, but loneliness had been her one constant companion, which she had kept at bay through the books that enriched her life.
Finding common ground between herself and Seth is surprising for Matilda, but it doesn’t stop her from seeking more, to understand the complexity of the man who holds her heart. Their deeply meaningful conversations are one of the reasons this book stands out, especially the frankness with which Seth claims her after all is said and done. He is a gentleman to his very core and the man who answers the need that flares to life in Matilda as a woman of her own right.
I enjoyed my first Emily Windsor, even though I was a bit hesitant at first to pick this up because of a number of reviews which weren’t all that positive. But then, I don’t usually rely on other reviews all that much and choose to make up my own mind about what works and what doesn’t for me, and it has served me right for the most part as it did with this one. Like most romance readers, unusual main leads intrigue me in stories, and I am delighted that I did give this a chance.
I loved the slow awakening of desire and the emotions of the more tender variety that burgeoned to life along with it. I loved how both Seth and Matilda were protective of each other, how they saw the best in one another, and how they both yearned to spend the rest of their lives with none other than the other.
Recommended for those who love beautifully spun historical romances featuring the not your usual variety of hero and heroine. You won’t be disappointed!
Final Verdict: There is just something beautiful about historical romances done right, a magic that lingers in the air when you are immersed in the story. That is what I found in A Governess Should Never… Tempt a Prizefighter.
Rating = 4.25/5
For more reviews and quotes, please visit A Maldivian's Passion for Romance
December 6, 2020
2.75 stars.
While this wasn't amazing, I found myself very surprised by the hero. He wasn't a man about town at all. The author almost made it sound like he'd only ever been intimate with his first wife and then the heroine. "Being a prizefighting champion had brought many women to his door, but he never opened it- too bruised, too particular or just too damn tired." (Kindle location 1684) That alone made my day. He was just a lovely man, genuine and caring, a good father and an honest businessman.
The heroine, on the other hand, was a little hard to like. She was a little annoying, with her naivete, bookish approach to everything, and utter lack of real world experience and. I just never warmed up to her.
Overall, this story was ok. The hero was awesome and the communication between the MCs was refreshing, but the telling left a bit to be desired. I appreciated the safety (no real OP drama) and a non manho H. I liked how this featured a non-noble H as well, with a tough past and real life struggles. However, the villain was underdeveloped, as was most of the other supporting characters. In the end, this was a nice way to pass the time.
While this wasn't amazing, I found myself very surprised by the hero. He wasn't a man about town at all. The author almost made it sound like he'd only ever been intimate with his first wife and then the heroine. "Being a prizefighting champion had brought many women to his door, but he never opened it- too bruised, too particular or just too damn tired." (Kindle location 1684) That alone made my day. He was just a lovely man, genuine and caring, a good father and an honest businessman.
The heroine, on the other hand, was a little hard to like. She was a little annoying, with her naivete, bookish approach to everything, and utter lack of real world experience and. I just never warmed up to her.
Overall, this story was ok. The hero was awesome and the communication between the MCs was refreshing, but the telling left a bit to be desired. I appreciated the safety (no real OP drama) and a non manho H. I liked how this featured a non-noble H as well, with a tough past and real life struggles. However, the villain was underdeveloped, as was most of the other supporting characters. In the end, this was a nice way to pass the time.
April 21, 2021
3.5 really, but I finished it and was happy enough. I thought the author (like her MC) was a bit verbose and she lost me several times with her wordy descriptions. It didn't bother me that the MC was written that way (it was the point). However, when the author does it, I tend to zone out. You can describe something without it coming across like a sermon.
Also, the whole "I'm an unfortunate looking wallflower" when the h is actually attractive gets old. It's a trope authors really need to move away from.
I did find myself chuckling at the heroine referring to herself, not as a wallflower, but "More like a cauliflower....rather bland- only the head is of interest and liable to stunted growth." haha! that cracked me up.
I also highlighted a few different things in this book that were pretty profound IMO. Talented author that gave a lot to this book, including research.
"Sadness is inevitable in life, but there is no reason to walk into its embrace, if it can be so helped."
"Nobody is dim-witted, they just haven't learned stuff yet."
Also, the whole "I'm an unfortunate looking wallflower" when the h is actually attractive gets old. It's a trope authors really need to move away from.
I did find myself chuckling at the heroine referring to herself, not as a wallflower, but "More like a cauliflower....rather bland- only the head is of interest and liable to stunted growth." haha! that cracked me up.
I also highlighted a few different things in this book that were pretty profound IMO. Talented author that gave a lot to this book, including research.
"Sadness is inevitable in life, but there is no reason to walk into its embrace, if it can be so helped."
"Nobody is dim-witted, they just haven't learned stuff yet."
November 19, 2020
Tags: kid fic, class difference
Employer/employee power dynamics squick me out, so I usually give governess books a pass. Those sort of books generally have P&P-esque enemies-to-lovers/misunderstandings tropes too which I HATE so I’m glad I gave this one a chance.
Its been so long since I’ve read a book that made me sigh with happiness at the end. I truly enjoyed reading this, though readers looking for more bite to their story might be disappointed.
The prizefighting hero thumbs his nose to the Brooding hero; the crux of the story is how the heroine’s (and our) assumptions about him are based on stereotype. I follow MMA but even I had to put aside my assumptions about “Muscled Men” 😂. The syntax takes some getting used to, but I thought the author was very clever in how she handled writing the language of the hero vs the heroine.
Its a feel-good, low angst story, filled with fun characters and a couple who actually like and respect each other—weird how that’s a rarity!
Employer/employee power dynamics squick me out, so I usually give governess books a pass. Those sort of books generally have P&P-esque enemies-to-lovers/misunderstandings tropes too which I HATE so I’m glad I gave this one a chance.
Its been so long since I’ve read a book that made me sigh with happiness at the end. I truly enjoyed reading this, though readers looking for more bite to their story might be disappointed.
The prizefighting hero thumbs his nose to the Brooding hero; the crux of the story is how the heroine’s (and our) assumptions about him are based on stereotype. I follow MMA but even I had to put aside my assumptions about “Muscled Men” 😂. The syntax takes some getting used to, but I thought the author was very clever in how she handled writing the language of the hero vs the heroine.
Its a feel-good, low angst story, filled with fun characters and a couple who actually like and respect each other—weird how that’s a rarity!
November 8, 2022
His prize
She was only meant to be his governess until her birthday and she only needed a place to hide til her birthday but she realizes he isn't your typical prizefighter he is a sweet intelligent father to his daughter and employer who is very attractive and that she can't help but see him as more than a employer.
With the help of her charge and a sweet housekeeper she and he both start finding themselves no longer able to resist each other.
Love is inevitable even if they are from two different worlds.
She was only meant to be his governess until her birthday and she only needed a place to hide til her birthday but she realizes he isn't your typical prizefighter he is a sweet intelligent father to his daughter and employer who is very attractive and that she can't help but see him as more than a employer.
With the help of her charge and a sweet housekeeper she and he both start finding themselves no longer able to resist each other.
Love is inevitable even if they are from two different worlds.
January 1, 2021
I have seldom enjoyed a HR tale more than this one by Emily Windsor. It is a tender, witty, clever and swoony romance and I’m happy to allot it five stars, because it outranks every HR I’ve read in the past 12 months. In fact, it’s so good that I’ve now “Followed” Windsor and subscribed to her newsletter, in order to avoid missing her upcoming publications.
OLT’s review already provides a broad picture of Windsor’s tale, including why it uses an oft-used trope, but delivered in a way that is sufficiently fresh and unusual.
Of particularly appeal to me is the underlying thread of poetics from the hero, Seth, as well as the encyclopaedic knowledge and overly complicated linguistics of the heroine, Matilda. (Both approaches to language reveal much about the respective characters - in his case, his reading has accompanied his drive to drag himself, and his family from the stews; in hers, it has happened because she was parented by loving, but remote parents, who isolated her from the world and drove her to find approval and solace in literature.)
Another thread that kept me beguiled is Seth’s “family” - not just his captivating daughter, but the wonderful, wonderful housekeeper (whose slant on life makes me wish she lived with me) and his loyal childhood mate, who watches his back, even at risk to his own life.
There is no doubt that Windsor has created a fabulous heroine in Matilda, inside and out - I won’t describe the full reasons why this is so. Instead, I recommend reading the story to enjoy her deliberations, her enthusiasms, her entertaining musings - on the sex lives of penguins, or Plato’s views on love, and so, so much more. And to watch her fall into lust and then love with the splendiferous Seth.
And what a HR hero he is. I’m heartily sick of HR rakes and Seth is the absolute opposite of them. Despite being a giant of a man, with bruised knuckles and a nose busted to the side, he has learned how to impose self control and how to win outside the ring, without ever resorting to violence. He is honourable, gentle, kind. He loves and is fiercely protective of his family - his daughter, his parents and his extended family. He was deserted by his wife and, instead of descending into the usual HR response of contempt for women and self pity, he has become a loving sole parent - meanwhile, clawing his way from poverty by becoming a champion prizefighter. I could go on and on about him, but won’t say any more than this - he is also just the sort of lover (I think) that most HR fans would find to be irresistible (and by that I do not mean his love-making technique, which may be wonderful, but, rather, his capacity to admire, support and let soar the woman he has grown to love).
Thanks for creating and then sharing Seth, Emily Windsor. He may be a touch too perfect to be real - but what the heck. We all know that HR is the land of make-believe.
OLT’s review already provides a broad picture of Windsor’s tale, including why it uses an oft-used trope, but delivered in a way that is sufficiently fresh and unusual.
Of particularly appeal to me is the underlying thread of poetics from the hero, Seth, as well as the encyclopaedic knowledge and overly complicated linguistics of the heroine, Matilda. (Both approaches to language reveal much about the respective characters - in his case, his reading has accompanied his drive to drag himself, and his family from the stews; in hers, it has happened because she was parented by loving, but remote parents, who isolated her from the world and drove her to find approval and solace in literature.)
Another thread that kept me beguiled is Seth’s “family” - not just his captivating daughter, but the wonderful, wonderful housekeeper (whose slant on life makes me wish she lived with me) and his loyal childhood mate, who watches his back, even at risk to his own life.
There is no doubt that Windsor has created a fabulous heroine in Matilda, inside and out - I won’t describe the full reasons why this is so. Instead, I recommend reading the story to enjoy her deliberations, her enthusiasms, her entertaining musings - on the sex lives of penguins, or Plato’s views on love, and so, so much more. And to watch her fall into lust and then love with the splendiferous Seth.
And what a HR hero he is. I’m heartily sick of HR rakes and Seth is the absolute opposite of them. Despite being a giant of a man, with bruised knuckles and a nose busted to the side, he has learned how to impose self control and how to win outside the ring, without ever resorting to violence. He is honourable, gentle, kind. He loves and is fiercely protective of his family - his daughter, his parents and his extended family. He was deserted by his wife and, instead of descending into the usual HR response of contempt for women and self pity, he has become a loving sole parent - meanwhile, clawing his way from poverty by becoming a champion prizefighter. I could go on and on about him, but won’t say any more than this - he is also just the sort of lover (I think) that most HR fans would find to be irresistible (and by that I do not mean his love-making technique, which may be wonderful, but, rather, his capacity to admire, support and let soar the woman he has grown to love).
Thanks for creating and then sharing Seth, Emily Windsor. He may be a touch too perfect to be real - but what the heck. We all know that HR is the land of make-believe.
September 27, 2021
SO Much Fun! Loved this! The writing was so good! I gave this very little chance but was so glad I was proved wrong! The writing! So beautiful:} All the poetry:} This couple was so fun to watch fall in love. The ending was a bit too sweet for me but that was my only issue. I will be reading more by this author. She knows her regency history and she knows how to entertain.
There is a sex scene in this one. It is lovely and well done. I would call it almost pg13.
There is a sex scene in this one. It is lovely and well done. I would call it almost pg13.
November 1, 2020
A Governess Should Never...Tempt a Prizefighter is the first book in the Governess Chronicles by Emily Windsor. What a great start to a series it is!
Seth Hawkins started off poor and in the Rookeries of London. Through sheer determination and his boxing prowess, he earned enough money to now own his own boxing academy and be comfortably well off. He has a young daughter who has come to an age where she needs a governess. She needs to be taught the ways of a lady. Unfortunately, being brought up by her father, she knows more about boxing and being a tomboy than she does of manners or etiquette and Seth's quest to find a governess has proven a disaster. If he managed to employ one they didn't last long. So when Matilda Griffin, a woman with no experience at all at being a governess, asks him for the position, he is desperate enough to give it to her. On a trial basis of course.
Matilda is very relieved to have got the position because she is in dire straits. Her uncle/guardian, who is often abusive to her, is determined to sell her off as a wife to a horrid man who makes her skin crawl. She won't be married to him and her only way of escape is to run away. Becoming a governess gives her employment and a place to stay and she happily moves into Seth's home despite having no idea how she will get on with his daughter.
What follows is the lovely story of how Matilda starts to fully enjoy her life in her new capacity as a governess. Her charge is a delightful young girl and her employer is so wonderful that it isn't long before Matilda falls for him. Seth feels a strong attraction to her too but for various reasons, he tries his best to not give in to it. Will he be able to stay strong, more importantly, will he be able to keep Matilda safe from her Uncle who is searching for her since she ran away?
Seth is a fabulous character, strong in both mind and body, and according to Matilda, it is a very fine body indeed. She is often awestruck by his physique especially when she watches him boxing! He is the ultimate protector of those he cares for and I loved how he looked after Matilda and how he, Matilda and his daughter were forming a lovely family.
Matilda's growth from a shy, insecure woman was a joy to read. Seth really helped her out of her shell and made her realise her worth. She blossomed under his care, knowing somebody actually thought she was worth looking after.
As the blurb of the book says..."With tavern excursions, scandalous kisses in midnight carriages, whifflers, nobblers and dressing as a nefarious footpad on the prowl, the vocation of governess has never been so exciting…" I loved all the London slang, whifflers, nobblers, etc, the scenes with all those words thrown around were always fabulous and brought a smile to my face. I love a book that makes me smile or laugh out loud as well as being able to make me sigh at the romance of it all. I really believe this book ticks all the right boxes!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and definitely want to read the rest in the series as they are written!
5 Stars
Seth Hawkins started off poor and in the Rookeries of London. Through sheer determination and his boxing prowess, he earned enough money to now own his own boxing academy and be comfortably well off. He has a young daughter who has come to an age where she needs a governess. She needs to be taught the ways of a lady. Unfortunately, being brought up by her father, she knows more about boxing and being a tomboy than she does of manners or etiquette and Seth's quest to find a governess has proven a disaster. If he managed to employ one they didn't last long. So when Matilda Griffin, a woman with no experience at all at being a governess, asks him for the position, he is desperate enough to give it to her. On a trial basis of course.
Matilda is very relieved to have got the position because she is in dire straits. Her uncle/guardian, who is often abusive to her, is determined to sell her off as a wife to a horrid man who makes her skin crawl. She won't be married to him and her only way of escape is to run away. Becoming a governess gives her employment and a place to stay and she happily moves into Seth's home despite having no idea how she will get on with his daughter.
What follows is the lovely story of how Matilda starts to fully enjoy her life in her new capacity as a governess. Her charge is a delightful young girl and her employer is so wonderful that it isn't long before Matilda falls for him. Seth feels a strong attraction to her too but for various reasons, he tries his best to not give in to it. Will he be able to stay strong, more importantly, will he be able to keep Matilda safe from her Uncle who is searching for her since she ran away?
Seth is a fabulous character, strong in both mind and body, and according to Matilda, it is a very fine body indeed. She is often awestruck by his physique especially when she watches him boxing! He is the ultimate protector of those he cares for and I loved how he looked after Matilda and how he, Matilda and his daughter were forming a lovely family.
Matilda's growth from a shy, insecure woman was a joy to read. Seth really helped her out of her shell and made her realise her worth. She blossomed under his care, knowing somebody actually thought she was worth looking after.
As the blurb of the book says..."With tavern excursions, scandalous kisses in midnight carriages, whifflers, nobblers and dressing as a nefarious footpad on the prowl, the vocation of governess has never been so exciting…" I loved all the London slang, whifflers, nobblers, etc, the scenes with all those words thrown around were always fabulous and brought a smile to my face. I love a book that makes me smile or laugh out loud as well as being able to make me sigh at the romance of it all. I really believe this book ticks all the right boxes!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story and definitely want to read the rest in the series as they are written!
5 Stars
June 14, 2022
A Governess Should Never… Tempt a Prizefighter is a lovely historical romance by Emily Windsor. It has likable protagonists, interesting secondary characters, wonderful dialogue, and a great love story! Matilda Griffin is a twenty-year-old who became her cousin’s responsibility when her parents died. When she learns that her cousin has carelessly spent all of his money and plans to marry Matilda off to a much older and repulsive man, Matilda decides to make her own way. With only months before her twenty-first birthday, Matilda applies for a job as a governess and intends to hide away until she can claim her inheritance. Seth Hawkins is a former prizefighter who has opened up his own exclusive boxing academy. With a thirteen-year-old daughter in need of a governess, Seth hires Matilda.
Matilda is a sweet and educated woman who is very well-read and often applies her knowledge to life. My favorite is when she compares men to the mating habits of pelicans. Some of her observations are laugh-out-loud funny, some show her naivete, and others show her astuteness. I found her character likable and admirable. She wants to make her own way in life, and she uses her skill to achieve her goals. Seth is fabulous as well. Honorable, kind, and loving, Seth works hard to provide his daughter with the life he feels she deserves. He is a man of contradictions. A prizefighter and giant of a man, Seth is tough but also kind and caring.
I like that the story examines the futility of first impressions. Matilda, in particular, greatly mischaracterizes Seth when she first meets him, and I think she learns a lot about preconceived notions and judging books by their covers. Seth and Matilda are both avid readers, though for very different reasons. Seth used reading and the knowledge he gains from it to further himself in society and business. Matilda led a solitary upbringing with remote parents, and reading was her constant companion. I love that they connect over this and share their thoughts and feelings about literature and learning. These scenes and the easy and witty banter that flows between them show how deeply their feelings become. They have so much chemistry between them, and their romance is lovely.
The secondary characters are also quite interesting, especially Seth’s daughter Chloe and Seth’s housekeeper. I love how willingly they welcome Matilda into their home. Seth’s housekeeper is so wise and wonderful, and her motherly advice and comfort help guide the rest of the household. Seth also has some fantastic friends, and I’m eager to learn more about them! There are hints of unrequited love with one of his friends, and I’m dying to find out his story!
A heart-warming Regency romance with likable characters, great dialogue, and a wonderful love story, this book is a great start to Windsor’s new series. It’s funny and sweet and definitely one I’d recommend to historical romance fans. Thanks to Emily Windsor for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Matilda is a sweet and educated woman who is very well-read and often applies her knowledge to life. My favorite is when she compares men to the mating habits of pelicans. Some of her observations are laugh-out-loud funny, some show her naivete, and others show her astuteness. I found her character likable and admirable. She wants to make her own way in life, and she uses her skill to achieve her goals. Seth is fabulous as well. Honorable, kind, and loving, Seth works hard to provide his daughter with the life he feels she deserves. He is a man of contradictions. A prizefighter and giant of a man, Seth is tough but also kind and caring.
I like that the story examines the futility of first impressions. Matilda, in particular, greatly mischaracterizes Seth when she first meets him, and I think she learns a lot about preconceived notions and judging books by their covers. Seth and Matilda are both avid readers, though for very different reasons. Seth used reading and the knowledge he gains from it to further himself in society and business. Matilda led a solitary upbringing with remote parents, and reading was her constant companion. I love that they connect over this and share their thoughts and feelings about literature and learning. These scenes and the easy and witty banter that flows between them show how deeply their feelings become. They have so much chemistry between them, and their romance is lovely.
The secondary characters are also quite interesting, especially Seth’s daughter Chloe and Seth’s housekeeper. I love how willingly they welcome Matilda into their home. Seth’s housekeeper is so wise and wonderful, and her motherly advice and comfort help guide the rest of the household. Seth also has some fantastic friends, and I’m eager to learn more about them! There are hints of unrequited love with one of his friends, and I’m dying to find out his story!
A heart-warming Regency romance with likable characters, great dialogue, and a wonderful love story, this book is a great start to Windsor’s new series. It’s funny and sweet and definitely one I’d recommend to historical romance fans. Thanks to Emily Windsor for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
March 8, 2021
An enchanting tale of transformation, love, and acceptance, the reader will find this charming story satisfying and enjoyable.
Read full review in the 2021 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 March issue of InD'tale Magazine.
November 13, 2020
HELP FROM A PRIZEFIGHTER ****
4 1/2 STARS
A charming young lady strikes out on her own to hide from her vile cousin and his machinations. She begins her adventure as a governess to the daughter of the owner of the Boxing Academy. Matilda concludes she has the ability to be a governess with the help of a certain book. Seth Hawkins worked his way up from the streets of London as a Prizefighter. The club is proof of his success. Several friends and his daughter push Seth and Matilda together. As the courtship unfolds, neither can forget the danger she's in. A sweet romance of a tough guy soft on the inside and a shy young lady that ventures beyond the dictates of society. Be it known....the glossary of regency pugilism is in the back of the book. Not knowing this I was still able to figure out some of the terms on my own. I enjoy reading books that incorporate the hero and heroine being from different ends of society.
4 1/2 STARS
A charming young lady strikes out on her own to hide from her vile cousin and his machinations. She begins her adventure as a governess to the daughter of the owner of the Boxing Academy. Matilda concludes she has the ability to be a governess with the help of a certain book. Seth Hawkins worked his way up from the streets of London as a Prizefighter. The club is proof of his success. Several friends and his daughter push Seth and Matilda together. As the courtship unfolds, neither can forget the danger she's in. A sweet romance of a tough guy soft on the inside and a shy young lady that ventures beyond the dictates of society. Be it known....the glossary of regency pugilism is in the back of the book. Not knowing this I was still able to figure out some of the terms on my own. I enjoy reading books that incorporate the hero and heroine being from different ends of society.
May 22, 2021
3.5 ☆☆☆☆
March 7, 2023
Really, a cosy Regency Romance with a charming if slightly muddled at times heroine, a surprisingly gentle pugilist hero, a dastardly guardian, an unexpected daughter and various kindly secondary characters.
Enjoyable.
Enjoyable.
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