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Sisters of Woodside Mysteries #1
The Governess
When Mr. Edmund Winterton of Woodside dies, his daughters find themselves penniless and homeless. What can they do? Unless they wish to live on charity, they will have to find genteel employment for themselves.
Annabelle becomes governess to the daughters of the recently bereaved Earl of Brackenwood. She has no idea how to teach, but her pupils can learn all they need from books, so how difficult can it be? She’ll need all her ingenuity to cope with the rebelliousness of her charges and the unwanted attentions of their father. But when her past returns to haunt her, she has to make a difficult decision.
Allan is slowly getting used to life as a widower, but his mother is determined that he must marry again and produce an heir. He is determined that he won’t, although the new governess is just the sort of woman he could fall in love with. But when a face from long ago reappears and stirs up suspicion, he has to consider the possibility that his wife’s death was not natural. What is worse, he himself is the obvious suspect. If he can’t prove his innocence, he may lose everything - his home, his new love, and even his life.
A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
Book 1 of the 5-book Sisters of Woodside Mysteries series, each a complete story with a HEA, but listen to all of them to find out all the family secrets!
Annabelle becomes governess to the daughters of the recently bereaved Earl of Brackenwood. She has no idea how to teach, but her pupils can learn all they need from books, so how difficult can it be? She’ll need all her ingenuity to cope with the rebelliousness of her charges and the unwanted attentions of their father. But when her past returns to haunt her, she has to make a difficult decision.
Allan is slowly getting used to life as a widower, but his mother is determined that he must marry again and produce an heir. He is determined that he won’t, although the new governess is just the sort of woman he could fall in love with. But when a face from long ago reappears and stirs up suspicion, he has to consider the possibility that his wife’s death was not natural. What is worse, he himself is the obvious suspect. If he can’t prove his innocence, he may lose everything - his home, his new love, and even his life.
A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
Book 1 of the 5-book Sisters of Woodside Mysteries series, each a complete story with a HEA, but listen to all of them to find out all the family secrets!
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First published July 17, 2018
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About the author
Mary Kingswood
69 books480 followersI live in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland with my husband. I like chocolate, whisky, my Kindle, massed pipe bands, long leisurely lunches, chocolate, going places in my campervan, eating pizza in Italy, summer nights that never get dark, wood fires in winter, chocolate, the view from the study window looking out over the Moray Firth and the Black Isle to the mountains beyond. And chocolate. I dislike driving on motorways, cooking, shopping, hospitals.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
July 31, 2018
I was surprised at this story. I've read quite a bit of historical fiction and find many of them to be trite. However, this story really touched me. What really stood out for me was that the H was not this big, formidable man. He was described as average in height, a stocky build, and pleasant face (though not actually handsome). He is not sharply dressed (he is described occasionally as trying to dress better but failing somewhat as he leans more towards comfort than fashion). He is a bit shy and is unable to use "flowery speech" to woo a woman. And the thing is, he is aware of all this and it adds to his discomfort in knowing that he's not someone who stands out in a crowd. He sees other men at greater ease in society or around women and a part of him envies that. So when he grows to love Annabelle (and thank you it's not insta-love but actually spans over at least 6 months time), he worries that she won't accept someone "dull and boring" even though he's an earl. In short, you are rooting for him and it IS touch and go there for awhile as Annabelle is unable to let go of her first and only love Charles. It was lovely to see them grow together and you know that their relationship will be solid because it's not based all on passion but mutual respect and admiration.
Definitely worth a read.
Definitely worth a read.
January 28, 2020
Book Review by Pauline Reid 🔥 The Governess by Mary Kingswood
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Genre - Regency - Hisorical Romance
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This book is set in England during the Regency period of the early nineteenth century.
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Book 1 of the 5-book Sisters of Woodside Mysteries series, each a complete story with a HEA.
.
What Is This Book About?
The Will is the first chapter and sets the scene on how the Woodside sisters need to seperate to lead all different lives. Annabelle takes up a job as a Governess. Governess in a town called, Charlsby. Governess to 3 girls in the Brakenwood residency. Lord Brakenwood, owner of the house, wife deceased, but his mother lives in the house. His mother is quite a bit of a dragon, who partakes in matchmaking and inviting prospective wives to the house. She is a also a bit of a schemer and we are left loathing her in her underhanded ways. Love is blooming else in the house, Lord Brakenwood feels divided. So can Lord Brakenwood break through his consciousness and soothe his soul? Eloise, Lord Brakenwoods deceased wife has left a mystery letter. Containing what? And why was it left so long after her death? Was it an accident or was there foul play? An offical investigation begins.
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My Thoughts On This Book.
This was a free book from Bookbub. I loved how this book pans out. The main female character is actually Annabelle, The Governess to 3 girls of Lord Brackenwood. Annabelle is a feisty character. So feisty, that I learnt a new word in this book, as Mr Keeling said she was a "termagant”, but she did not reveal that side of her, until three quarters of the way through the book, giving the story the edge it needs for me, the reader, to eagerly carry on. The mystery and plotting in this book was cleverly done, it kept me guessing. The passion and love in this book was also set for this era and I was comfortable with it.
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Quotes
"Better service is provided to those of higher rank, so Miss Nobody of Nowhere-in-Particular is left to wait, like that poor widow in the milliner’s shop, who was quite neglected while three ladies attended to me."
.
“Yes, one must approve of a house with a staircase. And a oriel window, apparently. What is an oriel window?”
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Rating System
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
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Recommendation
This book comes highly recommended by me and will suit anyone who is interested in the Regency period, who loves the old English mannerisms, countryside and old manors, for example, drawing rooms, the Italian room, morning rooms. Anyone who loves the older style of falling in love and the politeness and etiquette that goes with it, for anyone who likes happy endings and for anyone who loves a mystery and If you like Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer books then this is in tune to these two authors.
.
Genre - Regency - Hisorical Romance
.
This book is set in England during the Regency period of the early nineteenth century.
.
Book 1 of the 5-book Sisters of Woodside Mysteries series, each a complete story with a HEA.
.
What Is This Book About?
The Will is the first chapter and sets the scene on how the Woodside sisters need to seperate to lead all different lives. Annabelle takes up a job as a Governess. Governess in a town called, Charlsby. Governess to 3 girls in the Brakenwood residency. Lord Brakenwood, owner of the house, wife deceased, but his mother lives in the house. His mother is quite a bit of a dragon, who partakes in matchmaking and inviting prospective wives to the house. She is a also a bit of a schemer and we are left loathing her in her underhanded ways. Love is blooming else in the house, Lord Brakenwood feels divided. So can Lord Brakenwood break through his consciousness and soothe his soul? Eloise, Lord Brakenwoods deceased wife has left a mystery letter. Containing what? And why was it left so long after her death? Was it an accident or was there foul play? An offical investigation begins.
.
My Thoughts On This Book.
This was a free book from Bookbub. I loved how this book pans out. The main female character is actually Annabelle, The Governess to 3 girls of Lord Brackenwood. Annabelle is a feisty character. So feisty, that I learnt a new word in this book, as Mr Keeling said she was a "termagant”, but she did not reveal that side of her, until three quarters of the way through the book, giving the story the edge it needs for me, the reader, to eagerly carry on. The mystery and plotting in this book was cleverly done, it kept me guessing. The passion and love in this book was also set for this era and I was comfortable with it.
.
Quotes
"Better service is provided to those of higher rank, so Miss Nobody of Nowhere-in-Particular is left to wait, like that poor widow in the milliner’s shop, who was quite neglected while three ladies attended to me."
.
“Yes, one must approve of a house with a staircase. And a oriel window, apparently. What is an oriel window?”
.
Rating System
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5 stars
.
Recommendation
This book comes highly recommended by me and will suit anyone who is interested in the Regency period, who loves the old English mannerisms, countryside and old manors, for example, drawing rooms, the Italian room, morning rooms. Anyone who loves the older style of falling in love and the politeness and etiquette that goes with it, for anyone who likes happy endings and for anyone who loves a mystery and If you like Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer books then this is in tune to these two authors.
June 29, 2022
4 STARS
This one was all very proper. An intriguing storyline though, and great writing. The mystery was pretty predictable, but no less enjoyable for it. A delightful little romance. I look forward to reading on in the series.
This one was all very proper. An intriguing storyline though, and great writing. The mystery was pretty predictable, but no less enjoyable for it. A delightful little romance. I look forward to reading on in the series.
November 3, 2018
Regency Romance with mystery and lively portrayal of family life in earl's country house. (Very little action in London.) I plan to continue reading this series as the hero/heroine have admirable traits and there is one missing relative I must know the fate of.
Kindle Unlimited
Kindle Unlimited
June 25, 2020
The author, Mary Kingswood, thanks Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer for inspiring her to try her hand at writing a regency romance. The Governess will certainly not take it's place as one the greats of this genre but it was enjoyable enough.
I liked that the hero was a normal, nice guy (well, a nice normal guy who happens to be an Earl) who won over the heroine by his character and kindness; instead of the smoldering, handsome lady-killing rake that she was powerless to resist, as we are used to in these tales.
On the other hand, the mystery was kind of lame and beside the point, so I'm not sure why it is emphasized in the title. I don't think I liked this enough to seek out others in the series, but I might be tempted by a daily deal or something.
I liked that the hero was a normal, nice guy (well, a nice normal guy who happens to be an Earl) who won over the heroine by his character and kindness; instead of the smoldering, handsome lady-killing rake that she was powerless to resist, as we are used to in these tales.
On the other hand, the mystery was kind of lame and beside the point, so I'm not sure why it is emphasized in the title. I don't think I liked this enough to seek out others in the series, but I might be tempted by a daily deal or something.
April 30, 2019
This was an entertaining read, but a bit slow moving for my taste. I will try the next in the series because I am intrigued with the characters.
December 27, 2018
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'The Governess', is the first installment of a new Regency romance series, 'The Sisters of Woodside Mystery's', by Mary Kingswood. I read the Kindle edition of this Romantical/Mystery series. The Winterton sister's lives were torn apart when their wastrel father died, after expending resources foolishly and self-indulgently, leaving them in poverty. In turn, they were forced to leave their childhood home and each had to turn to work for other families to support themselves.
"There is an old friend of Lord Carrbridge's, who might be in need of a governess. His wife died last year, leaving him with three daughters to raise. The poor man is distraught and hardly knows what he is about, so he has not yet thought what he should do for them. Lord C. has written to inquire of him if he would like a recommendation for a governess, but we have not yet heard from him. I will let you know if we hear from him. In the meantime, please tell me more about your sister, so that I may know how best to describe her accomplishments. Constance Carrbridge."
I personally felt engaged in the life of Annabelle Winteron, as a governess and the endearing Earl, Lord Brackenwood, whom she came to work for. There were many sweet and tender moments between not only them, but also with his precious daughters. She treated them all with respect, love, and kindness -- toward the children than did their own mother.
Ah, Annabelle, you are too young to wear the willow forever. Is it not time to live again, and open your heart to the possibility of love once more?
I appreciated that there wasn't an overbearing obstruction to the romance brewing. Sometimes those are just too over to the top to be credible. Each installment includes several twists, an investigation, and a well-developed cast. I enjoyed getting to know the sisters through their letters to Annabelle throughout the book. I look forward to their stories in the future! This is a "clean" romance and becomes appropriate for all ages, which may be boring for those who desire the explicitly of sexual scenes included. I, however, found it refreshing! Therefore, I bumped up my stars!! I don't feel a romance novel needs explicit sex. This book is definitely able to stand on its own. I appreciate it is a clean version and that there was a wonderfully appropriate H.E.A.
'The Governess', is the first installment of a new Regency romance series, 'The Sisters of Woodside Mystery's', by Mary Kingswood. I read the Kindle edition of this Romantical/Mystery series. The Winterton sister's lives were torn apart when their wastrel father died, after expending resources foolishly and self-indulgently, leaving them in poverty. In turn, they were forced to leave their childhood home and each had to turn to work for other families to support themselves.
"There is an old friend of Lord Carrbridge's, who might be in need of a governess. His wife died last year, leaving him with three daughters to raise. The poor man is distraught and hardly knows what he is about, so he has not yet thought what he should do for them. Lord C. has written to inquire of him if he would like a recommendation for a governess, but we have not yet heard from him. I will let you know if we hear from him. In the meantime, please tell me more about your sister, so that I may know how best to describe her accomplishments. Constance Carrbridge."
I personally felt engaged in the life of Annabelle Winteron, as a governess and the endearing Earl, Lord Brackenwood, whom she came to work for. There were many sweet and tender moments between not only them, but also with his precious daughters. She treated them all with respect, love, and kindness -- toward the children than did their own mother.
Ah, Annabelle, you are too young to wear the willow forever. Is it not time to live again, and open your heart to the possibility of love once more?
I appreciated that there wasn't an overbearing obstruction to the romance brewing. Sometimes those are just too over to the top to be credible. Each installment includes several twists, an investigation, and a well-developed cast. I enjoyed getting to know the sisters through their letters to Annabelle throughout the book. I look forward to their stories in the future! This is a "clean" romance and becomes appropriate for all ages, which may be boring for those who desire the explicitly of sexual scenes included. I, however, found it refreshing! Therefore, I bumped up my stars!! I don't feel a romance novel needs explicit sex. This book is definitely able to stand on its own. I appreciate it is a clean version and that there was a wonderfully appropriate H.E.A.
January 10, 2025
I love that this series has a nice balance between romance and mystery (Historical Romystery!). It leans a little more on the romance and that's just fine with me.
The crossovers from Mary Kingswood's other series are delightful! I didn't think we'd see Gus' friends again, but we had the lawyer and Captain Edgerton make appearances, as do Connie and Reggie. This is Mary Kingswood's world and I'm having a blast.
Anabelle is so charming - great with the children, retains a sense of humor with a drunk Allan (though I wouldn't have faulted her from being repelled in light of her father's issues with drinking), and isn't scared of the evil mother-in-law.
I only wish there were more scenes with the three girls - they were interesting!
The crossovers from Mary Kingswood's other series are delightful! I didn't think we'd see Gus' friends again, but we had the lawyer and Captain Edgerton make appearances, as do Connie and Reggie. This is Mary Kingswood's world and I'm having a blast.
Anabelle is so charming - great with the children, retains a sense of humor with a drunk Allan (though I wouldn't have faulted her from being repelled in light of her father's issues with drinking), and isn't scared of the evil mother-in-law.
I only wish there were more scenes with the three girls - they were interesting!
November 21, 2018
I am becoming a real fan of Mary Kingswood and her regencies. Look, it's not like we don't know how they are going to come out. It's obvious from the very beginning what's going to happen when it starts. But it's just a nice little ride to get to the obvious end. The thing I like best about Kingswood is that her heroes are not all the most handsome or the most dashing or the most articulate. The heroines are not all diamonds of the first water. And I like that. These books are perfect after reading something more draining or challenging or during a stressful time (like preparing for the holidays). It's just nice to sink into a story about love that ends with a passionate.....KISS.
So, are these Literature with a capital L? No. Are they Georgette Heyer. No, no one else IS GH. But these are entertaining when I need an entertaining read. And I hope Kingswood writes many more.
So, are these Literature with a capital L? No. Are they Georgette Heyer. No, no one else IS GH. But these are entertaining when I need an entertaining read. And I hope Kingswood writes many more.
December 8, 2019
This was nice and very clean (barely a kiss), protagonists likeable, romance slow developing. Conflicts were not due to lack of communication, which was very refreshing, and a bit of a mystery was supposed to spike things up.
It was, unfortunately, also a bit slow.
And I felt a bit uncomfortable with the governess-earl relationship. Not in general for jumping the classes, but with the fact that they lived in the same house, and still did even after they were betrothed.
I will probably read the next book in the series, but I am not in a hurry to do so.
It was, unfortunately, also a bit slow.
And I felt a bit uncomfortable with the governess-earl relationship. Not in general for jumping the classes, but with the fact that they lived in the same house, and still did even after they were betrothed.
I will probably read the next book in the series, but I am not in a hurry to do so.
September 19, 2018
The premise of this book is very familiar.... Gentleman gambles away the family fortune and has mortgaged his property to keep up appearances. When he dies, the family - 4 sisters are reliant on others. This story follows Annabelle who makes the decision to be a governess.
The story follows her to Charlsby and her friendship with her employer, Lord Brakenwood - widower. Annabelle heart belongs to someone already. Lord Brakenwood needs a new wife but his mother has very fixed ideas about the type of woman that should be and it is definitely not Annabelle. Add into the mix a potential murder plot and ensuing investigation!
I really enjoyed the start of this book. I liked Annabelle and Lord Brakenwood and his mother is so awful I liked her too! As time progressed though I felt this story lost its way a little and by the time I got to the end it felt as though some important elements had been missed out - particularly Annabelle's relationship with the little Lady Brakenwoods.
This is an enjoyable story but I found I didn't read the second half with as much enthusiasm as the first. I'll definitely be reading the others on the series.
The story follows her to Charlsby and her friendship with her employer, Lord Brakenwood - widower. Annabelle heart belongs to someone already. Lord Brakenwood needs a new wife but his mother has very fixed ideas about the type of woman that should be and it is definitely not Annabelle. Add into the mix a potential murder plot and ensuing investigation!
I really enjoyed the start of this book. I liked Annabelle and Lord Brakenwood and his mother is so awful I liked her too! As time progressed though I felt this story lost its way a little and by the time I got to the end it felt as though some important elements had been missed out - particularly Annabelle's relationship with the little Lady Brakenwoods.
This is an enjoyable story but I found I didn't read the second half with as much enthusiasm as the first. I'll definitely be reading the others on the series.
July 21, 2018
Another interesting family from Kingswood
I very much enjoyed the two previous, non-mysytery, series by Mary Kingswood. This new mystery series has enjoyable characters and settings, and the mystery is resolved well. However, the unfolding of the mystery, before the resolution and during the investigation, felt a little choppy. I am looking forward to the next story of the series, expecting that the skill of unfolding the mystery gets better.
I very much enjoyed the two previous, non-mysytery, series by Mary Kingswood. This new mystery series has enjoyable characters and settings, and the mystery is resolved well. However, the unfolding of the mystery, before the resolution and during the investigation, felt a little choppy. I am looking forward to the next story of the series, expecting that the skill of unfolding the mystery gets better.
February 17, 2019
Very good book, the historical detail was great. And who can say no to a historical mystery with a bit of romance thrown in.
As far as a mystery book goes, the mystery didn't necessarily take up a huge portion of this book. We read a good chunk of the book before the mystery is fully introduced, alothough it is hinted at for some time before hand. The search for answers has a very relaxed vibe to it, and in fact they even give up on it and call it case closed before it is solved. But it is solved shortly thereafter when the culprit finally shows their hand. It was a bit silly actually because the person actually serves to implicate themselves multiple times before they are caught, but no one has pieced it together yet. Needless to say I was able to determine who was responsible before it was revealed, but it was still enjoyable to read as everything played itself out.
With the romance, Annabelle took a long time to come round. She was very reticent and, I believe, willfully blind at times. But everything comes together in the end and I was happy with the outcome.
I do believe that I will continue on with the series, although I'm not sure if I will enjoy reading about the other sisters quite as much. I really liked Annabelle's character, but I'm sure I will enjoy the other sister's personalities more once I know more of them. And if anything I'm sure Annabelle is likely to make another appearance in the other books.
As far as a mystery book goes, the mystery didn't necessarily take up a huge portion of this book. We read a good chunk of the book before the mystery is fully introduced, alothough it is hinted at for some time before hand. The search for answers has a very relaxed vibe to it, and in fact they even give up on it and call it case closed before it is solved. But it is solved shortly thereafter when the culprit finally shows their hand. It was a bit silly actually because the person actually serves to implicate themselves multiple times before they are caught, but no one has pieced it together yet. Needless to say I was able to determine who was responsible before it was revealed, but it was still enjoyable to read as everything played itself out.
With the romance, Annabelle took a long time to come round. She was very reticent and, I believe, willfully blind at times. But everything comes together in the end and I was happy with the outcome.
I do believe that I will continue on with the series, although I'm not sure if I will enjoy reading about the other sisters quite as much. I really liked Annabelle's character, but I'm sure I will enjoy the other sister's personalities more once I know more of them. And if anything I'm sure Annabelle is likely to make another appearance in the other books.
March 13, 2019
The Governess by Mary Kingswood is a very well written historical romance with a cozy mystery element, just to keep the plot interesting. I will admit I guessed the identity of the villain, but still there were a few surprise plot twists. This clean and sweet novel was an engrossing peek into societal complexities of nineteenth century England. All of the characters were believable with individual voices and personalities. Annabelle and Allan were both very likable. Their chemistry hinted at hidden passion, but it was limited to appropriate kissing.
All in all this was an entertaining read that is suitable for any reader.
All in all this was an entertaining read that is suitable for any reader.
August 3, 2018
Three cheers for these sister. Dad gambles away the family fortune and after a good cry they put on their big girl pants and go out and get a job.
Three cheers for the author who has them find work in the type of careers that would have been available back in the day. Governess. Chaperone. Seamstress. Companion.
Nice hero. Nice heroine . Decent mystery. Overall a nice little read. Add a star if squeaky clean is your hot button.
Three cheers for the author who has them find work in the type of careers that would have been available back in the day. Governess. Chaperone. Seamstress. Companion.
Nice hero. Nice heroine . Decent mystery. Overall a nice little read. Add a star if squeaky clean is your hot button.
January 23, 2019
Sweet story, wonderful romantic leads.
April 20, 2025
This was quite a good example of the genre. Dragged a bit. But very sweet and the characters are rather charming and normal. (Not excessively beautiful, handsome, accomplished, etc.) Didn’t love the audio. Similar review for the second.
June 17, 2025
2.75🌟
It's ok. It's a decent story with boring characters.
Recommended : meh 😐
It's ok. It's a decent story with boring characters.
Recommended : meh 😐
September 4, 2018
Ms. Austen would be proud
The author’s notes indicate that she was influenced by
Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer. The influences are there in the period correct language, attention to character development and plot details. The mystery element drives much of the action and is well done but somewhat secondary to the charming development of the love story of Annabelle and Allan.
The author advertises her books as more about drawing room manners as opposed to bedroom gymnastics and she is true to her word. No mistake, there is romantic tension but it’s more about Annabelle and Allan’s growing awareness and affection than the insta-lust attraction of modern Regency romances. That said, their relationship development is slightly less reserved than that found in the works of Austen and Heyer because of Annabelle’s desire for Allan to give a firmer physical display of affection—a kiss—near the end of the novel. The reason for his reluctance to do so is sweet and believable.
My only criticism is that once the mystery is solved the ending seemed to drag on a bit longer than necessary. The crisp pacing and pleasing narrative gave way to what felt like a systematic tying up of a list of loose ends.
Bottom line: I enjoyed this far more than I expected to. I am usually disappointed by authors who try to emulate Jane Austen but I believe Ms. Kingswood does a creditable job of it. I look forward to reading the remainder of the books in the series.
The author’s notes indicate that she was influenced by
Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer. The influences are there in the period correct language, attention to character development and plot details. The mystery element drives much of the action and is well done but somewhat secondary to the charming development of the love story of Annabelle and Allan.
The author advertises her books as more about drawing room manners as opposed to bedroom gymnastics and she is true to her word. No mistake, there is romantic tension but it’s more about Annabelle and Allan’s growing awareness and affection than the insta-lust attraction of modern Regency romances. That said, their relationship development is slightly less reserved than that found in the works of Austen and Heyer because of Annabelle’s desire for Allan to give a firmer physical display of affection—a kiss—near the end of the novel. The reason for his reluctance to do so is sweet and believable.
My only criticism is that once the mystery is solved the ending seemed to drag on a bit longer than necessary. The crisp pacing and pleasing narrative gave way to what felt like a systematic tying up of a list of loose ends.
Bottom line: I enjoyed this far more than I expected to. I am usually disappointed by authors who try to emulate Jane Austen but I believe Ms. Kingswood does a creditable job of it. I look forward to reading the remainder of the books in the series.
September 13, 2018
A staple of Regency Romances is the ne’er-do-well father who leaves his family, particularly if the family consists mainly of daughters, penniless and deep in debt. Annabelle Winterton of Woodside Manor and her three sisters find themselves in such a situation. Rather than wringing their hands and moaning or aggressively trying to find a rich man to wed, they devise plans to maintain their independence while still being able to live adequately.
Annabelle is the more scholarly sister, so she will become a governess. As it turns out the Earl of Brackenwood needs a governess. His wife died recently and left him with three daughters that he has no idea what to do with – another staple.
But Mary Kingswood has not written a cliched Regency Romance. The story is enliven by her writing style. Her characters are complex and realistic. The Earl is not over six foot and extremely handsome; he's just a nice if somewhat stressed gentleman. While Annabelle, is lovely, it’s her personality and heart rather than her appearance that is her most attractive feature. Love of course ensues.
Then there’s the mystery surrounding the Earl’s wife’s death. Everyone is a suspect but the twists and turns kept me reading much longer into the night than I should have. I look forward to seeing how the other three sisters fair in their quest for a better life than what their father left them.
Annabelle is the more scholarly sister, so she will become a governess. As it turns out the Earl of Brackenwood needs a governess. His wife died recently and left him with three daughters that he has no idea what to do with – another staple.
But Mary Kingswood has not written a cliched Regency Romance. The story is enliven by her writing style. Her characters are complex and realistic. The Earl is not over six foot and extremely handsome; he's just a nice if somewhat stressed gentleman. While Annabelle, is lovely, it’s her personality and heart rather than her appearance that is her most attractive feature. Love of course ensues.
Then there’s the mystery surrounding the Earl’s wife’s death. Everyone is a suspect but the twists and turns kept me reading much longer into the night than I should have. I look forward to seeing how the other three sisters fair in their quest for a better life than what their father left them.
July 14, 2018
The father dies and leaves a household of young ladies to fend for themselves because he has gambled away the family fortune. Each of his daughters will have to find some form of gainful employment in order to survive.
Annabelle takes up the position of Governess to Allan's daughters.
He quite fancies the idea that she is easy to talk to and finds that he is eager to seek her out to do this, very often.
She enjoys his company but is still madly in love with her former beau and is holding out hope that he will come to his senses and propose to her.
Allan's mother is quite the ogre! She is determined to marry him off again and is really not happy that Annabelle and Allan get along so well.
In addition to the love story there is the mystery of how Allan's first wife died. This needs to be solved rather quickly so that his life can proceed.
The story is written with such feeling that I felt and empathized with the characters without any effort on my part and I found myself laughing, crying, getting angry and so on and loving every moment of it
This is a delightful story and worthwhile reading.
I was supplied with an advance readers copy and my review above is voluntary and unbiased.
Annabelle takes up the position of Governess to Allan's daughters.
He quite fancies the idea that she is easy to talk to and finds that he is eager to seek her out to do this, very often.
She enjoys his company but is still madly in love with her former beau and is holding out hope that he will come to his senses and propose to her.
Allan's mother is quite the ogre! She is determined to marry him off again and is really not happy that Annabelle and Allan get along so well.
In addition to the love story there is the mystery of how Allan's first wife died. This needs to be solved rather quickly so that his life can proceed.
The story is written with such feeling that I felt and empathized with the characters without any effort on my part and I found myself laughing, crying, getting angry and so on and loving every moment of it
This is a delightful story and worthwhile reading.
I was supplied with an advance readers copy and my review above is voluntary and unbiased.
July 16, 2018
When Mr Edmund Winterton of Woodside dies, his daughters find themselves penniless and homeless, so they will have to find genteel employment for themselves.
Annabelle becomes governess to the 3 daughters of the recently bereaved Earl of Brackenwood. She has no idea how to teach, but her pupils can learn all they need from books, Allan is slowly getting used to life as a widower, but his mother is determined that he must marry again and produce an heir. He is determined that he won’t, although the new governess is just the sort of woman he could fall in love with.
A traditional regency novel which was very enjoyable & left me wanting to read the rest in the series. The characters are well portrayed, the pace of the book is very good & kept my interest all the way through. Allan & Annabelle are attracted to each other & find that they are able to talk to each other & gradually become friends. There is a mystery attached & past loves which add to the story. I loved the disapproving Dowager & as well as annoying me she also made me laugh.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Annabelle becomes governess to the 3 daughters of the recently bereaved Earl of Brackenwood. She has no idea how to teach, but her pupils can learn all they need from books, Allan is slowly getting used to life as a widower, but his mother is determined that he must marry again and produce an heir. He is determined that he won’t, although the new governess is just the sort of woman he could fall in love with.
A traditional regency novel which was very enjoyable & left me wanting to read the rest in the series. The characters are well portrayed, the pace of the book is very good & kept my interest all the way through. Allan & Annabelle are attracted to each other & find that they are able to talk to each other & gradually become friends. There is a mystery attached & past loves which add to the story. I loved the disapproving Dowager & as well as annoying me she also made me laugh.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
July 5, 2018
Again Ms. Kingswood didn't disappoint with this first Winterton book series installment.
I like Annabelle's story compared to Rosamund's and I also like the H better than Robin (although in fairness he was still a young immature 24 year old).
The characters in this book are well thought out and since this is a murder mystery, the element of "whodunit" will keep you guessing. Unfortunately (or fortunately) I was able to deduced who the culprit is right away (blame it on all the Agatha Christie books I've read). Over all this is a very good book worth reading by any Regency book buff. No gratuitous sex scenes involve (which I detest when reading a Regency love story) . I love how Ms. Kingswood weaves the story using her gift of words that I could picture myself in the moment with the way she describes a scene or a scenery.
This 5 star review was not because I got the book for free as an ARC reader. I really love the book that I read it until 1 am this morning. Now , I'm sad since I have to look for another book tor read. I can't wait to read "The Chaperone"!.
I like Annabelle's story compared to Rosamund's and I also like the H better than Robin (although in fairness he was still a young immature 24 year old).
The characters in this book are well thought out and since this is a murder mystery, the element of "whodunit" will keep you guessing. Unfortunately (or fortunately) I was able to deduced who the culprit is right away (blame it on all the Agatha Christie books I've read). Over all this is a very good book worth reading by any Regency book buff. No gratuitous sex scenes involve (which I detest when reading a Regency love story) . I love how Ms. Kingswood weaves the story using her gift of words that I could picture myself in the moment with the way she describes a scene or a scenery.
This 5 star review was not because I got the book for free as an ARC reader. I really love the book that I read it until 1 am this morning. Now , I'm sad since I have to look for another book tor read. I can't wait to read "The Chaperone"!.
December 12, 2018
4* for I really liked this. First - and not last - of this series for me. I enjoyed reading this smoothly written story. The heartache of the sisters, suddenly without funds and having to separate. How lucky, they find positions!
Annabelle's governess activities are not the center of the story. However, with her loving family background, she manages to draw the earl closer to his three young daughters. I especially liked the scenes of the French lessons.
The solution to the countess's death was somewhat predictable, but not a given. A "Rebecca" situation also came to mind while reading. This held my interest throughout.
Annabelle's governess activities are not the center of the story. However, with her loving family background, she manages to draw the earl closer to his three young daughters. I especially liked the scenes of the French lessons.
The solution to the countess's death was somewhat predictable, but not a given. A "Rebecca" situation also came to mind while reading. This held my interest throughout.
July 17, 2018
I have devoured all of the books in the Sisters of Allamont Hall and Brothers of the Marquess series written by Mary Kingswood so I was so excited to see that she has another series on the go! This book did not disappoint. It was full of the Regency era charm and intrigue that I love, beautifully written, engaging, and promises more mystery in the books to come. The characters were well-developed and the plot was interesting. If you're into Regency romance this is the book for you!
I received an ARC (mostly because I couldn't wait for it to come out!!).
I received an ARC (mostly because I couldn't wait for it to come out!!).
July 22, 2018
The start (almost) of another great series
I wrote almost because this is number one of the series, but there is a number 0 about the oldest of the sisters. I have read two other series by this author and am eagerly awaiting the newest of Ms Kingswood's works. They all have a bit of mystery to them, but that is secondary to the gentle romance. One comes to genuinely like the characters and it is a joy to come across them as sort of a cameo in subsequent books. I highly recommend these books and now I get to start on the next one. :-)
I wrote almost because this is number one of the series, but there is a number 0 about the oldest of the sisters. I have read two other series by this author and am eagerly awaiting the newest of Ms Kingswood's works. They all have a bit of mystery to them, but that is secondary to the gentle romance. One comes to genuinely like the characters and it is a joy to come across them as sort of a cameo in subsequent books. I highly recommend these books and now I get to start on the next one. :-)
December 18, 2018
Annabelle’s father died leaving her and her sisters in dire straits. They must each find a place to earn their keep. Annabelle becomes a governess to three girls. Allan their father is an Earl. Things become complicated when it is discovered that his wife’s death may have been murder. An interesting story.
September 6, 2018
The Governess (Sisters of Woodside Book 1) By Mary Kingswood
Five stars, just an old-fashioned mystery filled love story..Allen and Annabelle they were a couple who had to see that they were a good match.. Love the letters from the other sisters..Good storyline.
Five stars, just an old-fashioned mystery filled love story..Allen and Annabelle they were a couple who had to see that they were a good match.. Love the letters from the other sisters..Good storyline.
September 9, 2018
Great book!
I really loved this book and will get the next one. I love recency romance. The story line was really good and once I started to read it, couldn't put it down. I always live HAPPY endings!
I really loved this book and will get the next one. I love recency romance. The story line was really good and once I started to read it, couldn't put it down. I always live HAPPY endings!
November 18, 2018
Excellent!
I don't know when I have enjoyed a book more! The writing was very well done, and the characters fully formed and well imagined. I can't wait to continue reading the rest of the series!
I don't know when I have enjoyed a book more! The writing was very well done, and the characters fully formed and well imagined. I can't wait to continue reading the rest of the series!
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