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A Stage for Harriet
When farmer's daughter Harriet Shore flees her small seaside town to accept a position as a governess in London, attending lavish balls and parties is the last thing on her mind. She long ago gave up her childish notion of acting, but when the Duchess of Dorset notices Harriet's uncanny resemblance to her own daughter, Virginia, the duchess offers Harriet the role of a lifetime.Befriending and impersonating Virginia is easy enough at first, but Harriet's double life quickly becomes complicated. When her childhood sweetheart, Stephan Grimsby, arrives on the scene, along with some unwanted suitors, the entire charade threatens to unravel.If Harriet maintains the illusion and pleases the duchess, her dreamed-of happy ending would be within reach, but her new friend Virginia might suffer a terrible fate.
279 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2020
30 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
August 8, 2021
"All the world's a stage." Harriet grew up wanting to become an actress then found out that it was a disreputable profession. She finds a "stage" when she is asked to participate in a scheme where she pretends to be her look-alike.
Harriett has been in love with her neighbor and best friend for a very long time. The differences in their status are pointed out by Stephan's mother. She runs away to become a governess to protect her broken heart, and give Stephan a chance to find an appropriate woman without her being around to see it happening.
Fortunately, this is the beginning of Stephan and Harriet's story. The story is sweet and the characters delightful. There were humorous instances and unexpected plot points. I wanted to cheer for Virginia, Harriet, Stephan, and a sailor named Ralph. In their own way, each of the characters was worthy of my esteem and hope for a happily ever after.
This is a sweet romance that was a lot of fun to read. I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own opinion.
Harriett has been in love with her neighbor and best friend for a very long time. The differences in their status are pointed out by Stephan's mother. She runs away to become a governess to protect her broken heart, and give Stephan a chance to find an appropriate woman without her being around to see it happening.
Fortunately, this is the beginning of Stephan and Harriet's story. The story is sweet and the characters delightful. There were humorous instances and unexpected plot points. I wanted to cheer for Virginia, Harriet, Stephan, and a sailor named Ralph. In their own way, each of the characters was worthy of my esteem and hope for a happily ever after.
This is a sweet romance that was a lot of fun to read. I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own opinion.
April 1, 2021
A true lighthearted regency romp in the tradition of Georgette Heyer. Farmer’s daughter Harriet moves to London to become a governess, and gets drawn into an unlikely but super enjoyable impersonation scheme. Along the way she manages to befriend and help just about everyone she meets. I’m most impressed by the way the author kept the pace moving and balanced the twisty plot, to gather all the threads together at the end. The heroine is sweet and determined. I did wish for just a little more interaction between the heroine and her love interest, as their romance is more or less established from the beginning with very little backstory. But honestly the point of the book is more the journey into the intrigues of high society through the eyes of the slightly naive but clever Harriet. Recommend if you are a fan of Heyer.
July 23, 2021
First of all this cover is drop dead gorgeous! And the story lives up to the amazing cover! I fell right into Harriet’s world and never wanted to come back. From her beautiful personality to her willingness to try a crazy scheme, she made for one of the best main characters! Her story was an exciting roller coaster ride and I loved each dip, turn, and corkscrew that it took me on. If you like regency romance then you will absolutely adore A Stage for Harriet! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 3, 2022
This was an entertaining book to read. The false-identity trope isn't my favorite, but the book was pretty well written. I was able to predict some of the major plot elements, so that was fun. It was a sweet, regency romance.
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January 15, 2021Nominated for a 2021 Swoony Award, to vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67
February 20, 2021
This was a really fun read! Lots of twists and turns in this "lookalikes changing places" regency romance. It was an engaging plot and I could not figure out how the author was going to sort everything out by the end but she did. The romance was very sweet! Some great characters and some unusual circumstances make for a great read. 4.5 stars for this debut novel. I am excited to see what the author writes next!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required.
March 24, 2021
I was a little skeptical at first with the 'parent trap' switching places sort of thing, but this book was excellent!! Lots of action in this book!
July 10, 2021
What a great story!
Harriet is a farmer’s daughter, although her father is the second son of a gentleman. She isn’t sure where she fits in society. She has known Stephan since they were children. She wishes to marry him, but she knows his estate is in debt. With no sizable dowry, and also with the knowledge that Stephan’s mother would not approve, she decides to leave to London to work as a governess. Once she is there, her job as a governess quickly becomes more complicated. But with the opportunity to gain a significant dowry, and fulfill her dream to be an actress, she enters into a scheme with the Duchess of Dorset.
This story was riveting! Some things I loved:
Harriet is the perfect heroine. She is kind and loyal. I love the relationship that forms between her and Virginia. She becomes fiercely protective of her friend. The interactions between Mandie, Virginia, and Harriet are some of my favorite parts of the story. I also love that Harriet is able to handle hard situations. She is very clever.
Stephan and Harriet’s journey to be together is so beautiful. They truly are able to show each other just how much they are willing to do to be with the other.
I liked the Duke from the beginning. He has a kind nature, in contrast to the Duchess who is AWFUL! The moment at the end of the story when the Duke comes home with flowers is beautiful. I love seeing the power of forgiveness between them.
The last few chapters of the story definitely had me on the edge of my seat.
A very entertaining read!
Thank you cedar fort for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
Harriet is a farmer’s daughter, although her father is the second son of a gentleman. She isn’t sure where she fits in society. She has known Stephan since they were children. She wishes to marry him, but she knows his estate is in debt. With no sizable dowry, and also with the knowledge that Stephan’s mother would not approve, she decides to leave to London to work as a governess. Once she is there, her job as a governess quickly becomes more complicated. But with the opportunity to gain a significant dowry, and fulfill her dream to be an actress, she enters into a scheme with the Duchess of Dorset.
This story was riveting! Some things I loved:
Harriet is the perfect heroine. She is kind and loyal. I love the relationship that forms between her and Virginia. She becomes fiercely protective of her friend. The interactions between Mandie, Virginia, and Harriet are some of my favorite parts of the story. I also love that Harriet is able to handle hard situations. She is very clever.
Stephan and Harriet’s journey to be together is so beautiful. They truly are able to show each other just how much they are willing to do to be with the other.
I liked the Duke from the beginning. He has a kind nature, in contrast to the Duchess who is AWFUL! The moment at the end of the story when the Duke comes home with flowers is beautiful. I love seeing the power of forgiveness between them.
The last few chapters of the story definitely had me on the edge of my seat.
A very entertaining read!
Thank you cedar fort for the complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
March 16, 2022
Wow! What is not to love. I had meant to post this review long ago and apparently spaced it which is terrible since this story is definitely one not to miss!
I can't help but love the characters Mary-Celeste Ricks brings to life through her words. I also appreciate that her characters are not just lords and ladies, but even a farmer's daughter takes center stage. I really liked how Harriet got to know Virginia, who she had agreed to act in place of due to her confinement. And through getting to know her they became friends, of course that friendship was then tested when she had to choose between gaining her dream or ruining her friend's. You'll have to read to find out what happens, but you won't be disappointed, I guarantee!!
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Stephen. I have such a weakness for childhood friends to lovers and this story does not disappoint.
There are funny suitors to avoid, friends to deceive, and love to find in this wonderful book I highly recommend!!!
I can't help but love the characters Mary-Celeste Ricks brings to life through her words. I also appreciate that her characters are not just lords and ladies, but even a farmer's daughter takes center stage. I really liked how Harriet got to know Virginia, who she had agreed to act in place of due to her confinement. And through getting to know her they became friends, of course that friendship was then tested when she had to choose between gaining her dream or ruining her friend's. You'll have to read to find out what happens, but you won't be disappointed, I guarantee!!
Lastly, I would be remiss if I didn't mention Stephen. I have such a weakness for childhood friends to lovers and this story does not disappoint.
There are funny suitors to avoid, friends to deceive, and love to find in this wonderful book I highly recommend!!!
May 26, 2021
A Stage for Harriet by Mary-Celeste Ricks boasts a rich, eye-catching cover that invites the reader into this British Regency period romance. Harriet and Stephan’s childhood friendship blossoms into romance early in the novel, leaving most of the story to focus on this couple confirming their affections and pursuing a way to overcome the obstacles separating them. Sweet, romantic moments laced in with their efforts and kept me reading.
A Stage for Harriet offers a clean romance with young characters who experience limited character development. The friendship between Harriet, Virginia, and Mandie stands as a prominent element in the story and is filled with teasing and sarcastic humor. Although there are some serious situations in the storyline, it maintains a light, YA historical fiction feel.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
A Stage for Harriet offers a clean romance with young characters who experience limited character development. The friendship between Harriet, Virginia, and Mandie stands as a prominent element in the story and is filled with teasing and sarcastic humor. Although there are some serious situations in the storyline, it maintains a light, YA historical fiction feel.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
June 1, 2024
A super cute and sweet Regency romance it’s got a slow burn to it, but lots of twists and turns and Harriet has to play a part to help a Duke and Duchess with a rather precarious situation but when the time comes down to it, Harriet needs to decide if she wants to Secure the dowry that has been promised or be true to a new friend and do what is right.
I love the main characters. They’re all well thought out. The point of view at the beginning of the book were a little confusing, but once everything started happening, it started to make sense. I think Author did an amazing job with putting characters together and making up a very good deceitful villain . This has been a wonderful read. I really enjoyed it. I will definitely recommend it to those that are a fan of clean or closed door romances or if you like scandalous twists from the Regency era if you like slow burn romances, and true love, this is definitely the book for you.
@cedarfort
I love the main characters. They’re all well thought out. The point of view at the beginning of the book were a little confusing, but once everything started happening, it started to make sense. I think Author did an amazing job with putting characters together and making up a very good deceitful villain . This has been a wonderful read. I really enjoyed it. I will definitely recommend it to those that are a fan of clean or closed door romances or if you like scandalous twists from the Regency era if you like slow burn romances, and true love, this is definitely the book for you.
@cedarfort
October 4, 2021
Being new to books set in the 1800s I was pleasantly surprised. I adored the classy smoothness of this book. Everything flowed well, characters were wonderful and distinct, and emotions were so strong I felt like I was having them myself. A Stage For Harriet was a wonderful and refreshing change of pace.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and love how wonderfully written it was by author Mary-Celeste Ricks. I look forward to reading more by her and highly reccomend reading A Stage For Harriet. It was cute, classic, wholesome, and had a few intense moments that were completely entrancing. It is an easy read, even for someone new to more historical/ royal type writing.
I truly enjoyed reading this book and love how wonderfully written it was by author Mary-Celeste Ricks. I look forward to reading more by her and highly reccomend reading A Stage For Harriet. It was cute, classic, wholesome, and had a few intense moments that were completely entrancing. It is an easy read, even for someone new to more historical/ royal type writing.
January 20, 2021
A Stage for Harriet by Mary-Celeste Ricks was an enjoyable unique book! When I first read the description I was thinking whew that’s a lot going on BUT I was pleased surprised how well it all flowed into a wonderful story! I adored the ladies Harriet, Virginia and Mandie and Stephan is quite the sweetheart! Twist and turns with lots of secrets swirling around. The character dynamic was enjoyable and the fight for love is real! I loved the complete closure at the end of the book... no stone unturned.
July 21, 2021
This was a unique Regency romance and a wonderful debut novel for author Mary-Celeste Ricks.
What I really enjoyed about this novel was all the fun twists that happened throughout the story. It was a romance between Harriet and Stephan, but it was also Virginia's story which was kind of interesting and definitely kept me turning the pages wanting to know how things would turn out for all of them. The writing was well-done and the romance was clean.
I was received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What I really enjoyed about this novel was all the fun twists that happened throughout the story. It was a romance between Harriet and Stephan, but it was also Virginia's story which was kind of interesting and definitely kept me turning the pages wanting to know how things would turn out for all of them. The writing was well-done and the romance was clean.
I was received a copy of this novel from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 3, 2022
Such a cute and loveable story to start 2022! There were quite a bit of moments where I wasn’t sure where the story was going but the author nicely paced everything to get sorted out and it all just fell into place! Harriet is such a delightful character and I really enjoyed her fun and chaotic tale! Harriet and Stephen are great and I really liked their cute romance!
So happy I got to read this, I definitely recommend if you are looking for a clean regency quick read!
*This book was given to me from the publisher but all thoughts are my own.
So happy I got to read this, I definitely recommend if you are looking for a clean regency quick read!
*This book was given to me from the publisher but all thoughts are my own.
January 17, 2021
Wonderful debut novel!
Fun plotline, likeable characters, romantic scenes, well written- it was everything I like in a regency romance. Yes, lookalikes changing places is not a new concept and it's hard to believe no one would've dug deeper to find out such a scandal, but Harriet is very likeable and I was rooting for her to get everything she deserved. I look forward to Ricks' next novel!
Fun plotline, likeable characters, romantic scenes, well written- it was everything I like in a regency romance. Yes, lookalikes changing places is not a new concept and it's hard to believe no one would've dug deeper to find out such a scandal, but Harriet is very likeable and I was rooting for her to get everything she deserved. I look forward to Ricks' next novel!
February 8, 2021
A Stage for Harriet is a topsy turvy tale. After one too many angry outbursts from her best friend's mother, Harriet flees to London to take a position as a governess. Her likeness makes her the focus of a desperate mother hoping to cover up an embarrassing situation. All sorts of fun, danger, and confusion ensue. This book by Mary-Celeste Ricks is a little reminiscent of Jen Turano's writing style.
March 14, 2022
clean romance
A fun story of opportunity and living in another’s shoes.
I enjoyed the characters and how first impressions were often changed when viewed from the other’s perspective or after really getting to know the person.
The characters and storyline are well written and kept the reader guessing as to how things would be resolved.
The following book “Green as Grass” gives a glimpse of a couple of characters that are in this book and how they see the story.
A fun story of opportunity and living in another’s shoes.
I enjoyed the characters and how first impressions were often changed when viewed from the other’s perspective or after really getting to know the person.
The characters and storyline are well written and kept the reader guessing as to how things would be resolved.
The following book “Green as Grass” gives a glimpse of a couple of characters that are in this book and how they see the story.
January 11, 2022
I decided to go through my Kindle to see what unread books I had, and this one showed up. Based on the title and cover, it’s not what I thought it would be. In a good way, though! It’s always fun to be surprised. I didn’t read the synopsis before I started reading.
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I was pleasantly entertained by this story, but I don’t want to say much and give anything away. Clean, historical romance.
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I was pleasantly entertained by this story, but I don’t want to say much and give anything away. Clean, historical romance.
January 17, 2022
Love for All the Ladies!
What a great story! The characters in this story lead an intriguing life. Harriet wants to be more than she is. Virginia wants to be less than she is and Mandie is just a darling. The men in their lives just want them. Will they each end up happy? Read this fine book and find out for yourself.
What a great story! The characters in this story lead an intriguing life. Harriet wants to be more than she is. Virginia wants to be less than she is and Mandie is just a darling. The men in their lives just want them. Will they each end up happy? Read this fine book and find out for yourself.
Read
January 18, 2021A fun read!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! There were some fun twists in the plot and the characters were loveable and interesting. The book was entertaining throughout and the ending was so perfect. Overall a great, light hearted read.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book! There were some fun twists in the plot and the characters were loveable and interesting. The book was entertaining throughout and the ending was so perfect. Overall a great, light hearted read.
January 22, 2021
When I pick up a romance novel to read, what I really want is a happy escape, and A Stage for Harriet provides it beautifully. Ricks, in her first novel, reveals a mastery of the Regency Romance genre, and her writing flows invitingly.
February 6, 2021
Really good book, I highly recommend it.
Not your typical romance. Characters were well written, story and dialogue were funny. Relationship between the three friends was my favorite part. Hero wasn’t a drop dead gorgeous gentleman of the ton but a nice normal man.
Not your typical romance. Characters were well written, story and dialogue were funny. Relationship between the three friends was my favorite part. Hero wasn’t a drop dead gorgeous gentleman of the ton but a nice normal man.
July 10, 2021
A fun and cleaver book
A Stage for Harriet is a fabulous book and I highly recommend it. A clean, sweet story set in the regency era. I particularly liked the unique storyline and all the fun chaos that goes on with this fun tale.
A Stage for Harriet is a fabulous book and I highly recommend it. A clean, sweet story set in the regency era. I particularly liked the unique storyline and all the fun chaos that goes on with this fun tale.
September 25, 2021
Good
I enjoyed this story full of all sorts of pressures. The characters are likeable, and the situation fraught. Lots of action and tension. It all works out famously in the end. Really appreciated Harriet's integrity and gumption.
I enjoyed this story full of all sorts of pressures. The characters are likeable, and the situation fraught. Lots of action and tension. It all works out famously in the end. Really appreciated Harriet's integrity and gumption.
January 20, 2021
Sweet and Exciting
I loved the love in this book. So much happiness but so much fun adventure to get there. Great read!
I loved the love in this book. So much happiness but so much fun adventure to get there. Great read!
July 6, 2021
Great book
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I loved the characters and their stories. A well written story with intrigue. A definite page turner.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I loved the characters and their stories. A well written story with intrigue. A definite page turner.
July 27, 2021
Nice Prince and Pauper connections, some solid characters, motivations are a little disconnected.
August 3, 2021
Loved it—unique storyline, lighthearted read:)
December 19, 2021
Cute and lighthearted story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews