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The Rags-to-Riches Governess
From impoverished governess…
…to wealthy heiress
Governess Leah Thame learns she’s inherited a fortune the day her employer, the enigmatic Earl of Dolphinstone, returns from abroad. They share an instant connection, but in order to claim her inheritance, Leah must resign and find a husband. The guarded widower offers a convenient marriage to stop her leaving, but Leah refuses. She won’t marry the man who’s captured her heart unless there’s a chance of her love being returned…
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Lady Tregowan’s Will
Book 1: The Rags-to-Riches Governess
…to wealthy heiress
Governess Leah Thame learns she’s inherited a fortune the day her employer, the enigmatic Earl of Dolphinstone, returns from abroad. They share an instant connection, but in order to claim her inheritance, Leah must resign and find a husband. The guarded widower offers a convenient marriage to stop her leaving, but Leah refuses. She won’t marry the man who’s captured her heart unless there’s a chance of her love being returned…
From Harlequin Your romantic escape to the past.
Lady Tregowan’s Will
Book 1: The Rags-to-Riches Governess
215 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2021
59 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Janice Preston
84 books152 followersI grew up in Wembley, North London, with a love of reading, writing stories and animals. After leaving school at eighteen, I moved to Devon and any thoughts of writing became lost in the hectic rush of life as a farmer’s wife, with two children and many animals to care for. When my children left home for university, I discovered a love of history and of the Regency period in particular and began to write seriously for the first time since my teens.
Real life then got in the way and I didn't write again until 2009. I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2012 and my first Regency romance was accepted for publication by Harlequin Mills & Boon in late 2013.
I now live in the West Midlands with my second husband and two cats and I continue to write Regency romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon.
Real life then got in the way and I didn't write again until 2009. I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2012 and my first Regency romance was accepted for publication by Harlequin Mills & Boon in late 2013.
I now live in the West Midlands with my second husband and two cats and I continue to write Regency romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
November 11, 2023
Nice story. Governess who loves the children who she looks after. Finds out she has inherited money and property. But she must leave them to claim her inheritance. Why helping them form a relationship with there widowed father. She forms a friendship with him. Will this brig her the love she desires.
January 21, 2021
I just loved his story. I like the whole idea of the will and the legacy. This first story mainly concerned Leah Thame. Leah was the governess to two sweet little boys and their baby sister. Their father is the Earl of Dolphinstone (Dolph), a widower, who felt he had let down his first wife and doesn’t wish to remarry. Dolph has an event in his past that he needs to come to terms with. Leah and Dolph are attracted to each other but Leah wants to marry for love. This was such an engaging read and the characters were very likeable. There are a number of interesting secondary characters and I look forward to reading their stories.
January 24, 2021
The Rag’s to Riches Governess is the first book in the whole new series; Lady Tregowan’s Will which is all about three young women from completely different backgrounds who suddenly find out through said will that they are sisters. I was fascinated by the story, it’s a wonderful concept and one which has clearly taken a long process for Preston to write as there are such complexities within the overall story of how these three women are related, yet it’s brought together with such thought and attention to detail you just know this is going to be a wonderful little series.
What particularly struck me with this book is that Preston tackles the taboo subject of suicide with the utmost care and sensitivity, she doesn’t hound the reader with it but instead, she shows what such a devastating act does to a family, it’s always there hovering over Piers’ head like a murky overcast cloud, following him around and never leaving him. I take my hat to Janice Preston for her incorporating it so beautifully within the story and in doing so makes Piers’ happily ever after all the sweeter.
I really enjoyed the opening, we get to know Leah right from the off, we know her background and have an insight of the direction of the journey she and her two newly found sisters will go on over the course of the series. I really liked that we do meet all three women at the same time, and have a glimpse into Aurelie’s and Beatrice’s characters.
Piers Duval; Earl of Dolphinstone (otherwise known as Dolph – personally, I prefer Piers so that is how he will be known in this review) after the death of his wife he takes himself off abroad with the diplomatic core to help resolve the aftermath of Waterloo, leaving behind his three grieving children into the care of Miss Thames, their governess.
On his return he comes with a gorgeous huge dog named Wolf, a cheeky friend; Hinkley who I thought was a wonderful addition to the story and a sense that he may not be able to fit right back into his children’s life again. But as with all romances, there is also the small obstacle of Piers’ infatuation with his beautiful, disciplined, caring and kind governess who sets his once frozen heart alight with promise.
Leah Thames gets summoned to a solicitor’s office, once there she finds that what he says is going to change her life, not only does she find out that she is to inherited a fortune but has two half sister’s she knew nothing about, she is shocked – as anyone in her position would be – and also hurt that she has lived a life believing one thing and finding out the truth of who she is. Leah is confused and saddened but also elated as she had always wished for sisters. But, don’t think all will be hunky-dory, oh, no! As there is a wee clause, which will certainly make life challenging!
I really liked Piers, I thought he had a quite contradictory personality which also confused him; on one hand, he is the stereotypical aristocrat; proud, charismatic, enigmatic, a little stuck in the mud and then there is the other side, constantly feel guilt, heart-break, coldness, evasive, distant vulnerability oozes from him and makes you want to hug him tight. Despite all that there is a really charming and playfulness about him, I loved his kindness and his passion and he stole my heart as he started to get to know his three children again; Nickie, Stevie and Tilly.
I really liked the blossoming romance between Leah and Piers, they both try to hide how the other effects them, they are both stubborn and I did at times want to bang their heads together while shouting ‘you fools, your perfect for each other‘ I loved the tingling and shimmering tension which hangs in the air around them, it crackles with pent up lust and yearning, just fabulous.
My only misgivings about this is the title, I can see where it’s coming from; The Rags to Riches Governess– a woman not too well off suddenly finding herself on the pinnacle of being well-off – but still it feels very samey, it’s a cliché and I think a more original title would have worked so much better with the uniqueness of the story, this isn’t the stereotypical fluffy romance but a very artfully written and charming romance.
Despite the rather cliched title, this is a real winner for historical romance fan’s, The Rags to Riches Governess is an emotional, heart-warming, captivating and highly enjoyable read, which is not only cute and cosy but very steamy and seductive with a sad undercurrent which adds depth and atmosphere.
Lastly, I must mention the cover…my goodness the art department have it spot on! This is exactly how I saw Thea in my head while reading, it’s a beautiful cover and reflects the story perfectly. Huge thumb up!
What particularly struck me with this book is that Preston tackles the taboo subject of suicide with the utmost care and sensitivity, she doesn’t hound the reader with it but instead, she shows what such a devastating act does to a family, it’s always there hovering over Piers’ head like a murky overcast cloud, following him around and never leaving him. I take my hat to Janice Preston for her incorporating it so beautifully within the story and in doing so makes Piers’ happily ever after all the sweeter.
I really enjoyed the opening, we get to know Leah right from the off, we know her background and have an insight of the direction of the journey she and her two newly found sisters will go on over the course of the series. I really liked that we do meet all three women at the same time, and have a glimpse into Aurelie’s and Beatrice’s characters.
Piers Duval; Earl of Dolphinstone (otherwise known as Dolph – personally, I prefer Piers so that is how he will be known in this review) after the death of his wife he takes himself off abroad with the diplomatic core to help resolve the aftermath of Waterloo, leaving behind his three grieving children into the care of Miss Thames, their governess.
On his return he comes with a gorgeous huge dog named Wolf, a cheeky friend; Hinkley who I thought was a wonderful addition to the story and a sense that he may not be able to fit right back into his children’s life again. But as with all romances, there is also the small obstacle of Piers’ infatuation with his beautiful, disciplined, caring and kind governess who sets his once frozen heart alight with promise.
Leah Thames gets summoned to a solicitor’s office, once there she finds that what he says is going to change her life, not only does she find out that she is to inherited a fortune but has two half sister’s she knew nothing about, she is shocked – as anyone in her position would be – and also hurt that she has lived a life believing one thing and finding out the truth of who she is. Leah is confused and saddened but also elated as she had always wished for sisters. But, don’t think all will be hunky-dory, oh, no! As there is a wee clause, which will certainly make life challenging!
I really liked Piers, I thought he had a quite contradictory personality which also confused him; on one hand, he is the stereotypical aristocrat; proud, charismatic, enigmatic, a little stuck in the mud and then there is the other side, constantly feel guilt, heart-break, coldness, evasive, distant vulnerability oozes from him and makes you want to hug him tight. Despite all that there is a really charming and playfulness about him, I loved his kindness and his passion and he stole my heart as he started to get to know his three children again; Nickie, Stevie and Tilly.
I really liked the blossoming romance between Leah and Piers, they both try to hide how the other effects them, they are both stubborn and I did at times want to bang their heads together while shouting ‘you fools, your perfect for each other‘ I loved the tingling and shimmering tension which hangs in the air around them, it crackles with pent up lust and yearning, just fabulous.
My only misgivings about this is the title, I can see where it’s coming from; The Rags to Riches Governess– a woman not too well off suddenly finding herself on the pinnacle of being well-off – but still it feels very samey, it’s a cliché and I think a more original title would have worked so much better with the uniqueness of the story, this isn’t the stereotypical fluffy romance but a very artfully written and charming romance.
Despite the rather cliched title, this is a real winner for historical romance fan’s, The Rags to Riches Governess is an emotional, heart-warming, captivating and highly enjoyable read, which is not only cute and cosy but very steamy and seductive with a sad undercurrent which adds depth and atmosphere.
Lastly, I must mention the cover…my goodness the art department have it spot on! This is exactly how I saw Thea in my head while reading, it’s a beautiful cover and reflects the story perfectly. Huge thumb up!
January 23, 2021
The Rags-to-Riches Governess
Lady Tregowan's Will Series #1
Janice Preston
https://www.facebook.com/janice.prest...
Release Date 02/01/2021 ebook, 01/26/2021 paperback
Publisher Harlequin Historical/ Mills&Boon Historicals
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
From impoverished governess…
…to wealthy heiress
Governess Leah Thame learns she’s inherited a fortune the day her employer, the enigmatic Earl of Dolphinstone, returns from abroad. They share an instant connection, but in order to claim her inheritance, Leah must resign and find a husband. The guarded widower offers a convenient marriage to stop her leaving, but Leah refuses. She won’t marry the man who’s captured her heart unless there’s a chance of her love being returned…
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he see in time what he might miss if he is not cautious...
Oh what a delightful read this first in a series is. So full of promises for the next books.
I loved the main characters were simple persons, no bluestocking nor rake, no ruined lady nor wounded soldier.
Leah follows the path designed for her, she is gently breed but not enough to be afforded a season. Finding a position was her only option. And since she has stepped in the shoes of all governesses, she also learned so valid lessons. Like be wary of men, they tend to demand more than give.
Still she is good at her line of work, she observes and listens, why she has easily won her last charges’ affection. And when she knows she should be cautious with her employer, she quickly realizes there is more to this man who ran away from his home. She sees a man but also a father who feels awkward with his children, trying to better himself to win them back. In pain due to his own mistakes but willing to learn how to be with his boys.
Dolphinstone knows he did not react as he should have, he ran away and left behind his grieving children. Now back home, he must reacquaint with them but time and distance put a strain on their relationship. The love is still there, and with Leah’s help, he will slowly regain it, one step at a time. If only he was not so attracted to his children’s governess. He believes he has nothing to offer, he can’t risk an other woman’s safety, trusting it is own carelessness which broke his late wife’s spirit.
Thus the lies he tells to himself, everything to avoid looking at his failure and his growing feelings for Leah.
Their romance is such a lively moving one, they are both guilty of the limitations they themselves rose for one another. It was so great to see Leah stands for herself, to never lower her own expectations when she could have chosen to compromise with her own dreams. And Dolphinstone is so sweet at making amend.
5 stars.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen sweet lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Lady Tregowan's Will Series #1
Janice Preston
https://www.facebook.com/janice.prest...
Release Date 02/01/2021 ebook, 01/26/2021 paperback
Publisher Harlequin Historical/ Mills&Boon Historicals
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
From impoverished governess…
…to wealthy heiress
Governess Leah Thame learns she’s inherited a fortune the day her employer, the enigmatic Earl of Dolphinstone, returns from abroad. They share an instant connection, but in order to claim her inheritance, Leah must resign and find a husband. The guarded widower offers a convenient marriage to stop her leaving, but Leah refuses. She won’t marry the man who’s captured her heart unless there’s a chance of her love being returned…
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will he see in time what he might miss if he is not cautious...
Oh what a delightful read this first in a series is. So full of promises for the next books.
I loved the main characters were simple persons, no bluestocking nor rake, no ruined lady nor wounded soldier.
Leah follows the path designed for her, she is gently breed but not enough to be afforded a season. Finding a position was her only option. And since she has stepped in the shoes of all governesses, she also learned so valid lessons. Like be wary of men, they tend to demand more than give.
Still she is good at her line of work, she observes and listens, why she has easily won her last charges’ affection. And when she knows she should be cautious with her employer, she quickly realizes there is more to this man who ran away from his home. She sees a man but also a father who feels awkward with his children, trying to better himself to win them back. In pain due to his own mistakes but willing to learn how to be with his boys.
Dolphinstone knows he did not react as he should have, he ran away and left behind his grieving children. Now back home, he must reacquaint with them but time and distance put a strain on their relationship. The love is still there, and with Leah’s help, he will slowly regain it, one step at a time. If only he was not so attracted to his children’s governess. He believes he has nothing to offer, he can’t risk an other woman’s safety, trusting it is own carelessness which broke his late wife’s spirit.
Thus the lies he tells to himself, everything to avoid looking at his failure and his growing feelings for Leah.
Their romance is such a lively moving one, they are both guilty of the limitations they themselves rose for one another. It was so great to see Leah stands for herself, to never lower her own expectations when she could have chosen to compromise with her own dreams. And Dolphinstone is so sweet at making amend.
5 stars.
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen sweet lovemaking scenes.
I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
May 12, 2021
The Rags-To-Riches Governess (Mills & Boon Historical) is the first book in the Lady Tregowan's Will trilogy by Janice Preston.
What a wonderful start to a trilogy this book is. Three women, half-sisters unknown to each other find themselves wealthy women after they inherit money from the widow of their shared father. There is one condition, they must have a season in London and find a husband. If they choose not to then they will still have a small allowance, and a home so whatever they decide they will be much better off than they currently are.
This first book is Governess Leah Thame's story. She currently looks after three children whose mother died when they were very young, and whose father, in his grief, left them in her capable hands before leaving the country. She could never understand how a man could leave his children so soon after they lost their mother.
When Leah realises that she needs to leave the children too in order to gain her inheritance, even the thought of it breaks her heart. When their father returns and her anger at him running off turns to understanding and perhaps caring, her decision about going to London becomes even more difficult.
Could there ever be love between an employer and his governess, if there is then how will it affect her inheritance? You will have to read to find out.
I absolutely adored this story, it was believable, it was feel-good, and I enjoyed reading how all the relationships developed, especially those between the children and their father once he returns home.
I recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to the next in the trilogy
What a wonderful start to a trilogy this book is. Three women, half-sisters unknown to each other find themselves wealthy women after they inherit money from the widow of their shared father. There is one condition, they must have a season in London and find a husband. If they choose not to then they will still have a small allowance, and a home so whatever they decide they will be much better off than they currently are.
This first book is Governess Leah Thame's story. She currently looks after three children whose mother died when they were very young, and whose father, in his grief, left them in her capable hands before leaving the country. She could never understand how a man could leave his children so soon after they lost their mother.
When Leah realises that she needs to leave the children too in order to gain her inheritance, even the thought of it breaks her heart. When their father returns and her anger at him running off turns to understanding and perhaps caring, her decision about going to London becomes even more difficult.
Could there ever be love between an employer and his governess, if there is then how will it affect her inheritance? You will have to read to find out.
I absolutely adored this story, it was believable, it was feel-good, and I enjoyed reading how all the relationships developed, especially those between the children and their father once he returns home.
I recommend this book and I am very much looking forward to the next in the trilogy
February 10, 2021
The Rags To Riches Governess is book one of Lady Tregowan’s Will series of historical romances.
The story opens with Leah Thame learning that she is to inherit a small fortune, which will allow her to leave her role as a governess and become a lady in society. However, the will has a few conditions that must be adhered to before Leah can claim her inheritance.
Currently Leah is governess to the three young children of Lord Dolphinstone. After their mother died and their father left for an extended trip to Europe, Leah is all that the children have and strong bonds have been created between them.
I enjoyed the direction of this storyline, and Leah’s character added extra elements that I thought worked well. Her boldness to speak her mind and her ability to soothe a situation made her an ideal person to begin this new series. This story introduces us to the main characters of the next two books which I shall look forward to reading.
The story opens with Leah Thame learning that she is to inherit a small fortune, which will allow her to leave her role as a governess and become a lady in society. However, the will has a few conditions that must be adhered to before Leah can claim her inheritance.
Currently Leah is governess to the three young children of Lord Dolphinstone. After their mother died and their father left for an extended trip to Europe, Leah is all that the children have and strong bonds have been created between them.
I enjoyed the direction of this storyline, and Leah’s character added extra elements that I thought worked well. Her boldness to speak her mind and her ability to soothe a situation made her an ideal person to begin this new series. This story introduces us to the main characters of the next two books which I shall look forward to reading.
April 9, 2022
Honestly, I'm in a mood and don't have much to say about this one. It was…fine? Pretty run-of-the-mill, an easy quick read but not memorable. The main character felt a little thin, and the whole marriage aspect doesn't actually come into play until fairly late in the book, although that's something to blame on the synopsis, not the author. I didn't really felt the draw between the hero and heroine, it came across as sort of forced, or at least kind of telling-not-showing. But I did like that the circumstances of everything felt believable for the times, and there's a dog AND a cat shows up later, too, so you know…bonus. Not amazing by any means, but not bad.
November 10, 2023
Skaitau antrą kartą, nes primišau, kol gavau tęsinius. Vėlgi malonu pasinerti ir prisiminti. O dabar norisi dar kartą skaityti tęsinius :D
Malonu pasinerti į istorinį meilės romaną. Kitokios gyvenimo ir merginimo taisyklės nei šiais laikais ir savitas žavesys. Tikras malonumas skaityti. Nekantrauju imtis tęsinio.
Malonu pasinerti į istorinį meilės romaną. Kitokios gyvenimo ir merginimo taisyklės nei šiais laikais ir savitas žavesys. Tikras malonumas skaityti. Nekantrauju imtis tęsinio.
Read
January 2, 2021Categories
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance
Miniseries
Lady Tregowan's Will (Book #1)
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance
Miniseries
Lady Tregowan's Will (Book #1)
May 27, 2022
Historical romance is a new one for me, but I quite liked this book and am looking forward to reading the other 2 in the series to find out the stories of the other 2 sisters.
May 19, 2025
4.5⭐️
April 5, 2021
Terrific start to the new series. The story opens as Leah answers a summons to a solicitor's office near her current place of employment. There she learns of an inheritance and the stunning story behind it. She shares her legacy with two other young women who turn out to be her half-sisters. All three stand to inherit a substantial amount of money and property if they fulfill the conditions: travel to London to partake of the Season and marry within a year. The possibilities consume Leah's mind as she returns to Dolphin Court, only to discover that her employer has returned after more than a year away.
Dolph hired Leah as his children's governess right after his wife's death and promptly left for the Continent. Blaming himself for Rebecca's death, he hid behind his work with the Government after Waterloo. Eventually, he felt guilty about abandoning his children and returned home to take up his life there again.
The first meeting between Dolph and Leah was a little rough. He arrived shortly before she returned from her appointment, which got them off on the wrong foot. Things were also a little awkward because the children were hesitant with Dolph. I liked that Leah stood up for herself and put her irritation aside to ease Dolph and his children's situation. Leah faces a dilemma because she doesn't want to leave the children until they are comfortable with their father, but she also has a deadline to meet.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Dolph and Leah develop. There is no doubt about the attraction that flares between them, but both try to resist it. Leah is wary of men and their intentions after a few bad experiences, and Dolph swore never to marry again. I liked watching them together as Leah guided Dolph along the path of getting to know his children. At the same time, Leah and Dolph found their feelings for each other grew stronger. There were some sweet scenes between them, as well as some very intense ones. Dolph continues to believe that he cannot make a woman happy, but when Leah decides to leave, he comes up with a businesslike marriage proposal. Though she loves both him and the children, she wants to be loved in return, so she turns him down and leaves for London.
I loved Leah's arrival in London, where she immediately starts to get acquainted with her sister Aurelia. Though there's plenty to do and learn, Dolph and the children are never far from her mind. She can't help comparing her present admirers to Dolph even though she knows she needs to move on. Meanwhile, back at Dolphin Court, Dolph can't get Leah out of his mind. I laughed at the conversation with his friend Hinckley, who knew precisely what Dolph's problem was. I loved seeing him rush off to London, only to be faced with the new Leah. I liked seeing him have to work a little to convince Leah of how he felt and that Leah stood up for her needs. I look forward to seeing them in the other books in the series.
I also look forward to getting to know Aurelia and Beatrice. Aurelia arrived in London before Leah and has already formed some strong opinions. I can see that their chaperone will have her hands full with Aurelia. It sounds like she has an interesting backstory, and I can't wait to read it. Beatrice arrived late enough that Aurelia and Leah thought they would have to get her. Her backstory seems to involve an unpleasant brother who may create some problems. That, too, should be an exciting story.
There was also a nice secondary story going on between Dolph's friend George Hinckley and Philippa, the vicar's daughter. I wasn't sure about him at first, but he quickly grew on me. I loved seeing the changes in him the more time he spent with Philippa.
One of the things I liked about this book was the way it handled the subject of suicide. The effects on those left behind were vividly portrayed without being clinical or made light of. I liked how Leah shared her father's experiences as a vicar in a way that eased Dolph's guilt.
Dolph hired Leah as his children's governess right after his wife's death and promptly left for the Continent. Blaming himself for Rebecca's death, he hid behind his work with the Government after Waterloo. Eventually, he felt guilty about abandoning his children and returned home to take up his life there again.
The first meeting between Dolph and Leah was a little rough. He arrived shortly before she returned from her appointment, which got them off on the wrong foot. Things were also a little awkward because the children were hesitant with Dolph. I liked that Leah stood up for herself and put her irritation aside to ease Dolph and his children's situation. Leah faces a dilemma because she doesn't want to leave the children until they are comfortable with their father, but she also has a deadline to meet.
I enjoyed watching the relationship between Dolph and Leah develop. There is no doubt about the attraction that flares between them, but both try to resist it. Leah is wary of men and their intentions after a few bad experiences, and Dolph swore never to marry again. I liked watching them together as Leah guided Dolph along the path of getting to know his children. At the same time, Leah and Dolph found their feelings for each other grew stronger. There were some sweet scenes between them, as well as some very intense ones. Dolph continues to believe that he cannot make a woman happy, but when Leah decides to leave, he comes up with a businesslike marriage proposal. Though she loves both him and the children, she wants to be loved in return, so she turns him down and leaves for London.
I loved Leah's arrival in London, where she immediately starts to get acquainted with her sister Aurelia. Though there's plenty to do and learn, Dolph and the children are never far from her mind. She can't help comparing her present admirers to Dolph even though she knows she needs to move on. Meanwhile, back at Dolphin Court, Dolph can't get Leah out of his mind. I laughed at the conversation with his friend Hinckley, who knew precisely what Dolph's problem was. I loved seeing him rush off to London, only to be faced with the new Leah. I liked seeing him have to work a little to convince Leah of how he felt and that Leah stood up for her needs. I look forward to seeing them in the other books in the series.
I also look forward to getting to know Aurelia and Beatrice. Aurelia arrived in London before Leah and has already formed some strong opinions. I can see that their chaperone will have her hands full with Aurelia. It sounds like she has an interesting backstory, and I can't wait to read it. Beatrice arrived late enough that Aurelia and Leah thought they would have to get her. Her backstory seems to involve an unpleasant brother who may create some problems. That, too, should be an exciting story.
There was also a nice secondary story going on between Dolph's friend George Hinckley and Philippa, the vicar's daughter. I wasn't sure about him at first, but he quickly grew on me. I loved seeing the changes in him the more time he spent with Philippa.
One of the things I liked about this book was the way it handled the subject of suicide. The effects on those left behind were vividly portrayed without being clinical or made light of. I liked how Leah shared her father's experiences as a vicar in a way that eased Dolph's guilt.
January 2, 2021
Review to follow
May 24, 2021
WHAT ABOUT LOVE!
Leah is the loving governess to the children of Lord Dolphinstone. He left as soon as he hired her, devastated over the death of his wife. Eighteen months later he returns from his work with the government on the continent. The day he returns, Leah finds out she has an inheritance of property and money, plus the joy of new family. The immediate unexpected attraction between Dolph and Leah, creates so much turmoil for both. His is based on guilt, hers is based on love. Torn between her love for the children and their father, she painfully leaves them for London under stipulations of the her inheritance. Dolph comes to realize what he feels for Leah is love. If only he's not too late to bring her back to his family. Rambunctious children keep the story from being too depressing. Interesting to note was some awareness of postpartum depression during the Regency period. The first book in the series just wets the appetite for the next two.
Leah is the loving governess to the children of Lord Dolphinstone. He left as soon as he hired her, devastated over the death of his wife. Eighteen months later he returns from his work with the government on the continent. The day he returns, Leah finds out she has an inheritance of property and money, plus the joy of new family. The immediate unexpected attraction between Dolph and Leah, creates so much turmoil for both. His is based on guilt, hers is based on love. Torn between her love for the children and their father, she painfully leaves them for London under stipulations of the her inheritance. Dolph comes to realize what he feels for Leah is love. If only he's not too late to bring her back to his family. Rambunctious children keep the story from being too depressing. Interesting to note was some awareness of postpartum depression during the Regency period. The first book in the series just wets the appetite for the next two.
January 6, 2022
Nice Winter Read
While it is not Christmasy you still get winter vibes from this book, which I enjoyed. I also enjoy a nice employer falls for employee story. I ALSO like that the kids were in cooperated in the story.
I kind of want a George and Phillips novella or something….
While it is not Christmasy you still get winter vibes from this book, which I enjoyed. I also enjoy a nice employer falls for employee story. I ALSO like that the kids were in cooperated in the story.
I kind of want a George and Phillips novella or something….
February 9, 2021
4.5 stars as reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-1rB
Orphaned Leah Thame has had to earn her own living for the last several years, and she is currently very happy with her position of governess for the Earl of Dolphinstone’s three children. Her employment started off strangely, as the earl hired her immediately after the death of his wife, then took off on a political assignment to Vienna. He has been gone for well over a year, and Leah has formed a strong and loving bond with her charges. Just as she learns that the earl is due to return home, she receives a mysterious summons to visit a solicitor. Much to Leah’s shock, she is informed that the man she believed to be her father is not her biological parent. Two other young ladies are at the same meeting, and she discover she has two half sisters, and they all have the same (now deceased) man, Lord Tregowan, as their father. Even more amazing is that the three ladies have been named as beneficiaries of Lady Tregowan’s substantial wealth and properties, with certain conditions. The ladies must move to the London townhouse within a short amount of time, enter society, and find husbands. Leah is torn. On one hand, she loves her job and the children, and hates the thought of creating more turmoil in their young lives. Yet, how can she refuse a fortune and property when it means security for her?
Piers Duval, Lord Dolphinstone, or Dolph, as his friends call him, is finally returning home after the completion of his diplomatic mission, and other delays. He is riddled with guilt at abandoning his children so soon after the death of their mother, but his even worse guilt over the circumstances of her death drove him away. Dolph and Rebecca had a marriage of convenience, not a love match, but they seemed to get along well. Rebecca’s shocking and unexpected demise caused Dolph to believe that his distant manner and his absorption in his political career and estate matters are what drove Rebecca to her end. Now he has returned, wanting to get close to his children, but not knowing quite how. His two sons treat him courteously, but warily, and his toddler daughter turns away from him because she doesn’t remember him.
Dolph quickly observes that his children have come to love Leah, and that she has done an outstanding job with their care and education. The skills that he has honed as a negotiator also tell him that his governess has something on her mind that is troubling her. Though Leah isn’t ready to confess the details of her inheritance, she does reveal that she has a personal legal matter which she has to consider. Leah senses Dolph’s awkwardness with his children, and manages to subtly arrange that they spend more time together. Gradually her plan works, and slowly, the family is becoming reacquainted. Leah becomes more anxious as the deadline is approaching for her to move to London. One thing she hadn’t counted on was feeling the intense attraction she does for her employer, or his for her. Though Dolph feels he could never make a woman happy and will never marry again, he can’t deny how badly he wants Leah. When she finally makes her decision to leave, he offers a businesslike marriage proposal, which she refuses, as she wants to marry for love. Leah decides to pack up her broken heart and move on to her new life, perhaps to find a man who can genuinely care for her.
THE RAGS-TO-RICHES GOVERNESS held me captive from beginning to end. I love the theme of this new series with three strangers discovering they are sisters and heiresses. The glimpses of Aurelia and Beatrice have me eagerly awaiting their stories. Though Leah could have easily taken the comfortable route and instantly become a mother to the children she loves, and have the man she loves as a husband, she valued herself more highly than that, and held fast to her convictions. For me, it’s rare than I admire a heroine so much, but I was rooting for Leah all the way. Having said that, I do understand Dolph’s situation. He was simply carrying out his duties as his parents did before him, with a convenient marriage, and children at the fringes of his life. It took a tragedy to shake him up, and his reaction of leaving his children was not a good one. Still, he came back determined to be a better man. It also took him by surprise to realize he could genuinely feel love, and seeing the transformation in him was worth several happy sighs. THE RAGS-TO-RICHES GOVERNESS is a beautifully written and romantic read, full of heart and plenty of emotion.
Orphaned Leah Thame has had to earn her own living for the last several years, and she is currently very happy with her position of governess for the Earl of Dolphinstone’s three children. Her employment started off strangely, as the earl hired her immediately after the death of his wife, then took off on a political assignment to Vienna. He has been gone for well over a year, and Leah has formed a strong and loving bond with her charges. Just as she learns that the earl is due to return home, she receives a mysterious summons to visit a solicitor. Much to Leah’s shock, she is informed that the man she believed to be her father is not her biological parent. Two other young ladies are at the same meeting, and she discover she has two half sisters, and they all have the same (now deceased) man, Lord Tregowan, as their father. Even more amazing is that the three ladies have been named as beneficiaries of Lady Tregowan’s substantial wealth and properties, with certain conditions. The ladies must move to the London townhouse within a short amount of time, enter society, and find husbands. Leah is torn. On one hand, she loves her job and the children, and hates the thought of creating more turmoil in their young lives. Yet, how can she refuse a fortune and property when it means security for her?
Piers Duval, Lord Dolphinstone, or Dolph, as his friends call him, is finally returning home after the completion of his diplomatic mission, and other delays. He is riddled with guilt at abandoning his children so soon after the death of their mother, but his even worse guilt over the circumstances of her death drove him away. Dolph and Rebecca had a marriage of convenience, not a love match, but they seemed to get along well. Rebecca’s shocking and unexpected demise caused Dolph to believe that his distant manner and his absorption in his political career and estate matters are what drove Rebecca to her end. Now he has returned, wanting to get close to his children, but not knowing quite how. His two sons treat him courteously, but warily, and his toddler daughter turns away from him because she doesn’t remember him.
Dolph quickly observes that his children have come to love Leah, and that she has done an outstanding job with their care and education. The skills that he has honed as a negotiator also tell him that his governess has something on her mind that is troubling her. Though Leah isn’t ready to confess the details of her inheritance, she does reveal that she has a personal legal matter which she has to consider. Leah senses Dolph’s awkwardness with his children, and manages to subtly arrange that they spend more time together. Gradually her plan works, and slowly, the family is becoming reacquainted. Leah becomes more anxious as the deadline is approaching for her to move to London. One thing she hadn’t counted on was feeling the intense attraction she does for her employer, or his for her. Though Dolph feels he could never make a woman happy and will never marry again, he can’t deny how badly he wants Leah. When she finally makes her decision to leave, he offers a businesslike marriage proposal, which she refuses, as she wants to marry for love. Leah decides to pack up her broken heart and move on to her new life, perhaps to find a man who can genuinely care for her.
THE RAGS-TO-RICHES GOVERNESS held me captive from beginning to end. I love the theme of this new series with three strangers discovering they are sisters and heiresses. The glimpses of Aurelia and Beatrice have me eagerly awaiting their stories. Though Leah could have easily taken the comfortable route and instantly become a mother to the children she loves, and have the man she loves as a husband, she valued herself more highly than that, and held fast to her convictions. For me, it’s rare than I admire a heroine so much, but I was rooting for Leah all the way. Having said that, I do understand Dolph’s situation. He was simply carrying out his duties as his parents did before him, with a convenient marriage, and children at the fringes of his life. It took a tragedy to shake him up, and his reaction of leaving his children was not a good one. Still, he came back determined to be a better man. It also took him by surprise to realize he could genuinely feel love, and seeing the transformation in him was worth several happy sighs. THE RAGS-TO-RICHES GOVERNESS is a beautifully written and romantic read, full of heart and plenty of emotion.
February 20, 2021
A sweeping and seductive historical romance rich in period detail, emotional intensity and heartfelt drama, The Rags-to-Riches Governess is a beautifully written tale from Janice Preston’s very gifted pen.
Leah Thame is absolutely flabbergasted when she is summoned to a solicitor’s office and is told that she has inherited a fortune! Being an heiress was never something she had ever even contemplated, let alone thought would actually happen, however, Leah’s sudden turn in fortune comes with a caveat which might just keep her from even coming within touching distance of her newfound riches: she can only lay claim to her inheritance, if she finds herself a husband and as a governess, her chances of getting married are very slim, but could her employer, the mysterious Earl of Dolphinstone, be able to help her out of this particular predicament?
Dolphinstone is a man haunted by past demons and old ghosts. The turmoil that weighs heavily upon his shoulders had compelled him to build up walls around himself and his heart which preclude from forming a close and intimate bond with those closest to him – even his own children. Unable to bear the tormenting anguish of pain and misery that have marked his life in the last few years, the enigmatic aristocrat keeps everybody at arm’s length, but when circumstance demands that he return home, he is surprised when he finds his children happy and content – and it’s all thanks to their new governess, Miss Leah Thame, who has just tendered her resignation!
Dolphinstone cannot afford to lose Miss Thame. Not only has she brought so much happiness to his children, but the more time he spends in her company, the more he finds himself drawn to her. When he finds out the reason behind her resignation, he comes up with the ideal solution: a marriage in name only that would be beneficial to both parties. Leah refuses to even dream about entering into a marriage of convenience with Dolphinstone – especially as with each passing day, she finds herself attracted to him and is in danger of falling madly in love with him.
Can she melt the ice around Dolphinestone’s heart and prove to him that happiness can be within both of their reach – but only if they are both willing to let down their guard and take a chance on love.
Janice Preston’s The Rags-to-Riches Governess is a deftly woven historical romance that tells the heartfelt, poignant and spellbinding tale of two lost souls who are brought together by fate and united by a love that will bind them forever. The Rags-to-Riches Governess is a tale about healing, loss and hope written with plenty of sensitivity and compassion. Both Leah and Dolphinstone are two mature, compelling and beautifully drawn characters who are brought to life so brilliantly that readers will experience every single emotion they go through.
Janice Preston is an extraordinary talent who pens evocative, enthralling and immensely enjoyable historical romances and in The Rags-to-Riches Governess she has once again written an exquisite Regency tale that will capture readers’ hearts and have them eagerly awaiting her next novel.
Leah Thame is absolutely flabbergasted when she is summoned to a solicitor’s office and is told that she has inherited a fortune! Being an heiress was never something she had ever even contemplated, let alone thought would actually happen, however, Leah’s sudden turn in fortune comes with a caveat which might just keep her from even coming within touching distance of her newfound riches: she can only lay claim to her inheritance, if she finds herself a husband and as a governess, her chances of getting married are very slim, but could her employer, the mysterious Earl of Dolphinstone, be able to help her out of this particular predicament?
Dolphinstone is a man haunted by past demons and old ghosts. The turmoil that weighs heavily upon his shoulders had compelled him to build up walls around himself and his heart which preclude from forming a close and intimate bond with those closest to him – even his own children. Unable to bear the tormenting anguish of pain and misery that have marked his life in the last few years, the enigmatic aristocrat keeps everybody at arm’s length, but when circumstance demands that he return home, he is surprised when he finds his children happy and content – and it’s all thanks to their new governess, Miss Leah Thame, who has just tendered her resignation!
Dolphinstone cannot afford to lose Miss Thame. Not only has she brought so much happiness to his children, but the more time he spends in her company, the more he finds himself drawn to her. When he finds out the reason behind her resignation, he comes up with the ideal solution: a marriage in name only that would be beneficial to both parties. Leah refuses to even dream about entering into a marriage of convenience with Dolphinstone – especially as with each passing day, she finds herself attracted to him and is in danger of falling madly in love with him.
Can she melt the ice around Dolphinestone’s heart and prove to him that happiness can be within both of their reach – but only if they are both willing to let down their guard and take a chance on love.
Janice Preston’s The Rags-to-Riches Governess is a deftly woven historical romance that tells the heartfelt, poignant and spellbinding tale of two lost souls who are brought together by fate and united by a love that will bind them forever. The Rags-to-Riches Governess is a tale about healing, loss and hope written with plenty of sensitivity and compassion. Both Leah and Dolphinstone are two mature, compelling and beautifully drawn characters who are brought to life so brilliantly that readers will experience every single emotion they go through.
Janice Preston is an extraordinary talent who pens evocative, enthralling and immensely enjoyable historical romances and in The Rags-to-Riches Governess she has once again written an exquisite Regency tale that will capture readers’ hearts and have them eagerly awaiting her next novel.
December 30, 2022
E' sempre un piacere trovare romanzi storici a buon mercato. Amazon ci dà questa opportunità e noi Lady non la sprechiamo. Stavolta abbiamo trovato questo libro con protagonista un'istitutrice che si rivelerà essere un'ereditiera. Non è una storia complessa, non accade niente di particolarmente interessante ma è comunque stata una lettura piacevole e tenera.
La vita di Leah Thame prende un'improvvisa piega quando scopre di essere diventata un'ereditiera e, per giunta, di avere due sorelle. Ma se vuole accettare questa eredità dovrà rinunciare al suo lavoro di istitutrice e sposarsi entro un anno. Cosa che non le va molto a genio visto che ama il suo lavoro e i bambini a cui bada ricambiano il suo sentimento d'affetto. Questa faccenda non piace nemmeno al padre di questi bambini, nonchè suo datore di lavoro, Lord Dolphinstone. Le piccole creature hanno perso prematuramente la madre e perdere anche la loro amata istitutrice sarebbe un duro colpo per loro. Perciò ecco che l'uomo propone alla nostra protagonista di sposarlo. Leah ama il Lord ma non vuole un semplice matrimonio di convenienza che lui le offre, vorrebbe piuttosto un matrimonio d'amore. Ma tra scambi di sguardi, incomprensioni e stimolanti dialoghi, vedremo come questo accordo può trasformarsi in un ingresso per la felicità.
Leah ha un carattere deciso ma anche molto dolce e premuroso. Non è una giovane donna che si fa mettere i piedi in testa e sa come gestire il carattere burbero del suo datore di lavoro. I bambini la adorano e tra loro si crea un legame molto tenero che fa sciogliere il cuore.
Lord Dolphinstone è un uomo in apparenza freddo e distaccato ma che in realtà ha un cuore generoso e gentile. Per vario tempo viene tormentato dai rimorsi e dalla perdita della moglie ma la presenza di Leah lo porta ad avere di nuovo un buon rapporto con i figli e a creare un bellissimo dipinto famigliare.
E' la prima volta che leggo un romanzo della Preston e posso dire che è stata una buona esperienza. Il suo stile è semplice, che non si perde nei troppi dettagli, ma si vede che conosce bene l'epoca in cui ha voluto ambientare la sua storia. Sembra una sciocchezza ma non tutte le autrici di storici sanno creare un contesto storico che risulti credibile.
Tirando le somme, questa storia è stata ben scritta ma troppo "leggera". Non accade niente di stimolante, niente dramma o qualche intrigo, solo i pensieri di una donna a cui viene sconvolta l'esistenza e una famiglia che ha bisogno di essere aggiustata. Questo romanzo è adatto per chi vuole qualcosa di molto semplice, una boccata di aria fresca dopo tanto penare per letture più complicate.
La vita di Leah Thame prende un'improvvisa piega quando scopre di essere diventata un'ereditiera e, per giunta, di avere due sorelle. Ma se vuole accettare questa eredità dovrà rinunciare al suo lavoro di istitutrice e sposarsi entro un anno. Cosa che non le va molto a genio visto che ama il suo lavoro e i bambini a cui bada ricambiano il suo sentimento d'affetto. Questa faccenda non piace nemmeno al padre di questi bambini, nonchè suo datore di lavoro, Lord Dolphinstone. Le piccole creature hanno perso prematuramente la madre e perdere anche la loro amata istitutrice sarebbe un duro colpo per loro. Perciò ecco che l'uomo propone alla nostra protagonista di sposarlo. Leah ama il Lord ma non vuole un semplice matrimonio di convenienza che lui le offre, vorrebbe piuttosto un matrimonio d'amore. Ma tra scambi di sguardi, incomprensioni e stimolanti dialoghi, vedremo come questo accordo può trasformarsi in un ingresso per la felicità.
Leah ha un carattere deciso ma anche molto dolce e premuroso. Non è una giovane donna che si fa mettere i piedi in testa e sa come gestire il carattere burbero del suo datore di lavoro. I bambini la adorano e tra loro si crea un legame molto tenero che fa sciogliere il cuore.
Lord Dolphinstone è un uomo in apparenza freddo e distaccato ma che in realtà ha un cuore generoso e gentile. Per vario tempo viene tormentato dai rimorsi e dalla perdita della moglie ma la presenza di Leah lo porta ad avere di nuovo un buon rapporto con i figli e a creare un bellissimo dipinto famigliare.
E' la prima volta che leggo un romanzo della Preston e posso dire che è stata una buona esperienza. Il suo stile è semplice, che non si perde nei troppi dettagli, ma si vede che conosce bene l'epoca in cui ha voluto ambientare la sua storia. Sembra una sciocchezza ma non tutte le autrici di storici sanno creare un contesto storico che risulti credibile.
Tirando le somme, questa storia è stata ben scritta ma troppo "leggera". Non accade niente di stimolante, niente dramma o qualche intrigo, solo i pensieri di una donna a cui viene sconvolta l'esistenza e una famiglia che ha bisogno di essere aggiustata. Questo romanzo è adatto per chi vuole qualcosa di molto semplice, una boccata di aria fresca dopo tanto penare per letture più complicate.
August 10, 2021
The Rags to Riches Governess was published in January this year and has been sat patiently waiting for me to read. I am thrilled to now be able to share my review along with Book Two in the trilogy. Janice Preston is one of my ‘go to’ historical romance authors as she understands the era she is writing about, her characters are written with warmth and charm and she writes stories with romance that slowly bubbles away in the background till it reaches fever point.
This is book one in a new trilogy titled Lady Tregowan’s Will based on three young women from differing backgrounds, that are strangers who are brought together by an inheritance from a lady who is trying to make amends for the past. Each story is written in a way that can be read as a standalone but now that I’ve read book one I am keen to continue with the mystery of the fortune that’s bestowed on the young ladies.
Leah Thame is enjoying her role as governess to Lord Dolphinstone’s 3 young children. Since her appointment to the position she hasn’t seen the Lord as he fled oversees with work following the untimely death of his wife, leaving Leah to care for his two sons and young daughter’s educational and personal wellbeing.
When Leah is summoned to a solicitors’ office she is shocked to discover she is 1/3 of a beneficiary of an estate left by a Lady Tregowan. The inheritance has many conditions attached and Leah is left confused and concerned for her future. She also now has the sudden return arrival of Lord Dolphinstone to contend with leaving her with more anxious thoughts. Leah has fallen in love with the children and as she gets to know their father a frisson of chemistry is felt. However, Leah has been left heartbroken in the past and is afraid to trust another man especially one that is still mourning his late wife.
Lord Dolphinstone is keen to rebuild a relationship with his children, he’s annoyed with himself for being away so long and realises he needs to tread carefully with them. He didn’t expect to meet someone that would make his heart beat again but Leah Thame is proving to be hard to resist. However, the Lord feels he has to punish himself for his past role as a husband and feels he must deny his own feelings.
Janice Preston has created a lovely, slow building romance with a hint of mystery surrounding the inheritance and it’s many conditions. Heart-warming, romantic and a gorgeous page turner of a story.
This is book one in a new trilogy titled Lady Tregowan’s Will based on three young women from differing backgrounds, that are strangers who are brought together by an inheritance from a lady who is trying to make amends for the past. Each story is written in a way that can be read as a standalone but now that I’ve read book one I am keen to continue with the mystery of the fortune that’s bestowed on the young ladies.
Leah Thame is enjoying her role as governess to Lord Dolphinstone’s 3 young children. Since her appointment to the position she hasn’t seen the Lord as he fled oversees with work following the untimely death of his wife, leaving Leah to care for his two sons and young daughter’s educational and personal wellbeing.
When Leah is summoned to a solicitors’ office she is shocked to discover she is 1/3 of a beneficiary of an estate left by a Lady Tregowan. The inheritance has many conditions attached and Leah is left confused and concerned for her future. She also now has the sudden return arrival of Lord Dolphinstone to contend with leaving her with more anxious thoughts. Leah has fallen in love with the children and as she gets to know their father a frisson of chemistry is felt. However, Leah has been left heartbroken in the past and is afraid to trust another man especially one that is still mourning his late wife.
Lord Dolphinstone is keen to rebuild a relationship with his children, he’s annoyed with himself for being away so long and realises he needs to tread carefully with them. He didn’t expect to meet someone that would make his heart beat again but Leah Thame is proving to be hard to resist. However, the Lord feels he has to punish himself for his past role as a husband and feels he must deny his own feelings.
Janice Preston has created a lovely, slow building romance with a hint of mystery surrounding the inheritance and it’s many conditions. Heart-warming, romantic and a gorgeous page turner of a story.
March 25, 2022
4.5 stelline
Ho un vero e proprio debole per gli storici che hanno come protagonista un’istitutrice, mi piacciono sempre tanto e questo non è certo da meno.
Janice Preston ha uno stile che mi piace molto; ho trovato la sua penna molto scorrevole, attenta alle regole sociali imposte dal ton, dinamica e riflessiva quanto basta. Essendo il primo romanzo di una serie che vede come protagoniste tre donne che, all’improvviso, scoprono di essere sorelle e di essere diventate ereditiere, l’autrice ha avuto la grande abilità di sapere tratteggiare molto bene tutti i personaggi – anche i bambini – e non solo i due protagonisti. E lo ha fatto senza trascurare di mettere in risalto la personalità di Miss Leah e Lord Dolphinstone.
Il ritmo narrativo è buono, il punto di forza nella narrazione della Preston l’ho percepita in quell’aria di quotidianità e di familiarità che si respira per tutto il libro ed è uno dei motivi per cui i romanzi che hanno come protagonista un’istitutrice mi piacciono così tanto.
n questo genere di romanzi, a volte, la narrazione viene un po’ frenata dagli ampi spazi dedicati alle riflessioni dei due protagonisti a discapito dei dialoghi. Penso che la Preston, invece, sia riuscita a trovare il giusto equilibrio senza dilungarsi troppo in certi dettagli che potevano rallentare la lettura, ma facendo interagire molto spesso i due personaggi principali e rendendoli abbastanza dinamici.
La storia d’amore tra Dolph e Leah procede per gradi e ho apprezzato molto il loro modo di interagire, i dialoghi danno un buon ritmo alla loro interazione.
La trama è abbastanza lineare, non accadono molte cose, ma è proprio l’aria di familiarità a rendere piacevole la lettura, piccoli momenti familiari che donano molta dolcezza e tenerezza.
Ho letto il romanzo in pochissimo tempo e dopo aver imparato a “conoscere” anche le altre due sorelle sono molto curiosa di leggere le loro storie, soprattutto quella di Beatrice.
Recensione completa: https://virtualkaty.blogspot.com/2022...
Ho un vero e proprio debole per gli storici che hanno come protagonista un’istitutrice, mi piacciono sempre tanto e questo non è certo da meno.
Janice Preston ha uno stile che mi piace molto; ho trovato la sua penna molto scorrevole, attenta alle regole sociali imposte dal ton, dinamica e riflessiva quanto basta. Essendo il primo romanzo di una serie che vede come protagoniste tre donne che, all’improvviso, scoprono di essere sorelle e di essere diventate ereditiere, l’autrice ha avuto la grande abilità di sapere tratteggiare molto bene tutti i personaggi – anche i bambini – e non solo i due protagonisti. E lo ha fatto senza trascurare di mettere in risalto la personalità di Miss Leah e Lord Dolphinstone.
Il ritmo narrativo è buono, il punto di forza nella narrazione della Preston l’ho percepita in quell’aria di quotidianità e di familiarità che si respira per tutto il libro ed è uno dei motivi per cui i romanzi che hanno come protagonista un’istitutrice mi piacciono così tanto.
n questo genere di romanzi, a volte, la narrazione viene un po’ frenata dagli ampi spazi dedicati alle riflessioni dei due protagonisti a discapito dei dialoghi. Penso che la Preston, invece, sia riuscita a trovare il giusto equilibrio senza dilungarsi troppo in certi dettagli che potevano rallentare la lettura, ma facendo interagire molto spesso i due personaggi principali e rendendoli abbastanza dinamici.
La storia d’amore tra Dolph e Leah procede per gradi e ho apprezzato molto il loro modo di interagire, i dialoghi danno un buon ritmo alla loro interazione.
La trama è abbastanza lineare, non accadono molte cose, ma è proprio l’aria di familiarità a rendere piacevole la lettura, piccoli momenti familiari che donano molta dolcezza e tenerezza.
Ho letto il romanzo in pochissimo tempo e dopo aver imparato a “conoscere” anche le altre due sorelle sono molto curiosa di leggere le loro storie, soprattutto quella di Beatrice.
Recensione completa: https://virtualkaty.blogspot.com/2022...
January 9, 2021
Rags to Riches Governess is the first book in Janice Preston's new trilogy, "Lady Tregowan's Will", and it is an absolute delight. From the first, I empathised with Leah, torn between her love for the children in her charge and the need to do what is best for her own future. She's honourable and virtuous, but not sickeningly so, intelligent and with a sense of fun, a heroine in the style of Lizzie Bennett.
Lord Dolpinstone, Dolph to his friends, is a wonderful man, upright and proper, the sort of man we'd all love to meet. He isn't perfect; he's made mistakes, and is wracked with guilt over them. Like many men I have met, he's not good with the emotional stuff, as he shows when he attempts to propose.
The two are well matched, and their story is compelling from beginning to satisfying end. I had to leave it half way through to get on with life, and found myself longing to find out what happened next.
The peripheral characters were great, too. I liked the irrepressible Lord Hinckley very much, and Aurelia and Beatrice, whose stories I look forward to.
My one complaint is that, after many mentions of the current Lord Tregowan, I expected to encounter him, and didn't. I am hopeful he will make an appearance in a future book.
All in all, this was emotionally captivating, and exactly what I needed on long, cold winter evenings.
Lord Dolpinstone, Dolph to his friends, is a wonderful man, upright and proper, the sort of man we'd all love to meet. He isn't perfect; he's made mistakes, and is wracked with guilt over them. Like many men I have met, he's not good with the emotional stuff, as he shows when he attempts to propose.
The two are well matched, and their story is compelling from beginning to satisfying end. I had to leave it half way through to get on with life, and found myself longing to find out what happened next.
The peripheral characters were great, too. I liked the irrepressible Lord Hinckley very much, and Aurelia and Beatrice, whose stories I look forward to.
My one complaint is that, after many mentions of the current Lord Tregowan, I expected to encounter him, and didn't. I am hopeful he will make an appearance in a future book.
All in all, this was emotionally captivating, and exactly what I needed on long, cold winter evenings.
January 27, 2021
The first book in Janice Preston’s ‘Lady Tregowan’s Will’ series finds governess Leah Thame mysteriously summonsed to a meeting with a solicitor in Bristol where she learns she and two other young ladies are the beneficiaries of the will and that the three are in fact half-sisters, all fathered by the late Lord Tregowan. For only child Leah, the news comes as a shock as she deals with the revelation and the caveats of the inheritance which include moving to London and having to get married within the next twelve months in order to claim her share.
From the opening page there is a sense of intrigue from the solicitors revelation, and the concept provides a good basis for the story as Leah returns to her job at Dolphin Court only to discover that the long-absent Lord Dolphinstone has returned home whilst she was in Bristol which only adds to her dilemma. Leah herself is an interesting character, clearly good at her job and loved by Stevie, Nicky and Tilly essentially as a mother figure in the absence of their father. Given that Leah has only met Dolph briefly when he hired her before leaving for his Government job in Europe, his reappearance adds drama to the plot as the two have to find the basis of a working relationship as Dolph attempts to rebuild his bond with the children he left behind following the tragic death of his wife.
In Dolph, the author once again shows her talents for creating leading men with tragic pasts. Blaming himself for Rebecca’s death, Dolph tries to ignore his growing attraction to Leah, fearing that he will ultimately make her unhappy. The addition of Stevie and Nicky is an inspired move as the children essentially drive the plot and assist with providing Dolph reasons to consider the importance of having Leah in his life, and as the book progresses, it is a nice for the reader to watch the development of the character as he begins to imagine the possibility of letting himself be happy if he allows himself to confront his growing feelings for Leah.
The well paced plot suits Leah and Dolph’s circumstances, and both characters are well created, providing an emotional depth to the story, and, as a reader, you become invested in Leah’s dilemma regarding the inheritance and her increasing reluctance to leave Dolph and the children behind. Indeed, by the time Dolph makes a somewhat ill-judged attempt to persuade Leah to stay, you really do hope that the issues could be overcome and that Dolph especially can look beyond the tragedy of his first marriage. The scenes where Dolph finally reveals what happened are well written and not sensationalised for dramatic effect, but rather told in a sensitive way.
Aside from Leah and Dolph’s budding romance, there is a nice sub-plot featuring Dolph’s friend George and local vicar’s daughter, Philippa which is almost like a mini romance story in itself for, despite their limited appearance, the two make a strong impression on the reader.
As Leah finally moves her life to London and begins a tentative bond with Aurelia, the plot gathers pace as we await Dolph’s reaction, and there is plenty of emotion within the pages as the two are forced to confront their feelings for each other. The concluding chapters are both emotional and touching, and the end should definitely leave the reader smiling.
As this is the first book in a series of three, there are plenty of hints about the upcoming stories involving Aurelia and Beatrice which will provide intrigue for the reader in advance of their release. Both clearly have stories to tell, and it will be interesting to see what transpires as we find out more about them.
One of my favourite things about Janice Preston’s writing is her ability to create connected characters who appear across her books, and here she has once again sown the seeds of a new family of characters for her readers to get to know and love. This book was a delight to read from start to finish, from it’s unique opening to it’s emotional conclusion it keeps the reader engaged and will leave you looking forward to book two. It is yet another excellent romance from the author and will leave a lasting impression on the reader.
From the opening page there is a sense of intrigue from the solicitors revelation, and the concept provides a good basis for the story as Leah returns to her job at Dolphin Court only to discover that the long-absent Lord Dolphinstone has returned home whilst she was in Bristol which only adds to her dilemma. Leah herself is an interesting character, clearly good at her job and loved by Stevie, Nicky and Tilly essentially as a mother figure in the absence of their father. Given that Leah has only met Dolph briefly when he hired her before leaving for his Government job in Europe, his reappearance adds drama to the plot as the two have to find the basis of a working relationship as Dolph attempts to rebuild his bond with the children he left behind following the tragic death of his wife.
In Dolph, the author once again shows her talents for creating leading men with tragic pasts. Blaming himself for Rebecca’s death, Dolph tries to ignore his growing attraction to Leah, fearing that he will ultimately make her unhappy. The addition of Stevie and Nicky is an inspired move as the children essentially drive the plot and assist with providing Dolph reasons to consider the importance of having Leah in his life, and as the book progresses, it is a nice for the reader to watch the development of the character as he begins to imagine the possibility of letting himself be happy if he allows himself to confront his growing feelings for Leah.
The well paced plot suits Leah and Dolph’s circumstances, and both characters are well created, providing an emotional depth to the story, and, as a reader, you become invested in Leah’s dilemma regarding the inheritance and her increasing reluctance to leave Dolph and the children behind. Indeed, by the time Dolph makes a somewhat ill-judged attempt to persuade Leah to stay, you really do hope that the issues could be overcome and that Dolph especially can look beyond the tragedy of his first marriage. The scenes where Dolph finally reveals what happened are well written and not sensationalised for dramatic effect, but rather told in a sensitive way.
Aside from Leah and Dolph’s budding romance, there is a nice sub-plot featuring Dolph’s friend George and local vicar’s daughter, Philippa which is almost like a mini romance story in itself for, despite their limited appearance, the two make a strong impression on the reader.
As Leah finally moves her life to London and begins a tentative bond with Aurelia, the plot gathers pace as we await Dolph’s reaction, and there is plenty of emotion within the pages as the two are forced to confront their feelings for each other. The concluding chapters are both emotional and touching, and the end should definitely leave the reader smiling.
As this is the first book in a series of three, there are plenty of hints about the upcoming stories involving Aurelia and Beatrice which will provide intrigue for the reader in advance of their release. Both clearly have stories to tell, and it will be interesting to see what transpires as we find out more about them.
One of my favourite things about Janice Preston’s writing is her ability to create connected characters who appear across her books, and here she has once again sown the seeds of a new family of characters for her readers to get to know and love. This book was a delight to read from start to finish, from it’s unique opening to it’s emotional conclusion it keeps the reader engaged and will leave you looking forward to book two. It is yet another excellent romance from the author and will leave a lasting impression on the reader.
January 9, 2021
Janice Preston’s writing is polished and rather than just reading a story, you are transported back to the Regency era. As a shy person, I can so easily put myself in the position of the heroine of this story, Leah. I could see myself being unmarried in my early twenties and having to earn a living as a governess! The author is also good at depicting attraction between the hero and heroine, and the sex scene - ooo la, la! Lord Dolphinstone is attractive and fanciable, but his past makes the story more interesting and believable. I also love the dog, Wolf and the children. Can’t wait for the next book in this series!
April 12, 2022
Rags-to-riches Governess
Times are a changing. Bloodline has been so important for the aristocrats that now someone is looking beyond a label to see the inner person. Lust before love can have regrets.
Times are a changing. Bloodline has been so important for the aristocrats that now someone is looking beyond a label to see the inner person. Lust before love can have regrets.
April 24, 2022
4.5 stars
I read these books in the wrong order this first book last the last book first and the second one in the middle!
Good story and interesting series.
My only caveat is that on page 162 I think there's a mistake. I think it should say Dolph's wife accident not suicide.
I read these books in the wrong order this first book last the last book first and the second one in the middle!
Good story and interesting series.
My only caveat is that on page 162 I think there's a mistake. I think it should say Dolph's wife accident not suicide.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2022
This author writes 3 chapters of amazing work in all of her books and then sinks the reader into the most basic, dull, and hideously boring novels. I can tell that she was bored just writing this one.
Currently reading
February 9, 2021Categories
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance
Miniseries
Lady Tregowan's Will (Book #1)
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance
Miniseries
Lady Tregowan's Will (Book #1)
February 19, 2021
What a wonderful storyline and a perfect start to this new series by author Janice Preston! Loved the story and can't wait for Aurelia and Beatrice's stories!
Detailed review to come
Detailed review to come
February 28, 2022
3.5* I really enjoyed this novel. A good start to a 3 book series.
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