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The Spirited Mrs. Pringle
London, 1888.
Upon the death of her husband, self-involved social climber Cora Pringle assumes her recent dalliance with a wealthy gentleman will be her second chance at a happily ever after. That is until her paramour turns out to be a penniless imposter. Despite his betrayal, Cora can't quite let go of the tug the handsome playwright has on her heart.
Desperate for an income, Cora becomes a séance-performing spiritualist and gets a taste for celebrity—and it's so delicious. So what if she can't actually communicate with the dead? Her eager patrons don't need to know that.
Amelia Baxter, an ambitious journalist and suffragist, is discouraged when her editor refuses to let her cover the horrific Jack the Ripper murders. Instead, Amelia pours her frustrations into bringing Cora's deceptive and manipulative act to an end, even if it means risking her family's reputation.“Like the most memorable of its vividly drawn characters, The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is clever, lively, and unabashedly entertaining. Perhaps most enjoyable of all is the seemingly endless series of surprises. A string of sometimes astonishing pleasures to the last page.” - Award-winning author Leo McKay Jr.A great read for fans of Deanna Raybourn and Jennifer Ryan!
As a lover of historical fiction novels, The Spirited Mrs. Pringle does not disappoint. Filled with great character and world-building—especially the variety of female characters—lots of surprising moments, and just overall entertainment, I really enjoyed reading this book.
Booking With Janelle
How does it all end? Well! You will have to read this vastly entertaining and just slightly dark read to find out. I read the book basically in one day.
Books, Cooks, Looks
Hamilton delivers a captivating historical fiction… The author’s seamless narration definitely shines.
Gwendalyn Books
It's a great read for historical fiction fans with characters to love and loathe, and a fascinating look at spiritualists, magicians, and the like of the times.
Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
What a wonderful book—original, charming, and well-researched.
Coffee and Ink
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is a fast-paced and fun read that will have you chuckling at the antics of Cora and her nemesis, Amelia.
A Darn Good Read
I love, love loved this book!!! …There is so much to adore about The Spirited Mrs Pringle is not only incredibly fun, it’s intelligent, addictively compelling and exceptionally well written. I mean, seriously, this book is utterly captivating!
Chicks, Rogues and Scandals
Upon the death of her husband, self-involved social climber Cora Pringle assumes her recent dalliance with a wealthy gentleman will be her second chance at a happily ever after. That is until her paramour turns out to be a penniless imposter. Despite his betrayal, Cora can't quite let go of the tug the handsome playwright has on her heart.
Desperate for an income, Cora becomes a séance-performing spiritualist and gets a taste for celebrity—and it's so delicious. So what if she can't actually communicate with the dead? Her eager patrons don't need to know that.
Amelia Baxter, an ambitious journalist and suffragist, is discouraged when her editor refuses to let her cover the horrific Jack the Ripper murders. Instead, Amelia pours her frustrations into bringing Cora's deceptive and manipulative act to an end, even if it means risking her family's reputation.“Like the most memorable of its vividly drawn characters, The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is clever, lively, and unabashedly entertaining. Perhaps most enjoyable of all is the seemingly endless series of surprises. A string of sometimes astonishing pleasures to the last page.” - Award-winning author Leo McKay Jr.A great read for fans of Deanna Raybourn and Jennifer Ryan!
As a lover of historical fiction novels, The Spirited Mrs. Pringle does not disappoint. Filled with great character and world-building—especially the variety of female characters—lots of surprising moments, and just overall entertainment, I really enjoyed reading this book.
Booking With Janelle
How does it all end? Well! You will have to read this vastly entertaining and just slightly dark read to find out. I read the book basically in one day.
Books, Cooks, Looks
Hamilton delivers a captivating historical fiction… The author’s seamless narration definitely shines.
Gwendalyn Books
It's a great read for historical fiction fans with characters to love and loathe, and a fascinating look at spiritualists, magicians, and the like of the times.
Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
What a wonderful book—original, charming, and well-researched.
Coffee and Ink
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is a fast-paced and fun read that will have you chuckling at the antics of Cora and her nemesis, Amelia.
A Darn Good Read
I love, love loved this book!!! …There is so much to adore about The Spirited Mrs Pringle is not only incredibly fun, it’s intelligent, addictively compelling and exceptionally well written. I mean, seriously, this book is utterly captivating!
Chicks, Rogues and Scandals
325 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2021
14 people are currently reading
1002 people want to read
About the author
Jillianne Hamilton
11 books88 followersJillianne Hamilton writes entertaining historical fiction and historical romance novels with happy endings. Her stories feature feisty female protagonists and plenty of sass and wit, using the past as an exciting backdrop. Her debut novel was shortlisted for the 2016 PEI Book Award.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
December 28, 2021
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is a witty, fun, and engaging look at a woman thrown into hard times in Victorian London, the way she rises to fame, and the lessons she learns along the way. It is also the story of a reporter, Amelia Baxter, who is hot on Cora Pringle’s heels, determined to rip away the facade, no matter what the cost. The characters jump off the page, and the reader is caught up immediately in the wit, sarcasm, and romance. The cunning and ambitious Cora Pringle is a manipulative delight of a character who is surrounded by a superb cast. Fans of Victorian romance with a clever twist will not want to pass this up.
I received a free copy of this book via HFVBT Blog Tours. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book via HFVBT Blog Tours. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
September 10, 2021
Oh how I loved, loved, loved The Spirited Mrs. Pringle! Loved it so much that I inhaled it in two sittings...well, it would have been one sitting but you know, life and all.
Author Jillianne Hamilton has written a wonderfully charming historical that features two women, Cora (Mrs. Pringle) and Amelia. Cora is in a loveless marriage when she meets and falls for another man (Everett), though he turns out to be not what she thought. When her husband passes unexpectedly, she learns just how dire her circumstances are. He's left her with no home and no money. She is without family and her friends can't help, so she has no choice but to reach out to Everett who has offered her a place to stay. Cora needs money so she decides to try her hand at being a spiritualist. She's done this act at parties before but only as a joke.
Amelia is newlywed and has ambition to become a reporter and writer. She soon learns about the famous Mrs. Pringle and decides to check her out. When she sees that Mrs. Pringle can't really talk to the dead she exposes her.
I don't want to give too much away, but trust me it's an extremely fun read. There were twists and turns and a slow-burn romance that will leave you swooning! My word, how I adored Everett! There is also a lot of witty and clever dialogue that I loved.
I will definitely be picking up Jillianne's previous books as I greatly enjoyed this one. If you like Mimi Matthews, Harper St. George, or Diane Biller I strongly recommend you check Jillianne out!
Author Jillianne Hamilton has written a wonderfully charming historical that features two women, Cora (Mrs. Pringle) and Amelia. Cora is in a loveless marriage when she meets and falls for another man (Everett), though he turns out to be not what she thought. When her husband passes unexpectedly, she learns just how dire her circumstances are. He's left her with no home and no money. She is without family and her friends can't help, so she has no choice but to reach out to Everett who has offered her a place to stay. Cora needs money so she decides to try her hand at being a spiritualist. She's done this act at parties before but only as a joke.
Amelia is newlywed and has ambition to become a reporter and writer. She soon learns about the famous Mrs. Pringle and decides to check her out. When she sees that Mrs. Pringle can't really talk to the dead she exposes her.
I don't want to give too much away, but trust me it's an extremely fun read. There were twists and turns and a slow-burn romance that will leave you swooning! My word, how I adored Everett! There is also a lot of witty and clever dialogue that I loved.
I will definitely be picking up Jillianne's previous books as I greatly enjoyed this one. If you like Mimi Matthews, Harper St. George, or Diane Biller I strongly recommend you check Jillianne out!
December 18, 2021
Following Cora Pringle, a down-and-out social climber, and Amelia Baxter, a forward-thinking journalist in 1888, The Spirited Mrs. Pringle tells two stories in one of two very different ladies in the era of Jack the Ripper.
I really enjoyed this book! The prose has a historical feel but is still easy to read without getting too bogged down in the speaking customs of the time. Both lead characters are interesting and engaging enough to want to follow their stories throughout the book. And, even though Cora tends to have some unlikeable qualities, you’ll still find yourself rooting for her because she’s presented in such a realistic way.
It’s also interesting to see how the two stories intertwine between these two very different women. And, of course, I always love to read about the struggles of women in a foregone time since they shaped the opportunities we have today.
All in all, I found the book to be a great read and would highly recommend it if you’re looking for historical fiction and an interesting character-drive story. One reader note: there is a sex scene in the book, though veiled language is used rather than graphic descriptions.
I really enjoyed this book! The prose has a historical feel but is still easy to read without getting too bogged down in the speaking customs of the time. Both lead characters are interesting and engaging enough to want to follow their stories throughout the book. And, even though Cora tends to have some unlikeable qualities, you’ll still find yourself rooting for her because she’s presented in such a realistic way.
It’s also interesting to see how the two stories intertwine between these two very different women. And, of course, I always love to read about the struggles of women in a foregone time since they shaped the opportunities we have today.
All in all, I found the book to be a great read and would highly recommend it if you’re looking for historical fiction and an interesting character-drive story. One reader note: there is a sex scene in the book, though veiled language is used rather than graphic descriptions.
September 16, 2021
I loved the characters and the setting. A quirky relationship between the women of the story. Enjoyed
November 10, 2021
A common issue with fiction is that when they attempt to do the will they/won’t they dance it tends to fall apart if prolonged to long, but Hamilton manages to keep Mrs. Pringle and Mr. Rigby’s relationship right on that line. She also makes you question if they should even though you root for them the whole time. She also manages to interweave a secondary protagonist I also got invested in, and I enjoy when the two stories cross. I do believe Cora Pringle has replaced Molly Miranda as my favourite Hamilton character. Sorry, Molly.
September 15, 2021
I love, love loved this book!!!
Firstly, before I start waffling, look at the cover…go on then what are you waiting for? Have you seen it? Gorgeous, right?
This is one of those books that once you start you can’t stop reading until you have reached the final word – well, that is what I would have done if everyday life hadn’t got in the way. Believe me, if I could have got away with sitting down and just read this from cover to cover without moving an inch I would have – maybe next time I should hibernate and not re-surface until the end?
Cora and Amelia are great leads, both are such different women and yet despite Amelia trying her darndest to prove Cora is a fake they are more alike than they would care to admit; both are women in a man’s world, both women trying to survive and make a name for themselves without relying on men. They are a blast to get to know!
Cora (Mrs Pringle) after the death of her husband she soon realises that he was a bit of a tosser, he has gone and died leaving her without a home and with no money and for a woman in 1888, London this isn’t the best position to be in, with no family or friends for that matter she has only one place to go, the man she fell in love with while married; Everett – who is a genuinely lovely man, he is adorable some of the loveliest scenes pass between them.
To bring in the money she falls back on the unique trick she used at parties, that of a spiritualist and with the help of Everett, they become quite the double act and soon make a name for herself and more importantly soon the money comes rolling in as people want her help to contact the dead. She may be a tad ruthless and manipulative preying on those who go to her for help, but hey I liked her.
But, alas there is a fly in the works in the form of young suffragette Amelia who is also a very ambitious journalist in the making, she is furious that her editor won’t let her near the crime of the century the Ripper case and so she looks for a story which will make her name. It is a match made in heaven, isn’t it? Fraudster and Journalist, now let the craziness and fun begin!
I refuse to say any more, I may have even said far too much already, this book needs to be read to fully appreciate how blindingly good it is. I love the witty banter between the characters, the story is just wonderful, it captures and ignites your imagination with its clever plot and dynamic characters.
There is so much to adore about The Spirited Mrs Pringle is not only incredibly fun, it’s intelligent, addictively compelling and exceptionally well written – I mean, seriously this book is utterly captivating!
I was hooked with this book the moment I laid eyes on it – yes, I know never to judge a book by its cover, but come one when you are faced with a cover that is as strikingly beautiful as this one then why wouldn’t I want to read it? Plus add into the fact that’s it’s Victorian (I do love books set in this era) and with its strong female lead and the hint of romance, plus suffragettes (yes, I was hooked from that alone) I had to read this book and my goodness am I pleased that I did, by Jove this is good!!
The Spirited Mrs Pringle is a little box of surprises – you undo the gold ribbon open the blue box and your eyes glow with amazement at the beautiful, exciting, fun, romantic and highly original gift within. I cannot recommend this enough, essential reading for anyone who loves historical fiction which features sassy and clever women.
Firstly, before I start waffling, look at the cover…go on then what are you waiting for? Have you seen it? Gorgeous, right?
This is one of those books that once you start you can’t stop reading until you have reached the final word – well, that is what I would have done if everyday life hadn’t got in the way. Believe me, if I could have got away with sitting down and just read this from cover to cover without moving an inch I would have – maybe next time I should hibernate and not re-surface until the end?
Cora and Amelia are great leads, both are such different women and yet despite Amelia trying her darndest to prove Cora is a fake they are more alike than they would care to admit; both are women in a man’s world, both women trying to survive and make a name for themselves without relying on men. They are a blast to get to know!
Cora (Mrs Pringle) after the death of her husband she soon realises that he was a bit of a tosser, he has gone and died leaving her without a home and with no money and for a woman in 1888, London this isn’t the best position to be in, with no family or friends for that matter she has only one place to go, the man she fell in love with while married; Everett – who is a genuinely lovely man, he is adorable some of the loveliest scenes pass between them.
To bring in the money she falls back on the unique trick she used at parties, that of a spiritualist and with the help of Everett, they become quite the double act and soon make a name for herself and more importantly soon the money comes rolling in as people want her help to contact the dead. She may be a tad ruthless and manipulative preying on those who go to her for help, but hey I liked her.
But, alas there is a fly in the works in the form of young suffragette Amelia who is also a very ambitious journalist in the making, she is furious that her editor won’t let her near the crime of the century the Ripper case and so she looks for a story which will make her name. It is a match made in heaven, isn’t it? Fraudster and Journalist, now let the craziness and fun begin!
I refuse to say any more, I may have even said far too much already, this book needs to be read to fully appreciate how blindingly good it is. I love the witty banter between the characters, the story is just wonderful, it captures and ignites your imagination with its clever plot and dynamic characters.
There is so much to adore about The Spirited Mrs Pringle is not only incredibly fun, it’s intelligent, addictively compelling and exceptionally well written – I mean, seriously this book is utterly captivating!
I was hooked with this book the moment I laid eyes on it – yes, I know never to judge a book by its cover, but come one when you are faced with a cover that is as strikingly beautiful as this one then why wouldn’t I want to read it? Plus add into the fact that’s it’s Victorian (I do love books set in this era) and with its strong female lead and the hint of romance, plus suffragettes (yes, I was hooked from that alone) I had to read this book and my goodness am I pleased that I did, by Jove this is good!!
The Spirited Mrs Pringle is a little box of surprises – you undo the gold ribbon open the blue box and your eyes glow with amazement at the beautiful, exciting, fun, romantic and highly original gift within. I cannot recommend this enough, essential reading for anyone who loves historical fiction which features sassy and clever women.
September 21, 2021
This is a non spoiler review, because you as reader need to read this book. Also, I feel sometimes I have in the past gave away to much of the plot line. This has diminished the pleasure for would be readers.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Victorian London 1888
The Spirited Mrs Pringle, is Juillianne Hamilton’s first historical fiction novel. Let me say this book surpassed all my expectations.
Cora Pringle has been dealt a series of financial blows. Starting with her husband’s untimely death, leaving her completely penniless, to her amorist being an imposter.
Left without many options she creates a persona, and becomes Lady Selene.
A spiritualist who performs séance for society, quickly she becomes well known, as her business becomes lucrative.
This attracts the attention of a woman journalist Amelia Baxter, who has been refused by her editor to be allowed to cover the notorious Jack The Ripper.
Seeking out Lady Selene, Amelia will do everything in her power to discredit the phony spiritualist.
Hamilton delivers a captivating historical fiction, I thoroughly enjoyed the structure of this story and it had me hooked right from the very first chapter. Giving the reader two distinct strong women’s POV’s made this book really enjoyable.
The authors seamless narration definitely shines when it comes to how interesting and fleshed out her characters are. She connects you to her characters and has you totally believing in them which allowed me to be totally invested in their lives.
There is so much more to the storyline than two women who go head to head with each with each other. Complex friendships, along serious themes add depth to this book. The romance is wonderfully depicted, along with storyline that tackles some serious themes.
A wonderful historical fiction that will capture your attention right from the start and hold it all the way through to the satisfying end!
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Victorian London 1888
The Spirited Mrs Pringle, is Juillianne Hamilton’s first historical fiction novel. Let me say this book surpassed all my expectations.
Cora Pringle has been dealt a series of financial blows. Starting with her husband’s untimely death, leaving her completely penniless, to her amorist being an imposter.
Left without many options she creates a persona, and becomes Lady Selene.
A spiritualist who performs séance for society, quickly she becomes well known, as her business becomes lucrative.
This attracts the attention of a woman journalist Amelia Baxter, who has been refused by her editor to be allowed to cover the notorious Jack The Ripper.
Seeking out Lady Selene, Amelia will do everything in her power to discredit the phony spiritualist.
Hamilton delivers a captivating historical fiction, I thoroughly enjoyed the structure of this story and it had me hooked right from the very first chapter. Giving the reader two distinct strong women’s POV’s made this book really enjoyable.
The authors seamless narration definitely shines when it comes to how interesting and fleshed out her characters are. She connects you to her characters and has you totally believing in them which allowed me to be totally invested in their lives.
There is so much more to the storyline than two women who go head to head with each with each other. Complex friendships, along serious themes add depth to this book. The romance is wonderfully depicted, along with storyline that tackles some serious themes.
A wonderful historical fiction that will capture your attention right from the start and hold it all the way through to the satisfying end!
November 25, 2021
When her husband dies suddenly, Cora Pringle is left penniless and homeless. With no friends or relatives willing to help and a marriage proposal that could be the answer to all her problems rejected, Cora's hopes are pinned on the wealthy gentleman she has been dallying with recently. Unfortunately, Everett Rigby turns out to be equally penniless. With no other options available, Cora moves in with him. Poor Everett soon discovers that Cora is a liability, but refuses to walk away from their relationship.
In need of money, Cora stumbles on a way to make some by reading palms, which then expands to her becoming a headline spiritualist. Cora relishes her rise in status, but becomes the target of an ambitious journalist, Amelia Baxter, who is determined to expose Cora for the fraud that she is. What follows is an entertaining story of one woman's pursuit of fame and another's determination to end that pursuit and establish herself as a creditable journalist.
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is a fast-paced and fun read that will have you chuckling at the antics of Cora and her nemesis, Amelia. I can't say I liked Cora that much, although she was an interesting mix of selfishness, impetuosity and naivety. Her treatment of Everett was another black mark against her, but she did redeem herself towards the end. And speaking of the end, what a delightful surprise that was!
In need of money, Cora stumbles on a way to make some by reading palms, which then expands to her becoming a headline spiritualist. Cora relishes her rise in status, but becomes the target of an ambitious journalist, Amelia Baxter, who is determined to expose Cora for the fraud that she is. What follows is an entertaining story of one woman's pursuit of fame and another's determination to end that pursuit and establish herself as a creditable journalist.
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is a fast-paced and fun read that will have you chuckling at the antics of Cora and her nemesis, Amelia. I can't say I liked Cora that much, although she was an interesting mix of selfishness, impetuosity and naivety. Her treatment of Everett was another black mark against her, but she did redeem herself towards the end. And speaking of the end, what a delightful surprise that was!
August 5, 2025
Pros: - I felt very attached to Cora despite her many flaws. - I really like Everett Rigby and he was easily my favourite character. - I like Amelia, she was a feisty feminist. - The description of the circus/music hall show was great.
Cons: - Amelia was introduced too late compared to Cora and she wasn't a developed enough character in her own right except the character note of "practical, feminist journalist." - Editing, there was a lot of brushing of skirts or little "romantic" moments that could have been easily cut and not stopped the flow of the story. - Too many secondary and tertiary characters started popping up and entering and leaving the story willy-nilly.
What started for me as a very enjoyable historical fiction story turned into me pushing myself to finish the chapter before I gave myself permission to set it down. An admirable attempt, but maybe a strong editorial support was needed to bring it to market in its best form.
Cons: - Amelia was introduced too late compared to Cora and she wasn't a developed enough character in her own right except the character note of "practical, feminist journalist." - Editing, there was a lot of brushing of skirts or little "romantic" moments that could have been easily cut and not stopped the flow of the story. - Too many secondary and tertiary characters started popping up and entering and leaving the story willy-nilly.
What started for me as a very enjoyable historical fiction story turned into me pushing myself to finish the chapter before I gave myself permission to set it down. An admirable attempt, but maybe a strong editorial support was needed to bring it to market in its best form.
September 28, 2023
I'm very glad I traded out the first book I attempted for Local author book club and picked this one up instead. It was a fun read, touching on some deeper topics and kept me engaged until the end. I'll certainly look for more of her books in the future!
February 26, 2022
An excellent read. I absolutely loved this book.
January 26, 2022
I enjoyed it. Thought it was entertaining!
October 3, 2021
This is a story told from two very different vantage points, and while they are on opposing sides throughout the novel, in the end...they can truly see eye to eye.
Cora was an ambitious woman. She built herself up in life with a stable home, a stable husband, a comfortable amount of wealth shared, and a circle of friends that was enough...despite the blasted ladies group never inviting her to join them. Everything was fine, until it wasn't. One day, her world was turned in its head, and with the rug very cleanly swept out from under her, she was a ship lost in a storm...but only just. You see, her heart had found other ports in which to be harbored long before the disastrous event, and while it wasn't exactly perfect, the help granted with a full heart was much more than she could have hoped for at the time. She finds her footing again, however tenuous, and starts to believe things could be real once again...and sadly, the magic carpet ride she took not so long ago, starts all over again. How many times can a woman start anew before she throws in the towel? With Mrs. Pringle there never was a towel to throw in the first place.
Seriously, the way she kept putting on her proverbial big girl pants and got the job done was astounding, especially with the likes of Amelia running about trying to capture her own moment of glory while revealing all the reality behind the magic that people simply wanted to believe. I mean, Mrs. Pringle wasn't REALLY hurting anyone with her spiritual gests; in fact, some took great solace in the meetings she arranged. Amelia, however, would have none of it, and despite the challenges she faced, used the life of this woman, the trade she took on out of desperation, to make her own voice heard. Tit for tat, or something like that, actually pays off for BOTH of them in the end, hence the mention of them seeing eye to eye, but I shan't reveal all because discovering the story behind the magic is half the fun!
Suffice it to say, it's a great read for Historical Fiction fans with characters to love and loathe, and a fascinating look at spiritualists, magicians, and the like of the times.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
Cora was an ambitious woman. She built herself up in life with a stable home, a stable husband, a comfortable amount of wealth shared, and a circle of friends that was enough...despite the blasted ladies group never inviting her to join them. Everything was fine, until it wasn't. One day, her world was turned in its head, and with the rug very cleanly swept out from under her, she was a ship lost in a storm...but only just. You see, her heart had found other ports in which to be harbored long before the disastrous event, and while it wasn't exactly perfect, the help granted with a full heart was much more than she could have hoped for at the time. She finds her footing again, however tenuous, and starts to believe things could be real once again...and sadly, the magic carpet ride she took not so long ago, starts all over again. How many times can a woman start anew before she throws in the towel? With Mrs. Pringle there never was a towel to throw in the first place.
Seriously, the way she kept putting on her proverbial big girl pants and got the job done was astounding, especially with the likes of Amelia running about trying to capture her own moment of glory while revealing all the reality behind the magic that people simply wanted to believe. I mean, Mrs. Pringle wasn't REALLY hurting anyone with her spiritual gests; in fact, some took great solace in the meetings she arranged. Amelia, however, would have none of it, and despite the challenges she faced, used the life of this woman, the trade she took on out of desperation, to make her own voice heard. Tit for tat, or something like that, actually pays off for BOTH of them in the end, hence the mention of them seeing eye to eye, but I shan't reveal all because discovering the story behind the magic is half the fun!
Suffice it to say, it's a great read for Historical Fiction fans with characters to love and loathe, and a fascinating look at spiritualists, magicians, and the like of the times.
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
September 9, 2021
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“The Spirited Mrs. Pringle” is a compelling historical fiction novel about two women who take risks that impact their lives, and I enjoyed it!
The highlight of the storyline is the two main leads. It was interesting to read the two contrasting storylines between Cora and Amelia. The story starts with Cora mourning the loss of her husband Marshall, whereas Amelia is happily marrying her best friend, Simon. As the story progresses, you see how the dynamics between the two characters change as they go through ups and downs.
Cora is dynamic. On the one hand, my heart went out to Cora as she realizes her whole world is collapsing with insolvency. On the other hand, Cora’s manipulations irked me because of the way Cora cheats to make a living as Lady Selene. But, a part of me also wanted to see how far she would go with her plan. Nevertheless, Cora was the more charismatic person in the tale.
Moreover, I enjoyed the relationship between Cora and Everett. While I don’t condone their operations, I could not help by enjoying their chemistry. The other author their relationship wonderfully. Initially, Cora feels the need to hold a knife when she is near him, but that gradually changes as she spends more time with him.
Similarly, I was intrigued by Amelia’s world in the newspaper and want to be the best. The author spins the story in s a deliciously excellent manner where we see the two protagonists involved in a game to be the best, even if it means bringing down the other one. I also enjoyed how the author included the famous incidents of Jack the Ripper and Nellie Bly into the tale.
Overall, “The Spirited Mrs. Pringle” is a creative historical fiction novel worth picking up.
September 6, 2021
The spirited Mrs. Pringle is quite the finagler! Cora is not one to be told what to do as a woman and is quite outspoken. Her husband dies of a heart attack, and although the marriage was more of convenience she did have some heart, but quickly finds out that she has been left a widow with nothing. He had secrets of his own, and now Cora must figure out a way to survive, as she is being evicted from the house and she has had two marriage proposals and her husband is hardly cold in the ground.
Deciding to not take the proposal for wealth or convenience she decides to take refuge with her admirer, as all of her friends have turned their backs and she really has no other place to turn at this point. But things are not as he had made them appear, and now she is questioning her decision of turning down the other marriage proposal. The two are desperate in that they do not have much funds to live off of, and they are lying to most they come in contact with.
Mrs. Pringle realizes that that she can put her acting skills to use and with the help of her new beau, Everette their scheme works, they are able to contact the dead for others. Until a reporter knows something smells and does all she can to oust them, and they are then worse off then before- as she has been shown to be a fraud and once again people are turning their backs.
However, during her brief time as the Spirited Mrs. Pringle, she did catch the eye of someone who is interested in putting her talents to use. She cannot refuse this offer, and she is now being turned into the showcase, the main attraction until this reporter once again sniffs her out. Everette are back to being penniless and working for work to have enough to eat each day. Cora is really questioning her decision on sticking with Everette and makes a hasty decision to re-invent herself one more time- this time there is no trickery involved.
Thank you to HFVBT for the invite, and to the author for the free ebook.
Deciding to not take the proposal for wealth or convenience she decides to take refuge with her admirer, as all of her friends have turned their backs and she really has no other place to turn at this point. But things are not as he had made them appear, and now she is questioning her decision of turning down the other marriage proposal. The two are desperate in that they do not have much funds to live off of, and they are lying to most they come in contact with.
Mrs. Pringle realizes that that she can put her acting skills to use and with the help of her new beau, Everette their scheme works, they are able to contact the dead for others. Until a reporter knows something smells and does all she can to oust them, and they are then worse off then before- as she has been shown to be a fraud and once again people are turning their backs.
However, during her brief time as the Spirited Mrs. Pringle, she did catch the eye of someone who is interested in putting her talents to use. She cannot refuse this offer, and she is now being turned into the showcase, the main attraction until this reporter once again sniffs her out. Everette are back to being penniless and working for work to have enough to eat each day. Cora is really questioning her decision on sticking with Everette and makes a hasty decision to re-invent herself one more time- this time there is no trickery involved.
Thank you to HFVBT for the invite, and to the author for the free ebook.
September 1, 2021
I have read a couple of books that took place in this period of time when the interest in speaking the dead reached almost a frenzy like atmosphere. Everyone has lost someone close to them at some point in their life and the idea that you could contact them and know they are all right or get some advice or just to feel their love again is I think comforting to many people. That these feelings were taken advantage of by certain individuals was well, what a certain class of human beings has been doing to other human beings for time immemorial.
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle starts out with our heroine finding out that her husband, now deceased, has left her penniless. Not a good situation for a Victorian woman being without a man was definitely not how it was done. She thought she had it figured out but her new man turned out to be a serial philanderer. What is a woman to do?
Mrs. Pringle it seems, turned to speaking to the dead. With the help of an adoring friend she sets herself up as Madame Selene and starts channeling the spirit world until a reporter who is thwarted from covering a series of horrific killings of prostitutes decides to make it her mission to bring Mrs. Pringle down.
How does it all end? Well! You will have to read this vastly entertaining and just slightly dark read to find out. I read the book basically in one day (I had like two chapters left when I went to bed. Had I started a little earlier … ) and really didn’t want to put it down to cook dinner or to go to sleep with the little bit left but my eyes would not stay open. It was a wonderful distraction after all of the stress of packing up the house for our move from Montana to Vermont. It was a true delight to get lost in the story with the well drawn characters and defined settings that let me fall into the book so that I felt I was there.
4.5
The Spirited Mrs. Pringle starts out with our heroine finding out that her husband, now deceased, has left her penniless. Not a good situation for a Victorian woman being without a man was definitely not how it was done. She thought she had it figured out but her new man turned out to be a serial philanderer. What is a woman to do?
Mrs. Pringle it seems, turned to speaking to the dead. With the help of an adoring friend she sets herself up as Madame Selene and starts channeling the spirit world until a reporter who is thwarted from covering a series of horrific killings of prostitutes decides to make it her mission to bring Mrs. Pringle down.
How does it all end? Well! You will have to read this vastly entertaining and just slightly dark read to find out. I read the book basically in one day (I had like two chapters left when I went to bed. Had I started a little earlier … ) and really didn’t want to put it down to cook dinner or to go to sleep with the little bit left but my eyes would not stay open. It was a wonderful distraction after all of the stress of packing up the house for our move from Montana to Vermont. It was a true delight to get lost in the story with the well drawn characters and defined settings that let me fall into the book so that I felt I was there.
4.5
September 19, 2021
In late 1880s, significantly during the time Jack the Ripper terrorized London, Mrs. Pringle finds herself in severely reduced circumstances. Forced out of her home to pay her late husband’s debts, she is down, but not out and comes back fighting.
She manages to find her way as a spiritualist, with mixed results, but now she can pay for food and the rent on the rooms she is now reluctantly sharing with her partner and love interest. Her popularity increases but an intrepid woman reporter, Amelia, writes about her dishonest tactics—some might say criminal, some might say harmless. All Amelia wants is for the male reporters and her boss to see her as an equal and not relegate her to only writing columns about fashion and housekeeping tips.
I was fascinated by the rise and fall of Mrs. Pringle and Amelia as these two strong women characters clashed with each other. Neither of them wrong but neither of them completely in the right either. They make sacrifices to protect loved ones and to keep themselves from destitution in the hard, cruel male-dominated world of Victorian London.
What a wonderful book—original, charming, and well-researched. I could not put it down and highly recommend it. I am very much looking forward to more from this author.
She manages to find her way as a spiritualist, with mixed results, but now she can pay for food and the rent on the rooms she is now reluctantly sharing with her partner and love interest. Her popularity increases but an intrepid woman reporter, Amelia, writes about her dishonest tactics—some might say criminal, some might say harmless. All Amelia wants is for the male reporters and her boss to see her as an equal and not relegate her to only writing columns about fashion and housekeeping tips.
I was fascinated by the rise and fall of Mrs. Pringle and Amelia as these two strong women characters clashed with each other. Neither of them wrong but neither of them completely in the right either. They make sacrifices to protect loved ones and to keep themselves from destitution in the hard, cruel male-dominated world of Victorian London.
What a wonderful book—original, charming, and well-researched. I could not put it down and highly recommend it. I am very much looking forward to more from this author.
March 9, 2023
Delightful, unlikable Cora Pringle is a self-centered social-climber lacking any empathy or awareness-yet. She is funny and endearing in her survival and growth when widowed and destitute in 1888 London.
Amelia Baxter is a brave trail blazer within her very privileged class, admirable in her drive and loyalty as a reporter, journalist and suffragette, denied the opportunity to cover the horrific Jack the Ripper murders.
These two strong-willed women’s careers collide with unexpected twists as both navigate the life-altering challenges fate and their life choices throw at them.
I listened to this spirited book in audible, and while the narrator’s voice and accent were perfect for the time and place, the two first-person POVs of Cora and Amelia sounded identical to my ears, and could be confusing…who is talking? Reading it would likely not have this confusion. Still, I enjoyed it very much.
I really liked the ending – I won’t spoil it, but I found it very satisfying and so in character. And timeless.
Read or listen – I hope you enjoy this fun book as much as I did!
August 19, 2022
Ever wonder what would happen if Jo March decided to investigate social climber Becky Sharp? Jillian Hamilton has masterfully interwoven the story of two very unique and spirited women who may have more in common than they both realize.
Cora Pringle's husband has the audacity to leave her penniless, and her "wealthy" would-be paramour isn't in any better shape. Cora must use every bit of her wit and guile to make ends meet, and becomes a nearly overnight sensation as a spiritualist medium.
Ace (in more ways than one) reporter Amelia Baxter senses something fishy when she attends one of Cora's performances. Since her boss won't let her investigate the crime of the century (the Ripper murders), she convinces him to let her investigate Mrs. Pringle.
The resulting story has plenty of charm, a dash of romance, a diverse cast, and multidimensional characters that bring Victorian England to life.
Cora Pringle's husband has the audacity to leave her penniless, and her "wealthy" would-be paramour isn't in any better shape. Cora must use every bit of her wit and guile to make ends meet, and becomes a nearly overnight sensation as a spiritualist medium.
Ace (in more ways than one) reporter Amelia Baxter senses something fishy when she attends one of Cora's performances. Since her boss won't let her investigate the crime of the century (the Ripper murders), she convinces him to let her investigate Mrs. Pringle.
The resulting story has plenty of charm, a dash of romance, a diverse cast, and multidimensional characters that bring Victorian England to life.
July 2, 2022
The Spirited Mrs Pringle was an ok read. I initially picked it up because I love books told from multiple perspectives.
Unfortunately, The Spirited Mrs Pringle just went on and on and on. It meandered and over 100s of pages not a lot seemed to happen. At about 80% I wondered how it would all end as nothing really seemed to be coming together.
Cora (one our of protagonists) also wasn't particularly likeable. Though I did enjoy some of the other characters in the book, and Amelia's side of the story was interesting. It would have been good to see more of her and the suffrage movement. Or even more about spiritualism. Something more than the day to day of Cora.
Unfortunately, The Spirited Mrs Pringle just went on and on and on. It meandered and over 100s of pages not a lot seemed to happen. At about 80% I wondered how it would all end as nothing really seemed to be coming together.
Cora (one our of protagonists) also wasn't particularly likeable. Though I did enjoy some of the other characters in the book, and Amelia's side of the story was interesting. It would have been good to see more of her and the suffrage movement. Or even more about spiritualism. Something more than the day to day of Cora.
June 18, 2023
In this delightful novel, we follow Cora as she goes from unhappy wife to financially ruined widow to a successful medium who talks to the dead. Her nemesis, Amelia, a woman newspaper reporter, sets her sights on proving that Cora is a fraud.
Despite what could be regarded as her callousness toward those she is cheating, Cora convinces herself that she is bringing people comfort in thinking that they can talk to their departed loved ones. Following Cora’s and Amelia’s challenges take us on a ride with plenty of surprises, and we somehow manage to root for both of them. All of this leads to a thoroughly satisfying ending, having dipped into a deliciously different reality for a while.
Despite what could be regarded as her callousness toward those she is cheating, Cora convinces herself that she is bringing people comfort in thinking that they can talk to their departed loved ones. Following Cora’s and Amelia’s challenges take us on a ride with plenty of surprises, and we somehow manage to root for both of them. All of this leads to a thoroughly satisfying ending, having dipped into a deliciously different reality for a while.
March 17, 2023
This author takes us on quite an adventure in this quirky historical romance. The Spirited Mrs. Pringle is about Cora Pringle, a social climber left destitute after the loss of her husband. Of course she's not one to take anything lying down so she sets out to make her own way. Then there's Amelia, a journalist who's determined to expose Cora. This story provides us with an entertaining, funny story told from different perspectives about two strong, determined women in a time where women were usually on the lower rungs of life.
May 1, 2023
Cora and Amelia are two different women, but both are trying to gain a name for themselves, Cora as a spiritualist and Amelia as a journalist. The author draws these complex characters well. While you root for both of them to succeed, each has qualities that are troubling. Cora doesn't mind deceiving her audience in order to gain fame. Amelia takes out her frustration at not being assigned the stories she wants on Cora, a random target. Nonetheless, the world building in this novel is very well done, and the characters will tug at your heart. Highly recommended.
August 31, 2021
As a lover of historical fiction novels, The Spirited Mrs. Pringle does not disappoint. Filled with great character and world building (especially the variety of female characters), lots of surprising moments, and just overall entertainment, I really enjoyed reading this book.
I particularly love books that tie in sensational historical stories, and not just a war. Thank you to @hfvbt & @JillianneWrites for the gifted book.
I particularly love books that tie in sensational historical stories, and not just a war. Thank you to @hfvbt & @JillianneWrites for the gifted book.
September 9, 2021
My thanks to the publisher and Goodreads for the giveaway of this Kindle book, in exchange for my honest review.
Set in the late 1800s, this is the delightfully entertaining tale of the social climbing, newly widowed Cora Pringle. Finding herself without income, she becomes a spiritualist who may or may not actually communicate with the dead.
The characters and scenes are vividly, colorfully drawn. The book is full of surprises. Take a chance on this one!
Set in the late 1800s, this is the delightfully entertaining tale of the social climbing, newly widowed Cora Pringle. Finding herself without income, she becomes a spiritualist who may or may not actually communicate with the dead.
The characters and scenes are vividly, colorfully drawn. The book is full of surprises. Take a chance on this one!
May 7, 2022
Fun, friolous, and worth it.
Some serious issues hidden beneath a friolous front.To become penny less, and homeless, because of the death of a husband was quite normal. I was routing for Cora, because her story was being told. Amelia was fighting her own war, and there are always casualties in war.
Some serious issues hidden beneath a friolous front.To become penny less, and homeless, because of the death of a husband was quite normal. I was routing for Cora, because her story was being told. Amelia was fighting her own war, and there are always casualties in war.
February 28, 2022
This is an easy read and fun book, but not terribly exciting. A good beach read or something in between heavier reads.
May 7, 2022
3.5 stars
one of the few times where i enjoyed a book even though i never came to like the main character(s)
one of the few times where i enjoyed a book even though i never came to like the main character(s)
May 26, 2022
Ok light read. All though it’s set in a historical period there wasn’t a lot of historical information. A little long too.
April 3, 2023
Enjoyed this delightful, light-hearted read. The heroine, Cora Pringle kept me entertained, wondering what her next exploit would be. The story and writing style kept me thoroughly engaged.
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