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Miss Lattimore's Letter
The woman who never made a match of her own is making matches for everyone else in this hilarious comedy of manners from the author of Mr. Malcolm's List.
Sophronia Lattimore had her romantic dreams destroyed years ago and is resigned to her role as chaperone for her cousin. Still, she cannot sit idly by when she becomes aware that a gentleman is about to propose to the wrong woman. She sends him an anonymous letter that is soon the talk of the town, particularly when her advice proves to be correct. Her identity is discovered and Sophie, formerly a wallflower, becomes sought after for her “expert” matchmaking skills.
One person who seeks her out is the eligible and attractive Sir Edmund Winslow. As Sophie assists Sir Edmund in his pursuit of a wife, she wishes she could recommend herself as his bride. However, she vows to remain professional and uninvolved while aiding him in his search (especially since the gentleman surely does not return her affections).
Three unexpected arrivals soon show up at Sophie's door—the man who once broke her heart, a newlywed who is dissatisfied with the match Sophie made for her, and the man madly in love with Sophie's cousin—all wanting her attention. But when her onetime beau and Sir Edmund both appear to be interested in her, Sophie can’t figure out if she’s headed for another broken heart or for the altar. How can she be expected to help other people sort out their romantic lives when her own is such a disaster?
Sophronia Lattimore had her romantic dreams destroyed years ago and is resigned to her role as chaperone for her cousin. Still, she cannot sit idly by when she becomes aware that a gentleman is about to propose to the wrong woman. She sends him an anonymous letter that is soon the talk of the town, particularly when her advice proves to be correct. Her identity is discovered and Sophie, formerly a wallflower, becomes sought after for her “expert” matchmaking skills.
One person who seeks her out is the eligible and attractive Sir Edmund Winslow. As Sophie assists Sir Edmund in his pursuit of a wife, she wishes she could recommend herself as his bride. However, she vows to remain professional and uninvolved while aiding him in his search (especially since the gentleman surely does not return her affections).
Three unexpected arrivals soon show up at Sophie's door—the man who once broke her heart, a newlywed who is dissatisfied with the match Sophie made for her, and the man madly in love with Sophie's cousin—all wanting her attention. But when her onetime beau and Sir Edmund both appear to be interested in her, Sophie can’t figure out if she’s headed for another broken heart or for the altar. How can she be expected to help other people sort out their romantic lives when her own is such a disaster?
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 697 reviews
November 23, 2021
Flavored with a dash of Jane Austen and a pinch of Georgette Heyer, Miss Lattimore's Letter is an elegant treat of a Regency romance you'll devour in one sitting. Apologies for the baking analogies. I'm on a sugar fast at the moment and all I can think of is cake. But seriously, I read this novel straight through. It was absolutely lovely and gentle and filled with characters that were refreshingly complex. A passport to Regency London and Bath, it was just what I needed this holiday season to take my mind off of my troubles. Highly recommended.
December 22, 2021
It kills me that I did not love this book. I'm a fan of Suzanne Allain's earlier works and was beyond delighted to see she had another one coming out. And an older, on the shelf heroine? One of my favorite tropes.
It wasn't...bad. It leans more comedy of manners than romance, which I didn't expect but didn't necessarily hate.
It just left me feeling slightly bored?
My primary problem was that I wanted more of the main couple. They had potential but the story too often pads runtime with the antics of the other (frankly annoying) characters. Another reviewer points out that it would work better with a POV from the hero. But what makes it odd is that we get it...for a chapter. And then never again.
His eventual backstory was so dramatic it left me more amused than sympathetic.
Overall, though, it was clean and mildly entertaining. Just not funny enough for comedy of manners or romantic enough for romance.
Pre-Review
Yuuuussssssssssssssssssss
It wasn't...bad. It leans more comedy of manners than romance, which I didn't expect but didn't necessarily hate.
It just left me feeling slightly bored?
My primary problem was that I wanted more of the main couple. They had potential but the story too often pads runtime with the antics of the other (frankly annoying) characters. Another reviewer points out that it would work better with a POV from the hero. But what makes it odd is that we get it...for a chapter. And then never again.
His eventual backstory was so dramatic it left me more amused than sympathetic.
Overall, though, it was clean and mildly entertaining. Just not funny enough for comedy of manners or romantic enough for romance.
Pre-Review
Yuuuussssssssssssssssssss
September 18, 2021
At the age of twenty eight, Sophie Lattimore is resigned to her fate as a spinster. She is lucky that she has a place in her aunt's household, acting as her cousin Cecilia's chaperone. Still when Sophie acts upon some information she is chance to come across and sends an anonymous letter to a gentleman who is about to propose to the wrong woman, Sophie suddenly finds herself coming to the forefront of attention, garnering a reputation for herself as Lady Cupid. Soon others are coming to enlist her help, including the handsome Sir Edmund Winslow, who is eager to find a wife. The only issue with this is that Sophie rather takes a liking to Sir Edmund herself, still she does not expect such feelings to be returned and so sets store to do her best for him. Soon enough however, Sophie has reason to rather regret her previous match-making, and when an old suitor of her own turns up, certainly she finds herself struggling to manage her own romantic life.
My second book from Suzanne Allain, Miss Lattimore's Letter was very much in the same vein as her previous, Mr Malcolm's List, in that it was a light and easy Regency romance and comedy of manners. The story starts off in London, but soon moves to Bath, and follows the romantic entanglements of several couples.
I liked Sophie as the main character, she made for a slightly older heroine than the standard for Regency romances, and I liked her story of a second chance at love. I did at first rather wonder at how she could seriously be contemplating accepting the man who had previously broken her heart, however, I think Allain managed to convey the predicament that Sophie was in, the choice between marriage and all that it offered including a family and spinsterhood. Still, out of her two suitors I much preferred Sir Edmund, who was sweet and gentlemanly and seemed to genuinely appreciate Sophie. That being said, their path to happiness was at times rather a frustrating one, and at times I did find it hard to understand Sir Edmund, and why he seemed so reticent in his courtship of her. However, all was revealed in the end, and again I could appreciate his reasoning.
Some reviewers have commented that the story seemed a bit of a mash-up of Austen novels, and certainly I could see the nod to Emma perhaps, who had a penchant for match-making herself, and also to Persuasion, where the heroine Anne Elliot is a more mature character who has previously missed out on her chance at happiness. That being said Sophie was very much her own character.
As said before, the story very much followed the romantic exploits of multiple couples, including Sophie's cousin Cecilia, who at times was rather selfish in her thinking but ultimately still a likable character, and the Beswicks, newly married thanks to Sophie's intervention, but who are not finding their married life all that plain sailing. Allain managed to juggle these various sub-plots relatively well, with a colourful cast. The story did rely on rather a lot of misunderstandings and such, all of which were eventually neatly resolved, and I did also feel that having so many sub-plots did detract a little from the central romance itself.
I did like the family dynamics in the story, as whilst Sophie's aunt has previously merely done her duty by her, she comes to appreciate Sophie and is rather sweet towards her by the end. As with Mr Malcolm's List, the overall tone here is very light and at times some of the goings-on can seem a trifle silly, but once again it seems that is very much the intention, this being a comedy of manners.
Overall, I once again enjoyed this offering from Allain as a fun and easy read, however, as before, I don't think her style will be for everyone, and this was too light a read to be emotionally satisfying for me personally. I've given it 3 stars, but it is likely more of a 2.5 stars.
My second book from Suzanne Allain, Miss Lattimore's Letter was very much in the same vein as her previous, Mr Malcolm's List, in that it was a light and easy Regency romance and comedy of manners. The story starts off in London, but soon moves to Bath, and follows the romantic entanglements of several couples.
I liked Sophie as the main character, she made for a slightly older heroine than the standard for Regency romances, and I liked her story of a second chance at love. I did at first rather wonder at how she could seriously be contemplating accepting the man who had previously broken her heart, however, I think Allain managed to convey the predicament that Sophie was in, the choice between marriage and all that it offered including a family and spinsterhood. Still, out of her two suitors I much preferred Sir Edmund, who was sweet and gentlemanly and seemed to genuinely appreciate Sophie. That being said, their path to happiness was at times rather a frustrating one, and at times I did find it hard to understand Sir Edmund, and why he seemed so reticent in his courtship of her. However, all was revealed in the end, and again I could appreciate his reasoning.
Some reviewers have commented that the story seemed a bit of a mash-up of Austen novels, and certainly I could see the nod to Emma perhaps, who had a penchant for match-making herself, and also to Persuasion, where the heroine Anne Elliot is a more mature character who has previously missed out on her chance at happiness. That being said Sophie was very much her own character.
As said before, the story very much followed the romantic exploits of multiple couples, including Sophie's cousin Cecilia, who at times was rather selfish in her thinking but ultimately still a likable character, and the Beswicks, newly married thanks to Sophie's intervention, but who are not finding their married life all that plain sailing. Allain managed to juggle these various sub-plots relatively well, with a colourful cast. The story did rely on rather a lot of misunderstandings and such, all of which were eventually neatly resolved, and I did also feel that having so many sub-plots did detract a little from the central romance itself.
I did like the family dynamics in the story, as whilst Sophie's aunt has previously merely done her duty by her, she comes to appreciate Sophie and is rather sweet towards her by the end. As with Mr Malcolm's List, the overall tone here is very light and at times some of the goings-on can seem a trifle silly, but once again it seems that is very much the intention, this being a comedy of manners.
Overall, I once again enjoyed this offering from Allain as a fun and easy read, however, as before, I don't think her style will be for everyone, and this was too light a read to be emotionally satisfying for me personally. I've given it 3 stars, but it is likely more of a 2.5 stars.
August 11, 2021
An enjoyable traditional Regency with a few kisses and lots of promenading in the Grand Pump Room of Bath, Miss Lattimore's Letter recalls Jane Austen's Persuasion and Georgette Heyer's Black Sheep or Bath Tangle. It is always fun to read a historical romance that takes place outside of London's ballrooms, and there are plenty of different Bath details to keep you interested.
The plot itself involves Sophie (Sophronia), a slightly older heroine at 28, who manages to find herself the object of two men's amorous affections. How she handles the love triangle makes up the meat of the story. Subplots include a young couple in a tempestuous marriage and Sophie's younger cousin who is struggling with making a decision in a love triangle of her own.
Strengths of the book include complex characterization, especially of Sophie and her family, and the diversity of settings mentioned earlier. If you're looking for a clean, enjoyably lower-angst historical with some good-natured humor, this fits the bill.
This objective review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy of the novel.
The plot itself involves Sophie (Sophronia), a slightly older heroine at 28, who manages to find herself the object of two men's amorous affections. How she handles the love triangle makes up the meat of the story. Subplots include a young couple in a tempestuous marriage and Sophie's younger cousin who is struggling with making a decision in a love triangle of her own.
Strengths of the book include complex characterization, especially of Sophie and her family, and the diversity of settings mentioned earlier. If you're looking for a clean, enjoyably lower-angst historical with some good-natured humor, this fits the bill.
This objective review is based on a complimentary advanced reader copy of the novel.
September 19, 2022
This was a cute, fun story. There is romance, even a love triangle, but it’s secondary to everything else going on. So romance fans may be frustrated and feel there is not enough romance. As somone who is not a big romance fan (after getting married, I just don’t need it in fiction anymore), it was just right.
There are a ton of characters thrown in right away, and it took a while to get them straight. These leads to matches and triangles and misunderstandings between the characters. There’s plenty going on to keep things interesting. The writing style was nice, and the audio narrator was good. Everyone gets a happy ending, so yay.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: None
Violence: None
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
*Reader’s Choice Nominee Fall 2022*
There are a ton of characters thrown in right away, and it took a while to get them straight. These leads to matches and triangles and misunderstandings between the characters. There’s plenty going on to keep things interesting. The writing style was nice, and the audio narrator was good. Everyone gets a happy ending, so yay.
Language: Clean
Sexual Content: None
Violence: None
Harm to Animals:
Harm to Children:
Other (Triggers):
*Reader’s Choice Nominee Fall 2022*
November 6, 2021
Do you love seeing a supposedly older and wiser woman still simp after a former lover that betrayed her? And still give him the benefit of the doubt? While another man that's perfect for her is right there? And then has the gall to feel torn between the two? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then by all means read this book. Otherwise, steer clear.
I stopped reading less then halfway through. I just couldn't stand the hemming and hawing anymore, like have some self-respect, girl!
I stopped reading less then halfway through. I just couldn't stand the hemming and hawing anymore, like have some self-respect, girl!
January 10, 2022
Mr. Malcom's List was a delight but this? Wow. There are no words for how sweet and charming this was
Obviously, since I read the two back to back (they aren't connected, only by the same author and set in the time same period), I can't help comparing them. This one had a more mature air. Not that the other was *immature* just that it was more about young love and this was more about second loves and past regrets. I adore it (and especially Sophie and Sir Edmund) so much
It had a very Emma meets Persuasion feel, which is such an odd combo, but worked so beautifully. It simply sparkled and I was utterly entranced from start to finish, rushing through it to see what happened and hanging on every word, barely able to read the scenes fast enough
I wish we'd gotten Sir Edmund's point of view and wasn't overly interested in the Beswicks' storyline, but I understand why both those choices were made and the purpose they served in the story, so shouldn't complain
All in all, I absolutely LOVED this book from start to finish and am sorry to have nothing more by the author to read. Eagerly awaiting her next release, whatever that might be :3
Obviously, since I read the two back to back (they aren't connected, only by the same author and set in the time same period), I can't help comparing them. This one had a more mature air. Not that the other was *immature* just that it was more about young love and this was more about second loves and past regrets. I adore it (and especially Sophie and Sir Edmund) so much
It had a very Emma meets Persuasion feel, which is such an odd combo, but worked so beautifully. It simply sparkled and I was utterly entranced from start to finish, rushing through it to see what happened and hanging on every word, barely able to read the scenes fast enough
I wish we'd gotten Sir Edmund's point of view and wasn't overly interested in the Beswicks' storyline, but I understand why both those choices were made and the purpose they served in the story, so shouldn't complain
All in all, I absolutely LOVED this book from start to finish and am sorry to have nothing more by the author to read. Eagerly awaiting her next release, whatever that might be :3
June 26, 2021
Sophie Lattimore has been a poor relation staying with her aunt and cousin for a number of years. She often finds herself in the background at social events and was not surprised when she overheard two people talking. Priscilla Hammond, diamond of the first water, is conversing with childhood sweetheart Charles Beswick and it sounds like they have feelings for each other. Sophie knows that Priscilla is being courted by Lord Fitzwater and she also knows that her cousin's friend Lucy Barrett is in love with him. So she decides to write an anonymous letter...which has unexpected consequences.
Her identity gets out and people begin to believe that she is some sort of gifted matchmaker. Nothing could be further from the truth. Sophie is approached by Sir Edmund Winslow who asks her to help him find a suitable match. Sophie is interested in him and hopes that he would find her his perfect match. But when Mr. Maitland, the man who broke her heart at eighteen reappears and begins courting her again, Sophie becomes very confused about what she wants for her life.
This isn't the only romantic tangle in the story. Priscilla and Charles marry but they aren't getting along and Priscilla comes to Sophie for more romantic advice. And Sophie's cousin Cecelia is also torn between Mr. Hartwell who is kind and loves her and Lord Courtney who would be the catch of the season but is both boring and stupid.
It takes time and lots of amusing situations before all the various lovers are paired off with their proper mates in this engaging historical romance.
Her identity gets out and people begin to believe that she is some sort of gifted matchmaker. Nothing could be further from the truth. Sophie is approached by Sir Edmund Winslow who asks her to help him find a suitable match. Sophie is interested in him and hopes that he would find her his perfect match. But when Mr. Maitland, the man who broke her heart at eighteen reappears and begins courting her again, Sophie becomes very confused about what she wants for her life.
This isn't the only romantic tangle in the story. Priscilla and Charles marry but they aren't getting along and Priscilla comes to Sophie for more romantic advice. And Sophie's cousin Cecelia is also torn between Mr. Hartwell who is kind and loves her and Lord Courtney who would be the catch of the season but is both boring and stupid.
It takes time and lots of amusing situations before all the various lovers are paired off with their proper mates in this engaging historical romance.
October 15, 2021
If you’re a fan of Jen Turano’s Gilded Age romcoms, I’ve got a Regency author you need to try too! Miss Lattimore’s Letter by Suzanne Allain brought several of Turano’s madcap adventures to mind, along with Jane Austen’s Emma and a dash of Georgette Heyer. It’s always refreshing to find a clean read I can recommend from a general market publisher, and I’ve really enjoyed several that Berkley is releasing lately!
Reading Miss Lattimore’s Letter was delightfully like watching a play unfold in front of me, not surprising given the author’s background in screenwriting, and I couldn’t wipe the grin off my face as the characters’ antics and vivid personalities stole the show. Much like Austen’s Emma, Sophie has some maturing to do as the story begins – particularly when it comes to meddling in other people’s relationships. This is also the source of much of the book’s endearing wit and humor, however, and the author makes Sophie so likable that you (and the other characters) can easily overlook her misplaced meddling. In other words, Miss Lattimore’s Letter – while certainly not a retelling of Emma – is a nod to all of the best parts of Austen’s own erstwhile matchmaker with none of the frustrating parts.
Sir Edmund may not be a Mr. Knightley – or a Mr. Darcy – but he shines all on his own. His easy banter with Sophie, his feelings for her (you easily get the impression that he feels much more strongly for her than he shows outwardly), and his integrity are all things that put him in the ‘swoony hero’ category for sure.
Bottom Line: Miss Lattimore’s Letter by Suzanne Allain is full of wit, hilarity, and of course romance. The setting of Bath almost becomes a supporting character at times, and Regency romance readers will find much to smile about during their visit on these pages. A hodgepodge of Austenesque personalities make up the actual characters in this novel (the setting of Bath, notwithstanding) who experience heartwarming growth together, and it’s difficult to imagine the story without each of the players. I found the author’s writing voice to be delightful and warm, and I could easily envision the scenes playing out in front of me. Hold on to your bonnet & reticule for some madcap mayhem to close out the story – a perfect choice for Jen Turano & Jane Austen fans!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Reading Miss Lattimore’s Letter was delightfully like watching a play unfold in front of me, not surprising given the author’s background in screenwriting, and I couldn’t wipe the grin off my face as the characters’ antics and vivid personalities stole the show. Much like Austen’s Emma, Sophie has some maturing to do as the story begins – particularly when it comes to meddling in other people’s relationships. This is also the source of much of the book’s endearing wit and humor, however, and the author makes Sophie so likable that you (and the other characters) can easily overlook her misplaced meddling. In other words, Miss Lattimore’s Letter – while certainly not a retelling of Emma – is a nod to all of the best parts of Austen’s own erstwhile matchmaker with none of the frustrating parts.
Sir Edmund may not be a Mr. Knightley – or a Mr. Darcy – but he shines all on his own. His easy banter with Sophie, his feelings for her (you easily get the impression that he feels much more strongly for her than he shows outwardly), and his integrity are all things that put him in the ‘swoony hero’ category for sure.
Bottom Line: Miss Lattimore’s Letter by Suzanne Allain is full of wit, hilarity, and of course romance. The setting of Bath almost becomes a supporting character at times, and Regency romance readers will find much to smile about during their visit on these pages. A hodgepodge of Austenesque personalities make up the actual characters in this novel (the setting of Bath, notwithstanding) who experience heartwarming growth together, and it’s difficult to imagine the story without each of the players. I found the author’s writing voice to be delightful and warm, and I could easily envision the scenes playing out in front of me. Hold on to your bonnet & reticule for some madcap mayhem to close out the story – a perfect choice for Jen Turano & Jane Austen fans!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
January 17, 2025
Very boring lol
May 22, 2021
What a fun and enjoyable book. I love light reads with romance and a bit of intrigue.
Miss Lattimore sends out a letter to a Gentleman letting him know he is going to propose to a woman that doesn’t really love him. With that this wonderful book starts. I really like Sophie as an MC she was very funny. She wants the best for everyone however once she is discovered as the writer of the letter thing get a bit messy. People call her a matchmaker but can she be one with only on letter sent and 2 matches? Well Sophie feels like she needs to make things better. As she tries to help others she finds herself possibly falling for Sir Edmund some one she has said she will help find a wife. Will she get her own happily every after?
I really liked how all the characters fell into play. I really loved how so many of the characters reminded me of Jan Austen characters. And I loved the trip to Bath. It felt like I was there and that is just the way a book should make you feel. It should transport you to that place. I now want to go to Bath and visit.
Overall a great regency romance and fun read. This book comes out in August 2021.
**Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC**
Miss Lattimore sends out a letter to a Gentleman letting him know he is going to propose to a woman that doesn’t really love him. With that this wonderful book starts. I really like Sophie as an MC she was very funny. She wants the best for everyone however once she is discovered as the writer of the letter thing get a bit messy. People call her a matchmaker but can she be one with only on letter sent and 2 matches? Well Sophie feels like she needs to make things better. As she tries to help others she finds herself possibly falling for Sir Edmund some one she has said she will help find a wife. Will she get her own happily every after?
I really liked how all the characters fell into play. I really loved how so many of the characters reminded me of Jan Austen characters. And I loved the trip to Bath. It felt like I was there and that is just the way a book should make you feel. It should transport you to that place. I now want to go to Bath and visit.
Overall a great regency romance and fun read. This book comes out in August 2021.
**Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC**
August 5, 2021
While this is not a retelling of Persuasion, it gave me so many similar emotions. Maybe it's references to a letter or the years of solitude after a lost love? Either way, I have big love for both novels.
Miss Lattimore - aka Sophie - writes a letter in order to see two couples seek their happily ever after unintentionally witnessing the angst and heartbreak of one couple and the potential loss of another. She does so anonymously but is quickly found out. To her credit, she sees a surge in popularity as a wallflower on the shelf when it so easily could have gone the other way. Her notoriety as a newly minted matchmaker has several individuals seeking her counsel. Sophie's confidence is shaken when she has a set of suitors and insecurities to navigate herself.
This read is full of wit and whimsy. I thoroughly enjoyed the settings and characterizations of the full cast. It makes me want to visit Bath and take the waters, even if it does taste like drinking too many muddy vitamins.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Miss Lattimore - aka Sophie - writes a letter in order to see two couples seek their happily ever after unintentionally witnessing the angst and heartbreak of one couple and the potential loss of another. She does so anonymously but is quickly found out. To her credit, she sees a surge in popularity as a wallflower on the shelf when it so easily could have gone the other way. Her notoriety as a newly minted matchmaker has several individuals seeking her counsel. Sophie's confidence is shaken when she has a set of suitors and insecurities to navigate herself.
This read is full of wit and whimsy. I thoroughly enjoyed the settings and characterizations of the full cast. It makes me want to visit Bath and take the waters, even if it does taste like drinking too many muddy vitamins.
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
January 20, 2022
Dit verhaal is maar net ietsje beter dan Mr. Malcoms lijst die kreeg 2 sterren van mij en dit verhaal 2,5 sterren . Er zit gewoon niets verrassends in de verhalen van deze schrijfster , geen romantiek om van te dromen en ook geen humor .
August 6, 2021
Cupid’s pen produces a few inkblots.
Whilst I enjoyed Sophronia Lattimore and Sir Edmund Winslow, at many times I felt I was watching a Wayang Kulit play (Javanese Shadow puppets) or a mashup of other novels I read, particularly Austenian.
Interfering in the romantic life of two couples, from her chaperone / wallflower position Sophie decides to take action to change their fate. Imagine her surprise when society decides she’s a talented matchmaker. Letter writing is such an art!
Since her father died, Sophie has lived in her aunt’s household, at her pleasure. Sophie had once looked for an engagement wth an ardent suitor, only to have the bounder up and marry a wealthier woman. Of course her society concluded that it was Sophie’s fault the gentleman had looked elsewhere. So the rotter gets off scot free. Grr!
Sophie is Austen’s Emma-like in her interference in others life, although Heyer-like in her willingness to look at her efforts and consider the truth about her so called wisdom.
The opening scene is rather funny. Alain does convey a lively sense of humor and wit at times, although I still don’t feel fully satisfied with the story as a whole. It’s in this scene that Sophie meets the socially reclusive Sir Edmund. Rather endearing.
Where Alain loses me completely is where Sophie’s ex-suitor (ex-swine IMO), Mr. Maitland, re-emerges as a widower and she contemplates him as future husband material. Really!
The road to happiness is strewn with pebbles, not quite boulders, and misinterpretations.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
Whilst I enjoyed Sophronia Lattimore and Sir Edmund Winslow, at many times I felt I was watching a Wayang Kulit play (Javanese Shadow puppets) or a mashup of other novels I read, particularly Austenian.
Interfering in the romantic life of two couples, from her chaperone / wallflower position Sophie decides to take action to change their fate. Imagine her surprise when society decides she’s a talented matchmaker. Letter writing is such an art!
Since her father died, Sophie has lived in her aunt’s household, at her pleasure. Sophie had once looked for an engagement wth an ardent suitor, only to have the bounder up and marry a wealthier woman. Of course her society concluded that it was Sophie’s fault the gentleman had looked elsewhere. So the rotter gets off scot free. Grr!
Sophie is Austen’s Emma-like in her interference in others life, although Heyer-like in her willingness to look at her efforts and consider the truth about her so called wisdom.
The opening scene is rather funny. Alain does convey a lively sense of humor and wit at times, although I still don’t feel fully satisfied with the story as a whole. It’s in this scene that Sophie meets the socially reclusive Sir Edmund. Rather endearing.
Where Alain loses me completely is where Sophie’s ex-suitor (ex-swine IMO), Mr. Maitland, re-emerges as a widower and she contemplates him as future husband material. Really!
The road to happiness is strewn with pebbles, not quite boulders, and misinterpretations.
An enjoyable read nonetheless.
A Berkley Group ARC via NetGalley
September 13, 2021
This was a fine, chaste, low-stakes Regency romance. Not particularly my cup of tea, which I probably should have guessed by the cover, but that's my fault, not the author's. The thing is, if no one is on the verge of death, prison, or orgasm, I can't bring myself to care about historical romance, so this was a bit of a snoozefest for me.
July 19, 2021
✔️ a whimsical story - somewhat reminiscent of Jane Austen stories
✔️ the Cupid angle was cute
✔️ I enjoyed that there were multiple couples and stories throughout the book
✖️I missed the dual narrative that so many romance books now have
3.5 ⭐️
✔️ the Cupid angle was cute
✔️ I enjoyed that there were multiple couples and stories throughout the book
✖️I missed the dual narrative that so many romance books now have
3.5 ⭐️
December 12, 2022
“Of course. I am a single gentleman in possession of a good fortune, so I must be in want of a wife.”
“Sophie smiled at his reference to a popular novel written by “a lady” that she had also read and enjoyed.“
‘Miss Lattimore’s Letter’ by Suzanne Allain is a cute story, that reminded me of Jane Austen’s Emma. It has a romcom regency feel and I loved the humor and wit. It’s a story of friendship, matchmaking mishchief of course, and following ones heart to happiness.
Sophie Lattimore is an observant wallflower who writes a letter. A letter to help a love match along. That letter changes everything and Sophie is declared a successful matchmaker. Others come to ask for her assistance, including the dashing Edmund Winslow. But what happens when the matchmaker longs for a match of her own?
This book follows Sophie as she tries to make matches for others, and it also follows her cousin Cecilia as she tries to make a match of her own. There is more then one love story in this book.
There are dashing gentleman, not so dashing gentleman, friendships, dancing at balls, shenanigans, second chances, courting lessons, letters, and hearts torn between suitors. This story is set in London and Bath and I really enjoyed it!
This book had me smiling, laughing, turning pages to see what would happen next, and cheering certain characters on.
I listened to the audiobook and it was so well done.
Content:some mild innuendos, a scandal mentioned, love triangles, kisses only
4.75 stars
“Sophie smiled at his reference to a popular novel written by “a lady” that she had also read and enjoyed.“
‘Miss Lattimore’s Letter’ by Suzanne Allain is a cute story, that reminded me of Jane Austen’s Emma. It has a romcom regency feel and I loved the humor and wit. It’s a story of friendship, matchmaking mishchief of course, and following ones heart to happiness.
Sophie Lattimore is an observant wallflower who writes a letter. A letter to help a love match along. That letter changes everything and Sophie is declared a successful matchmaker. Others come to ask for her assistance, including the dashing Edmund Winslow. But what happens when the matchmaker longs for a match of her own?
This book follows Sophie as she tries to make matches for others, and it also follows her cousin Cecilia as she tries to make a match of her own. There is more then one love story in this book.
There are dashing gentleman, not so dashing gentleman, friendships, dancing at balls, shenanigans, second chances, courting lessons, letters, and hearts torn between suitors. This story is set in London and Bath and I really enjoyed it!
This book had me smiling, laughing, turning pages to see what would happen next, and cheering certain characters on.
I listened to the audiobook and it was so well done.
Content:some mild innuendos, a scandal mentioned, love triangles, kisses only
4.75 stars
February 11, 2022
It all started when a Wallflower wrote a letter.
After the sparkling and fun hit, Mr. Malcolm’s List, author Suzanne Allain returns with a new, engaging Regency Romp featuring an unexpected and reluctant matchmaker and a social season in Bath to determine the outcome of her efforts. A light and quick read for wiling away a few pleasurable reading moments.
A Heroine on the Shelf
“It had been many years since Sophronia Lattimore used her fan as a means of flirtatious conversation.” (1)
When Sophie’s last remaining parent died, she was taken in by her aunt and finds herself at twenty-eight, on the shelf and escorting her younger, vibrant cousin Cecilia for her first London Season.
An Anonymous Matchmaker
Sophie’s people watching and listening leads her to notice four people who are all privately miserable because the wrong pairings are in progress. Determined to see them all find their chance at happiness, she anonymously writes a letter which sets all to rights.
This successful matchmaking work has become the talk of London and word gets out that she was the author of the letter. Her obscurity is now a thing of the past and a very eligible, likeable and handsome man, Sir Edmund Winslow, has taken notice and desires her acquaintance to talk about matching him up. Or so she believes.
“Is Lizzy Bennet your ideal, then?” Sophie asked.
“Of course. A woman of wit and good sense, determined to marry not for advantage, but affection. She is precisely who I am looking for.”
Sophie shook her head in mock despair. “But, Sir Edmund, therein lies your problem. She doesn’t exist.”
“There must surely be ladies like her, however. Look at you,” he said. (25)
Multiple Couples Meet in Bath
With her aunt under the impression that a wealthy baronet might come to be interested in Cecilia along with the affable Mr. Hartwell already dancing attendance, she is determine to remove them to Bath closer to Sir Edmund’s estate. Bath becomes the destination for the Beswicks whom Sophie helped pair up with her letter and, to her consternation, Mr. Maitland. It is the home of an aristocratic dowager whom Aunt Foster cultivates to be accepted in the highest circles of Bath Society.
Second Chance and New Romance
Maitland was the man who walked away from their courtship in the past to marry for wealth and advantage. Sophie feels the connection with Sir Edmund, but now is tempted by a second chance since she is unsure if Sir Edmund would ever consider the Poor Relation. Meanwhile, Cecilia finds herself capturing the attention of a Viscount, no less, and might wait until too late to discover which gentleman of her acquaintance can truly make her happy.
Sparkling Comedy of Errors
Miss Lattimore’s Letter invites the reader to join Sophie and Cecilia in Bath for their romantic misadventures and little foibles. Not digging terribly deeply and a few slower moments when either lady seemed to be dithering, but mostly engaging. Light of nature and gentle of pace, it is a sparkling comedy of errors.
“I shall never understand you, Miss Lattimore. Here we are, at the wedding celebration of a match you instigated, and yet you have an aversion to making matches.”
“It is not an aversion. It is just…a profound respect, I suppose, for the institution… (Matrimony) is not to be taken unadvisedly, lightly, or wantonly, but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, and soberly, and in fear of God.”
“I think you left out a portion,” Sir Edmund said, with a wicked twinkle in his eye.
And Sophie, who had knowingly omitted the part about how marriage should not be undertaken to ‘satisfy men’s carnal lusts and appetites,” had a difficult time keeping a straight countenance.” (41-42)
Tolerable Love Triangle
Each character is engaging. Sophie is the central figure and has the predominant narration time. She has been taught to devalue herself by an indifferent aunt and cousin. Sophie must discover that she is worthy. I’m not a fan of love triangles, but, in this case, I tolerated it—a chance for Sophie to come to terms with her past as well as shine when a worthy gentleman shows her attention.
Sir Edmund, Cecilia, and Lawrence Hartwell also get narration time. Sir Edmund is something of an enigma until near the end when his reticence is explained. As to Cecilia, her mother taught her to reach high because of her looks and decent dowry so it took her some time to see the treasure of the man who had been constant through all her playing hot and cold with him. I was prepared to dislike Cecilia for her behavior toward Sophie, but she changed along the way and really grew out of her self-absorption.
Last Dance
Miss Lattimore’s List had light drama set off by well-placed comedy. The overall story felt balanced and amusing—easy reading—as sweet as a coveted dessert. Recommend to those who enjoy old-style light Regency Romance with a dash of wit and lively characters.
I rec'd a print copy from the author to read in exchange for an honest review.
After the sparkling and fun hit, Mr. Malcolm’s List, author Suzanne Allain returns with a new, engaging Regency Romp featuring an unexpected and reluctant matchmaker and a social season in Bath to determine the outcome of her efforts. A light and quick read for wiling away a few pleasurable reading moments.
A Heroine on the Shelf
“It had been many years since Sophronia Lattimore used her fan as a means of flirtatious conversation.” (1)
When Sophie’s last remaining parent died, she was taken in by her aunt and finds herself at twenty-eight, on the shelf and escorting her younger, vibrant cousin Cecilia for her first London Season.
An Anonymous Matchmaker
Sophie’s people watching and listening leads her to notice four people who are all privately miserable because the wrong pairings are in progress. Determined to see them all find their chance at happiness, she anonymously writes a letter which sets all to rights.
This successful matchmaking work has become the talk of London and word gets out that she was the author of the letter. Her obscurity is now a thing of the past and a very eligible, likeable and handsome man, Sir Edmund Winslow, has taken notice and desires her acquaintance to talk about matching him up. Or so she believes.
“Is Lizzy Bennet your ideal, then?” Sophie asked.
“Of course. A woman of wit and good sense, determined to marry not for advantage, but affection. She is precisely who I am looking for.”
Sophie shook her head in mock despair. “But, Sir Edmund, therein lies your problem. She doesn’t exist.”
“There must surely be ladies like her, however. Look at you,” he said. (25)
Multiple Couples Meet in Bath
With her aunt under the impression that a wealthy baronet might come to be interested in Cecilia along with the affable Mr. Hartwell already dancing attendance, she is determine to remove them to Bath closer to Sir Edmund’s estate. Bath becomes the destination for the Beswicks whom Sophie helped pair up with her letter and, to her consternation, Mr. Maitland. It is the home of an aristocratic dowager whom Aunt Foster cultivates to be accepted in the highest circles of Bath Society.
Second Chance and New Romance
Maitland was the man who walked away from their courtship in the past to marry for wealth and advantage. Sophie feels the connection with Sir Edmund, but now is tempted by a second chance since she is unsure if Sir Edmund would ever consider the Poor Relation. Meanwhile, Cecilia finds herself capturing the attention of a Viscount, no less, and might wait until too late to discover which gentleman of her acquaintance can truly make her happy.
Sparkling Comedy of Errors
Miss Lattimore’s Letter invites the reader to join Sophie and Cecilia in Bath for their romantic misadventures and little foibles. Not digging terribly deeply and a few slower moments when either lady seemed to be dithering, but mostly engaging. Light of nature and gentle of pace, it is a sparkling comedy of errors.
“I shall never understand you, Miss Lattimore. Here we are, at the wedding celebration of a match you instigated, and yet you have an aversion to making matches.”
“It is not an aversion. It is just…a profound respect, I suppose, for the institution… (Matrimony) is not to be taken unadvisedly, lightly, or wantonly, but reverently, discreetly, advisedly, and soberly, and in fear of God.”
“I think you left out a portion,” Sir Edmund said, with a wicked twinkle in his eye.
And Sophie, who had knowingly omitted the part about how marriage should not be undertaken to ‘satisfy men’s carnal lusts and appetites,” had a difficult time keeping a straight countenance.” (41-42)
Tolerable Love Triangle
Each character is engaging. Sophie is the central figure and has the predominant narration time. She has been taught to devalue herself by an indifferent aunt and cousin. Sophie must discover that she is worthy. I’m not a fan of love triangles, but, in this case, I tolerated it—a chance for Sophie to come to terms with her past as well as shine when a worthy gentleman shows her attention.
Sir Edmund, Cecilia, and Lawrence Hartwell also get narration time. Sir Edmund is something of an enigma until near the end when his reticence is explained. As to Cecilia, her mother taught her to reach high because of her looks and decent dowry so it took her some time to see the treasure of the man who had been constant through all her playing hot and cold with him. I was prepared to dislike Cecilia for her behavior toward Sophie, but she changed along the way and really grew out of her self-absorption.
Last Dance
Miss Lattimore’s List had light drama set off by well-placed comedy. The overall story felt balanced and amusing—easy reading—as sweet as a coveted dessert. Recommend to those who enjoy old-style light Regency Romance with a dash of wit and lively characters.
I rec'd a print copy from the author to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2021
This was an entertaining Regency romance in the vein of a cross between Jane Austen's Emma and Persuasion with a touch of the Bridgerton series thrown in for good measure. If you enjoy all the intricacies of Regency courtship this book will be right up your alley. Almost-spinster Sophie Lattimore becomes an unintended matchmaker much to her dismay and goes on an adventure to Bath with her younger cousin Cecilia where both ladies must choose between two eligible bachelors but have a hard time making up their minds. Highly recommended for a light romantic diversion and fans of Mary Balogh, Julia Quinn or Martha Waters. Much thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my advance review copy.
January 4, 2022
Such a cute book! A very sweet, clean, & fun read. I loved meeting all the characters and finding out how their futures would intertwine. It was a fairly simple story, with a few little plot twists. But, what I especially loved was the fact that I could just cuddle up with a cup of cocoa and a warm quilt, and just enjoy it, without worrying about reading anything off color or salacious. I thoroughly enjoyed this! Thank you Suzanne for another wonderful story!
November 4, 2022
Quick, cute, fun read that I think I would have enjoyed better had the main couple had more screen time together. But I've been in a book slump lately and have given up on SEVERAL books after only a few pages for like...the past month, so this one gets points for getting me to finish it.
August 31, 2023
I was not a fan. It felt like everything was rushed and the focus was on so many different couples that getting a clear storyline for the lead was difficult.
December 30, 2024
Just tryna hit my reading goal before the year ends
February 3, 2023
4.5⭐️ A very cute historical romance. Quick, witty, funny. I enjoyed the characters.
June 29, 2022
I'm really disappointed I didn't love this book. It seems like something I'd completely love but it really didn't work for me.
I didn't feel as much chemistry between the love interests as I should have. The main couple was cute, I guess, but I was very meh about them. There was also one of the stupidest love triangles I've ever read. I wanted to shake Sophie for even entertaining Maitland. He is so obviously a crummy guy. He literally makes my skin crawl. I'm not obsessed with Edmund either tbh, but at least he's not a jerk. Also, so much of the drama in this book could have been solved with a letter. This was the Regency era, so pen and paper had been invented, but apparently the characters didn't realize that. I get that there's social conventions and all that, but it's not like it was illegal.
I will say some good things about this book because it wasn't all bad. The author did a great job at creating characters that were all unique and different from each other. I particularly loved Priscilla. She was ridiculous and kind of annoying, but she was also great comic relief.
There's one more book by this author that I'm interested in and I'll give it a try, but if I don't like it I won't read anything else by her since this is already the second book by the author I didn't like.
I didn't feel as much chemistry between the love interests as I should have. The main couple was cute, I guess, but I was very meh about them. There was also one of the stupidest love triangles I've ever read. I wanted to shake Sophie for even entertaining Maitland. He is so obviously a crummy guy. He literally makes my skin crawl. I'm not obsessed with Edmund either tbh, but at least he's not a jerk. Also, so much of the drama in this book could have been solved with a letter. This was the Regency era, so pen and paper had been invented, but apparently the characters didn't realize that. I get that there's social conventions and all that, but it's not like it was illegal.
I will say some good things about this book because it wasn't all bad. The author did a great job at creating characters that were all unique and different from each other. I particularly loved Priscilla. She was ridiculous and kind of annoying, but she was also great comic relief.
There's one more book by this author that I'm interested in and I'll give it a try, but if I don't like it I won't read anything else by her since this is already the second book by the author I didn't like.
July 22, 2021
🌟Glowing review🌟
I absolutely adore Suzanne Allain's brilliant, witty, engaging regency writing! She is masterful with her turns-of-phrase and the way she delivers a witty line.
Miss Lattimore's Letter was the most fun regency romp, with a hilarious, unique, and delightful cast! And the way they all grew together and developed made my heart so squishy and happy. I felt like I was watching a Broadway play and at the end, I wanted to stand and shout and cheer for the cast! Sir Edmund also gave me some Darcy vibes in the best way.
I don't want to spoil anything, but I loved the ending. It was chaotic (in a good way), and surprising in true traditional regency form (Georgette Heyer would be so incredibly proud!) I couldn't stop reading. And I felt so satisfied in the end. My mouth hurt from smiling.
If you love traditional Heyeresque regency romances, you'll ADORE this one! This one is not steamy, and it’s not supposed to be! It’s about the plot and the fun antics of the cast, and I really appreciated how easy it was to escape into this book and laugh and smile!
Thank you @suzanne.allain for another lovely book!! And thank you @berkleyromance for the ARC!
Content:
- A few chaste kisses
I absolutely adore Suzanne Allain's brilliant, witty, engaging regency writing! She is masterful with her turns-of-phrase and the way she delivers a witty line.
Miss Lattimore's Letter was the most fun regency romp, with a hilarious, unique, and delightful cast! And the way they all grew together and developed made my heart so squishy and happy. I felt like I was watching a Broadway play and at the end, I wanted to stand and shout and cheer for the cast! Sir Edmund also gave me some Darcy vibes in the best way.
I don't want to spoil anything, but I loved the ending. It was chaotic (in a good way), and surprising in true traditional regency form (Georgette Heyer would be so incredibly proud!) I couldn't stop reading. And I felt so satisfied in the end. My mouth hurt from smiling.
If you love traditional Heyeresque regency romances, you'll ADORE this one! This one is not steamy, and it’s not supposed to be! It’s about the plot and the fun antics of the cast, and I really appreciated how easy it was to escape into this book and laugh and smile!
Thank you @suzanne.allain for another lovely book!! And thank you @berkleyromance for the ARC!
Content:
- A few chaste kisses
April 18, 2023
It felt as if someone fed Bridgerton scripts to AI then asked it to write a story just like it but with no drama.
Nothing happened. So boring. I didn’t care about any of the characters and the “romance” aspect was so lacking I wouldn’t even consider it such.
Honestly wanted to DNF it, but it was quick enough to read (painful but quick) that I just got it over with.
Nothing happened. So boring. I didn’t care about any of the characters and the “romance” aspect was so lacking I wouldn’t even consider it such.
Honestly wanted to DNF it, but it was quick enough to read (painful but quick) that I just got it over with.
September 1, 2023
This was just the book to get me out of a reading slump! It was fun and lighthearted, but also contained that little something that makes a book memorable. Any complaint I might come up with would just be nitpicky. I hope to read more of this author's books.
May 24, 2022
Bueno, ahora empieza la tela al fin. Aunque echo de menos saber más de Sir Edmund.
February 11, 2022
Cute historical romance with a spinster matchmaker who might not be entirely on the shelf.
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