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Dollar Duchesses #1
Jausmus pažadinęs valsas
Serui Nikolui Deniui žūtbūt reikia rasti guvernantę, kuri pasirūpintų jo pašėlusiais sūnėnais ir dukterėčiomis. Vikaro duktė Merė Smit iš pirmo žvilgsnio atrodo puikiai tiksianti šiam darbui. Tačiau gana greitai Nikolas yra priverstas pažvelgti į Merę kitomis akimis. Kukli guvernantė pasirodo esanti graži ir gyvybinga moteris, turinti apie viską erzinamai tvirtą nuomonę!
Pasisukęs su Mere valso žingsneliu, Nikolas supranta, kad pakliuvo į bėdą. Tarp jų kibirkščiuoja aistra, bet panelė Merė – tikra jo įsivaizduojamos tobulos žmonos priešingybė!
Pasisukęs su Mere valso žingsneliu, Nikolas supranta, kad pakliuvo į bėdą. Tarp jų kibirkščiuoja aistra, bet panelė Merė – tikra jo įsivaizduojamos tobulos žmonos priešingybė!
320 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2021
24 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Catherine Tinley
60 books91 followersCatherine Tinley writes witty, heartwarming Regency love stories for Harlequin Mills & Boon. She has loved reading and writing since childhood, and has a particular fondness for love, romance, and happy endings.
After a career encompassing speech & language therapy, Sure Start, maternity campaigning and being President of a charity, she now manages a maternity hospital. She lives in Ireland with her husband, children, and dog and can be reached at www.catherinetinley.com, as well as facebook.com/CatherineTinleyWriter and @CatherineTinley on twitter.
After a career encompassing speech & language therapy, Sure Start, maternity campaigning and being President of a charity, she now manages a maternity hospital. She lives in Ireland with her husband, children, and dog and can be reached at www.catherinetinley.com, as well as facebook.com/CatherineTinleyWriter and @CatherineTinley on twitter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 7, 2023
Labai smagi romantiška istorija su detektyvo prieskoniu. Lengvai skaitėsi knyga.
January 13, 2021
Miss Mary Smith has to find a job when she finds out her father was brought to the gaol and her school turns her away. By a stroke of luck she finds a job as Governess for Sir Nicholas Denny at Stiffkey Hall near the prison where his father was kept. She tries to be the best governess, to keep her thoughts for herself in order to keep her job but at times it's difficult to do and her real personality shows.
Sir Nicholas loves his quiet life in country with the company of his secretary and books. When his sister and her offsprings announce their coming for a few months he decides to keep her busy planning some social events and he hires some more needed employees.
Nicholas is intrigued by the new Governess, she is beautiful and has a good mind but he tries to refrain his instict to pursue her because she is his employee and he is a baronet.
Will a relationship between them completely exclided? Will Mary be able to keep her job and to save his father from prison?
This is my first book by the Catherine Tinley and I really enjoyed it, there is a good flow throughout the book that held my attention, the characters are well depicted with unique traits at time a little shocking.
Needless to say my favourite character is Mary, she is witty, outspoken and unapologetic to be herself, it is hard to not root for her.
Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.
January 9, 2021
Maybe 3.5 stars
After years of being raised solely by her studious father, Vicar Smith, and being encouraged to speak her mind, he decides that Mary needs a more formal ladies’ education and sends her off to the Plumpton Academy for Young Ladies. Mary is miserable there but agrees to stay for a year to make her father happy. But she has only been there for 3 months when she gets the terrible news that her father has been arrested for treason! She is promptly turned out of school and needs to find a way to get to Norfolk where her father is being held. In a rare show of kindness, the headmistress recommends Mary to Mrs. Gray’s employment agency and as luck would have it, Mrs. Gray has a temporary governess position available in Norfolk, very close to the Brightwell prison where her father is being held. She offers Mary the position but warns her to remember that her behavior reflects on the agency and that she must keep her opinions to herself.
Sir Nicholas Denny is preparing for an invasion, his sister is coming to Stiffkey Hall for a long visit and is bringing her five unruly children. Nicholas loves his family, but as a bachelor, he is unused to the noise children generate and as a scholar, he desires peace and quiet, so in an effort to keep things as normal as possible, he instructs his secretary to hire additional help, including a governess. He is not prepared for his reaction to Mary, he is immediately attracted to her, but is a bit disappointed that she is so demure and reserved.
For her part, Mary struggles to control herself and to conform to her new lower station in life. She doesn’t tell anyone about her father, but wonders if she can trust Sir Nicholas with the truth. Slowly Nicholas is able to bring the real Mary out of hiding, but this just ends up causing him more grief when she speaks her mind about him and makes him examine his life and what possible place she could have in it. After Nicholas has a rather nasty confrontation with his sister’s governess, everything goes wrong for Mary and she loses her position and leaves. Nicholas is beside himself when he learns she is gone –can he find her and tell her his true feelings or is it too late for him?
This was an interesting story; it is definitely not your run-of-the-mill historical romance and Mary is certainly not your average heroine. While the writing was good, the story did drag a bit in the middle and the ending was a bit of a mad dash to the finish. Overall, it was a good read, different and out of the ordinary. I don’t know if I would call Mary “outspoken” as much as I would say she is quick to judge and condemn and doesn’t always think before she speaks, she is, however, usually sorry for her words and is not above asking for forgiveness. The romance in the story is very subdued and the love scenes are nothing more than a couple of kisses. So, if you are looking for something with no steam that is a bit off of the norm – this book is for you!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher.*
After years of being raised solely by her studious father, Vicar Smith, and being encouraged to speak her mind, he decides that Mary needs a more formal ladies’ education and sends her off to the Plumpton Academy for Young Ladies. Mary is miserable there but agrees to stay for a year to make her father happy. But she has only been there for 3 months when she gets the terrible news that her father has been arrested for treason! She is promptly turned out of school and needs to find a way to get to Norfolk where her father is being held. In a rare show of kindness, the headmistress recommends Mary to Mrs. Gray’s employment agency and as luck would have it, Mrs. Gray has a temporary governess position available in Norfolk, very close to the Brightwell prison where her father is being held. She offers Mary the position but warns her to remember that her behavior reflects on the agency and that she must keep her opinions to herself.
Sir Nicholas Denny is preparing for an invasion, his sister is coming to Stiffkey Hall for a long visit and is bringing her five unruly children. Nicholas loves his family, but as a bachelor, he is unused to the noise children generate and as a scholar, he desires peace and quiet, so in an effort to keep things as normal as possible, he instructs his secretary to hire additional help, including a governess. He is not prepared for his reaction to Mary, he is immediately attracted to her, but is a bit disappointed that she is so demure and reserved.
For her part, Mary struggles to control herself and to conform to her new lower station in life. She doesn’t tell anyone about her father, but wonders if she can trust Sir Nicholas with the truth. Slowly Nicholas is able to bring the real Mary out of hiding, but this just ends up causing him more grief when she speaks her mind about him and makes him examine his life and what possible place she could have in it. After Nicholas has a rather nasty confrontation with his sister’s governess, everything goes wrong for Mary and she loses her position and leaves. Nicholas is beside himself when he learns she is gone –can he find her and tell her his true feelings or is it too late for him?
This was an interesting story; it is definitely not your run-of-the-mill historical romance and Mary is certainly not your average heroine. While the writing was good, the story did drag a bit in the middle and the ending was a bit of a mad dash to the finish. Overall, it was a good read, different and out of the ordinary. I don’t know if I would call Mary “outspoken” as much as I would say she is quick to judge and condemn and doesn’t always think before she speaks, she is, however, usually sorry for her words and is not above asking for forgiveness. The romance in the story is very subdued and the love scenes are nothing more than a couple of kisses. So, if you are looking for something with no steam that is a bit off of the norm – this book is for you!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher.*
January 11, 2021
I no longer know I'm always surprised by being surprised when reading a historical romance. The authors in the genre never stop amaze me with their ideas and the characters the build and introduce to us. Catherine Tinley is one of those authors. Do I love her books? Yes, I do. Did I love this book? Of course!
Mary and Nicholas. Beautiful names. Fantastic character. They were well written. Mary was a very good character that made me cheer for her, plus she's just amazing, smart and full of determination. Nicholas... What can I say? The men in historical romances always end up wining my heart, and Catherine knows how to do that with each book she writes.
I loved the fun interactions between the characters. I loved the way their relationship was built and the development of their feelings for one another during the storyline. Plus, there were a couple of funny moments in the mix, as well as some sigh provoking ones.
I don't want to talk a lot about the plot because I don't want to spoil anything. I just want to let you know that it had a good pace, a good balance of scenes and the tone of the narrative. It was a good escape for a winter stay at out.
Overall, I absolutely loved it. Who doesn't love strong main characters?
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Catherine Tinley for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
Mary and Nicholas. Beautiful names. Fantastic character. They were well written. Mary was a very good character that made me cheer for her, plus she's just amazing, smart and full of determination. Nicholas... What can I say? The men in historical romances always end up wining my heart, and Catherine knows how to do that with each book she writes.
I loved the fun interactions between the characters. I loved the way their relationship was built and the development of their feelings for one another during the storyline. Plus, there were a couple of funny moments in the mix, as well as some sigh provoking ones.
I don't want to talk a lot about the plot because I don't want to spoil anything. I just want to let you know that it had a good pace, a good balance of scenes and the tone of the narrative. It was a good escape for a winter stay at out.
Overall, I absolutely loved it. Who doesn't love strong main characters?
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Catherine Tinley for the eCopy of this book and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
January 7, 2021
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
When Mary Smith, the daughter of a country vicar, learns that her father has been arrested on charges of treason, and she is about to be kicked out of her school, she takes a position as a governess - with no experience - at Sir Nicholas Denny's home, to help care for his nieces and nephews. Close to her father's parish, she is glad to be unrecognised as she works to try and exonerate her father, but her work with Sir Nicholas' family soon takes over. She has five charges to look after, with the overseeing eye of their elderly governess, Miss Cushing, and the more time she spends with both the children, and their somewhat intimidating uncle, she wishes she could be simply Miss Mary Smith again, and not the governess who can't hold her tongue.
I found this to be such a quick read. From meeting Mary on page one, to her happily ever after on the final pages, I was hooked, and just appreciated her character so much. She was one of the oldest at her school, as her widowed father had taught her himself, until she turned 20, and her felt she should prepare to be out in society properly, and to marry. She was opinionated, and didn't think that just because she was a woman, that she shouldn't speak up about things she was passionate about. This got her in trouble, regularly, and she knew that she would need to be more demure when working as a governess, lest she be turfed out before she can help her father. She's caring to the children under her care, especially shy Beatrice, and will do whatever she can to help them flourish, even if it's not quite what Miss Cushing thinks is appropriate. With Nicholas, they don't really connect at first meeting, as they are both holding part of themselves back, but I liked how their burgeoning friendship developed into more. The inevitable angst and temporary separation of the two I wasn't the biggest fan of, but all in all, I liked the ending, and thought it was perfect for the couple. An enjoyable Regency read.
When Mary Smith, the daughter of a country vicar, learns that her father has been arrested on charges of treason, and she is about to be kicked out of her school, she takes a position as a governess - with no experience - at Sir Nicholas Denny's home, to help care for his nieces and nephews. Close to her father's parish, she is glad to be unrecognised as she works to try and exonerate her father, but her work with Sir Nicholas' family soon takes over. She has five charges to look after, with the overseeing eye of their elderly governess, Miss Cushing, and the more time she spends with both the children, and their somewhat intimidating uncle, she wishes she could be simply Miss Mary Smith again, and not the governess who can't hold her tongue.
I found this to be such a quick read. From meeting Mary on page one, to her happily ever after on the final pages, I was hooked, and just appreciated her character so much. She was one of the oldest at her school, as her widowed father had taught her himself, until she turned 20, and her felt she should prepare to be out in society properly, and to marry. She was opinionated, and didn't think that just because she was a woman, that she shouldn't speak up about things she was passionate about. This got her in trouble, regularly, and she knew that she would need to be more demure when working as a governess, lest she be turfed out before she can help her father. She's caring to the children under her care, especially shy Beatrice, and will do whatever she can to help them flourish, even if it's not quite what Miss Cushing thinks is appropriate. With Nicholas, they don't really connect at first meeting, as they are both holding part of themselves back, but I liked how their burgeoning friendship developed into more. The inevitable angst and temporary separation of the two I wasn't the biggest fan of, but all in all, I liked the ending, and thought it was perfect for the couple. An enjoyable Regency read.
January 12, 2021
My first full length Catherine Tinley and I loved it.
Mary and Nicholas had me obsessed! A blinkered Baronet and a gusty Governess (guess who’s been hitting up the thesaurus, lol!) get schooled in matters of the heart.
Appearances can be deceiving, as our Miss Smith can attest. There is drama, intrigue, suspense and simmering passions aplenty in a tale that had me smiling, laughing, growling (no joke – my grr is strong!) and swooning.
Yup, *nods* I went there. I mentioned The Swoon. At this point I’d like to say I apologise but I’d be fibbing because I give to you two words – palm kisses. Who knew? *shrugs* Hence, the very justified swoonage (is that a word?).
I’m going to tread carefully for fear of giving anything away, but needless to say Mary’s arrival at Stiffkey Hall breathes some much-needed life back into the staid household and its master despite his initial reservations. A master who needs to be challenged on every level *coughs*.
I’m fascinated with the Regency era and the author’s writing captured the period perfectly for me. Including, encapsulating the conventions of the time and how hard it was for women to be seen as more than their expected roles.
Let’s hear it for headstrong women!
*sighs*
It’s hard to say goodbye to some characters, isn’t it?
I look forward to my next CT read.
Mary and Nicholas had me obsessed! A blinkered Baronet and a gusty Governess (guess who’s been hitting up the thesaurus, lol!) get schooled in matters of the heart.
Appearances can be deceiving, as our Miss Smith can attest. There is drama, intrigue, suspense and simmering passions aplenty in a tale that had me smiling, laughing, growling (no joke – my grr is strong!) and swooning.
Yup, *nods* I went there. I mentioned The Swoon. At this point I’d like to say I apologise but I’d be fibbing because I give to you two words – palm kisses. Who knew? *shrugs* Hence, the very justified swoonage (is that a word?).
I’m going to tread carefully for fear of giving anything away, but needless to say Mary’s arrival at Stiffkey Hall breathes some much-needed life back into the staid household and its master despite his initial reservations. A master who needs to be challenged on every level *coughs*.
I’m fascinated with the Regency era and the author’s writing captured the period perfectly for me. Including, encapsulating the conventions of the time and how hard it was for women to be seen as more than their expected roles.
Let’s hear it for headstrong women!
*sighs*
It’s hard to say goodbye to some characters, isn’t it?
I look forward to my next CT read.
December 18, 2020
Such honest, vibrant storytelling packed with emotion. I stayed up way past my bedtime to finish this passionate regency governess tale and I'm still thinking of these characters and their journey days later. Both the hero and heroine were so well rounded and I fell more and more in love with them with every scene that passed. I received this copy in exchange for an honest review but I would have bought it anyway as I regularly devour the historicals line and this cover and title really caught my eye.
Five, swooning stars.
Five, swooning stars.
October 13, 2022
Norėjosi meilės romano, kurio veiksmas vyksta senesniais laikais, ir pasitaikė šitas. Likau patenkinta, kad galėjau taip įsitraukti į istoriją, kad buvo sunku atsiplėšti, ir pasipildyti romantiškomis istorijomis.
January 13, 2021
When her father is arrested for a crime he didn’t commit, Mary Smith is kicked out of the finishing school she is attending with nowhere to go. Desperate to get back to her father in Norfolk and help him prove his innocence, Mary has no choice but to accept an offer of employment; assistant governess to the nieces and nephews of Sir Nicholas Denny. Of course, she can’t admit to her employer her ulterior motives - having a name like Mary Smith is obviously a great help in not being connected to her father locked up in jail! With little experience as a governess, she manages to get along by empathising with the children and listening to them, something neither their mother nor their present governess actually seem to do. At the same time she finds herself reluctantly attracted to Nicholas, a clever and kind man who nevertheless considers little outside his own comforts… until Mary comes along and forces him to confront some of his own preconceptions.
This is an interestingly different historical romance, because in a lot of ways the heroine isn’t really the one who undertakes a character growth arc here. Yes, Mary falls in love, but she’s still very much the same in essentials at the end of the book as she is at the start. It’s Nicholas who has to grow and change in order to become worthy of her, and it’s not the standard rake-reformed-by-love arc heroes often get in Regency historicals. Nicholas is a decent man, but he’s an utterly privileged aristocrat who has really never had his eyes opened to how everyone not at his social and wealth level have to navigate the world. Of course, there’s still the problem of a massive secret Mary is concealing which eventually has to come out, but by the end of the book, Nicholas has enough faith in Mary’s integrity to step up for her when she needs him.
I did feel like the final confrontation was somewhat skipped over, as it actually happened off-page and Mary didn’t get to even see the traitors being apprehended, was only told about it after the fact. It had been built up enough that I thought she deserved to actually be there; though it all hung together logically, it felt a bit rushed for my liking. It didn’t really reduce my enjoyment of the book in any significant way, however, and I’m happy to give it five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
This is an interestingly different historical romance, because in a lot of ways the heroine isn’t really the one who undertakes a character growth arc here. Yes, Mary falls in love, but she’s still very much the same in essentials at the end of the book as she is at the start. It’s Nicholas who has to grow and change in order to become worthy of her, and it’s not the standard rake-reformed-by-love arc heroes often get in Regency historicals. Nicholas is a decent man, but he’s an utterly privileged aristocrat who has really never had his eyes opened to how everyone not at his social and wealth level have to navigate the world. Of course, there’s still the problem of a massive secret Mary is concealing which eventually has to come out, but by the end of the book, Nicholas has enough faith in Mary’s integrity to step up for her when she needs him.
I did feel like the final confrontation was somewhat skipped over, as it actually happened off-page and Mary didn’t get to even see the traitors being apprehended, was only told about it after the fact. It had been built up enough that I thought she deserved to actually be there; though it all hung together logically, it felt a bit rushed for my liking. It didn’t really reduce my enjoyment of the book in any significant way, however, and I’m happy to give it five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via Rachel’s Random Resources.
January 16, 2021
Miss Mary Smith is in a predicament that forces her to deceive a man who has become her friend and more. I felt for her when she is treated unkindly by an imperious mother and her jealous elderly governess. After all, Mary is an opinionated young woman who has to swallow her words in order to keep her job and carry out her plan to help her father.
Sir Nicholas Denny hired another governess to ensure the visit from his sister and her unruly children would be more tolerable. Instead, it caused more turmoil. Both with the women in his life and with his emotions. Miss Smith is the best of both worlds...beautiful and smart, but she is a servant and he cannot follow through with his attraction. But what is she hiding?
It is good to see a strong and determined heroine who is not afraid to express her opinion in a time where women were viewed as uneducated ninnies. Her faultless pursuit of proving her father's innocence is admirable despite her dangerous dilemma of having nowhere to go if she lost her job. I also thought it very brave or foolish of her when she expresses her disappointment in Nicholas' classicism and superiority to his servants and his disdain for his family. It's this honesty from Mary that results in a change in Nicholas as he heeds Mary's words and becomes a man worthy of her,
I recommend this delightful historical romance with a mystery and a HEA. The characters are well-developed and interesting and the plot is compelling.
Thank you to Ms. Tinley for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no exception of a positive review.
Sir Nicholas Denny hired another governess to ensure the visit from his sister and her unruly children would be more tolerable. Instead, it caused more turmoil. Both with the women in his life and with his emotions. Miss Smith is the best of both worlds...beautiful and smart, but she is a servant and he cannot follow through with his attraction. But what is she hiding?
It is good to see a strong and determined heroine who is not afraid to express her opinion in a time where women were viewed as uneducated ninnies. Her faultless pursuit of proving her father's innocence is admirable despite her dangerous dilemma of having nowhere to go if she lost her job. I also thought it very brave or foolish of her when she expresses her disappointment in Nicholas' classicism and superiority to his servants and his disdain for his family. It's this honesty from Mary that results in a change in Nicholas as he heeds Mary's words and becomes a man worthy of her,
I recommend this delightful historical romance with a mystery and a HEA. The characters are well-developed and interesting and the plot is compelling.
Thank you to Ms. Tinley for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no exception of a positive review.
January 22, 2021
This was a darling read filled with characters to remember, circumstances better forgotten, and an ever after you won't soon forget. If you don't fall in love with Mary, I couldn't possibly fathom what the devil is wrong with you because she is so good of heart, so well meaning, so...everything....it's a wonder Sir Nicholas doesn't fall at her feet and declare his love the moment he lays eyes upon her. My heart burst with pride when she helped pull Beatrice out of her shell a bit by having her be understood and heard. She even told a certain Baronet what's what...and lived to tell the tale...and what's more, become a guest of the household...but those circumstances are for you to discover.
Sir Nicholas wasn't hard on the heart either. Despite his "above thee" attitude, you can sense beneath it all beats a heart most uncommon for the age AND his gender. He appreciates the finer things in life...and that includes a certain Governess that has darkened his door, and not merely for her beauty! No, he is appreciative of her mind, of her opinions, of the fact that she will call him out, but only because she knows he can be better.
If you're not simply there for the romance of it all though, there is also the plot gathering traitors, secret messages, and prisoners who may or may not be guilty that Mary is downright dedicated to having freed. I rather adored my time between the pages, and quite rightly believe that you too will feel the same!
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
Sir Nicholas wasn't hard on the heart either. Despite his "above thee" attitude, you can sense beneath it all beats a heart most uncommon for the age AND his gender. He appreciates the finer things in life...and that includes a certain Governess that has darkened his door, and not merely for her beauty! No, he is appreciative of her mind, of her opinions, of the fact that she will call him out, but only because she knows he can be better.
If you're not simply there for the romance of it all though, there is also the plot gathering traitors, secret messages, and prisoners who may or may not be guilty that Mary is downright dedicated to having freed. I rather adored my time between the pages, and quite rightly believe that you too will feel the same!
**ecopy received for review; opinions are my own
January 9, 2021
About the Book: Mary Smith is 20 years old and the daughter of a vicar. She isn’t a big hit at the Plumpton Academy for Young Girls because: A. She is too old to be there and B. She states her mind on many subjects including how a wife should act. Mary is trying to be agreeable to please her beloved father that sent her there.
Unfortunately, Mary’s father is jailed for treason. This makes Miss Plumpton happy as Mary is forced to leave school and get a job.
Mary gets a job as a governess for Sir Nicholas’s sister’s children who are all staying for two months at his house in Stiffkey Hall (I love that name). Stiffkey Hall is near the prison where her dad is being kept so she is able to go see him.
Mary knows she must let her independent nature stay hidden and not take a chance that she gets let go from this job.
Sir Nicholas sees something in Mary and the more time they spend together the fonder they both grow. But will Sir Nicholas believe in Mary enough to help her prove her father is innocent of treason?
My thoughts: I forget how much I enjoy the dialogue in regency romances and dialogue was my favorite part of the book!
My top 3 other favorites parts:
1. The characters in this story were wonderfully written-both the main and and secondary characters. I seem to always love the secondary characters and I love Nicholas’s right hand man, Bramber.
2. I love the interactions between Mary and her charges. An arithmetic quest to make learning fun for the younger kids and a connection with Beatrice, one of the older girls,to give her some much needed self-confidence since Mary sees some of herself in Beatrice.
3. The scene when Nicholas helps quell Mary’s fear of riding horses.. funny and sweet at the same time!
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Unfortunately, Mary’s father is jailed for treason. This makes Miss Plumpton happy as Mary is forced to leave school and get a job.
Mary gets a job as a governess for Sir Nicholas’s sister’s children who are all staying for two months at his house in Stiffkey Hall (I love that name). Stiffkey Hall is near the prison where her dad is being kept so she is able to go see him.
Mary knows she must let her independent nature stay hidden and not take a chance that she gets let go from this job.
Sir Nicholas sees something in Mary and the more time they spend together the fonder they both grow. But will Sir Nicholas believe in Mary enough to help her prove her father is innocent of treason?
My thoughts: I forget how much I enjoy the dialogue in regency romances and dialogue was my favorite part of the book!
My top 3 other favorites parts:
1. The characters in this story were wonderfully written-both the main and and secondary characters. I seem to always love the secondary characters and I love Nicholas’s right hand man, Bramber.
2. I love the interactions between Mary and her charges. An arithmetic quest to make learning fun for the younger kids and a connection with Beatrice, one of the older girls,to give her some much needed self-confidence since Mary sees some of herself in Beatrice.
3. The scene when Nicholas helps quell Mary’s fear of riding horses.. funny and sweet at the same time!
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
January 11, 2021
This book gives a different view of early nineteenth-century society which explores the divide between the rich and their servants. Mary is an independent young woman, unfashionably educated, intelligent and outspoken. Receiving some disturbing news of her father, a Norfolk vicar she ingeniously finds a way to be close to him to help. Sir Nicholas Kenney is dreading the annual visit from his sister, and family hiring additional staff essential, especially a governess.
Mary and Nicholas' romance is gentle with the attraction building insidiously. Mary's outspoken intelligent nature appeals to Nicholas despite the forbidden nature of their circumstances. This story explores the vulnerability of servants to those who pay their wages.
There's both mystery and romance in this story with relatable characters, witty dialogue and a happy ending.
Mary and Nicholas' romance is gentle with the attraction building insidiously. Mary's outspoken intelligent nature appeals to Nicholas despite the forbidden nature of their circumstances. This story explores the vulnerability of servants to those who pay their wages.
There's both mystery and romance in this story with relatable characters, witty dialogue and a happy ending.
January 8, 2021
I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I read this book in the run up to Christmas and then, like many, watched Bridgerton on Netflix. It was the reference to the dressmaker or Modiste that prompted me to recognise the similar era.
Outside of the outline in the synopsis, there is an interesting twist to the story as Mary seeks to clear the name of her father, wrongfully imprisoned for treason.
This book was totally absorbing, and I was fully invested in the outcome. Of course, when reading a Harlequin Mills and Boon, it is less a case of will they or won’t they and more when will they! I’m shamelessly proud to admit that I love a happy ending to a story.
Sir Nicholas is perfect as the brooding hero who feels an obligation to his family and is prepared to follow that obligation to his own happiness’s detriment. Seemingly uninterested in marriage, he believes that he must find a woman of good standing, and not look for physical or mental attraction.
Mary is book smart and determined to hold her own. Raised by her father, she is highly educated and single minded when it comes to what she wants from life. She’s certainly not ready to settle down with a husband and raise children.
The relationship between Sir Nicholas and Mary builds at a most satisfying pace and soon becomes an independent character within the story.
With a well written and researched historical drama, it is always fun to learn about bygone eras without feeling like having returned to a classroom.
I enjoyed this story and would happily recommend it.
I read this book in the run up to Christmas and then, like many, watched Bridgerton on Netflix. It was the reference to the dressmaker or Modiste that prompted me to recognise the similar era.
Outside of the outline in the synopsis, there is an interesting twist to the story as Mary seeks to clear the name of her father, wrongfully imprisoned for treason.
This book was totally absorbing, and I was fully invested in the outcome. Of course, when reading a Harlequin Mills and Boon, it is less a case of will they or won’t they and more when will they! I’m shamelessly proud to admit that I love a happy ending to a story.
Sir Nicholas is perfect as the brooding hero who feels an obligation to his family and is prepared to follow that obligation to his own happiness’s detriment. Seemingly uninterested in marriage, he believes that he must find a woman of good standing, and not look for physical or mental attraction.
Mary is book smart and determined to hold her own. Raised by her father, she is highly educated and single minded when it comes to what she wants from life. She’s certainly not ready to settle down with a husband and raise children.
The relationship between Sir Nicholas and Mary builds at a most satisfying pace and soon becomes an independent character within the story.
With a well written and researched historical drama, it is always fun to learn about bygone eras without feeling like having returned to a classroom.
I enjoyed this story and would happily recommend it.
January 17, 2021
Loved this book–un-put-downable!
Miss Mary Smith, daughter of a vicar, is a young woman with a mind of her own. She’s ahead of her times, feeling that it is her right to speak her mind. She’s raised by an indulgent, tolerant, and broad-minded father. But she shocks the rest of society with her outspoken ways.
Fate deals her a harsh blow and she finds herself working as a governess at the home of Sir Nicholas. She strikes up a friendship with the master of the house, much to the disapproval of his sister. Mary navigates the minefield of Sir Nicholas’s household while her heart is heavy with a terrible burden. It doesn’t help that she’s highly attracted to her employer!
Catherine Tinley has written an unputdownable romance that left me literally breathless. Neither Mary nor Sir Nicholas are perfect characters, and they speak and behave inappropriately (for the times) often. Mary’s thoughts about women’s rights are relevant even today, when many men think that a woman’s place is in the home and that they aren’t as smart as men.
I flew through the book–it is gripping, almost addictive. Tinley doesn’t bore you with unnecessary details, but she describes the atmosphere where it is important for the reader. You can feel the passion of Mary and Sir Nicholas, the disdain of Susan (his sister), the jealousy of Miss Cushing (the governess), and the warmth and love of the children.
It isn’t a short book at around 300 pages, but I didn’t even realize how the hours flew by as I became immersed in the book. If you like historical romances, DON’T miss this book!
(I received an e-ARC from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
Miss Mary Smith, daughter of a vicar, is a young woman with a mind of her own. She’s ahead of her times, feeling that it is her right to speak her mind. She’s raised by an indulgent, tolerant, and broad-minded father. But she shocks the rest of society with her outspoken ways.
Fate deals her a harsh blow and she finds herself working as a governess at the home of Sir Nicholas. She strikes up a friendship with the master of the house, much to the disapproval of his sister. Mary navigates the minefield of Sir Nicholas’s household while her heart is heavy with a terrible burden. It doesn’t help that she’s highly attracted to her employer!
Catherine Tinley has written an unputdownable romance that left me literally breathless. Neither Mary nor Sir Nicholas are perfect characters, and they speak and behave inappropriately (for the times) often. Mary’s thoughts about women’s rights are relevant even today, when many men think that a woman’s place is in the home and that they aren’t as smart as men.
I flew through the book–it is gripping, almost addictive. Tinley doesn’t bore you with unnecessary details, but she describes the atmosphere where it is important for the reader. You can feel the passion of Mary and Sir Nicholas, the disdain of Susan (his sister), the jealousy of Miss Cushing (the governess), and the warmth and love of the children.
It isn’t a short book at around 300 pages, but I didn’t even realize how the hours flew by as I became immersed in the book. If you like historical romances, DON’T miss this book!
(I received an e-ARC from Rachel’s Random Resources in exchange for an honest review.)
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December 28, 2020Categories
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance
Historical Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance
December 24, 2020
Catherine Tinley has written another beautiful regency romance with engaging, slightly different characters to capture your heart. Feisty Mary takes a role as governess in the household of apparently aloof and bookish Sir Nicholas and is dertermined to pretend to be demure and obedient. But that isn't something she's terribly good at. A really charming read with well rounded, interesting characters you can't help but feel for. Absolutely loved it.
March 5, 2021
A Waltz with the Outspoken Governess: An Award Winning Author
Catherine Tinley
Release Date 01/01/2021 ebook, 12/29/2020 paperback
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mill&Boon Historical
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A quiet governess…
An unruly heart
Sir Nicholas Denny is desperate to find a governess to care for his boisterous nieces and nephews. Demure vicar’s daughter Mary Smith seems ideal—at first. All too soon Nicholas discovers a different side…a beautiful, vivacious woman, even if she infuriates him with her strong opinions! When he waltzes with Mary at a party, he knows he’s in trouble—the spark between them is so tempting, but she challenges everything he thought he wanted in a wife!
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her change of life offer a much happier outcome than she expected...
This story appears as divided in two parts, first the putting in place of all the protagonists then the resolution of the background plot.
Mary in the first place should never have found herself housed in this finishing school when she is too old and opinionated, so entitled to stir others ire. Which she does in earnest. And now she is homeless, far away from her father’s protection, lost in the world, in need of a position. Luckily for her, she seems to be in the good books of fate.
And while she must temper her inclination to argue and debate, she digs her way in her temporary household. Slowly intriguing her employer and raising others’ eyebrows.
Sir Denny is quite a determined and forceful fellow, which he expresses quite loudly. So much, he scares his nieces and nephews.
He is not bad and has known nothing else. It is his way in life, with near to no friend as he considers himself too superior to other people. He does not question what other persons might think or feel.
Yet fascinated by Mary, he will find himself at the received hand of her own temper. And he does not answer well to be criticized.
Both can be quite judgmental and this flaw gives them means to hurt one another, and while it is not their wish, their pride might cost them more they expected if they do not seek an alternative.
The plot takes a different turn when Mary after some procrastinations try to find a way out for her father. This is the part I liked most. As it shows how far they have come since they meet.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some mild to hot kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and Rachel’s Random Ressources. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
Catherine Tinley
Release Date 01/01/2021 ebook, 12/29/2020 paperback
Publisher Harlequin Historical / Mill&Boon Historical
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A quiet governess…
An unruly heart
Sir Nicholas Denny is desperate to find a governess to care for his boisterous nieces and nephews. Demure vicar’s daughter Mary Smith seems ideal—at first. All too soon Nicholas discovers a different side…a beautiful, vivacious woman, even if she infuriates him with her strong opinions! When he waltzes with Mary at a party, he knows he’s in trouble—the spark between them is so tempting, but she challenges everything he thought he wanted in a wife!
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her change of life offer a much happier outcome than she expected...
This story appears as divided in two parts, first the putting in place of all the protagonists then the resolution of the background plot.
Mary in the first place should never have found herself housed in this finishing school when she is too old and opinionated, so entitled to stir others ire. Which she does in earnest. And now she is homeless, far away from her father’s protection, lost in the world, in need of a position. Luckily for her, she seems to be in the good books of fate.
And while she must temper her inclination to argue and debate, she digs her way in her temporary household. Slowly intriguing her employer and raising others’ eyebrows.
Sir Denny is quite a determined and forceful fellow, which he expresses quite loudly. So much, he scares his nieces and nephews.
He is not bad and has known nothing else. It is his way in life, with near to no friend as he considers himself too superior to other people. He does not question what other persons might think or feel.
Yet fascinated by Mary, he will find himself at the received hand of her own temper. And he does not answer well to be criticized.
Both can be quite judgmental and this flaw gives them means to hurt one another, and while it is not their wish, their pride might cost them more they expected if they do not seek an alternative.
The plot takes a different turn when Mary after some procrastinations try to find a way out for her father. This is the part I liked most. As it shows how far they have come since they meet.
4.5 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 some mild to hot kisses
I have been granted an advance copy by the author and Rachel’s Random Ressources. Here is my true and unbiased opinion.
November 14, 2020
I thought that this was a lovely story.
It was full of feelings, truth and romance.
Both main characters were strong and well developed and I loved their interaction.
This was a subtle romance that was very well written and full of hope.
It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended!
It was full of feelings, truth and romance.
Both main characters were strong and well developed and I loved their interaction.
This was a subtle romance that was very well written and full of hope.
It is 5 stars from me for this one - very highly recommended!
February 16, 2021
Set in 1810, this historical romance features a “woman with no plan to ever marry” at the age of twenty, sent to school by her loving father who has spent her childhood talking to her about books. I found this a lovely read, full of details about a difficult household situation. Moreover, Mary is a realistic, determined character who tries so hard to fit in for the sake of her father, but is compelled to address the assumptions about women being interested in books and having an opinion. Sir Nicholas is a well rounded character who is not immediately smitten by Mary; indeed thinking that she is a little dull, and is merely grateful that she is deflecting some of the difficulties of his sister’s visit. He is full of pride and somewhat unapproachable because he assumes it is his right to dominate the household, area, and especially his servants who he struggles to see as people. As is common in this sort of intelligent historical romance, it takes a woman who challenges his view of life to attract him. He has had his adventures in London, but he now feels able to merely follow obscure academic pursuits while others take the strain of life. Altogether this is an escapist read which I really enjoyed, and I was very pleased to have the opportunity to read and review this book.
The book opens with Mary getting into trouble with her teacher as she does not want to conform to expectations of ladylike behaviour. A sudden letter from her father’s housekeeper leads to Mary seeking a position near to where he is being held. Fortunately she encounters a remarkable agency with a business woman willing to take a risk on placing her in the right area. Meanwhile the very private Sir Nicholas is disturbed to hear that his sister is intending to bring her five children for an extended stay at his house. Adopting the policy of employing a full set of servants to distract them, Mary arrives with his Secretary, Bramber, to be an additional governess. She soon discovers that Nicholas’ sister, Mrs Susan Fenhurst, has an elderly governess who is desperate not to be replaced by a younger, more capable woman, despite the fact that she can no longer cope with the boisterous children. Keenly aware that she must retain her employment at the Hall in order to help her father, she tries to teach the children without openly challenging anyone. The second daughter, Beatrice, is actually attracted by more scholarly material, and it is in revealing this that compels Mary to announce that women can be clever “I believe it to be a myth when people say that women’s brains are less capable than men’s”. It is this sort of outburst that arouses Nicholas to take notice of the young woman in his household, and that notice soon goes beyond an admiration for her bravery.
I found this a really engaging read, with Nicholas a far from perfect hero, but who can be persuaded to go beyond humourous asides to actually take action. The romance element is well handled, and would not offend any delicate sensibilities. Mary is an interesting character, of necessity attractive, but confident in her beliefs. This is an intelligent, sometimes funny, always interesting historical romance, and is to be recommended to all those who enjoy this genre.
The book opens with Mary getting into trouble with her teacher as she does not want to conform to expectations of ladylike behaviour. A sudden letter from her father’s housekeeper leads to Mary seeking a position near to where he is being held. Fortunately she encounters a remarkable agency with a business woman willing to take a risk on placing her in the right area. Meanwhile the very private Sir Nicholas is disturbed to hear that his sister is intending to bring her five children for an extended stay at his house. Adopting the policy of employing a full set of servants to distract them, Mary arrives with his Secretary, Bramber, to be an additional governess. She soon discovers that Nicholas’ sister, Mrs Susan Fenhurst, has an elderly governess who is desperate not to be replaced by a younger, more capable woman, despite the fact that she can no longer cope with the boisterous children. Keenly aware that she must retain her employment at the Hall in order to help her father, she tries to teach the children without openly challenging anyone. The second daughter, Beatrice, is actually attracted by more scholarly material, and it is in revealing this that compels Mary to announce that women can be clever “I believe it to be a myth when people say that women’s brains are less capable than men’s”. It is this sort of outburst that arouses Nicholas to take notice of the young woman in his household, and that notice soon goes beyond an admiration for her bravery.
I found this a really engaging read, with Nicholas a far from perfect hero, but who can be persuaded to go beyond humourous asides to actually take action. The romance element is well handled, and would not offend any delicate sensibilities. Mary is an interesting character, of necessity attractive, but confident in her beliefs. This is an intelligent, sometimes funny, always interesting historical romance, and is to be recommended to all those who enjoy this genre.
January 25, 2021
This is the story of Sir Nicholas and Mary, it is told over 29 Chapters as well as an Epilogue. It is the first book in a series called Dollar Duchesses and if the rest is anything like this one, then this reader has a new series to look out for.
One of the best things about this book is not only the character interactions but also Mary as a character. Now Mary is a very strong character who knows her own mind, she also seems to be a character who was born in the wrong time. This aspect of the character makes the book and the story all the more interesting. However at the same time I feel like Mary is also naïve but that could be because she has very little experience with the opposite sex.
This book is filled with intriguing moments and simmering passion, that readers will adore. Everything that makes up this book readers will enjoy. From the character interactions, especially the interactions between the main characters Sir Nicholas and Mary.
Readers will realise very quickly that this book is very hard to put down. Once they have started they will not want to stop until the find out the ending and have read every single word. Not only that the reader will be so engrossed in the story that they will not notice how many chapters are passing.
One of the best things about this book is not only the character interactions but also Mary as a character. Now Mary is a very strong character who knows her own mind, she also seems to be a character who was born in the wrong time. This aspect of the character makes the book and the story all the more interesting. However at the same time I feel like Mary is also naïve but that could be because she has very little experience with the opposite sex.
This book is filled with intriguing moments and simmering passion, that readers will adore. Everything that makes up this book readers will enjoy. From the character interactions, especially the interactions between the main characters Sir Nicholas and Mary.
Readers will realise very quickly that this book is very hard to put down. Once they have started they will not want to stop until the find out the ending and have read every single word. Not only that the reader will be so engrossed in the story that they will not notice how many chapters are passing.
January 15, 2021
This was my first Harlequin Historical romance and I was not disappointed. This was a brilliant introduction to a genre that I have been considering for a while but was unsure where to start.
The main character of the book is Mary Smith, a Vicar’s daughter and the first time we meet Mary she is at the Plumpton Academy for Young Ladies. This is a place that clearly clashes with Mary’s personality. It’s easy to see from the outset that Mary is very forward thinking and her thoughts and beliefs are different from those around her. Mary is very free spirited and outspoken. She believes that women should be able to take part in society and speak their minds; however to those around her she is considered opinionated and unruly. Then Mary’s circumstances change and her father ends up in some difficulty so she has to take up a new role as a governess to Sir Nicholas Denny’s nephews and nieces. In order to take on the role Mary has to tone down who she really is; from outspoken to agreeable which means biting her tongue on several occasions. When Sir Nicholas meets Mary he initially thinks she is dull, there’s nothing about her that stands out to him and she has no opinions or a mind of her own. As Sir Nicholas gets to know Mary he realises what her true nature is, that she is intelligent, spirited and different from other women he’s met. The more he speaks to her he starts to see Mary’s mask slip and catches glimpses of who Mary really is.
I really loved this book. It was like being whisked back to the 1800s with every turn of the page. I am a big fan of the classics; Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Sense and Sensibility so this was the perfect read for me. It also fitted perfectly into that genre seamlessly. It isn’t just a romance novel it also had another storyline running through it involving Mary’s father which I thought was actually really fascinating and very original. The characters were well written as was the storyline. It was clear to see sparks between Mary and Sir Nicholas from their very first encounter even if it did take them a little while to figure it out for themselves. This is the first book that I've read by the author and I was really impressed so I'll definitely be looking into reading some other books by the same author. If like me you've never read a Harlequin Historical novel before and would like to then I would recommend that you start with this one.
I can only describe the book as pocket sized which I really liked. It made the book different and perfect for an on the go read as it fits perfectly in a bag and takes up little space.
If you like reading books set in the 1800s with a touch of romance, drama and conspiracy I would highly recommend this book.
I received a gifted copy of this book for an honest review.
The main character of the book is Mary Smith, a Vicar’s daughter and the first time we meet Mary she is at the Plumpton Academy for Young Ladies. This is a place that clearly clashes with Mary’s personality. It’s easy to see from the outset that Mary is very forward thinking and her thoughts and beliefs are different from those around her. Mary is very free spirited and outspoken. She believes that women should be able to take part in society and speak their minds; however to those around her she is considered opinionated and unruly. Then Mary’s circumstances change and her father ends up in some difficulty so she has to take up a new role as a governess to Sir Nicholas Denny’s nephews and nieces. In order to take on the role Mary has to tone down who she really is; from outspoken to agreeable which means biting her tongue on several occasions. When Sir Nicholas meets Mary he initially thinks she is dull, there’s nothing about her that stands out to him and she has no opinions or a mind of her own. As Sir Nicholas gets to know Mary he realises what her true nature is, that she is intelligent, spirited and different from other women he’s met. The more he speaks to her he starts to see Mary’s mask slip and catches glimpses of who Mary really is.
I really loved this book. It was like being whisked back to the 1800s with every turn of the page. I am a big fan of the classics; Pride and Prejudice, Jane Eyre, Wuthering Heights, Sense and Sensibility so this was the perfect read for me. It also fitted perfectly into that genre seamlessly. It isn’t just a romance novel it also had another storyline running through it involving Mary’s father which I thought was actually really fascinating and very original. The characters were well written as was the storyline. It was clear to see sparks between Mary and Sir Nicholas from their very first encounter even if it did take them a little while to figure it out for themselves. This is the first book that I've read by the author and I was really impressed so I'll definitely be looking into reading some other books by the same author. If like me you've never read a Harlequin Historical novel before and would like to then I would recommend that you start with this one.
I can only describe the book as pocket sized which I really liked. It made the book different and perfect for an on the go read as it fits perfectly in a bag and takes up little space.
If you like reading books set in the 1800s with a touch of romance, drama and conspiracy I would highly recommend this book.
I received a gifted copy of this book for an honest review.
January 13, 2021
Miss Smith is the oldest girl at her school. She doesn't fit in, she's curious about the world, and questions her place within it. Her papa is unwell, and unable to pay further fees for her schooling, Miss Smith, Mary, starts to look for a way to make an income.
Mary finally catches a break, she is offered the role of governess for the nieces and nephews of the respected Sir Nicholas Denny over in his estate in Norfolk.
Mary tries hard not to let her true self show. People have tended not to take to her outspoken ways. But its only so long one can keep up the act. Nicholas very quickly sees through to Mary's true identity- but it is far from dislike he sees.
I enjoyed reading something set in a time so long ago. It really captures the difference in how a woman would live her life these days, compared to the 1800s.
The descriptions of the fashion they all wore really interested me, and I could visualise such grande scenes.
A great flow to the writing, old fashioned in the best way.
Im glad we are more like Miss Smith these days and say exactly what we want to say and more importantly, be respected for it.
Mary finally catches a break, she is offered the role of governess for the nieces and nephews of the respected Sir Nicholas Denny over in his estate in Norfolk.
Mary tries hard not to let her true self show. People have tended not to take to her outspoken ways. But its only so long one can keep up the act. Nicholas very quickly sees through to Mary's true identity- but it is far from dislike he sees.
I enjoyed reading something set in a time so long ago. It really captures the difference in how a woman would live her life these days, compared to the 1800s.
The descriptions of the fashion they all wore really interested me, and I could visualise such grande scenes.
A great flow to the writing, old fashioned in the best way.
Im glad we are more like Miss Smith these days and say exactly what we want to say and more importantly, be respected for it.
April 20, 2022
I read this because it won the RNA Historical Romance of 2021. I'm puzzled why though. Not to say it's a poor book. It ticks along nicely. Mary Smith is the Outspoken Governess and there's good plotting to find a reason why she ends up in Sir Nicholas' house and needing to keep her mouth shut: got to keep this job near Norwich where her clergyman father has inexplicably been arrested as a traitor to the crown. She's a good, feisty heroine with plenty of agency.
Sir Nicholas is a bit dreary. As Mary observes, he's allowed himself to retreat to his family Hall and translate Virgil when his skills could be put to better purposes.
It's a Mills&Boon novel and follows the genre conventions.
So why my puzzlement about winning the prize? Firstly, I've read other M&B historicals with much more pizazz, e.g. The medieval ones written by the author who's name escapes me just now, but I've done reviews on my feed. So this is not me being snobby about M&Bs per se.
But surely there were historical romances published during 2021 which were pushing the boundaries more than this? This felt a bit old-fashioned, a bit cautious.
Sir Nicholas is a bit dreary. As Mary observes, he's allowed himself to retreat to his family Hall and translate Virgil when his skills could be put to better purposes.
It's a Mills&Boon novel and follows the genre conventions.
So why my puzzlement about winning the prize? Firstly, I've read other M&B historicals with much more pizazz, e.g. The medieval ones written by the author who's name escapes me just now, but I've done reviews on my feed. So this is not me being snobby about M&Bs per se.
But surely there were historical romances published during 2021 which were pushing the boundaries more than this? This felt a bit old-fashioned, a bit cautious.
July 17, 2021
Sir Nicholas Denny is determined to have a quieter spring than usual, so he puts some plans in place. Hire some extra people, have some events and hopefully his sister and her children will be sufficiently distracted for him to be able to have more time to himself than usual.
Mary Smith's father has been accused of treason and her finishing school takes no time in putting her out. She goes to an employmet agency and they think she might be a good fit for the job of assistant governess. It's close to her father's living and she might be able to help.
When Sir Nicholas meets Mary he thinks that she's not much to think about but his opinion changes over time and she's growing on him. She's making him think about things and they're dealing with different issues.
I enjoyed it, bad decisions book club book. There were a few things that niggled a little but overall it was a fun diverting read.
Mary Smith's father has been accused of treason and her finishing school takes no time in putting her out. She goes to an employmet agency and they think she might be a good fit for the job of assistant governess. It's close to her father's living and she might be able to help.
When Sir Nicholas meets Mary he thinks that she's not much to think about but his opinion changes over time and she's growing on him. She's making him think about things and they're dealing with different issues.
I enjoyed it, bad decisions book club book. There were a few things that niggled a little but overall it was a fun diverting read.
July 24, 2021
A Slow Burn / Governess Trope Must Have!
Mary definitely isn't your typical Governess ina sense that she didn't even start out as one. Despite being very proud of her knowledge and education while being tols to sit and look pretty, she becomes a Governess by chance. While attempting to keep her position she really tries to hide her spirit and opinions.
But obviously, Sir Nicholas slowly has her showing her true self while getting to know each other, falling in love, and tackling Mary's main obstacles.
Here's what I like. Sir Nicholas is far from perfect.
Here's what I love. Mary knows this and at some point in confrontation she pours that realisation on him like a rainshower. And boooooooy was that a good scene.
With Catherine Tinley you always have the satisfaction of having the character you dislike (not the mains of course we enver hate those two!!) getting exactly what they deserve, so if a certain character (or two!) annoy you.....just you wait :)
Mary definitely isn't your typical Governess ina sense that she didn't even start out as one. Despite being very proud of her knowledge and education while being tols to sit and look pretty, she becomes a Governess by chance. While attempting to keep her position she really tries to hide her spirit and opinions.
But obviously, Sir Nicholas slowly has her showing her true self while getting to know each other, falling in love, and tackling Mary's main obstacles.
Here's what I like. Sir Nicholas is far from perfect.
Here's what I love. Mary knows this and at some point in confrontation she pours that realisation on him like a rainshower. And boooooooy was that a good scene.
With Catherine Tinley you always have the satisfaction of having the character you dislike (not the mains of course we enver hate those two!!) getting exactly what they deserve, so if a certain character (or two!) annoy you.....just you wait :)
May 26, 2025
A Waltz with the Outspoken Governess by Catherine Tinley is a charming Regency romance that beautifully blends wit, warmth, and a touch of rebellion. When Sir Nicholas Denny hires Mary Smith, a quiet vicar’s daughter, to tame his unruly nieces and nephews, he expects simplicity—but Mary is anything but ordinary. Intelligent, outspoken, and full of spirit, Mary challenges Nicholas’s views at every turn. Their simmering tension is irresistible, especially when an unexpected waltz threatens to tip the balance from duty to desire. Tinley masterfully crafts a slow-burn romance that remains true to the historical period while giving voice to a heroine with modern ideals. With sparkling dialogue, endearing children, and heart-stirring moments, this first instalment in the Dollar Duchesses series promises a delightful romantic escape filled with unexpected depth and classic charm.
May 19, 2021
Not necessarily a slow-burn romance but it seemed to take time for Mary and Nicholas to realize their feelings. I felt for Mary, so many things were against her. She needed a strong personality to not emotionally collapse beneath them. Nicholas has so many changes to make and Mary was a good influence on him, even though he fought against that change. His sister, Mrs. Fenhurst, needs to just return home. The children improved with Mary's attention, and there is a HEA for Miss Cushing. Actually there are other HEAs as well.
Ms Tinley's storytelling is consistent and seamless. Now for Lady Cecily. Recommended.
Ms Tinley's storytelling is consistent and seamless. Now for Lady Cecily. Recommended.
January 3, 2021
Oh what a lovely heartwarming story - Catherine Tinley smashes it yet again!
I really enjoyed getting to know the lovely rounded characters - and I also hope we get to meet some of the brilliant side characters again in the future.
As with all Catherine’s books this was a delightfully easy read (though with plenty complex plot / interest) that kept me up at night wanting to finish.
I really enjoyed getting to know the lovely rounded characters - and I also hope we get to meet some of the brilliant side characters again in the future.
As with all Catherine’s books this was a delightfully easy read (though with plenty complex plot / interest) that kept me up at night wanting to finish.
July 23, 2021
This is the first historical romance I liked. The characters were likeable especially Mary. I felt for her at some point when Sir Nicholas sister and the elderly governess didn't understand her enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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