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The Hapgoods of Bramleigh #5
The Purloined Portrait
Youngest of the Hapgood daughters, Edith is the petted darling of her family, her artistic ability a source of pride to all. But with a heart full of painting, there’s no room for romance, not even with Lionel, her brother-like distant cousin who has long adored her. But when Edith’s art career stands in jeopardy, Lionel champions her, at the cost of his own future. Will the eyes of her heart be opened too late, or can she somehow rescue their chance for love?
452 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 18, 2022
295 people are currently reading
80 people want to read
About the author
Christina Dudley
28 books266 followersChristina Hwang Dudley is the author of clean historical and contemporary romance.
Her historical romances include the Hapgoods of Bramleigh and Ellsworth Assortment series of Regency romances, including THE NATURALIST and TEMPTED BY FOLLY.
In contemporary romance, her forthcoming PRIDE AND PRESTON LIN (Third State Books, 2024) riffs on Austen, but this time the story is set in the San Francisco Bay Area, with Asian American protagonists who hail from different ends of the economic spectrum.
Her historical romances include the Hapgoods of Bramleigh and Ellsworth Assortment series of Regency romances, including THE NATURALIST and TEMPTED BY FOLLY.
In contemporary romance, her forthcoming PRIDE AND PRESTON LIN (Third State Books, 2024) riffs on Austen, but this time the story is set in the San Francisco Bay Area, with Asian American protagonists who hail from different ends of the economic spectrum.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
June 1, 2024
The Purloined Portrait is the 5th book in the Hapgoods of Bramleigh series by Christina Dudley, this time following Edith, the youngest of the Hapgood sisters. Readers of the series will know that Edith has long had a secret admirer in her cousin Lionel, the question is whether his feelings are reciprocated?
Whilst not my favourite of the series, this is another charming and entertaining addition nevertheless. Indeed, by now Dudley's Hapgood series has become something of a favorite comfort read. I love the humour and liveliness in her stories, as well as the romance of course, but also the colorful array of characters, many of whom feel like old friends by now. I also enjoy the fact that her books feel much more accurate to the time period than other books in the genre, with clean-cut romance and good old fashioned charm at the centre.
Having read the prior 4 books, both Edith and Lionel were already familiar characters, Edith the youngest and shyest of the Hapgood sisters, with her love for art, and Lionel, the lovable and exuberant youth. Being somewhat younger protagonists their romance was sweetly painted, with some clumsy and awkward moments (Lionel's first proposal was downright hilarious), and a fair amount of naivety, especially on Edith's part.
Lionel's devotion to Edith is very sweet, and I enjoyed the scenes where we are afforded a closer look back at his secret admiration for her over the years, and even though this meant recovering events we have seen before in other books, I didn't feel bored by these parts. Lionel, it has to be said, is rather like an over enthusiastic and eager puppy, always launching headfirst into a situation, regardless of the consequences, and he does find himself in some sticky situations in this novel as a result.
Edith is a far more reserved character, passionate about her art, but timid in other areas. We see her mature and blossom in this novel and eventually recognize her own feelings for what they are.
Hetty was as delightfully meddlesome as ever, and I look forward to her story in the next book. The Clinkett brothers were also good fun. We see the Sidneys return in this book, and feature quite heavily in the story, and there are also an array of new characters as well, some quite dastardly it has to be said.
Edith's art features quite predominantly in the book, in a way that does actually also direct and advance the plot, although I will say that at times the build to this could seem rather slow, for example we spend quite a lot of time with Edith in Bath with her art tutor, and whilst it was relevant to the plot, these parts weren't as entertaining.
As with the other books in the series, there are a lot of misunderstandings and mishaps along the way to a happy ending. I probably wasn't a fan of having quite such an out and out villain, however, I can see that doing so did serve the story. The book is actually well-plotted, in that earlier sub-plots take on new relevance towards the end of the story, and neatly tie in together, in a way that I hadn't expected.
All in all another highly enjoyable addition to a great series. Dudley's writing is always so vivid, that I can almost picture the scenes playing out, and she continues to remind me of Georgette Heyer, which is high praise indeed.
Whilst not my favourite of the series, this is another charming and entertaining addition nevertheless. Indeed, by now Dudley's Hapgood series has become something of a favorite comfort read. I love the humour and liveliness in her stories, as well as the romance of course, but also the colorful array of characters, many of whom feel like old friends by now. I also enjoy the fact that her books feel much more accurate to the time period than other books in the genre, with clean-cut romance and good old fashioned charm at the centre.
Having read the prior 4 books, both Edith and Lionel were already familiar characters, Edith the youngest and shyest of the Hapgood sisters, with her love for art, and Lionel, the lovable and exuberant youth. Being somewhat younger protagonists their romance was sweetly painted, with some clumsy and awkward moments (Lionel's first proposal was downright hilarious), and a fair amount of naivety, especially on Edith's part.
Lionel's devotion to Edith is very sweet, and I enjoyed the scenes where we are afforded a closer look back at his secret admiration for her over the years, and even though this meant recovering events we have seen before in other books, I didn't feel bored by these parts. Lionel, it has to be said, is rather like an over enthusiastic and eager puppy, always launching headfirst into a situation, regardless of the consequences, and he does find himself in some sticky situations in this novel as a result.
Edith is a far more reserved character, passionate about her art, but timid in other areas. We see her mature and blossom in this novel and eventually recognize her own feelings for what they are.
Hetty was as delightfully meddlesome as ever, and I look forward to her story in the next book. The Clinkett brothers were also good fun. We see the Sidneys return in this book, and feature quite heavily in the story, and there are also an array of new characters as well, some quite dastardly it has to be said.
Edith's art features quite predominantly in the book, in a way that does actually also direct and advance the plot, although I will say that at times the build to this could seem rather slow, for example we spend quite a lot of time with Edith in Bath with her art tutor, and whilst it was relevant to the plot, these parts weren't as entertaining.
As with the other books in the series, there are a lot of misunderstandings and mishaps along the way to a happy ending. I probably wasn't a fan of having quite such an out and out villain, however, I can see that doing so did serve the story. The book is actually well-plotted, in that earlier sub-plots take on new relevance towards the end of the story, and neatly tie in together, in a way that I hadn't expected.
All in all another highly enjoyable addition to a great series. Dudley's writing is always so vivid, that I can almost picture the scenes playing out, and she continues to remind me of Georgette Heyer, which is high praise indeed.
December 16, 2022
Well, here’s a thing - a Christina Dudley book that didn’t set me on fire. Was it well written? Yes, of course. Did I enjoy the read? Yes, absolutely. But I felt a little like Hetty, who writes impatiently of Edith’s letters that they were 3/4 art and only 1/4 interesting stuff.
Here’s the premise: Lionel Hapgood has loved his cousin Edith from the moment he set eyes on her, and he’s waited for years for them both to grow up so that he can marry her. But when he finally can’t wait any longer and blurts out his feelings for her, he takes her by surprise. She’s devoted so much thought and energy to her art, that she’s never given a thought to her own feelings, or even begun to think about marriage. She rebuffs him, leaving him in despair. But when she falls victim to an unscrupulous artist, the two are thrown together again in the most dramatic fashion.
This is book 5 of the series, and the pacing is very different form the others. For one thing, it unwinds back to the earliest days of Lionel’s dealings with Edith and her burgeoning artistic talent, so apart from an opening chapter to set up the later story, the pace is slow and the style is more narrative than action. Of course, it’s written with Dudley’s characteristic flair, but I missed the humour of the earlier books and the development of the story felt rather flat. There was a vast amount about Edith’s art, and I felt I could easily have dispensed with quite large chunks of that. It’s not until we get to Lionel’s first, botched, proposal that the pace picks up a little, and towards the end the action becomes almost too breathlessly fast.
Lionel and Edith are both lovely, sweet characters, and all their actions are completely understandable. Edith’s absorption in her art is very believable. Lionel’s devotion to her from such a young age (he was maybe thirteen when they first met?) seems to stretch credibility slightly, but I can easily go along with that. And then we have the vast array of the extended Hapgood family in the background. I don’t recommend reading this as a stand-alone book - it works much better if the whole series is read in sequence.
Now, to the villain(s) of the piece, and this is where things get a bit spoilerish, so skip to the last paragraph if you don’t want to know more. When Edith’s paintings are stolen, it doesn’t seem to have occurred to anyone that the villain might be responsible for staging the whole thing. Yet when Edith gets to London and hears that her own painting has been exhibited at the Royal Academy, she immediately assumes that the artist submitting it is the villain. Yet it would have been more logical to assume it’s the (supposed) unknown thief. It would have been more realistic (and dramatic!) for her not to guess he’s known to her until she is brought face to face with him again. And since he clearly stole (or copied) her painting and then falsely submitted it to the RA, surely there would have been legal pressure that could have been brought to bear against him? I found it incredibly frustrating that nothing terrible ever happened to him. And even more so that the painting itself was never recovered. I know that’s more realistic, but as a reader it felt like a very unsatisfactory outcome. It would have been nice to have some acknowledgement of it, perhaps for Edith to say that she doesn’t need the painting any more because she has the real thing instead.
But the romance is glorious, I loved the ingenious Hetty’s efforts to help and although I would have preferred the two to marry at once, I can (again) recognise that the way events actually played out was more realistic. This was a slightly frustrating read for me, but even a slightly flat Dudley book, with too much art and not enough actual romance, is way, way better than 99% of everything else on the market at the moment. Four stars and on to the irrepressible Hetty and the final book of the series.
Here’s the premise: Lionel Hapgood has loved his cousin Edith from the moment he set eyes on her, and he’s waited for years for them both to grow up so that he can marry her. But when he finally can’t wait any longer and blurts out his feelings for her, he takes her by surprise. She’s devoted so much thought and energy to her art, that she’s never given a thought to her own feelings, or even begun to think about marriage. She rebuffs him, leaving him in despair. But when she falls victim to an unscrupulous artist, the two are thrown together again in the most dramatic fashion.
This is book 5 of the series, and the pacing is very different form the others. For one thing, it unwinds back to the earliest days of Lionel’s dealings with Edith and her burgeoning artistic talent, so apart from an opening chapter to set up the later story, the pace is slow and the style is more narrative than action. Of course, it’s written with Dudley’s characteristic flair, but I missed the humour of the earlier books and the development of the story felt rather flat. There was a vast amount about Edith’s art, and I felt I could easily have dispensed with quite large chunks of that. It’s not until we get to Lionel’s first, botched, proposal that the pace picks up a little, and towards the end the action becomes almost too breathlessly fast.
Lionel and Edith are both lovely, sweet characters, and all their actions are completely understandable. Edith’s absorption in her art is very believable. Lionel’s devotion to her from such a young age (he was maybe thirteen when they first met?) seems to stretch credibility slightly, but I can easily go along with that. And then we have the vast array of the extended Hapgood family in the background. I don’t recommend reading this as a stand-alone book - it works much better if the whole series is read in sequence.
Now, to the villain(s) of the piece, and this is where things get a bit spoilerish, so skip to the last paragraph if you don’t want to know more. When Edith’s paintings are stolen, it doesn’t seem to have occurred to anyone that the villain might be responsible for staging the whole thing. Yet when Edith gets to London and hears that her own painting has been exhibited at the Royal Academy, she immediately assumes that the artist submitting it is the villain. Yet it would have been more logical to assume it’s the (supposed) unknown thief. It would have been more realistic (and dramatic!) for her not to guess he’s known to her until she is brought face to face with him again. And since he clearly stole (or copied) her painting and then falsely submitted it to the RA, surely there would have been legal pressure that could have been brought to bear against him? I found it incredibly frustrating that nothing terrible ever happened to him. And even more so that the painting itself was never recovered. I know that’s more realistic, but as a reader it felt like a very unsatisfactory outcome. It would have been nice to have some acknowledgement of it, perhaps for Edith to say that she doesn’t need the painting any more because she has the real thing instead.
But the romance is glorious, I loved the ingenious Hetty’s efforts to help and although I would have preferred the two to marry at once, I can (again) recognise that the way events actually played out was more realistic. This was a slightly frustrating read for me, but even a slightly flat Dudley book, with too much art and not enough actual romance, is way, way better than 99% of everything else on the market at the moment. Four stars and on to the irrepressible Hetty and the final book of the series.
May 21, 2023
Frustrating
This had some incredibly frustrating plot elements that made it painful to read. Even though there was a happy ending, it did not resolve my frustration. Justice was not served and losses were not restored.
This had some incredibly frustrating plot elements that made it painful to read. Even though there was a happy ending, it did not resolve my frustration. Justice was not served and losses were not restored.
January 8, 2023
A Young Artist’s Eyes are Open to Life and Love
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Regency Romance
SERIES: The Hapgoods of Bramleigh #5 (Note: Each book is standalone and can be read out of order, however I would recommend reading #3 School for Love and #4 Matchless Margaret prior to reading this book as the characters’ story arcs overlap.
THE PREMISE: Lionel Hapgood has been in love with his third cousin, Edith, since he met her at the age of twelve. After years of patiently keeping his feelings a secret, Lionel is bursting to speak his heart. But does Edith only see him as a cousin she loves as a brother…?
WHAT I LOVED:
- More Hapgoods: I am such a fan of this multi-installment family saga that features different romances and characters. For those of you who are not yet acquainted, the Hapgoods are an almost impoverished gentry family with four independently-minded daughters, a blustery and unsophisticated squire, and an often indisposed and indolent mother living in Somerset. Their extended family includes a widowed banker who recently married a sensible yet romantic neighbor and his three mischievous and playful children (now almost all grown).
- Earnest Devotion: *sigh* Young love. Lionel’s immediate infatuation and determination to marry his cousin at such a young age is wonderfully endearing. How sweet and romantic! But what is even more admirable and swoon-worthy is the steadfastness of his love. It isn’t just a youthful fancy. He remains constant always. And even though he is so very full of love and having trouble concealing it, Lionel takes care to put Edith’s feelings and wishes first. He doesn’t burden or demand. Instead he retreats and later secretly champions. His steadfast and yearning love was beautiful to witness.
- Artistic Adventures: Edith’s passion and talents lie with artistic endeavors – especially portraitures. Even though I am no artist myself, I loved hearing all her paintings and the descriptions of her art lessons. Whether it is charcoal sketches she is learning to properly color, representing emotions or passion in her work, or seeking answers to life’s big questions Edith’s art journey was inspiring and interesting to follow.
- Special Relationships: I loved seeing some spotlights on the supportive and loyal relationships both Lionel and Edith share with friends and various members of their families. For Lionel, I loved the closeness he shared with his stepmother, the unwavering support he receives from his ride-or-die friends in the Clinkett brothers (I hope we see more of them!), and the unexpected ally he found in his sister Hetty, who often provokes and teases him mercilessly. And for Edith, it was her whole family – her father, her sisters, her uncle and cousins – everyone treasures Edith and does all they can to provide, protect, and care for her. She is very well-loved. And because of her selfless and genuine nature, she is very deserving of their love.
- Mishaps, Calamities, and Surprises: Time to hold onto your bonnets, this romance is about to become a madcap adventure! I love how each novel in this series brings about some comedic capers and escapades for our characters to traverse through! There is so much that is exciting and dramatic – stolen artwork, an unintentional engagement, brawling attacks… And I loved the surprising twists, especially when such an unexpected character steps in to save the day!
WHAT I WASN’T AS FOND OF:
- Wanting More: While I appreciated and admired Lionel’s youthful love for Edith, I wouldn’t have minded more exploration into how his feelings of love evolved and matured as the years went by. Also for Edith, her discovery of feelings felt a bit swift and succinct. I think this romance would have benefited from just a little more depth and meaningful build up.
CONCLUSION:
The Hapgoods of Bramleigh is a stellar series – quintessential Regency Romance – top drawer! Christina Dudley is a master at skillfully blending together heartfelt romances, endearing characters, and hilarious mishaps. I sincerely hope that Christina Dudley writes many more installments for this series! And that maybe the next one will be about the bold and perceptive Hetty Hapgood!
Austenesque Reviews
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Source: Review Copy from Author
TYPE OF NOVEL: Regency Romance
SERIES: The Hapgoods of Bramleigh #5 (Note: Each book is standalone and can be read out of order, however I would recommend reading #3 School for Love and #4 Matchless Margaret prior to reading this book as the characters’ story arcs overlap.
THE PREMISE: Lionel Hapgood has been in love with his third cousin, Edith, since he met her at the age of twelve. After years of patiently keeping his feelings a secret, Lionel is bursting to speak his heart. But does Edith only see him as a cousin she loves as a brother…?
WHAT I LOVED:
- More Hapgoods: I am such a fan of this multi-installment family saga that features different romances and characters. For those of you who are not yet acquainted, the Hapgoods are an almost impoverished gentry family with four independently-minded daughters, a blustery and unsophisticated squire, and an often indisposed and indolent mother living in Somerset. Their extended family includes a widowed banker who recently married a sensible yet romantic neighbor and his three mischievous and playful children (now almost all grown).
- Earnest Devotion: *sigh* Young love. Lionel’s immediate infatuation and determination to marry his cousin at such a young age is wonderfully endearing. How sweet and romantic! But what is even more admirable and swoon-worthy is the steadfastness of his love. It isn’t just a youthful fancy. He remains constant always. And even though he is so very full of love and having trouble concealing it, Lionel takes care to put Edith’s feelings and wishes first. He doesn’t burden or demand. Instead he retreats and later secretly champions. His steadfast and yearning love was beautiful to witness.
- Artistic Adventures: Edith’s passion and talents lie with artistic endeavors – especially portraitures. Even though I am no artist myself, I loved hearing all her paintings and the descriptions of her art lessons. Whether it is charcoal sketches she is learning to properly color, representing emotions or passion in her work, or seeking answers to life’s big questions Edith’s art journey was inspiring and interesting to follow.
- Special Relationships: I loved seeing some spotlights on the supportive and loyal relationships both Lionel and Edith share with friends and various members of their families. For Lionel, I loved the closeness he shared with his stepmother, the unwavering support he receives from his ride-or-die friends in the Clinkett brothers (I hope we see more of them!), and the unexpected ally he found in his sister Hetty, who often provokes and teases him mercilessly. And for Edith, it was her whole family – her father, her sisters, her uncle and cousins – everyone treasures Edith and does all they can to provide, protect, and care for her. She is very well-loved. And because of her selfless and genuine nature, she is very deserving of their love.
- Mishaps, Calamities, and Surprises: Time to hold onto your bonnets, this romance is about to become a madcap adventure! I love how each novel in this series brings about some comedic capers and escapades for our characters to traverse through! There is so much that is exciting and dramatic – stolen artwork, an unintentional engagement, brawling attacks… And I loved the surprising twists, especially when such an unexpected character steps in to save the day!
WHAT I WASN’T AS FOND OF:
- Wanting More: While I appreciated and admired Lionel’s youthful love for Edith, I wouldn’t have minded more exploration into how his feelings of love evolved and matured as the years went by. Also for Edith, her discovery of feelings felt a bit swift and succinct. I think this romance would have benefited from just a little more depth and meaningful build up.
CONCLUSION:
The Hapgoods of Bramleigh is a stellar series – quintessential Regency Romance – top drawer! Christina Dudley is a master at skillfully blending together heartfelt romances, endearing characters, and hilarious mishaps. I sincerely hope that Christina Dudley writes many more installments for this series! And that maybe the next one will be about the bold and perceptive Hetty Hapgood!
Austenesque Reviews
October 19, 2024
Solid and very sweet. This genre seldom includes an innocent young man as well as the young women. It was refreshing and lovely!
April 24, 2022
The structure of The Purloined Portrait is much different from the first four in the series. Epigraphs continue to foreshadow each chapter, but now the reader goes back and forth in time. At first, I found the concept off-putting, but I read on. Edith's back story is worth the time.
I was nervous for Lionel. Did I want him and Edith to end up together? Did I want them to go their separate ways? My feelings were topsy turvy throughout. Sometimes I was frustrated with Lionel's behavior. Other times I felt exasperation with Edith. Once again, I felt that I was learning about a unique Hapgood sister. Edith is observant, careful, and thoughtful, but not always wise. Lionel stays true to himself and the conclusion is satisfying.
I was nervous for Lionel. Did I want him and Edith to end up together? Did I want them to go their separate ways? My feelings were topsy turvy throughout. Sometimes I was frustrated with Lionel's behavior. Other times I felt exasperation with Edith. Once again, I felt that I was learning about a unique Hapgood sister. Edith is observant, careful, and thoughtful, but not always wise. Lionel stays true to himself and the conclusion is satisfying.
July 23, 2022
Twists and turns
I loved the twists and turns of this story, and how everything came together in the end. But I was a little disappointed at Edith's lack of desire for any fame for her paintings. And all poor Lionel's suffering!
I loved the twists and turns of this story, and how everything came together in the end. But I was a little disappointed at Edith's lack of desire for any fame for her paintings. And all poor Lionel's suffering!
July 18, 2022
Lionel Hapgood has been in love with his third cousin Edith Hapgood for as long as he can remember. A budding artist, Edith spends her days drawing and painting, encouraged in her talent by her whole family and by her drawing master Mr. Eldredge Although his stepmother urges him to wait to reveal his feelings, Lionel can’t resist declaring his passion to Edith during the summer holidays after his first year at Oxford. Dismayed at this revelation, Edith rebuffs Lionel and focuses her energies on avoiding his presence and continuing her art.
But when a new painting master convinces Edith to turn a sketch of Lionel into a painting, Edith discovers emotions in her heart that she didn’t know existed, and when the painting–through a mysterious turn of events–makes its way to a gallery in London for the rest of the world to see, Lionel discovers that not all is lost as he had once thought….
This book was well-plotted with the only true villain of the series nefariously seeking to take advantage of Edith and her work. Lionel’s extreme youth made him harder to take seriously as a hero, but Edith’s self-discovery of her own feelings for Lionel was well done.
But when a new painting master convinces Edith to turn a sketch of Lionel into a painting, Edith discovers emotions in her heart that she didn’t know existed, and when the painting–through a mysterious turn of events–makes its way to a gallery in London for the rest of the world to see, Lionel discovers that not all is lost as he had once thought….
This book was well-plotted with the only true villain of the series nefariously seeking to take advantage of Edith and her work. Lionel’s extreme youth made him harder to take seriously as a hero, but Edith’s self-discovery of her own feelings for Lionel was well done.
August 11, 2022
This installment is structured differently than the others in the series, with a good portion going over events from the previous books from the perspective of Edith, the youngest of the Hapgood sisters, and Lionel, her third cousin who has been in love with her since childhood. While there is a lot of information we already know, I never felt bored. I actually preferred the first part of the novel to the second. Normally I can find something to like about romantic rivals, but Caroline Sidney has to be the biggest idiot to think that Lionel's fever-induced proposal was actually sincere. Since she's a lovestruck teenager I could forgive her for believing what she wanted to hear, but for everyone around her to treat it as an actual serious engagement (including his father who KNEW that he didn't mean it!) was a little too much to believe. However, this book still gets five stars from me because the description and characters are amazing. The way that Edith's art is described, I can see it perfectly in my mind's eye. It made me want to paint again for the first time in several years.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2022
I love this author for being able to write in her own style with a Georgette Heyer flavor. If I am in a reading rut I can be confident this series will pull me out of it. I loved the humor and fun situations in this one. Best 1st attempt and awkward proposal ever. There was wonderful imagery and story flow. I love the authors prose and voice. The character Hetty is quirky and spunky. She totally gave me a Grand Sophie (georgette heyer novel) vibe and I thought it was great. I'm excited she'll get her story next. This book was definitley a page turner for me and funny.
November 10, 2023
Not the biggest fan of teenage romances. Also didn’t like how much this was stretched out and think Edith’s relationship with her art could have been explored more.
February 11, 2025
Okay, I was pretty much liking this book, excepting the lack of the 2 leads being together through most of the book, until Chapter 23ish when it just really jumped the shark plotwise.
Dear author: EVERY book does not need three or five forced wrong engagements to supply drama and tension. This book already had enough romantic tension just through the H & h's not falling for each other at the same time. It's not really cute and sweet anymore, just frustrating, especially when this same trope has played out in every single book in the series up till now except... maybe the 1st one? Can't remember now.
And the over the top way everything plays out exactly opposite the way it would in real life: not a single reasonable person would hold an 18 year old feverish unconscious boy accountable for random words he said in his delirium, and no one would allow that nonsense to stand regardless of the idjit aunt and cousin. It's also not necessary to have at least one selfish, grasping, shallow new female rival per book. It's okay to shake things up sometimes.
There's already like 2 or 3 "baddies," a series of unfortunate events, the H, h getting in their own ways, etc. it's just way too much. I kinda don't want to finish it now. And I was looking forward to this one. Would have actually loved to see a bit more angst and longing on both Lionel and Edith's parts, a bit more falling for each other as actual semi-adults (they're still basically children in this one let's not pretend) instead of just having 'feelings' that have not been fed by actual interaction.
What's weird is that I found the first 3-4ish books well written and refreshing. Anyway.
It's not terrible till the plot wears tissue thin near the end.
Dear author: EVERY book does not need three or five forced wrong engagements to supply drama and tension. This book already had enough romantic tension just through the H & h's not falling for each other at the same time. It's not really cute and sweet anymore, just frustrating, especially when this same trope has played out in every single book in the series up till now except... maybe the 1st one? Can't remember now.
And the over the top way everything plays out exactly opposite the way it would in real life: not a single reasonable person would hold an 18 year old feverish unconscious boy accountable for random words he said in his delirium, and no one would allow that nonsense to stand regardless of the idjit aunt and cousin. It's also not necessary to have at least one selfish, grasping, shallow new female rival per book. It's okay to shake things up sometimes.
There's already like 2 or 3 "baddies," a series of unfortunate events, the H, h getting in their own ways, etc. it's just way too much. I kinda don't want to finish it now. And I was looking forward to this one. Would have actually loved to see a bit more angst and longing on both Lionel and Edith's parts, a bit more falling for each other as actual semi-adults (they're still basically children in this one let's not pretend) instead of just having 'feelings' that have not been fed by actual interaction.
What's weird is that I found the first 3-4ish books well written and refreshing. Anyway.
It's not terrible till the plot wears tissue thin near the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 11, 2022
5+ stars
Since the age of 12, Lionel Hapgood has vowed to marry his second cousin, Edith Hapgood, youngest sister of Elfrida, Alice, and Margaret. A talented artist since childhood, she continues to improve with her art and to grow in beauty to rival Elfrida. Lionel goes off to Oxford without telling Edith how he feels, and terrified that she will fall in love with someone else while he's away. Although dedicated to her art, she misses him and longs to hear about his adventures at university. He rarely writes letters to his family, though, and what little he writes is communicated to her by her cousins, Hetty and Rosie.
It's a long road for poor Lionel, through university, a heartbreaking rejection, a nearly fatal fight, and an accidental proposal. Kind, shy, little Edith also has a rough journey. Her little artistic soul gets bruised as she navigates her world of art teachers and rogues, as well as her feelings for Lionel.
I get the impression that the author vividly sees the scenes in her books, as though watching a movie in her head, and manages to paint them beautifully with words. She is brilliant at describing behavior, character, and emotions, especially of children. The families she creates seem as though they really existed in history, so realistically are they depicted, as though she plucked them right out of the Akashic records. Her books are among the most immersive I've read. Her subtle humor made me chuckle through all the books in this series. These are novels to savor, like a fine wine.
Since the age of 12, Lionel Hapgood has vowed to marry his second cousin, Edith Hapgood, youngest sister of Elfrida, Alice, and Margaret. A talented artist since childhood, she continues to improve with her art and to grow in beauty to rival Elfrida. Lionel goes off to Oxford without telling Edith how he feels, and terrified that she will fall in love with someone else while he's away. Although dedicated to her art, she misses him and longs to hear about his adventures at university. He rarely writes letters to his family, though, and what little he writes is communicated to her by her cousins, Hetty and Rosie.
It's a long road for poor Lionel, through university, a heartbreaking rejection, a nearly fatal fight, and an accidental proposal. Kind, shy, little Edith also has a rough journey. Her little artistic soul gets bruised as she navigates her world of art teachers and rogues, as well as her feelings for Lionel.
I get the impression that the author vividly sees the scenes in her books, as though watching a movie in her head, and manages to paint them beautifully with words. She is brilliant at describing behavior, character, and emotions, especially of children. The families she creates seem as though they really existed in history, so realistically are they depicted, as though she plucked them right out of the Akashic records. Her books are among the most immersive I've read. Her subtle humor made me chuckle through all the books in this series. These are novels to savor, like a fine wine.
October 29, 2025
3.5 this would have been a soiid 4⭐️ if not for certain portions of the book.
The first 75% of the book is quite lovely. I was qute charmed by the enduring young love the Hero had for the heroine. I did like that the heroine stayed true to her character and pursued her paiting.
However, SPOILERS!!!
I didnt like that the cousin of the Hero took advantage of his injured and delirious state to force an engagement w him! And the fact that his father even allowed it to happen knowing his son was not in his right mind.
Also what kind of father was he, his son was being accused of assault (which is why he was injured) and he doesn’t hire a lawyer or even bow street runners to investigate the claims of the victim.
And what kind of family are they, they all allow the heroine to confront the villain by herself! 🤦🏻♀️
Didnt like that the villains essentially escaped and profited from their theft of the heroine. 😠
The first 75% of the book is quite lovely. I was qute charmed by the enduring young love the Hero had for the heroine. I did like that the heroine stayed true to her character and pursued her paiting.
However, SPOILERS!!!
I didnt like that the cousin of the Hero took advantage of his injured and delirious state to force an engagement w him! And the fact that his father even allowed it to happen knowing his son was not in his right mind.
Also what kind of father was he, his son was being accused of assault (which is why he was injured) and he doesn’t hire a lawyer or even bow street runners to investigate the claims of the victim.
And what kind of family are they, they all allow the heroine to confront the villain by herself! 🤦🏻♀️
Didnt like that the villains essentially escaped and profited from their theft of the heroine. 😠
May 29, 2022
More of the sweet growing into love
And less of the stupid misunderstandings becoming engaged to another, please. The first 3/4 of the book showing a loved, loving, confident youth growing into a dependable, if still high spirited young man and the petted and talented young lady slowly awakening into early adulthood by noticing something more urgent to her happiness than even her extraordinary talent was almost lyrical in it's chapters and verse. So much so that the last garbled 20% with the consciously self deluding cousin on the other side, and the scheming villainy (affecting our heroine so much that she denies her love for an almost fatal 2nd time) seems tiresome. If the exciting conclusion could have come with the last movement more in concert with the whole, I could have savored it much more.
And less of the stupid misunderstandings becoming engaged to another, please. The first 3/4 of the book showing a loved, loving, confident youth growing into a dependable, if still high spirited young man and the petted and talented young lady slowly awakening into early adulthood by noticing something more urgent to her happiness than even her extraordinary talent was almost lyrical in it's chapters and verse. So much so that the last garbled 20% with the consciously self deluding cousin on the other side, and the scheming villainy (affecting our heroine so much that she denies her love for an almost fatal 2nd time) seems tiresome. If the exciting conclusion could have come with the last movement more in concert with the whole, I could have savored it much more.
March 12, 2023
4.25. So close to 4.5, but the ridiculous fever ridden proposal taken seriously made me just cringe. A bit too outlandish lol. But I loved this book!!! I feel like each next one in the series becomes my next favorite, but I’m sure if I reread them, it’d happen all over again! Lionel’s long love for Edith is so sweet and she is so beautifully innocent and you can’t help but love her and believe she’s real! It was just so sweet!!!! And I loved that it didn’t end right at the page where it was confessed, there were a few more pages (never enough, but better than a swift ending). I think the author could have brought up the portraits that Lionel stole of Edith, but I liked the symmetry of Lionel’s also being stolen. Fabulous!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2025
I read some lukewarm reviews from readers who couldn’t adjust to the less than chronological timeline, or the young ages of the protagonists. But I totally disagree! There were tender moments that made me tear up, and several sentences that made me laugh out loud! In all, I thought this was another captivating tale that showed the breadth AND depth of Dudley’s writing skills. She is just as much a genius in her realm as Edith is in hers! I love a story about perseverance, and Lionel was a fantastic character who truly grew up on these pages. I am just hugging myself (as I download his sister Hetty’s final story in this series)….
July 13, 2023
Good but centers on very young love
I really enjoy Ms Dudley’s books. The first four in this series were great. This one disappoints me a little. I am not a fan of young love. Sooo much of the story is when he is 15 to 18…and she is 13 to 16. They are children and even though it was sweet, I couldn’t put myself in the story. The heroine hides so much from the hero because she fears he will react immaturely…even after they have declared their mutual love.
It does make me look forward to Hetty’s story more.
I really enjoy Ms Dudley’s books. The first four in this series were great. This one disappoints me a little. I am not a fan of young love. Sooo much of the story is when he is 15 to 18…and she is 13 to 16. They are children and even though it was sweet, I couldn’t put myself in the story. The heroine hides so much from the hero because she fears he will react immaturely…even after they have declared their mutual love.
It does make me look forward to Hetty’s story more.
September 13, 2023
I was pleasantly impatient, knowing that the painting of Lionel had been stolen
But I wanted to immediately get to the business of solving the mystery. I knew this would be a good book. Once the character who stole it was introduced I was pretty sure he was the evildoer. But then I had to wait until his machinations were uncovered that I could feel good about identifying him before he was exposed within the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed the story despite my impatience and hope you will too.
But I wanted to immediately get to the business of solving the mystery. I knew this would be a good book. Once the character who stole it was introduced I was pretty sure he was the evildoer. But then I had to wait until his machinations were uncovered that I could feel good about identifying him before he was exposed within the narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed the story despite my impatience and hope you will too.
August 18, 2024
Loved, loved, loved!
I totally loved this book. I’d forgotten how well this author writes. Her characters are so well depicted, they come alive on the pages! It’s impossible not to fall in love with them. And not feel all the emotions they are feeling, not to suffer at their disappointments and to rejoice at their successes. It’s simply wonderful. What a treat this book was. I’m looking forward to reading other books in the series. Christina Dudley has become one of my favorite authors.
I totally loved this book. I’d forgotten how well this author writes. Her characters are so well depicted, they come alive on the pages! It’s impossible not to fall in love with them. And not feel all the emotions they are feeling, not to suffer at their disappointments and to rejoice at their successes. It’s simply wonderful. What a treat this book was. I’m looking forward to reading other books in the series. Christina Dudley has become one of my favorite authors.
April 16, 2022
love this author
This author is still one of my most favorite modern writers. I loved the flashback and movement forward. I just wish there were more Edith/Lionel moments. We just didn’t get to see many “this is why they should be together” moments. Still love how this author untangles a tangled web! That’s where she really shines. And she’s great at very clean, appropriate, slow burn chemistry. But alas! We didn’t get enough!!
This author is still one of my most favorite modern writers. I loved the flashback and movement forward. I just wish there were more Edith/Lionel moments. We just didn’t get to see many “this is why they should be together” moments. Still love how this author untangles a tangled web! That’s where she really shines. And she’s great at very clean, appropriate, slow burn chemistry. But alas! We didn’t get enough!!
August 30, 2022
The youngest Hapgood daughter gets engaged. Evelyn the youngest of Richard's daughters with the amazing artist talent is growing up. Her third cousin Lionel who has been in love with her since he was eight has gone to Oxford. Evelyn and the two Hugh Hapgood cousins have a governess and Evelyn has a art teacher. When further instruction is needed she is sent to Bath. Things turn bad for her there and The Plot Thickens!
January 28, 2023
It’s a good yarn with one unfortunate flaw for me. The heroine, Edith, is young and exceedingly shy. On the other hand, Lionel our hero, is young, rash and stubborn. So if you’re cool with main characters who are young and frustrating, this story will work great. The plotting is good and the story complicated and would have been fun if I hadn’t wanted to scream with frustration. Could be me.
May 14, 2022
I am really enjoying this Hapgood series. I was surprised by a couple of plot twists in this book, which was a refreshing change. In fact I’ve quite liked the uniqueness of the characters in this series.
I am looking forward to book 6 (Hetty) which comes out soon.
Quite clean, with only a few kisses involved. The characters, their actions and language are all consistent with regency times.
I am looking forward to book 6 (Hetty) which comes out soon.
Quite clean, with only a few kisses involved. The characters, their actions and language are all consistent with regency times.
June 28, 2022
Una scrittrice con un'ottima sensibilità storica, che sa mettere insieme storie delicate ma ben costruite e affascinanti. Questo è il quarto libro sugli Hapogood of Bramleigh, e anche se ho trovato la timidezza della protagonista piuttosto esasperante, davvero lo posso considerare allo stesso buon livello degli altri.
July 22, 2022
so deliciously frustrating!
I had to stop reading twice because I was so angry at the characters.
Of course I knew in the end it would be ok but I did feel rather sorry for Caroline. I hope she gets her true love also. Will JA turn up again like a bad penny? A villain with audacity.
I had to stop reading twice because I was so angry at the characters.
Of course I knew in the end it would be ok but I did feel rather sorry for Caroline. I hope she gets her true love also. Will JA turn up again like a bad penny? A villain with audacity.
December 27, 2022
This unusual Regency concerns a teenaged artist whose work is stolen and represented as that of another artist, her gentry family and the young man who loves her and wants to help her reclaim her work. It is a different take on the typical romance with a brave and talented heroine and a young man who knows what he wants at a very early age. The very fact that the girl is 17 and the boy 19 makes this tale very different from the usual 18-year-old debutante and the 30-year-old lord. All the information about the annual Academy show aand the observations formal art lessons made the story all the more interesting.
January 25, 2024
such a delightful romance
I loved Edie’s story. Of course it helped that both she and Lionel were so likable. As always, the author keeps the pace fun with her wonderful humor. I loved this book the best of the series, and next in the order of my favorites would be Elfrida’s story. I’m looking forward to reading about Hetty though. She’s hilarious.
I loved Edie’s story. Of course it helped that both she and Lionel were so likable. As always, the author keeps the pace fun with her wonderful humor. I loved this book the best of the series, and next in the order of my favorites would be Elfrida’s story. I’m looking forward to reading about Hetty though. She’s hilarious.
May 22, 2024
Lional always said he would marry Edith and he meant it yet years later. There are a lot of misunderstandings and situations to overcome before his dream comes true. I would have rated it five star had at least one of her paintings came back. It just doesn’t seem fair the thieves got away with it. In a book it’s nice to see justice meted out. That’s just my personal opinion
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