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Somewhat of a Ruse
Everyone desires something from her.
Her only desire is the one man she cannot have.
Laura Turner is grateful to be a governess to her younger cousins at Linwick Manor—a position that helps provide for her impoverished family. But when her oldest cousin missteps, Laura is reluctantly thrust into Society as her lady’s companion.
When the charming man Laura encounters at a ball turns out to be the very gentleman intended for her cousin, Laura is forced to ignore her absurd hopes and enact a ruse that will lead Mr. Huntington to pursue her cousin instead. With everyone’s expectations placed upon her and her position at Linwick Manor at stake, there is no room for error. If only Laura weren’t such an atrocious liar.
Her only desire is the one man she cannot have.
Laura Turner is grateful to be a governess to her younger cousins at Linwick Manor—a position that helps provide for her impoverished family. But when her oldest cousin missteps, Laura is reluctantly thrust into Society as her lady’s companion.
When the charming man Laura encounters at a ball turns out to be the very gentleman intended for her cousin, Laura is forced to ignore her absurd hopes and enact a ruse that will lead Mr. Huntington to pursue her cousin instead. With everyone’s expectations placed upon her and her position at Linwick Manor at stake, there is no room for error. If only Laura weren’t such an atrocious liar.
ebook
First published March 1, 2024
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336 people want to read
About the author
Jess Heileman
18 books497 followersJess Heileman is quite content being an average human being. Besides her five darling children and swoon-worthy husband, she doesn’t tout much claim to glory—even her middle name is just plain old Ann with no “e.” After a ten-year stint as a portrait photographer where she put her BA in Political Science from Brigham Young University to good use, Jess now spends her time frolicking between this awe-inspiring world and the one in her head where enthralling stories come to life. Besides her love of storytelling and her deep obsession with her perfectly quirky little family, Jess is an avid reader, proud introvert, collector of awkward moments, shameless people watcher, international café loiterer, and perpetual student. For sparse updates on what she's up to, feel free to follow her on IG @authorjessheileman, though know that her presence there is left wanting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
April 12, 2022
Sometimes you just need to throw caution to the wind, abandon your TBR, ignore all the promises you made to yourself and hang the commitments.
Then you need to go and pick up a tried and true author and become blissfully happy for an afternoon.
Somewhat of a Ruse is a story about one mishap in a shadowed room and the consequences of attraction and longing left in its wake. No it’s not the salacious type but it is the type full of tangible chemistry, perma-smile banter, wonderful story telling and the I love but I can’t have you trope.
What I love about this book is that the flow feels natural and gives you that “in the room” feeling when you’re reading a book and you don’t even feel like your reading, just experiencing it. I never truly enjoy novellas because I never feel like they are long enough to establish a full and complete connection to the story and the characters but this was not the case with this book. It’s on the longer end of novella length (thank you Jess) and the story feels full and finished. And although I could have read a full length book with these characters the novella left me deeply satisfied.
This book is lighthearted and funny balanced with a sweet and tender romance and a little angst for good measure.
I’ll auto read anything Jess puts out into the bookish universe. It’s always beautifully done, humorous and full of heart.
Then you need to go and pick up a tried and true author and become blissfully happy for an afternoon.
Somewhat of a Ruse is a story about one mishap in a shadowed room and the consequences of attraction and longing left in its wake. No it’s not the salacious type but it is the type full of tangible chemistry, perma-smile banter, wonderful story telling and the I love but I can’t have you trope.
What I love about this book is that the flow feels natural and gives you that “in the room” feeling when you’re reading a book and you don’t even feel like your reading, just experiencing it. I never truly enjoy novellas because I never feel like they are long enough to establish a full and complete connection to the story and the characters but this was not the case with this book. It’s on the longer end of novella length (thank you Jess) and the story feels full and finished. And although I could have read a full length book with these characters the novella left me deeply satisfied.
This book is lighthearted and funny balanced with a sweet and tender romance and a little angst for good measure.
I’ll auto read anything Jess puts out into the bookish universe. It’s always beautifully done, humorous and full of heart.
July 12, 2022
Jess Heileman has done it again!!! She wrote such a captivating story that I was so engrossed in it, I didn't come up for air until I had finished it! I didn't sleep until I finished reading it. Good thing I was on vacation. I even laughed out loud several times, then quickly looked over to make sure I hadn't woken my hubby. Hahaha! I swooned and sighed so many times. I want to go back and reread it right now just thinking about all of the scenes. *Happy Sigh*
Laura was an easy character to come to love and care for. She's got quite the job to keep her aunt happy all while being the governess to her younger cousins and suddenly being thrust into being her cousins companion for the season. Talk about nonstop work and stress in keeping everyone happy and in line.
And I have to say I just love her character and her awkward moments. Oh my heavens! I seriously did bust out loud laughing over a couple of them. *covers mouth and giggles* I'm picturing them now and just can't help myself.
And that first meeting with Oliver...all the feels and emotions. Surprise, embarrassment, shock, humor, swooning, and frustration! It was perfect!!! Now if only she had made a couple different choices then it wouldn't have been so chaotic after, but her choices in the moment made the story, so I'm glad she did what she did. Hahaha. Am I confusing you yet? I hope I've caused you to be intrigued so you'll go grab a copy and read it. Seriously, totally worth it!!!
Oliver was just wonderful! There were a few moments where I wanted to shake him and say wake up. But I can't explain why. You have to read it. Even with me feeling that way, I loved it all! He was wonderful. *Happy Sigh...again*
This book is free until the end of March 2023 over on Sweet and Swoony Romance on Facebook. It is part of a big promotion giveaway. So many wonderful books over there. But start with this one! ;-)
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further.
Happy Reading!!!
Laura was an easy character to come to love and care for. She's got quite the job to keep her aunt happy all while being the governess to her younger cousins and suddenly being thrust into being her cousins companion for the season. Talk about nonstop work and stress in keeping everyone happy and in line.
And I have to say I just love her character and her awkward moments. Oh my heavens! I seriously did bust out loud laughing over a couple of them. *covers mouth and giggles* I'm picturing them now and just can't help myself.
And that first meeting with Oliver...all the feels and emotions. Surprise, embarrassment, shock, humor, swooning, and frustration! It was perfect!!! Now if only she had made a couple different choices then it wouldn't have been so chaotic after, but her choices in the moment made the story, so I'm glad she did what she did. Hahaha. Am I confusing you yet? I hope I've caused you to be intrigued so you'll go grab a copy and read it. Seriously, totally worth it!!!
Oliver was just wonderful! There were a few moments where I wanted to shake him and say wake up. But I can't explain why. You have to read it. Even with me feeling that way, I loved it all! He was wonderful. *Happy Sigh...again*
This book is free until the end of March 2023 over on Sweet and Swoony Romance on Facebook. It is part of a big promotion giveaway. So many wonderful books over there. But start with this one! ;-)
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further.
Happy Reading!!!
May 16, 2022
What I loved:
- the romance. It was perfectly sweet and swoony. And the chemistry between them was undeniable!
What I didn't like:
- *SPOILER* there was just too much lying and deceit. It was such a big tangled mess, and it kept going and going. Not to mention her Aunt & Uncle kept forcing her to lie even more. It just wasn't enjoyable for me.
⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥/5
- the romance. It was perfectly sweet and swoony. And the chemistry between them was undeniable!
What I didn't like:
- *SPOILER* there was just too much lying and deceit. It was such a big tangled mess, and it kept going and going. Not to mention her Aunt & Uncle kept forcing her to lie even more. It just wasn't enjoyable for me.
⭐⭐⭐/5
🔥/5
April 10, 2022
This is my newest favorite novella ever. Jess packs all of the feels, relationship arc, supporting cast, and setting that I expect out of her in a full-length novel. But in a little baby book. It's amazing! I started reading it and stayed up far too late because I couldn't possibly sleep. Had. To. Finish.
Somewhat of a Ruse mildly reminds me of Mansfield Park. Laura is the poor niece and cousin living with her wealthier relatives. She's a mild nuisance to the family but at least their doing a good deed. She's meant to be seen and not-so-heard. Tasked with assisting her cousin, Madalene, to make a match with a Mr. Huntington, Laura has to juggle her day position as governess to her younger cousins with increasing events out in society. Sleep isn't all she's short on as Laura loses her heart to the one man she absolutely cannot have.
As much as I loved, smiled, and thoroughly enjoyed my read, I'm a bit boo-boo lipped it's over. My only cure to having no more new Jess books at present is a re-read. You can bet I'll be saying "hello" to Abigail again in my immediate future.
Somewhat of a Ruse mildly reminds me of Mansfield Park. Laura is the poor niece and cousin living with her wealthier relatives. She's a mild nuisance to the family but at least their doing a good deed. She's meant to be seen and not-so-heard. Tasked with assisting her cousin, Madalene, to make a match with a Mr. Huntington, Laura has to juggle her day position as governess to her younger cousins with increasing events out in society. Sleep isn't all she's short on as Laura loses her heart to the one man she absolutely cannot have.
As much as I loved, smiled, and thoroughly enjoyed my read, I'm a bit boo-boo lipped it's over. My only cure to having no more new Jess books at present is a re-read. You can bet I'll be saying "hello" to Abigail again in my immediate future.
May 19, 2022
This was a very sweet and charming novella. It was also the first book by Jess Heileman I’ve read and now I can’t wait to read her other books. I’m always intrigued by books that contain different aspects than others in the same genre. With this regency romance I loved how it was different than many others I’ve read in this same time-period; how Laura and Oliver meet, Laura’s circumstances, the children helping put on a play. All these little things, that I haven’t found in other regencies, enriched the story and made me love it that much more.
This book had so many great things about it, the adorable meet-cute, the banter, and of course the romance. I only wish it would have been dual point of view because I would have loved to hear Oliver’s perspective throughout the story. But still, I enjoyed this quick read and would love future stories about some of the other characters in the story.
This book had so many great things about it, the adorable meet-cute, the banter, and of course the romance. I only wish it would have been dual point of view because I would have loved to hear Oliver’s perspective throughout the story. But still, I enjoyed this quick read and would love future stories about some of the other characters in the story.
January 29, 2023
3.5☆ I enjoyed this! It was sweet and lighthearted, and the dialogue between Laura and Oliver was enjoyable to read. They had easy chemistry and I really liked them together. They had plenty of sweet and swoony moments, and some funny ones too. The plot and characters felt fleshed out and well developed, so I give kudos to the author for that given the novella length!
However, for as cute as the book was, I was equally annoyed with the fact that Laura would not come clean about her meeting Oliver that first night. I just didn’t like how she continually lied to him, even when he asked her (several times!) if it was her that he met. If she had come clean earlier than she had, I would have rated this 4 stars, but I just got so annoyed with her lie. I mean I guess on one hand you wouldn’t have a story, but I suppose that mistaken identity isn’t really my thing.
Overall though, it is really cute and I’m glad I read it.
However, for as cute as the book was, I was equally annoyed with the fact that Laura would not come clean about her meeting Oliver that first night. I just didn’t like how she continually lied to him, even when he asked her (several times!) if it was her that he met. If she had come clean earlier than she had, I would have rated this 4 stars, but I just got so annoyed with her lie. I mean I guess on one hand you wouldn’t have a story, but I suppose that mistaken identity isn’t really my thing.
Overall though, it is really cute and I’m glad I read it.
April 12, 2022
Fantastic novella with lots of angst.
Struggled with all of the lying.
Struggled with all of the lying.
March 28, 2024
“I shall be ready to catch you should you require it.”
Everyone desires something from dear Laura. Her only desire is an amazing gentleman she cannot have…
Genuine, and authentic Laura Turner is grateful for her position as governess to her adoring younger cousins-employment that helps provide for her impoverished family. When her oldest cousin missteps, Laura is reluctantly thrust into Society to pretend as though as her lady’s companion. When the charming kind man Laura encounters at a ball turns out to be the very gentleman intended for her cousin, Laura is rather forced to ignore her absurd hopes and enact a ruse that will lead Mr. Huntington to pursue her cousin.
With everyone’s clear expectations placed upon her and her position at Linwick Manor at stake, unfortunately there is no room for error. Especially when Mr. Huntington’s intentions begin to shift to Laura. If only Laura weren’t such an atrocious liar…
“We have no other choice. I cannot live my life without you.”
This is quite simply a story about two dear people who have the opportunity to find love with just a little help from fate. This lovely story will tug on your heartstrings in all the best ways. It is completely filled with such endearing characters, a plot filled with delightful twists and turns, humor, swoony romance, tender moments, and clever wit. @authorjessheileman this is a dear story that has my heart sighing. You have weaved a beautiful story and I look forward to more from you!! This is definitely a book that is worth the quick read!
“You are everything I have ever wanted, and I long for you to feel as deeply for me as I do for you.”
#somewhatofaruse
#jessheileman
#alovelynovellaworthreading
“Believe in yourself. But know that if you falter, I will be here.”
Everyone desires something from dear Laura. Her only desire is an amazing gentleman she cannot have…
Genuine, and authentic Laura Turner is grateful for her position as governess to her adoring younger cousins-employment that helps provide for her impoverished family. When her oldest cousin missteps, Laura is reluctantly thrust into Society to pretend as though as her lady’s companion. When the charming kind man Laura encounters at a ball turns out to be the very gentleman intended for her cousin, Laura is rather forced to ignore her absurd hopes and enact a ruse that will lead Mr. Huntington to pursue her cousin.
With everyone’s clear expectations placed upon her and her position at Linwick Manor at stake, unfortunately there is no room for error. Especially when Mr. Huntington’s intentions begin to shift to Laura. If only Laura weren’t such an atrocious liar…
“We have no other choice. I cannot live my life without you.”
This is quite simply a story about two dear people who have the opportunity to find love with just a little help from fate. This lovely story will tug on your heartstrings in all the best ways. It is completely filled with such endearing characters, a plot filled with delightful twists and turns, humor, swoony romance, tender moments, and clever wit. @authorjessheileman this is a dear story that has my heart sighing. You have weaved a beautiful story and I look forward to more from you!! This is definitely a book that is worth the quick read!
“You are everything I have ever wanted, and I long for you to feel as deeply for me as I do for you.”
#somewhatofaruse
#jessheileman
#alovelynovellaworthreading
“Believe in yourself. But know that if you falter, I will be here.”
June 11, 2022
I love Jess’ books. She adds humor, chemistry and such depth and emotion that I always want more. This is a novella so it’s relatively short compared to what Jess normally writes but it’s a complete story full of swoon!
I loved the aspect with the play with the children, the chance encounter at a ball and secret identity plus Mr Huntington is so dreamy. I picture him like Mr Knightley 😍
This novella is free for 1 year from Prolific Works. Just sign up and pick as many free clean and sweet ebooks as you want! Until April 2023.
I loved the aspect with the play with the children, the chance encounter at a ball and secret identity plus Mr Huntington is so dreamy. I picture him like Mr Knightley 😍
This novella is free for 1 year from Prolific Works. Just sign up and pick as many free clean and sweet ebooks as you want! Until April 2023.
February 16, 2025
This was a really sweet & quick regency novella!
Definitely what drew me in was that cover, isn't it beautiful? 😍 But the story was also beautiful, and very hard to put down!
Laura is a governess, and is forced to go into society as her cousin's lady's companion. But I loved how she was still loyal to her family, even when they hurt her. 🩷
The romance in it was so sweet, I felt like it was definitely a love at first sight, but still a slow burn. Mr. Huntington didn't know it was Laura he saw in the dark ballroom at first, but he still chose to follow his heart, when everyone else didn't want him to. 🩷
If you're looking for a sweet, clean regency novella that's an easy, quick read, then I highly recommend this one! 📚
Definitely what drew me in was that cover, isn't it beautiful? 😍 But the story was also beautiful, and very hard to put down!
Laura is a governess, and is forced to go into society as her cousin's lady's companion. But I loved how she was still loyal to her family, even when they hurt her. 🩷
The romance in it was so sweet, I felt like it was definitely a love at first sight, but still a slow burn. Mr. Huntington didn't know it was Laura he saw in the dark ballroom at first, but he still chose to follow his heart, when everyone else didn't want him to. 🩷
If you're looking for a sweet, clean regency novella that's an easy, quick read, then I highly recommend this one! 📚
October 28, 2022
I've read and loved all of Jess Heileman's books. I got this one from a Prolific Works promotion. This is a novella but didn't really feel like one because we really get to know Laura and Mr. Huntington (the main characters) fairly well. The meet cute was unusual and sets up the premise of the story. If you like mistaken identity storylines you'll enjoy this one.
November 21, 2025
Somewhat of a Ruse: A Sweet Regency Novella by Jess Heileman
I loved this sweet short novella.
There was a coherent, enjoyable plot and the characters were well-written, I hardly realized this was a novella.There were quite a few instances where I was laughing out loud because of a few scenes. I loved their banter and the ruse between them.
Oliver and Laura have some great chemistry, with plenty of swoon and sweet moments between them.
And oh that ending! I just adored it.
I definitely recommend this sweet clean novella to anyone wanting a short Regency read.
Favorite Parts: Robin scene, The Ruse, one horse, the play, the ending
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: closed-door sweet passionate kisses (nondescript)
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: Social Classes
Religious Content: none, I think characters attend church once.
Other: none
Book Info:
Series: standalone; novella
Genre: Historical Romance; Regency
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: Available on Amazon, KU, Hoopla (AZ), Youtube
Publisher: Indie
Narrator: Janna Fox
POV: Single
I loved this sweet short novella.
There was a coherent, enjoyable plot and the characters were well-written, I hardly realized this was a novella.There were quite a few instances where I was laughing out loud because of a few scenes. I loved their banter and the ruse between them.
Oliver and Laura have some great chemistry, with plenty of swoon and sweet moments between them.
And oh that ending! I just adored it.
I definitely recommend this sweet clean novella to anyone wanting a short Regency read.
Favorite Parts: Robin scene, The Ruse, one horse, the play, the ending
Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: closed-door sweet passionate kisses (nondescript)
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: Social Classes
Religious Content: none, I think characters attend church once.
Other: none
Book Info:
Series: standalone; novella
Genre: Historical Romance; Regency
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: Available on Amazon, KU, Hoopla (AZ), Youtube
Publisher: Indie
Narrator: Janna Fox
POV: Single
May 28, 2024
Genre: Historical Romance
Rating: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼
Summary: Laura is a governess at her cousin’s estate but no one is to know her true past to ensure her hosts aren’t embarrassed in polite society. Her uncle turns to her to get assistance in making a match for his daughter but she struggles because the man he’s picked is someone she can’t seem to control her feelings for.
Thoughts: Jess Heileman has set an impossible standard for me as a reader, yet every new book I read of hers, she achieves it. She is truly just in a league of her own.
This book was so special. I absolutely loved the heroine and the internal struggle she goes through trying to make the right choice in an impossible situation.
I loved how the romance bloomed and true love was able to prove itself real and prevail. I could have read 700 pages of this story but I think it was done perfectly as a novella. Not a word was wasted and I was swept away into another time and place. Perfection.
Rating: 5/5⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼
Summary: Laura is a governess at her cousin’s estate but no one is to know her true past to ensure her hosts aren’t embarrassed in polite society. Her uncle turns to her to get assistance in making a match for his daughter but she struggles because the man he’s picked is someone she can’t seem to control her feelings for.
Thoughts: Jess Heileman has set an impossible standard for me as a reader, yet every new book I read of hers, she achieves it. She is truly just in a league of her own.
This book was so special. I absolutely loved the heroine and the internal struggle she goes through trying to make the right choice in an impossible situation.
I loved how the romance bloomed and true love was able to prove itself real and prevail. I could have read 700 pages of this story but I think it was done perfectly as a novella. Not a word was wasted and I was swept away into another time and place. Perfection.
May 15, 2022
Somewhat of A Ruse by Jess Heileman🧡
From the prolific works free novella promotion.
I am not normally able to enjoy novellas, as I feel like I don’t have enough time to get to know the characters, but Somewhat of A Ruse definitely did not suffer from that issue! This romance was so undeniably fun, and I enjoyed meeting these characters so much. The set up and “meet cute” at the ball was adorable and I loved how the mistaken identities were used to enhance the romance between Laura and Mr. Huntington. Somewhat of A Ruse felt like a full length novel within its format, and it was a fantastic introduction to this author’s writing! If you are looking for a sweet romance that is a quick read, but still brings all the feels, then this is for you!
From the prolific works free novella promotion.
I am not normally able to enjoy novellas, as I feel like I don’t have enough time to get to know the characters, but Somewhat of A Ruse definitely did not suffer from that issue! This romance was so undeniably fun, and I enjoyed meeting these characters so much. The set up and “meet cute” at the ball was adorable and I loved how the mistaken identities were used to enhance the romance between Laura and Mr. Huntington. Somewhat of A Ruse felt like a full length novel within its format, and it was a fantastic introduction to this author’s writing! If you are looking for a sweet romance that is a quick read, but still brings all the feels, then this is for you!
August 9, 2022
Adorable! This novella has all the elements I love in a book by Jess Heileman. The characters are fun, relatable, and charming. The story was entertaining. The romance delightful. I want more. :)
I highly recommend and look forward to more connected to this story.
I highly recommend and look forward to more connected to this story.
April 12, 2022
I enjoyed this story.
Content: clean
Content: clean
April 11, 2022
Best regency novella I’ve ever read! The setting, characters, and plot had all of the the charm of that era plus many fresh takes on classic character types and obstacles. This author never disappoints with her fantastic writing style that instantly immersed me and has me rooting for the main character. This book is written in first person POV from Laura’s perspective which was perfect because Laura is smart, loyal, witty, and kind but she also has a lot of demands placed on her and tricky situations that make being inside her head just the best.
September 4, 2022
This is such a cute story! This is a Novella but it didn't feel like one. I loved that I was so invested right from the start. The book started off strong and ended that way. This was well done. I was a little worried this guy would spend the whole book loving the wrong girl. That would have bugged me! This was great! This is a proper romance. I would give it to my teen to read.
July 16, 2022
This book like many in this category, started out well. Although there is very little to dislike about the hero, I found him a bit dull. Our heroine's attempts to lie could have been better written. A short book with may be 6/7 characters in it. Very little world building and characterization in the book.
September 2, 2025
I listened to Somewhat of a Ruse by Jess Heileman with a goofy grin plastered across my face, punctuated by giggles, gasps, and twinkling eyes at all the right moments. This audiobook was an absolute delight, earning a glowing 4.5 stars (rounded up to 5!), though I’ll explain why it lost a half-star in the second half, with spoilers clearly marked below.
I stumbled upon this book by chance, scrolling through my TBR list with nothing quite clicking. I picked it randomly, figuring if I didn’t like it, no big deal. But when I caught on to the trope, my eyes lit up! Oliver, the hero, falls for Laura, our heroine, but mistakenly thinks he’s smitten with her cousin, Matilda. I’m not sure what to call this trope—mistaken identity romance, maybe?—but I love it. Ever since Julia Quinn’s On the Way to the Wedding, I’ve been hunting for something similar, and this hit the mark perfectly.
Told entirely from Laura’s point of view, the story feels focused and immersive. There’s no spice, which makes it a great pick for younger readers (I’d say 12+, though a brief moment in the epilogue might nudge it slightly higher—otherwise, it could’ve been 9+). It’s an ideal entry point for young girls who want to try the romance genre.
What really stood out was the rich cast of women in the story: Laura, Matilda, Matilda’s friend (whose name I can’t recall), Selene (another cousin), Mrs. Pembrooke (the snobbish antagonist), and Mrs. Hunginton. The opening scene with Laura, Matilda, and her friend sets a lively tone. Matilda’s friend knows more about her than Laura does and acts snobbish about Laura’s status as the “poor cousin” (her mother married a commoner). Yet, in a nuanced moment, she notices Laura’s ill-fitting, unflattering second-hand clothes and sends her better ones. I wish the author had dug deeper into this friend’s dynamic with both Laura and Matilda—it’s one reason the book lost a half-star.
Mrs. Pembrooke, the story’s “villain,” constantly belittles Laura, overworking her as a governess by day and a chaperone by night. Matilda’s arc, meanwhile, felt like it deserved more closure at the end. The book’s short length—under 6 hours, compared to the usual 8-10 hours for romance audiobooks—left some threads underexplored, another reason for the slight deduction.
The plot is a charming tangle of secrets and lies. Laura’s uncle promises her and her sisters a £1000 dowry (each) if she helps secure an engagement between Matilda and Oliver. Laura gets caught in a web: pushing Matilda toward Oliver, hiding that she was the one he met in the dark, concealing her role as a governess and her status as the family’s poor relation, and covering for Matilda’s secret meetings with another boy. It’s a whirlwind of endearing chaos, and the happy ending wraps it up beautifully.
That said, the story can feel a bit simplistic, especially in the second half, where a touch more angst could have added depth. The short runtime didn’t allow for fuller exploration of characters like Matilda’s friend or Matilda herself.
I'll put it here before the spoilers: I also want to leave a positive note about the narrator who did an amazing job!
Spoilers Ahead!
I’m keeping this vague to avoid ruining the story, but the second half ties up conflicts a bit too neatly, missing chances for more tension or complexity. Oliver gets over the web of lies too easily. He mentions he suspected the truth all along, so it’s not a huge blow, but a confrontation where he admits he hoped Laura thought more highly of him could’ve added depth.
As for Matilda, she’s not interested in Oliver at the beginning, but —big spoiler—at the play, she runs off feeling “betrayed” by Laura. There’s a hint, at that point in the story, that she had her sights on Oliver, but more insight into her feelings, especially given what we learn in the epilogue (and suspect earlier), would’ve helped. This could’ve been fixed with Laura overhearing a conversation that hints at Matilda’s secret without spelling it out, or by showing Matilda suddenly desperate to marry Oliver ASAP, only to be shocked by the revelation of Oliver's interest in Laura.
I also wanted more of Selene. Since this is a standalone, I’m sad we won’t get her story—or Matilda’s, or even her snobbish friend’s. A slightly longer book could’ve fleshed out these arcs and made this an even stronger read.
I stumbled upon this book by chance, scrolling through my TBR list with nothing quite clicking. I picked it randomly, figuring if I didn’t like it, no big deal. But when I caught on to the trope, my eyes lit up! Oliver, the hero, falls for Laura, our heroine, but mistakenly thinks he’s smitten with her cousin, Matilda. I’m not sure what to call this trope—mistaken identity romance, maybe?—but I love it. Ever since Julia Quinn’s On the Way to the Wedding, I’ve been hunting for something similar, and this hit the mark perfectly.
Told entirely from Laura’s point of view, the story feels focused and immersive. There’s no spice, which makes it a great pick for younger readers (I’d say 12+, though a brief moment in the epilogue might nudge it slightly higher—otherwise, it could’ve been 9+). It’s an ideal entry point for young girls who want to try the romance genre.
What really stood out was the rich cast of women in the story: Laura, Matilda, Matilda’s friend (whose name I can’t recall), Selene (another cousin), Mrs. Pembrooke (the snobbish antagonist), and Mrs. Hunginton. The opening scene with Laura, Matilda, and her friend sets a lively tone. Matilda’s friend knows more about her than Laura does and acts snobbish about Laura’s status as the “poor cousin” (her mother married a commoner). Yet, in a nuanced moment, she notices Laura’s ill-fitting, unflattering second-hand clothes and sends her better ones. I wish the author had dug deeper into this friend’s dynamic with both Laura and Matilda—it’s one reason the book lost a half-star.
Mrs. Pembrooke, the story’s “villain,” constantly belittles Laura, overworking her as a governess by day and a chaperone by night. Matilda’s arc, meanwhile, felt like it deserved more closure at the end. The book’s short length—under 6 hours, compared to the usual 8-10 hours for romance audiobooks—left some threads underexplored, another reason for the slight deduction.
The plot is a charming tangle of secrets and lies. Laura’s uncle promises her and her sisters a £1000 dowry (each) if she helps secure an engagement between Matilda and Oliver. Laura gets caught in a web: pushing Matilda toward Oliver, hiding that she was the one he met in the dark, concealing her role as a governess and her status as the family’s poor relation, and covering for Matilda’s secret meetings with another boy. It’s a whirlwind of endearing chaos, and the happy ending wraps it up beautifully.
That said, the story can feel a bit simplistic, especially in the second half, where a touch more angst could have added depth. The short runtime didn’t allow for fuller exploration of characters like Matilda’s friend or Matilda herself.
I'll put it here before the spoilers: I also want to leave a positive note about the narrator who did an amazing job!
Spoilers Ahead!
I’m keeping this vague to avoid ruining the story, but the second half ties up conflicts a bit too neatly, missing chances for more tension or complexity. Oliver gets over the web of lies too easily. He mentions he suspected the truth all along, so it’s not a huge blow, but a confrontation where he admits he hoped Laura thought more highly of him could’ve added depth.
As for Matilda, she’s not interested in Oliver at the beginning, but —big spoiler—at the play, she runs off feeling “betrayed” by Laura. There’s a hint, at that point in the story, that she had her sights on Oliver, but more insight into her feelings, especially given what we learn in the epilogue (and suspect earlier), would’ve helped. This could’ve been fixed with Laura overhearing a conversation that hints at Matilda’s secret without spelling it out, or by showing Matilda suddenly desperate to marry Oliver ASAP, only to be shocked by the revelation of Oliver's interest in Laura.
I also wanted more of Selene. Since this is a standalone, I’m sad we won’t get her story—or Matilda’s, or even her snobbish friend’s. A slightly longer book could’ve fleshed out these arcs and made this an even stronger read.
June 16, 2024
Dishonesty will get you a rich husband
A "cute" story that unfortunately missed the mark by sending the message that dishonesty is a good basis for a relationship because you will end up married to the rich handsome man because you are somehow still amusing and smart. And your dishonesty will have no lasting damage because consequences don't apply to you. You are a victim of your circumstances and so you don't need to be honest. The characters were weak and virtueless despite it being a "clean" regency.
Would I let me daughters read this: no.
I don't want to be so critical and harsh, but I tire of "clean" regency romances that have no morally true basis. If you are trying to write clean, can't it also be uplifting and inspiring? Can't it also show us what an actual healthy, good, loving relationship should look like while also be entertaining? If you can't write clean AND virtuous, why write clean? Entertainment influences us, don't you want to influence people for the better if you are writing clean? Honesty matters and is the basis of a healthy relationship. There are better ways to create drama than dishonesty. Rise above it. Show characters that are honest and true despite their circumstances and the problems they are facing. Those are characters we can respect, cheer for and want to emulate.
The fact that the author had to defend Laura being a liar at the end of the book because "We aren't in her shoes" tells me that she doesn't understand real life consequences. I completely agree that we can learn a lot about life from books. But in real life- she would not be getting a happy ending. She would be penniless and destitute, or she would have lost the one she loved but kept her job. Sometimes real life doesn't have a happy ending, but that's reality. Changing reality to fit what you want it to be does us all a disservice and adds to the destruction of a healthy society because it teaches us message that are not true. I would have given this author another chance, but seeing as how she had to defend her story rather than choose to write better characters, I won't be reading any more
A "cute" story that unfortunately missed the mark by sending the message that dishonesty is a good basis for a relationship because you will end up married to the rich handsome man because you are somehow still amusing and smart. And your dishonesty will have no lasting damage because consequences don't apply to you. You are a victim of your circumstances and so you don't need to be honest. The characters were weak and virtueless despite it being a "clean" regency.
Would I let me daughters read this: no.
I don't want to be so critical and harsh, but I tire of "clean" regency romances that have no morally true basis. If you are trying to write clean, can't it also be uplifting and inspiring? Can't it also show us what an actual healthy, good, loving relationship should look like while also be entertaining? If you can't write clean AND virtuous, why write clean? Entertainment influences us, don't you want to influence people for the better if you are writing clean? Honesty matters and is the basis of a healthy relationship. There are better ways to create drama than dishonesty. Rise above it. Show characters that are honest and true despite their circumstances and the problems they are facing. Those are characters we can respect, cheer for and want to emulate.
The fact that the author had to defend Laura being a liar at the end of the book because "We aren't in her shoes" tells me that she doesn't understand real life consequences. I completely agree that we can learn a lot about life from books. But in real life- she would not be getting a happy ending. She would be penniless and destitute, or she would have lost the one she loved but kept her job. Sometimes real life doesn't have a happy ending, but that's reality. Changing reality to fit what you want it to be does us all a disservice and adds to the destruction of a healthy society because it teaches us message that are not true. I would have given this author another chance, but seeing as how she had to defend her story rather than choose to write better characters, I won't be reading any more
July 21, 2024
Somewhat of a Boring Book
I was bored for most of the book because the "heroine" was constantly reminding us how she was lying to the H. Essentially, it was like "Oh, I should stop lying. He's going to hate me when he learns the truth. I can't even keep track of all the lies..."
I get it: Lie lie lie, she's a lying liar who lies... But of course, the lure of the H's kisses and that giddy feeling she had about him were way more important than telling him the truth. Her eventual justification for the continued deception was "I might as well enjoy the romance/dalliance while I can, since eventually he'll find out and that will be the end." I did not find this attitude to be endearing. But never fear, the H was at the end of the day.
Oh, and grammar and vocabulary: Grade = C Authors need to understand that modern words like "repurpose" have no business in historical novels. ("Mother thought it wise to repurpose a few of my older gowns, considering Laura will have no need for such finery when she returns to her typical duties.") Also, stop using double prepositions, like "the words with which I greeted him with". (This is just a hypothetical example, as I don't remember the exact instances in the book. But there were several.)
I recommend skipping the audiobook, since the narrator is reading it but not making much effort to interpret it, particularly the dialogue. Also, I laughed when the narrator spoke about another character shooting the heroine an "ac yew ZAY tuh ry" look. That's not the author's fault, though, that's down to the audiobook narrator/editor.)
I was bored for most of the book because the "heroine" was constantly reminding us how she was lying to the H. Essentially, it was like "Oh, I should stop lying. He's going to hate me when he learns the truth. I can't even keep track of all the lies..."
I get it: Lie lie lie, she's a lying liar who lies... But of course, the lure of the H's kisses and that giddy feeling she had about him were way more important than telling him the truth. Her eventual justification for the continued deception was "I might as well enjoy the romance/dalliance while I can, since eventually he'll find out and that will be the end." I did not find this attitude to be endearing. But never fear, the H was at the end of the day.
Oh, and grammar and vocabulary: Grade = C Authors need to understand that modern words like "repurpose" have no business in historical novels. ("Mother thought it wise to repurpose a few of my older gowns, considering Laura will have no need for such finery when she returns to her typical duties.") Also, stop using double prepositions, like "the words with which I greeted him with". (This is just a hypothetical example, as I don't remember the exact instances in the book. But there were several.)
I recommend skipping the audiobook, since the narrator is reading it but not making much effort to interpret it, particularly the dialogue. Also, I laughed when the narrator spoke about another character shooting the heroine an "ac yew ZAY tuh ry" look. That's not the author's fault, though, that's down to the audiobook narrator/editor.)
August 4, 2022
4 stars
Reading this novella was reminiscent of watching the 2004 film A Cinderella Story, in that you spend the entire time thinking "How can you not recognise Hilary Duff under that flimsy excuse for a mask?"
Except in this instance, the hero can't figure out that the heroine is the mystery girl he met in a 'darkened parlour' at the beginning of the story... even though he recognises her laugh, knows where she lives and she even quotes direct lines from their previous conversation to him.
Yet also like that cutesy rom-com, Somewhat of a Ruse was so silly and sweet that I was more than happy to put aside my cynicism and go along for the romantic ride. And romantic it was... think chance encounters, angsty mistaken identities and flirty banter. For such a short story, Jess Heileman was really able to pack a punch.
Reading this novella was reminiscent of watching the 2004 film A Cinderella Story, in that you spend the entire time thinking "How can you not recognise Hilary Duff under that flimsy excuse for a mask?"
Except in this instance, the hero can't figure out that the heroine is the mystery girl he met in a 'darkened parlour' at the beginning of the story... even though he recognises her laugh, knows where she lives and she even quotes direct lines from their previous conversation to him.
Yet also like that cutesy rom-com, Somewhat of a Ruse was so silly and sweet that I was more than happy to put aside my cynicism and go along for the romantic ride. And romantic it was... think chance encounters, angsty mistaken identities and flirty banter. For such a short story, Jess Heileman was really able to pack a punch.
May 29, 2022
3.5* Cute book. I enjoyed reading it, and because it was a novella, did so in one sitting. Clean, sweet romance with a HEA. I can see how some struggled with the lies in this book, after a little bit, I was feeling the same. I didn’t understand how he said he wanted honesty above anything else, but knew she was lying through her teeth most of the book, and still fell in love with her. Also, it was difficult for me to believe that he thought Madelyn was Laura. They acted entirely different and even sounded different, but who said men were perceptive😉. I was also a little disappointed about Madelyn’s story. The author set it up like she was madly in love with the farmer’s son, he broke it off, then she acted like she was experiencing morning sickness, but all we were told at the end was she had rarely come out of her room since Oliver declared his feelings for Laura. Was she pregnant? Did her parents ever let her be with her love? I know it wasn’t Madelyn’s story, but a little ending to it would have been great. All in all, I liked the book and loved the meet cute!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 24, 2024
4.5 stars This is a charming, historical romance. It is written as a novella, but for the most part, it felt like a full length story. The story of mistaken identity and a ruse to cover it up leads to many lies and misunderstandings. But the way it’s done is so endearing and under duress, you kind of look past the deception. I really like the characters of Laura and Oliver. You could feel their connection and bonding even though they were trying to push each other away. I really enjoyed the interaction with the children. It made me think of the Sound of Music with the governess and the children putting on a play and the handsome, eligible bachelor looking on. The part I would’ve liked a little more depth would have been developing the relationship between Laura and Madelyn, and Madelyn’s story. Maybe an epilogue? Did Madelyn ever come out of her room? I feel like there’s plenty of depth and storyline that could be interesting and compelling enough for a full length novel. but I did enjoy it as it is, and was charmed and smitten with the witty banter and sweet ending.
February 22, 2023
Have you read anything by @authorjessheileman?? If you haven’t you are totally missing out and should rectify your mistake soon.
If you have, then you know she loves to put her characters in hilariously awkward situations, and this novella delivers!
Laura is her younger cousin’s governess, but also acting as companion to their older sister. An accidental meeting with a gentleman in a darkened room, who ends up being the very eligible and desirable neighbor, leads to “somewhat of a ruse.” 😏😏
I absolutely love Laura and all her inner thoughts, actions and desires. Jess knows just how to write a Regency rom-com!
If you are in the mood to laugh, I highly recommend reading this book! And you know the best part!? It’s free!! I’ll put the link in our bio/link it in our stories. There’s lots of other great novellas too, so definitely check them out!
If you have, then you know she loves to put her characters in hilariously awkward situations, and this novella delivers!
Laura is her younger cousin’s governess, but also acting as companion to their older sister. An accidental meeting with a gentleman in a darkened room, who ends up being the very eligible and desirable neighbor, leads to “somewhat of a ruse.” 😏😏
I absolutely love Laura and all her inner thoughts, actions and desires. Jess knows just how to write a Regency rom-com!
If you are in the mood to laugh, I highly recommend reading this book! And you know the best part!? It’s free!! I’ll put the link in our bio/link it in our stories. There’s lots of other great novellas too, so definitely check them out!
May 15, 2025
Laura Turner is living with her aunt and uncle and working as governess to their children. Her uncle is her mother's brother and fond of her, but his wife is a snob who keeps her in her "place". At a ball, she has a potentially ruinous encounter in a darkened room, where the man in the shadows manages to save the day. She discovers that the man who now intrigues her believes her cousin, Matilda, is the girl he saved from ruin, and feels a stab of jealousy. This is further worsened when her uncle tasks her with ensuring that Matilda ends up married to the handsome Mr. Huntingdon.
There's humorous dialogue in this one, and both the main characters are likable. A big loose thread at the end, however: what happened to Matilda? This does not seem to be part of a series, so I guess we'll never know.
There's humorous dialogue in this one, and both the main characters are likable. A big loose thread at the end, however: what happened to Matilda? This does not seem to be part of a series, so I guess we'll never know.
July 7, 2022
I love anything written by Jess Heileman and this did not disappoint! Novellas are often too short and shallow for my liking, but this was perfect! I felt happy and satisfied at the end.
The meetcute between Laura and Oliver was so fun. Laura gets into lots of awkward situations throughout the story, often witnessed by Oliver. He’s so flirty and sweet to her. I really liked their characters and the author did a good job of filling them out. I enjoyed the one person point of view since it left us in Laura’s shoes, always wondering what Oliver was really thinking.
I highly recommend this adorable novella. It’s light and fun and best of all it’s FREE for 1 year from Prolific Works. Just sign up and pick as many free clean and sweet ebooks as you want! Until April 2023
The meetcute between Laura and Oliver was so fun. Laura gets into lots of awkward situations throughout the story, often witnessed by Oliver. He’s so flirty and sweet to her. I really liked their characters and the author did a good job of filling them out. I enjoyed the one person point of view since it left us in Laura’s shoes, always wondering what Oliver was really thinking.
I highly recommend this adorable novella. It’s light and fun and best of all it’s FREE for 1 year from Prolific Works. Just sign up and pick as many free clean and sweet ebooks as you want! Until April 2023
August 15, 2022
Jess Heileman has done it again! Except this time it was in novella form, though that doesn't mean that the story suffered anything for it. On the contrary, it packs real characters (from the MCs, Laura, and Oliver, to the young charges), the pressing need to enact a ruse, awkward/embarrassing situations for Laura but not for the reader (thanks for pulling this off, Jess!!), as well as a dashing and swoon-worthy hero with the author's trademark sweet, sigh-worthy romance. Truly, it's everything I love in her writing without the "darkness" that's sometimes woven in her novels. Just be warned: be prepared to be unproductive once you start this novella. I loved this story, and I can't wait to see what she comes up with next! 😍 ~ 5 stars!
May 3, 2024
Wonderfully written!
I adored this story!! It was so wonderfully written and so enjoyable, from cover to cover. This author was an instant favorite of mine when I first read her books, and this one just goes to prove why.
I loved the first person perspective- reading from Laura’s viewpoint instantly made her more relatable and realistic. She is a lovable heroine who you immediately root for. Enter Mr Huntington and life for her begins a rollercoaster ride of lies, deception, attraction, devotion and more. He is such a swoony hero, and I loved his and Laura’s interactions!
I was quickly caught up in this story- in the angst and the emotion of it all, and couldn’t read it fast enough. Definitely recommend reading it!!
I adored this story!! It was so wonderfully written and so enjoyable, from cover to cover. This author was an instant favorite of mine when I first read her books, and this one just goes to prove why.
I loved the first person perspective- reading from Laura’s viewpoint instantly made her more relatable and realistic. She is a lovable heroine who you immediately root for. Enter Mr Huntington and life for her begins a rollercoaster ride of lies, deception, attraction, devotion and more. He is such a swoony hero, and I loved his and Laura’s interactions!
I was quickly caught up in this story- in the angst and the emotion of it all, and couldn’t read it fast enough. Definitely recommend reading it!!
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