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Somerset Stories #2
Gentleman Jim
From USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews comes a swashbuckling tale of Regency era romance and revenge.
She couldn’t forget…
Wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was always meant to marry her neighbor, Frederick Burton-Smythe, but it’s bastard-born Nicholas Seaton who has her heart. Raised alongside her on her father’s estate, Nicholas is the rumored son of notorious highwayman Gentleman Jim. When Fred frames him for theft, Nicholas escapes into the night, vowing to find his legendary sire. But Nicholas never returns. A decade later, he’s long been presumed dead.
He wouldn’t forgive…
After years spent on the continent, John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has finally come home to England. Tall, blond, and dangerous, he’s on a mission to restore his family’s honor. If he can mete out a bit of revenge along the way, so much the better. But he hasn’t reckoned for Maggie Honeywell. She’s bold and beautiful—and entirely convinced he’s someone else.
As danger closes in, St. Clare is torn between love and vengeance. Will he sacrifice one to gain the other? Or with a little luck—and a lot of daring—will he find a way to have them both?
She couldn’t forget…
Wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was always meant to marry her neighbor, Frederick Burton-Smythe, but it’s bastard-born Nicholas Seaton who has her heart. Raised alongside her on her father’s estate, Nicholas is the rumored son of notorious highwayman Gentleman Jim. When Fred frames him for theft, Nicholas escapes into the night, vowing to find his legendary sire. But Nicholas never returns. A decade later, he’s long been presumed dead.
He wouldn’t forgive…
After years spent on the continent, John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has finally come home to England. Tall, blond, and dangerous, he’s on a mission to restore his family’s honor. If he can mete out a bit of revenge along the way, so much the better. But he hasn’t reckoned for Maggie Honeywell. She’s bold and beautiful—and entirely convinced he’s someone else.
As danger closes in, St. Clare is torn between love and vengeance. Will he sacrifice one to gain the other? Or with a little luck—and a lot of daring—will he find a way to have them both?
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2020
640 people are currently reading
3101 people want to read
About the author
Mimi Matthews
23 books4,331 followersUSA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews writes both historical nonfiction and award-winning historical romance, including Rules for Ruin, a Kirkus, NYPL, NPR, Library Journal, and BookPage Best Book of 2025; The Siren of Sussex, a 2023 RUSA Reading List shortlist pick for Best Romance; Fair as a Star, a Library Journal Best Romance of 2020; Gentleman Jim, a Kirkus Best Book of 2020; and The Work of Art, winner of the 2020 HOLT Medallion and a 2021 Daphne du Maurier Award nominee. Her novels have received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Kirkus, BookPage, and Shelf Awareness, and her articles have been featured on the Victorian Web, the Journal of Victorian Culture, and in syndication at BUST Magazine.
In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes an Andalusian dressage horse, a miniature poodle, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
**I only rate the books I love.**
In her other life, Mimi is an attorney. She resides in California with her family, which includes an Andalusian dressage horse, a miniature poodle, a Sheltie, and two Siamese cats.
**I only rate the books I love.**
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 886 reviews
July 15, 2024
What is wrong with me? I enjoyed a clean romance! A completely sexless, granny-approved book!
Even though it’s a sequel of The Work of Art these two novels are not related in any other way than the historical setting, which is a little surprising. From what I understand the stories intertwine in the next book though.
Gentleman Jim is a story of a nobleman’s daughter who fell in love with a servant boy. The book has everything; adventures, secrets, bully-villains and injustice driven drama. But most of all it is a beautiful story of love that truly conquers all.
I don’t want to say more about the plot because it’s a tricky thing to do without spoilers here, but let me just tell you that if you like strong-minded, lovable heroines and tormented heroes you will enjoy this book. If you’re okay with only kissing that is.
Can’t wait for the next one in this series!
Even though it’s a sequel of The Work of Art these two novels are not related in any other way than the historical setting, which is a little surprising. From what I understand the stories intertwine in the next book though.
Gentleman Jim is a story of a nobleman’s daughter who fell in love with a servant boy. The book has everything; adventures, secrets, bully-villains and injustice driven drama. But most of all it is a beautiful story of love that truly conquers all.
I don’t want to say more about the plot because it’s a tricky thing to do without spoilers here, but let me just tell you that if you like strong-minded, lovable heroines and tormented heroes you will enjoy this book. If you’re okay with only kissing that is.
Can’t wait for the next one in this series!
August 8, 2020
It is no secret that I am a major Mimi Matthews fan and at this point I just whine at her until she sends me her newest books (lol) and so I was delighted to read Gentleman Jim!
Often, I am a reactive with these gushes and just finish the book with my giddy sigh and bounce on my chair for a bit and then get to typing everything at once. Other times, I sit with the experience for a few days and allow the words to roll around in my head for a bit and to sit and think about all the different strands and themes I just read and how everything is interwoven subtly and brilliantly to thread the gorgeous tapestry that is the finished picture of a book.
With Gentleman Jim, too, I was cognizant of how delighted I was not to know where the story and some of its crucial moments and relationships were going and because that element of complete surprise was one of the most delectable takeaways from the romance, I don't want to ruin it for people here.
See, Gentleman Jim is not a typical Matthews' book. Sure, it has the immediate sense of verisimilitude and resplendent research that are hallmarks of Matthews' work. Sure it has the sigh factor and the pitch perfect dialogue you could transport from any scene onto the stage in one brilliant, self-contained moment. But it is more, for a few reasons I want to highlight:
This book, more than Matthews' previous books ( at least to this reader) was full to the brim of a passionate spirit that almost burst from the pages. I could tell Matthews was revelling in the story. That she savoured these characters. That her heart must have been bursting and her fingers not tapping fast enough to keep up with every wonder unfurling in her mind. There is so much personality in this book it is like it stuffed into too-full seams. And I loved it.
I started it at night and had every intention of reading a chapter and going to sleep but it was 2:30 am and I had crashed through a huge chunk of it.
I also want to highlight that the spirit of adventure is high in this one: it is a romp with some wonderful twists and a picaresque flair. To add, it borrows from some favourite classic tropes such as Tom Jones and Count of Monte Cristo. And yet, Matthews competently paints it in a fresh light so even if some of the narrative tendencies are familiar to readers, they are presented in a new light. This is largely to do with the absolutely unforgettable heroine, but more on her later.
I also want to highlight that this book is the most sensually charged of Matthews' works so far. That isn't to say that she doesn't establish healthy, consenting physical relationships or passion in her other books, its just that this one is unbuttoned. Like a loosened cravat rather than a glove touch or a wrist brush we'd find in some of the other works in her canon. For here, the physical relationship between the two is visceral and urgent: makes sense given this is a story wherein lovers have been parted for a long stretch of time and where an illness has weakened the strength, if not indomitable presence, of the heroine.
There is a candlelit sequence during a reunion that maintains on this side of chaste. Light flickers lowly and the hero is half disrobed and every sense from touch to breath to heartbeat is drawn out in a sonorous melody. Because this is a Matthews' book, she pans away before taking matters too far, however she lingers longer than I have seen before. For an author who always portrays healthy physical relationships ( and gives us some wonderful postscripts post-marriage: even in As Fair as a Star and, my favourite, Tom and Jenny lounging in bed in A Modest Independence), I felt that the sensual connection between St. Clare and Maggie is palpable. Moreover, it is integral to the themes of reconciliation and healing.
The hero and heroine cannot breathe without one another. They are one half of another's whole and so it makes perfect sense that as they are welded in terms of mental connection so, still, are they bereft of each other's physical presence.
The revenge theme is strong and the sensual/physical spirit of the book is portrayed not only in moments of love but also in moments of violence. St. Clare's desperation to build a new life while seeking recompense for past wrongs manifests in a physical desire whereas Maggie uses her strength and constancy. Her belief in her past love is magnificent to me. Her faith and certainty is every bit as tenacious and moving as Mercedes in Count of Monte Cristo.
Maggie is the perfect blend of feminine and outright feminism. She is well ahead of her time and her tie to her independence and saving her estate shows an absolute rigid stubbornness. Yet, she is resourceful, quick thinking, handy with a pistol, an excellent shot and a great rider. Undaunted by illness, she is far from a damsel in distress, rather very much equal to the hero though more likely to seek revenge through truth and compassion than through strike of blade. She is of the Jenny (of Modest Independence) ilk.
Back rooms of taverns, highwayman, duels, secrets and intercepted carriages loan the book a constant momentum so when we are tugged slowly into repose to fall into a field of forget-me-nots with Maggie and St Clare, we feel more acutely the quiet reprieve.
I applaud Matthews' release of this against the also wonderful Fair as a Star. For it so lovingly proves her range. In that book, we have the rage of depression, a calm vicar hero whose love is so steadfast it can find love in diseases as of yet understood and help to slay mental demons. Here, we have an opposite flavour, a hero who mounts horses and wields his fists. I love that he is physically protective but I also love that he allows Maggie her own moments to shine.
At the end of the secrets and family mysteries, at the revelation of identity, at the reclaiming of love and lust and kindred spirits, we are given a languorous epilogue: one that allows us to settle in with life in all of its complicated wonder. That allows us to see every last thread sewn in and every sentence met with a full stop.
Sometimes I think reviewers use the term "satisfied read" flippantly. And yet here I *was* satisfied. My appetite was satiated. I was content to close the door on the words of the narrative and let the characters live as I had painted them in scenario and dialogue and full dimension in my brain. I loved Maggie and St Clare as their pasts unfurled to their presents. I loved the lingering present of Gentleman Jim and how he lived on in numerous facets: in stories and visages, in the past repeating itself in a new way.
This is Mimi Matthews on Caffeine: it is a jolt of something new! It is the whirl of a creative world even as our own world has screeched to a halt.
It's like Gentleman Jim was created to counter our forced idleness to rev up our spirits like an engine and to pull us out of our incarcerated, stupid, no good idle year. This will charge your brain and light your heart.
This is the antidote to the sorrow and complacency and the horror of the news. Where men are stalwart and will fight for honour and women will stretch beyond the constructs of their era's limitation to fight for love.
I freaking LOVE this book. And that is a broken record when it comes to Mimi Matthews. She makes me believe in romantic feminism. That a woman can crave and hanker for independence while still choosing love and never falling so into it she loses what makes her strong and singular and bold-minded.
But reader friends, don't you just REVEL in the fact that we have such an author? That we are gifted with someone who can pluck us out of our worlds? Just knowing that there are stories where love prevails and soulmates are found and cultivated and cherished makes me feel more hopeful for myself. For all of us.
This book is timely.
Good will prevail.
Evil never wins.
Throw your heart and your life into reckless love and never, ever lose hope.
I took all of this away from this reading experience. And you will, too!
Shall we quote it up?
(disclaimer: quotes taken from an advanced personal copy and subject to change before publication)
" The elegant sprawl he affected was an illusion. St Clare was no more relaxed than a lion waiting to spring upon its prey."
"I'm not a prize to be fought over, Fred." Maggie said. "I'm a grown woman with thoughts and feelings and opinions of my own."
"Do you think I deserve you? That I deserve any of this? You're mine! And tomorrow, my love, we're going to take that special license Lord Allendale procured and you and I are going to get married!"
"Miss Honeywell, if you don't stop fidgeting with your gloves and look at me, I shall be compelled to take your hand and hold it in mine."
"Miss Honeywell is the pattern card." ( THIS IS MY FAVOURITE MIMI MATTHEWS LINE EVER--)
"I often think that, in the years since he left me, I've been living as only half a person. Waiting..."
"He'd sacrificed his past."
"Oh for pity's sake, If you think this is what I want-- two men pummeling each other over me- then you're very much mistaken. I'm not some damsel in distress for you to rescue."
"Because...In order to move forward, I had to let you go."
And let's have a little Jane Eyre-esque moment as we did so often in Matrimonial Advertisement:
"A sharp tug pulling at my heart. As if a thread was anchored there, linking me to some other person, somewhere out there in the world. I always imagined it was you. Imagined it and wondered if you felt it too."
"To leave her behind with all the rest of my past. I thought I had done. But I hadn't. I can't . I'd sooner cut out my own beating heart."
Often, I am a reactive with these gushes and just finish the book with my giddy sigh and bounce on my chair for a bit and then get to typing everything at once. Other times, I sit with the experience for a few days and allow the words to roll around in my head for a bit and to sit and think about all the different strands and themes I just read and how everything is interwoven subtly and brilliantly to thread the gorgeous tapestry that is the finished picture of a book.
With Gentleman Jim, too, I was cognizant of how delighted I was not to know where the story and some of its crucial moments and relationships were going and because that element of complete surprise was one of the most delectable takeaways from the romance, I don't want to ruin it for people here.
See, Gentleman Jim is not a typical Matthews' book. Sure, it has the immediate sense of verisimilitude and resplendent research that are hallmarks of Matthews' work. Sure it has the sigh factor and the pitch perfect dialogue you could transport from any scene onto the stage in one brilliant, self-contained moment. But it is more, for a few reasons I want to highlight:
This book, more than Matthews' previous books ( at least to this reader) was full to the brim of a passionate spirit that almost burst from the pages. I could tell Matthews was revelling in the story. That she savoured these characters. That her heart must have been bursting and her fingers not tapping fast enough to keep up with every wonder unfurling in her mind. There is so much personality in this book it is like it stuffed into too-full seams. And I loved it.
I started it at night and had every intention of reading a chapter and going to sleep but it was 2:30 am and I had crashed through a huge chunk of it.
I also want to highlight that the spirit of adventure is high in this one: it is a romp with some wonderful twists and a picaresque flair. To add, it borrows from some favourite classic tropes such as Tom Jones and Count of Monte Cristo. And yet, Matthews competently paints it in a fresh light so even if some of the narrative tendencies are familiar to readers, they are presented in a new light. This is largely to do with the absolutely unforgettable heroine, but more on her later.
I also want to highlight that this book is the most sensually charged of Matthews' works so far. That isn't to say that she doesn't establish healthy, consenting physical relationships or passion in her other books, its just that this one is unbuttoned. Like a loosened cravat rather than a glove touch or a wrist brush we'd find in some of the other works in her canon. For here, the physical relationship between the two is visceral and urgent: makes sense given this is a story wherein lovers have been parted for a long stretch of time and where an illness has weakened the strength, if not indomitable presence, of the heroine.
There is a candlelit sequence during a reunion that maintains on this side of chaste. Light flickers lowly and the hero is half disrobed and every sense from touch to breath to heartbeat is drawn out in a sonorous melody. Because this is a Matthews' book, she pans away before taking matters too far, however she lingers longer than I have seen before. For an author who always portrays healthy physical relationships ( and gives us some wonderful postscripts post-marriage: even in As Fair as a Star and, my favourite, Tom and Jenny lounging in bed in A Modest Independence), I felt that the sensual connection between St. Clare and Maggie is palpable. Moreover, it is integral to the themes of reconciliation and healing.
The hero and heroine cannot breathe without one another. They are one half of another's whole and so it makes perfect sense that as they are welded in terms of mental connection so, still, are they bereft of each other's physical presence.
The revenge theme is strong and the sensual/physical spirit of the book is portrayed not only in moments of love but also in moments of violence. St. Clare's desperation to build a new life while seeking recompense for past wrongs manifests in a physical desire whereas Maggie uses her strength and constancy. Her belief in her past love is magnificent to me. Her faith and certainty is every bit as tenacious and moving as Mercedes in Count of Monte Cristo.
Maggie is the perfect blend of feminine and outright feminism. She is well ahead of her time and her tie to her independence and saving her estate shows an absolute rigid stubbornness. Yet, she is resourceful, quick thinking, handy with a pistol, an excellent shot and a great rider. Undaunted by illness, she is far from a damsel in distress, rather very much equal to the hero though more likely to seek revenge through truth and compassion than through strike of blade. She is of the Jenny (of Modest Independence) ilk.
Back rooms of taverns, highwayman, duels, secrets and intercepted carriages loan the book a constant momentum so when we are tugged slowly into repose to fall into a field of forget-me-nots with Maggie and St Clare, we feel more acutely the quiet reprieve.
I applaud Matthews' release of this against the also wonderful Fair as a Star. For it so lovingly proves her range. In that book, we have the rage of depression, a calm vicar hero whose love is so steadfast it can find love in diseases as of yet understood and help to slay mental demons. Here, we have an opposite flavour, a hero who mounts horses and wields his fists. I love that he is physically protective but I also love that he allows Maggie her own moments to shine.
At the end of the secrets and family mysteries, at the revelation of identity, at the reclaiming of love and lust and kindred spirits, we are given a languorous epilogue: one that allows us to settle in with life in all of its complicated wonder. That allows us to see every last thread sewn in and every sentence met with a full stop.
Sometimes I think reviewers use the term "satisfied read" flippantly. And yet here I *was* satisfied. My appetite was satiated. I was content to close the door on the words of the narrative and let the characters live as I had painted them in scenario and dialogue and full dimension in my brain. I loved Maggie and St Clare as their pasts unfurled to their presents. I loved the lingering present of Gentleman Jim and how he lived on in numerous facets: in stories and visages, in the past repeating itself in a new way.
This is Mimi Matthews on Caffeine: it is a jolt of something new! It is the whirl of a creative world even as our own world has screeched to a halt.
It's like Gentleman Jim was created to counter our forced idleness to rev up our spirits like an engine and to pull us out of our incarcerated, stupid, no good idle year. This will charge your brain and light your heart.
This is the antidote to the sorrow and complacency and the horror of the news. Where men are stalwart and will fight for honour and women will stretch beyond the constructs of their era's limitation to fight for love.
I freaking LOVE this book. And that is a broken record when it comes to Mimi Matthews. She makes me believe in romantic feminism. That a woman can crave and hanker for independence while still choosing love and never falling so into it she loses what makes her strong and singular and bold-minded.
But reader friends, don't you just REVEL in the fact that we have such an author? That we are gifted with someone who can pluck us out of our worlds? Just knowing that there are stories where love prevails and soulmates are found and cultivated and cherished makes me feel more hopeful for myself. For all of us.
This book is timely.
Good will prevail.
Evil never wins.
Throw your heart and your life into reckless love and never, ever lose hope.
I took all of this away from this reading experience. And you will, too!
Shall we quote it up?
(disclaimer: quotes taken from an advanced personal copy and subject to change before publication)
" The elegant sprawl he affected was an illusion. St Clare was no more relaxed than a lion waiting to spring upon its prey."
"I'm not a prize to be fought over, Fred." Maggie said. "I'm a grown woman with thoughts and feelings and opinions of my own."
"Do you think I deserve you? That I deserve any of this? You're mine! And tomorrow, my love, we're going to take that special license Lord Allendale procured and you and I are going to get married!"
"Miss Honeywell, if you don't stop fidgeting with your gloves and look at me, I shall be compelled to take your hand and hold it in mine."
"Miss Honeywell is the pattern card." ( THIS IS MY FAVOURITE MIMI MATTHEWS LINE EVER--)
"I often think that, in the years since he left me, I've been living as only half a person. Waiting..."
"He'd sacrificed his past."
"Oh for pity's sake, If you think this is what I want-- two men pummeling each other over me- then you're very much mistaken. I'm not some damsel in distress for you to rescue."
"Because...In order to move forward, I had to let you go."
And let's have a little Jane Eyre-esque moment as we did so often in Matrimonial Advertisement:
"A sharp tug pulling at my heart. As if a thread was anchored there, linking me to some other person, somewhere out there in the world. I always imagined it was you. Imagined it and wondered if you felt it too."
"To leave her behind with all the rest of my past. I thought I had done. But I hadn't. I can't . I'd sooner cut out my own beating heart."
August 20, 2020
I first stumbled across Mimi Matthews’ work through Audible. I had exhausted the Georgette Heyers, stormed through the Stella Rileys and was at a loss for finding well written historical romance. The majority of what is on offer is haphazardly historically accurate and often stuffed full of sex scenes that have you rolling your eyes and pressing ‘return’ a third of the way in. And the less said about random modern Americanisms cropping up through the dialogue the better (moans the pedantic Brit)! So finding ‘A Convenient Marriage’ was the first step to opening up a whole new world of historical fiction that I both thoroughly enjoyed and also respected.
As much as I enjoy the Victorian-set novels, my fondness for Heyer (and of course Austen!) means I will always have a soft spot for Regency fiction. So, when ‘Gentleman Jim’ was announced I was enormously looking forward to spending a few hours with man who would probably ride ventre a terre and be devastating in a duel... And I am not disappointed!
The premise of the novel is that of frustrated young love. Nicholas Seaton, the bastard son of a local tart, has a hard life with a mother who shows no affection and contends with the rumours that his father was an infamous highwayman, the eponymous Gentleman Jim. His one joy is his friendship with local landowner’s daughter Margaret Honeywell, a feisty girl who flouts convention by teaching him to read and write, and lifts his heart by dancing with him in the woods. When circumstances force him to abscond for his life, assisted by Margaret, he promises to return to her one day.
Years later, we find Margaret (Maggie) unmarried, unappreciated and a shadow of her former self. She is physically weak after a bout of influenza and is at the mercy of her vile neighbour Fred, who hopes to use his guardianship of her estate and fortune to pressure her into marriage. She has escaped Somerset to spend a few weeks in London, in the company of an old friend who is determined to help Maggie regain some of her old way of life. Little does she expect that when, in desperation, she confronts the man who has challenged Fred to duel she will find herself confronted by an Earl’s grandson, John St. Clare, who is the double of her first and only love, Nicholas Seaton.
I won’t reveal any spoilers because the pleasure of reading this book is to follow its twists and turns, hoping that Nicholas has found his way back to England and back to Maggie. She is almost entirely convinced she recognises her love, but has she waited so long that she is grasping at straws? There are balls, rides in the park, an almost ravishing in a coach and of course duels and fisticuffs. This is the stuff of dreams for Heyer fans!
Of course, it’s written in Matthews’ clear and delightful style. It’s obvious she has respect and affection for the periods about which she writes and the detail, whether dress or etiquette, is always flawless. I think that for me Matthews’ obvious pleasure in writing and her affection for her characters is the biggest draw. By truly caring about what she writes, she creates a world of real people with problems and dilemmas that transcend the space of time. Maggie is hindered by a world where the word of man is king, but her Sir Galahad, St. Clare doesn’t want to dominate and confine her. He wants to set her spirit free and live his life alongside a woman he respects and loves, but is this enough? Will love triumph duty or will pragmatism win the day? And more to the point, is St. Clare Nicholas Seaton? Well, there’s only one way to find out...
As much as I enjoy the Victorian-set novels, my fondness for Heyer (and of course Austen!) means I will always have a soft spot for Regency fiction. So, when ‘Gentleman Jim’ was announced I was enormously looking forward to spending a few hours with man who would probably ride ventre a terre and be devastating in a duel... And I am not disappointed!
The premise of the novel is that of frustrated young love. Nicholas Seaton, the bastard son of a local tart, has a hard life with a mother who shows no affection and contends with the rumours that his father was an infamous highwayman, the eponymous Gentleman Jim. His one joy is his friendship with local landowner’s daughter Margaret Honeywell, a feisty girl who flouts convention by teaching him to read and write, and lifts his heart by dancing with him in the woods. When circumstances force him to abscond for his life, assisted by Margaret, he promises to return to her one day.
Years later, we find Margaret (Maggie) unmarried, unappreciated and a shadow of her former self. She is physically weak after a bout of influenza and is at the mercy of her vile neighbour Fred, who hopes to use his guardianship of her estate and fortune to pressure her into marriage. She has escaped Somerset to spend a few weeks in London, in the company of an old friend who is determined to help Maggie regain some of her old way of life. Little does she expect that when, in desperation, she confronts the man who has challenged Fred to duel she will find herself confronted by an Earl’s grandson, John St. Clare, who is the double of her first and only love, Nicholas Seaton.
I won’t reveal any spoilers because the pleasure of reading this book is to follow its twists and turns, hoping that Nicholas has found his way back to England and back to Maggie. She is almost entirely convinced she recognises her love, but has she waited so long that she is grasping at straws? There are balls, rides in the park, an almost ravishing in a coach and of course duels and fisticuffs. This is the stuff of dreams for Heyer fans!
Of course, it’s written in Matthews’ clear and delightful style. It’s obvious she has respect and affection for the periods about which she writes and the detail, whether dress or etiquette, is always flawless. I think that for me Matthews’ obvious pleasure in writing and her affection for her characters is the biggest draw. By truly caring about what she writes, she creates a world of real people with problems and dilemmas that transcend the space of time. Maggie is hindered by a world where the word of man is king, but her Sir Galahad, St. Clare doesn’t want to dominate and confine her. He wants to set her spirit free and live his life alongside a woman he respects and loves, but is this enough? Will love triumph duty or will pragmatism win the day? And more to the point, is St. Clare Nicholas Seaton? Well, there’s only one way to find out...
September 26, 2020
When squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell’s father dies, her abusive neighbor and prospective husband Fredrick Burton-Smythe gets total control of her. He has challenged a stranger to a duel and Margret finds he looks the spitting image of her childhood friend. Events spiral into a race of jealousy and revenge, where Margaret is stuck in the middle.
Getleman Jim is the standalone regency romance by Mimi Matthews set in Somerset 1817 about squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell who has been left in control of her abusive guardian and neighbor Frederick Burton-Smythe. Through his will, her father forces her to marry Fred and have the estates joined or she will lose all her assets. But Margaret has her heart set on illegitimate son and estate groom Nicholas Seaton, who went in search for his father years ago and never returned.
When Margaret tries to prevent Fred from dueling, she is shocked to meet John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, who looks just like Nicholas but denies having met him. Fred picks up on a connection between the two and becomes even more bullying and controlling towards Margaret. She finds herself stuck between the two men trying to prevent them from hurting each other.
Main character John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, has a secret history having grown up in Europe. I feel for him as the plot progresses and he is not able to tell Margaret the truth.
Secondary character squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was verbally assertive but suffered health challenges following her father’s death. Descriptions of her health I felt made her character come alive and be relatable. She is my favorite character of this story.
I felt this plot included some unique elements. The terrible lack of judgment and next level cynicism in the will added excellent dramatic effect. I particularly felt surprised and relieved by how Margaret’s closest friend Jane acted reminiscent to her lawyer in the early parts of the story. She certainly needed one as the plot progressed. The writing was captivating with thoroughly engaging dialogue and great character building. All this made me fly through the pages and wish for more.
The best part of this story was when Margaret tried to stop Fred’s duel by visiting his opponent. This serious surprise became the center of the plot. The effects of the will were by far the worst part.
The heart wrenching feelings between St. Clare and Margaret I felt were particularly well written. St. Clare offered Margaret 3 forfeits which I felt gave the story an element of fairy tale I’m sure would appeal to younger readers.
This unique story with several fresh elements would captivate readers of regency romance and fans of Mimi Matthews. Similar authors might be Michelle Griep or Erica Vetsch.
Thank you to publisher Perfectly Proper Press and for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions in this review are completely my own.
Conclusion: this unique regency romance includes captivating drama, legal issues, mystery and romance as St. Clare and Margaret tackle difficulties of secrecy, jealousy and revenge. I look forward to reading whatever Mimi Matthews releases next because of the enjoyable plots she comes up with.
Getleman Jim is the standalone regency romance by Mimi Matthews set in Somerset 1817 about squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell who has been left in control of her abusive guardian and neighbor Frederick Burton-Smythe. Through his will, her father forces her to marry Fred and have the estates joined or she will lose all her assets. But Margaret has her heart set on illegitimate son and estate groom Nicholas Seaton, who went in search for his father years ago and never returned.
When Margaret tries to prevent Fred from dueling, she is shocked to meet John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, who looks just like Nicholas but denies having met him. Fred picks up on a connection between the two and becomes even more bullying and controlling towards Margaret. She finds herself stuck between the two men trying to prevent them from hurting each other.
Main character John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, has a secret history having grown up in Europe. I feel for him as the plot progresses and he is not able to tell Margaret the truth.
Secondary character squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was verbally assertive but suffered health challenges following her father’s death. Descriptions of her health I felt made her character come alive and be relatable. She is my favorite character of this story.
I felt this plot included some unique elements. The terrible lack of judgment and next level cynicism in the will added excellent dramatic effect. I particularly felt surprised and relieved by how Margaret’s closest friend Jane acted reminiscent to her lawyer in the early parts of the story. She certainly needed one as the plot progressed. The writing was captivating with thoroughly engaging dialogue and great character building. All this made me fly through the pages and wish for more.
The best part of this story was when Margaret tried to stop Fred’s duel by visiting his opponent. This serious surprise became the center of the plot. The effects of the will were by far the worst part.
The heart wrenching feelings between St. Clare and Margaret I felt were particularly well written. St. Clare offered Margaret 3 forfeits which I felt gave the story an element of fairy tale I’m sure would appeal to younger readers.
This unique story with several fresh elements would captivate readers of regency romance and fans of Mimi Matthews. Similar authors might be Michelle Griep or Erica Vetsch.
Thank you to publisher Perfectly Proper Press and for this eARC which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions in this review are completely my own.
Conclusion: this unique regency romance includes captivating drama, legal issues, mystery and romance as St. Clare and Margaret tackle difficulties of secrecy, jealousy and revenge. I look forward to reading whatever Mimi Matthews releases next because of the enjoyable plots she comes up with.
March 21, 2023
Please listen to me: Jot this one down for when you feel like being gripped and unavoidably persuaded to neglect all responsibilities and dependents. Utterly consumed, I tell you.
Hold on to your bonnet ribbons, it’s a very swashbuckling childhood friends/soulmates second chance between the oft-abused rufian stableboy and the “high-spirited termagant” daughter of a wealthy squire. It’s like The Princess Bride, but instead of Dread Pirate Roberts, our young long-lost love is now a trigger-happy viscount with a mysterious reputation. And our devoted and brave raven-haired Buttercup can’t catch a break. If it wasn’t hard enough being a female in Regency times, enter fathers leaving wills to control you from beyond the grave and make sure you marry neighboring villainous ginger bullies. She’s traversing her predicament when unwittingly is thrown in with an earl’s heir who looks a lot like the boy she had to help escape all those years ago.
If ever there was a book boyfriend to steer me away from Team Dark-Haired Hero it is golden-crowned Lord St. Clare and his icy stare. Talk about Commanding Presence *fans oneself* The kind of twofer hero I love: an air of danger about him from his scrappy beginnings, but then all the current aristocratic power with the barely leashed posessiveness under his icy control. He is everything and more. And his Maggie is more than worthy of his long-standing adoration. I just love an epic second chance where the forced separation has changed them so, but then they just build depth on the original devotion.
High stakes all around, ballrooms to country taverns, daring and intrigue, snoring chaperones, amazing intense pacing, a constant, self-sacrificing love. You just might question yourself when next asked “Dark or fair hero?”. Pangs, palpitations and flutters, I enjoyed every minute of this hard-earned HEA. Plus this one gets an epilogue!
Second in the series, but stands completely alone.
Content notes: lots of kissing but kissing only. Have to say, little bit too much focus on her décolletage. Some time period coarse language. An attempted assault. Pistols abound, dueling, bar brawling, etc.
Hold on to your bonnet ribbons, it’s a very swashbuckling childhood friends/soulmates second chance between the oft-abused rufian stableboy and the “high-spirited termagant” daughter of a wealthy squire. It’s like The Princess Bride, but instead of Dread Pirate Roberts, our young long-lost love is now a trigger-happy viscount with a mysterious reputation. And our devoted and brave raven-haired Buttercup can’t catch a break. If it wasn’t hard enough being a female in Regency times, enter fathers leaving wills to control you from beyond the grave and make sure you marry neighboring villainous ginger bullies. She’s traversing her predicament when unwittingly is thrown in with an earl’s heir who looks a lot like the boy she had to help escape all those years ago.
If ever there was a book boyfriend to steer me away from Team Dark-Haired Hero it is golden-crowned Lord St. Clare and his icy stare. Talk about Commanding Presence *fans oneself* The kind of twofer hero I love: an air of danger about him from his scrappy beginnings, but then all the current aristocratic power with the barely leashed posessiveness under his icy control. He is everything and more. And his Maggie is more than worthy of his long-standing adoration. I just love an epic second chance where the forced separation has changed them so, but then they just build depth on the original devotion.
High stakes all around, ballrooms to country taverns, daring and intrigue, snoring chaperones, amazing intense pacing, a constant, self-sacrificing love. You just might question yourself when next asked “Dark or fair hero?”. Pangs, palpitations and flutters, I enjoyed every minute of this hard-earned HEA. Plus this one gets an epilogue!
Second in the series, but stands completely alone.
Content notes: lots of kissing but kissing only. Have to say, little bit too much focus on her décolletage. Some time period coarse language. An attempted assault. Pistols abound, dueling, bar brawling, etc.
August 12, 2023
I like the author and had picked up the book and set it down several times. It is loved by many, so I thought I just needed to give it another try. It was enjoyable but not anything that hasn't been done before (as the author pointed out in her end note). I guess I just knew what the story was going to be and since it's well written it kept me interested to the end. There was no ah ha! moment. The h waited for YEARS for the H to come back. Plus, the vengeance is rather tepid. I give it 3.5*
November 10, 2020
I opened this ebook to begin reading early in the morning, and I read it all in one day. I don't recall the last time I did that. It was very satisfying and rewarding.
This has parallels to The Count of Monte Cristo, and according to the author's note, Tom Jones. I have not read the latter so cannot comment on its parallels, but I could definitely see the influence of The Count of Monte Cristo. There was a false accusation and escape. A young love between two that think the world is at their hands and a jealous boy who would rip them apart. The hero comes back in an elevated position and an assumed name.
There were things that I questioned in this book and some plot holes I would have liked to see explored more, but ultimately I really enjoyed reading this. I was invested and wondering what would happen next. I believed in the love of the h&h and found the story compelling, exciting and satisfying. Besides telling a good story, Matthews does a good job at using the time period (Regency) as part of the story as well. I would recommend this book for someone in the mood for a bit of adventure/mystery with their romance.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book. This was my honest opinion.
This has parallels to The Count of Monte Cristo, and according to the author's note, Tom Jones. I have not read the latter so cannot comment on its parallels, but I could definitely see the influence of The Count of Monte Cristo. There was a false accusation and escape. A young love between two that think the world is at their hands and a jealous boy who would rip them apart. The hero comes back in an elevated position and an assumed name.
There were things that I questioned in this book and some plot holes I would have liked to see explored more, but ultimately I really enjoyed reading this. I was invested and wondering what would happen next. I believed in the love of the h&h and found the story compelling, exciting and satisfying. Besides telling a good story, Matthews does a good job at using the time period (Regency) as part of the story as well. I would recommend this book for someone in the mood for a bit of adventure/mystery with their romance.
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book. This was my honest opinion.
November 15, 2020
I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Mimi Matthews has a way of bringing my favorite gothic novels to life, in spirit if not in plot. Her books have a way of perfectly capturing all the mood and drama of gothic classics. If her Parish Orphans series reminded me of Jane Eyre, then Gentleman Jim was Wuthering Heights. Nicolas and Maggie’s story, their fated love, and tragic separation is so very reminiscent of Heathcliff and Cathy’s angsty romance. I read this in one sitting; by the time I was done I was startled to look up and realize it was morning already! And if that’s not enough to recommend a book I don’t know what is!
You Should Read This If You Like: gothic romances, friends to lovers OTP, fated lovers or soulmates, case of mistaken identity, persuasion by Jane Austen, etc.
Gentleman Jim is the love story of Nicolas Seaton, bastard son of legendary highwayman Gentleman Jim, and the wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell. The social disparity in their status and jealousy from Maggie’s most ardent suitor Fred, leads our lovers to separate and for Nicolas to flee the country and a death sentence. Fast forward to years later, Maggie is under Fred’s guardianship, wholly dependent on him. Nicolas is long since presumed dead. She longs to be free from Fred’s control and take ownership of her home. Amidst the turmoil of her life, enters John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, who bears a striking resemblance to her dead lover. Is the Viscount really Nicolas? And if so, why does he pretend to not know who she is?
Honestly, when we are first introduced to Nicolas and Maggie I didn’t really buy their relationship. It was evident from the first moment we see them, lying together in the grass and holding hands, all of 16 and so much in love. My main issue with this, as with most Mimi Mathews romances, is that so much of our initial understanding of these characters happens second hand. The reader is informed of Nicolas and Maggie’s lifelong friendship, despite their social disparity. Their differences in class means they both lead widely disparate lives. It is Nicolas who has to bear the weight of transgressing his social boundary while Maggie remains largely ignorant to the daily problems and prejudices he has to deal with.
This would have made for some excellent character foundation, except that most of this information is told to the reader via info dumping and exposition in the first couple of chapters. We are told Nicolas doesn't have enough money to marry and provide for Maggie. But we see next to nothing of the life he has had to live. Most of what we know of Nicolas, including his abusive relationship with his mother, we learn through exposition. It makes it very hard to understand how very impossible their relationship is and indeed when it is confronted, to then sympathize with it. I just wish the foundation of their relationship and their character didn’t happen offstage. In any case, it would have made their separation that much more tragic.
But that’s really my only major complaint. Because once the story gets moving, damn but it’s something to see! I loved everything about Maggie and Nicolas. Maggie with her quiet strength, learning to stand up for herself again and find that fighting spirit in a world that had broken her down was beautiful to read. I loved that she had friends to support her through her issues and give her some breathing room. Her meeting with the viscount, and their subsequent romance was part angst, part forbidden romance, and all sizzling chemistry! Seriously, these two could light a room with the amount of repressed sexual energy they have been hoarding for all these years!
I loved the mystery of it, even though it was pretty obvious from the get go. My favorite thing about this novel though, is the way both Nicolas and Maggie have to reconcile with the people they have now become as adults and adjust their lives accordingly. They lived as two parts of a whole and evolved as such, never losing their love for one another. And if that isn’t the best kind of fated love I don’t know what is!
I also appreciate that the stakes in this book feel very real and urgent. The villains do an excellent job of being threatening and a looming concern to our couple’s happily ever after.
The Gentleman Jim story was also another favorite! The whole highwayman story, just shrouded in mystery and intrigue, coupled with danger and drama always gets to me! This one was a cut above the rest, managing to be both dangerous and incredibly sexy at the same time. Mimi Mathews brought all my gothic fantasies to life and honestly, I couldn't have asked for more!
I do have a minor complaint about the cover. It just looks seriously terrible, and very wild west and not at all representative of the moody, gothic feel of this book! I just wished we had something to better show how freaking awesome this book is! 4 stars. Mimi Mathews has quickly become one of my favorite historical romance authors and I cannot wait to read more from her!
Mimi Matthews has a way of bringing my favorite gothic novels to life, in spirit if not in plot. Her books have a way of perfectly capturing all the mood and drama of gothic classics. If her Parish Orphans series reminded me of Jane Eyre, then Gentleman Jim was Wuthering Heights. Nicolas and Maggie’s story, their fated love, and tragic separation is so very reminiscent of Heathcliff and Cathy’s angsty romance. I read this in one sitting; by the time I was done I was startled to look up and realize it was morning already! And if that’s not enough to recommend a book I don’t know what is!
You Should Read This If You Like: gothic romances, friends to lovers OTP, fated lovers or soulmates, case of mistaken identity, persuasion by Jane Austen, etc.
Gentleman Jim is the love story of Nicolas Seaton, bastard son of legendary highwayman Gentleman Jim, and the wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell. The social disparity in their status and jealousy from Maggie’s most ardent suitor Fred, leads our lovers to separate and for Nicolas to flee the country and a death sentence. Fast forward to years later, Maggie is under Fred’s guardianship, wholly dependent on him. Nicolas is long since presumed dead. She longs to be free from Fred’s control and take ownership of her home. Amidst the turmoil of her life, enters John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, who bears a striking resemblance to her dead lover. Is the Viscount really Nicolas? And if so, why does he pretend to not know who she is?
Honestly, when we are first introduced to Nicolas and Maggie I didn’t really buy their relationship. It was evident from the first moment we see them, lying together in the grass and holding hands, all of 16 and so much in love. My main issue with this, as with most Mimi Mathews romances, is that so much of our initial understanding of these characters happens second hand. The reader is informed of Nicolas and Maggie’s lifelong friendship, despite their social disparity. Their differences in class means they both lead widely disparate lives. It is Nicolas who has to bear the weight of transgressing his social boundary while Maggie remains largely ignorant to the daily problems and prejudices he has to deal with.
This would have made for some excellent character foundation, except that most of this information is told to the reader via info dumping and exposition in the first couple of chapters. We are told Nicolas doesn't have enough money to marry and provide for Maggie. But we see next to nothing of the life he has had to live. Most of what we know of Nicolas, including his abusive relationship with his mother, we learn through exposition. It makes it very hard to understand how very impossible their relationship is and indeed when it is confronted, to then sympathize with it. I just wish the foundation of their relationship and their character didn’t happen offstage. In any case, it would have made their separation that much more tragic.
But that’s really my only major complaint. Because once the story gets moving, damn but it’s something to see! I loved everything about Maggie and Nicolas. Maggie with her quiet strength, learning to stand up for herself again and find that fighting spirit in a world that had broken her down was beautiful to read. I loved that she had friends to support her through her issues and give her some breathing room. Her meeting with the viscount, and their subsequent romance was part angst, part forbidden romance, and all sizzling chemistry! Seriously, these two could light a room with the amount of repressed sexual energy they have been hoarding for all these years!
I loved the mystery of it, even though it was pretty obvious from the get go. My favorite thing about this novel though, is the way both Nicolas and Maggie have to reconcile with the people they have now become as adults and adjust their lives accordingly. They lived as two parts of a whole and evolved as such, never losing their love for one another. And if that isn’t the best kind of fated love I don’t know what is!
I also appreciate that the stakes in this book feel very real and urgent. The villains do an excellent job of being threatening and a looming concern to our couple’s happily ever after.
The Gentleman Jim story was also another favorite! The whole highwayman story, just shrouded in mystery and intrigue, coupled with danger and drama always gets to me! This one was a cut above the rest, managing to be both dangerous and incredibly sexy at the same time. Mimi Mathews brought all my gothic fantasies to life and honestly, I couldn't have asked for more!
I do have a minor complaint about the cover. It just looks seriously terrible, and very wild west and not at all representative of the moody, gothic feel of this book! I just wished we had something to better show how freaking awesome this book is! 4 stars. Mimi Mathews has quickly become one of my favorite historical romance authors and I cannot wait to read more from her!
March 9, 2023
Despite the fact that I enjoyed this and te fact how frequently I updated my progress throughout the read, I feel rather unfulfilled. It wasn't to the point of disappointment but still, unfulfilled.
Sure, the book did hurt me in some ways. Believe it or not, I do love this kind of book because it's precisely what I desire when I read a book. Some things were funny, entertaining, also adorable but it still didn't fulfilled my heart to the point of satisfying. It was unfortunate and I supposed I did put a lot of expectations in this but don't blame me, I'm just too excited to read my very first arc book which is the third book in this series so I did rush myself to finish the first two books.
Throughout the read the book feels like climbing on a mountain and decde to finish the journey before reaching the summit. I think that's why I feel unfulfilled, the way how the climax resolve was way out of my expectation. Which is fine, I still enjoyed this book.
Other than that, the plot was great enough even though the execution was rather lacking. The author kinda made it up by filling a lot of engaging and thrilling scenes in the middle of the plot, there were adorable, sweet, even comical scenes. The timeline was okay, personally it all felt right to me. Nothing was too fast or dragging slow.
Now, the characters were top-notch. Though I do feel like St. Clare was a bit lacking but it was just a little bit, now that I think of it, it was probably because I didn't see how he evolved from one man to the other. And it was fine cause it didn't bother me that much. Now, Honeywell. Miss Margaret Honeywell. Maggie was just straight up badass and boss girl. She's just truly her, unafraid, fearless, unshakable. I loved that! Especially in a historical time background where usually the fmc is always sweet, gentle, and sometimes weak. But Maggie is none of that, it was refreshing. The side characters were also great, they did support their own roles for both mcs, nothing felt misplaced or unnecessary or forced. I truly love character development from Mimi Matthews.
Would I recommend this to you? I mean if you're willing to give this series a try, I would say why not. But since this series could be read as a standalone book, I would also say I think it's better to use the time to read something else. But hey, if you read this review and still would like to try it, go ahead!
I should probably include some tropes that I found in this book. This is a second chance romance with a mix of friends to lovers and secret identity.
So yeah, 3 stars for this book. It's a great book really, but as I always said every time, I read book to feel something and this book didn't make me feel 100% 🥲
NOW ON TO THE ARC 🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
Sure, the book did hurt me in some ways. Believe it or not, I do love this kind of book because it's precisely what I desire when I read a book. Some things were funny, entertaining, also adorable but it still didn't fulfilled my heart to the point of satisfying. It was unfortunate and I supposed I did put a lot of expectations in this but don't blame me, I'm just too excited to read my very first arc book which is the third book in this series so I did rush myself to finish the first two books.
Throughout the read the book feels like climbing on a mountain and decde to finish the journey before reaching the summit. I think that's why I feel unfulfilled, the way how the climax resolve was way out of my expectation. Which is fine, I still enjoyed this book.
Other than that, the plot was great enough even though the execution was rather lacking. The author kinda made it up by filling a lot of engaging and thrilling scenes in the middle of the plot, there were adorable, sweet, even comical scenes. The timeline was okay, personally it all felt right to me. Nothing was too fast or dragging slow.
Now, the characters were top-notch. Though I do feel like St. Clare was a bit lacking but it was just a little bit, now that I think of it, it was probably because I didn't see how he evolved from one man to the other. And it was fine cause it didn't bother me that much. Now, Honeywell. Miss Margaret Honeywell. Maggie was just straight up badass and boss girl. She's just truly her, unafraid, fearless, unshakable. I loved that! Especially in a historical time background where usually the fmc is always sweet, gentle, and sometimes weak. But Maggie is none of that, it was refreshing. The side characters were also great, they did support their own roles for both mcs, nothing felt misplaced or unnecessary or forced. I truly love character development from Mimi Matthews.
Would I recommend this to you? I mean if you're willing to give this series a try, I would say why not. But since this series could be read as a standalone book, I would also say I think it's better to use the time to read something else. But hey, if you read this review and still would like to try it, go ahead!
I should probably include some tropes that I found in this book. This is a second chance romance with a mix of friends to lovers and secret identity.
So yeah, 3 stars for this book. It's a great book really, but as I always said every time, I read book to feel something and this book didn't make me feel 100% 🥲
NOW ON TO THE ARC 🥳🥳🥳🥳🥳
December 9, 2020
4.5 STARS
And... she does it again! Mimi Matthews never fails me. Excellent writing, an intriguing story, and pure unadulterated romance. Would have liked to see a little more conflict between the two... yes it was almost too perfect, this love between Nicholas and Maggie, but I was still glued to the pages. (Or should I say Alex Wyndham's velvety voice!). Fabulous audiobook.
"Tomorrow is yours," he vowed. "All of my tomorrows."
And... she does it again! Mimi Matthews never fails me. Excellent writing, an intriguing story, and pure unadulterated romance. Would have liked to see a little more conflict between the two... yes it was almost too perfect, this love between Nicholas and Maggie, but I was still glued to the pages. (Or should I say Alex Wyndham's velvety voice!). Fabulous audiobook.
November 12, 2020
Like THE WORK OF ART, one of my favorite of Matthews' HRs, this new story is a Regency, as opposed to the majority of her stories set in the Victorian era. And, like TWoA, this one was written some time ago but picked up again by her for polishing and publishing. We are all glad she did.
Matthews tells us that Gentleman Jim was inspired both by Dumas' THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO and Fielding's TOM JONES, and this is obvious to the reader as the story progresses. This is a lovely romantic read, although there were a few things about it that disappointed me, which I'll get to in a spoiler at the end of the review. First to the good and the very good. This is one of Matthews' better HRs as far as intricacy of plot and warmth of the romance. The characters are also somewhat less earnest and serious than her last entries in the Parish Orphans series, so it was more fun to read this one. Not that it's a comedy, of course. It's just that the characters were less dull and good. Yes, I know that being good is good but, let's face it, it's also slightly boring in HRs. I like a little bit of sass to personalities.
It's probably best not to talk about the plot. Everybody gets the gist from the book description. There's a certain "Is he or isn't he?" element for a short period of time, such that the heroine starts to doubt herself about the hero, but that resolves itself very quickly. You'll have the revenge plot from Monte Cristo, a pair of star-crossed young lovers who may now have a second chance, and an entertaining cast of varied characters to enjoy as you read. And the romance is warmer than usual for a Matthews HR, without crossing the line that many readers draw about how much physical love should be expressed on paper. All in all, this is a satisfying read for romance lovers.
Now comes the SPOILER, so you are warned. The romance is lovely but flawed. Here's the flaw. Maggie and Nicholas are young and innocent lovers. He's the bastard son of a "loose" woman and, it is believed, the highwayman Gentleman Jim. He is lower class. She's genteel. He's only able to read and has learned other social skills because Maggie taught him these. But their love is strong and true and pure. When Nicholas is beaten up and accused of theft and in danger of being arrested, Maggie rescues him and he flees, vowing to return for her when he can. Vowing. He promises this. A very sincere vow and promise.
So what troubled me about him is the fact that when he does return ten years later he makes absolutely no effort to find her and get in touch with her. Their renewed connection happens through an action on Maggie's part. Maggie seems very willing to forgive this breaking of his vow but I was indignant and couldn't quite forgive and forget. If not for Maggie, they might never have found their eventual HEA. He was too busy plotting revenge and on keeping his new place in society. That was a major fail. Don't tell me to get over it. I just can't. So many words of love expressed to her, such as, for example, that not a day went by that he didn't think of her during those 10 years, that he lived just for her. But when push came to shove, he was all "think" and little "do". End of SPOILER.
Maybe I had better forgive him anyway. It is time for forgiveness and healing in my world, so I had better include my Romanceworld also.
Matthews tells us that Gentleman Jim was inspired both by Dumas' THE COUNT OF MONTE CRISTO and Fielding's TOM JONES, and this is obvious to the reader as the story progresses. This is a lovely romantic read, although there were a few things about it that disappointed me, which I'll get to in a spoiler at the end of the review. First to the good and the very good. This is one of Matthews' better HRs as far as intricacy of plot and warmth of the romance. The characters are also somewhat less earnest and serious than her last entries in the Parish Orphans series, so it was more fun to read this one. Not that it's a comedy, of course. It's just that the characters were less dull and good. Yes, I know that being good is good but, let's face it, it's also slightly boring in HRs. I like a little bit of sass to personalities.
It's probably best not to talk about the plot. Everybody gets the gist from the book description. There's a certain "Is he or isn't he?" element for a short period of time, such that the heroine starts to doubt herself about the hero, but that resolves itself very quickly. You'll have the revenge plot from Monte Cristo, a pair of star-crossed young lovers who may now have a second chance, and an entertaining cast of varied characters to enjoy as you read. And the romance is warmer than usual for a Matthews HR, without crossing the line that many readers draw about how much physical love should be expressed on paper. All in all, this is a satisfying read for romance lovers.
Now comes the SPOILER, so you are warned. The romance is lovely but flawed. Here's the flaw. Maggie and Nicholas are young and innocent lovers. He's the bastard son of a "loose" woman and, it is believed, the highwayman Gentleman Jim. He is lower class. She's genteel. He's only able to read and has learned other social skills because Maggie taught him these. But their love is strong and true and pure. When Nicholas is beaten up and accused of theft and in danger of being arrested, Maggie rescues him and he flees, vowing to return for her when he can. Vowing. He promises this. A very sincere vow and promise.
So what troubled me about him is the fact that when he does return ten years later he makes absolutely no effort to find her and get in touch with her. Their renewed connection happens through an action on Maggie's part. Maggie seems very willing to forgive this breaking of his vow but I was indignant and couldn't quite forgive and forget. If not for Maggie, they might never have found their eventual HEA. He was too busy plotting revenge and on keeping his new place in society. That was a major fail. Don't tell me to get over it. I just can't. So many words of love expressed to her, such as, for example, that not a day went by that he didn't think of her during those 10 years, that he lived just for her. But when push came to shove, he was all "think" and little "do". End of SPOILER.
Maybe I had better forgive him anyway. It is time for forgiveness and healing in my world, so I had better include my Romanceworld also.
October 31, 2020
5 perfect ⭐️
You know the sad feeling you get when your favorite author gives you her latest book and you finish it?? And you’re wondering how you can possibly read anything else?? That’s mmmeeee! How can anything compare??
It was wonderful. Her best work yet! But who am I kidding, all of her books are excellent! Matthews has done it again! *Sigh* I. Loved. It. A passionate, heartfelt, historical romance with all the things I love.... friendship, chemistry, angst, long glances and passionate kisses.
A romantic connection that cannot be explained, only felt!
Reading Matthews books are always a pleasure. The characters were well-developed and I can’t express enough how much I love the writing. If you’re like me, you will love it from beginning to end.
Quote from the book:
“His concerned gaze moved over her face. Every curve and contour was as precious to him as his own life.” 💗
This book lived up to the hype. It also had a exhilarating scene (brawl) that reminded me of the movie, The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne. Anybody else see this oldie? I can’t say enough how special this was. I wish so badly it could be made into a movie. I highly recommend this book. Ok, I’m done I think. I’m a happy girl. Thank you Mimi Matthews for blessing me with this precious book. Thank you for all of them.
Please don’t pass up this special gem, romance reader. I purchased my copy months ago. Happy Reading.
“There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state with another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness.”
-Edmond Dantès, Count of Monte Cristo.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ♥️
You know the sad feeling you get when your favorite author gives you her latest book and you finish it?? And you’re wondering how you can possibly read anything else?? That’s mmmeeee! How can anything compare??
It was wonderful. Her best work yet! But who am I kidding, all of her books are excellent! Matthews has done it again! *Sigh* I. Loved. It. A passionate, heartfelt, historical romance with all the things I love.... friendship, chemistry, angst, long glances and passionate kisses.
A romantic connection that cannot be explained, only felt!
Reading Matthews books are always a pleasure. The characters were well-developed and I can’t express enough how much I love the writing. If you’re like me, you will love it from beginning to end.
Quote from the book:
“His concerned gaze moved over her face. Every curve and contour was as precious to him as his own life.” 💗
This book lived up to the hype. It also had a exhilarating scene (brawl) that reminded me of the movie, The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne. Anybody else see this oldie? I can’t say enough how special this was. I wish so badly it could be made into a movie. I highly recommend this book. Ok, I’m done I think. I’m a happy girl. Thank you Mimi Matthews for blessing me with this precious book. Thank you for all of them.
Please don’t pass up this special gem, romance reader. I purchased my copy months ago. Happy Reading.
“There is neither happiness nor misery in the world; there is only the comparison of one state with another, nothing more. He who has felt the deepest grief is best able to experience supreme happiness.”
-Edmond Dantès, Count of Monte Cristo.
Thank you NETGALLEY and the publisher for this ARC, in exchange for my honest review. ♥️
December 11, 2020
Well, I'll be in minority here because I didn't find this book all that good... Please don't hate me!
I found the heroine, Margaret, all that interesting and clever! She just couldn't comprehend why the hero would not admit who he was!!! Really???!!!
And Beresford (Nicholas)... well instead of admiting it to her and telling her to keep it secret, just pretended and denied...
So, their actions (and interactions) did not make sense to me!
Also the story about the revenge... where was it? What revenge?
And that make me like less the book.
I found the heroine, Margaret, all that interesting and clever! She just couldn't comprehend why the hero would not admit who he was!!! Really???!!!
And Beresford (Nicholas)... well instead of admiting it to her and telling her to keep it secret, just pretended and denied...
So, their actions (and interactions) did not make sense to me!
Also the story about the revenge... where was it? What revenge?
And that make me like less the book.
August 28, 2020
Oh My.....My Gosh.....Dang Girl! Man alive that was a good romance! Swooning, sighing and so happy and sad it's done. Mimi out did herself with this one. There was tension and romance on every page. I never felt for one moment I was not getting thoroughly entertained. I did not want to put this down, I was so mad when I had to go to work. Set this aside if you have that kind of will power and wait till you have a whole Sunday or Saturday to read this. I have loved almost all of Mimi's books, but this is by far my favorite. The two leading characters were so well done. The love story pulls you in from the first pages and doesn't let you go. I was so worried and really wondering at one point and then it all began to click together and I could see how it would all work out. It is a rare author that can get me to feel stressed that things won't work out. I also love how real it all is that you can see that everything won't be sunshine and roses but if the choose they can make the best of it. So wonderful! I can't say enough good:} Mimi if you ever need a cheerleader just message me girl, you are a new favorite of mine.
November 14, 2020
Anybody want to read a deliciously delightful kissing book? With adventure? And mystery?
I just finished Mimi Matthews upcoming release, Gentleman Jim, and I’m still holding on to the power of the swoon. This book had so many things I love best in great books: intriguing characters, mystery, adventure, romance, as well as some gunplay, near-death experiences, and people you love to hate. The emotion in this story held me so strongly that I quelled with uncertainty from chapter nine up to nearly the end.
The love story was wonderful. If you’re not a fan of lots of love-talk and kissing, this book will likely not be for you, but since I drink up love and kissing talk like St. Clare did the sight of Maggie’s face, then I was happily satisfied. To have two people who so wholly love each other is the sweetest, most disarming beauty, and these two characters do! And as much as I wanted to get to the end, I didn’t want to get to the end, because the journey was such a wonderful adventure from secret rendezvous to tavern brawls to highwaymen and so much more.
Maggie was not a wallflower. Though she may have been physically weak, her determination, wit, and temper sparkle off the page so that we’re cheering for her happiness after her unwavering faithfulness to her lost love. St. Clare is wonderfully roguish, gentlemanly, and utterly disarming, his own heart a wealth of feeling and desire that he’s clamped beneath hurt and duty.
I’ll just say a few extra things here. That first kiss!!!! A music-less waltz! Excellent banter! Heart melting kisses! Dangerous duals. Did I mention the kisses?
And, as a reader, I wanted these to kiss and kiss often, because they definitely seemed to know how! But much deeper than the kisses are the real affection Matthews so beautifully portrays between these two. Their inextricable bond.
Thank you! Thank you, Mimi Matthews, for bringing Maggie and St. Clare alive on the page! I ordered a paper copy to have on my re-read shelf and am looking forward to indulging again in this wonderful story!
I just finished Mimi Matthews upcoming release, Gentleman Jim, and I’m still holding on to the power of the swoon. This book had so many things I love best in great books: intriguing characters, mystery, adventure, romance, as well as some gunplay, near-death experiences, and people you love to hate. The emotion in this story held me so strongly that I quelled with uncertainty from chapter nine up to nearly the end.
The love story was wonderful. If you’re not a fan of lots of love-talk and kissing, this book will likely not be for you, but since I drink up love and kissing talk like St. Clare did the sight of Maggie’s face, then I was happily satisfied. To have two people who so wholly love each other is the sweetest, most disarming beauty, and these two characters do! And as much as I wanted to get to the end, I didn’t want to get to the end, because the journey was such a wonderful adventure from secret rendezvous to tavern brawls to highwaymen and so much more.
Maggie was not a wallflower. Though she may have been physically weak, her determination, wit, and temper sparkle off the page so that we’re cheering for her happiness after her unwavering faithfulness to her lost love. St. Clare is wonderfully roguish, gentlemanly, and utterly disarming, his own heart a wealth of feeling and desire that he’s clamped beneath hurt and duty.
I’ll just say a few extra things here. That first kiss!!!! A music-less waltz! Excellent banter! Heart melting kisses! Dangerous duals. Did I mention the kisses?
And, as a reader, I wanted these to kiss and kiss often, because they definitely seemed to know how! But much deeper than the kisses are the real affection Matthews so beautifully portrays between these two. Their inextricable bond.
Thank you! Thank you, Mimi Matthews, for bringing Maggie and St. Clare alive on the page! I ordered a paper copy to have on my re-read shelf and am looking forward to indulging again in this wonderful story!
August 23, 2020
I would give this book more stars if I could. Not since I first discovered Georgette Heyer have I been so enthralled with a Regency romance novel. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish! The first chapter grabs you immediately, carries you along with it and never wanes.
The romance is wonderful. Maggie is a lovely, loyal person and I cried and laughed with her all the way. Viscount St Clare is delicious! The only way I can describe him. These two have a tough road to travel to be together. There are many dangers along the way and at every turn someone is trying to stop them.
If you love Regency romance you can't afford to miss this one. I'd highly recommend it!
The romance is wonderful. Maggie is a lovely, loyal person and I cried and laughed with her all the way. Viscount St Clare is delicious! The only way I can describe him. These two have a tough road to travel to be together. There are many dangers along the way and at every turn someone is trying to stop them.
If you love Regency romance you can't afford to miss this one. I'd highly recommend it!
March 25, 2023
Reread update 2023: I'm still in love with this story and couple!
Gentleman Jim is a thrilling Regency adventure that’s one part hope, one part daring, and one part hopelessly romantic. This twist on a tale of revenge spins a Count of Monte Cristo-esque trope of secret identities and the clash of formidable adversaries with true love in the balance.
The hero, St. Clare, is at once capable, bold, and swoon worthy with a deep well of unabashed emotion he reveals only to the heroine. Likewise, Maggie fulfills her role as heroine with a balance of spunk, femininity, and a daring personality as she holds her own in the drawing room and brandishing a pistol. Their romance is full of spark and undercurrents of tension, born of their fantastic chemistry and the many layers of history each character brings to the story. It’s the kind of story you wish you could read again for the first time, discovering the surprises and enjoying the beautiful turns of phrase along the way.
I enjoyed Matthews’ return to the Regency setting for this novel, where duels, waltzes, and horseback riding abound with surprising twists of action and challenges to inheritance. Naturally threaded in this story are important themes of hope, home, and the power of truth leading to justice. But I’d recommend reading it for the clean-yet-amazingly-sexy friends-to-more romance alone 😉
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
Gentleman Jim is a thrilling Regency adventure that’s one part hope, one part daring, and one part hopelessly romantic. This twist on a tale of revenge spins a Count of Monte Cristo-esque trope of secret identities and the clash of formidable adversaries with true love in the balance.
The hero, St. Clare, is at once capable, bold, and swoon worthy with a deep well of unabashed emotion he reveals only to the heroine. Likewise, Maggie fulfills her role as heroine with a balance of spunk, femininity, and a daring personality as she holds her own in the drawing room and brandishing a pistol. Their romance is full of spark and undercurrents of tension, born of their fantastic chemistry and the many layers of history each character brings to the story. It’s the kind of story you wish you could read again for the first time, discovering the surprises and enjoying the beautiful turns of phrase along the way.
I enjoyed Matthews’ return to the Regency setting for this novel, where duels, waltzes, and horseback riding abound with surprising twists of action and challenges to inheritance. Naturally threaded in this story are important themes of hope, home, and the power of truth leading to justice. But I’d recommend reading it for the clean-yet-amazingly-sexy friends-to-more romance alone 😉
Thank you to the publisher for the review copy. This is my honest review.
January 28, 2022
Audio - 4.5 Stars
Story - 2 Stars
Story - 2 Stars
August 30, 2020
Mimi Matthews has more talent in her little finger than most writers can eek out in a lifetime. Her stories are always super entertaining, compelling, and swoony; Gentleman Jim is no different. This book has all the elements a reader looks for and then some. I will note, however, a slight trigger warning for some. Because of the Count of Monte Cristo themes, there is some gaslighting going on by the hero to the heroine. This made me slightly uncomfortable, although I knew why he did it. But for someone that’s been a victim of gaslighting before, they may have a problem with this element of the book.
October 19, 2020
Count me as one of Mimi Matthews' die-hard fans! Gentleman Jim was fantastic...I'm pretty sure I read it in one day. (Yay for Saturday reading!) I loved how the story kept me guessing (one minute I was sure I knew what was up with the hero and the next minute I was all, "But wait...hmm...I don't know...") and it was paced so well. I so appreciate a story in which the plot moves along quickly enough to keep you turning pages but slows down in poignant moments to let you savor the romance and/or the emotional journey of the characters. And speaking of romance, this one has it in spades and it. is. splendid. LOVED IT!!
March 12, 2025
Second chance romance, childhood friend meet again after years apart.
Nicholas is the grandson of an Earls , with a secret past. She is a lady , who is being forced to marry a horrible man, so she can keep her home and inheritance.
Nicholas is the grandson of an Earls , with a secret past. She is a lady , who is being forced to marry a horrible man, so she can keep her home and inheritance.
November 12, 2020
Is there anything more satisfying than reading a gripping novel from start to finish is one sitting?! I absolutely loved being able to binge read Gentleman Jim and felt totally immersed in the story. I loved the depth of friendship in Nicholas and Maggie's youth, and they practically jumped off the page. They both changed drastically over time, but their core personalities are the same, allowing them to reignite that connection. The author skillfully reveals the most vulnerable parts of Nicholas that only Maggie can soothe, bringing layers to both characters that make them soulmates. Complex family relationships work to keep them apart, making it seem as though they cannot have a future together without sacrificing everything. I enjoyed the elements of intrigue, revenge, and the plot twists that kept me glued to the page, as well as the passionate romance. One of my favorites of 2020 for sure. Highly recommend!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
September 5, 2020
3.75/5.
Growing up, Maggie Honeywell and Nicholas Seaton always had each other's back. Their differences in social status (she, the daughter of wealthy squire, and he, a lowly baseborn groom) never stood in the way of their firm friendship-turned-romantic love. A malicious accusation of theft by a petty, jealous bully finally tore the two apart, but Nicholas promised he would come back for her and so she waited. For ten years she waited, rejecting all suitors and defying her father's wish for her to marry the neighbour's son, Fred Burton-Smythe, the odious man responsible for Nicholas's exile. However, time is running out because thanks to her father's oppressive will, Fred has been left in charge of her beloved estate and funds until she marries. Only problem is that her marriage must take place within the next 6 months and be approved by Fred, and the only suitor he will ever approve of is himself.
Maggie heads off to London in a last ditch attempt to find a way out of her predicament. While she despises the loathsome and small-minded Fred with a passion, killing him is not going to solve her crisis, because the estate will default to a distant male relative. So she was most unimpressed when she finds out that an enigmatic viscount, newly arrived from the continent, has engaged Fred in a duel. Drastic measures must be taken to stop the duel and Maggie is just the person up to the task. A prolonged illness has left her a weak and pale version of her previous vibrant self, but where she is now lacking in physical stamina, she more than makes up for it in fortitude and intrepidity.
When John Beresford, Viscount St Clare, accepted the challenge of a country nobody to a duel, he did not expect have a petite, winsome fury scandalously knocking on his door to plea the case of said unworthy nobody. Maggie is beyond his wildest dreams and yearnings and he has had many wild dreams and unfulfilled yearnings for far too many years. But he is his grandfather's heir to a powerful earldom and he cannot allow himself to deviate from his hard-fought goal. Although Maggie might just have shifted those goal posts by a large margin and his disorientation is not helped by her insistence that he is the exact image of her erstwhile youthful first love.
In my opinion, this is the closest Mimi Matthews has come to writing popular HR, because up to this point, her characters are often ordinary unglamorous people and her settings had been away from the ton and fancy ballrooms. This is also more light-hearted than some of her other straight and somewhat gloomy stories. I definitely welcome the humour which I have missed in most of her other books.
Unless...Are you saying that your conduct at dawn hinges on whether or not Mr. Burton-Smythe can refrain from irritating you?" She was incredulous. "If that is so, then he's as good as dead."
There are some gaps in the plot. The concept of the three forfeits was silly and unnecessary. The plot also got quite predictable and a bit cheesy towards the end and cheesiness is not a criticism that is usually applicable to the work of this esteemed author. Still, it is an enjoyable read and the writing is of high standard as expected.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley.
Growing up, Maggie Honeywell and Nicholas Seaton always had each other's back. Their differences in social status (she, the daughter of wealthy squire, and he, a lowly baseborn groom) never stood in the way of their firm friendship-turned-romantic love. A malicious accusation of theft by a petty, jealous bully finally tore the two apart, but Nicholas promised he would come back for her and so she waited. For ten years she waited, rejecting all suitors and defying her father's wish for her to marry the neighbour's son, Fred Burton-Smythe, the odious man responsible for Nicholas's exile. However, time is running out because thanks to her father's oppressive will, Fred has been left in charge of her beloved estate and funds until she marries. Only problem is that her marriage must take place within the next 6 months and be approved by Fred, and the only suitor he will ever approve of is himself.
Maggie heads off to London in a last ditch attempt to find a way out of her predicament. While she despises the loathsome and small-minded Fred with a passion, killing him is not going to solve her crisis, because the estate will default to a distant male relative. So she was most unimpressed when she finds out that an enigmatic viscount, newly arrived from the continent, has engaged Fred in a duel. Drastic measures must be taken to stop the duel and Maggie is just the person up to the task. A prolonged illness has left her a weak and pale version of her previous vibrant self, but where she is now lacking in physical stamina, she more than makes up for it in fortitude and intrepidity.
When John Beresford, Viscount St Clare, accepted the challenge of a country nobody to a duel, he did not expect have a petite, winsome fury scandalously knocking on his door to plea the case of said unworthy nobody. Maggie is beyond his wildest dreams and yearnings and he has had many wild dreams and unfulfilled yearnings for far too many years. But he is his grandfather's heir to a powerful earldom and he cannot allow himself to deviate from his hard-fought goal. Although Maggie might just have shifted those goal posts by a large margin and his disorientation is not helped by her insistence that he is the exact image of her erstwhile youthful first love.
In my opinion, this is the closest Mimi Matthews has come to writing popular HR, because up to this point, her characters are often ordinary unglamorous people and her settings had been away from the ton and fancy ballrooms. This is also more light-hearted than some of her other straight and somewhat gloomy stories. I definitely welcome the humour which I have missed in most of her other books.
Unless...Are you saying that your conduct at dawn hinges on whether or not Mr. Burton-Smythe can refrain from irritating you?" She was incredulous. "If that is so, then he's as good as dead."
There are some gaps in the plot. The concept of the three forfeits was silly and unnecessary. The plot also got quite predictable and a bit cheesy towards the end and cheesiness is not a criticism that is usually applicable to the work of this esteemed author. Still, it is an enjoyable read and the writing is of high standard as expected.
This is an ARC provided by NetGalley.
September 24, 2020
'She couldn’t forget…
Wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was always meant to marry her neighbor, Frederick Burton-Smythe, but it’s bastard-born Nicholas Seaton who has her heart. Raised alongside her on her father’s estate, Nicholas is the rumored son of notorious highwayman Gentleman Jim. When Fred frames him for theft, Nicholas escapes into the night, vowing to find his legendary sire. But Nicholas never returns. A decade later, he’s long been presumed dead.
He wouldn’t forgive…
After years spent on the continent, John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has finally come home to England. Tall, blond, and dangerous, he’s on a mission to restore his family’s honor. If he can mete out a bit of revenge along the way, so much the better. But he hasn’t reckoned for Maggie Honeywell. She’s bold and beautiful—and entirely convinced he’s someone else.
As danger closes in, St. Clare is torn between love and vengeance. Will he sacrifice one to gain the other? Or with a little luck—and a lot of daring—will he find a way to have them both?'
___________________________
Gentleman Jim is a stand-alone novel by Mimi Matthews and is a historical fiction which takes place in England.
I loved this book. I have said it about each and every one of Mimi Matthews' books, but Gentleman Jim is quite unique from the other books she has previously published and so holds a special place in my heart. This is largely because of the sense of adventure threaded through the book and I'm a sucker for a historical adventure. So pairing that with Matthew's writing style and I was hooked. I believe it may be a tie between A Convenient Fiction and Gentleman Jim as my favorite of the books she has written.
The tension of this book is introduced in the first few pages and holds stong throughout the book. And by tension I mean both between our two main characters and the conflct of the story. I adored Maggie, she had the perfect balance of strength and independence against her vulnerablilty. And Nicholas? He felt like such an emigma, to the extent that he even left Maggie guessing and I was so invested in getting the answers to all the questions he was raising. Working extra and doing so from home as I was while reading this book, it was hard to be responsible and not read during my working hours to learn how everything would come together.
Gentleman Jim is very different from Mimi Matthews' other books, but you will recognize it as her writing through the elegant writing style and the strength of her characters. I recommend this book to all historical fiction readers. As always I am looking forward to her next book and I very much hope we'll see more books like this one by her in the future.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Mimi Matthews for sharing an eARC of Gentleman Jim with me. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was always meant to marry her neighbor, Frederick Burton-Smythe, but it’s bastard-born Nicholas Seaton who has her heart. Raised alongside her on her father’s estate, Nicholas is the rumored son of notorious highwayman Gentleman Jim. When Fred frames him for theft, Nicholas escapes into the night, vowing to find his legendary sire. But Nicholas never returns. A decade later, he’s long been presumed dead.
He wouldn’t forgive…
After years spent on the continent, John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has finally come home to England. Tall, blond, and dangerous, he’s on a mission to restore his family’s honor. If he can mete out a bit of revenge along the way, so much the better. But he hasn’t reckoned for Maggie Honeywell. She’s bold and beautiful—and entirely convinced he’s someone else.
As danger closes in, St. Clare is torn between love and vengeance. Will he sacrifice one to gain the other? Or with a little luck—and a lot of daring—will he find a way to have them both?'
___________________________
Gentleman Jim is a stand-alone novel by Mimi Matthews and is a historical fiction which takes place in England.
I loved this book. I have said it about each and every one of Mimi Matthews' books, but Gentleman Jim is quite unique from the other books she has previously published and so holds a special place in my heart. This is largely because of the sense of adventure threaded through the book and I'm a sucker for a historical adventure. So pairing that with Matthew's writing style and I was hooked. I believe it may be a tie between A Convenient Fiction and Gentleman Jim as my favorite of the books she has written.
The tension of this book is introduced in the first few pages and holds stong throughout the book. And by tension I mean both between our two main characters and the conflct of the story. I adored Maggie, she had the perfect balance of strength and independence against her vulnerablilty. And Nicholas? He felt like such an emigma, to the extent that he even left Maggie guessing and I was so invested in getting the answers to all the questions he was raising. Working extra and doing so from home as I was while reading this book, it was hard to be responsible and not read during my working hours to learn how everything would come together.
Gentleman Jim is very different from Mimi Matthews' other books, but you will recognize it as her writing through the elegant writing style and the strength of her characters. I recommend this book to all historical fiction readers. As always I am looking forward to her next book and I very much hope we'll see more books like this one by her in the future.
_____
I would like to thank the author, Mimi Matthews for sharing an eARC of Gentleman Jim with me. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 9, 2020
SWEET SECOND CHANCE HISTORICAL ROMANCE
Actual rating: 3.5 ⭐
This is my third Mimi Matthews novel and while she maintains a high standard, I found myself less intrigued by this than the other two, I had read. Still, I very much enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to others, who are fans of clean historical romance.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Second chance: I am a sucker for second chance romances, and this one was especially great because it also featured childhood love and two characters from different social statuses. It was interesting, that they were parted against their will and managed to find their way back to each other in spite of all the difficulties.
Maggie: Maggie was a really great character. She was fleshed out, who felt both vulnerable and strong. I liked that she had a physically weak body but an agile and quick mind. It was an interesting juxtaposition.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Something more: This is so mean, but I just can't help it. I needed something more from this book. I don't know more of what. I just wasn't wowed by it, like I was with other Matthews books.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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Blog Post: 15 Books to Read if You Love Jane Austen
Actual rating: 3.5 ⭐
This is my third Mimi Matthews novel and while she maintains a high standard, I found myself less intrigued by this than the other two, I had read. Still, I very much enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to others, who are fans of clean historical romance.
👍 What I Liked 👍
Second chance: I am a sucker for second chance romances, and this one was especially great because it also featured childhood love and two characters from different social statuses. It was interesting, that they were parted against their will and managed to find their way back to each other in spite of all the difficulties.
Maggie: Maggie was a really great character. She was fleshed out, who felt both vulnerable and strong. I liked that she had a physically weak body but an agile and quick mind. It was an interesting juxtaposition.
👎 What I Disliked 👎
Something more: This is so mean, but I just can't help it. I needed something more from this book. I don't know more of what. I just wasn't wowed by it, like I was with other Matthews books.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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August 23, 2020
Yesterday I was blessed by the NetGalley gods and Perfectly Proper Press with an e-ARC of Mimi Matthews’s new Regency Romance, Gentleman Jim.
This was my first Mimi Matthews, and certainly not my last. For the past few months I’d been kind of circling her work, but not really diving in because I am a shameless hussy who loves smut and I had heard her books are *clean*. I really enjoy her Twitter presence, and her depth of knowledge on the Victorian era, but I just could not move past the lack of smut.
Wow do I feel stupid currently for having put off her books for so long. Gentleman Jim was such a joy for me! I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump for the past few weeks, and have been unable to get interested enough to finish any of the books I’ve been picking up lately. That was not the case with Gentleman Jim; I was immediately sucked in and in fact getting really annoyed at anyone that needed my attention and made me book down the book.
I adored all of the references to The Count of Monte Cristo and The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling. Not to mention both the heroine and hero had amazing chemistry and depth, I felt they leapt off the page!
I’m going to re-read and then come back with a bit of a longer post really getting into the nitty-gritty, as we get closer to the publication date.
I was provided an ARC by NetGalley and Perfectly Proper Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This was my first Mimi Matthews, and certainly not my last. For the past few months I’d been kind of circling her work, but not really diving in because I am a shameless hussy who loves smut and I had heard her books are *clean*. I really enjoy her Twitter presence, and her depth of knowledge on the Victorian era, but I just could not move past the lack of smut.
Wow do I feel stupid currently for having put off her books for so long. Gentleman Jim was such a joy for me! I’ve been in a bit of a reading slump for the past few weeks, and have been unable to get interested enough to finish any of the books I’ve been picking up lately. That was not the case with Gentleman Jim; I was immediately sucked in and in fact getting really annoyed at anyone that needed my attention and made me book down the book.
I adored all of the references to The Count of Monte Cristo and The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling. Not to mention both the heroine and hero had amazing chemistry and depth, I felt they leapt off the page!
I’m going to re-read and then come back with a bit of a longer post really getting into the nitty-gritty, as we get closer to the publication date.
I was provided an ARC by NetGalley and Perfectly Proper Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 14, 2024
I have loved every one of Mimi Matthews’ books I have read, and GENTLEMAN JIM is no exception. She skillfully blends an exciting story of mystery, revenge and intrigue with an emotionally charged second-chance love story.
The way that Ms. Matthews conveys the inseparable bond between the young Maggie and Nicholas in the Prologue is so beautifully done. I loved Nicolas’ gentle teasing:
“…I never do what?”
“Stare at my bosom.”
Heat rose in his cheeks. He looked at her a moment, dumbstruck, before giving her a crooked smile. “What bosom?”
and Maggie’s fiery temper:
“The blackguard!” Maggie’s low voice trembled with fury. “The confounded coward!…”
It was heart-breaking to see Maggie and Nicholas torn apart by Fred’s evil machinations, but it compelled me to read on, desperate to know what happened to them.
Ten years have passed, and I was sad to notice the change in Maggie. A bout of influenza and two periods of mourning for her father and aunt have left her in a fragile state of health. As executor of her father’s will, I hated how much control Fred exerted over Maggie’s life and how she had no choice but to marry him if she wished to retain her beloved home, Beasley Park. Despite everything, Maggie’s spirit has never been broken and this is clearly seen later on in the story.
…what she lacked in physical stamina, she more than made up for in spirit. In heart.
John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, the Earl of Allendale’s grandson, has recently returned to England after spending many years on the continent. His whole bearing proclaims him as someone of wealth and privilege since birth. He is known for his coldness – a man who ‘never lets his emotions get the better of his reason’. His grandfather is eager for him to find a wife to secure the survival of the family line.
When Maggie goes to London to stay with her friend, Jane Trumble, she discovers that Fred is to fight a duel with Viscount St. Clare. Fearful of what would happen to Beasley Park should Fred be killed, Maggie goes to see St. Clare in the hope of stopping the duel. She is shocked to see that he bears an uncanny resemblance to her beloved Nicholas!
I knew in my heart of hearts that St.Clare and Nicholas Seaton must be one and the same person, but Ms. Matthews certainly kept me in suspense. How on earth could an illegitimate, lowly groom become a well-educated and much travelled viscount? Even Maggie has her doubts at first, but the clues are there – the eyes, the smile, the way he says her name, and the one thing that ultimately proclaims, beyond a shadow of a doubt, his true identity.
“Great God, I knew it.” Her eyes found his, a glimmer of triumph shining in their liquid sapphire depths. “It really is you.”
The romance is so beautifully written, and I could feel the depth of their love for each other – both willing to give up on their dreams to be together. I think this is definitely the most sensual book Ms. Matthews has written, and she succeeds in making a single kiss or a look far more effective than any number of tedious sex scenes.
Their happiness is threatened by Fred who is always scheming to drive them apart, and Cousin Lionel and his mother who are spreading rumours to cast doubt on St. Clare’s legitimacy. I’m delighted to say that they all get their just deserts.
At first, I disliked Clare’s grandfather. It seemed that all he cared about was securing the family title, and St. Clare meant nothing to him other than a means to an end. However, his actions later in the story reveal how much he truly cares for his grandson. I liked Maggie’s friend, Jane Trumble, and her maid, Bessie, who showed such loyalty. Jane’s Aunt Harriet, their supposed chaperone, made me smile with her habit of falling asleep the minute she sits down and her inability to hear anything without her ear trumpet!
Although deceased, Gentleman Jim has a strong presence in the book and the mystery surrounding his true identity and his relevance to the characters and events in the story was intriguing.
The icing on the cake was a truly charming Epilogue.
Another wonderful book by one of my favourite authors. Highly recommended.
Originally posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog.
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
The way that Ms. Matthews conveys the inseparable bond between the young Maggie and Nicholas in the Prologue is so beautifully done. I loved Nicolas’ gentle teasing:
“…I never do what?”
“Stare at my bosom.”
Heat rose in his cheeks. He looked at her a moment, dumbstruck, before giving her a crooked smile. “What bosom?”
and Maggie’s fiery temper:
“The blackguard!” Maggie’s low voice trembled with fury. “The confounded coward!…”
It was heart-breaking to see Maggie and Nicholas torn apart by Fred’s evil machinations, but it compelled me to read on, desperate to know what happened to them.
Ten years have passed, and I was sad to notice the change in Maggie. A bout of influenza and two periods of mourning for her father and aunt have left her in a fragile state of health. As executor of her father’s will, I hated how much control Fred exerted over Maggie’s life and how she had no choice but to marry him if she wished to retain her beloved home, Beasley Park. Despite everything, Maggie’s spirit has never been broken and this is clearly seen later on in the story.
…what she lacked in physical stamina, she more than made up for in spirit. In heart.
John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, the Earl of Allendale’s grandson, has recently returned to England after spending many years on the continent. His whole bearing proclaims him as someone of wealth and privilege since birth. He is known for his coldness – a man who ‘never lets his emotions get the better of his reason’. His grandfather is eager for him to find a wife to secure the survival of the family line.
When Maggie goes to London to stay with her friend, Jane Trumble, she discovers that Fred is to fight a duel with Viscount St. Clare. Fearful of what would happen to Beasley Park should Fred be killed, Maggie goes to see St. Clare in the hope of stopping the duel. She is shocked to see that he bears an uncanny resemblance to her beloved Nicholas!
I knew in my heart of hearts that St.Clare and Nicholas Seaton must be one and the same person, but Ms. Matthews certainly kept me in suspense. How on earth could an illegitimate, lowly groom become a well-educated and much travelled viscount? Even Maggie has her doubts at first, but the clues are there – the eyes, the smile, the way he says her name, and the one thing that ultimately proclaims, beyond a shadow of a doubt, his true identity.
“Great God, I knew it.” Her eyes found his, a glimmer of triumph shining in their liquid sapphire depths. “It really is you.”
The romance is so beautifully written, and I could feel the depth of their love for each other – both willing to give up on their dreams to be together. I think this is definitely the most sensual book Ms. Matthews has written, and she succeeds in making a single kiss or a look far more effective than any number of tedious sex scenes.
Their happiness is threatened by Fred who is always scheming to drive them apart, and Cousin Lionel and his mother who are spreading rumours to cast doubt on St. Clare’s legitimacy. I’m delighted to say that they all get their just deserts.
At first, I disliked Clare’s grandfather. It seemed that all he cared about was securing the family title, and St. Clare meant nothing to him other than a means to an end. However, his actions later in the story reveal how much he truly cares for his grandson. I liked Maggie’s friend, Jane Trumble, and her maid, Bessie, who showed such loyalty. Jane’s Aunt Harriet, their supposed chaperone, made me smile with her habit of falling asleep the minute she sits down and her inability to hear anything without her ear trumpet!
Although deceased, Gentleman Jim has a strong presence in the book and the mystery surrounding his true identity and his relevance to the characters and events in the story was intriguing.
The icing on the cake was a truly charming Epilogue.
Another wonderful book by one of my favourite authors. Highly recommended.
Originally posted on my Rakes and Rascals Blog.
https://rakesandrascals.wordpress.com...
December 17, 2020
Gentleman Jim is not a biker dude, despite how the cover looks.
The story begins in Somerset, England, Spring, 1807 when lowly groom Nicholas Seaton, and Margaret Honeywell, the estate owner's daughter, were both in their late teens.
Unmarried mother Jenny Seaton, a scullery maid in the Honeywell home, had never been a loving mother to Nicholas, as if she resented his presence in her life. Maggie was the only solace he had. Her friendship throughout their youth was a balm to his soul keeping him going.
But his last day in Somerset was a tragic one, one of accusations and a brutal beating. His escape would last far too long for Maggie — waiting, always waiting for his return.
Ten years later 1817, London, England — Maggie was an unmarried 26-year-old, and Nicholas would have been nearly 30, but was never heard from again.
The evil Frederick Burton-Smythe is now Maggie’s guardian, holding all her purse strings and making it impossible to inherit her land and fortune unless she marries him.
Enter Vicount St. Clare, a man who could be either her undoing or her future.
The book is called Gentleman Jim, but he's peripheral at best. He was St. Clare's father, no one doubts that, but what he was all about or what happened to him and how he fit into the lives of the remaining characters is revealed slowly, and with great drama.
This book was hard to put down. It was not Christian Fiction, so my review is for a secular book. Fairly clean, but still worldly, with words and phrases I don’t appreciate. Not foul by any sense, just not pristine.
I did enjoy this story greatly because the relationships and chemistry were rich with content and emotion and a bit of mystery. Good book I’m glad to have read.
The story begins in Somerset, England, Spring, 1807 when lowly groom Nicholas Seaton, and Margaret Honeywell, the estate owner's daughter, were both in their late teens.
Unmarried mother Jenny Seaton, a scullery maid in the Honeywell home, had never been a loving mother to Nicholas, as if she resented his presence in her life. Maggie was the only solace he had. Her friendship throughout their youth was a balm to his soul keeping him going.
But his last day in Somerset was a tragic one, one of accusations and a brutal beating. His escape would last far too long for Maggie — waiting, always waiting for his return.
Ten years later 1817, London, England — Maggie was an unmarried 26-year-old, and Nicholas would have been nearly 30, but was never heard from again.
The evil Frederick Burton-Smythe is now Maggie’s guardian, holding all her purse strings and making it impossible to inherit her land and fortune unless she marries him.
Enter Vicount St. Clare, a man who could be either her undoing or her future.
The book is called Gentleman Jim, but he's peripheral at best. He was St. Clare's father, no one doubts that, but what he was all about or what happened to him and how he fit into the lives of the remaining characters is revealed slowly, and with great drama.
This book was hard to put down. It was not Christian Fiction, so my review is for a secular book. Fairly clean, but still worldly, with words and phrases I don’t appreciate. Not foul by any sense, just not pristine.
I did enjoy this story greatly because the relationships and chemistry were rich with content and emotion and a bit of mystery. Good book I’m glad to have read.
February 6, 2021
4.5 stars. Another wonderful romance from Mimi Matthews! I loved Maggie and Nicholas, the romance was passionate and exciting and the story had a fair bit of action that I very much enjoyed. The fact that I got to experience it all in the swoon-worthy voice performance of Alex Wyndham just made everything that much better. 💕
July 31, 2020
PREORDER THIS BOOK NOW!! I mean it. As much as I love Fair as a Star, I’m pretty sure Gentleman Jim is my new favorite. Lordy. I just read this book straight through and it’s now after 3 AM and I DIDN’T REALIZE IT. That’s the mark of a good book, my lovelies. Whew.
This book has everything I love in a romance! Her books are sexy as heck and she doesn’t need ten page love scenes to make them so. Gentleman Jim is definitely a little more sensual than her previous novels, but not something I wouldn’t feel comfortable recommending to grandma.
I appreciate that this book turns typical stereotypes on their heads a bit. Maggie does an awful lot of rescuing in this book. I am here for it. Even with her illness, she’s in now way a damsel in distress. That said, she still feels like authentic to the 19th century. I love Mimi’s ability to consistently write a heroine who’s relatable to the modern reader but also not anachronistic. I’m not even going to mention Viscount St. Clare, because he’s my new crush and amazing and now I’m going to go to bed and cry about the fact he’s fictional...so...goodnight.
P.S. DO NOT forget to preorder this!
This book has everything I love in a romance! Her books are sexy as heck and she doesn’t need ten page love scenes to make them so. Gentleman Jim is definitely a little more sensual than her previous novels, but not something I wouldn’t feel comfortable recommending to grandma.
I appreciate that this book turns typical stereotypes on their heads a bit. Maggie does an awful lot of rescuing in this book. I am here for it. Even with her illness, she’s in now way a damsel in distress. That said, she still feels like authentic to the 19th century. I love Mimi’s ability to consistently write a heroine who’s relatable to the modern reader but also not anachronistic. I’m not even going to mention Viscount St. Clare, because he’s my new crush and amazing and now I’m going to go to bed and cry about the fact he’s fictional...so...goodnight.
P.S. DO NOT forget to preorder this!
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