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The Jonquil Brothers #2
Drops of Gold
Layton Jonquil has spent the four years since his wife's death in the isolated sanctuary of his home, Farland Meadows, with only his daughter Caroline. Mary Wood, a flame-haired, out-spoken, overly-cheerful governess descends on the household changing both their lives and unearthing secrets Layton would rather remained buried and forgotten. Can one woman bring love back into a house too long without it and reclaim a heart too long broken to heal?
182 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2008
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March 12, 2013
3+ stars for this enjoyable but slightly bland Regency. Since I totally ♥ Seeking Persephone, it made sense to try another of Sarah Eden's novels. Glad I did! I closed the book feeling good, with a satisfied sigh. True, I preferred Seeking Persephone for various reasons. For examples, Drops of Gold did not have the suspense and adrenaline-pumping fear factor that SP had. In fact, it was a tad slow at times, even though I chuckled more than once, and read the entire book without stopping. I could describe it as sweet, but it's also sad and yet uplifting, with concepts of forgiveness (mainly forgiving yourself) and hope.
Want a smexy story? Only hugs and kisses here.
Suicide topic: Eden describes some old manuscripts she came across when researching this story. The topic? Suicide as a punishable crime in Regency England. In Drops of Gold, Eden skillfully and sensitively navigates the sorrow, guilt, and fear that flow from such a tragedy.
The story opens on Christmas Eve, in 1814. It's set in Nottinghamshire, England, near the town of Collingham, at Farland Meadows, the country home of Mr. Layton Jonquil.
Meet our heroine, MARION LINWOOD, born of gentle birth nearly 20 years ago, and a lady to her toes, despite her red hair and a tendency towards cheeky optimism and storytelling. She just buried her beloved father and brother, while her much loved mama died nine years ago. Homeless and needing to eat, our brave girl forges references and changes her name to Mary Wood, hoping to obtain the position of governess at Farland Meadows. Here's her POV, when reflecting on her crime:
Just a plain "mister" today, he's next in line to become Baron. However, his life is miserable, because he's been plagued by guilt, fear, memories, and nightmares. Layton is a widower, and the father of 4-year old Caroline, an adorable tot who has mysteriously gone through twelve (yes, 12!) nursemaids in four years (Eden never addresses WHY this is so). Desperately lonely and understandably insecure, Caroline falls in love with her kind and fun-loving governess, Mary Wood.
Mary Wood falls in ♥ with Caroline and with her so-handsome papa. By telling stories to them -- and Drops of Gold is the name of one of her stories -- she brings them out of the shadows into the light of laughter and love. (Sappy, I know, but sweet for all that).
Several secondary characters add a lot to the second half of the story, particularly Layton's six wonderful brothers, especially Philip the earl, Jason the barrister, and Holy Harold, the deacon. Eden used them to further the suicide discussions. I liked those brotherly conversations, especially Philip. There is also a villain of sorts: The mean-spirited, pompous Reverend Throckmorton. (Young Caroline mistakenly calls him Mr. Mockportant. Hah!)
Gripes and unresolved issues: After the first kiss, there was a long stretch of time where the hero kept his distance from the heroine, breaking her heart. Also, the married butler and housekeeper crop up as problem servants, deceitful at least, but this is never resolved. Can't have a HEA with them around! And where did the arsenic come from?? How did she get it? Also, Eden does not write believable dialogue for a child. For one example, Caroline asks: "Couldn't they like me instead of 'specting me?" (respecting)
Content: No sex, no violence, no profanity, about 3 typos.
Want a smexy story? Only hugs and kisses here.
Suicide topic: Eden describes some old manuscripts she came across when researching this story. The topic? Suicide as a punishable crime in Regency England. In Drops of Gold, Eden skillfully and sensitively navigates the sorrow, guilt, and fear that flow from such a tragedy.
The story opens on Christmas Eve, in 1814. It's set in Nottinghamshire, England, near the town of Collingham, at Farland Meadows, the country home of Mr. Layton Jonquil.
Meet our heroine, MARION LINWOOD, born of gentle birth nearly 20 years ago, and a lady to her toes, despite her red hair and a tendency towards cheeky optimism and storytelling. She just buried her beloved father and brother, while her much loved mama died nine years ago. Homeless and needing to eat, our brave girl forges references and changes her name to Mary Wood, hoping to obtain the position of governess at Farland Meadows. Here's her POV, when reflecting on her crime:
Forging was probably wrong, she reflected, especially the references she'd created for herself. Lamentable. But starvation is also lamentable, she reminded herself.The POV sometimes switches to our hero, Mr. Layton Jonquil, age 27, second of seven fine sons to a deceased but beloved Earl. Layton's built like an ox, and at least six feet tall. This fellow is plainly gorgeous, with wavy, shoulder-length golden hair and blue eyes -- but get this -- "His eyes are blue flecked with chocolate and emerald." - - - Easter egg eyes. ツ
Just a plain "mister" today, he's next in line to become Baron. However, his life is miserable, because he's been plagued by guilt, fear, memories, and nightmares. Layton is a widower, and the father of 4-year old Caroline, an adorable tot who has mysteriously gone through twelve (yes, 12!) nursemaids in four years (Eden never addresses WHY this is so). Desperately lonely and understandably insecure, Caroline falls in love with her kind and fun-loving governess, Mary Wood.
Mary Wood falls in ♥ with Caroline and with her so-handsome papa. By telling stories to them -- and Drops of Gold is the name of one of her stories -- she brings them out of the shadows into the light of laughter and love. (Sappy, I know, but sweet for all that).
Several secondary characters add a lot to the second half of the story, particularly Layton's six wonderful brothers, especially Philip the earl, Jason the barrister, and Holy Harold, the deacon. Eden used them to further the suicide discussions. I liked those brotherly conversations, especially Philip. There is also a villain of sorts: The mean-spirited, pompous Reverend Throckmorton. (Young Caroline mistakenly calls him Mr. Mockportant. Hah!)
Gripes and unresolved issues: After the first kiss, there was a long stretch of time where the hero kept his distance from the heroine, breaking her heart. Also, the married butler and housekeeper crop up as problem servants, deceitful at least, but this is never resolved. Can't have a HEA with them around! And where did the arsenic come from?? How did she get it? Also, Eden does not write believable dialogue for a child. For one example, Caroline asks: "Couldn't they like me instead of 'specting me?" (respecting)
Content: No sex, no violence, no profanity, about 3 typos.
January 6, 2021
Oh my! Three to four stars one for the adorable plot moppet, Caroline, melting my cold bitter heart.
This ended up very sweet like the other Sarah Eden I read, but a little lacking.
The relationship between Mary and Caroline is very genuine and sweet and makes the book for me. It’s the relationship between the waffling beta hero with a Great Big Secret that falls down a little despite the chemistry between him and the heroine.
I would have liked to see more decisive action from him as well as more on page interaction between him and his six brothers. The nostalgia the heroine and hero delivered regarding their respective parents was sweet as well.
This ended up very sweet like the other Sarah Eden I read, but a little lacking.
The relationship between Mary and Caroline is very genuine and sweet and makes the book for me. It’s the relationship between the waffling beta hero with a Great Big Secret that falls down a little despite the chemistry between him and the heroine.
I would have liked to see more decisive action from him as well as more on page interaction between him and his six brothers. The nostalgia the heroine and hero delivered regarding their respective parents was sweet as well.
May 28, 2017
4.75 stars - pg/mild pg13
Loved it!! (Of course!) Love this author! Love this large fictional family of well-raised, true gentlemen who can always be counted on to support each other and to show respect to the women around them, starting with their mother! I rarely re-read books; Sarah Eden's books are one of the exceptions (along with Georgette Heyer) -- I will gladly re-read hers for years to come. So far I've read this one twice and loved it just as much both times.
"Ah, furuncle!" --- I loved the heroine in this book, along with one of her favorite exclamations!! I may have to adopt it as one of my own! (Either that or "Ah, carbuncle!!")
Loved it!! (Of course!) Love this author! Love this large fictional family of well-raised, true gentlemen who can always be counted on to support each other and to show respect to the women around them, starting with their mother! I rarely re-read books; Sarah Eden's books are one of the exceptions (along with Georgette Heyer) -- I will gladly re-read hers for years to come. So far I've read this one twice and loved it just as much both times.
"Ah, furuncle!" --- I loved the heroine in this book, along with one of her favorite exclamations!! I may have to adopt it as one of my own! (Either that or "Ah, carbuncle!!")
March 19, 2017
June 2015: I'm not sure what it is about this one, besides the obvious, but I just love it. I really like Marion's character and even Layton. Its been fun reading this series in order. Now I'm off to read As You Are. I hoping all the brothers get stories. :)
After reading As You Are this week I had to go back and read Layton's story. I loved it just as much this time around. While I love all of Ms. Eden's books this is still a favorite.
I loved Layton and Marion, they had a great relationship. Marion has a very positive outlook on life, despite the trials she has gone through. She is so upbeat and positive, her happiness if addictive. Layton has also gone through some trials and has become pretty unhappy with life. Marion is like a ray of light, he finds himself drawn to her. I loved how he was unconsciously seek her out (well, maybe he planned it) and find himself wanting to be in her company. They really do have a sweet relationship.
I did think the subject matter was a bit serious, but it’s handled well and I never felt bogged down by all the things going on. I thought the story had a great, positive message. I actually liked the growth both characters went through, they really have to figure some things out before they get their happily ever after. I really enjoyed their relationship and story. Oh, and I can’t forget little Caroline, she was darling.
I also loved Layton’s brothers, I had forgotten that we had already met his eldest brother Philip in Friends and Foes, so it was fun to be reunited with him. While all of Eden’s books can be read on their own, this series does have some overlapping characters. I actually love that, it makes her regencies seem more real in a way.
Overall, a great book that was well written and full of lovable characters. Go get it!
Content: Clean.
Jonquil Brothers Series
Book One: Friends and Foes
Book Two: Drops of Gold
Book Three: As You Are (not yet published)
Book Four: A Fine Gentleman (not yet published)
Side books
The Kiss of a Stranger (pre Friend and Foes)
For Elise (side book, follows Marion’s cousin Miles)
After reading As You Are this week I had to go back and read Layton's story. I loved it just as much this time around. While I love all of Ms. Eden's books this is still a favorite.
I loved Layton and Marion, they had a great relationship. Marion has a very positive outlook on life, despite the trials she has gone through. She is so upbeat and positive, her happiness if addictive. Layton has also gone through some trials and has become pretty unhappy with life. Marion is like a ray of light, he finds himself drawn to her. I loved how he was unconsciously seek her out (well, maybe he planned it) and find himself wanting to be in her company. They really do have a sweet relationship.
I did think the subject matter was a bit serious, but it’s handled well and I never felt bogged down by all the things going on. I thought the story had a great, positive message. I actually liked the growth both characters went through, they really have to figure some things out before they get their happily ever after. I really enjoyed their relationship and story. Oh, and I can’t forget little Caroline, she was darling.
I also loved Layton’s brothers, I had forgotten that we had already met his eldest brother Philip in Friends and Foes, so it was fun to be reunited with him. While all of Eden’s books can be read on their own, this series does have some overlapping characters. I actually love that, it makes her regencies seem more real in a way.
Overall, a great book that was well written and full of lovable characters. Go get it!
Content: Clean.
Jonquil Brothers Series
Book One: Friends and Foes
Book Two: Drops of Gold
Book Three: As You Are (not yet published)
Book Four: A Fine Gentleman (not yet published)
Side books
The Kiss of a Stranger (pre Friend and Foes)
For Elise (side book, follows Marion’s cousin Miles)
May 13, 2017
Such a great book! The author perfectly balances the angst, conflict, humor, romance, and hope. I especially loved Marion's relationship with the daughter Caroline and the light she brought to the home. I also appreciated the way Layton's brothers helped him overcome his struggles. A lovely romance!
May 19, 2020
It's a bit embarrassing sitting at your kids' tennis practice on the bleachers hoping no one looks at you and notices you're tearing up because you feel the pain of two characters you've grown to love. Wonderful character development, endearing characters--primary and secondary--lovely banter. Now that I've read two Jonquil brother stories, I'm completely intrigued in getting read to find out how all the others fall in love.
April 29, 2013
Four stars is on the generous side. I have thoroughly enjoyed all of Eden's books but this one had a few major blemishes. (1) The whole idea of her being left destitute from an advantaged wealthy situation to the point of begging? No jewels - nothing to keep her afloat until things got settled? (2) The conflict between Mary and the other servants was left to "it was strained" - zero dialogue. Good grief, the house lady lied about her position and salary and it just gets dropped! Nothing more is mentioned. (3) Layton's family really didn't notice that there was something between him and Mary at Caroline's dinner - Caroline had made a dramatic change as had Layton and no one made the connection with Mary? Really? There were a few other oddities - un-Eden like. I still loved the story. The problem with reading so much Heyer is that the bar gets raised to an unreasonable level.
January 9, 2013
What a fantastic book!!! I loved the storyline and the relationship between Mary/Marion) and Caroline. And of course, the relationship with Layton. :) This book really drew me into the 1800s and the lives of these characters. I love seeing the characters from some of the other books make appearances and to get to know them in a different way.
Mary/Marion is penniless and has nowhere else to go--except to get a job as a governess. She lies to get the job and when she shows up, they act like they don't want her. Her charge, Caroline, is a bit young for a governess, but they hit it off so well that Layton can't bear to send her away.
I seriously cannot wait for another book about another brother to come out--these are so much fun!! So romantic; so clean; such favorites!!!
Mary/Marion is penniless and has nowhere else to go--except to get a job as a governess. She lies to get the job and when she shows up, they act like they don't want her. Her charge, Caroline, is a bit young for a governess, but they hit it off so well that Layton can't bear to send her away.
I seriously cannot wait for another book about another brother to come out--these are so much fun!! So romantic; so clean; such favorites!!!
February 16, 2019
This is actually the first book that I have read by Sarah Eden. An enjoyable regency romance that is #2 in the Jonquil Brother's series. It seems each book in the series can stand-alone and be read out of order. I really liked the main character and her creative, spunky personality.
June 10, 2021
I am in a tilt-a-whirl of toe-curling swoons after my visit to Farland Meadows. These Jonquil brothers! Mercy! I think I need to read (or listen to) one a week to keep my toes toned and my fainting couch bounced. :-) And since there are seven brothers I have over a month of exquisite reading ahead. And, yes, I know I'm late to the party when it comes to this series, but I'll be in fine form by the time the last book (sob) releases in the fall.
Oh -- and these books seem to read well as standalones (I've only read two) though they overlap a bit (much to my delight, I might have fangirl squealed when Philip -- book one's hero -- made his appearance.) Easy for newbie readers to leap into the Jonquil fray but super fun for fans to continue on with these brothers' antics.
So...Marion!!! What a delightful burst of optimism and hope despite her reduced circumstances. Her infectious laughter and bright spirit are exactly what the gloomy walls of the Meadows needs. Her young charge, Caroline, is instantly smitten, and her papa isn't far behind!
Layton is on the verge of the classical brooding hero only he's not as grumpy. :-) He's able to channel his dourness and is ever the doting papa. Happy sigh, there is something so divinely scrumptious about a man besotted by his offspring. But Layton has been carrying a burden, a secret he hasn't even shared with his large, close-knit family. It has worn him down, eroding his faith and leaving him with a bleak outlook on both life and the church.
The friendship Layton and Marion develop is both unorthodox and mildly scandalous and fraught with complications. There's banter -- of course there's banter, this is Sarah M. Eden, after all! And heartfelt disclosures. And a few toe-curling, hyperventilate-in-a-bag scenes to make the staunchest romantical heart swoon. And there are Jonquils! Lots and lots of Jonquils! I am in Regency Romance heaven!
Oh -- and these books seem to read well as standalones (I've only read two) though they overlap a bit (much to my delight, I might have fangirl squealed when Philip -- book one's hero -- made his appearance.) Easy for newbie readers to leap into the Jonquil fray but super fun for fans to continue on with these brothers' antics.
So...Marion!!! What a delightful burst of optimism and hope despite her reduced circumstances. Her infectious laughter and bright spirit are exactly what the gloomy walls of the Meadows needs. Her young charge, Caroline, is instantly smitten, and her papa isn't far behind!
Layton is on the verge of the classical brooding hero only he's not as grumpy. :-) He's able to channel his dourness and is ever the doting papa. Happy sigh, there is something so divinely scrumptious about a man besotted by his offspring. But Layton has been carrying a burden, a secret he hasn't even shared with his large, close-knit family. It has worn him down, eroding his faith and leaving him with a bleak outlook on both life and the church.
The friendship Layton and Marion develop is both unorthodox and mildly scandalous and fraught with complications. There's banter -- of course there's banter, this is Sarah M. Eden, after all! And heartfelt disclosures. And a few toe-curling, hyperventilate-in-a-bag scenes to make the staunchest romantical heart swoon. And there are Jonquils! Lots and lots of Jonquils! I am in Regency Romance heaven!
December 10, 2017
This was a vast improvement over the previous book in this series. Although the genteel lady who hides her identity to work as a servant is a plot that's been done by several authors, this story managed to hold my interest and had me rooting for Layton and Marion. Lady Marion, the daughter of a recently deceased marquess, accepts a position as governess to the four-year-old daughter of Layton Jonquil. As with most stories in this trope, the heroine is the balm needed to heal the hero's anguished soul. Marion brings laughter and joy back to Layton's gloomy home. The ending was predictable and a little cheesy, but I do love a happy ending.
August 8, 2016
Not strictly a Christian romance. There were strong themes about forgiveness, mainly about forgiving oneself & overcoming guilt. Not preachy.
I enjoyed Marion's stories, she was a fun character. Layton wasn't nearly as dark and brooding as I'd hoped, given the gothic feel of the first few chapters. There was cheese, and both MCs took a martyrish turn towards the end, but overall, a nice story. A happy, quick read.
3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads
I enjoyed Marion's stories, she was a fun character. Layton wasn't nearly as dark and brooding as I'd hoped, given the gothic feel of the first few chapters. There was cheese, and both MCs took a martyrish turn towards the end, but overall, a nice story. A happy, quick read.
3.5 stars rounded up for Goodreads
October 23, 2017
Another great story! I can't get enough of these Jonquil brothers!
April 10, 2023
Another enjoyable listen in the Jonquil Brothers series. I was not as fond of the narrator for this book, but she grew on me after awhile.
The second half of the story captured me more than the first half, although I truly did enjoy the whole book. There were some very difficult topics covered that could be triggers for some readers (I noticed that other people covered these things in their reviews, so I am not going to). I thought the author handled them tastefully and in a time period sensitive way.
I liked the characters of Layton, Marion, and Caroline and hoped for things to work out for them, however, I wasn't as invested in them as I have been with other characters in the Jonquil and Lancaster families so far. I was glad to see another brother finally find happiness and look forward to reading more in the series.
The second half of the story captured me more than the first half, although I truly did enjoy the whole book. There were some very difficult topics covered that could be triggers for some readers (I noticed that other people covered these things in their reviews, so I am not going to). I thought the author handled them tastefully and in a time period sensitive way.
I liked the characters of Layton, Marion, and Caroline and hoped for things to work out for them, however, I wasn't as invested in them as I have been with other characters in the Jonquil and Lancaster families so far. I was glad to see another brother finally find happiness and look forward to reading more in the series.
July 26, 2019
4,5 stars! I thought I liked her first book in the series but this one I FREAKING LOVED!
It tugged at my heartstrings from the beginning with the sweet child that was Caroline. She was such a little old lady at heart. I loved that she had both our otp wrapped around her finger, but especially her daddy.
We met Layton in the first book, like all the brothers, but it was obvious he had problems and wasn't alright since his wife's death. Once everything was explained, it just broke, what was left of my heart, to pieces!
Of course, our heroine Maron was great too. She didn't let anything dim her smile which shows her strength and heart once we learn about her family. The way she told her stories was so sweet and heartbreaking. That's basically how I would describe this book :")
It didn't get 5 stars cause this author tends to abuse missunderstandings sometimes. Some I find realistic since it's not modern times but others I find silly.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It had no plot, per se, it was all about two people, a family and how love can fix almost everything. I have never been this glad at getting nothing more than some kisses and caresses. It leaves room to focus on what's important, ALL THE FEELS!
PS: I think this is the longest review I have ever written, that should tell you how much I loved it lol
It tugged at my heartstrings from the beginning with the sweet child that was Caroline. She was such a little old lady at heart. I loved that she had both our otp wrapped around her finger, but especially her daddy.
We met Layton in the first book, like all the brothers, but it was obvious he had problems and wasn't alright since his wife's death. Once everything was explained, it just broke, what was left of my heart, to pieces!
Of course, our heroine Maron was great too. She didn't let anything dim her smile which shows her strength and heart once we learn about her family. The way she told her stories was so sweet and heartbreaking. That's basically how I would describe this book :")
It didn't get 5 stars cause this author tends to abuse missunderstandings sometimes. Some I find realistic since it's not modern times but others I find silly.
All in all, I really enjoyed this book. It had no plot, per se, it was all about two people, a family and how love can fix almost everything. I have never been this glad at getting nothing more than some kisses and caresses. It leaves room to focus on what's important, ALL THE FEELS!
PS: I think this is the longest review I have ever written, that should tell you how much I loved it lol
November 25, 2013
Sarah M. Eden writes regency romances with enough pain or conflict or strife that they avoid being categorized as foofy, in my book. That isn't to say that her characters are very nuanced or even believable, but she gives them enough stress that I root for them to find relief. Drops of Gold follows a pretty self-reliant orphan who goes to work for a lonely and unhappy widow and his young daughter. Their attraction to each other is almost immediate as he is physically gorgeous and she is ridiculously cheerful. That sounds more obnoxious than it is but I do think Eden could have toned down those qualities just a bit and still had a fine romance.
What didn't work and what I don't understand is the dead-end development of some of her plot points. Why mention the high number of nursemaid turnover or the petty treatment from the rest of the house staff if those things weren't going to impact anything later on. It didn't fit but I'm not going to spend too much time on this review. Overall, it was a pleasant few hours of reading for me.
What didn't work and what I don't understand is the dead-end development of some of her plot points. Why mention the high number of nursemaid turnover or the petty treatment from the rest of the house staff if those things weren't going to impact anything later on. It didn't fit but I'm not going to spend too much time on this review. Overall, it was a pleasant few hours of reading for me.
May 11, 2016
Painfully predictable and repetitive. Reading this as literature is the equivalent of eating syrup for dinner. It's sweet and delicious and I like the idea of it, but I can't live on it and I'd rather have some substance. I think of this books more like palette cleanser between the heavier serious literature, so just one spoonful and I'm done.
May 17, 2021
Another of the books I brought on my trip. This one deals with the heartache of the loss of loved ones. I liked Marion's ability to find sunshine despite the severity of her situation. I didn't get why she didn't appeal to her friends for help before taking the drastic steps that she did. It didn't make sense.
September 19, 2023
I love the healing of broken families element in this book. And I appreciated that it touches on post partum depression and suicide in a safe way.
March 30, 2022
3.5 stars
Marion lies about her name and experience to become Mary Wood, governess to four-year-old Miss Caroline Jonquil at Fairland Meadows. Mary is eager to experience the lovely meadows and be a part of a happy home. Instead she finds rude servants and a gloomy household. Mr. Layton Jonquil has distanced himself from his daughter and his community since the death of his wife almost five years earlier. He has a secret which weighs heavily on his mind and has led to some gossip in the community. Mary brings light and laughter into the house again and little Caroline blossoms into the happy child she was born to be. Layton feels himself drawn to Mary as she makes him smile and laugh as he has not done in a very long time. Her magical stories weave a spell around him and he soon finds himself smitten. This can not be! Besides the difference in their stations, there's the gossip about his late wife and his own feelings of guilt to overcome. Mary loves Caroline and never wants to let the child down by leaving but as her own feelings for Caroline's father grow, she becomes more and more uncertain of her place at the Meadows. If she must be a servant until Caroline grows up, so be it, but it will be so hard. If only Layton could be the white knight from her stories to come and rescue her.
This story was not quite what I expected. I just LOVED Friends and Foes and because that and The Kiss of a Stranger had villains to overcome and swoony romantic moments, I expected the same from this story. This one does not have an external conflict such as the other two. The conflict is all in Layton's mind and he must overcome it before he and Mary can be together. This story is way more preachy than the previous two and contains some small historical errors. I was also looking forward to learning what happens next for Sorrel and Philip, especially Sorrel, but this story starts at the exact same place where Sorrel and Philip start their battle as foes and only goes forward a few months in time to their wedding.
I really wanted to smack Layton upside the head if I could reach him. He's so gloomy and for no reason!
Mary is almost a Mary Sue character. She's perky, cheerful and always happy. Yet, she's also a bit cheeky and has a sense of humor. Her heart is as big as England and she just wants everyone to love each other. I was captivated by her stories, which I figured out were about her family and didn't have a happily ever after ending. It's nice to read about a heroine who came from a loving family AND a hero who also has a loving family. (Which makes his reluctance to confide in them baffling). It's clear Mary's mother was a huge influence on her daughter. She was the light and heart of the home. I think Mary's grief over losing her mother at a young age makes her more empathetic to Caroline and helps her understand just how to help the little girl. I loved Mary's unique faux swear words. "Ah, furuncle!" "Ah, carbuncle!" "Double dungers!" That's too funny! I can hear little Caroline trying to repeat them in her own way.
I hate precocious moppets. I do not hate Caroline but I didn't feel my heart melting. I think she's going to be spoiled and bratty. She's cute enough I suppose. Her childish pronunciations of her uncles' names are hilarious and the conversation about handkerchief etiquette was funny. I did feel sorry for her that her father can't bring himself to truly love her and that he's so selfishly wallowing in his own guilt that he can't give his child what he needs. Why doesn't his mother live with him and help out? Caroline needs love, laughter and support. She doesn't need a nurse or a governess right now but a loving family.
The Jonquils are such a fun family. "Flip" Philip, the Earl, captured by heart in Friends and Foes. His foppish facade would drive me crazy and it would be SOOO hard not to defend him and spill the beans. He's going to make a wonderful father based on his relationship with Caroline. I was happy to see him with Sorrel, giving her the care she needs. I also really liked the moments when Philip dropped the facade and acted like the big brother he needed to be at that moment. Corbin is sweet and shy, not the most sharp of all brothers but a kind man. His story is next. Stanley needs healing in more ways than one. I think he may have survivor's guilt on top of his injuries. Jason and Harry are stuffed shirts that need loosening up but Jason comes through when he's needed. Charlie is still at school with Sorrel's brother Fennel. Crispin and Catherine also make a cameo on this novel. She's come a long way now she's happily married. I love them together. Marion's cousin seems nice and I'd like a spin-off about him- BUT- he has to sell his sugar plantation or free his slaves before I would read it.
There are some plot points unresolved. Why are the servants so horrible? Why did the housekeeper lie to Mary? I was hoping for some intrigue and villainy. The closest thing this book has to a villain is Mr. Throckmorton, the vicar. He's a hellfire and brimstone type preacher, super gloomy and mean. His God is an angry, vengeful God apparently. He is responsible, indirectly, for a lot of Layton's guilt.
I picked up a few historical errors. While I liked the details of Caroline's Twelfth Night party, there's no way the coin could be chocolaty. Chocolate cake in any form didn't appear until the end of the 19th-century and chocolate cake as we know it is an early 20th century creation. Cakes were typically sponge cakes or spice cakes, flavored with candied fruits and alcohol. They were raised by beating eggs by hand. Baking powder hadn't been invented yet. I'd be really mad if I were a cook asked to make a birthday cake for a governess so soon after making one for the child! My arms would be crying! Plus, birthdays weren't really celebrated. The word "hello" is commonly misused in 19th-century-set novels. According to the online etymology dictionary, "hello" entered the vernacular with the telephone. Sarah Eden gets it right in the next book. "Good Day" is more correct. I'm being nitpicky but it bugs me when the author works hard to research the larger history and not the small details that set the story in a certain time. Finally, of course, is the role of religion in early 19th-century Britain. Nobility like the Jonquils, especially Philip, were secure in their knowledge that God placed them in their sphere of influence. Philip would go to church to show off his new waistcoat!
This story was just too gloomy for me. The next one looks sad and dark too.
I plan to continue the series since I did ask the library to buy them. I'm still hoping to find out more about what happens to Sorrel!
Reread March 2022
I planned to just skim parts of this to refresh my memory but ended up pretty much speed reading the whole thing. I liked it much better the second time around knowing what happens to everyone. Marion's cousin does have his own book but it's dark For Elise. Who is the Duke of Hartley? Does he have his own story as a novella? It doesn't look like he has a full-length novel.
I just love the Jonquils. Layton is not my favorite- he's more middle of the pack. I like Marion much better now. She's good for Layton.
Caroline is cute and charming. She provides a lot of the humor, along with Flip.
There were a few parts I thought I remembered from the paperback and some I had forgotten. I don't know if there were changes between the e-book and paperback or if my memory is wrong. I thought
Now I know Mater's story Forget Me Not I know why she wouldn't have been able to help and reading more clearly, Although I do believe Mater had her own problems with depression after her mother's death and up until Lucas finally stopped acting like an idiot and learned to love her.
Sarah M. Eden sure has a way of tugging on the heartstrings and creating realistic and interesting characters. I hope some day she will write a spinoff about Caroline! Although I don't know how I feel about seeing grown-up Caroline able to pronounce names properly. At 8 she still calls her uncles by their nicknames because everyone finds it adorable and there are younger children around learning to speak.
Marion lies about her name and experience to become Mary Wood, governess to four-year-old Miss Caroline Jonquil at Fairland Meadows. Mary is eager to experience the lovely meadows and be a part of a happy home. Instead she finds rude servants and a gloomy household. Mr. Layton Jonquil has distanced himself from his daughter and his community since the death of his wife almost five years earlier. He has a secret which weighs heavily on his mind and has led to some gossip in the community. Mary brings light and laughter into the house again and little Caroline blossoms into the happy child she was born to be. Layton feels himself drawn to Mary as she makes him smile and laugh as he has not done in a very long time. Her magical stories weave a spell around him and he soon finds himself smitten. This can not be! Besides the difference in their stations, there's the gossip about his late wife and his own feelings of guilt to overcome. Mary loves Caroline and never wants to let the child down by leaving but as her own feelings for Caroline's father grow, she becomes more and more uncertain of her place at the Meadows. If she must be a servant until Caroline grows up, so be it, but it will be so hard. If only Layton could be the white knight from her stories to come and rescue her.
This story was not quite what I expected. I just LOVED Friends and Foes and because that and The Kiss of a Stranger had villains to overcome and swoony romantic moments, I expected the same from this story. This one does not have an external conflict such as the other two. The conflict is all in Layton's mind and he must overcome it before he and Mary can be together. This story is way more preachy than the previous two and contains some small historical errors. I was also looking forward to learning what happens next for Sorrel and Philip, especially Sorrel, but this story starts at the exact same place where Sorrel and Philip start their battle as foes and only goes forward a few months in time to their wedding.
I really wanted to smack Layton upside the head if I could reach him. He's so gloomy and for no reason!
Mary is almost a Mary Sue character. She's perky, cheerful and always happy. Yet, she's also a bit cheeky and has a sense of humor. Her heart is as big as England and she just wants everyone to love each other. I was captivated by her stories, which I figured out were about her family and didn't have a happily ever after ending. It's nice to read about a heroine who came from a loving family AND a hero who also has a loving family. (Which makes his reluctance to confide in them baffling). It's clear Mary's mother was a huge influence on her daughter. She was the light and heart of the home. I think Mary's grief over losing her mother at a young age makes her more empathetic to Caroline and helps her understand just how to help the little girl. I loved Mary's unique faux swear words. "Ah, furuncle!" "Ah, carbuncle!" "Double dungers!" That's too funny! I can hear little Caroline trying to repeat them in her own way.
I hate precocious moppets. I do not hate Caroline but I didn't feel my heart melting. I think she's going to be spoiled and bratty. She's cute enough I suppose. Her childish pronunciations of her uncles' names are hilarious and the conversation about handkerchief etiquette was funny. I did feel sorry for her that her father can't bring himself to truly love her and that he's so selfishly wallowing in his own guilt that he can't give his child what he needs. Why doesn't his mother live with him and help out? Caroline needs love, laughter and support. She doesn't need a nurse or a governess right now but a loving family.
The Jonquils are such a fun family. "Flip" Philip, the Earl, captured by heart in Friends and Foes. His foppish facade would drive me crazy and it would be SOOO hard not to defend him and spill the beans. He's going to make a wonderful father based on his relationship with Caroline. I was happy to see him with Sorrel, giving her the care she needs. I also really liked the moments when Philip dropped the facade and acted like the big brother he needed to be at that moment. Corbin is sweet and shy, not the most sharp of all brothers but a kind man. His story is next. Stanley needs healing in more ways than one. I think he may have survivor's guilt on top of his injuries. Jason and Harry are stuffed shirts that need loosening up but Jason comes through when he's needed. Charlie is still at school with Sorrel's brother Fennel. Crispin and Catherine also make a cameo on this novel. She's come a long way now she's happily married. I love them together. Marion's cousin seems nice and I'd like a spin-off about him- BUT- he has to sell his sugar plantation or free his slaves before I would read it.
There are some plot points unresolved. Why are the servants so horrible? Why did the housekeeper lie to Mary? I was hoping for some intrigue and villainy. The closest thing this book has to a villain is Mr. Throckmorton, the vicar. He's a hellfire and brimstone type preacher, super gloomy and mean. His God is an angry, vengeful God apparently. He is responsible, indirectly, for a lot of Layton's guilt.
I picked up a few historical errors. While I liked the details of Caroline's Twelfth Night party, there's no way the coin could be chocolaty. Chocolate cake in any form didn't appear until the end of the 19th-century and chocolate cake as we know it is an early 20th century creation. Cakes were typically sponge cakes or spice cakes, flavored with candied fruits and alcohol. They were raised by beating eggs by hand. Baking powder hadn't been invented yet. I'd be really mad if I were a cook asked to make a birthday cake for a governess so soon after making one for the child! My arms would be crying! Plus, birthdays weren't really celebrated. The word "hello" is commonly misused in 19th-century-set novels. According to the online etymology dictionary, "hello" entered the vernacular with the telephone. Sarah Eden gets it right in the next book. "Good Day" is more correct. I'm being nitpicky but it bugs me when the author works hard to research the larger history and not the small details that set the story in a certain time. Finally, of course, is the role of religion in early 19th-century Britain. Nobility like the Jonquils, especially Philip, were secure in their knowledge that God placed them in their sphere of influence. Philip would go to church to show off his new waistcoat!
This story was just too gloomy for me. The next one looks sad and dark too.
I plan to continue the series since I did ask the library to buy them. I'm still hoping to find out more about what happens to Sorrel!
Reread March 2022
I planned to just skim parts of this to refresh my memory but ended up pretty much speed reading the whole thing. I liked it much better the second time around knowing what happens to everyone. Marion's cousin does have his own book but it's dark For Elise. Who is the Duke of Hartley? Does he have his own story as a novella? It doesn't look like he has a full-length novel.
I just love the Jonquils. Layton is not my favorite- he's more middle of the pack. I like Marion much better now. She's good for Layton.
Caroline is cute and charming. She provides a lot of the humor, along with Flip.
There were a few parts I thought I remembered from the paperback and some I had forgotten. I don't know if there were changes between the e-book and paperback or if my memory is wrong. I thought
Now I know Mater's story Forget Me Not I know why she wouldn't have been able to help and reading more clearly, Although I do believe Mater had her own problems with depression after her mother's death and up until Lucas finally stopped acting like an idiot and learned to love her.
Sarah M. Eden sure has a way of tugging on the heartstrings and creating realistic and interesting characters. I hope some day she will write a spinoff about Caroline! Although I don't know how I feel about seeing grown-up Caroline able to pronounce names properly. At 8 she still calls her uncles by their nicknames because everyone finds it adorable and there are younger children around learning to speak.
March 10, 2023
Charming, frustrating, funny, painful, and yet another solid novel by Sarah M. Eden. The faith side of things could have been a bit more fleshed out.
September 16, 2014
Sarah Eden is one of my all time favorite authors. Not only does she write clean romance, but she writes it very well. Her characters are flawed human beings with plenty of challenges making them easy to relate to, but they also have the values and character traits to keep going even when life is really hard. I think one of the things that I especially enjoyed about this one, (besides reading about the Jonquil brothers again) was the way the characters dealt with some painful secrets. Secrets can be so destructive and they definitely play a major role in the story; secrets between family members, secrets between employer and employee. These secrets cause major problems in the relationships between the different characters. And yet despite the painful secrets, it's also sweet to see the difference that one person can make in the lives of others, in this case, Marion arrives at Layton Jonquil's home and quickly realizes that it's not a happy place. But with her own natural optimism and tender stories she finds a way beyond her own painful memories to help Layton and his daughter find healing and peace. A beautiful love story, but not just romantic love, also parental love, brotherly love, and the way that love helps bring healing.
March 30, 2017
Ugh. Couldn't finish. First of all, Caroline is not a real child - her characterization is disgustingly saccharine and unrealistic. Mary is annoying and seems slightly bipolar.
Granted, I didn't read very far, but it's because I just couldn't take it! I basically stopped after the story about the little boy accidentally killing his puppy. First of all, WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT ALL ABOUT!? I see no insight or sage wisdom in that...just a really fucked up sense of right and wrong in the macabre tradition.
Usually, I try really hard to finish stories I've started, but I couldn't finish this - couldn't even make it halfway. The characters were ANNOYING and made NO sense. Just bad.
Granted, I didn't read very far, but it's because I just couldn't take it! I basically stopped after the story about the little boy accidentally killing his puppy. First of all, WHAT THE FUCK IS THAT ALL ABOUT!? I see no insight or sage wisdom in that...just a really fucked up sense of right and wrong in the macabre tradition.
Usually, I try really hard to finish stories I've started, but I couldn't finish this - couldn't even make it halfway. The characters were ANNOYING and made NO sense. Just bad.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 3, 2017
March 2013:Super sweet love story!! I loved Marion's optimism. Perfect to warm up this cold, yucky day!
RE-read Dec. 2014: I don't know why I only gave this 4 stars the first time I read it. 5 stars all the way. Idk if I am hormonal or what, but I feel like I cried 1/2 the book... I know I yelled at Layton a couple of times and said, "Oh bless his heart" a few times too. Marion... bless her heart. She is so beautiful and optimistic and I want to be more like her. <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Re-Read March 2017: I love this book more every time I read it. ❤
RE-read Dec. 2014: I don't know why I only gave this 4 stars the first time I read it. 5 stars all the way. Idk if I am hormonal or what, but I feel like I cried 1/2 the book... I know I yelled at Layton a couple of times and said, "Oh bless his heart" a few times too. Marion... bless her heart. She is so beautiful and optimistic and I want to be more like her. <3 <3 <3 <3 <3
Re-Read March 2017: I love this book more every time I read it. ❤
September 20, 2013
I was hooked from the very beginning and could hardly put it down. A more emotional, and, at times, darker story than Sarah normally writes, it swept me along and kept me rooting for the characters to the very end. The perpetually sunny disposition of the heroine was a perfect foil for the hero who was so sad and haunted. At times, it almost felt like an old-fashioned Gothic, which was fun. I can't wait to read about the rest of the Jonquil brothers! Another triumph for Sarah M. Eden!
October 15, 2023
The stories that Marion tells reminded me a bit of the DPS. They weren’t as involved, but they wove beautifully into the story. This story was so sweet. And henceforth Philip shall only be known as Flip to me. IYKYK
May 17, 2010
My third Sarah M. Eden book. She's got a lifelong fan here.
September 4, 2017
Very sweet, thoroughly enjoyable escape.
December 16, 2024
This is one of my favorites in this series, mostly because of Caroline, I think! I have read this book (and the series) many times!
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