C2’s review of A Gentleman Never Tells by Eloisa James
Historical Romance novella released by Avon 28 Jun 16
Greetings, faithful reader! If you recall, in my last review (if you didn’t read it, that’s okay…I’ll save my weeping for after I finish writing this one), I mentioned there was a connected novella releasing soon. And so it did! Wanna know what I thought?? Of course you do! Onward!!
A Gentleman Never Tells is set in the same world as the Essex sisters quartet and in the same time frame as the novella included in the Official Essex Sisters Companion Guide.
Our heroine is the sister of one of the wallflowers “out” at the same time as Josie (from Pleasure for Pleasure) – and one of the young ladies harmed by cruel nicknames given by some very rude young men…in this case the Woolly Breeder. Gah! Men in groups can be awful – and are seldom as clever as they think they are. Just an aside…
Anyway, WB has gone on to make a very good marriage and is extremely happy – and wants the same for her widowed sister. Lizzie Troutt’s husband has been dead more than a year, but their marriage was a scandal – her husband made no effort to hide that he was in love with his mistress and had a child with her. He never was remotely interested in Lizzie, but he was very fond of her dowry. Obviously enough, Lizzie isn’t overly enthused about finding another man.
Our hero, Oliver Berwick, was part of the group of young men that repeated the horrible nicknames given during that fateful season and has guilt because of it. When he is invited to a house party at the home of Lizzie’s sister, he sees it as an opportunity to make amends (by apologizing) and accept whatever punishment might be appropriate (like getting slapped). He does not expect to be immediately taken with the sister of his hostess.
Oh, reader, this is a novella, so I can’t go into too much detail. But let me say this story is so sweet and funny. When a very determined man meets a very reluctant woman and is determined to woo her? Wooing will happen.
The relationship between the sisters is fun, too. As is the relationship between the sister and her husband. And Josie and Mayne make a cameo appearance, as well.
I highly recommend this novella. It is a fun, quick read that leaves you with a smile on your face. (And if you’re a sucker for the virgin widow plot – bonus!) I hope Ms. James’s lighter take on things continues (not that she was gloomy before) – such fun!
My grade: A
Summary:
Eighteen months ago, Lizzie Trout’s husband died in his mistress’s bed, leaving her determined to never marry again….and unfortunately virginal.
Eighteen years ago (give or take a few) the Honorable Oliver Berwick blackened his own soul, leaving him hardened and resolutely single.
When the chance for redemption in the form of a country house party invitation comes his way, Oliver is determined to prove himself a gentleman.
Until he breaks all the codes of gentlemanly behavior…once again.
Read an excerpt!
Connected books:
