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The Sly Governess by Everly Rosabell - Mary Stafford and her sisters discover that their brother has made some decisions resulting in the family fortune being severely diminished. Mary decides to apply for a post as governess and is accepted at Hawthorne Manor in Cornwall. The household is an unusual one, with the bachelor duke as guardian of his young nephew, and an overly familiar and friendly staff. Rumours about the duke's possible involvement in piracy abound in the ton, but although Mary is curious she is determined not to be scared off. She soon grows attached to the little boy and his preoccupation with pirates; and develops a trusting friendship with the duke.
I enjoyed the unusual characters, and it was a unique and interesting storyline, so I was kept turning pages to see what would happen. As a historical novel, it was difficult to pinpoint that it was intended to be set during the Regency period, and there were some anachronisms. This was a very minor concern and in itself did not take away from the story. However, something that did distract from the story far too often were the errors that should never have fallen through the editing process. Errors in word usage were common (such as using wonder instead of wander many times, and shall/will mistakes), as were inconsistencies and mistakes in titles and manners of the era. Even allowing for the eccentricities of the characters, there were many situations that would have been an enormous departure from the social norms and acceptable behaviors, so that indicates to me that more research was needed.
As a side note, this book is listed as Christian historical, but there really was no overtly Christian theme or message. It is definitely clean in terms of language and moral behavior, which is greatly appreciated!
A promising young author with potential that could be more fully realized with the help of an experienced human editor and some more research.
From the publisher:
Something is going on at Hawthorne Manor . . .
When a crippling debt forces the Stafford siblings to sell their home, Mary leaves her life of luxury to take up the position of Governess for the eccentric Hawthorne family.
With rumours of her new employer being involved in the black market and sightings of pirates raging through the Ton - Mary must tread carefully lest she brings further shame upon her family.
However, she soon learns that the daring Duke Hawthorne is not what the rumours make him out to be. As they grow closer and discover more of each other's secrets, Mary finds the desire to return home slowly beginning to fade . . .
*If you enjoy a strong female lead, mysterious Dukes and the high society drama of the Regency courtships, then you will adore The Sly Governess!
This is Everly Rosabell's debut publication and the first novel in the Stafford Sisters Quartet.
I received a digital copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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