Calliope St. James is a foundling who, after being rescued from the workhouse, has devoted her life to teaching children. When Lord Winn Hamilton, the Earl of Montgomery, reviews her impeccable references, he resolves to hire her as governess for his recently orphaned nieces and nephew. To his dismay, he discovers that the new governess is far too attractive to be working in the home of a single man, and what is more, far too similar to the portrait of a mysterious, long-dead woman with powerful enemies. Just who were Calliope St. James’ true parents? And is it any of Winn’s business to interfere?
This book was a wallpaper historical with modern-feeling characters chivied into a Regency setting. Calliope, who has the enthusiasm and heart of a drop-dead gorgeous Mary Poppins, takes it upon herself to educate Winn on how to treat his new charges. Winn is interested in providing her with a wholly different sort of education, making this novel a little racier than the books I tend to read and review. A subplot with Calliope’s villainous relative hits on all the modern mores regarding homosexual relationships. All in all, this book was a quick read that fans of Regency-lite might enjoy.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of this title from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rosanne E. Lortz 