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The Branwell Chronicles #1
Two in the Bush
Sir Joshua Stiles wants nothing more than to fill the hole in his heart left by his wife's death, but it seems that women are more interested in his fortune than in himself. Cynical and ready to renounce all females, he is none too pleased when his sister invites her dear friend to visit for the Season.
Having survived a joyless marriage, Genevieve Breckinridge has no romantic expectations. In coming to London, she hopes only to cure her daughter's Gothic fantasies. But Sir Joshua seems always to be at hand, either to witness Genevieve's most mortifying moments, or to make himself so agreeable that she wishes she had not given up romance.
When her daughter develops a decided tendre for Sir Joshua, however, Genevieve suddenly realizes where her own heart lies, and must make a painful choice. For what loving mother could—or would—play rival to her own daughter?
Having survived a joyless marriage, Genevieve Breckinridge has no romantic expectations. In coming to London, she hopes only to cure her daughter's Gothic fantasies. But Sir Joshua seems always to be at hand, either to witness Genevieve's most mortifying moments, or to make himself so agreeable that she wishes she had not given up romance.
When her daughter develops a decided tendre for Sir Joshua, however, Genevieve suddenly realizes where her own heart lies, and must make a painful choice. For what loving mother could—or would—play rival to her own daughter?
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2020
About the author
Judith Hale Everett
7 books53 followersJudith Hale Everett writes tongue-in-cheek traditional Regency romance in the immersive style of classic authors, with special emphasis on delightful language, historical accuracy, and no forays into the bedroom.
As one of seven sisters, Judith grew up surrounded by romance novels. Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen were staples, and formed the groundwork for her lifelong love affair with the Regency. Add to that her obsession with the English language and you've got one hopelessly literate romantic.
You can find her at JudithHaleEverett.com or follow her on:
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As one of seven sisters, Judith grew up surrounded by romance novels. Georgette Heyer and Jane Austen were staples, and formed the groundwork for her lifelong love affair with the Regency. Add to that her obsession with the English language and you've got one hopelessly literate romantic.
You can find her at JudithHaleEverett.com or follow her on:
BookBub
Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
December 17, 2020
I love the cover and also had high expectations after having read the short description. Even though the writing style itself was impeccable and very much fitting to the historical context, I couldn't really connect to the characters. The writing itself was amusing and witty but the characters and the chemistry between them could not captivate me enough. I really tried so hard to like them and I kind of feel sorry that I couldn't. In the end, I just skimmed through the last pages to get to the end of the story.
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**
**I received a free copy of this book via BookSirens for leaving an honest review. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.**
August 16, 2021
This is the book I imagine young Anne of Green Gables would have written at some point. The language is pompous in the very best and expected way. It has been a long time since I read a book that got the language of the era they were setting their story in to a -t. Or almost. I do get why some people may think it's a little overdone, hence my comparison to something Anne (with an E) would have looooved. Sooo dramatic ;-) and overlong and complicated. Beautiful. But not everyone's cup of tea, especially if you come from a YA or contemporary background. I would therefore recommend this book to more experienced readers of the genre and Jane Austen veterans and enthusiasts.
The story itself is rather unusual, as it is the mother's perspective we follow here and that is rare for regency romances or anything along those lines. I am in my twenties, so books like that usually still cater to me- however, I did enjoy this more mature perspective a lot. Doubly so because it was a clean romance and the relationship between mother and daughter is therefore never 'betrayed' on a serious physical level.
Should you be looking for steamy reads a la Tessa Dare- move on. This is not it. But should you be in need of a book that does have sizzling albeit innocent touches and looks-- look no further!
When our two soon-to-be-happy-couple characters meet for the first time, it is one of those fatal happenings. Her carriage and hem is six inches (or deeper) deep in mud and he has no patience for a female that blocks his way! Sir Joshua, not in the best of spirits anyway, presents himself as a grumpy fellow, who does the civil and gentlemanly thing anyway- and our female protagonist has spite of her own to match his. She is no 'damsel in distress' in the classic sense. I liked that. For some reason Sir Joshua reminded me of Colonel Brandon, played by Alan Rickman. Did anyone else get the same vibes? And a bit of the main male character of Sanditon?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story itself is rather unusual, as it is the mother's perspective we follow here and that is rare for regency romances or anything along those lines. I am in my twenties, so books like that usually still cater to me- however, I did enjoy this more mature perspective a lot. Doubly so because it was a clean romance and the relationship between mother and daughter is therefore never 'betrayed' on a serious physical level.
Should you be looking for steamy reads a la Tessa Dare- move on. This is not it. But should you be in need of a book that does have sizzling albeit innocent touches and looks-- look no further!
When our two soon-to-be-happy-couple characters meet for the first time, it is one of those fatal happenings. Her carriage and hem is six inches (or deeper) deep in mud and he has no patience for a female that blocks his way! Sir Joshua, not in the best of spirits anyway, presents himself as a grumpy fellow, who does the civil and gentlemanly thing anyway- and our female protagonist has spite of her own to match his. She is no 'damsel in distress' in the classic sense. I liked that. For some reason Sir Joshua reminded me of Colonel Brandon, played by Alan Rickman. Did anyone else get the same vibes? And a bit of the main male character of Sanditon?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2020
Her Knight🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 In Shining Armor💘
A SWEET and CLEAN Regency Romance💕 with Abduction.
Genevieve💃💋 never thought Sir Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪, a long time widower, would be interested in her instead of her debutante daughter👸, Lenora!
Lenora👰, the naive young lady she is, sees all men through the rose tinted glass👓 of the numerous romance novels she reads. She sees Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 as a Knight🐺🔪 in Shining Armor.
Sir Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 seemed to pay the same attention to both women. He saves both of them from several unwelcome brushes with unscrupulous men at society functions. He especially detests Lord Montrose👺, a crony of Genevieve's late wastrel husband.
Montrose👺 seems to be everywhere Genevieve💃💋 goes and he always approaches her! What does the scoundrel want? Sir Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 is bound and determined to deny him!
ARC Provided by Book📚 Sirens💃
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is an extremely well written Regency Era Romance 💕 that uses much of the formal language and sentence structure in use at the time. I found it refreshing and it really helps to set the scene for this historical novel.
A SWEET and CLEAN Regency Romance💕 with Abduction.
Genevieve💃💋 never thought Sir Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪, a long time widower, would be interested in her instead of her debutante daughter👸, Lenora!
Lenora👰, the naive young lady she is, sees all men through the rose tinted glass👓 of the numerous romance novels she reads. She sees Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 as a Knight🐺🔪 in Shining Armor.
Sir Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 seemed to pay the same attention to both women. He saves both of them from several unwelcome brushes with unscrupulous men at society functions. He especially detests Lord Montrose👺, a crony of Genevieve's late wastrel husband.
Montrose👺 seems to be everywhere Genevieve💃💋 goes and he always approaches her! What does the scoundrel want? Sir Joshua🐺🍆⛲💪🔪 is bound and determined to deny him!
ARC Provided by Book📚 Sirens💃
I also got this ebook with KU.
This is an extremely well written Regency Era Romance 💕 that uses much of the formal language and sentence structure in use at the time. I found it refreshing and it really helps to set the scene for this historical novel.
December 20, 2020
I chose to read this book because the premise sounded fun. I love reading historical fiction that has both angst and humor, and this book has both. The humor comes from the witty dialogue, and the angst is due to the circumstances where a loving mother falls in love with a suitor she believes is destined for her daughter. It is refreshingly light and very entertaining, but Ms. Everett really knows her history. It is one of the most accurate historical fiction books I have read.
I absolutely loved the main characters in this book. Genevieve is the perfect mother. She cares for her grown children, Tom and Lenora, and in spite of a miserable marriage, she is not a bitter person. Rather she is resourceful, supportive, brave, and cares very deeply for her family and servants.
Joshua is the brother of Genevieve's dear friend, Amelia. Initially, he is suspicious of Genevieve and suspects that she is taking advantage of Amelia's generosity who is willing to sponsor Leonora for a London season.
Unfortunately, every time Joshua encounters Genevieve, she is in some sort of trouble and as a gentleman, he is forced to rescue her. Their very first encounter when he is trying to deliver Amelia's letter is hysterical.
As the season progresses, and Joshua gets to know Genevieve and her family he grows to admire all of them for the quality people that they are. Tom, Genevieve's son, is a wonderful, hard working young man who works tirelessly to restore his family's finances which were devastated by his father's gambling debts. Leonora and her best friend, Elvira, are two very innocent girls who are obsessed with finding their own gothic adventure when they arrive in London and need constant supervision as a result of this.
This book was so charming that I am very happy that the author will have a second book in this series. I am so happy I discovered her, and I cannot recommend this book enough. The humor, the wonderful characters, the historical accuracy, the wonderful plot--it was perfect!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I absolutely loved the main characters in this book. Genevieve is the perfect mother. She cares for her grown children, Tom and Lenora, and in spite of a miserable marriage, she is not a bitter person. Rather she is resourceful, supportive, brave, and cares very deeply for her family and servants.
Joshua is the brother of Genevieve's dear friend, Amelia. Initially, he is suspicious of Genevieve and suspects that she is taking advantage of Amelia's generosity who is willing to sponsor Leonora for a London season.
Unfortunately, every time Joshua encounters Genevieve, she is in some sort of trouble and as a gentleman, he is forced to rescue her. Their very first encounter when he is trying to deliver Amelia's letter is hysterical.
As the season progresses, and Joshua gets to know Genevieve and her family he grows to admire all of them for the quality people that they are. Tom, Genevieve's son, is a wonderful, hard working young man who works tirelessly to restore his family's finances which were devastated by his father's gambling debts. Leonora and her best friend, Elvira, are two very innocent girls who are obsessed with finding their own gothic adventure when they arrive in London and need constant supervision as a result of this.
This book was so charming that I am very happy that the author will have a second book in this series. I am so happy I discovered her, and I cannot recommend this book enough. The humor, the wonderful characters, the historical accuracy, the wonderful plot--it was perfect!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 28, 2021
I absolutely loved this book. It was engaging, it was amusing, it was multilayered - so, so good. The entirety of the plot and a good portion of the dialogue carried an undertone of irony and satire that was wonderfully reminiscent of Jane Austen's books. The characters are tangible beings that are so alive they seem to practically jump out of the pages to have a conversation with you, and the writing style is a treat to read. I laughed, I smiled, I shivered in apprehension when the villain committed his dastardly deeds - it was glorious! This was my first foray into the regency genre, and this book completely sold me. If you enjoy Jane Austen, this book will exceed your every criterion for a good period piece. I can't wait to read more by this author.
Many thanks to the author, the publisher, and BookSirens for providing me with a free ARC of this book. My review is uninfluenced and has been left voluntarily.
Many thanks to the author, the publisher, and BookSirens for providing me with a free ARC of this book. My review is uninfluenced and has been left voluntarily.
November 20, 2020
I very much enjoyed this regency novel (taking place roughly around 1816) because of its fantastic banter, the multi-faceted romances, and the overall historical setting. In my opinion, the author very nicely tied in the fashion, etiquette, and overall bearing of how people from the regency era would act. I also enjoyed the characters and although some of them were rather frivolous and silly, I think it added to the story and accuracy. The ending was also nice and I would very much be interested in reading other books by Judith Hale Everett.
Thank you to BookSirens, the publisher, and the author for sending me a free ARC of this novel. This has not influenced my review at all, and I leave it voluntarily.
Thank you to BookSirens, the publisher, and the author for sending me a free ARC of this novel. This has not influenced my review at all, and I leave it voluntarily.
November 30, 2020
A 5 star ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ great read!
A so well written historical Regency romance!
Enjoyable!
It had suttle hints of humor and drama though out the entire book. I was mesmerised by its detailed historical back ground. Brillent!
It had well rounded characters. Some were quite dashing and others you really wanted to see them get their well deserved face punched.
It had a very interesting plot and I loved the ending.
Wow! The reader really became part of the story as it unfolded.
I highly recommend this book. Read and enjoy!
I received an ARC free from BookSirens and this is my voluntary honest review
A so well written historical Regency romance!
Enjoyable!
It had suttle hints of humor and drama though out the entire book. I was mesmerised by its detailed historical back ground. Brillent!
It had well rounded characters. Some were quite dashing and others you really wanted to see them get their well deserved face punched.
It had a very interesting plot and I loved the ending.
Wow! The reader really became part of the story as it unfolded.
I highly recommend this book. Read and enjoy!
I received an ARC free from BookSirens and this is my voluntary honest review
November 8, 2020
I just finished this delightful, really excellent book. What a real pleasure it was to read. I consider myself a pretty harsh critic and had given up on the genre as I'd long ago felt I'd exhausted every good, clean regency author. Instead I found myself reading and really enjoying. So much research was done too. Hoping for lots more from this excellent author!
August 25, 2021
This is apparently a debut novel, although a long time in the brewing, but it’s an astonishing performance. There are few authors who can write in a style that sounds authentically Regency, with the properly structured sentences and correct vocabulary, but here’s one who can. And best of all, that gorgeous prose also manages to create wonderfully real human beings (I can’t even bring myself to call them characters!) who live and breathe and yearn and dream within these pages.
Here’s the premise: Genevieve Breckinridge made a mistake when she married, discovering too late that her handsome husband was a feckless good-for-nothing, who gambled and caroused his way through his fortune and hers. Fortunately for her and her two children, Tom and Lenora, Mr Breckinridge managed to get himself killed before he could dispose of the last unentailed cottage on his estate. This cottage is now home to the three of them and their last loyal servants, while the manor house is rented out and son Tom strives to manage the estate back into profitability. With Lenora about to come out, Genevieve’s good friend Lady Cammersby invites them to London for the season, where Lenora’s friend Elvira Chuddsley will also be enjoying the season. Genevieve hopes that introducing the two girls to real live men will drag them away from the world of Gothic melodrama they find in novels.
But her friend has another motive for her invitation. Her brother Sir Joshua Stiles is a widower who’d love to remarry but is finding it difficult to fend off avaricious women only interested in his considerable fortune. Lady Cammersby sees an opportunity to bring happiness to two people who dearly deserve it, so she dispatches Sir Joshua into the country to deliver the letter of invitation personally. This sets off a catalogue of mishaps that put him into the worst possible mood to appreciate Genevieve’s good qualities, while her propensity to get into scrapes at every turn is just the sort of behaviour to put him off her permanently.
And so the principals find themselves in London in the thick of the season, and Genevieve finds herself falling for this rather serious but very gentlemanly man, who also has a well-hidden sense of the absurd. But there’s a hitch - Lenora also admires him, and it seems that Sir Joshua admires her too. This is the basic plot in a nutshell, and while the reader can see where things are going, it’s also easy to understand why Genevieve can’t. She’s constantly in trouble of one sort or another, for one thing, which causes Sir Joshua to tick her off in disapproving style, so she’s quite convinced he doesn’t even like her, and only tolerates her as the mother of Lenora, with whom his relationship is perfectly smooth.
There is a villain, of course, because what self-respecting Regency romance doesn’t have a villain? He’s rather a chilling one, too, all the more so because the unpleasantness is cloaked in perfect manners. I didn’t quite understand why Genevieve didn’t just give him the cut direct, but her actions made sense to her so I went along with it.
The most delightful sub-plot belongs to the two young friends, Lenora and Elvira, who bring all their experience of Gothic novels to bear on the people they meet, trying to fit them into the essential stereotypes. Their hero is not the charming, wealthy and titled man who falls deeply in love with Elvira, since he obtained his success in life with no effort, but his stammering and impoverished friend, who struggles to overcome his disadvantages. They fall out over which of them is actually the heroine in their story, and struggle to identify the evil duke, so necessary for the true Gothic novel. All of this is very funny, although they do eventually come to appreciate that real life is not a Gothic novel, and thank goodness for that!
There were a few Americanisms, like passed, theater, gotten, chaise lounge and (my personal favourite) sunup, which transported me instantly to a ranch somewhere in Texas, with Sir Joshua garbed in a stetson and chaps. Quite a turn it gave me, I can tell you. There were very few of these little glitches, and the only reason they jumped out at me quite so forcefully is that the rest of the prose is so effortlessly Regency.
I hope the author writes a great many more books, because I absolutely loved this. The first few chapters bogged down a little bit in heavy prose combined with an over-lengthy description of Sir Joshua’s travel difficulties, but once that was done and Genevieve came onstage, with her gloriously mellow and slightly scatterbrained personality, everything was wonderful. Highly recommended. Five stars.
Here’s the premise: Genevieve Breckinridge made a mistake when she married, discovering too late that her handsome husband was a feckless good-for-nothing, who gambled and caroused his way through his fortune and hers. Fortunately for her and her two children, Tom and Lenora, Mr Breckinridge managed to get himself killed before he could dispose of the last unentailed cottage on his estate. This cottage is now home to the three of them and their last loyal servants, while the manor house is rented out and son Tom strives to manage the estate back into profitability. With Lenora about to come out, Genevieve’s good friend Lady Cammersby invites them to London for the season, where Lenora’s friend Elvira Chuddsley will also be enjoying the season. Genevieve hopes that introducing the two girls to real live men will drag them away from the world of Gothic melodrama they find in novels.
But her friend has another motive for her invitation. Her brother Sir Joshua Stiles is a widower who’d love to remarry but is finding it difficult to fend off avaricious women only interested in his considerable fortune. Lady Cammersby sees an opportunity to bring happiness to two people who dearly deserve it, so she dispatches Sir Joshua into the country to deliver the letter of invitation personally. This sets off a catalogue of mishaps that put him into the worst possible mood to appreciate Genevieve’s good qualities, while her propensity to get into scrapes at every turn is just the sort of behaviour to put him off her permanently.
And so the principals find themselves in London in the thick of the season, and Genevieve finds herself falling for this rather serious but very gentlemanly man, who also has a well-hidden sense of the absurd. But there’s a hitch - Lenora also admires him, and it seems that Sir Joshua admires her too. This is the basic plot in a nutshell, and while the reader can see where things are going, it’s also easy to understand why Genevieve can’t. She’s constantly in trouble of one sort or another, for one thing, which causes Sir Joshua to tick her off in disapproving style, so she’s quite convinced he doesn’t even like her, and only tolerates her as the mother of Lenora, with whom his relationship is perfectly smooth.
There is a villain, of course, because what self-respecting Regency romance doesn’t have a villain? He’s rather a chilling one, too, all the more so because the unpleasantness is cloaked in perfect manners. I didn’t quite understand why Genevieve didn’t just give him the cut direct, but her actions made sense to her so I went along with it.
The most delightful sub-plot belongs to the two young friends, Lenora and Elvira, who bring all their experience of Gothic novels to bear on the people they meet, trying to fit them into the essential stereotypes. Their hero is not the charming, wealthy and titled man who falls deeply in love with Elvira, since he obtained his success in life with no effort, but his stammering and impoverished friend, who struggles to overcome his disadvantages. They fall out over which of them is actually the heroine in their story, and struggle to identify the evil duke, so necessary for the true Gothic novel. All of this is very funny, although they do eventually come to appreciate that real life is not a Gothic novel, and thank goodness for that!
There were a few Americanisms, like passed, theater, gotten, chaise lounge and (my personal favourite) sunup, which transported me instantly to a ranch somewhere in Texas, with Sir Joshua garbed in a stetson and chaps. Quite a turn it gave me, I can tell you. There were very few of these little glitches, and the only reason they jumped out at me quite so forcefully is that the rest of the prose is so effortlessly Regency.
I hope the author writes a great many more books, because I absolutely loved this. The first few chapters bogged down a little bit in heavy prose combined with an over-lengthy description of Sir Joshua’s travel difficulties, but once that was done and Genevieve came onstage, with her gloriously mellow and slightly scatterbrained personality, everything was wonderful. Highly recommended. Five stars.
December 17, 2020
I truly enjoyed this book. It's one of the best I've read this year. After suffering through several years in an unhappy marriage, Genevieve is widowed. She wants nothing more than to recover her former lifestyle and secure happy futues for her children. Her son has had to grow up fast to work the family farm and make it profitable again. But Genevieve is concerned with her teenage daughter's obsession with gothic romances.
Since Genevieve's finances won't allow her to present her daughter during the London season, she is grateful when a friend agrees to present her.
They travel to London for the season and hopefully to find a husband for her daughter. But since her friend's brother seems perfect for her daughter why is Genevieve feeling a stirring in herself? And why does she always seem to embarass herself in front of him? Will she be able to put her feelings aside for her daughter? Time will tell...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Since Genevieve's finances won't allow her to present her daughter during the London season, she is grateful when a friend agrees to present her.
They travel to London for the season and hopefully to find a husband for her daughter. But since her friend's brother seems perfect for her daughter why is Genevieve feeling a stirring in herself? And why does she always seem to embarass herself in front of him? Will she be able to put her feelings aside for her daughter? Time will tell...
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 20, 2021
I kept forgetting this wasn’t written during the Regency period. It captured the wit and charm of the works of Jane Austen. I’m so impressed by the command of early 19th Century English. A very satisfying romance worthy of a BBC special.
November 27, 2020
It's always refreshing to read a story in which the to-be-matched couple is a bit more mature; Sir Joshua is NEARLY forty and Genevieve has two grown children.
As the blurb advises us, Lenora (Genevieve's daughter) and her best friend Elvira are Gothic novel enthusiasts. In London for their first season they attempt to assign the people they meet to characters of a Gothic novel. While I found this at first endearing and showcases the girls' imagination, their musings in Chapter 8 seemed to be never ending and I was tempted to skim.
Sir Joshua is quick to judge and seems to be a bit of a curmudgeon. But the man is also in the possession of sense of (wry) humor and sterling honor.
Lenora must have inherited her imagination from her mother, who gets so caught up in her own assumptions and expectations, she's blinded to what those close to her plainly do see.
This novel is also equipped with a villain worthy of a Gothic novel, whose schemes - and his victims' eye-roll worthy gullibility - are true to form.
I'm looking forward to the next book and Lenora's story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As the blurb advises us, Lenora (Genevieve's daughter) and her best friend Elvira are Gothic novel enthusiasts. In London for their first season they attempt to assign the people they meet to characters of a Gothic novel. While I found this at first endearing and showcases the girls' imagination, their musings in Chapter 8 seemed to be never ending and I was tempted to skim.
Sir Joshua is quick to judge and seems to be a bit of a curmudgeon. But the man is also in the possession of sense of (wry) humor and sterling honor.
Lenora must have inherited her imagination from her mother, who gets so caught up in her own assumptions and expectations, she's blinded to what those close to her plainly do see.
This novel is also equipped with a villain worthy of a Gothic novel, whose schemes - and his victims' eye-roll worthy gullibility - are true to form.
I'm looking forward to the next book and Lenora's story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 8, 2020
i really enjoyed going through this novel, I enjoyed the time period used and enjoyed getting to watch the romance grow. I look forward to more from the author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 9, 2023
I really enjoyed this story! It was the first book I read by Judith Hale Everett and I immediately started book 2 in the Branwell Chronicles as soon as I finished. I love finding new authors, particularly writers who tell a fresh, original story, giving me characters and settings (and problems!) that differ from the usual Regency (or historical) romance. Her prose challenged me the first few pages but once I settled in, I read happily, voraciously and am very impressed. Well done, Judith. 5 stars!
April 4, 2023
This is a very well written story with a vibe of Jane Austen.
What fascinated me the most was the little sayings and words that you wouldn't hear in modern day speaking, nope, no YOLOs or FOMOs here. We have "dash it" "clodpole" that was really funny, along with "silly goose" and alot of other hilarious words.
I particularly loved the English countryside and the author made my experience well worth it with her descriptive words used. Apart from the countryside, all the talk with the ladies in those days were all about the dresses and dancing, so waltzing in such delicate long dress wear was a vision of beauty in this book.
.
In the authors notes ....
Quote
"First off, I'd like to thank Georgette Heyer for her short story, A Husband for Fanny, which was the inspiration for Two in the Bush."
.
Now I would like to thank the author who wrote "Two in the Bush" and gifting me the ebook in exchange of a fair review. Quite extensive research had been done due to the explanations at the end.
.
5 star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
.
Two in the Bush
Judith Hale Everett
Page Count - 327
Genre - Regency Romance - Historical Romance - Historical Fiction - Romance
.
Pauline Reid
Book Reviewer
New Zealand
What fascinated me the most was the little sayings and words that you wouldn't hear in modern day speaking, nope, no YOLOs or FOMOs here. We have "dash it" "clodpole" that was really funny, along with "silly goose" and alot of other hilarious words.
I particularly loved the English countryside and the author made my experience well worth it with her descriptive words used. Apart from the countryside, all the talk with the ladies in those days were all about the dresses and dancing, so waltzing in such delicate long dress wear was a vision of beauty in this book.
.
In the authors notes ....
Quote
"First off, I'd like to thank Georgette Heyer for her short story, A Husband for Fanny, which was the inspiration for Two in the Bush."
.
Now I would like to thank the author who wrote "Two in the Bush" and gifting me the ebook in exchange of a fair review. Quite extensive research had been done due to the explanations at the end.
.
5 star rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
.
Two in the Bush
Judith Hale Everett
Page Count - 327
Genre - Regency Romance - Historical Romance - Historical Fiction - Romance
.
Pauline Reid
Book Reviewer
New Zealand
November 25, 2020
This is a very well-written, meticulously researched book. It is much in the style of Jane Austen, including the way the characters talk, and the chastity with which they approach romance. The author's historical notes at the end were much appreciated.
It is also a very funny send-up of the gothic romances popular at the time. Our younger heroines are obsessed with these books and try to fashion their own encounters with men into the characters in books, with some alarming results.
This book will not please everyone. It is very wordy. It is written in a style that is foreign to most of us today. It is slow to get started. It does not make you want to be these people but it is quite enjoyable to watch them go through their paces.
Our grown-up heroine, Genevieve, and hero, Joshua are older, both widowed, and quietly taken with each other. She misunderstands his attention to her daughter who is probably about 17. She beats herself up over this, as all heroines seem to do at some point.
There is a villain, skulduggery, danger, and drama but the heroes save the day, and there are two versions of Happily Ever After. First in a series, so I imagine the other characters will get their turn.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It is also a very funny send-up of the gothic romances popular at the time. Our younger heroines are obsessed with these books and try to fashion their own encounters with men into the characters in books, with some alarming results.
This book will not please everyone. It is very wordy. It is written in a style that is foreign to most of us today. It is slow to get started. It does not make you want to be these people but it is quite enjoyable to watch them go through their paces.
Our grown-up heroine, Genevieve, and hero, Joshua are older, both widowed, and quietly taken with each other. She misunderstands his attention to her daughter who is probably about 17. She beats herself up over this, as all heroines seem to do at some point.
There is a villain, skulduggery, danger, and drama but the heroes save the day, and there are two versions of Happily Ever After. First in a series, so I imagine the other characters will get their turn.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 25, 2020
This book is about two teenage girls who are having their first season in London. They find themselves in the midst of the makings of a romantic novel, complete with not one but three hero’s and an evil Duke.
I enjoyed this Regency Romance very much. The plot is intriguing and novel. The descriptive language used by the author paints a great picture for the reader. I appreciate that this novel is a clean read. There is a small amount of violence depicted, but it is not graphic. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good Regency Romance.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Book Sirens for my voluntary unbiased review.
I enjoyed this Regency Romance very much. The plot is intriguing and novel. The descriptive language used by the author paints a great picture for the reader. I appreciate that this novel is a clean read. There is a small amount of violence depicted, but it is not graphic. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good Regency Romance.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from Book Sirens for my voluntary unbiased review.
December 20, 2020
This was an intelligently written story that pulls you into the time period. The characters were believable. A young widow, Genevieve and her imaginative daughter's coming out is plagued by a past enemy. They are saved frequently by Sir Joshua. Though Genevieve holds a tendre for the widowed Sir isaac who is the same age as her she is fearful his affections are for her daughter. Though at times it seemed drawn out it was a very nice story. I received a complimentary copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 7, 2021
Two in the Bush is an enjoyable Regency romance by Judith Hail Everett. Sue Joshua Stiles lost his heart when his wife died. The ladies he met only wanted his money. When Joshua’s sister invited Genevieve Breckinridge to stay with them during the season, he was not a happy man. What follows is pure fun with witty exchanges between the characters. If you enjoy Regency romance books, this is a wonderful story. I received an arc for my honest review.
May 16, 2023
More a 3.5
I liked this unassuming novel in general, both the plot and the characters aren't much of a novelty in the historical romance world, but the simplicity of things kind of worked.
However, I did wish the author could have given a bit more intensity to some situations, that she could have stressed out some angst and drama moments - not overdoing them, but pushing things into the perfect point to make this even more consistent.
I suppose the goal was to highlight the work of attempting a more formal writing style, more in tune with how people back then might have spoken, thought? If so, this seemed to be accomplished but the way i saw it, it also made for some weaker scenes and certainly annoying characters here and there, especially the younger immature ones.
I liked this unassuming novel in general, both the plot and the characters aren't much of a novelty in the historical romance world, but the simplicity of things kind of worked.
However, I did wish the author could have given a bit more intensity to some situations, that she could have stressed out some angst and drama moments - not overdoing them, but pushing things into the perfect point to make this even more consistent.
I suppose the goal was to highlight the work of attempting a more formal writing style, more in tune with how people back then might have spoken, thought? If so, this seemed to be accomplished but the way i saw it, it also made for some weaker scenes and certainly annoying characters here and there, especially the younger immature ones.
Read
December 23, 2020DNF
February 1, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ This regency romance has a bit of a cheeky tone. I enjoyed it. This book is a clean romance with era language.
Widow Genevieve Breckinridge hopes to introduce her daughter Lenora into society with her friend's invitation to stay with her and her brother for the season.
Said brother, the grumpy Sir Joshua Stiles seems to showup at all of Genevieve's most embarrassing moments. He is always civil towards Genevieve though she feels his disaproval.
Lenora and her friend read stories and romanticize meeting a hero and a villain. When I think of Lenora and her friend, I hear Jane Austin's Mr. Bennet voice say "they are all silly and ignorant like other girls."
Genevieve is huanted by her husbands past acquaintance and warns Lenora about the real dangers in the world a little too late. Genevieve may have to rely on Sir Joshua for aid again.
Widow Genevieve Breckinridge hopes to introduce her daughter Lenora into society with her friend's invitation to stay with her and her brother for the season.
Said brother, the grumpy Sir Joshua Stiles seems to showup at all of Genevieve's most embarrassing moments. He is always civil towards Genevieve though she feels his disaproval.
Lenora and her friend read stories and romanticize meeting a hero and a villain. When I think of Lenora and her friend, I hear Jane Austin's Mr. Bennet voice say "they are all silly and ignorant like other girls."
Genevieve is huanted by her husbands past acquaintance and warns Lenora about the real dangers in the world a little too late. Genevieve may have to rely on Sir Joshua for aid again.
March 25, 2021
Two in the Bush by Judith Hale Everett is a classic historical with a modern twist.
Hale Everett, like Georgette Heyer, makes the Regency world come alive in her novel with her well-researched references to period books, etiquette, fashion, economy, entertainment, and vocabulary. However, unlike most books in the genre, the hero and heroine in this romance are, refreshingly, mature adults in their late thirties or early forties. This twist is what particularly attracted me to the novel. I enjoyed reading about experienced characters who know how to negotiate the rules of Regency society, while still remaining true to themselves. However, the author doesn’t spend as much time as I would have liked developing their relationship. A few more chapters from Sir Joshua’s point of view would have been greatly appreciated and would have made the ending seem a little less rushed. Instead, the author focuses a great part of her book on the supporting characters, such as debutantes Lenora and Elvira whose shared love of Gothic novels, a nice nod to Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, provides some wonderfully entertaining moments.
Two in the Bush, the first book in the Branwell Chronicles is a classic Regency romance that will particularly appeal Georgette Heyer fans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Hale Everett, like Georgette Heyer, makes the Regency world come alive in her novel with her well-researched references to period books, etiquette, fashion, economy, entertainment, and vocabulary. However, unlike most books in the genre, the hero and heroine in this romance are, refreshingly, mature adults in their late thirties or early forties. This twist is what particularly attracted me to the novel. I enjoyed reading about experienced characters who know how to negotiate the rules of Regency society, while still remaining true to themselves. However, the author doesn’t spend as much time as I would have liked developing their relationship. A few more chapters from Sir Joshua’s point of view would have been greatly appreciated and would have made the ending seem a little less rushed. Instead, the author focuses a great part of her book on the supporting characters, such as debutantes Lenora and Elvira whose shared love of Gothic novels, a nice nod to Jane Austen’s Northanger Abbey, provides some wonderfully entertaining moments.
Two in the Bush, the first book in the Branwell Chronicles is a classic Regency romance that will particularly appeal Georgette Heyer fans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 3, 2021
This novel takes place in the Regency era, the beginnings of the eighteen hundreds. Two best friends are going to the Season in London to look for prospective husbands. Lorena, whose father had squandered the family money and was dead, is going to be presented by a friend of her mother’s. Elvira, Lorena’s best friend is also going to be presented by her aunt. Both girls are heavily into romance novels and plot their desires for the coming out. They want a villain, a poor man who actually will have money, a hero and all sorts of characters from the novels. Although the girls are 18, they act much younger with their vivid imagination. The girl’s musings are so well explored by the author and while seeming silly are very apropos to young girls. Unfortunately their vivid imaginations get in the way of true romance. The characters are well defined and believable for the timeframe. The societal images are well researched. I do not usually enjoy this type of romance novels but found this one interesting. Thanks to the author and BookSiren for this advanced review copy for my honest opinion.
December 2, 2020
Two in the bush is a historical novel about two widowers in Regency England. Sir Joshua Stiles has decided that the time is right to remarry and enters London society in search of a bride. Genevieve Breckinridge is an impoverished widow whose husband died full of debts leaving her with two children. After much hardship, she managed to pay off her debts and since her daughter is old enough they came to London for the Season benefiting from the generosity of a friend, Sir Joshua's sister. The stage is set for the usual rides in Hyde Bark, assemblies, balls, and shopping trips that are usual in this kind of novel. Will Sir Joshua choose the more mature Mrs Breckunridge or will he go for her young daughter?
The writing in this novel is quite elaborate, the historical research is good, the details are generally colorful and I really liked the cover design. Unfortunately, the plot and its developments are not very original, the villain is two-dimensional and overall the story was only ok. I wish the story could hold up to the great writing.
The writing in this novel is quite elaborate, the historical research is good, the details are generally colorful and I really liked the cover design. Unfortunately, the plot and its developments are not very original, the villain is two-dimensional and overall the story was only ok. I wish the story could hold up to the great writing.
December 25, 2020
I loved the silliness in Two in the Bush, not just Lenora and her friend, but her brother as well. And he was doing it for all the right reasons, or so he thought. And even Genevieve, who happened to behave like a feather-headed pea goose - yes, the lingo was one of the details I thoroughly enjoyed. As was the art work on the cover.
Looking forward to book two in this series!
Thanks to Booksirens for a copy of the book.
Looking forward to book two in this series!
Thanks to Booksirens for a copy of the book.
April 4, 2021
Two in the Bush is the debut novel of Judith Hale Everett. This book was well written and had adventures, romance and more. Sir Joshua is there whenever Genevieve gets herself in a pickle. What happens from the moment they meet makes for a good storyline. I received this ARC in exchange for a voluntary honest review which I have freely written here.
December 7, 2020
This was written by a good friend of mine. I was honored to be asked to be a beta reader for this wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed it then, and I thoroughly enjoyed it now! If you are a fan of Georgette Heyer, I believe you will love this book! I highly recommend it.
April 16, 2023
Enjoyed this, very Georgette Heyer like!
March 1, 2021
I really had to take my time reading this story. The language was very formal especially to the way we speak now. I did enjoy it. Mrs. Breckinridge was in a bad marriage. Her husband gambled away his money and left them with very little. Her oldest son, Tom, helped her pay off her husband's debts.
Lenora was the youngest of her two children and was eighteen and ready for her come-out. Her mom's dear friend(Lady Cammerby), said she would love to sponsor her. So the two girls came to London. They met Lenora's best friend(Elvira), who was also coming out during this season. As the girls put it they were looking for an evil Duke (Lord Montrose), who was the lucky one to get that moniker. They enjoyed a lot of Gothic novels and decided to make their life sort of a novel. Of Course, there were others, like Sir Joshua Stiles who was the brother of Lady Cammerby.
Mr. Ginsham found her friend(Elvira) alluring. This was a complicated story. There are enough people who are introduced into the plot, names that can be mixed up. You will see what I mean when you read this book. I found this novel enchanting and engaging. The characters are amazing and tried so hard to stay within the rules of society. It can be hard sometimes. It was easy to read and at times funny. Mrs. Breckinridge was rather fond of Sir Joshua Stiles and he was always there when she needed help. Since his wife had died he hadn't wanted to get married again. He had three good years with her and he didn't want the hassle of the marriage mart. I highly recommend this novel for pretty much the entire family.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
Lenora was the youngest of her two children and was eighteen and ready for her come-out. Her mom's dear friend(Lady Cammerby), said she would love to sponsor her. So the two girls came to London. They met Lenora's best friend(Elvira), who was also coming out during this season. As the girls put it they were looking for an evil Duke (Lord Montrose), who was the lucky one to get that moniker. They enjoyed a lot of Gothic novels and decided to make their life sort of a novel. Of Course, there were others, like Sir Joshua Stiles who was the brother of Lady Cammerby.
Mr. Ginsham found her friend(Elvira) alluring. This was a complicated story. There are enough people who are introduced into the plot, names that can be mixed up. You will see what I mean when you read this book. I found this novel enchanting and engaging. The characters are amazing and tried so hard to stay within the rules of society. It can be hard sometimes. It was easy to read and at times funny. Mrs. Breckinridge was rather fond of Sir Joshua Stiles and he was always there when she needed help. Since his wife had died he hadn't wanted to get married again. He had three good years with her and he didn't want the hassle of the marriage mart. I highly recommend this novel for pretty much the entire family.
I received this ARC from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.
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