RULES FOR A PROPER GOVERNESS by Jennifer Ashley is a page-
turner that is not only exciting, but has characters that
beguile from their first appearance on the page. And I'm
also happy to say, that even though this is part of a
series (Mackenzies and McBrides number seven), the
storyline is
completely stand alone. The allusions to the other
characters' stories do perk interest in those
directions—like a good series book should do.
Roberta "Bertie" Frasier is fascinated by the
lilting Scottish accent of barrister Sinclair McBride, as
she hears him try a case in court. Later, she steals both
a
pocket watch and a kiss from him.
Her fascination takes her further. She finds out where he
lives and watches his comings and goings. One day, in the
park, she encounters two very unruly children and their
disgruntled governess. Bertie rescues them from harm and
then finds herself having to escort them home after their
governess deserts them. She finds out that they are the
children of the enigmatic Sinclair McBride.
And that is how Bertie finds herself as the not-so-proper
governess to two young hellions who adore her. It is also
how Bertie the pickpocket finds herself falling for the
barrister who is called "Basher." Their witty repartee and
unlikely pairing are a joy to read about.
1885 London—both the dodgy and posh sides—are
realistically
imagined and described. The hero and the heroine are
complex individuals who both need saving from their
different, yet lonely lives. If you like a strong female
character who doesn't mind getting her hands dirty and who
can do a little rescuing herself, then Bertie Frasier is
for you. Also, check out the other books by Jennifer
Ashley
in the Mackenzies and McBrides' series. I certainly
plan to.
TO KISS A THIEF...
Scottish barrister Sinclair McBride can face the most
sinister criminals in London—but the widower’s two unruly
children are a different matter. Little Caitlin and Andrew
go through a governess a week, sending the ladies fleeing
in
tears. There is, however, one woman in town who can hold
her
own.
Roberta “Bertie” Frasier enters Sinclair’s life by
stealing
his watch—and then stealing a kiss. Intrigued by the
handsome highlander, Bertie winds up saving his children
from a dangerous situation and returning them to their
father. Impressed with how they listen to her, Sinclair
asks
the lively beauty to be their governess, never guessing
that
the unconventional lady will teach him a lesson or two in
love.