Wanted: Governess. Properly qualified in English, to instruct male pupil in rural location.

Sydney, 1902. Desperate for a job, Kate Courtney travels to the faraway New England Ranges to interview for a governess position. She is greeted by wealthy landowner, ruggedly handsome Tom Fortescue, and is shocked to find that her new charge isn’t a small boy—but the grown man.

It was Tom’s mother’s dying wish that he finds a refined, elegant, English bride to marry. But a country man with country manners can never win a lady fair. Tom needs Kate to smooth away his rough edges, make him desirable to the English rose he wants to marry.

But the more time Kate and Tom spend together, the closer they become, and Tom has to decide between the dreams of his childhood, and the reality that is right in front of him.

My thoughts:

I am not a fan of Historical Romance and I rarely pick them up to read. Unless it has something more to offer than just sex scene fillers (as I call them), I am just not interested. I am delighted I decided to pick up, Lessons in Loving. What first captured my attention was the cover, a male writer and this, “…is shocked to find that her new charge isn’t a small boy—but the grown man.” I haven’t read that sort of plot twist before! I thought, “Oh, this is going to be good.”

When I began to read the story, I started to have a little doubt. I felt the beginning was not strong enough but as I read on, the story-line became stronger and I was pleased with the character development and dialogue. I am delighted to report that this story does not have sex scene fillers and I devoured this book quickly.

I did however want to knock the handsome Tom Fortescue over the head a few times but hey, his stupid choices at times makes for an entertaining read. I wouldn’t mind reading more about him.

I did like how Kate took charge in the beginning of the story, though I felt she could be a bit too trusting at times but how things turn out might surprise you.

Charming story-a tad bit predictable- but, interesting characters, enjoyed reading the interaction between Kate and Tom, lovely settings and an intriguing plot. I will be looking for more books by this author.

I rated this story: Three Stars.

Stephanie M. Hopkins