–A LIBRARY JOURNAL BEST ROMANCE of 2020–“A kindhearted love story that will delight anyone who longs to be loved without limits. Highly recommended.” -Library Journal, STARRED review.“Historical romance fans won’t want to miss this.” -Publishers Weekly, STARRED reviewA Secret Burden…After a mysterious sojourn in Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to … Paris, Beryl Burnham has returned home to the village of Shepton Worthy ready to resume the life she left behind. Betrothed to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, she has no reason to be unhappy–or so people keep reminding her. But Beryl’s life isn’t as perfect as everyone believes.
A Longstanding Love…
As village curate, Mark Rivenhall is known for his compassionate understanding. When his older brother’s intended needs a shoulder to lean on, Mark’s more than willing to provide one. There’s no danger of losing his heart. He already lost that to Beryl a long time ago.
During an idyllic Victorian summer, friends and family gather in anticipation of Beryl and Sir Henry’s wedding. But in her darkest moment, it’s Mark who comes to Beryl’s aid. Can he help her without revealing his feelings–or betraying his brother?
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Fair as a Star by Mimi Matthews is a superb Victorian romance. I’ve been dealing with a bit of depression lately and hit a slight reading slump. The cure for both my depression and reading slump apparently was to read this book! I actually laughed out loud when I got a few pages in and realized that one of the main conflicts in this story is depression. My husband chuckled when I told him and said, “Sounds like the book was written just for you.” Mimi Matthews has no idea who I am, but I do believe that when authors write the stories they do it’s because God has a reader in mind. Fair as a Star was a book God wanted me to read!
There is so much to love about this story. The plot is highly engaging. This is one of those books where you say to yourself, “Just one more chapter. Oh! End of the chapter. I can do one more.” The characters are superbly written. I especially relate to Beryl and her emotional issues. In fact, there are moments in this story where Beryl’s inner dialogue and her confessions felt like deja vu. I know what this character is going through because I’ve been there! I appreciate the historical illustration of how Victorian society felt about depression and the various methods to effect a “cure,” but it is Mark’s strategies for helping Beryl that I truly love. Not only do his strategies show common sense and selflessness, but they also illustrates what a superior hero Mark is in this novel. And ladies, Mark is a superior hero! Boy, did I swoon a few times. Which leads me to what I love the most about this story — the relationship between Mark and Beryl. It’s perfect. They are longtime friends who slowly figure out that they are more. I found their progress from friends to lovers perfectly paced and quite believable.
In roughly 200 pages, Matthews is able to pack quite the punch. She delves into such topics as depression, gossip, faith, societal expectations, friendship, love, and respect. My favorite discussion is in regards to personal flaws. Beryl is very honest about her flaws, but she is a bit presumptuous in that she believes she needs to be flawless in order for someone to love her. She tries so hard to hide the dark side of herself and only show the light side that she runs away from home for one year so no one sees her personal battle. That’s quite an extraordinary length to go to to prevent others from seeing a character flaw! Yes, it is good for us to recognize our sins and shortcomings, and it is excellent of us to try to rectify those issues. But to pretend at perfection is never the answer. Being the “perfect” person we think society, family, and friends want is exhausting. The only being ever to be perfect is Jesus. We can do our best to emulate Him, but we will never be able to be perfect this side of Heaven. If someone cannot accept you for your good AND bad, then that someone isn’t capable of loving you. It’s the one who can accept your bad with your good who is able to illustrate true love. Remember, love covers a multitude of sins. Love doesn’t ever throw your sins in your face. Not only is this a great lesson for Beryl to learn, but it’s a great reminder for us readers, too!
Fair as a Star is a superb novel that I cannot recommend enough. This is another home run by Mimi Matthews; one you won’t want to miss!
I received a copy of this novel in eBook form from Perfectly Proper Press via NetGalley in order to review. I also pre-ordered an eBook copy of this novel from Amazon.com as well. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.
I have recommended a lot of Mimi Matthews books, but IMHO, this is her BEST! It is deeply emotional with a unique love story….. somehow the love story seems both realistic and idealistic, even though those are contradiction in terms! It is a sweet forbidden love story, in which the heroine is only able to show her deepest self to the hero, who tenderly protects her secret. It was just beautiful! It is a novella, so the pace is brisk and it covers a lot of territory. This book is still lingering with me days after I read it.
This might just be Mimi Matthew’s best book yet. I have loved virtually everything she’s written, but but FAIR AS A STAR is so strong, so compelling. She has so much power and confidence in her voice that I just give myself over to her characters and world. I loved everything about this one, and did not want it to end. Five glorious stars. An amazing, inspiring, heartwarming read.
Fair as a Star is the brilliant first novella in the Victorian Romantics series by Mimi Matthews. Yes, I do fangirl gush about her books, but I just can’t help myself! I seriously consider her on par with other historical romance greats such as Mary Balogh, Grace Burrowes and Lisa Kleypas. This book was particularly special to me, the reason for which I will shortly reveal.
Beryl Burnham was on a long trip to Paris with her aunt, and she has finally returned home to Shepton Worthy, where she was soon to be married to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall. Her family hopes she is no longer “glum” and will be excited about her wedding preparations. Things are not as they seem with Beryl, however. When she needs a sympathetic shoulder to lean on, Mark Rivenhall, the village curate – and brother to Sir Henry – is there for her. They have always been friends..but apparently there is something more in their secret hearts. When an issue arises between Beryl and Sir Henry, can things be resolved without all three of them becoming lost and miserable?
Beryl was a totally unique heroine: she suffered from clinical depression. That was an especially scary malady during Victorian times, with such brutal “treatment” methods being used. Beryl did her best to try to be normal so those treatments would not be used on her. She was a sweet and loving young woman who did her best to hide her struggle with “melancholia” . Mark was a perfect hero for her. He didn’t judge her or think she was crazy. In her low moments he would read her favorite books to her. He recommended journaling to help her deal with her issues and give her an outlet to let them go. He gave her a nasty, ugly little dog that didn’t seem to like most people but who adored Beryl. But most meaningful of all, he told her to give him her problems so he could shoulder them for a day or two for her. It was simply a beautiful romance.
Why was this story so meaningful to me? I suffer from clinical depression and anxiety, and have for most of my life. People who don’t have it often don’t understand it. You’re not depressed due to a situation…you just ARE. These days treatment is so much easier. Even then you still suffer from it, but the bad times become shorter and less severe. I journal, like Beryl. I don’t have an ugly little dog, but cats. What was wonderful about this book was the way Miss Matthews beautifully put into words how it FELT. You could feel Beryl’s darkness. I never read depression being so perfectly explained. Miss Matthews truly has a gift.
I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Oh my sweetness! This was precious and tender without being cheesy. I loved it all. Perfection in a novella, and I don’t say that lightly because I can be more critical of novellas than some. I could not help but fall in love with this sweet story. The look at depression during a time when it was considered such a stigma is sad and eye-opening. If I had to describe the story in one word, it would be triumphant. Beryl triumphs despite her difficulties; the man doesn’t swoop in to save her, she saves herself, but he supports her and loves her through it all, and is, first and foremost, her friend and staunchest advocate. The period details are exquisite as well, which doesn’t surprise me about this author one bit. I’ve gotten to the point that I automatically pre-order her books, and this novella reminded me why I continue to do that.
Mimi Matthews has quickly become one of my very favorite authors! Her stories grab you from the very first page, her words pitch perfect as is her sense of time and place. The characters are readily relatable and engaging, despite the centuries that separate us, and you will easily long to spend more time with them when your reading is complete.
Fair as a Star is no exception, and I’m thrilled that it’s the start of a new series of Victorian romance novellas from Matthews. (I also already have strong opinions on which supporting characters in this 1st novella should get their own stories in future installments of the series, too. haha!)
Though by definition, Fair as a Star may be a novella, it will leave your reader sensibilities just as satisfied as if you’d read a longer novel. Beryl & Mark are smartly drawn and well-layered, their longstanding friendship heartwarming, their romance breathtaking. I loved their shared love of Dickens’ and the way that manifested in some of the more tender moments in their relationship. Mark’s integrity, compassion, faith, and honor make him an excellent clergyman, brother, friend, and romantic hero – in fact, setting him a cut above most depictions of all of the above for that era. (He’s super swoony, too! That first kiss! I still haven’t recovered.) Beryl is a quietly courageous heroine with an inner strong will that many don’t notice but that, in fact, has saved both her life and her own compassionate heart.
Speaking of Beryl’s bravery, the focus on what we now know as clinical depression (‘melancholia’) & the stigma associated with it in Victorian times (and sadly still today, in many ways) hits a spot in my soul that many books do not. Beryl is a character I understand on a personal level, and her fight to overcome the melancholia that seemingly overtakes her without rhyme or reason – and to rise above the pain of others’ lack of understanding & sometimes harmful opinions on the matter – is written with great compassion & insight. Mark’s instinctive decision to not try to ‘fix her’ (“He gave her a brief, lopsided smile. “Of course not,” he said. “You’re not broken.”) but instead educating himself on her condition, supporting her as needed, and loving her no matter what endeared him even further to me. And oh please say that Dr. Black has a story coming up soon!
Bottom Line: Fair as a Star is another winner from author Mimi Matthews! Beautiful writing, vivid & engaging characters, and swoony romance share the pages with wit, compassion, and authenticity. The look at depression, living with it as well as loving someone who suffers from it, is done with great sensitivity and empathy, and yet the book still avoids becoming either too heavy or too trite. You will smile, you will swoon, and you will even probably laugh a little. If you haven’t yet read a Mimi Matthews book, this is the perfect one to start with!
(I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I purchased for my own collection.)
This author’s stories are always a delight to read, even when she tackles difficult themes. Her characters are so vibrant, and I find myself completely immersed. I love the friendship between Mark and Beryl, and the way he thoughtfully supports her unconditionally. He is in such a hard position, divided between loyalty to his brother and his own romantic feelings. His relationship with his brother is complex, and it was interesting to see bits and pieces emerge that gave deeper understanding to the dynamic. Beryl struggles with frequent bouts of melancholy, what we know today as depression. The author was delicate in her portrayal as she explored the ways it affected Beryl’s well-being, her otherwise golden personality, and how she managed to cope with the symptoms, despite the misunderstandings in the medical field at the time. What I especially loved was the overall feeling of hopefulness as Mark learns of her condition and becomes her champion- listening, understanding, and encouraging. It was such a contrast to the others in her life who were trying, but didn’t know where to find the answers or how to “fix it.” Beryl is going through a season of self-discovery, and I loved her strength and kindness as she learns more about herself and what she truly wants for her future. Highly recommend!!!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions expressed are my own)
I adore Mimi Matthews’ writing and storytelling style. There really isn’t any hurdle she can’t overcome in her tales—from heroes with facial scars, physical or mental disabilities, differences in social standing, to the differences in races—so I was not surprised she would tackle a story with a heroine battling depression, in an era when depression carried a frightening stigma and might even land one in a dangerous mental asylum. In Matthews’ latest novella, “Fair as a Star”, she addresses depression honestly—and creates a gorgeous love story, and an unlikely happily-ever-after is achieved! From the first pages to the last, I was cheering for Beryl, closing the book with a contented heart and most satisfying resolution for all. Brava! Five stars for “Fair as a Star”.
Lovely, romantic, and uplifting.
Fair as a Star by Mimi Matthews is a lovely, romantic, and uplifting historical romance that explores serious topics in a light but effective way.
I am a huge fan of Mimi Matthews’ work. Her stories take me to a happy place and bring peace to my soul.
Her most recent book, Fair as a Star, did not disappoint. It is a charming historical romance between a curate, Mark, and his childhood friend and neighbor, Beryl.
Mark and Beryl are intrinsically good. They are sweet, thoughtful, responsible, and love their families and community.
Beryl is vulnerable, but yet so very strong. She is compassionate and understanding. She was dealing with a challenging situation, but she did not let it cloud her judgment of others.
Mark is the sweetest of men. Friendzoned and in love with his brother’s fiancee, he kept taking great care of his parishioners and trying to hide his broken heart.
The side characters are delightful. Beryl’s sister Winnifred is obstinate and resilient; her youthful enthusiasm is contagious. Mark’s brother Henry is cold and practical. He had to save their estate from ruin after the death of their wastrel father, and it left a heavy toll on him.
I was hoping Winnie and Henry would eventually be a pair, but the charming local doctor seems like a more probable candidate.
Beryl has a secret, and it broke my heart to think about how many people had to face the same situation without being believed or understood.
Mark was wonderful, he reminded me of Mark Darcy in Bridget Jones. He loved Beryl, just the way she was.
Last but not least, Ernest, the dog, and Vesper, the stallion made the story lighter and fun.
Mimi Matthews, once again, brings an emotional and captivating story. Max and Beryl are my new favorite characters! I read it in one seat. I just could not stop myself
I highly recommend it!
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
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I adored this sweet Victorian romance! It has a steady curate for a hero, a brave heroine, and the depth I’ve come to expect from a Mimi Matthews story. Slight moments of humor, a lush Victorian country setting, and an adorable dog named Ernest round out this novella.
I am always pleasantly surprised by the unexpected themes and facets of humanity depicted in Mimi Matthews’ stories. In this instance, she sensitively delves into a tough one: mental illness and depression. With delicate care, Beryl’s melancholy (the Victorian term) is revealed in subtle ways. As Beryl struggles not to be defined by her unexplainable issues, her bravery and caring nature shine through. Much like her hobby of embroidery and her personal struggles, she keeps these things concealed to all but her best friend Mark, the hero who truly knows her.
Now let’s talk about Mark Rivenhall! His compassionate strength is admirable, with an uncompromising character in moments when he could lash out or declare his true feelings for Beryl. I especially appreciate the way he takes his role as curate seriously, as he does his role as brother to Henry and friend to Beryl. He is a friend to her first and foremost. It is touching that when Beryl sees flaws in herself, Mark sees only HER and answers her needs with his steady love and support. The romance in this story unfurls with HOPE, while the history already shared between Mark and Beryl makes it all the sweeter.
I’m thrilled this is the first in a new “Victorian Romantics” novella series by Mimi Matthews! I’m hopeful we’ll see some of the characters from this story again — especially Dr. Black!
Thank you to HFVBT for the review copy. This is my honest review.
Anything new from Mimi Matthews is reason to celebrate, and Fair as a Star might be her most accomplished yet. It’s a simple story of a young woman preparing for her marriage — or so it seems. Because Beryl Burnham, despite her engagement to the wealthy Sir Henry Rivenhall, is hardly as happy as someone in her enviable position should be. She is back from Paris with little to worry her but her upcoming nuptials. Slowly, peeling back the story in a delicious manner, we begin to understand that Beryl’s life is more complicated than it appears. The trip to Paris was not a pleasure jaunt. Sir Henry is a fine man, but what about his younger brother, Mark, the local curate? Through this love story, Matthews takes the reader through an understanding of the complexities of depression and the attitudes toward it in the Victorian Age (surprisingly, not as different as we might think). We see a hero who is determined to act with honor but who struggles to see where that honor will lie. He is the spouse everyone must want — someone who loves his partner as is, not to fix, mend or otherwise improve, but to support. It is a really moving love story, one in which the characters are not at odds, don’t have silly misunderstandings and act with good sense even as they struggle to find their way. It is testament to her skill as a writer that she resolves the love story with no betrayal or bitterness. This is a story that will stay with you, and be read again. (I received an ARC from NetGalley. Opinions mine.)
Fair as a Star by Mimi Matthews is an excellent historical fiction romance that was stunning from beginning to end.
Set in the the 1860s countryside England, we are introduced to many characters within a small, local village. Here we get to experience the very awkward and difficult dilemma between brothers Henry and Mark and a woman that both are interested in: beautiful,complicated, and golden Beryl, albeit for different reasons. All have their own difficulties and secrets that they are each grappling with, and it all comes to a head, and yet also a beautifully satisfying resolution and conclusion by the end.
Getting to experience the alternating thoughts of Mark and Beryl, the reader feels as if they are actually there amongst the blossoms and the summertime breeze of the village. The author created such beautiful visions of landscapes, and also brought forth such forces of emotions that at times rendered me nervous, excited, saddened, but ultimately happy. I loved the growth of the characters involved, and I loved Mark and Beryl, faults and all.
Such a beautiful and heartwarming story about love, sacrifice, faith, loss, acceptance, forgiveness, duty, loyalty, and also mental illness.
Such a wonderful book.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Perfectly Proper Press for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
This is my first book that I have had the privilege to read by this author, and it has made me most certainly a huge fan!
A gentle, quiet take on “melancholia” in the period
. This book takes place in Somerset England 1864. Its a well written novella concerning melancholy during a time that it was considered such a stigma and was very misunderstood. The characters in this compelling and heartwarming story are well developed. This is a good read and recommend this author.
I’m so glad I read this book! It’s unique, tender, and necessary. To say a story is necessary is a strong statement, but Fair as a Star IS necessary. The author tackles a subject rarely discussed in fiction, and she does so with pitch-perfect words and carefully layered emotions that resonated off the page. So well done! I loved Beryl and Mark and their friendship, and how the author weaves hope amidst the brokenness life often hands our way.
If you enjoy historical romance with depth, grace, and sigh-worthy romance, anything Mimi Matthews writes will do. But this one is especially memorable and…necessary.
A little gem of a book. I definitely shipped Beryl and Mark. I loved the symbolism behind her name.
High Victorian times and its rigid codes of behavior are the backdrop for a haunting story of unhappiness whose basis is today recognized as depression. The heroine suffers as much from her society’s lack of understanding as she does from frustration with the plan for her future with a stern and unyielding fiance. It’s obvious she should be with his brother, the sympathetic young man hiding his desperate love for her. How do they work it out? Happily, in the end.
A lovely, well done story. Reading excerpts of the start of the story I at first was leery of reading this upon its release. I feared it might be too dark for me. Well, that was not the case. While the background of melancholy (and the threat of institutionalization existing at the time) certainly prevented this from being a light-hearted read, it is a thoughtful story wherein soulmates do indeed overcome the odds to reach a happy end.
My Rating: 4.5*
I love the beautiful simplicity of Ms. Matthews prose. There is a gentle fierceness that is so elegantly and eloquently conveyed. And in this novella, she brings to light how melancholia (depression) was dealt with in Victorian times.
Fortunately, Miss Beryl Burnham has family that truly love her but may not completely understand her. She also has a very good friend in the local curate, Mark Rivendall. The only one who truly sees her and is willing to listen and help. But Beryl is engaged to his brother, Henry, who is too busy handling estate issues and likes everything done on his terms.
“You’ve taken my problem very much to heart.” (quote from the book)
Despite the seriousness of the issue, there are some wonderful characters within this story, especially Ernest! They each have their flaws, but you come to care for them, and I look forward to reading more about them…for this is only Book 1 in the Victorian Romantics…at least I hope so!
Mimi Matthews truly has a gift of painting pictures and emotions with words. The interactions and dialogues of the characters are believable, as well. Also, (I won’t spoil it, but) the main character deals with an issue that is hardly ever portrayed accurately in historical fiction. It is presented in a respectful and interesting way. I definitely recommend this book.