Tartly elegant. . . . A vigorous, sparkling, and entertaining love story with plenty of Austen-ite wit.” -Kirkus Reviews, STARRED review“Matthews ups the ante with a wildly suspenseful romance…” -Library Journal, STARRED review“This page-turner shouldn’t be missed.” -Publishers Weekly, STARRED review“Readers who love lots of intrigue and historicals that sound properly historical will savor … of intrigue and historicals that sound properly historical will savor this one.” -NPR
She Couldn’t Forget…
Wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was always meant to marry her neighbor, Frederick Burton-Smythe, but it’s bastard-born Nicholas Seaton who has her heart. Raised alongside her on her father’s estate, Nicholas is the rumored son of notorious highwayman Gentleman Jim. When Fred frames him for theft, Nicholas escapes into the night, vowing to find his legendary sire. But Nicholas never returns. A decade later, he’s long been presumed dead.
He Wouldn’t Forgive…
After years spent on the continent, John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has finally come home to England. Tall, blond, and dangerous, he’s on a mission to restore his family’s honor. If he can mete out a bit of revenge along the way, so much the better. But he hasn’t reckoned for Maggie Honeywell. She’s bold and beautiful–and entirely convinced he’s someone else.
As danger closes in, St. Clare is torn between love and vengeance. Will he sacrifice one to gain other? Or, with a little daring, will he find a way to have them both?
more
Book started with a lot of promise but the main hero dissolved from a strong focused character to a weak one whose problems were solved more by his love interest than by his efforts. No real depth to the story or the characters.
Gentleman Jim is one of the most fun books I’ve read in quite a while. It is romantic with twists and turns throughout the story. I cannot recommend it more highly.
Totally loved this story it had you questioning who Gentleman Jim really was and if St. Clare was legitimate or not to the very end. The story with Maggie & St. Claire is so dynamic with all the other characters. Maggie’s a women who was raised to be as good as any other man and it causes her to get into some mischeif.
Reccommended read to anyone who likes a writer who walks the line with out giving too much detail.
I received a free Copy from Netgalley and this review is my own opinion.
Mimi Matthews ventures into the Regency era rather than her usual Victorian with this romance, but as usual, the book is filled with period details and characters that are easy to root for. The overall plot is modeled after one of my favorite books as a teenager, The Count of Monte Cristo, a book that is rarely the inspiration for a romance but which is used to good effect here. I loved Maggie, a heroine who is physically weak due to a bad case of influenza, but whose mind and spirit are strong. She’s determined to seize as much happiness as she can in spite of the way her deceased father tried to use her love for her estate to tie her into the marriage he desired for her with the obnoxious, bully who is heir of the neighboring estate. She also doesn’t hesitate to come right out and confront Viscount St, Clare with her suspicions of his “real” identity, that of her long-lost love, Nicholas. I’m not going into spoiler territory, I’ll just say that her hero is definitely worthy of her love. The author even had a brief highwayman scene just to get a few extra Regency trope points. After all, Nicholas” father was rumored to be a famous highwayman, so the scene made perfect sense. It was also refreshing to read a standalone romance for once. Instead of dealing with sequel bait in the form of Maggie’s best friend, she was given a resolution to her own romance in the epilogue. I would recommend this romance to anyone who enjoys historicals. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Is there anything more satisfying than reading a gripping novel from start to finish is one sitting?! I absolutely loved being able to binge read Gentleman Jim and felt totally immersed in the story. I loved the depth of friendship in Nicholas and Maggie’s youth, and they practically jumped off the page. They both changed drastically over time, but their core personalities are the same, allowing them to reignite that connection. The author skillfully reveals the most vulnerable parts of Nicholas that only Maggie can soothe, bringing layers to both characters that make them soulmates. Complex family relationships work to keep them apart, making it seem as though they cannot have a future together without sacrificing everything. I enjoyed the elements of intrigue, revenge, and the plot twists that kept me glued to the page, as well as the passionate romance. One of my favorites of 2020 for sure. Highly recommend!
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Mimi Matthews is the master of Victorian romance and Gentleman Jim is a perfect example. Maggie is a strong, lovable heroin who knows her own heart, regardless of what others try to press upon her. I love the backstory of Maggie and Nicholas and how their love surpasses all obstacles. I enjoyed the transformation of Viscount St. Clare and the way all the loose ends came together. The passion is tampered, but palpable, and thoroughly enjoyable. This story leaves you feeling warm and satiated from head to toes. You do not want to miss this one by Mimi Matthews.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own, freely given.
Gentleman Jim is a story that pulled me in right away and held my attention to the end. I am reminded once again why I used to read so many Regency novels with the fashion, rules, balls, and aristocracy gossip. It begins in Somerset, England, where Maggie Honeywell and her best friend growing up was Nicholas Seaton, the son of a maid on her family’s estate, are picked on by Frederick Burton-Smythe of the neighboring estate, a fellow who is a bully, mean spirited, and jealous of their relationship. Nicholas finally left the area at age eighteen to get away from Fred.
Ten years later, Maggie’s father left the control of Maggie and her estate in the hands of Fred after his death. She will have to marry Fred or forfeit her beloved estate. While in London visiting a friend, Maggie tries to stop a duel between Fred and an unknown Viscount St. Clare, not knowing what will happen to her if Fred is killed. St. Clare is a known to the Ton as a dark, dangerous fellow who grew up on the Continent, but he looks very familiar to Maggie. Could it be her old friend? He denies it but he and Fred do dislike each other. This an engrossing story with love, jealousy, revenge, secrets to unravel, and answers to find with realistic characters you will love/like and some to dislike. I highly recommend this one if you like to read historical fiction and especially Regencies.
I received a complimentary ARC from Perfectly Proper Press through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
(4.5 stars) – A Count of Monte Cristo flavored tale!
Nicholas & Maggie are childhood best friends who love each other dearly. But Maggie is the daughter of the estate owner, while Nicholas is the bastard child of a tavern wench who works as a lowly stable hand. A jealous boy, Fred, from the neighboring estate sets Nicholas up for theft, & Maggie has to help him escape. Nicholas promises to come back to her someday.
Ten years later, Maggie has gone thru several very difficult hardships & finds herself under the oversight of the still repulsive Fred, who her father was pushing her to marry.
She meets the Viscount St Clare who bears a strong resemblance to Nicholas and becomes convinced that it’s him – but is it him or is it wishful thinking?
The story is thoroughly engaging, and keeps you eagerly reading to the end. There was perhaps a bit of repetitiveness, but nothing that actually felt off-putting or laggy, and the dialogue is frequently entertaining.
The ending is overly pat & fairytale-ish, but it’s allayed by the teasing little bit of open-ended uncertainty the author leaves at the end which I found extremely amusing.
*Romance level: passionate kisses; talk of a woman prostitute, a man tries to forcefully kiss a woman & tears her sleeve, but there is nothing graphic
With her typical skill and creativity, Mimi Matthews has penned another riveting and entertaining tale with her new book, Gentleman Jim. Set in Regency England and full of colorful, layered characters that come alive on the page, this story kept me guessing and turning pages to the end.
The two main characters are superb. Maggie Honeywell is a spunky, courageous, and loyal heroine. I was immediately drawn to her audacious personality. Viscount St. Clare is a bold, courageous hero who is determined to restore his family’s honor and maybe get a little revenge along the way. The villain, Frederick Burton-Smythe, made me want to boo and hiss every time he made an appearance.
Packed with adventure, intrigue, suspense, heart-pounding romance, and with some humor and witty banter thrown in for good measure, this tale is sure to please those who enjoy captivating Regency stories. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own.
Gentleman Jim by Mimi Matthews
Need a feel good happy making romance to make you smile? If so, this very well could be the book for you! I was definitely in the mood for a story that was easy to read and filled with an eventual happily ever after for soulmates that almost didn’t get their shot at happiness!
What I liked:
* Nicholas Seaton: a young man working as a stableboy, seemingly unloved by his mother, abused too often, in love with Margaret “Maggie” Honeywell. He ran for his life and in the time away grew and changed.
* Maggie Honeywell: a feisty, honorable, kind young woman raised by her father – the soulmate of Nick.
* John Beresford/St. Clare: strong, imposing, dead-shot, skilled, icy, heir to much – falls for Maggie quickly
* Jane & Mattingly: great friends to Maggie & St. Clare and perfect for one another
* Enzo: interesting character employed by St. Clare – could have a book of his own when he is older
* St. Clare’s grandfather: wily old goat who knows what he wants and has a plan to get it
* The story, way it was written and the way it made me happy while reading.
What I didn’t like:
* Fred Burton-Smythe: a bully all of his life
* Lionel Beresford and his mother: easy to hate
* The childhood Nicholas endured
Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more by this author? Definitely
Thank you to NetGalley and Perfectly Proper Press for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars
A thoroughly captivating romance!
Wow, what a gem! This story has everything — scandal, betrayals, secrets galore! I loved the well-developed storyline, and the connection Maggie has with her beau was solid from the start. It’s hard to discuss the characters without giving away the main spoiler, but rest assured that Maggie does get her HEA, which is followed by a years-later epilogue that was truly heartwarming.
The exquisite attention to detail and wonderfully insightful writing style made this an easy story to get lost in. The wide assortment of characters just come to life on the page and I was instantly absorbed in this delightful world. I highly recommend this story for all Regency romance fans. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Oh this was a good book. There were a few times I had to read ahead because I just had to know what was going to happen. I loved Maggie’s character. She was so strong and determined. I also loved her friend Jane and her aunt. She was funny. Jane was a good friend and support to Maggie. There were a few villains in this story that were very well written. I didn’t like any of them from the beginning. This was a great mystery and romance and I really enjoyed it.
1807 Bastard son of Gentleman Jim, Nicholas Seaton, a groom on Beasley Park, owned by Squire Honeywell, has been wrongly accused of theft, by Frederick Burton-Smythe. Friend and lady, Maggie Honeywell helps him to escape. Between these two is a young frustrated love, they feel only complete with each other.
But after ten years apart is it time Maggie married as her father’s will instructed. But after the death of her father she visits friend Jane Trumble, in town, where events conspire for her to meet John Beresford, the Viscount St. Clare and heir to the Earl of Allendale.
Can secrets be uncovered, what family mysteries are there to be solved.
A delightful well-written Victorian romance with its hint of mystery. It is wonderful to read a story where the author can write conversations that read so true, and have such well-developed characters.
I greatly enjoyed this Regency romance novel by Mimi Matthews! I loved the characters and I really liked how they knew each other from childhood—it made their relationship even deeper and more believable. I particularly loved St. Clare and his courageous, romantic self. The growth of the characters was very well done. I was drawn into the book from the very first chapter and the novel kept my attention until the last page! I liked the mystery woven among the historical details of the Regency era. The ending was surprising but satisfying. I really enjoyed this novel and look forward to more by this author!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Perfectly Proper Press, courtesy of Austen Prose Tours with Laurel Ann Nattress. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Gentleman Jim
Mimi Matthews
https://www.facebook.com/MimiMatthewsAuthor/
Release date 11/10/2020
Publisher Perfectly Proper Press
She Couldn’t Forget…
Wealthy squire’s daughter Margaret Honeywell was always meant to marry her neighbor, Frederick Burton-Smythe, but it’s bastard-born Nicholas Seaton who has her heart. Raised alongside her on her father’s estate, Nicholas is the rumored son of notorious highwayman Gentleman Jim. When Fred frames him for theft, Nicholas escapes into the night, vowing to find his legendary sire. But Nicholas never returns. A decade later, he’s long been presumed dead.
He Wouldn’t Forgive…
After years spent on the continent, John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare has finally come home to England. Tall, blond, and dangerous, he’s on a mission to restore his family’s honor. If he can mete out a bit of revenge along the way, so much the better. But he hasn’t reckoned for Maggie Honeywell. She’s bold and beautiful–and entirely convinced he’s someone else.
As danger closes in, St. Clare is torn between love and vengeance. Will he sacrifice one to gain other? Or, with a little daring, will he find a way to have them both?
Will vengeance sooth his soul while letting go of his only love …
A wonderful tale with a dash of The Count of Monte-Cristo about a man on his way for his revenge under a new identity and persona while facing a woman from his past.
« All human wisdom is contained in these two words – Wait and Hope »
ℎ
Nicholas was cheated and betrayed because he loved a woman an other coveted.
From this sole crime, he would have been hanged. Why he HS to run away, leaving behind the only person who loved him and ever loved.
Upon his return, he never expected to cross path again with her. She had been his past, but can’t be his future.
Thus he thought.
But Nicolas is not dead, he is just deeply buried, until the light of his dream comes crashing in his life again. Slowly she unravels the man he was prior to his flight.
Up to him to determine what is worth, revenge or love, to weight the cost and price of each.
My heart was breaking for Margaret, she had been robbed of nearly everything her soulmate, her land, her health still she hold on a promise she had been made a decade ago, her glimmer in the darken surrounding her and slowly closing in on herself.
But this light is flickering, ten years has now passed, and she has very time left before she must forfeit her freedom.
I just loved her, she is feisty and spirited, what she lacks in endurance, she makes in temper. She never gives up and goes for what she knows is right.
It is what I love the most with Mrs Matthews, she brings to life awesome heroines, not perfect but going for what they believe in, always refusing to cower.
Margaret’s friend, Jane, while only secondary in the plot, is also another example of the strong women the author paints, she is bold, blunt, exuberant and one to support instead of mothering.
« Woman is sacred; the woman one loves is holy »
ℎ
In a note, the author explains she get inspired for this story by two tales, yet don’t ask me why but the scene when St Clare acknowledge his identity, I saw Tootsie. Without the dress of course. But the drama of taking ownership of his true self. It was as sensational, especially with the epic brawl following it.
Each new tale by Mrs Matthews is a new precious stone in the grand jewel she is drawing with her pen and ink.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Perfectly Proper Press, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272830/posts/738847243371116/?d=n
Gentleman Jim by Mimi Matthews is a thoroughly romantic story that hooked my attention from the beginning. I did not want to put it down as I journeyed with Maggie through the loss of her childhood friend and her growing relationship with John. Aside from the romance, the story boasts plenty of adventure, moments of danger, and just the right amount of drama.
Gentleman Jim by Mimi Matthews stayed with me long after I finished it. If I had time, I would read it again right now. Though it is general fiction, the romance is tasteful, and the occasional language is mild. 4.5 Stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
Mimi Matthews gives us an engaging Regency tale filled with romance and an intriguing mystery surrounding the identity of the dashing John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare. Maggie Honeywell, a lovely, rather frail young woman, spends ten years of her life wondering what happened to her best friend, a young man named Nicholas Seaton who is the illegitimate son of one of the maids. Just as she resigns herself to marrying her unpleasant guardian, the son from a neighboring estate, she accidentally meets John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, who bears a startling resemblance to Nicholas. As Maggie tries to uncover the mysterious identity of St. Clare, she finds herself in precarious circumstances more than once trying to unravel the clues. Could a scruffy, fun loving stable boy turn into an educated, well-mannered aristocrat? An intriguing little romance that ends in an absolutely delightful way!
This ARC copy was received from Perfectly Proper Press and Netgalley.com. The above thoughts and opinions are wholly my own.
#GentlemanJim #NetGalley
Mimi Matthews has done it again! This book was engrossing from the start and I love how she kept the reader guessing about the identity of one of the main characters. The romance between the hero and heroine was so passionate, though still clean. This book had some slight language and had one rather sensuous scene but nothing that would make it anything less than a clean read, just something to be aware of for those that are sensitive to that sort of thing. If you haven’t read a Mimi Matthews book yet, start now! She just keeps getting better and better.
This is a fabulous historical novel that captures the romance of Jane Austen and the adventure and intrigue of Count of Monte Cristo. This prolific author once again swept me off my feet with her storytelling and plopped me back in time to meet a delightful cast of characters. For an avid fan of history this book was a veritable treat. Never once while reading the book could I guess how the author would resolve the obstacles in the hero and heroine’s path.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. This review is my honest opinion.
“Gentleman Jim”, from author Mimi Matthews, is a truly romantic story of love, longing, and loyalty. Set in Regency-Era England, this is the emotional tale of young sweethearts separated by the class system, long-simmering revenge, and a decade of heartbreak. Margaret “Maggie” Honeywell is the spirited daughter of a wealthy land owner. Expected to marry the son of landed gentry, Maggie’s heart instead belongs to Nicholas Seaton, whose mother is a servant and whose father may be the infamous highway bandit, “Gentleman Jim”. When Nicholas is unjustly accused of theft, Maggie helps him to escape, and he promises to come back for her one day. After ten years, with no word from Nicholas, Maggie has had much sadness to deal with, including her own serious illness. Her hopes and her heart are stirred with the arrival of John Beresford, Viscount St. Clare, a man of mystery with an agenda all his own. Maggie knows his eyes, and even though he would deny it, her very soul knows who he really is–but where has he been, and why did he not contact her? Will the power of a deep and true love be greater than a long-held need for retribution? Can secrets be uncovered and truths revealed to offer the chance for a future filled with happiness? Author Mimi Matthews has written a wonderful historical romance which brought me full circle back to the kind of love stories which enchanted me as a young reader moving forward into a new level of reading. Highly recommended.
Book Copy Gratis Author