Lady Elizabeth Davenport is desperate. Her hand in marriage has been offered to the highest bidder, a distressing proposition in and of itself but made all the more repulsive when she meets her father’s first choice for her hand: Lord Pinweather. When her parents refuse to hear her pleas, Liz is forced to take drastic measures—she will impersonate her maid and begin anew in America on her own … terms.
Once on board the ship to America, another passenger, Lord Barton, almost immediately discovers her true status as a noble. After listening to Liz’s highly modified version of her life and her plans to begin again, Barton has compassion on her and teaches her how to abandon her noble mannerisms. Upon disembarking, however, Barton’s generous spirit quickly dampens when he discovers Liz has indeed found work—as his own head housekeeper. Suddenly, the tender feelings they hid from each other on the ship are inescapable, but their difference in station makes romance impossible. As misunderstandings abound and a shocking character from Liz’s past looms, she knows she can’t hide her true identity forever. But as her deception begins to unravel, will her charade cost her the man she loves?
more
I like that this author is never afraid to discuss historic events and issues that are not incredibly popular. His Lady in Hiding is no different, though not quite as prominent as in some of her other books. I really enjoyed this story. I liked that it took place in both England and America. Philadelphia is not usually the scene for historic novels, so I really enjoyed getting to know more about old Philadelphia and the wonderful Mr. Allen. Liz and Anthony’s meet cute was quite irregular and funny. I enjoyed their complicated relationship and felt for them at times. I was really proud of Liz and who she became. Anthony was also wonderful. I wouldn’t mind hearing more about these two as I had a few questions, but I enjoyed their tale and HEA.
5+ stars.
Jude s books.
5.0 out of 5 stars His lady in hiding…is found.
Jen, this book is one of my favorites.
Jens books are not only a Story of historical
romance.
They are a well researched history lesson, on the age of women, fighting for a place as an equal in society.
For the right to make choices, about their own lives
The story and the characters developed and flowed so very easily.
There was so many twists, I did not expect, which just added to a delightful book.
Please read the authors introduction for more details on the book.
I would hate to spoil the read, by saying to much.
I would recommend this book to you.
It really is a very good clean read.
I was so captivated by His Lady in Hiding, by Jen Geigle Johnson. When I was almost halfway through the book I foolishly stopped to go to sleep. Every time I woke up my mind went to the book and what would happen next. It drew me in completely. Courage, inner strength, bravery, and goodness. These words describe the character of Lady Elizabeth well. She and each of the characters are so well-written. I loved the ending of this book. There were so many twists, so much change and unexpected occurrences. The love story was so sweet and enduring. Truly beautiful. I highly recommend it.
This story was quite the adventure! There were more plot twists and turns than I was expecting. Thankfully, there was a happily ever after waiting at the end! Although I was also surprised that His Lady in Hiding had less true historical connections than some of Jen Geigle Johnson’s other historical fiction novels did, the story had plenty of substance without them. She was consistent in pointing out social challenges of the day and her characters become advocates for bettering the world around them. Very creative plotline, funny situations and banter, and characters with depth of perception and intention.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
One of my new favorites from Jen Geigle Johnson. This story made me very sad at times. I’m happy with the ending as a HEA of sorts came about but with the circumstances a full HEA is hard to come by. There are a few things that I wish were explained a bit more but to not spoil surprises of the book I won’t discuss those. Just know this was an entertaining tale. I loved the characters of Liz otherwise known as Heidi. She made a few decisions that I was surprised by but over all she was great. I think it was difficult not to fall for Anthony but his wonderful and loving character sometimes failed him when he couldn’t see past some of his own opinions.
This is the Regency equivalent of a romantic-comedy, and another winner for Jen Geigle Johnson. Lady Elizabeth Davenport is being given in marriage to the repugnant Lord Pinweather against her wishes, but what can she do to avoid being forced to marry the repulsive man? Elizabeth (Liz) comes up with a plan–pretend to be a commoner and get a job as a housekeeper in America! So Lady Elizabeth becomes Heidi Worthing and boards a ship to Philadelphia. She’s only on board a few days when she gets herself in trouble–adrift in a jolly boat in the ocean during a storm. Lucky for her Lord Anthony Barton is on the deck when the storm sends the small craft out to sea. What a memorable meeting they’ll have to tell their children and grandchildren.
Liz (aka Heidi) and Lord Barton are both surprised to find that she’s his new housekeeper. He knows she’s not a commoner and doesn’t know anything about being housekeeper, because they became friends on the ship. This sets the stage for many comical instances, my favorite is rug-beating day. Liz is used to speaking her mind which leads her into various situations because she doesn’t think of what the consequences might be. Lord Barton couldn’t help but care about Liz/Heidi/Miss Hastings. I think my favorite thing he did was throw Lord Pinweather’s men off her trail when he disguised the maid.
I can’t believe it’s been less than two years since I discovered this author, as she’s quickly become one of my favorites. She’s also one of those authors who weaves some actual history into her stories. I think readers will thoroughly enjoy Liz and Anthony’s story.
Lady Elizabeth or “Heidi” was the best part of this book. She was brave, overcame her upbringing to do what needed doing and found a better way in life. Her character changed a great deal over the course of the book. I loved that she was willing to accept people who others looked down on and in the end her kindness saved her as those she befriended desired to help her. I would have loved Lord Barton but his indecisiveness marred my admiration of him. At least he is able to own up to his faults in the end. And he is a good person. Lord Barton’s staff was great. Their loyalty admirable.
I felt like we spent too much time in parts of the book and not enough in other parts. So many holes in what was going on especially at the end. We jumped weeks ahead from chapter to chapter. I suppose we didn’t need to know everything. We just needed to see how the romance turned out but I wanted to know more about Lady Sariah and what happened with the trial. And to where a certain person disappeared. None of which had much to do with the romance part.
Sex: innuendo
Language: no
Violence: threatening situations
*I received a complimentary ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
I like historical romances. But I really like them when they include a bit of humor and they aren’t at all stuffy. This book by Jen Geigle Johnson has so many good things going for it. I didn’t want to put it down!
Liz might have been my very favorite thing about this whole book! I loved the way she was spunky and did things without thinking about the consequences. This gets her into so much trouble, so many times. And it made me laugh every time. I loved how she ended up in the middle of the ocean in a little life raft all by herself, with no thought of how to get out.
Luckily, Lord Barton realized that she was out there. He becomes her hero in this book. And he has to save her so many times, it was comical. I loved the way he was almost always there for Liz. And when he wasn’t, things just weren’t right for her.
I loved the whole feeling of this one! It’s my favorite book that I’ve read lately.
I was sent a copy of His Lady in Hiding as a gift from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Another winner from Jen Geigle Johnson. Highlighting the issues of the time such as slavery and injustice, lack of rights for women, and social class differences, Jen weaves a tale that gives the reader empathy and information. This book is beautifully written as it highlights those relevant social issues with consideration and is masterfully done.
The romance is gradually developed in a natural way and you feel that you are right there with them. The characters are full and developed, even minor characters that I would love to learn more about and I hope we do.
One of the things that I particularly like about Johnson’s writing style is her ability to develop the story and have natural issues rather than contrived problems because someone refuses to tell the other person their “secret” and the big reveal causes more problems. Her characters are honestly done and if there is a secret, there is a reason and it is dealt with reasonably.
Her stories feel like they could be about real people dealing with real issues. I will read every one of them I can get my hands on.
I was given an ARC of this book for review by the publisher.
What a delightful read! It is a clean historical romance, but so much more. I enjoyed that it was not the typical regency romance. I loved that it took place in England and America. Liz was in dire straits! What could she do but run. And who wouldn’t fall for the man that recused her. This book contains betrayal from her father, adventures on the high seas, learning the life of the under privileged, and of course love. The characters were woven together superbly! The drama, suspense, intrigue, plus the fun, witty, lightheartedness, made for a perfect story!! I definitely would recommend this book, it had a little bit of everything, that a good regency romance should have!
Fantastic story! All responsibilities were tossed to the wayside as I was sucked in from the first page. Lord Barton and Liz are some of my favorite characters. This is a must read for historical romance fans!
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists,
and/or authors, including Netgalley. I am not required to write positive
reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this
in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I received an advance copy of this book by the author Jen Geigle Johnson. The following if my honest review of the book:
His Lady in Hiding is a clever read in my opinion. I loved every moment of this book. I loved learning about the different historical aspects of this time and place. I love how she can entertain us with a great story while sharing so great historical facts. But what I love most about this book are the characters. Each of them were developed so well to the point the felt like real people to me. Lord Barton in particular was one where I wanted to fawn over and the next moment wanted to slap him for his foolish thoughts.
I loved her other books, but I really loved this one. This may be my favorite books by her. I really recommend this book to all romance and history lovers out there. Don’t pass up this read.
His Lady in Hiding by Jen Geigle Johnson rates as a clean romance with a lovely strain of romantic tension that made me reluctant to put it down. I rooted for Liz and Lord Barton to get together as the obstacles to their relationship kept arising. Though there was limited character development, the story held my attention from beginning to end. I especially liked seeing the way the household (and later the community) rallied together to protect and care for Liz. The novel briefly touched on themes of advocating for others and loving one’s neighbor, but the spiritual content is pretty light.
His Lady in Hiding by Jen Geigle Johnson is a stand-alone novel that will appeal to readers looking for a clean romance with faith-based themes lightly woven in. 4.5 Stars!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this ebook by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
This story was masterfully told by Johnson and my favorite I have read by her! Lady Elizabeth is a force to be reckoned with and her courage and spirit made this book unforgettable! I loved her pluck in defying her father’s wishes and going into disguise as a housekeeper. She sails across the ocean by herself in steerage and during her journey meets Lord Barton. With a twist of fate she ends up employed as his housekeeper! Nothing would get her down or stop her and what I loved most about this story is that Johnson did not just write a typical regency story. She kept me guessing and wondering while weaving in elements of freeing slaves and women’s rights. This book rocks and I hope you pick up a copy and read it! It is worth every minute of your time! I received a copy of this book for free, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lady Liz Davenport refuses to submit to a repulsive fiancé forced on her by her father and finds adventure and love on the run. She pretends to be as servant in order to conceal her identity and finds a friend in Lord Barton who is not fooled by her act and pledges his help.
This is one of the most fun regency romances I have ever read – there are so many hilarious moments! I loved that Liz discovers a strength of character she didn’t know she possessed as she struggles in a situation different than what she is accustomed to. I enjoyed watching Lord Barton and Liz fall for each other as their friendship and respect for each other grows into something more. Their journey to find love – and the freedom to be with each other – takes them on a regency adventure you don’t want to miss!
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest review.
I thought it was fun to see how Liz had to learn how to be a housekeeper, although I had a little bit of a hard time believing that someone as young as her would be hired as a housekeeper in the first place. I got frustrated with Barton because I didn’t feel like he stood up for Liz enough. I also thought some of the details seemed a little off–like, after someone dies (I won’t say who), there’s not really any mention of being in mourning and the funeral seemed to take place later than would be possible in an era without embalming practices. All in all, this was a fun, clean read.
I read an ARC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.
I can’t begin to put into words how much I loved this book.
In an act of desperation Lady Elizabeth Davenport runs away from home to be a servant in America. Lord Anthony Barton the second son of a Marquees is sailing away to America to create his own shipping business and find his own fortune.
After an unusual series of circumstances Lord Barton and Lady Elizabeth develop a close friendship while traveling. But as soon as they disembark their circumstances change dramatically and their friendship becomes strained and Lady Elizabeth makes some unlikely friends and alliances that help her along the way.
The path that each Lord Barton and Lady Elizabeth take will lead them on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and feelings, that will make the book hard to put down.
As I neared the end of the book I kept thinking what else could happen in this story only to find more twists and turns until the end.
The character development is amazing!
Lady Elizabeth Davenport and Lord Anthony Barton each learn and grow though their different challenges and status’ in their life.
Jen Geigle Johnson has created another beautiful romance with great historical references. It creates a depth to the story that is hard to find in regular romances.
I was given access to an advanced reader’s copy, all opinions are my own.
His Lady in Hiding is a regency adventure about what a woman will do to escape her repulsive future, ultimately uncovering secrets about her past. The most fun and refreshing thing about this story is that it doesn’t take place in London society, but rather a sea voyage to the colonies in America. I always tend to like forbidden romances and this is definitely that. Two people who find themselves thrown together by literal turbulence and then find themselves falling for each other day by day with little measure of power to do anything about it.
I liked Liz’s spirit and her determination to measure up to the duties equal to a great housekeeper despite her lack of experience and the proximity it gives her to Lord Barton. Her indomitable will drives the book, always seeming to know what she wants. The only things I was a little bugged about was that Barton seemed to drag his feet on his stance in their relationship and I just wanted him to show a little more bravery and loyalty in declaring his feelings and attentions to her. Such a fun way to present a romance with a definite clashing of both wit and wills!
Besides the cover being so beautiful this was a beautifully written romance! I have been looking forward to reading this book since I read an excerpt last year at the end of “A Lady’s Maid”. I loved the main characters and watching them develop into how they became by the end of the book. I loved how brave Elizabeth was to be willing to give up her life of leisure to become a servant in order to get out of a terrible situation. I also loved how she found purpose in working and wanted to help other people. I loved how Anthony was so kind hearted in helping this woman who had no idea how to be a servant to learn what she needed to know. I also loved how they had to figure out how to let their romance develop because of all the twist and turns they had. Really a lovely story and I look forward to reading it again.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
This book is full of twist and turns. Just when you think you’ve possibly found the happy ending and even expect it to happen, you are thrown for a loop and taken a different direction. I loved the development of the characters. They were fantastic! Liz just wants to find her way and not be forced into a loveless marriage with a horrible man. Desperate to get away, she makes a hasty decision, applies to be a housekeeper in America, and takes a boat, where she meets a handsome gentleman, who agrees to help her with becoming a housekeeper. Lord Barton just wants to be his own man and sails to America to start a shipping business. Their connection on the boat, will take them on a wild ride.