“Matthews weaves suspense and mystery within an absorbing love story. Readers will be hard put to set this one down before the end.” -Library Journal, starred reviewWinner of the 2020 HOLT MedallionAn Uncommon Beauty… London, her oddity has made her a sensation. Far worse, it’s caught the eye of the sinister Duke of Moreland—a notorious art collector obsessed with acquiring one-of-a-kind treasures. To escape the duke’s clutches, she’s going to need a little help.
An Unlikely Hero…
Captain Arthur Heywood’s days of heroism are long past. Grievously injured in the Peninsular War, he can no longer walk unaided, let alone shoot a pistol. What use can he possibly be to a damsel in distress? He has nothing left to offer except his good name.
Can a marriage of convenience save Philly from the vengeful duke? Or will life with Arthur put her—and her heart—in more danger than ever?
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This is a great marriage of convenience novels. Mimi Matthews writes regency romances for the mainstream market, so there’s no inspy content, but they are clean romances, and I simply adored The Work of Art. Tortured hero, wonderfully kind heroine, and oh yes…..that marriage of convenience that quickly becomes much more. Oh, and I have massive cover envy!
Another winner by Matthew. I loved the story and how Arthur and Phyl got to be such good friends as well as falling in love with each other. And I loved how good they were for and to each other. I especially appreciated that the typical romantic misunderstandings were worked through and confronted quickly. There was a nice mystery to be solved with a clever twist at the end.
Alex Wyndham did a wonderful job with the narration again.
I am a voracious reader of historical romance. I believe Mary Balogh, Grace Burrowes and Lisa Kleypas are the queens of this genre. And now Mimi Matthews has joined that exalted group. Her beautiful novels draw me right in and I can’t get anything done until I’m finished reading. This book is particularly engaging and so, so romantic!
Phyllida Satterthwaite and her four beloved dogs now live in London with her stern uncle, hateful aunt and irritating cousins after the death of her grandfather. She has different colored eyes, which draw much attention. When her uncle has potential business partners at the home, she meets Captain Arthur Heyward, a former cavalry officer who was grievously injured in the war; he cannot walk without a cane and suffers severe pain. Philly really clicked with the gruff, unsmiling Arthur and they become friends. She didn’t look at him with pity, and when she thought he needed help or was in pain, she helped him without being obvious and drawing attention to him. Her uncle wishes her to meet a Duke, who is interested in Philly because he believes she is a work of art with her unusual eyes. She didn’t like this Duke at all. However, she finds her uncle has essentially sold her to him and demands she marry him. Frightened of the rumors about the Duke, she leaves her home with Arthur; he decides the only way he can protect her is to give her his name.
The relationship between Philly and Arthur was just beautiful! They started as friends, with the intention that their marriage would be in name only. That was not to be; a quiet romance built quickly between them. Philly was a sweet, caring woman with a big heart, evidenced by the care she gave her wayward pets…and Arthur. Arthur still suffered from his pain and injuries, feeling frustrated that he couldn’t do the things he used to do. When it appeared that someone was trying to hurt Philly, he would do everything he could to protect her. Though intimacies were behind closed doors, the story was still very sensual and the love palpable. I can’t express just how much this book touched me. Ms. Matthews can’t write fast enough for me.
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 are entirely my own.
The Work of Art by Mimi Matthews is an incredible story. I fell in love with the characters from the start. Captain Arthur Heywood is a wounded warrior returned home from the war with Napoleon. He is a man with hidden inner pain as well as an injured leg. “He was much taller than the other gentlemen, with broad shoulders and a lean, athletic build that seemed at odds with his use of a cane. Whatever had happened to him in the war, he still had the proud, upright carriage of a soldier. His hair was jet black with the barest hint of gray at his temples. His suit of clothes was black as well; unnecessarily austere, as if he were in mourning. But it was his face that caught her notice most of all. It was solemn, almost to the point of harshness, and in it she had the distinct impression of pain.” Phyllida Satterthwaite is naturally drawn to hurting creatures. Once she meets Captain Heywood, she finds in him a true friend who is in need of her compassion.
Phyllida is an uncommon beauty. She has dual colored eyes: one blue and the other amber. She is considered “The Work of Art” by members of the ton. But there is a sinister villain in the story that threatens to sweep away all of Phyllida’s happiness.
I truly found myself captivated by this book. I couldn’t put it down. Matthews is an incredible writer. There are no sex scenes in this book – just some kissing. But the chemistry is very much there without it. I was gifted a copy of this work of art.
I should have known that the moment I started reading The Work of Art, I would not want to do anything else until I finished it.
From the very first page I was swept away to London living my life right along side Philly. Oh how I adored her! She was kind, gentle, always looked for the good in others, was quick to forgive and was the ray of sunshine in everyone’s life. What I loved the most about her was, she didn’t see herself as any special person, nor did she think that she was beautiful. She was just Philly. She was brought up to believe that what’s on the outside does not matter, it’s what’s on the inside that counts the most.
And what’s an amazing heroine without an equally amazing hero? Arthur is not your typical hero. I quickly fell in love with him as well. He was quiet and broody but when it came to Philly he was fierce and protective. He was determined to keep her safe no matter what. There were times when he struggled with whether or not he’d be able to protect her, but when the person you’re in love with is in danger, nothing will hold you back from being who and what they need.
I loved the relationship between Arthur and Philly. There was a connection between them that only grew stronger the more they got to know each other. Watching their relationship grow from friendship into something more was beautiful. These two were absolutely perfect together.
The only thing I felt was missing was an epilogue. There were one or two things that I personally didn’t feel were resolved. But then again, I’m selfish and when I read an amazing book, I never want it to end!
Whenever I read one of Ms. Matthews books I know I’m going to feel all the feels. She is an amazing author and I can’t wait to read more books by her!
Phyllida “Philly” Satterthwaite has been happily living with her grandfather in Devonshire. His death may leave her homeless, but her Uncle Edgar arrives to take her into his London household. Edgar has an ulterior motive – he plans to dangle his uncommonly beautiful niece before the notorious Duke of Moreland, hoping to be able to profit from the situation. Moreland is a cold man, known for his penchant to collect exquisite objects, and rumored to destroy those things he’s unable to acquire. It’s also whispered that he may be responsible for his previous wife’s death. Moreland is quick to take the bait, and soon he and Edgar have come to financial settlement for Philly, neither caring that she’s stated she won’t marry the duke.
Arthur Heywood is the second son of an earl, and a former Captain in the army. He was grievously injured in Spain, and is now forced to walk with a cane, albeit slowly and painfully. He’s spent the last three years in seclusion, in the country at his Somersetshire estate. Arthur never liked being in the city, and his wounds, scars, and nightmares make it even less appealing. Still, at the request of his father, he is discussing a business venture with Edgar, deciding whether it’s worth investing in.
Philly has occasion to encounter Arthur in the park on different occasions, believing their meetings coincidental. Little does she know that Arthur is enchanted with her, something totally untypical for him. It’s not her beauty, which he definitely admires, but her innate kindness to him, and her sensitivity to his injuries that attracts him. As for Philly, she finds it very easy to confide in the quiet man who has captured her fancy, as well. When she confesses that she’s about to be forced to wed the duke, Arthur offers the only solution he can think of – marriage – but, to him rather than the duke. Philly accepts, and the couple weds in secret, and heads off to his country estate.
Arthur had originally promised Philly a “white” marriage, one in name only, but that resolution doesn’t last long. This couple is so perfect together, and for each other that it’s almost breathtaking. Make no mistake, they have problems, but they TALK to each other. Arthur still has nightmares, and he harbors fears that he may unintentionally hurt Philly. Then, several incidents occur, and it’s apparent that someone else is determined to harm Philly. Has the duke decided to enact revenge? How can Arthur protect his love with all his physical limitations? I love this particular passage, when Philly is in extreme danger:
“Arthur!” A wave of unimaginable relief tore through Philly at the sound of Arthur Heywood’s deep voice. She turned, expecting to find her husband standing at the entrance to the clearing. Instead, her eyes fell upon someone else entirely. A man she’d often heard about but never seen. It was undeniably Arthur. But it wasn’t HER Arthur. It wasn’t the husband who kissed her and called her his sweetheart. No. This was a different man. A dangerous man. This was Captain Arthur Heywood. This was the soldier who had crushed a man’s throat with one bare hand.
I’m a great fan of Mimi Matthews’s writing, and I believe this is my favorite of her books, so far. Arthur and Philly are characters I adore, and their love for each other is what makes me read romance novels. They don’t hide or disguise their feelings, and the self proclaimed moody and unpredictable Arthur goes to extreme lengths to protect the wife he cherishes. I was genuinely moved by this warm and extremely well written book. I know I’ll be reading it again in the future and recommend it wholeheartedly.
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-10e
Another beautiful story from Mimi Matthews. If you’re looking for a clean romance with that feel good factor, you can’t go wrong here.
It will be an impossible task to convey the emotions this very book made me feel.
I do not know why Mrs Mimi Matthews’ name clicked right for me as I’m sure it is my first reading of her work.
Whatever, it was such a marvelous read, I lost myself in Philly and Arthur’s tale and cursed my daily cores as they kept me from reading a big part of the day, with I read it late this night and wake up earlier to finish it as my eyes decided to have a will of their own to shut me down.
I found no fault in Mrs Matthews’ protagonists she painted them perfectly, they are not flawless but their imperfections made them more true and alive.
Philly and Arthur were not only brushed as kind and full of care characters, they were given a breadth not often seen in paper heroes. They were multidimensional persons and even if one or two times I disagreed with their courses of actions, I understood them too.
Arthur is a wounded man, soldier’s life left him badly hurt, but his scars are not only physical, they haunt him. He is not an expansive kind of man, he keeps his feelings close to his heart, never showing them while Philly wears her heart on her sleeve and her sensibility on her face.
Despite the short span of time at the beginning, the plot didn’t seem rushed, the events unfolded smoothly and I was drawn to them, their struggles and their decency when facing unsettling situations.
Philly despite her innocence and naivety, is not one to hold a grudge even when betrayed, but she also refuses to surrender and let others decide her fate. She is such a thoughtful person, always helping others in need, also never pitying them, she tries in her own way to improve their issues. And by trying to ease Arthur’s impairments, she breached the walls around his heart. Their mutual support and instant connection during their few encounters built the premises of a solid relationship, which once on the right path evolved its fated way.
Even if there were some unsaid things and uneases, they are such honest persons, they express their thoughts and feelings, they discuss and let no one plays with their sentiments.
It is a complex story with a touch of danger and a love that grows to its right conclusion once the masks have fallen.
Mrs Matthews has crafted a wonderful tale of healing and destined love.
There is no rating to reward a so awesome read.
I was granted an advance copy by the Publisher perfectly Proper Press thanks to Netgalley and also purchased my copy, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
I have greatly enjoyed other books by Mimi Matthews. This is just as fabulous as the others. Excellent. I read into the wee hours of the morning (fortunately on the weekend) as I could not put this down. Wow! Many an author of historical romance could take a lesson or two from Mimi.
I suffered not a moment of boredom, but rather was anxious to read the next page to discover what it contained. Wonderfully written in tone and language, this could be labelled a study in deceit. There is a tension almost throughout – the reader held in suspense to learn how our h and H will get through their trials and tribulations.
Our heroine, Miss Phyllida (Philly) Satterthwaite, is empathetic and kind and so easy to like and root for. Otherwise shy, Philly could readily speak with Captain Arthur Heywood, and he with her. I think we’ve all had similar experiences.
I was suspicious of several characters, wondering if they may be trusted by Philly and Arthur. While I suspected correctly who the villain MIGHT be, I did not expect the reason.
I read an advance copy I received via NetGalley; the thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
Sometimes you find an author whose writing voice is so perfect for their genre, it’s truly magical. This is the case with author Mimi Matthews and her historical romances. The stories she pens are like my favorite drink, an iced chai tea…they’re delicious, sweet with a bit of a bite, and there’s never enough.
The latest I’ve read is The Work of Art, which I gulped down in two (busy) days. I literally couldn’t stop reading. Mimi Matthews’s words are pitch perfect, her characters so likeable and life-like (not perfect, mind you. Just incredibly realistic). The Work of Art had a lovely mystery to it, not to mention the canine adoration throughout. Philly is articulate and loving, while Arthur was an honorable, brooding curmudgeon. Such a great pairing!
I’m so glad I listened to author friends who recommended Mimi Matthews. She’s a gifted author and her romances are tender, intelligent, and so very readable! (FYI, she’s not inspirational HR, but her stories are clean).
This was my second Mimi Matthews book, and it was just as good as the first, and actually more to my taste. I loved the mix of whirlwind romance that was genuine and the danger lurking behind the scenes, all because she was considered a priceless work of art due to Phylidda’s different colored eyes. Like in the last book, there was a bit of steaminess, but I was better prepared for it and it was all within the context of marriage. The door closed firmly on any details, but there was no denying the desire between the two. Honestly, I loved the realism it brought to the marriage with the teasing and flirting that goes on between a husband and a wife. Again, if you are after a very chaste story with nothing more than handholding and pecking on the cheek, this story is not for you.
Captain Arthur makes the perfect wounded hero, who while physically injured and uninterested in marriage, turns out to be the perfect hero with morals that drive him to make decisions that oppose the opinion of others. I’ve always loved a hero who can stand their ground. When standing his ground leads to a marriage of convenience, it becomes all the sweeter. I truly loved the interactions between him and Phylidda and the whirlwind–yet solid–romance that carried them through many challenges. The mystery and danger that followed them continued to drive the story forward and me turning the pages.
I recommend this story for anyone who likes Regency-era marriages of convenience mixed with danger, romance, and a bit of mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed this one and will be rereading it.
Good romance with a little mystery thrown in.
This historical romance by Matthews has a dash of suspense and mystery sure to pull the reader in. Arthur is definitely the tortured hero, and Phyllida the woman who “saves” him. A must read.
There’s nothing I love more than a marriage of convenience trope and that’s just the situation that Philly and Arthur find themselves in. Philly is an unconventional woman and doesn’t realize her worth, nor her beauty, and when combined with her precocious personality and her adorable menagerie of dogs, she’s definitely on my list of favorites. I loved the way Arthur and Philly interacted and the way he was such a protector from her uncle and a villainous duke.
The story line and descriptions were vivid, allowing me to play this book out like a beloved movie in my mind. There were moments of danger and mystery swirling around and they only added to the story, making it more engaging–I didn’t want to put it down!
As always, the romantic chemistry was my favorite and Matthews delivered just the right touch. It was gentle and sweet, yet so endearing. This is a must-read for Regency lovers.
Content: mild romance; mild moments of danger
Heart throbbing story of wonderful love!
A romance with ups and downs along with a vengeful person in the wings.
I loved this book, from page one. The dark and broodish Captain, original and introverted Phyllida and their developing romance. Keen to seek out more Mimi Matthews’ novels. Definitely a novel for lovers of ‘Pride and Prejudice’. Also, for animal lovers like me, rest assured, no animals are harmed even though they feature throughout.
What a wonderful story and characters. I enjoyed this book until the last page. Thank you
Liked it a lt. Never expected the ending.
The story was interesting and engaging to read.