Return to Satterthwaite Court by Mimi Matthews

 

Return to Satterthwaite Court by Mimi Matthews

This was my first novel by this author, but I’m sure it won’t be my last.

Here’s the summary:

A reckless Victorian heiress sets her sights on a dashing ex-naval lieutenant, determined to win his heart as the two of them embark on a quest to solve a decades-old mystery in USA Today bestselling author Mimi Matthews's sequel to her critically acclaimed novels The Work of Art and Gentleman Jim.

Lieutenant Charles Heywood has had his fill of adventure. Battle-weary and disillusioned, he returns to England, resolved to settle down to a quiet, uneventful life on an estate of his own. But arranging to purchase the property he desires is more difficult than Charles ever imagined. The place is mired in secrets, some of which may prove deadly. If he’s going to unravel them, he’ll need the assistance of someone as daring as he is.

At only twenty, Lady Katherine Beresford has already earned a scandalous reputation. As skilled with pistols as she is on horseback, she’s never met an obstacle she can’t surmount—or a man she can’t win. That is, until she encounters the infuriatingly somber Lieutenant Heywood. But Kate refuses to be deterred by the raven-haired soldier’s strong, silent façade. After all, faint heart never won handsome gentleman.

From the wilds of rural Somersetshire to the glittering ballrooms of early-Victorian London, Charles and Kate embark on a cross-country quest to solve a decades’ old mystery. Will the greatest danger be to their hearts—or to their lives?

And now, my review:

The title is a mouthful, but the story is very enjoyable. I liked the author’s voice and ability to spin an enjoyable historical. She’s won a new fan. Her historical prose is so enjoyable.

Her novel was well-researched. Both the author and heroine buck tradition in a believable and humorous way at times and I loved that aspect. Like when the heroine pursues the hero. (see summary above) Fun and funny! Anytime a strong, active, self-aware heroine plays lead in a historical, the resulting story is delightful for modern readers. She knows her own will and acts on it while readers cheer, "Brava!"

At times I was a little lost because I hadn’t read this author’s earlier books, so I’d recommend beginning with those first.

This strong, brave, adventurous heroine kept me turning pages. And it was a delight trying to unravel the hero’s mysteries as well.

This is a “clean” or “sweet” romance. Christian readers may remark a few wording choices that may make them flinch. Generally, I didn’t see much that was objectionable.

A great read!