Reviewed by Francine:
The Governess Next Door opens with a
classic tale of a Byronic hero borne of natural charisma and through no fault
of his, finds himself faced with the haunting memory of an indelicate moment
with his esteemed lady cousin, to which long-lasting “what-ifs” occasionally prick
his conscience. Later, having duly fled an unhappy existence in England, Raphael
Brontes’ new life in France is not as desired though fulfilling in terms of his
artistic talents. That is, until tragedy strikes and releases him from a less
than romantic episode in his life. Shocked by a bequeathed inheritance he makes
the best of his situation, until a young minx, as tempting as the salacious devouring
of the first seasonal strawberry views him as a suitor. But Angelique reminds him
of a beautiful rose with vicious barbs, whilst her genteel governess could so
easily have stepped from the pages of Jane Eyre, if he were to judge Prudence
Middleton on reticence alone.
Like him, Prudence has a dark past
too, and although enamoured by Raphael, she knows her place in the scheme of
social standing, and duly battles against burgeoning desire despite his overt willingness
to engage her in mind and discourse. Thus, as novels penned by the Bronte
sisters’ add flavour to the romantic dialogue, the life of the full cast
becomes deeply entwined, threaded through with fictional secrets, wicked deceits,
theft, and more, and the author leaves one in no doubt she has delved into the
history of the Bronte’ household and respective novels. This is a thoroughly enthralling
and enjoyable read.
