Royal Regency Romance #1
By Jen Geigle Johnson
JEN GEIGLE JOHNSON has written
The Nobleman's DaughterScarlet, A Lady's Maid, Tabitha's Folly, Charmed by His Lordship, Dating the Duke, Back to His Lordship, Christmas Courting, Yuletide Regency, His Lady in Hiding, A Foreign Crown, and Widows of Somerset.By Jen Geigle Johnson
The Oldenburg nation has tried to remain neutral in the conflict between George III's Britain and Napoleon's France. But French privateers are using Oldenburg's policies against her - robbing and plundering her ships while presenting different colors while in port. As the youngest of the King's eight sons, Prince Layton Wilhelm has seen first-hand the French's subterfuge and he has had enough. Seeking to promote an alliance with the British, Layton never expected to be tasked with the duty of brokering such feat. To his surprise and discomfort, Layton finds himself setting sail for Britain and King George's court.
Lady Aribella Bardsley knows her duty to the Crown, to the Queen, and to her family. When she receives Queen Charlotte's summons to join her entourage of ladies-in-waiting, Aribella's only hesitation is leaving her father behind. But she has been preparing for this role for most of her life and she is about to step into her late mother's position of most-trusted confidant. But little can prepare one for the political machinations within the royal residence. Aribella's loyalties are about to be tested as she accepts the honor bestowed on her and her family.
Layton finds himself having to navigate the complexities of Britain's Royal family - not an easy task when you don't know all the rules and customs of the land.
When Layton and Aribella's paths cross while en route to St. James they form a connection - one that seems doomed due to their duties and loyalties. But Aribella's very duties to the Queen make her the perfect go-between to help Layton gain an understanding of the political dangers. Layton finds himself somewhat adrift navigating the complexities of Britain's Royal family - not an easy task when you don't know all the rules and customs of the land.
In Layton, the Queen sees a potential match for one of her daughters. Is Layton willing to commit to a royal alliance to obtain the naval assistance that Oldenburg seeks? And what of his growing feelings for the lovely lady-in-waiting Aribella? Layton, like Aribella, is torn between duty and feelings of the heart.
A Foreign Crown is set in 1810, and here we are introduced to the English court of King George III. The King is unwell, having suffered from his malady for some time. His eldest son Prince George is considered inadequate in regard to ruling the country given his wastrel ways. Queen Charlotte, who possesses the intellectual faculties to rule is stymied by the laws of the land. It is into this world that Layton and Aribella find themselves. Each interaction brings them closer not only to one another but also to leaving duty behind. Forgetting their duties could cost them everything.
I really enjoyed getting a glimpse into the court of King George III. I found it interesting how Queen Charlotte seemed to be so aware of the political workings and yet none of her children (at least those we get to know) seem to show any inclination to familiarize themselves with it. Overall I would recommend this book to fans of historical fiction, Regency fiction, gentle reads, and clean romance. If you like all four this is perfect for you as it offers them in a well-balanced blend that will delight and entertain. Those new to Jen Geigle Johnson's work will appreciate starting with this book as it is the first in the Royal Regency Romance series. If you have previously read the author's work you will not be disappointed. At more than 200 pages you won't feel as if you are left wanting or that the book resolved itself too quickly. This is a perfect length for an enjoyable weekend read.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations other than I offer my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
About the Book:
Following a devastating series of misfortunes, Lady Aribella Bardsley has bravely shoulderedthe responsibilities of her household. But just as the bleakness of her situation threatens to
overwhelm her, a summons arrives from the Queen with a providential offer: Aribella’s presence
is requested as a lady-in-waiting at the palace.
Prince Layton Wilhelm’s family has clung to their neutrality in the war for far too long. As the
youngest of the King of Oldenburg’s eight sons, Layton is determined to prove his worth and
Prince Layton Wilhelm’s family has clung to their neutrality in the war for far too long. As the
youngest of the King of Oldenburg’s eight sons, Layton is determined to prove his worth and
is unwilling to turn a blind eye to Napoleon’s encroaching privateers. When Layton embarks
on a journey to England, it is for one purpose: to petition the British navy for aid. But when he
becomes acquainted with the lovely Lady Aribella, he cannot deny their powerful connection.
Amid the intrigues and schemes within the walls of the palace, Layton and Aribella know a future
together is impossible—but torn between loyalty and love, will they risk everything to follow their
hearts?
About the Author:
Meet her online at https://jengeiglejohnson.com/
Excellent artistic cover--I enjoy how the dress and sky flow together. The setting of this one and the royal characters make this sound exciting to read.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds pretty cool! I've never heard much about Queen Charlotte before.
ReplyDeleteeclitton at gmail dot com
New author for me.
ReplyDeleteNew author and am loving the synopsis! One of my favorite eras in time.
ReplyDeleteSounds good and a new author for me!
ReplyDelete