Nearly a Lady

Jun 08, 2011 Jill rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-european, 2011-4-5-5-stars

4.5 stars

For twelve long years Winnefred (Freddie) Blythe and her friend and governess Lilly Ilestone have languished in poverty at Murdoch House in Scotland. They were sent there when Freddie was thirteen as the unwanted legal ward of the Marquess of Engsly and his unfeeling wife. After his death, his son, Lucien discovering he now has charge of a ward dispatches his brother, Gideon to Scotland to deal with the situation. The Englsy estate under the greedy and dishonest hand of Lady Engsly - Lu...more
4.5 stars

For twelve long years Winnefred (Freddie) Blythe and her friend and governess Lilly Ilestone have languished in poverty at Murdoch House in Scotland. They were sent there when Freddie was thirteen as the unwanted legal ward of the Marquess of Engsly and his unfeeling wife. After his death, his son, Lucien discovering he now has charge of a ward dispatches his brother, Gideon to Scotland to deal with the situation. The Englsy estate under the greedy and dishonest hand of Lady Engsly - Lucien and Gideon's stepmother - has withheld the allowance due to Freddie. Freddie and Lilly have barely managed to eke out an existence on the paltry five pounds a year that has been allotted to them. But they are both resourceful and hardworking.

Lord Gideon Haverston, home from the war is suffering PTSD (although it's not named that here). As Captain of the Perseverance he has witnessed the deaths of too many of his crew, especially the young boys known as 'powder monkeys'. Racked with guilt he hides behind a humorous and calm facade, vowing never to bear responsibility for anyone ever again, including a wife, children or even servants.

Freddie is charming, sincere and delightful. Still innocent, yet worldly and self-assured. Gideon is tortured, yet not embittered and thoughtful and understanding with the untutored Freddie. This character-rich story does not rely on the tediously overdone heroine who is either too snarky or tstl. Nor the boring rake nor the obnoxious alpha.

With gorgeous prose, clever and witty dialogue, realistic characters and in-depth characterisations, this novel does not need the titillation factor of overly-described sex scenes. The sexual tension builds deliciously to a sweet and satisfying conclusion. There is a secondary romance - which stays in the background - between Lucien and Rose, the enigmatic, lost love from his past.

I have read all Alissa Johnson's novels and this is in my opinion her best. She is an incredibly talented writer and I am surprised that she is not more well-known, her books not more widely-read.

Simply put, Alissa Johnson is one of the very best writers of historical romance. And Nearly a Lady is historical romance at its finest.

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Jun 13, 2011 Catherine rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: fiction-vixen-reviews, first-reads-arcs-won-a-copy, historical, romance, bad-childhood, england, excellent, read-2011, series-but-not-officially

This book was perfect for me. Seriously, perfect. I loved everything about it from the charming writing to the delightful characters. It was dead on for my mood and was much appreciated after my predominantly mediocre book luck in May.

The hero, Gideon, was such a doll. He had some issues from the past, but he didn’t let that ruin his whole personality. He’s cheerful and funny and gets enjoyment from making other people laugh. He’s drawn to Winnefred, but he isn’t the kind of guy to take somethin...more

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Jun 23, 2011 Rane rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: keeper, traditional-regency

There's always going to come a book that just surprise and delights you into remembering why you love to read the certain genre. Nearly a Lady reminded me so much of my love for the old Trad books, with it's deep characters and the beautiful blossoming relationship between the H/H that I don't see as much anymore without it having to deal with inst-o-lust something or another. You have two wonderful characters that slowly grow and reveal their innermost thoughts. Both were far from perfect as...more
There's always going to come a book that just surprise and delights you into remembering why you love to read the certain genre. Nearly a Lady reminded me so much of my love for the old Trad books, with it's deep characters and the beautiful blossoming relationship between the H/H that I don't see as much anymore without it having to deal with inst-o-lust something or another. You have two wonderful characters that slowly grow and reveal their innermost thoughts. Both were far from perfect as Gideon and Winnefred, but their were perfect in their imperfections and rocky road they travel.

Much if not all the focus in center around Gideon and Winnefred (although plus in my book) giving the reader a even greater depth to their developing relationship that starts off not so swell...

Gideon and his brother find out that their dear step-mama has been stealing for years from their now dead father and others, and a one Winnefred Blythe. Put in charge of setting out the wrong done to Winnefred, Gideon is surprised when he's thought to be a thief instead and taken down by a knock upside the head! Thankfully for us reader, this is the only misunderstanding we have to deal with! When Gideon comes to he finds two women Winnefred and her governess/bf surviving on their own in the great Scotland boonies for these past 12 years and on so little. Gideon has his hands full trying to set up Winnefred's home, and to top it off get her off to have her own season! Of course there's also Winnefred's say, and after all these's years, she's not buying.

Winnefred has lived these past years working with her hands, and while poor, she loved her work and land, but her BF wants her to at least see the world and London and a season would be a great start. Winnefred, not one to say no to her beloved BF, agrees and goes through a stiff
transformation (can't dance, tea is a chore) from country girl to young London miss. Through it all, she feels drawn to the funny and secretive Gideon whose willing to make others laugh, but has demons and nightmares hiding in his eyes. And as the day draws near for the London trip, both start to feel a deep draw to one another and it maybe Winnefred- not Gideon whom the true knight in shining armor to save not the day but Gideon heart and heals his wounds...

Unlike Alissa Johnson's earlier novels with their humor and slapstick spy humor and fun ride. Nearly a lady took another vein with it's almost easy pace and feel of walking out into a new spring day, with that lingering warm feeling. The book left me feeling the same
way along with the leads.

Winnefred wasn't a poor-me miss nor was she tough as nails. She was stubborn and strong, but was a total push-over when it came to those she loved and trust. Always pushed aside but her never-do father, Winnefred always craved more then anything and home. Even poor herself, lost a game or two to help a young boy read and get a little money saved aside- which showed more then anything Winnefred had a huge heart, which sees beyond Gideon's charming words and disarming humor to the man whose still hurting from war.

Gideon hides behind his smile, and carefree outlook, suffering from what we would call survivor's guilt, and the lost of his men and young boys of his ship he captain. He's shocked how easy Winnefred is able to see beyond that and while he tries to hide from her, he can't help but be drawn not by her beauty as she's pretty not drop dead beautiful but by her inner light. Gideon plays hops around his own emotions which were at times cute to see, while Winnefred try to buy her time knowing she just wanted Gideon to love her. Both discover and learn about one another, before even their first kiss, and while both are not so certain about being in love or what love is, we know it's only a matter a time. Though the road is rocky, as both have some demons to face down, it's not blown out into some drama, but handle with a
realistic feeling of overcoming your own demons with help of course, but "you". "You" figuring out the puzzle and doing something about it, not having someone or something help you. Gideon does this (with a little push) with no big misunderstanding or blah blah that other books use for their torture heroes, which just made me love this book even more! The romance was so sweet that you wanted to just hug someone from the warm fuzzy feeling you get with Gideon and Winnefred falling in love.

The book was beautiful in my eyes, with the secondary romance between Gideon's bro and Winnefred's BF Lily making it all that much sweeter, (I was surprise that romance it was wrapped up in this book- but still sweet) This book wasn't Nearly perfect- it was perfectly beautiful romance and a true joy to read! (less)

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Jul 10, 2011 Shawna rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Fans of Kleypas's "Love in the Afternoon", quirky heroines & tortured heroes

Recommended to Shawna by: It started with Rane and then Diana sealed it. :)

Shelves: cop-bodyguard-govop-merc-military, historical-romance, historical-romance-regency, alissa-johnson, recd-by-rane, hero-abused-scarred-tortured-angst, hh-post-traumatic-stress-disorder, animals-matter, friends-to-lovers, hh-across-the-tracks, heroine-tomboy-lady-in-pants, heroine-odd-spinster-wallflower, heroine-naïve-virgin-like-a-virgin, heroine-kickass-spirited-strong, heroine-i-adore, heroine-girl-next-door, heroine-destitute-poor, heroine-commoner-lower-class, hero-brooding, hero-gentleman, hero-mix-of-alpha-beta, favorite-romance-couple-hh-pairings, favorites, 2011-reads, 5-stars-or-higher, angsty-dark-heavy-lotsa-drama, best-faves-of-2011, best-top-favorites, best-wittiest-banter-dialogue, hero-im-gaga-over, hero-stalk-me-baby-possessive, hero-titled-wealthy-lord, heroine-abused-traumatic-past-rape, hh-aristocracy-nobility-royalty, hh-limp-paraplegic-wheelchair, hh-love-commitment-marriage-phobic, hh-physical-mental-disability-ill, hh-rags-to-riches, hh-social-class-wealth-matters, hh-sweet-nice-paired-vs-gruff-cynic, humorous-at-times-or-fluffy-fun, i-read-library, made-me-cry, satisfying-secondary-romance, steam-2-warm, sweet-romance-left-smile-on-my-face, heroine-miss-independent, hero-military-war-veteran, hero-recluse-loner-lonewolf, heroine-free-spirit-quirky, heroine-plucky-lively-feisty-spunky, hero-silent-quiet-type-reticent, heroine-hoyden, heroine-country-lass, heartwarming, feel-good-read-pick-me-upper, a-all-time-fave-heroine, best-friendships, brothers-sisters-cousins-family, hh-disfigured-injured-scarred-ill, heroine-makeover, a-all-time-best-of-best-fave-dik, hr-regency-napoleonic-era-wars

5+ stars – Historical/Regency Romance

Books like this lovely, heartwarming gem make me grateful for Goodreads, which has enabled me to make such great friends who share my passion for romance and happily ever afters and to discover so many wonderful new-to-me authors.

Nearly a Lady is such a delightful, beautiful, emotional, sweet story that’s all the more powerful because of its quiet, honest simplicity and endearing characters who steal your heart. The genuine friendship and tender, gradual roma...more

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Jun 17, 2011 Nikki rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: favourites, historical, perfect-heroine, delicious-hero, own-ebook, 5-stars

5 stars.

Historical romance at it's finest and one that stroked favourably on everything that I love about HR.

Winnefred was a darling heroine; having grown up in less that auspicious circumstances, I found her remarkably courageous, bright, witty and entertaining. She wasn't prone to fits of sullenness or bitchiness at all, her sunny disposition was a constant throughout the entire book. And though she was an innocent who grew up on what could be referred to as a farm, she knew exactly what she w...more

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Jul 13, 2011 Pamela(AllHoney) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: quirky-characters, tortured-hero, hr-georgian-regency, own, pet-or-animal-in-story, my-4-star-romances, favorites

Alissa Johnson is quickly climbing to the top of my most loved historical romance writers. She has a way of creating wonderful characters and delightful and witty banter that keeps you glued to the pages. This one was very close to a 5 star for me. I did feel it trying to lag on me but it picked back up and carried me to the end.

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Jan 21, 2012 Cecilia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: people who like a nice substantial historical without any spy silliness

The first thing I will say about this book is that it's not unintelligent. Which sounds like damning it with faint praise, but that's not my intention. It's just that the book's source of conflict - the hero's reason for resisting falling in love - skates close to the line, and is a bit simplistic in how the hero learned from one disaster in his past that he can never be responsible for a wife and children, and a bit simplistic in how he wakes up one day and gets over it. But while this kind of...more The first thing I will say about this book is that it's not unintelligent. Which sounds like damning it with faint praise, but that's not my intention. It's just that the book's source of conflict - the hero's reason for resisting falling in love - skates close to the line, and is a bit simplistic in how the hero learned from one disaster in his past that he can never be responsible for a wife and children, and a bit simplistic in how he wakes up one day and gets over it. But while this kind of "I'm conscious of all my psychological scars and allow them to control my behaviour now" trope is often used in romance, mostly really badly, in this book, it was not too bad. The character, despite this part of the plot, did not come across as stupid. So, the "not unintelligent" deserves comment, to my mind.

There are moments of genuinely cute dialogue that help to endear both the protagonists, such as during the journey, when the heroine experiences motion sickness:

“Who’d have thought?” Gideon reached for her slice of cheese and ate it whole. “Our Winnefred has a delicate constitution.”
She found her voice again. “Delicate.”
"As the petals of an orchid,” he crooned poetically and – in her opinion – stupidly. “As a single snowflake in spring.”
Something like a laugh escaped her throat.

There are a few moments that struck a chord for me, such as a scene where Gideon is suggesting what styles of gown she should pick, and steers her away from a fussy gown because she’s simple. When he reminds Winnefred, who objects to the term, that simple “can be a very fine thing,” Winnefred replies that “So can manure in a turnip patch.”

“Point taken,” he said with a curve of his lips. “Let me try another avenue of explanation. You, Winnefred Blythe, are genuine. Wholly without guile or artifice. A conversation with you requires no interpretation, no search for hidden meaning. Being friends with you is effortless. That is what I meant by simple. These…” He gestured at the plates. “These layers of ruffles and lace and intricate patterns, they belong on a woman who would hide who she is. Not on you.”

It was such a lovely speech, she hadn’t the heart to point out how much of herself she hid by trying to be a lady of the ton, nor the heart to wonder if he truly realized it.

There are a few of these moments – where one or both of the characters is failing to be ideal, or they’re hurting each other unintentionally, without noticing, in a normal way (as opposed to, you know, romance clichés like the hero calling the heroine names like “whore”) and this flaw is part of the point (not just the author writing a jerk of a character without seeming to notice). Such scenes added an authenticity to the characters that rounded them out, added some genuine feeling to the book.

Other than the trauma psychology, it’s hard to articulate precisely what was unsatisfying for me. I know that the beginning section – taming of the hoyden – didn’t work that well for me. I think it might be because it seemed so conventional a theme (Pygmalionish, Pretty Woman-ish), and that I wasn’t convinced that the circumstances would necessarily have produced a young woman who was so non-conforming to gender expectations. However, as the plot progressed, the characters certainly grew on me, and I enjoyed the latter half more than the first half.
3.5 stars
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Oct 27, 2011 Lady Danielle aka The Book Huntress rated it 4 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Regency romance readers

Recommended to Lady Danielle aka The Book Huntress by: Several GRs friends

Shelves: owned-copy, historical-romance, tortured-hero, soldier-or-military, friends-to-lovers, regency, plan-to-read-soon, uf-challenge-fall-2011, post-traumatic-stress-disorder, sigh-worthy-hero, woman-in-pants, diamond-in-the-rough, heroine-i-liked, favorites, 2011-reading

Nearly a Lady is beautiful in its simplicity as a historical romance. It's about two people getting to know each other and falling in love. There is no need for madcap adventures, a cruel villain, an extraneous mystery plot, chandelier-swinging sex scenes, or convoluted excuses for the couple to spend time together. Instead, this story is organic in its development. And I appreciated that. The characters are those who you might have seen before in Regency romance, but they seem more authentic he...more Nearly a Lady is beautiful in its simplicity as a historical romance. It's about two people getting to know each other and falling in love. There is no need for madcap adventures, a cruel villain, an extraneous mystery plot, chandelier-swinging sex scenes, or convoluted excuses for the couple to spend time together. Instead, this story is organic in its development. And I appreciated that. The characters are those who you might have seen before in Regency romance, but they seem more authentic here, stripped of their pretensions, and more like real people.

Winnefred has issues with her self-worth, and who could blame her? With a father who barely noticed her (shoving her off on governesses who had no idea what to do with her), and a long-dead mother. Her father asked his friend to watch out for her as an afterthought on his deathbed. This friend wasn't exactly thrilled to be saddled with the care of a young girl, but felt honor-bound to keep his promise. He too banished her out of his mind to far away Scotland, and through his inattention, allowed his wife to cheat Winnefred out of most of her allowance so that she only had five pounds a year to live off of. So it's understandable that she isn't predisposed to trust Gideon, her erstwhile guardian's son, when he shows up at Murdoch House, claiming to be there for her assistance. However, Gideon shows how tried and true he is, that he's worthy of her trust, her friendship, and her heart.

Gideon is not without issues. In a way, his issues are probably more damaging. He suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder after a tragic battle on the ship which he captained in the Royal Navy. He lost several members of his crew, and takes personal responsibility for their deaths. To the degree that he deeply fears being responsible for anyone. His plan is to escort Winnefred and her companion, Lily, to London, see them taken care of until his brother, the Marquess of Engsly returns, and to go on to his relatively responsibility-free life. He doesn't expect this refreshingly genuine and unpretentious young woman to carve a place in his heart and his life. He doesn't want the responsibility of a wife, but soon he can't imagine life without Winnefred in it, to stay.

I can see why this book is highly rated. The writing is very good, and the relationship between Winnefred and Gideon is so rich and honest, infectiously so. You can see their love blossom as they go from strangers to friends, and fall in love before the journey is over. And on that path to love, they struggle with each other's emotional walls in a way that resonated with me. I found their emotional journey very enjoyable to read about.

Nearly a Lady is a book for readers who want something real, with a bond between the couple that is deep and emotional; for readers looking for the opportunity to see that love relationship grow from a tiny seed to a rich, full bloom over the course of the novel. I would recommend this to historical romance readers jaded with all the shenanigans and devices that can often be overused in the genre. It's easy to get tired of the 'same old thing' because it doesn't deliver, and forget why you read a genre in the first place. When it comes to romance, the joy is watching the process of a couple falling in love, and the wonderful little moments along that path. This book delivers that joy.

Overall rating: 4.5/5.0 stars(less)

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Aug 03, 2011 Audrey rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

A very strong 3, almost a 3.5/4. This story was a pleasant Regency read that flowed well and stayed true to the voice and strong characterization of traditional Regency novels of yesteryear. I particularly liked the kind and independent heroine, Winnifred, whose lack of artifice was truly refreshing. I thought the circumstances of the physical consummation of their relationship were a little out of place in light of the traditional Regency tone and the restraint the H had shown up until that poi...more

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Jun 24, 2012 Miss Adeo rated it 3 of 5 stars

3.5 stars.

I liked the characters a lot. Especially Lilly. but feel like we weren't given enough insight into who they really were. The ending was extremely rushed and I feel like we missed a few conversations between the H and h. Like him opening up to her about his nightmares and the real reason he was so cold to her about the idea of marriage. Like reeally opening up about the war and how it effected him We skipped all that and next thing you know we're racing across the countryside saying 'I...more

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Jun 30, 2011 Sandy M rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

Alissa Johnson has it all as an author. Her writing is perfect for the Regency period; word choice, tone, inflection are flawless the way she strings her sentences together. Humor is something a lot of authors have difficulty with, but Ms. Johnson peppers her stories with just the right amount to make her characters fun and charming. The range of emotion those characters go through is wide and varied, and the heroine in this book, Winnefred, is pushed to her limit by Gideon. As much I love that...more Alissa Johnson has it all as an author. Her writing is perfect for the Regency period; word choice, tone, inflection are flawless the way she strings her sentences together. Humor is something a lot of authors have difficulty with, but Ms. Johnson peppers her stories with just the right amount to make her characters fun and charming. The range of emotion those characters go through is wide and varied, and the heroine in this book, Winnefred, is pushed to her limit by Gideon. As much I love that man, just like Freddie, I cheer her on - and I’d love to join her - when she wants to whomp him up the side of the head for his stubbornness. That’s pulling your reader into your characters’ lives, and Ms. Johnson does it all very well.

We learn first thing that Gideon’s father was supposed to have been guardian to a young girl when her father unexpectedly died and asked the closest gentleman to watch over his “Freddie.” Decidedly unhappy when he learns he’s now responsible for a girl, he pushes the youngster off on his wife, who, years later, is found to have to embezzled money left and right from any and every place she can, including Winnefred and her companion, Lilly, when they were tucked away in Scotland to be kept out of the way. The current Marquess of Engsly, Gideon’s brother, is adamant about making his stepmother’s egregiousness right, thus sending Gideon as his representative to Winnefred. What Gideon finds there delights and fascinates him, especially when he realizes he’s been bested by a couple of women.

For at least a decade Winnefred and Lilly have scrimped and saved just to survive on the paltry annual income received from the Haverston family. While a lesser woman would have succumbed to the required labor and doing without, Freddie has flourished and become someone who can take care of herself and a farm. Both ladies are stunned at the news Gideon imparts, but their days of worrying are over with the back pay they will receive. Wanting more for her friend, Lilly asks for a Season in London for Winnefred, which Gideon is more than happy to oblige but Winnefred can do without. She’s happy at Murdoch House. But she also wants Lilly to be happy. Therefore, she agrees to the lessons to turn her into a lady so she won’t embarrass Lilly or Gideon with her blunt, country ways.

I really enjoyed the interactions between Gideon and Winnefred during the weeks of society lessons and travel preparations, though they are few because Gideon has vowed to keep his distance from this lovely woman. His emotionally devastating experience in the war has left him with a skewed way of looking at responsibility. But he has retained his sense of humor, and his bantering and teasing with Winnefred is so much fun. Winnefred is even amazed at herself at how comfortable she feels with Gideon during this time, and as their journey to London draws closer, she’s looking forward to the time they’ll spend together.

But things don’t go as planned for either of them. Oh, they still spend time together, allowing attraction to grow more and more; they have a wonderful time shopping and at the balls; they enjoy a kiss or a caress here and there, feel the sparks between them, but when all is said and done, when Winnefred grabs the edges of her courage and reels it in to give herself to Gideon and then to talk to him about their future, she’s in for a shock. Refusing what Gideon offers, she’d rather be back in Scotland taking care of her animals and garden, so that’s exactly what she does. Now it’s Gideon who’s in shock. Winnefred’s anger is a force to be reckoned with. But then, so is her love.

I also enjoyed the side romance with the Marquess and his long-lost Rose. After so many years apart, at no fault of their own, she still makes him work to win her, and he goes at it full bore. I actually would have liked a little more time with them, but what we get is nice.

Ms. Johnson always carries me away when reading her books. I lose track of time I’m so lost in the story. I enjoy myself immensely, laughing and sighing and ranting when needed. I love the tender hand that guides me through the lives of characters who I come to care for immediately. And I savor the feeling I’m left with when read the last page - warm, happy, satisfied, and already imagining what might be coming in the next book.

See my complete review at http://www.goodbadandunread.com (less)

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Sep 08, 2012 Erica Anderson rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads, regency-era-romance

This little gem is easy to miss with its generic cover, but it's certainly not the usual Regency-set historical. Johnson's book should appeal to both fans of traditional Regencies, as well as historical romance readers more generally, though her heroine won't be to everyone's taste.

The first half of the book takes place in Scotland, where the impoverished heroine, Winnefred, and her friend have tried to make a living despite the fact that they've been cheated out of their income for a decade. T...more

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Sep 24, 2011 Ilze rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: alissa-johnson

This book epitomizes why I love to read romance! Purely character-driven, with 2 wonderful characters for the story - Gideon, the PTSD-affected ex-naval captain, and Winnefred, the brave, honest, resourceful, beautiful and funny heroine he discovers in a gardener's cottage in Scotland.

Excellent 5-star reviews by Rane, Catherine and a few others reflect my feelings about this book exactly. Loved it!

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Jan 14, 2013 Claudia rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance

this book was a very nice, lovely and funny read. I was delighted with the characters - both strong persons with faults and strength. both had their difficulties in the past and you could see and feel how they were affected from that. but they were never pitiful!

the relationship grew slowly and it was so nice to feel the developments. I really enjoyed the conversations they had with each other and had to smile or laugh very often. It was so beautifully written how they dealt with their attractio...more

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Jul 22, 2011 Anna (Bobs Her Hair) rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: historical romance fans

Shelves: historical-romance

This is a sweet historical romance about two good people who fall in love. The heroine is strong, intelligent, kind, and senstive. The hero reminded me of Jasper Renshaw, Viscount Vale from Elizabeth Hoyt's To Seduce a Sinner. He is charming, without being rakish, and his humor is, at times, nonsensical. He is also scarred from war and nightmares wake him.

In this story, Gideon is sent to rectify a financial wrong done to Winnefred. His step-mother has ran off after stealing a significant amount...more This is a sweet historical romance about two good people who fall in love. The heroine is strong, intelligent, kind, and senstive. The hero reminded me of Jasper Renshaw, Viscount Vale from Elizabeth Hoyt's To Seduce a Sinner. He is charming, without being rakish, and his humor is, at times, nonsensical. He is also scarred from war and nightmares wake him.

In this story, Gideon is sent to rectify a financial wrong done to Winnefred. His step-mother has ran off after stealing a significant amount of funds. It's been discovered that his deceased father had a ward who has been neglected. Gideon travels from London to the border of Scotland. He expects to find helpless woman but encounters someone altogether different, and so begins to journey.

While Winnefred has her insecurities, she is able to set them aside to pursue what she wants. She is bold and speaks her mind. Gideon is a happy-go-lucky person. He receives joy from making others laugh It's at night at that he is haunted by memories of war.

These two people do not experience lust-at-first sight. They feel a little spark of attraction, and through conversation and time spent together, fall in love. The is only one love scene. There is just so much to these characters that it never felt lacking.

Alissa Johnson created vivacious characters I came to care for, that I laughed with, and I came to adore. She takes her time building this love story and never rushes her characters. If you are ready to try something different in a historical romance, I recommend you read Nearly a Lady. It feels very natural and lacks the plot devices found in many romances. Overall, I give this book an A.

Memorable scene

She refused to give in to the sudden desire to look away. "Because you are of importance to me. You are my friend. Because..."

We've known each other less than a sennight," he reminded her with a curl of his lip. "Will you insist upon turning this into comédie larmoyante?

Hurt and temper fought for control while a thin but sharp blade of acute embarrassment worked its way under her skin. Because her hands wanted to shake, she gripped them behind her back, and to counter the sudden tremble in her jaw she raised her chin and met his eyes.
"I don't know what that is."

p. 198 - 199

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Jun 10, 2012 Caz rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 4-5-stars, favourites, romance-regency, kindle

I absolutely LOVED this book. It's warm and funny and sexy, the characters are engaging and well-rounded and I'm always a sucker for a romance in which the romantic feelings evolve from friendship.

Winnefred (odd spelling!) has been passed from pillar to post all her life, and is thus no stranger to rejection. Gideon is sent to find her by his brother in order to make financial restitution for money that was due to her as his father's ward, and their relationship doesn't get off to a great start,...more I absolutely LOVED this book. It's warm and funny and sexy, the characters are engaging and well-rounded and I'm always a sucker for a romance in which the romantic feelings evolve from friendship.

Winnefred (odd spelling!) has been passed from pillar to post all her life, and is thus no stranger to rejection. Gideon is sent to find her by his brother in order to make financial restitution for money that was due to her as his father's ward, and their relationship doesn't get off to a great start, as she and her friend Lilly whack him on the head and tie him up, believing him to be an intruder!

After that mnisunderstanding is corrected, Winnefred and Gideon strike up a warm friendship, even though it's clear that they are both attracted to one another from the off. I liked the way that Winnefred, especially, was so open with herself about it; there was no missish self-deception or denial, or a sense of feeling that she shouldn't be longing to be kissed by a handsome man!

I have to say that the one thing in all of it that struck a vaguely false note were Gideon's reasons for hanging back from allowing himself to enter into a relationship with Winnefred. His experiences during the war and how they made him eschew any responsibilties for other people, while they may be understandable, seemed a little too easily overcome.

And if I have one complaint about the book it's this. And it's not just about this book; it's something I think often about books which are set in this period written by American authors. Please, please - authors and editors - could you take care to use "pavement" instead of "sidewalk" and "autumn" instead of "fall"? And when the heroine is wondering whether she should help herself to breakfast, don't have her wondering whether to "fix herself a plate". I've had lots of discussions with friends and readers from both sides of the Pond. Some think I'm being perfectly reasonable and others that I'm being needlessly pedantic. But things like this take me right out of the story - and when I'm enjoying something as much as I enjoyed this book, it felt like having a bucket of cold water thrown over me mid-sentence!

That said, I've still given Nearly a Lady 5 stars. It's beautifully written, the banter between the hero and heroine sparkles, and it's nice to read a romance that doesn't depend on a villanous plot or turn on a Big Misunderstanding and in which the romance is organic. I'll definitely be seeking out other titles by Alissa Johnson.(less)

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Jan 11, 2012 Rose rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Romance Lovers

Recommended to Rose by: Disney Princess Reading Challenge

Shelves: reviewed

Winnefred Blythe is a woman who has been abandoned almost her whole life and forced to make do with whatever she scrapes together. She's done exceptionally well for herself under the circumstances, but when Lord Gideon Haverston shows up to repay his family's debt it stirs up both of their lives. I related strongly to Winnefred's independent personality and her need to do things on her own, and I really enjoyed her confidence when voicing her opinion during a time when women were seen as merely...more

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Jun 30, 2011 Diana~ rated it 5 of 5 stars

Recommended to Diana~ by: It all started because of Rane ;)

Shelves: historical-romance, 2011-reads, regency-romance

I had so many emotions while reading this Nearly a Lady by Alissa Johnson. First, it started out as sweetness because I adore the friendship between Winnefred and Gideon. It was so cute and they were meant to be together from the very start. Then, there was heartbreak because while these two are friends, they're also unconsciously falling in love with each other... and Gideon refuses to let that happen. And finally, peacefulness because the ending was worth all of the rollercoaster of emotions t...more I had so many emotions while reading this Nearly a Lady by Alissa Johnson. First, it started out as sweetness because I adore the friendship between Winnefred and Gideon. It was so cute and they were meant to be together from the very start. Then, there was heartbreak because while these two are friends, they're also unconsciously falling in love with each other... and Gideon refuses to let that happen. And finally, peacefulness because the ending was worth all of the rollercoaster of emotions that any reader while reading this book will encounter. It's just the perfect book to bring you back to the historical romance genre for anyone who's having a difficult time going back.

I'm pretty sure you get of the gist of the plot from the summary so I will skip that and go right into the characters. Lord Gideon Haverston is one heck of a tortured hero. Every time we get to peek inside his mind and emotions, I always feel like crying because while he wants to court Winnefred and give her whatever she wants... he also tells himself that he can never have her. There were many times in the book where I wanted to tell him to just go for it and move on from his guilt. But even though Gideon is classified as a tortured hero, his entire personality consists of being cheerful and very humorous. It's definitely a nice change of heroes from other romance novels! It's so heartbreaking because of the circumstances that his stepmother had put Winnefred in, he constantly wants to spoil her and buy things for her. The fact that he tries so hard to detach himself from her yet he can't help but be near her is so sad. It's a contradiction in itself and as a result, he's torturing himself.

Winnefred Blythe is pretty much the other half to Gideon. Their romance was just so touching because while being a wonderful and kickass heroine, she also has insecurities of her own. For example, not being good enough as in terms of being a 'lady' and disappointing her best friend, Lilly. I loved her character because she never gives up in whatever she wants and it's just that kind of determination that will eventually win Gideon's heart! And thankfully, he realizes his error in the end or he would have lost her forever. Oh! I forgot to mention that there was also a secondary romance to this book? It's actually Winnefred's best friend, Lilly and Gideon's brother, Lord Engsly. The author doesn't go much into detail about these two... except for the fact that they had a past together. Overall, I totally loved this book and it's definitely something that all romance lovers shouldn't miss out on! 5/5 stars!(less)

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Dec 02, 2011 The UHQ Nasanta rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-books-2011, obtained-library-loan, genre-historical-romance, romance, romance-disabled-or-scarred-hero, reviewed

3.5-4 stars

I wasn't exactly wild about this book. Part of this was because it started off somewhat slow, and continued to be rather...quiet. There were bits of humor interspersed which lightened the tone of the book but overall, it was...quiet.

But I continued on and tried to look for positives. I found it in the writing, in how the author detailed the process of two young people falling in love:

She caught the familiar twinkle in his dark eyes as he began a description of the Prince Regent's dru

...more

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May 22, 2012 steph rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition Recommends it for: anyone who likes simple love stories

Shelves: books-read-in-2012, e-book

This book was adorable. Absolutely adorable. Nothing happening, there were no poor, dead fathers or penniless lords, there were no gunshot wounds or deathbed confessions, no duels, no children that were born and hidden away in the country, no fortune hunters, nothing. Instead, there was this couple, these two people that met due to the mistreatment of one lady who became friends and then wondered, "is there more to us, can there be more to us?" and ugh, IT WAS ADORABLE. UTTERLY ADORABLE. Sometim...more

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Jul 11, 2011 CJ - Secret Charm rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: steamy, romance, london-england, historical-romance, just-plain-good

4.8

It has been a severely long time in which I have read a historical romance and felt like I could relate to the characters, like I was totally absorbed in the storyline and invested in the outcome.

This was that book.

I'm not going to give you a review here. Nay, I will instead point you to a review that is better than anything I could write about this book.

Isn't that Lazy CJ?

Yes. Yes it is.

But it's also right.

Catherine's Review

My only qualm is that the ending felt a tad rushed and I wish that...more

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Aug 07, 2011 Sarah (The Brazen Bookworm) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-regency

Excellent historical romance - my first from Johnson, but I'll definitely seek out more of her books. I loved the interaction between the strong-willed, tomboyish heroine and the generous but guarded hero. Winnefred ("Freddie") and Gideon were perfectly matched in their characters and principles, and were so obviously meant for one another. Their romance developed slowly but truthfully, and every moment of it was believable. Great setting and secondary characters too - I definitely recommend thi...more

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Dec 01, 2012 Deanna rated it 4 of 5 stars

4 & 1/2 stars. I love Freddie. She is the best historical heroine ever. She is not coy. She is strong and honest and brave. She does not need a man. She only wants one. Gideon is a complex character who suffers from PTS and is fighting it alone. He comes to Murdoch House to right a wrong, not to find love and accept responsibility for another human being.
This book is funny and heart warming. Not any sex until the end but a lot of lusting and dreaming. A wonderful couple. A wonderful story.

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Jul 16, 2011 Karla added it

Shelves: dnf

I've been a bit disappointed lately with the historical romances I've read. I'm really looking for that special, outstanding book. Unfortunately this didn't do much for me, but that wasn't the books fault. The writing and characters were fine it just didn't have enough going on plot-wise to keep me interested, so a DNF.

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Oct 31, 2011 Suzanne the Mighty ~Satin Seductress~ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, hero-i-wanna-hug, pdf-kindle, fugly-cover, sweeter-than-honey

This was a fantastic read, I had a hard big putting it down! What I liked was that you could see Gideon and Winnefred falling in love without the aid of a massive misunderdtanding, kidnappping or any other plot device. It was a nice gentle read showing two people with difficult pasts come together.

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Apr 14, 2012 Zumbagirl rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012, brothers, emotionally-scarred, hero-with-affliction, scarred-disfigured, strong-secondary-characters, tortured-hero, two-love-stories, unlikely-husband, warrior-hero

3.5/4 stars
For some reason, I could not get into this book. I really enjoyed An Unexpected Gentleman but this one didn't set the world on fire. I'm not a fan of the tortured hero and Gideon would fit that description. He's probably suffering from PTSD and has both emotional and physical scars. I also don't like heroes that play the I can't get married/I can't have children/I can't forgive myself card. There are two love stories here and the other couple was a better match, imo. There was some pr...more

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Feb 20, 2012 Ana rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical

This was sweet :-)
Freddie was a nice character, as well as Gideon. It reminds me of Julia Quinn's books: the passion between the two was not overhelming, but their relationship was strong and nice. They were really fond of each other, and this book portraied well their story.
If I were in Freddie's shoes, I would have played much more the jealousy card. It would be so much fun.

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Jul 10, 2011 Linda rated it 5 of 5 stars

Loved it! 2nd bk I've read of hers so far & both hv been really good. I like her style, lots of witty repartee & humor yet wonderfully romantic. Tearing up a bit at the end. She makes the hero & heroine extremely lovable; swooning over the hero & cheering for the heroine.

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Aug 27, 2011 Babyfishmouth rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance, kindle

Sweet romance. Loved the slow progression of Gideon and Winnifred's friendship and awareness of each other. She was smart and thoughtful. He was charming and kind. When they finally succumb to passion, it felt gratifying and right.

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Jul 31, 2011 Gaile rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: 19th-century, regency, emery-s-2011-challenge

Frisky and fun! Lord Gideon Haverston doesn't expect to fall in love with one of his misplaced ward let alone discover the other is his long lost brother's love. Fall in love he does. Independent Winnefred Blythe wishes only to run her small farm herself although she could certainly use the full eighty pounds annum she is supposed instead of just five pounds from stingy Lady Engsly. Along comes Lord Gideon. Can he be trusted? Why is her friend and mentor. Lily so anxious for a season in London?
W...more

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Nearly a Lady (Haverston Family #1)

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