What do you think?
Rate this book
The Beauchamp Betrothals #3
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray
Love or family…
How can she choose between them?
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has always put her family first. Until she falls under the spell of the mysterious Zachary Gray—a man of Romany descent. Knowing her family will forbid their match, Cecily steels herself to do her duty and marry someone else. Only she finds herself irresistibly drawn to Zach as the spark between them ignites a passion neither can deny!
How can she choose between them?
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has always put her family first. Until she falls under the spell of the mysterious Zachary Gray—a man of Romany descent. Knowing her family will forbid their match, Cecily steels herself to do her duty and marry someone else. Only she finds herself irresistibly drawn to Zach as the spark between them ignites a passion neither can deny!
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 17, 2018
About the author
Janice Preston
83 books152 followersI grew up in Wembley, North London, with a love of reading, writing stories and animals. After leaving school at eighteen, I moved to Devon and any thoughts of writing became lost in the hectic rush of life as a farmer’s wife, with two children and many animals to care for. When my children left home for university, I discovered a love of history and of the Regency period in particular and began to write seriously for the first time since my teens.
Real life then got in the way and I didn't write again until 2009. I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2012 and my first Regency romance was accepted for publication by Harlequin Mills & Boon in late 2013.
I now live in the West Midlands with my second husband and two cats and I continue to write Regency romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon.
Real life then got in the way and I didn't write again until 2009. I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2012 and my first Regency romance was accepted for publication by Harlequin Mills & Boon in late 2013.
I now live in the West Midlands with my second husband and two cats and I continue to write Regency romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
May 25, 2018
In Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray, the third book in her
Beauchamp Betrothals
series, author Janice Preston introduces readers to Lady Cecily Beauchamp, thirty-year-old spinster sister of Leo, Duke of Cheriton and his brother, Vernon, who both found their HEAs in the previous books in the series. It’s a gently moving story in which Cecily, who has devoted her life to her family, finds herself torn between familial love and romantic love; after years of putting others first, can she find the courage to follow her own heart or will the duty and decorum that have always been expected of her prove too strong to overcome?
While Cecily is delighted that both her brothers have found love, she’s finding it difficult to stop herself dwelling on the prospect of the life of ‘maiden-aunt-hood’ that now stretches before her. At thirty, she’s been on the shelf for some years and has spent the best part of her life running the family home and was the main carer of Leo’s young three children after the death of their mother. With those children now grown to adulthood and Leo newly married, Cecily’s life has changed irrevocably and she is no longer needed by anyone.
These thoughts weigh heavily on her during Vernon’s wedding, and she is hard pressed to maintain the poise characteristic of her – but maintain it she does, no matter that she’s feeling despondent and very fragile. But as the day wears on, she finds increasingly difficult to maintain her social mask and escapes into the garden for a few minutes’ peace. Which is where she literally bumps into the distractingly handsome Mr. Zachary Gray, a fellow guest and friend of the bride’s brother, Daniel Markham. Mr Gray somehow divines her state of unrest and gently encourages her to share her burdens with him, and even though Cecily knows the damage that could be done to her reputation should she be discovered walking with a man unchaperoned, there’s something about him that draws her, a confidence and self-awareness she finds very attractive.
Cecily continues to think of the mysterious Mr. Gray – Zach, as he asked her to call him – throughout the evening, and they meet again a few times over the next few days. But all the time, she is conscious that while he might be a friend of the Markhams, Zach is viewed with suspicion and prejudice, even by her brothers, who subtly and then not-so subtly warn her against him. In any case, Cecily has no hopes in that direction – or so she tries to persuade herself – because she has reached a decision. A year earlier she had turned down a proposal from Lord Kilburn, a man older than she with a young family; but marriage will mean she can avoid the role of dependent relative, and she decides to see if Kilburn is prepared to renew his offer.
Zach has lived with prejudice for most of his life but he refuses to apologise for who and what he is. He is actually the son of an earl and a Romany woman who were legally married and disowned by society – after his mother’s death when he was sixteen, he went to live with her people and has continued to follow their way of living ever since. The author has clearly done her homework on the Romany way of life, and presents it in a subtle way – and she also does a very good job showing the sort of blind prejudice Zach and his people faced, even from people like Cecily’s brothers, who are decent, honourable gentlemen. Zach is a lovely hero; a man who is comfortable in his own skin, and who has learned the importance of being true to oneself. He’s honest and genuine, the sort of man who doesn’t need to be high-handed or arrogant because he has nothing to prove to anyone, and he’s completely swoonworthy.
When Zach meets Cecily, he recognises her vulnerability and her desire to do and be more than the perfect lady she has been brought up to be. He longs to show her how to live for herself and how to listen to her heart; he knows that she isn’t for him, that he shouldn’t be looking for her or spending much time with her, but he can’t help himself.
Before long, however, Leo and Vernon realise that Cecily and Zach have been spending time together, and forbid her to see him again. Cecily is horribly torn, but the prospect of leaving behind her beloved family and everything she has ever known terrifies her, and here I’ll admit to being in two minds about her. On the one hand, Cecily is so scared at the thought of striking out on a path different to the one she has followed most of her life that it makes her seem rather insipid. But on the other, that fear is something we have probably all faced, and in all likelihood, some of us have taken the path of familiarity and of least resistance, even though we suspect doing so might not make us happy. And in Cecily’s case, her initial choice of the life she knows over the life she could have is perfectly in keeping with the sort of woman she is – one brought up to value propriety, duty and decorum above personal wishes. So while I can’t deny I was a little disappointed in her at that point, I appreciated that the author has created a heroine who is very much of her time and of her class. And I definitely appreciated the character growth she exhibits in the second half of the book as she comes to realise that Zach is right and she needs to listen to her heart and reach out for what she wants.
To sum up, Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray is a well-written, strongly characterised and emotionally satisfying story featuring two likeable principals who act, talk and think like adults – something that isn’t always a given in romance novels. My one real criticism of the book is that while the chemistry between Cecily and Zach is evident, the beginning of their romance is rather abrupt; I wouldn’t quite call it insta-love, but it’s close, and readers are told the pair are falling in love rather than being shown it. That said, this is nonetheless a story I’m happy to recommend to anyone in search of a low-angst, sweetly sensual historical romance.
While Cecily is delighted that both her brothers have found love, she’s finding it difficult to stop herself dwelling on the prospect of the life of ‘maiden-aunt-hood’ that now stretches before her. At thirty, she’s been on the shelf for some years and has spent the best part of her life running the family home and was the main carer of Leo’s young three children after the death of their mother. With those children now grown to adulthood and Leo newly married, Cecily’s life has changed irrevocably and she is no longer needed by anyone.
These thoughts weigh heavily on her during Vernon’s wedding, and she is hard pressed to maintain the poise characteristic of her – but maintain it she does, no matter that she’s feeling despondent and very fragile. But as the day wears on, she finds increasingly difficult to maintain her social mask and escapes into the garden for a few minutes’ peace. Which is where she literally bumps into the distractingly handsome Mr. Zachary Gray, a fellow guest and friend of the bride’s brother, Daniel Markham. Mr Gray somehow divines her state of unrest and gently encourages her to share her burdens with him, and even though Cecily knows the damage that could be done to her reputation should she be discovered walking with a man unchaperoned, there’s something about him that draws her, a confidence and self-awareness she finds very attractive.
Cecily continues to think of the mysterious Mr. Gray – Zach, as he asked her to call him – throughout the evening, and they meet again a few times over the next few days. But all the time, she is conscious that while he might be a friend of the Markhams, Zach is viewed with suspicion and prejudice, even by her brothers, who subtly and then not-so subtly warn her against him. In any case, Cecily has no hopes in that direction – or so she tries to persuade herself – because she has reached a decision. A year earlier she had turned down a proposal from Lord Kilburn, a man older than she with a young family; but marriage will mean she can avoid the role of dependent relative, and she decides to see if Kilburn is prepared to renew his offer.
Zach has lived with prejudice for most of his life but he refuses to apologise for who and what he is. He is actually the son of an earl and a Romany woman who were legally married and disowned by society – after his mother’s death when he was sixteen, he went to live with her people and has continued to follow their way of living ever since. The author has clearly done her homework on the Romany way of life, and presents it in a subtle way – and she also does a very good job showing the sort of blind prejudice Zach and his people faced, even from people like Cecily’s brothers, who are decent, honourable gentlemen. Zach is a lovely hero; a man who is comfortable in his own skin, and who has learned the importance of being true to oneself. He’s honest and genuine, the sort of man who doesn’t need to be high-handed or arrogant because he has nothing to prove to anyone, and he’s completely swoonworthy.
When Zach meets Cecily, he recognises her vulnerability and her desire to do and be more than the perfect lady she has been brought up to be. He longs to show her how to live for herself and how to listen to her heart; he knows that she isn’t for him, that he shouldn’t be looking for her or spending much time with her, but he can’t help himself.
Before long, however, Leo and Vernon realise that Cecily and Zach have been spending time together, and forbid her to see him again. Cecily is horribly torn, but the prospect of leaving behind her beloved family and everything she has ever known terrifies her, and here I’ll admit to being in two minds about her. On the one hand, Cecily is so scared at the thought of striking out on a path different to the one she has followed most of her life that it makes her seem rather insipid. But on the other, that fear is something we have probably all faced, and in all likelihood, some of us have taken the path of familiarity and of least resistance, even though we suspect doing so might not make us happy. And in Cecily’s case, her initial choice of the life she knows over the life she could have is perfectly in keeping with the sort of woman she is – one brought up to value propriety, duty and decorum above personal wishes. So while I can’t deny I was a little disappointed in her at that point, I appreciated that the author has created a heroine who is very much of her time and of her class. And I definitely appreciated the character growth she exhibits in the second half of the book as she comes to realise that Zach is right and she needs to listen to her heart and reach out for what she wants.
To sum up, Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray is a well-written, strongly characterised and emotionally satisfying story featuring two likeable principals who act, talk and think like adults – something that isn’t always a given in romance novels. My one real criticism of the book is that while the chemistry between Cecily and Zach is evident, the beginning of their romance is rather abrupt; I wouldn’t quite call it insta-love, but it’s close, and readers are told the pair are falling in love rather than being shown it. That said, this is nonetheless a story I’m happy to recommend to anyone in search of a low-angst, sweetly sensual historical romance.
March 19, 2018
This is so much more than a five star, it is nearing ten!!
Oh. My word! What an incredible edition to this series, after reading the previous book ‘Scandal and Miss Markham’ I did wonder if this series could get any better but along came ‘Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr Gray’ and boom! This was how a perfectly great series, that I loved from the start can become something extortionary – it was one of those ‘How have I gone through life, without this in it??’ moments. This is a book that has got pride a place on my bookshelf and one that I know for a fact, I will be pulling off to read again, and again and again….
Cecily is feeling out of sorts since her two-brother’s married, she has always looked after her family, she has always been the one responsible for the day to day running of the Beauchamp home and now, but now with Leo getting himself a new Duchess she feels like she isn’t needed any more. She feels like an interloper amongst her own family, she is at a loss and is contemplating what her future will be as the spinster sister and aunt. Then she meet’s a mysterious stranger with the twinkling diamond in his ear and she is mesmerised by him, she knows she shouldn’t, but she can’t help herself. When he looks at her it’s like he is looking into her very heart and soul, and when they talk, he says so much in just few words and it is in those few words that he gives her the best advise anyone has ever given her; she has choices!
After a passionate encounter on a moon lit night, they both cannot get enough of each other, they are inexplicably drawn to each other. They enjoy stolen kisses and moments until their attraction is soon discovered and they are forbidden from seeing each, but they cannot deny their feeling for each other. For the first time in Cecily’s life she has found someone who genuinely understands her, but she is torn. She loves her family dearly and she doesn’t want to do anything that will hurt them, or even worse she doesn’t want to lose them. But, her feelings for Zach have taken on a whole life of their own, can she really have her perfect life with both sides?
Now I liked Leo, I was intrigued by Vernon, but I am drawn to Zach. Like a moth to a flame! He is a magnificent specimen of am man. Pure, honest, sexy as hell 😉 there is a sensitive, calmness about him that mystifies you, It’s true, I am a little in love with this charismatic, dashing and mystical creature.
What an ending, it is hugely romantic, spectacularly composed! With the addition of beautiful Athena the owl, the end is the stuff of dreams. It is a beautiful scene and one that I can definitely see as a movie scene is just perfect, as is all the book!
I absolutely love this book, these characters – especially a few of the animals that have been added to the story, I do have to say that little Myrtle has to be a favourite of mine and I am sure that anyone who knows me will know why. This has to my favourite of this series, I don’t know how Ms Preston is going to top this, personally I don’t think it’s possible to get a better love story.
Oh. My word! What an incredible edition to this series, after reading the previous book ‘Scandal and Miss Markham’ I did wonder if this series could get any better but along came ‘Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr Gray’ and boom! This was how a perfectly great series, that I loved from the start can become something extortionary – it was one of those ‘How have I gone through life, without this in it??’ moments. This is a book that has got pride a place on my bookshelf and one that I know for a fact, I will be pulling off to read again, and again and again….
Cecily is feeling out of sorts since her two-brother’s married, she has always looked after her family, she has always been the one responsible for the day to day running of the Beauchamp home and now, but now with Leo getting himself a new Duchess she feels like she isn’t needed any more. She feels like an interloper amongst her own family, she is at a loss and is contemplating what her future will be as the spinster sister and aunt. Then she meet’s a mysterious stranger with the twinkling diamond in his ear and she is mesmerised by him, she knows she shouldn’t, but she can’t help herself. When he looks at her it’s like he is looking into her very heart and soul, and when they talk, he says so much in just few words and it is in those few words that he gives her the best advise anyone has ever given her; she has choices!
After a passionate encounter on a moon lit night, they both cannot get enough of each other, they are inexplicably drawn to each other. They enjoy stolen kisses and moments until their attraction is soon discovered and they are forbidden from seeing each, but they cannot deny their feeling for each other. For the first time in Cecily’s life she has found someone who genuinely understands her, but she is torn. She loves her family dearly and she doesn’t want to do anything that will hurt them, or even worse she doesn’t want to lose them. But, her feelings for Zach have taken on a whole life of their own, can she really have her perfect life with both sides?
Now I liked Leo, I was intrigued by Vernon, but I am drawn to Zach. Like a moth to a flame! He is a magnificent specimen of am man. Pure, honest, sexy as hell 😉 there is a sensitive, calmness about him that mystifies you, It’s true, I am a little in love with this charismatic, dashing and mystical creature.
What an ending, it is hugely romantic, spectacularly composed! With the addition of beautiful Athena the owl, the end is the stuff of dreams. It is a beautiful scene and one that I can definitely see as a movie scene is just perfect, as is all the book!
I absolutely love this book, these characters – especially a few of the animals that have been added to the story, I do have to say that little Myrtle has to be a favourite of mine and I am sure that anyone who knows me will know why. This has to my favourite of this series, I don’t know how Ms Preston is going to top this, personally I don’t think it’s possible to get a better love story.
July 8, 2019
This historical romance was so full of ruminating and I soon started skimming. The conversations where so mundane and I was easily distracted away from reading. Eventually I started skipping chapters. The story was just more of the same and so predictable although I did finish. Lady Cecily is attracted to Romany Zach but she knows she must marry a man from her same class.
April 24, 2018
It was at her brother Vernon’s wedding that Lady Cecily Beauchamp started feeling melancholy. She was glad that her two brothers were happily married, but what was to become of her now? They had no need for her anymore, would she remain the dependent relation from now on with no husband, no children, no household of her own? Feeling despondent, Cecily went to the garden where she met the most exotic man she had ever laid her eyes on: Zach Gray, the man with the diamond earring was a friend of the brother of the bride. And a very perceptive man, it turned out, a near stranger to whom she eagerly unburdens her conflicted soul. Oh, that she could have so charming a suitor! Except that Mr Gray is of Romany descent; even for a thirty year-old spinster, it would not be acceptable, she a daughter and sister of dukes. With a heavy heart, Cecily concludes that she will accept Lord Kilburn’s proposal, does she truly have any other choice?
Do not expect LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY to be a cute little story where pretty people make googly eyes at each other, where some aristocrats are slightly shocked then charmed by the colourful Romany man, and that after a little pish posh, all is well; this is not fluff. LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY is one of the most emotionally gripping stories I have recently read, and a spellbinding one; not because of some mystery, but from a human point of view. Zach has dealt with prejudice for most of his life, from people like Cecily’s family, and he chose to life his life the way he wanted: that of a Romany, like a nomad. Cecily has always done the right thing, done what was asked of her, never ruffling any feathers, but she loves her family and her life of privilege. Cecily and Zach do fall in love, but what is right: doing what one must or doing what one wants to do?
Janice Preston paints an extraordinary picture of Regency society and its prejudices, which affect even our heroes and heroines. I was extremely surprised – and delighted beyond belief – at how realistically the question of this “forbidden” romance was handled. I nearly subtracted a star from my review because of a detail in Zach’s past, but then mentally I added three more stars for the way Zach reacted to the situation, and how bravely Ms. Preston dealt with the prejudice issue. There is so much tension on all sides, and so well conveyed, that I could almost feel the atmosphere vibrating with the tension, the sparks flying between Zach and Cecily, and the storm brewing on Leo’s side – Cecily’s older brother, the Duke. Leo is one formidable character, and slightly terrifying. LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY is filled with exceptionally fleshed-out characters, and I loved Daniel Markham and Olivia – one of Leo’s daughters, among others. Character development is possibly the most impressive I have ever read, and no one has it easy.
I could say so much more, but some of it could be seen as spoiler material, so I will reluctantly abstain, but take my word for it, you will cheer, you will feel humbled, maybe even slightly ashamed, you will hurt and weep and rejoice; I believe LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY will leave no one unmoved. I was alternatively stunned, ecstatic, and in tears at how the story, and the romance, unfolded. Janice Preston’s weaves her magic through her dynamic, eloquent, flowing prose and smart dialogues, thus creating a Regency world of such authenticity that I was immersed in that world from the beginning. I am in awe.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Do not expect LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY to be a cute little story where pretty people make googly eyes at each other, where some aristocrats are slightly shocked then charmed by the colourful Romany man, and that after a little pish posh, all is well; this is not fluff. LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY is one of the most emotionally gripping stories I have recently read, and a spellbinding one; not because of some mystery, but from a human point of view. Zach has dealt with prejudice for most of his life, from people like Cecily’s family, and he chose to life his life the way he wanted: that of a Romany, like a nomad. Cecily has always done the right thing, done what was asked of her, never ruffling any feathers, but she loves her family and her life of privilege. Cecily and Zach do fall in love, but what is right: doing what one must or doing what one wants to do?
Janice Preston paints an extraordinary picture of Regency society and its prejudices, which affect even our heroes and heroines. I was extremely surprised – and delighted beyond belief – at how realistically the question of this “forbidden” romance was handled. I nearly subtracted a star from my review because of a detail in Zach’s past, but then mentally I added three more stars for the way Zach reacted to the situation, and how bravely Ms. Preston dealt with the prejudice issue. There is so much tension on all sides, and so well conveyed, that I could almost feel the atmosphere vibrating with the tension, the sparks flying between Zach and Cecily, and the storm brewing on Leo’s side – Cecily’s older brother, the Duke. Leo is one formidable character, and slightly terrifying. LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY is filled with exceptionally fleshed-out characters, and I loved Daniel Markham and Olivia – one of Leo’s daughters, among others. Character development is possibly the most impressive I have ever read, and no one has it easy.
I could say so much more, but some of it could be seen as spoiler material, so I will reluctantly abstain, but take my word for it, you will cheer, you will feel humbled, maybe even slightly ashamed, you will hurt and weep and rejoice; I believe LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR GRAY will leave no one unmoved. I was alternatively stunned, ecstatic, and in tears at how the story, and the romance, unfolded. Janice Preston’s weaves her magic through her dynamic, eloquent, flowing prose and smart dialogues, thus creating a Regency world of such authenticity that I was immersed in that world from the beginning. I am in awe.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 3, 2018
Naughtiness 3 *
Utterly enchanting, most definitely love this book very much, literally cried several times with our heroine as well as being enraged for both hero and heroine at times.
I won't give spoilers, but will say this truly is an awesome story with adventure, twists, heartbreak, joy and much more Janice most definitely knows how to tell an amazing story and I can't wait for more.
Thank you Janice for writing this beautiful book and giving me the honour of reading it.
Utterly enchanting, most definitely love this book very much, literally cried several times with our heroine as well as being enraged for both hero and heroine at times.
I won't give spoilers, but will say this truly is an awesome story with adventure, twists, heartbreak, joy and much more Janice most definitely knows how to tell an amazing story and I can't wait for more.
Thank you Janice for writing this beautiful book and giving me the honour of reading it.
January 3, 2019
This is a bizarre historical romance. The first page tells me that it's early 1812 in Worcestershire, but after that frankly there is nothing whatsoever that suggests it is set in that time frame. The characters have no difficulty undertaking journeys of many miles, the (rich) women swan around without chaperones for trysts as they please and just talk to random strangers as they go, even the police force works pretty much as it does in 21st century UK... I read historical romance for the manners, the dresses, I need some form of historic accuracy...
April 20, 2019
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr Gray is the third book in The Beauchamp Betrothals series by Janice Preston. Not having read the first two books I can confirm that you don't have to read them in order to understand and enjoy this book.
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has always been happy living with her family. Since both of her brothers have married their soulmates, Cecily starts to feel melancholy. She is 30 and doesn't want to be the maiden aunt or the sister who goes from family member to family member living with them. She wants to find her own soulmate, to have a home, a husband and children of her own.
At the reception after her brother's wedding, Cecily needs to get some fresh air, and it's in the garden that she meets Zach Gray. He is there as a friend of the bride's brother. He is extremely handsome and Cecily particularly likes the diamond earring he is wearing. She thinks it's the most exotic thing she has ever seen.
Zach's mother was a Romany gypsy, she married Zach's aristocratic father much to a lot of people's disgust. After his father died Zach turned his back on the aristocracy and fully accepted his Romany roots. Travelling with them he changed his life entirely and even changed his name so nobody would know who he really was.
Zach is as attracted to Cecily as she is to him, though neither wants to admit it. Zach knows that even being half Romany means that he would never be good enough to be accepted as a partner to Cecily. Still determined to marry, even if it can't be to Zach, the man she is considering is one that Zach knows. He is a mean, awful man and although he can't offer for him himself Zach does all he can to make Cecily not accept a proposal from the man.
The more time that Zach spends with Cecily the more they realise that they could easily fall in love with each other. Some shared intimacies could easily go all the way if it wasn't for the fact that Cecily needed to stay 'whole' for her future husband. Those steamy scenes were extremely worthy of breaking out the fan!
So, what is so wrong with the man that Cecily could end up betrothed to, and even if she doesn't listen to Zach, is she that desperate to marry that she will choose him over Zach purely because she has to do the right thing by her family.
This was an amazing story because not only was there a loving passionate romance building between Zach and Cecily, but we also got to see the nasty side of London's society. Zach's father was treated terribly by some, getting the cut direct after marrying his Romany wife. Then, in turn, Zach has been treated abominably by those same people, but worst still, by his own half brother. What he went through brought tears to my eyes. He deserved a happy ever after and I am so glad that he got one. How did it come about? Well, you will have to read the book to find out. Just make sure you have a tissue or two at the ready.
I really enjoyed this book and can't recommend it enough.
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has always been happy living with her family. Since both of her brothers have married their soulmates, Cecily starts to feel melancholy. She is 30 and doesn't want to be the maiden aunt or the sister who goes from family member to family member living with them. She wants to find her own soulmate, to have a home, a husband and children of her own.
At the reception after her brother's wedding, Cecily needs to get some fresh air, and it's in the garden that she meets Zach Gray. He is there as a friend of the bride's brother. He is extremely handsome and Cecily particularly likes the diamond earring he is wearing. She thinks it's the most exotic thing she has ever seen.
Zach's mother was a Romany gypsy, she married Zach's aristocratic father much to a lot of people's disgust. After his father died Zach turned his back on the aristocracy and fully accepted his Romany roots. Travelling with them he changed his life entirely and even changed his name so nobody would know who he really was.
Zach is as attracted to Cecily as she is to him, though neither wants to admit it. Zach knows that even being half Romany means that he would never be good enough to be accepted as a partner to Cecily. Still determined to marry, even if it can't be to Zach, the man she is considering is one that Zach knows. He is a mean, awful man and although he can't offer for him himself Zach does all he can to make Cecily not accept a proposal from the man.
The more time that Zach spends with Cecily the more they realise that they could easily fall in love with each other. Some shared intimacies could easily go all the way if it wasn't for the fact that Cecily needed to stay 'whole' for her future husband. Those steamy scenes were extremely worthy of breaking out the fan!
So, what is so wrong with the man that Cecily could end up betrothed to, and even if she doesn't listen to Zach, is she that desperate to marry that she will choose him over Zach purely because she has to do the right thing by her family.
This was an amazing story because not only was there a loving passionate romance building between Zach and Cecily, but we also got to see the nasty side of London's society. Zach's father was treated terribly by some, getting the cut direct after marrying his Romany wife. Then, in turn, Zach has been treated abominably by those same people, but worst still, by his own half brother. What he went through brought tears to my eyes. He deserved a happy ever after and I am so glad that he got one. How did it come about? Well, you will have to read the book to find out. Just make sure you have a tissue or two at the ready.
I really enjoyed this book and can't recommend it enough.
April 27, 2018
Ever read a book that was so good you didn’t want it to end, but at the same time you wanted to finish it to find out how the story unfolds?
Such a book is this latest by Janice Preston.
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray is the third in the Beauchamp Betrothals series and I simply could not put it down. Cecily is the daughter and sister of dukes. Zach Gray is, well he’s Romani. We first met Zach when he was still going by the name of Absalom and had saved the life of Thea’s brother, Daniel, in book two of the Beauchamp Betrothals. This new episode in the story of the Beauchamp family opens at the wedding of Lord Vernon (Lady Cecily’s brother) and Thea. Cecily is sitting next to Zach in church and the tale develops from there.
Zach has a back story which is filled with betrayal, violence and a change in circumstances that altered the course of his life for the following ten years.
At her brother’s wedding, Cecily realizes that she has to change the course of her life or dwindle into a maiden aunt always living in someone else’s home.
How, despite the duplicity of a nobleman, Zach and Cecily find their lives intertwined and how they come to a HEA makes for a fantastic read with many twists and turns.
Brava, Ms. Preston, you’ve penned another winner.
Such a book is this latest by Janice Preston.
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray is the third in the Beauchamp Betrothals series and I simply could not put it down. Cecily is the daughter and sister of dukes. Zach Gray is, well he’s Romani. We first met Zach when he was still going by the name of Absalom and had saved the life of Thea’s brother, Daniel, in book two of the Beauchamp Betrothals. This new episode in the story of the Beauchamp family opens at the wedding of Lord Vernon (Lady Cecily’s brother) and Thea. Cecily is sitting next to Zach in church and the tale develops from there.
Zach has a back story which is filled with betrayal, violence and a change in circumstances that altered the course of his life for the following ten years.
At her brother’s wedding, Cecily realizes that she has to change the course of her life or dwindle into a maiden aunt always living in someone else’s home.
How, despite the duplicity of a nobleman, Zach and Cecily find their lives intertwined and how they come to a HEA makes for a fantastic read with many twists and turns.
Brava, Ms. Preston, you’ve penned another winner.
May 29, 2018
This book is fricken awesome! I don’t usually say fricken in my reviews but I am at a loss for better words. Janice Preston is a new author to me and she has found a fan in me. I am going to have to go back and read the previous books. I completely loved this one, it was a true love conquers all story. It had me believing that true love can overcome any and all obstacles. I fell in love with the characters, from Zach *swoon* and Cecily, her overbearing brothers, right down to Athena, Myrtle,Titan, and Sancho Panza. There is so much humour, warmth and feeling that flows freely through the pages and I enjoyed every minute of it. I can’t begin to praise it enough!!
July 12, 2018
This is book three in the Beauchamp Betrothals series. I think this is by far my favorite story so far and I have given five stars to the prior ones. If I could give 10 stars to this romance I would. This story has everything: a dashing hero, a strong loving heroine and a horrid villain. I can’t wait to read the next installment. Bravo Ms Preston!
March 10, 2018
[I received this book in exchange for an honest review.]
I don't know where to start. Let's just say that I'm very thankful that Janice sent me the book so I could read and review it. I didn't read the blurb before I got the book, I only knew the title, I all I know was that the book was about Cecily, Leo and Vernon's sister, and a mysterious man just known to me as "Mr. Gray".
Oh well, you can imagine how crazy excited I got when I start reading and found out Mr. Gray was a gypsy, also know as Romany. I had to immediately stop and read the blurb, because I still hadn't read that damn blurb. (No idea why I didn't until that moment.) And after I read it I was thankful that I wasn't crazy, so I got to my reading again and just kept falling in love with the story.
I think I loved this book more than the other two. I think people should read the book and see how the differences between all of us doesn't mean that we are less good or noble. It's our hearts and actions that matter, not our birth or nationality or even religion. So I loved that.
In Portugal we have a lot of gypsies and most people still have some bad ideas about them. I do believe that like any other group of people, there are those that are good people, honest, hard working, kind, intelligent or whatever other attribute we could thing a good people has, and then there are those that do bad things (thieves, murderers, plain mean idiots and dishonest people, ...), and still, there are people that put every single person, good or bad, honest or dishonest, in the same category because they have the same nationality, religion, ethnicity. That just makes me sad and mad too.
As a Social Educator college student, that's not what they teach us. I have colleagues that are interning in institutions or associations that work with different kinds of people, from the elderly, to ethnicity differences, from disabilities and kids in risky situations, from group homes, to elderly retirement or nursing homes, to hospitals, to schools and libraries. So we are in contact with people that are each one different from the other.
Anyway, so Cecily and Zach... They met at Vernon and Thea's wedding and as you read the book you won't control your emotions, I'm telling you... You will loved their interactions and you will want to know more about Zach and you will start to get all emotional, from happy to angry, to happy again, then sad, then angry, then happy.... You get what I mean. It was like that to me.
Cecily is looking for something. Maybe she's looking for herself, maybe she's looking for love, maybe she's looking for a path... Maybe it's Zach... You will have to read the book to find out, because I won't spoil things and let you know what happens, but you can imagine how difficult it will be.
Knowing about Zach and the fact that he's a Romany, you guys can imagine what that meant at that time, or what people thought, if people are still mean about Romany today, because of their preconceived ideas, so no wonder some characters in the book acted that way too. It still surprised me, especially one of the character actions.
Over all, I loved it. I love how this book couple give people another perspective about differences, and I do hope that it help people understand that it's our actions, ideas and our hearts that count, not the color of our skin, or our nationality, religion or ethnicity.
Do I recommend the book? Definitely! YES!
Another brilliant book by Janice Preston, and now one of my favorite books. It was a 5* read.
[Olivia's book is next, and I wonder what she's going to do and what she's going to have to surpass. That is going to be a fun book to read and I can't wait to see how Leo is going to deal with his opinionated daughter.]
I don't know where to start. Let's just say that I'm very thankful that Janice sent me the book so I could read and review it. I didn't read the blurb before I got the book, I only knew the title, I all I know was that the book was about Cecily, Leo and Vernon's sister, and a mysterious man just known to me as "Mr. Gray".
Oh well, you can imagine how crazy excited I got when I start reading and found out Mr. Gray was a gypsy, also know as Romany. I had to immediately stop and read the blurb, because I still hadn't read that damn blurb. (No idea why I didn't until that moment.) And after I read it I was thankful that I wasn't crazy, so I got to my reading again and just kept falling in love with the story.
I think I loved this book more than the other two. I think people should read the book and see how the differences between all of us doesn't mean that we are less good or noble. It's our hearts and actions that matter, not our birth or nationality or even religion. So I loved that.
In Portugal we have a lot of gypsies and most people still have some bad ideas about them. I do believe that like any other group of people, there are those that are good people, honest, hard working, kind, intelligent or whatever other attribute we could thing a good people has, and then there are those that do bad things (thieves, murderers, plain mean idiots and dishonest people, ...), and still, there are people that put every single person, good or bad, honest or dishonest, in the same category because they have the same nationality, religion, ethnicity. That just makes me sad and mad too.
As a Social Educator college student, that's not what they teach us. I have colleagues that are interning in institutions or associations that work with different kinds of people, from the elderly, to ethnicity differences, from disabilities and kids in risky situations, from group homes, to elderly retirement or nursing homes, to hospitals, to schools and libraries. So we are in contact with people that are each one different from the other.
Anyway, so Cecily and Zach... They met at Vernon and Thea's wedding and as you read the book you won't control your emotions, I'm telling you... You will loved their interactions and you will want to know more about Zach and you will start to get all emotional, from happy to angry, to happy again, then sad, then angry, then happy.... You get what I mean. It was like that to me.
Cecily is looking for something. Maybe she's looking for herself, maybe she's looking for love, maybe she's looking for a path... Maybe it's Zach... You will have to read the book to find out, because I won't spoil things and let you know what happens, but you can imagine how difficult it will be.
Knowing about Zach and the fact that he's a Romany, you guys can imagine what that meant at that time, or what people thought, if people are still mean about Romany today, because of their preconceived ideas, so no wonder some characters in the book acted that way too. It still surprised me, especially one of the character actions.
Over all, I loved it. I love how this book couple give people another perspective about differences, and I do hope that it help people understand that it's our actions, ideas and our hearts that count, not the color of our skin, or our nationality, religion or ethnicity.
Do I recommend the book? Definitely! YES!
Another brilliant book by Janice Preston, and now one of my favorite books. It was a 5* read.
May 21, 2018
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has always acted the perfect lady, but her life is about to be turned upside down when she meets Zachary Gray at the wedding of her brother Vernon.
Readers of the previous instalment of this series (the excellent ‘Scandal and Miss Markham’) will recall Vernon and Thea’s hunt for her missing brother, Daniel, and the story of his rescue by a mysterious Romany. Picking up the story at Thea and Vernon’s wedding, the mysterious Mr Gray of the title transpires to be Daniel’s rescuer, and now good friend of the Markham family. Naturally, society (and Cecily’s brothers) would be against any sort of relationship between Cecily and Zach, given his family history, but fate has other ideas and the joy of watching these two wonderful characters falling in love makes this book so enjoyable.
For all the Regency novels I have read, I have never come across a hero quite like Zach. Indeed, one of the first things we learn about him is that he wears a diamond earring (‘exotic’ is how Cecily describes it), and he is also quite verbose with his words of wisdom - his speech to Cecily about what you feel you should do and what you actually want to do is really something, and it is this sentiment that stays with you as the story progresses.
Whilst she may act prim and proper (Zach resorts to calling her ‘Lady Perfect’), Cecily is actually something of a free spirt, and Zach just listens and understands that she needs to find a place for herself in her rapidly changing family. As soon as this is realised, the stage is set for a compelling against the odds love story which is joyous, heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable.
Janice Preston has created some wonderful leading men in her books, but Zach may have just become my new favourite (with apologies to Lord Rothley!) simply because he is a genuinely lovely man who has the potential to make Cecily see beyond the life she has always known. The two share some excellent scenes including Cecily’s attempts to look after Zach’s animals when he is sick, and her clandestine visits to Zach’s campsite, and his London lodgings. There is humour and warmth as we follow the two falling in love and trying to work out how there can be a future for them, not least when faced with opposition from Cecily’s brothers Leo and Vernon, and the dastardly Lord Kilburn (an excellent villain who you genuinely despise when his part in Zach’s past comes to light), but ultimately realising that you can choose your own path, even if it means changing everything you think you know.
The re-visiting of characters from previous books is another strong point of Janice Preston’s writing, and it was enjoyable to catch up with Thea and Vernon, as well as Leo and Rosalind, and readers of Leo and Rosalind’s story ‘Cinderella and The Duke’ will no doubt chuckle when they hear Rosalind contemplate whether she could persuade Leo to get himself a diamond earring like Zach.
I look forward to the next instalment of The Beauchamp Betrothals series.
Readers of the previous instalment of this series (the excellent ‘Scandal and Miss Markham’) will recall Vernon and Thea’s hunt for her missing brother, Daniel, and the story of his rescue by a mysterious Romany. Picking up the story at Thea and Vernon’s wedding, the mysterious Mr Gray of the title transpires to be Daniel’s rescuer, and now good friend of the Markham family. Naturally, society (and Cecily’s brothers) would be against any sort of relationship between Cecily and Zach, given his family history, but fate has other ideas and the joy of watching these two wonderful characters falling in love makes this book so enjoyable.
For all the Regency novels I have read, I have never come across a hero quite like Zach. Indeed, one of the first things we learn about him is that he wears a diamond earring (‘exotic’ is how Cecily describes it), and he is also quite verbose with his words of wisdom - his speech to Cecily about what you feel you should do and what you actually want to do is really something, and it is this sentiment that stays with you as the story progresses.
Whilst she may act prim and proper (Zach resorts to calling her ‘Lady Perfect’), Cecily is actually something of a free spirt, and Zach just listens and understands that she needs to find a place for herself in her rapidly changing family. As soon as this is realised, the stage is set for a compelling against the odds love story which is joyous, heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable.
Janice Preston has created some wonderful leading men in her books, but Zach may have just become my new favourite (with apologies to Lord Rothley!) simply because he is a genuinely lovely man who has the potential to make Cecily see beyond the life she has always known. The two share some excellent scenes including Cecily’s attempts to look after Zach’s animals when he is sick, and her clandestine visits to Zach’s campsite, and his London lodgings. There is humour and warmth as we follow the two falling in love and trying to work out how there can be a future for them, not least when faced with opposition from Cecily’s brothers Leo and Vernon, and the dastardly Lord Kilburn (an excellent villain who you genuinely despise when his part in Zach’s past comes to light), but ultimately realising that you can choose your own path, even if it means changing everything you think you know.
The re-visiting of characters from previous books is another strong point of Janice Preston’s writing, and it was enjoyable to catch up with Thea and Vernon, as well as Leo and Rosalind, and readers of Leo and Rosalind’s story ‘Cinderella and The Duke’ will no doubt chuckle when they hear Rosalind contemplate whether she could persuade Leo to get himself a diamond earring like Zach.
I look forward to the next instalment of The Beauchamp Betrothals series.
May 29, 2018
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-LE
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has spent her life raising her widowed brother's children and managing his household. Now that Leo has remarried, Cecily has no desire to become the poor relation, and is pondering her future. Although she is thirty years old, she's still young enough to marry, and possibly have children of her own. Cecily thinks about Lord Kilburn, the suitor whose proposal she refused a year ago, and wonders if she should renew their acquaintance. She doesn't love him, but perhaps he's her best chance at marriage. But Cecily's attention is caught by a tall, dark, and handsome man -- a man with whom a romance is forbidden.
Zachary Gray is attending the wedding of his friend's sister into the powerful Beauchamp family, when he notices a beautiful woman deep in contemplation. They strike up a conversation, and feel an instant rapport, which only increases over their next several meetings. Being half Romany, Zach is aware that he's not considered suitable for Cecily, truly not even as an acquaintance. Still their attraction grows. They are determined to stay away from each other, but can't seem to do so.
As Cecily's brothers begin to notice that she is often in Zach's company, their opposition to the connection becomes stronger and more vocal. Cecily is torn between taking the safe path and pursuing her suitor of a year ago, or risking losing her position in society as well as her family to follow her heart and a future with Zach.
I admit that I was very disappointed at first with Cecily's failure to stand up to her brothers and her reluctance to immediately fully accept Zach. However, upon seeing how society truly treated him, calling him a gypsy and worse, and treating him as less than human, I began to understand how drastically her life would change. As Cecily's brothers, Leo and Vernon, were heroes of the last two books in this series, it did pain me to see them so hard headed and reluctant to even consider Zach, and to watch them use their influence to separate the couple.
LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR. GRAY is more than a lighthearted romance, as it delves into people's prejudices and fear of what and who is different from them. Zach is a beautiful person, despite the abuse he suffered and the things he lost. He's a gentle soul who has his own demons to face and choices to make if he is to have any chance of a future with Cecily. I love that Cecily had the full support of her brother's wives right from the get go. Though he was slow getting there, Leo eventually showed his true nature and what he was made of when the chips were down, and I felt he nicely redeemed himself. I think Cecily and Zach's happily-ever-after was sweeter because it was so hard won, and their passionate love story concludes with a romantic scene that had me smiling, if a bit teary eyed.
Lady Cecily Beauchamp has spent her life raising her widowed brother's children and managing his household. Now that Leo has remarried, Cecily has no desire to become the poor relation, and is pondering her future. Although she is thirty years old, she's still young enough to marry, and possibly have children of her own. Cecily thinks about Lord Kilburn, the suitor whose proposal she refused a year ago, and wonders if she should renew their acquaintance. She doesn't love him, but perhaps he's her best chance at marriage. But Cecily's attention is caught by a tall, dark, and handsome man -- a man with whom a romance is forbidden.
Zachary Gray is attending the wedding of his friend's sister into the powerful Beauchamp family, when he notices a beautiful woman deep in contemplation. They strike up a conversation, and feel an instant rapport, which only increases over their next several meetings. Being half Romany, Zach is aware that he's not considered suitable for Cecily, truly not even as an acquaintance. Still their attraction grows. They are determined to stay away from each other, but can't seem to do so.
As Cecily's brothers begin to notice that she is often in Zach's company, their opposition to the connection becomes stronger and more vocal. Cecily is torn between taking the safe path and pursuing her suitor of a year ago, or risking losing her position in society as well as her family to follow her heart and a future with Zach.
I admit that I was very disappointed at first with Cecily's failure to stand up to her brothers and her reluctance to immediately fully accept Zach. However, upon seeing how society truly treated him, calling him a gypsy and worse, and treating him as less than human, I began to understand how drastically her life would change. As Cecily's brothers, Leo and Vernon, were heroes of the last two books in this series, it did pain me to see them so hard headed and reluctant to even consider Zach, and to watch them use their influence to separate the couple.
LADY CECILY AND THE MYSTERIOUS MR. GRAY is more than a lighthearted romance, as it delves into people's prejudices and fear of what and who is different from them. Zach is a beautiful person, despite the abuse he suffered and the things he lost. He's a gentle soul who has his own demons to face and choices to make if he is to have any chance of a future with Cecily. I love that Cecily had the full support of her brother's wives right from the get go. Though he was slow getting there, Leo eventually showed his true nature and what he was made of when the chips were down, and I felt he nicely redeemed himself. I think Cecily and Zach's happily-ever-after was sweeter because it was so hard won, and their passionate love story concludes with a romantic scene that had me smiling, if a bit teary eyed.
May 3, 2018
I'm not really sure where to start with this review as I loved this story so much! My attention was captured completely from the wonderful characters to the romance which was perfect. Cecily is someone who I instantly liked, you can feel how unbalanced her life is after her brothers have found happiness. There has been quite a bit of upheaval in her life within a short period of time. So I totally understood both her sadness over how everything had changed and also the joy she felt that they had found love.
What can I say about Zach other than I think I fell a little for him myself he was kind, dreamy and had an inner strength that I loved. Then pair him with Cecily and just the simple act of listening to her made him perfect. Their friendship was a delight to read then add in the sparks that flew whenever they were near each other really made for such an entertaining story. I wish that I could have read this book in one sitting as it felt as if I was well and truly caught up in their lives.
Even though there is a beautiful chemistry between them their romance is effectively forbidden due to Zach's Romany heritage. However this book shows us how even though we are different it is how we act and feel that truly shows our real character. There is a lovely emotional connection that I didn't necessarily expect to feel and Janice Preston has created some wonderful characters.
I have read the first book in The Beauchamp Proposals series but I have to admit that I haven't had the chance to read book two as yet. However this is a perfect example of how each book in the series is easily read as a standalone. Now I just need to find the time to read Scandal and Miss Markham while I eagerly await the release of book four in the series.
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr Gray is a truly charming and gorgeous story!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Janice Preston for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
What can I say about Zach other than I think I fell a little for him myself he was kind, dreamy and had an inner strength that I loved. Then pair him with Cecily and just the simple act of listening to her made him perfect. Their friendship was a delight to read then add in the sparks that flew whenever they were near each other really made for such an entertaining story. I wish that I could have read this book in one sitting as it felt as if I was well and truly caught up in their lives.
Even though there is a beautiful chemistry between them their romance is effectively forbidden due to Zach's Romany heritage. However this book shows us how even though we are different it is how we act and feel that truly shows our real character. There is a lovely emotional connection that I didn't necessarily expect to feel and Janice Preston has created some wonderful characters.
I have read the first book in The Beauchamp Proposals series but I have to admit that I haven't had the chance to read book two as yet. However this is a perfect example of how each book in the series is easily read as a standalone. Now I just need to find the time to read Scandal and Miss Markham while I eagerly await the release of book four in the series.
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr Gray is a truly charming and gorgeous story!
Five stars from me!
With thanks to Janice Preston for my copy. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
September 4, 2018
This is the last book in The Beauchamp Betrothals series & I absolutely loved it! What a fabulous ending to this series!
Lady Cecily Beauchamp is the younger sister to Lord Vernon Beauchamp and Leo the Duke of Cheriton, they were the heroes in the first two books in this series. We met our hero Zachary Gray in the previous book and he's somewhat of a mystery, hence the title! :-)
I have liked Cecily from the beginning book. She's now 30 and has spent her entire adult life in charge of her family household and taking care of her widowed brothers children. So when her two older brothers find love and get married within 4 months she feels her comfortable world unsettled. This is when she first meets our hero. Zach and Cecily form a friendship and although they are both drawn to each other and begin to have feeling for each other, their stations in life are so different that both know nothing can come of it.
I absolutely fell in love with Zach! He was such an interesting, charismatic and loveable hero. Zach also has some secrets he's hiding that could possibly change his relationship with Cecily. As their love grows and their feelings become known to each other and the people around them, people do their best to keep this couple apart. This story has an absolutely beautiful ending and is absolutely fitting for this special couple and their HEA.
This truly was the perfect story to end this series. From the wonderful secondary characters, the fabulous storyline, to a couple who captured my heart, if I could I would give it 10 stars! I've absolutely loved this entire series and look forward to reading Janice Preston's newest Beauchamp series, The Beauchamp Heirs featuring Leo the Duke of Cheriton's three children!
Lady Cecily Beauchamp is the younger sister to Lord Vernon Beauchamp and Leo the Duke of Cheriton, they were the heroes in the first two books in this series. We met our hero Zachary Gray in the previous book and he's somewhat of a mystery, hence the title! :-)
I have liked Cecily from the beginning book. She's now 30 and has spent her entire adult life in charge of her family household and taking care of her widowed brothers children. So when her two older brothers find love and get married within 4 months she feels her comfortable world unsettled. This is when she first meets our hero. Zach and Cecily form a friendship and although they are both drawn to each other and begin to have feeling for each other, their stations in life are so different that both know nothing can come of it.
I absolutely fell in love with Zach! He was such an interesting, charismatic and loveable hero. Zach also has some secrets he's hiding that could possibly change his relationship with Cecily. As their love grows and their feelings become known to each other and the people around them, people do their best to keep this couple apart. This story has an absolutely beautiful ending and is absolutely fitting for this special couple and their HEA.
This truly was the perfect story to end this series. From the wonderful secondary characters, the fabulous storyline, to a couple who captured my heart, if I could I would give it 10 stars! I've absolutely loved this entire series and look forward to reading Janice Preston's newest Beauchamp series, The Beauchamp Heirs featuring Leo the Duke of Cheriton's three children!
May 3, 2018
Lady Cecily And The Mysterious Mr Gray is a Regency romance and book #3 of The Beauchamp Betrothals series.
Thirty year old Lady Cecily attends the marriage of her brother Vernon. He is the second family member to find love in recent months. The wedding atmosphere is beautiful, but makes Cecily feel disheartened about her own future prospects. She fears she will become the spinster aunt; always the companion, but never the one with a family of her own.
Lost in thought, Cecily is unaware of the wedding guest seated next to her in the church. Mr Gray (later to be known as Zach) is the man who recently saved the life of the bride’s brother. They meet later in the gardens, where Gray sees through Cecily’s inner turmoil. Their conversation flows easily and Cecily find herself opening up about her fears. See here for full review https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-bfM
Thirty year old Lady Cecily attends the marriage of her brother Vernon. He is the second family member to find love in recent months. The wedding atmosphere is beautiful, but makes Cecily feel disheartened about her own future prospects. She fears she will become the spinster aunt; always the companion, but never the one with a family of her own.
Lost in thought, Cecily is unaware of the wedding guest seated next to her in the church. Mr Gray (later to be known as Zach) is the man who recently saved the life of the bride’s brother. They meet later in the gardens, where Gray sees through Cecily’s inner turmoil. Their conversation flows easily and Cecily find herself opening up about her fears. See here for full review https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-bfM
May 17, 2019
A really enjoyable read that held my attention. Both the hero and heroine were likable with Zach prepared to fight for what he wanted, and although Cecily, the heroine had understandable misgivings, she came through in the end. The secondary characters were consistent to characther throughout the story and the antagonist Kilburn provided plenty of conflict. And who could not like Athena the owl, Myrtle, the three legged dog, Titan the horse, and Pancho, the donkey.
A very good read and highly recommended.
A very good read and highly recommended.
June 2, 2018
The story is set in 1811, and begins in Worcestershire and later moves to London. Lady Cecily Beauchamp realizes that she no longer has a responsibility to her family, is at a loss as what to do with her life. Zachary Gray is a good friend of Daniel Markham. Zachary is also half Romany. Preston addresses Prejudice against the Romany.
March 25, 2022
This was the third book in the Beauchamp series. Lady Cecily the youngest sister of the Duke of Cheriton falls in love with Mr.Gray who is unsuitable as he is a Romany. They try to overcome her family's objections. I found Zach and Cecily to be sweet characters and story was well written in parts. The ending was a bit convoluted.
July 5, 2018
Something a bit different with a half Romany hero and a Duke's daughter for the heroine, which made for some excellent conflict. She must choose between her family and her heart, a painful and difficult choice. But she makes the right one!
December 28, 2024
DNF at 15%
The book has to capture me from the start, otherwise I'm getting bored quickly. Neither of the two main characters seem to have an engaging personality, which makes their conversations tedious. I don't care enough to continue reading.
The book has to capture me from the start, otherwise I'm getting bored quickly. Neither of the two main characters seem to have an engaging personality, which makes their conversations tedious. I don't care enough to continue reading.
May 5, 2018
I love a story of forbidden love. Excellent writing. Terrific plot.
July 31, 2018
Loved this story of forbidden fruit. A passionate, noble Romany in English society. Great story.
September 21, 2024
Įtraukiantis meilės romanas apie XIX a. pradžios Angliją. Gaila, kad baigėsi serija. Kaži, gal yra susijusių istorijų.
November 25, 2019
In most historical romances, one of the protagonists changes or grows in emotional ways which helps advance the storyline. In Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray both protagonists change, grow in wonderful ways. As usual, Ms Preston writes a splendid book. It did lose one star for steaminess.
September 30, 2018
Lady Cecily and the Mysterious Mr. Gray by Janice Preston is a glorious historical romance featuring characters whose lives unfold in the most entertaining of ways. I loved the way the author paints a flourishing picture of romance, angst and drama on the page. Her writing is tautly woven, remarkably fast-paced and genuinely satisfying. Her characters are likable, dramatic, passionate and commanding and I enjoyed every bit of tantalizing scenarios where Zachary and Cecily butted heads. All I can say is Janice Preston is best at what she does and I can't wait to devour her next release!
Highly Recommended
5 Sars
Highly Recommended
5 Sars
Read
April 20, 2018Miniseries: The Beauchamp Betrothals
Read
May 2, 2018"Preston’s latest Harlequin Historical is perfect for a light evening’s read when a dutiful spinster meets a mysterious Romany wedding guest who ignites more than passion when he insists life is too short to settle for duty" (RT Book Reviews).
Miniseries: The Beauchamp Betrothals
Miniseries: The Beauchamp Betrothals
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews