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Strangers #3
Stranger at the Villa
A new physician arrives in the village, but is he all he seems?
Susannah Winslade is twenty-six, and drifting into perpetual spinsterhood as she tries to care for her sick stepmother, look after her young brothers and sisters, and keep her father sober and solvent. Her brother Henry isn’t much help, either. She doesn’t mind. Once upon a time, she met the perfect man and until someone like him comes into her life, she’s happy at home, with her wildflower painting for solace.
Samuel Broughton has come to Great Maeswood to make a new start as a country physician. It’s a small practice, but at least it’s steady work and everyone is friendly. Finally he’s reached a safe harbour where he can look about him for a wife. At last he has a future! But there’s something very strange going on at his surgery, and then, just when his hopes of a family of his own might be fulfilled, the unthinkable happens. Is there no escaping the past?
This is a complete story with a happy ever after. Book 3 of a 6 book series. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
Susannah Winslade is twenty-six, and drifting into perpetual spinsterhood as she tries to care for her sick stepmother, look after her young brothers and sisters, and keep her father sober and solvent. Her brother Henry isn’t much help, either. She doesn’t mind. Once upon a time, she met the perfect man and until someone like him comes into her life, she’s happy at home, with her wildflower painting for solace.
Samuel Broughton has come to Great Maeswood to make a new start as a country physician. It’s a small practice, but at least it’s steady work and everyone is friendly. Finally he’s reached a safe harbour where he can look about him for a wife. At last he has a future! But there’s something very strange going on at his surgery, and then, just when his hopes of a family of his own might be fulfilled, the unthinkable happens. Is there no escaping the past?
This is a complete story with a happy ever after. Book 3 of a 6 book series. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 13, 2021
459 people are currently reading
204 people want to read
About the author
Mary Kingswood
70 books480 followersI live in the beautiful Highlands of Scotland with my husband. I like chocolate, whisky, my Kindle, massed pipe bands, long leisurely lunches, chocolate, going places in my campervan, eating pizza in Italy, summer nights that never get dark, wood fires in winter, chocolate, the view from the study window looking out over the Moray Firth and the Black Isle to the mountains beyond. And chocolate. I dislike driving on motorways, cooking, shopping, hospitals.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
The lovely lady in my avatar is Archduchess Clementina of Austria (1798-1881), Princess of Salerno, painted around 1839.
NOTE: I read Regency romances as well as write them, and I review them all on my website, or you can find them right here on Goodreads on my real-name account at Pauline M. Ross.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
June 4, 2021
I was given this copy in return for an honest review.
Mary Kingswood writes absorbing, well-researched regency mystery/romance novels, and this one does not disappoint. If you are a fan of Georgette Heyer, Jane Austen and other clean Regency novels, you will love this.
Stranger at the Villa is no. 3 in a 6 book series, with the addition of a novella (book 0). Reviewing the book as a stand-alone novel is tricky, as I’ve read books 0-2; but I don’t think it matters if you haven’t, it will still stand. There is plenty of help to understand who’s who, and the romance has its full journey within these pages. Of course it will probably sit even better if you read the others first – go on, treat yourself!
Stranger at the Villa concentrates on Susannah, the eldest daughter of Squire Winslade, who seems to wear out his poor wives like shoes before shopping for a new one. It’s only natural, then, that the running of the house is left to her. Twenty six and unmarried, you might think Susannah is destined for spinsterhood; but she has a very persistent suitor. Will he be able to supplant the image of the young man she met at the tender age of 14, who embodies her ideal of manhood? Great Maeswood is a small village, and spinsters there don’t have a great deal of choice. Along with Agnes - who propositions any male who comes within her orbit -and Cass, who is secretly betrothed to the handsome vicar (I have my suspicions about him) Susannah doesn’t have any particular beauty to recommend her, so surely his persistence will pay off?
Into this scenario comes a young doctor with a mysterious past, neither rich nor eligible, nor even greatly handsome; but he brings refreshing new medical ideas, and the women - even the married ones - flutter around him like flies. When two unexpected deaths occur, he is puzzled, and starts to ask awkward questions. Those questions are picked up by Captain Edgerton and his investigative crew, who will be familiar to Mary Kingswood fans. Alas, in raking up the past, they rake up more than the doctor bargained for….
As a mid-series novel, there are strands of story that wander through from previous novels and wander back out again without denouement, but this just whetted my appetite for the next. I enjoyed it, with the minor, picky reservation that I found the solving of the murder a little disappointing, almost a side issue to the mystery of the wine and of the doctor’s past. The romance, while easy to predict, did not disappoint and although I was never in any doubt who would win Susannah’s hand, it’s how we get there that makes the difference. It’s very refreshing to find a Regency novel about ordinary working people rather than the Cinderella trope of the rich Duke falling for the poor nobody. Although this is not necessarily her best novel, it's still an excellent read, made even better if you start with the earlier books. Mary Kingswood writes with clarity and intelligence, and she manages to avoid modern Americanisms that don’t sit well for the English reader. Bring on no 4, I’ll certainly be buying it!
Mary Kingswood writes absorbing, well-researched regency mystery/romance novels, and this one does not disappoint. If you are a fan of Georgette Heyer, Jane Austen and other clean Regency novels, you will love this.
Stranger at the Villa is no. 3 in a 6 book series, with the addition of a novella (book 0). Reviewing the book as a stand-alone novel is tricky, as I’ve read books 0-2; but I don’t think it matters if you haven’t, it will still stand. There is plenty of help to understand who’s who, and the romance has its full journey within these pages. Of course it will probably sit even better if you read the others first – go on, treat yourself!
Stranger at the Villa concentrates on Susannah, the eldest daughter of Squire Winslade, who seems to wear out his poor wives like shoes before shopping for a new one. It’s only natural, then, that the running of the house is left to her. Twenty six and unmarried, you might think Susannah is destined for spinsterhood; but she has a very persistent suitor. Will he be able to supplant the image of the young man she met at the tender age of 14, who embodies her ideal of manhood? Great Maeswood is a small village, and spinsters there don’t have a great deal of choice. Along with Agnes - who propositions any male who comes within her orbit -and Cass, who is secretly betrothed to the handsome vicar (I have my suspicions about him) Susannah doesn’t have any particular beauty to recommend her, so surely his persistence will pay off?
Into this scenario comes a young doctor with a mysterious past, neither rich nor eligible, nor even greatly handsome; but he brings refreshing new medical ideas, and the women - even the married ones - flutter around him like flies. When two unexpected deaths occur, he is puzzled, and starts to ask awkward questions. Those questions are picked up by Captain Edgerton and his investigative crew, who will be familiar to Mary Kingswood fans. Alas, in raking up the past, they rake up more than the doctor bargained for….
As a mid-series novel, there are strands of story that wander through from previous novels and wander back out again without denouement, but this just whetted my appetite for the next. I enjoyed it, with the minor, picky reservation that I found the solving of the murder a little disappointing, almost a side issue to the mystery of the wine and of the doctor’s past. The romance, while easy to predict, did not disappoint and although I was never in any doubt who would win Susannah’s hand, it’s how we get there that makes the difference. It’s very refreshing to find a Regency novel about ordinary working people rather than the Cinderella trope of the rich Duke falling for the poor nobody. Although this is not necessarily her best novel, it's still an excellent read, made even better if you start with the earlier books. Mary Kingswood writes with clarity and intelligence, and she manages to avoid modern Americanisms that don’t sit well for the English reader. Bring on no 4, I’ll certainly be buying it!
June 17, 2021
More mystery than romance, but very good
I really love Mary Kingswood, but this was kind of a miss for me, compared too her other books. There are so many subplots, so many mysteries within mysteries, some of it very dark, it felt like the romance got short shrift. The Squire is oblivious to the needs of his family. There are actually quite a few totally oblivious characters. I truly hope we’ve seen the last of Jeffrey Rycroft, for example. Poor Cass sure picked the wrong man. And all those little children being raised without their mother. I just found the Winslade family very hard to like. Dr Broughton’s story made me cry, but I just couldn’t feel them as a couple. I realize that he had to put his past behind him, and it was very well done. But once the awful truths were revealed, past and present, I expected more reaction. I think I was more upset than the people directly involved. Nevertheless , I love Great Maeswood and it’s very colorful inhabitants and can’t wait for the next book.
I really love Mary Kingswood, but this was kind of a miss for me, compared too her other books. There are so many subplots, so many mysteries within mysteries, some of it very dark, it felt like the romance got short shrift. The Squire is oblivious to the needs of his family. There are actually quite a few totally oblivious characters. I truly hope we’ve seen the last of Jeffrey Rycroft, for example. Poor Cass sure picked the wrong man. And all those little children being raised without their mother. I just found the Winslade family very hard to like. Dr Broughton’s story made me cry, but I just couldn’t feel them as a couple. I realize that he had to put his past behind him, and it was very well done. But once the awful truths were revealed, past and present, I expected more reaction. I think I was more upset than the people directly involved. Nevertheless , I love Great Maeswood and it’s very colorful inhabitants and can’t wait for the next book.
March 16, 2025
Susanna has been holding things together for her idiot father and lazy brother. Thank goodness it’s her turn to be the main character.
She met the MMc, Dr. Samuel Brougden years ago in London, when he kindly taught a 14 years old girl backgammon after her first grown up dinner party. She thought of him ever since. Years later, he arrives in her little village as the new doctor and she goes for it (no timid miss here!).
Samuel has been through A LOT since that meeting years ago. His wife died, he was accused of murdering her, and his father-in-law took their child. While establishing himself, he realizes that something odd is happening at his office - there are a bunch of children living there and an apparent smuggling operation running out of the cellar.
On top of all this, two women die a day apart, one being Susanna’s step mother. The investigators that are in all of these books go to work while still investigating the larger mysteries of the series.
This one was so satisfying, but there are some dark parts here. TW for incest.
She met the MMc, Dr. Samuel Brougden years ago in London, when he kindly taught a 14 years old girl backgammon after her first grown up dinner party. She thought of him ever since. Years later, he arrives in her little village as the new doctor and she goes for it (no timid miss here!).
Samuel has been through A LOT since that meeting years ago. His wife died, he was accused of murdering her, and his father-in-law took their child. While establishing himself, he realizes that something odd is happening at his office - there are a bunch of children living there and an apparent smuggling operation running out of the cellar.
On top of all this, two women die a day apart, one being Susanna’s step mother. The investigators that are in all of these books go to work while still investigating the larger mysteries of the series.
This one was so satisfying, but there are some dark parts here. TW for incest.
March 21, 2025
These flawed characters are hard to get used to. I’m so judgy. Susannah has been one of my favorite characters in the series. She usually seems so level headed and practical but as soon as B shows up she is determined to marry him The relationship between Susannah and Broughton seems flimsy at best. She is in love from one encounter with him 12 years ago. He just wants a wife…any will do (as long as she has no passion). This story has more to do with B’s past and the mystery it holds. There is also a smaller mystery for Edgerton to solve in this book. There are so many running mysteries going on I’m getting confused. (But I did read Kingswood’s series out of order so that probably doesn’t help.) The twist in the story of B’s past is so disturbing. I feel like it was glossed over. Maybe there wasn’t much they could have done back then. ? I also thought I liked the squire but I’m back and forth with him. I can’t tell if he is sincere.
Love the Beasleys. Want to hear more about Cass and Truman.
Love the Beasleys. Want to hear more about Cass and Truman.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 3, 2023
This book is a snoozer. No more Mary Kingswood for me.
June 23, 2021
Mary kingswood's books have all the right ingredients. They have interesting appealing, characters, they have plots that have the right balance between the interactions of characters and mysteries to solve. It is great fun to revisit characters from previous books in the series. I finish one of her books and I'm ready for the next one immediately. I also like how her series are more than a trio and that there's a thread to follow from the start clear through to the resolution at the end in the last book. However, the mystery never overshadows the people which in my mind are most important. There's an appealing flow and pacing that's just helps you sail through the books far too quickly. That's only a complaint because I enjoy the book so much I don't want them to end.
March 22, 2022
4.25 stars
June 15, 2021
Enjoyable and well put together. 3.5* rounded up.
For me the Strangers series is Mary Kingswood's best yet. I like my books to be stand alone and this one is. Like the other series this one has a mystery (or two) running through each book but I am not finding it disruptive like in other series.
This story was straight forward and while nothing too surprising occurs I still enjoyed the journey. Susannah Winslade is a lovely straight forward woman in her mid twenties. She manages her father's large household and takes life as it comes. She is the antithesis to every TSTL heroine out there. The new Dr. Broughton turns out to be someone who she met briefly before and when she meets him again it flusters her. I really liked them together. He has some rather odd and even objectionable ideas but at heart is a kind and patient man. I liked how he grew throughout the book and how he came to see her beauty.
For me the Strangers series is Mary Kingswood's best yet. I like my books to be stand alone and this one is. Like the other series this one has a mystery (or two) running through each book but I am not finding it disruptive like in other series.
This story was straight forward and while nothing too surprising occurs I still enjoyed the journey. Susannah Winslade is a lovely straight forward woman in her mid twenties. She manages her father's large household and takes life as it comes. She is the antithesis to every TSTL heroine out there. The new Dr. Broughton turns out to be someone who she met briefly before and when she meets him again it flusters her. I really liked them together. He has some rather odd and even objectionable ideas but at heart is a kind and patient man. I liked how he grew throughout the book and how he came to see her beauty.
September 29, 2021
Better characters than book #2, but not by a lot, and some interesting mysteries. My problem was that most of the tension in the story hinges on the hero refusing to discuss the big mystery in his life, that will eventually destroy him. Even to the people closest to him, who have proven their ability to be loyal and discrete. That behavior greatly lowered my opinion of his intelligence, and made it hard to believe in the growth of relationships with everyone around him.
June 26, 2022
As described by author: This is a complete story with a happy ever after. Book 3 of a 6 book series. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.
I picked up this book as a freebie listed on Bookbub one day. And for some strange reason, I decided to try it, letting my Kindle read it to me. I don't "read" books often, preferring audio.
I've now discovered a new author. Her characters are varied, her books well-plotted with a richness of world-building that is clearly built on deep knowledge of the times she writes about. I discovered I had four other of her books that I had picked up free at one time or another. After reading them, I discovered that by joining her reading list, I could get a free novella prequel/book .5 from each of her series and did so. After reading Stranger at the Parsonage, the prequel to this book's series, I decided to go ahead and read the entire series before moving onto the next prequel/series.
In other words, I quite like this author and her books. Oh, almost forgot to mention, her books are all available through Kindle Unlimited, a program on Amazon where you can pay a bit >$10 per month and read as many books as you want. No contract. That's what I did because I seem to be zipping through these fast enough to save some money. If not, I'd buy them to read them. And for the record, authors love for you to read their books via Kindle Unlimited because they get paid per page read. They don't earn more than if you bought their book, but enough to make it worth being in the program. All my books are in KU now, too.
I picked up this book as a freebie listed on Bookbub one day. And for some strange reason, I decided to try it, letting my Kindle read it to me. I don't "read" books often, preferring audio.
I've now discovered a new author. Her characters are varied, her books well-plotted with a richness of world-building that is clearly built on deep knowledge of the times she writes about. I discovered I had four other of her books that I had picked up free at one time or another. After reading them, I discovered that by joining her reading list, I could get a free novella prequel/book .5 from each of her series and did so. After reading Stranger at the Parsonage, the prequel to this book's series, I decided to go ahead and read the entire series before moving onto the next prequel/series.
In other words, I quite like this author and her books. Oh, almost forgot to mention, her books are all available through Kindle Unlimited, a program on Amazon where you can pay a bit >$10 per month and read as many books as you want. No contract. That's what I did because I seem to be zipping through these fast enough to save some money. If not, I'd buy them to read them. And for the record, authors love for you to read their books via Kindle Unlimited because they get paid per page read. They don't earn more than if you bought their book, but enough to make it worth being in the program. All my books are in KU now, too.
July 4, 2021
When I started reading this book, I was so engaged I struggled to put it down. I have read the other books of this series; this one is my favorite "Stranger" book. It is obvious that mysteries lurk behind the surface of the characters and their histories which would require the investigative team of Willerton-Forbes and Captain Edgerton, et al...which is usually entertaining and revelatory.
I took to Susannah right away, her humility and dedication to her family and friends have placed her in a subservient role as the daughter of the Squire; yet she remains steady and committed to her duties. So, her sudden flight of fancy over a romanticized ideal of a man she met some 12 years earlier, surprised me.
The new local physician seems very professional, competent, compassionate and gentlemanly; but he has quirky ideas and convictions. Sure enough, Susannah and the new doc are drawn together and within the first 30 percent of the book...so what is going to go wrong to sabatoge this romance?
Susannah's relationship with Cass Saxby shines throughout the story, with the kind of friendship everyone should have with at least one other person...being vulnerable, honest and devoted to hoping for the best for another is encouraging.
The story involves the usual underhanded schemes to be uncovered, but this one has some dark and sinister themes that I found too unsavory to be smoothed-over in a happily-ever-after ending. Although "happily ever after" endings are part of why I love Mary Kingswood's novels.
It has funny moments, sad and heart rending moments, frustrating moments... it's a good read.
I took to Susannah right away, her humility and dedication to her family and friends have placed her in a subservient role as the daughter of the Squire; yet she remains steady and committed to her duties. So, her sudden flight of fancy over a romanticized ideal of a man she met some 12 years earlier, surprised me.
The new local physician seems very professional, competent, compassionate and gentlemanly; but he has quirky ideas and convictions. Sure enough, Susannah and the new doc are drawn together and within the first 30 percent of the book...so what is going to go wrong to sabatoge this romance?
Susannah's relationship with Cass Saxby shines throughout the story, with the kind of friendship everyone should have with at least one other person...being vulnerable, honest and devoted to hoping for the best for another is encouraging.
The story involves the usual underhanded schemes to be uncovered, but this one has some dark and sinister themes that I found too unsavory to be smoothed-over in a happily-ever-after ending. Although "happily ever after" endings are part of why I love Mary Kingswood's novels.
It has funny moments, sad and heart rending moments, frustrating moments... it's a good read.
August 24, 2021
At the end of the first half I thought it to be a 5 stars read - the story was authentical, the characters - real and lovable. Then some minor details (or not that ‘minor’ or ‘details’) made me doubt it and here we are, 2-3 stars for the second half, 4 stars in general. First af all, I cannot think highly of a woman who, being aware of the fact that her recent crush was tried for murder, does not try to get all the information in her hands before she supports him. I mean, convicted does not mean a criminal but you should at least try to understand the situation you are at before choosing sides. Second, I did not believe his reasoning behind keeping silent. I would have bought it if the murderer had been his daughter, but the reasons we were given? That he was bound by his word as a doctor, son-in-law, husband? Come on. You may indicate you were at your patient without naming it, that is not breaking the word. Not serious enough for me. Now, and this is the third, how about love of the father who does not fight for his child? Just whines about it and cannot talk about it, does not try to change anything even though he feels something is not right eith his father in law. Hmmm. How about a man, who specialises in psychotherapy, namely, listens to aaaallll kind of women about their lives but simply can not grasp that a woman can be considered equal to a man in her feelings and passions? And thinks that a passionate kiss that was not finished by the slap to mans face means the woman kissed is likely a whore? Then those circus elements, just come on. I rolled my eyes too many times for my liking at the end. So yes, it could have been way better but I’ve read far worse too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2021
I received a pre-release (ARC) copy of this book for review.
The third of six books in the Strangers series, this one focuses on Susannah “Sue” Winslade, who many believe to be on the shelf, a spinster, or simply too busy raising her half siblings, without dowry, and not pretty enough to catch a suitors eye. Honestly she sounds like most women, fed up with the folderol and just trying to make it work.
But a new Doctor, the titular stranger, who has come to take over the practice of the aging Dr. Beasley might just be the man to turn a woman’s thoughts towards matrimony. There’s just the little problem of some things in his past, which fill the majority of the book.
In the background we have, of course, the rest of the host of characters from earlier books in the series as well as our three investigators from the Silver Lining Mysteries series. Keep an eye on Cass’s situation as I’m sure there’s more to come there, as well as that ‘bawdy house’ manager…
HEA, light kissing, some disparaging remarks about passionate women.
Trigger Warnings:
Discussion of incest
Alludes/discusses Suicide via medicine
Death/murder
Pregnancy
The third of six books in the Strangers series, this one focuses on Susannah “Sue” Winslade, who many believe to be on the shelf, a spinster, or simply too busy raising her half siblings, without dowry, and not pretty enough to catch a suitors eye. Honestly she sounds like most women, fed up with the folderol and just trying to make it work.
But a new Doctor, the titular stranger, who has come to take over the practice of the aging Dr. Beasley might just be the man to turn a woman’s thoughts towards matrimony. There’s just the little problem of some things in his past, which fill the majority of the book.
In the background we have, of course, the rest of the host of characters from earlier books in the series as well as our three investigators from the Silver Lining Mysteries series. Keep an eye on Cass’s situation as I’m sure there’s more to come there, as well as that ‘bawdy house’ manager…
HEA, light kissing, some disparaging remarks about passionate women.
Trigger Warnings:
Discussion of incest
Alludes/discusses Suicide via medicine
Death/murder
Pregnancy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2023
I keep reading the Mary Kingswood books and saying, I should write a review! Of course, don't start with this one. I actually recommend that you go to her web page and then start reading the series in the order they are meant to be read. Although most of her books would be fine as a stand alone, and any of her series would also be fine read by itself.
However, each of the series has some crossover - how I do love crossover! - and characters one loved as a main character in their own love story now show up as a side character in the other series. It is a feeling akin to seeing a friend unexpectedly, thoroughly delightful! Like the Easter Eggs at the end of a movie, or a cameo of a character in a TV show to clue one in how the universes fit together.
In addition, the plots are intricate and most of the characters are lovable. Highly highly recommended to those who are a fan of the Regency romance. Happy endings and all that. No sexual descriptions beyond kissing, as well.
However, each of the series has some crossover - how I do love crossover! - and characters one loved as a main character in their own love story now show up as a side character in the other series. It is a feeling akin to seeing a friend unexpectedly, thoroughly delightful! Like the Easter Eggs at the end of a movie, or a cameo of a character in a TV show to clue one in how the universes fit together.
In addition, the plots are intricate and most of the characters are lovable. Highly highly recommended to those who are a fan of the Regency romance. Happy endings and all that. No sexual descriptions beyond kissing, as well.
June 2, 2021
Book 3 of 6 in Mary Kingswood’s Strangers series. This book is about the smart, practical Susanna Winslade and the handsome new doctor in town, Samuel Broughton. I enjoyed this excellently written romance between Susanna and Samuel. There are many twists and turns throughout along with several surprises, including murder and betrayals.
I must say Jeffrey Rycroft is one of the most annoying characters Kingswood has ever written but I do love Broughton’s mischievous Scot valet, Mac!
I loved seeing so much of Captain Edgerton, Willerton-Forbes and Neste along with an appearance by Lucy Edgerton.
The romance/engagement may be a bit unusual but it turns out very well indeed. There are so many questions still to be answered that I am eager to read the rest of the series. This was another classic Kingswood story. Well worth reading!
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.
I must say Jeffrey Rycroft is one of the most annoying characters Kingswood has ever written but I do love Broughton’s mischievous Scot valet, Mac!
I loved seeing so much of Captain Edgerton, Willerton-Forbes and Neste along with an appearance by Lucy Edgerton.
The romance/engagement may be a bit unusual but it turns out very well indeed. There are so many questions still to be answered that I am eager to read the rest of the series. This was another classic Kingswood story. Well worth reading!
I received an ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review with my honest opinion.
June 4, 2022
A Great HEA
I liked the main characters who acted realistically as mature, loving adults. Samuel was very guarded and fearful, but as the story unfolds, all makes sense. Loved Susannah, her insights and adaptability made me envious! Her father was a weak and selfish character, such is life.
This is a clean romance with occasional kissing but I recommend this to older teens and adults because references are made to sexual abuse (none described) and it is really a pastor the plotline. Not much literature references this sad reality but it is certain no generation is free from the evil selfishness of a perpetrator.
Though abuse is involved in the novel, it does not dominate the story and Mary Kingswood leaves her readers satisfied that all ends well. For readers wanting more than a quick, fluffy read, I highly recommend this book that offers mystery, romance, hope and what society should look like around us.
I liked the main characters who acted realistically as mature, loving adults. Samuel was very guarded and fearful, but as the story unfolds, all makes sense. Loved Susannah, her insights and adaptability made me envious! Her father was a weak and selfish character, such is life.
This is a clean romance with occasional kissing but I recommend this to older teens and adults because references are made to sexual abuse (none described) and it is really a pastor the plotline. Not much literature references this sad reality but it is certain no generation is free from the evil selfishness of a perpetrator.
Though abuse is involved in the novel, it does not dominate the story and Mary Kingswood leaves her readers satisfied that all ends well. For readers wanting more than a quick, fluffy read, I highly recommend this book that offers mystery, romance, hope and what society should look like around us.
March 5, 2023
This was a good read, pleasant and enjoyable. I read a ton of historical romance and this was a good addition. Characters were likable and plot was decent. Length of the book was a bit more than what I would prefer but manageable. All in all a pleasant clean read, but not something that would necessarily encourage me to pick up entire series from the author. That happens when all the side characters get enough build up too, which I didnt see happen here.
June 14, 2021
Another stranger, another marriage
I was so delighted to read Stranger at the Villa, that I read it in one day! Now, I am forced to await the next part of the series. Susannah Winslade has been such a calm, strong character in the previous books that I am so glad to read the story of her happiness. She certainly deserves it.
There are mysteries in the novel ranging from a disappearing uncle, hidden wine, a lost child, and unexpected deaths. I am not content with the lack of closure of one of these deaths. I have my eye upon someone as a suspect.
Thank you, Mary Kingswood, for another wonderful collection of characters, and for a peek at Lucy Audley and Mrs. Edgerton. It was so good to !earn more of the Beasley's life. They are both so kind and good that I look for them to be rewarded in a future book.
I was so delighted to read Stranger at the Villa, that I read it in one day! Now, I am forced to await the next part of the series. Susannah Winslade has been such a calm, strong character in the previous books that I am so glad to read the story of her happiness. She certainly deserves it.
There are mysteries in the novel ranging from a disappearing uncle, hidden wine, a lost child, and unexpected deaths. I am not content with the lack of closure of one of these deaths. I have my eye upon someone as a suspect.
Thank you, Mary Kingswood, for another wonderful collection of characters, and for a peek at Lucy Audley and Mrs. Edgerton. It was so good to !earn more of the Beasley's life. They are both so kind and good that I look for them to be rewarded in a future book.
October 3, 2021
Another Excellent Read
Another well written and gritty story. Again the book cover is different and lovely, but yet again we have a weak hero. The handsome physician Samuel Broughton, a favourite with the ladies but when push comes to shove he crumbles and accepts the inevitable with out question. He looses his daughter and had it not been for the heroine Susannah Winslade and the investigators Willerton-Forbes, Captain Edgerton, and Mr Chandry, Dr Broughton would have become a drunken sop. There were a couple of plots to this story as well as the goings on in the village and it amazes me that Mary handles all the tooing and froing beautifully. I most certainly recommend this story and if the series or the writer is unknown to you I would recommend that you take a look at Mary's books.
Another well written and gritty story. Again the book cover is different and lovely, but yet again we have a weak hero. The handsome physician Samuel Broughton, a favourite with the ladies but when push comes to shove he crumbles and accepts the inevitable with out question. He looses his daughter and had it not been for the heroine Susannah Winslade and the investigators Willerton-Forbes, Captain Edgerton, and Mr Chandry, Dr Broughton would have become a drunken sop. There were a couple of plots to this story as well as the goings on in the village and it amazes me that Mary handles all the tooing and froing beautifully. I most certainly recommend this story and if the series or the writer is unknown to you I would recommend that you take a look at Mary's books.
July 11, 2021
Excellent
I’ve read pretty much everything Mary Kingswood has written and I have also read a substantial amount of historical era fiction by other authors. While I wouldn’t put MK on the same level as Jane Austen, I’d say that the intelligence of her writing is pretty darn close. The stories are interesting, the main characters are intelligent and believable, and the pacing is superb. Her secondary characters are well developed enough that they are more than window dressing by adding texture and depth to the story. I also like the number of recurring characters that have been a part of other stories. That is long-term world building.
Bottom line: I will read anything this lady writes.
I’ve read pretty much everything Mary Kingswood has written and I have also read a substantial amount of historical era fiction by other authors. While I wouldn’t put MK on the same level as Jane Austen, I’d say that the intelligence of her writing is pretty darn close. The stories are interesting, the main characters are intelligent and believable, and the pacing is superb. Her secondary characters are well developed enough that they are more than window dressing by adding texture and depth to the story. I also like the number of recurring characters that have been a part of other stories. That is long-term world building.
Bottom line: I will read anything this lady writes.
August 16, 2021
A perfect match!
Twenty-six year old Susannah has a busy life filled with caring for her ailing step mother, her younger brothers and sisters, and her father who hasn't managed their family funds well. Frugal living is second nature to her, yet her attitude and perspective have remained happy and practical. Church and the two card games each week are her only real social escapes. She's looking forward to meeting Dr. Parish's new partner who should be arriving soon. When he arrives, she's shocked to see that the one man she's dreamed of since their one meeting in London, is the new physician! But he doesn't recognize her.
Such an enjoyable story with marvelous characters you've grown to know in other books of this collection. I've really enjoyed each one.
Twenty-six year old Susannah has a busy life filled with caring for her ailing step mother, her younger brothers and sisters, and her father who hasn't managed their family funds well. Frugal living is second nature to her, yet her attitude and perspective have remained happy and practical. Church and the two card games each week are her only real social escapes. She's looking forward to meeting Dr. Parish's new partner who should be arriving soon. When he arrives, she's shocked to see that the one man she's dreamed of since their one meeting in London, is the new physician! But he doesn't recognize her.
Such an enjoyable story with marvelous characters you've grown to know in other books of this collection. I've really enjoyed each one.
June 3, 2021
When I read a new book by Mary Kingswood, it is as if I am returning to a much-loved, familiar place where I meet old friends and make new ones.
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC of "Stranger at the Villa". I enjoyed the book so much, I had difficulty in putting it down. As with all of Mary Kingswood's books, this is no mere romance, and the story has its own unique element of mystery. Something else I really appreciate is her attention to detail with regard to the language and spelling she uses. I find anachronisms in speech and spelling so distracting, and I never have to stop and wonder if that was really the way people spoke in Regency times when I read one of Mary's books.
I had the privilege of receiving an ARC of "Stranger at the Villa". I enjoyed the book so much, I had difficulty in putting it down. As with all of Mary Kingswood's books, this is no mere romance, and the story has its own unique element of mystery. Something else I really appreciate is her attention to detail with regard to the language and spelling she uses. I find anachronisms in speech and spelling so distracting, and I never have to stop and wonder if that was really the way people spoke in Regency times when I read one of Mary's books.
June 14, 2021
Number 3 in this series is not as good as her previous ones. Susannah Winslade is waiting, waiting for the man she can love whole-heartedly, similar to the man she met on a visit to London when she was only 14, who had dark blond hair, taught her to play backgammon, who smiled at her, who talked to her and treated her as a person. When Dr. Broughton comes to town to take up his place as the local physician, she is amazed to realize he is the same man but tormented by the death of his wife and the loss of his daughter. There is a murder mystery but nothing is really settled. I did not like this one very much.
June 28, 2021
Equal parts romance, mystery, and a dead rat!
I am enjoying this series of strangers, greatly. Think it's my fave series of Mary Kingswood yet! I love the romance that's not contrived or interrupted by stupidity. I'm enjoying all the different bits of mysteries to be solved. I especially love the sprinkling of humor as the characters reveal their quirks, family games, and adventures. As I read each story, my understanding of the neighborhood grows and I eagerly await the next installment to see who's doing what... I have thoughts about what may come, can't wait to see if I'm right or waaaaay off base.
I am enjoying this series of strangers, greatly. Think it's my fave series of Mary Kingswood yet! I love the romance that's not contrived or interrupted by stupidity. I'm enjoying all the different bits of mysteries to be solved. I especially love the sprinkling of humor as the characters reveal their quirks, family games, and adventures. As I read each story, my understanding of the neighborhood grows and I eagerly await the next installment to see who's doing what... I have thoughts about what may come, can't wait to see if I'm right or waaaaay off base.
September 25, 2022
Great mystery, clean romance
This is so well written! I've read one of Ms Kingswood's books before, this ine being written before another mystery which is mentioned here. I love the detectives, as they're very colorful & so different but get along amazingly well. They solved at least 2 mysteries in this book. The romance was good also, filled with twists & turns. There WAS one mystery never solved..Cass's lukewarm romance with the pastor..I was sure he was a bad guy..?.. The ending is so good in more than one way, but I won't spoil it for ya'll. You'll just have to read it. (Smile)
This is so well written! I've read one of Ms Kingswood's books before, this ine being written before another mystery which is mentioned here. I love the detectives, as they're very colorful & so different but get along amazingly well. They solved at least 2 mysteries in this book. The romance was good also, filled with twists & turns. There WAS one mystery never solved..Cass's lukewarm romance with the pastor..I was sure he was a bad guy..?.. The ending is so good in more than one way, but I won't spoil it for ya'll. You'll just have to read it. (Smile)
September 14, 2023
horrifying
This mystery is so twisted and disturbing that afterward you feel sick to your stomach and wish you never read it. Even weirder that the characters aren’t more horrified by it. And they spend all this time building up who the murderer might be but at the end it’s just kind of like “we think it’s probably this guy and maybe he did it like this”; kinda lame.
Also, lots of contradictions.
Anyways, I’m surprised she wrote something this gross. Her target audience is people who want “drawing room, not bedroom”, so why she thinks that type of audience would want the evilest of sexual plots is beyond me.
This mystery is so twisted and disturbing that afterward you feel sick to your stomach and wish you never read it. Even weirder that the characters aren’t more horrified by it. And they spend all this time building up who the murderer might be but at the end it’s just kind of like “we think it’s probably this guy and maybe he did it like this”; kinda lame.
Also, lots of contradictions.
Anyways, I’m surprised she wrote something this gross. Her target audience is people who want “drawing room, not bedroom”, so why she thinks that type of audience would want the evilest of sexual plots is beyond me.
April 6, 2024
This one was really good!! Much more depth and intrigue! I loved the characters! The mystery was good and continues for Mr. Truman. Some red herrings! I wish it was longer. It could have kept going, but was wrapped up with a bow instead. At least it was a good bow! The romance was beautiful! Definitely thought squire killed his wife. There were lots of little signs pointing that way, including his change in moods. Finally found out where squire and Lord Saxby went on Tuesdays! Although, they barely mentioned it. So there’s one mystery solved. Wish we could have much more from this set of character focus though. Hopefully there will be lots of them in the next books!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2021
A 4.75 I would say. As usual a completely fantastic read from Mary Kingswood. I feel like this series has the most well-fleshed put, real characters of any of her series (though I adore all her books). I really loved Susannah and how steadfast and honest she was. It was lovely seeing Samuel blossom under her love. I'm also enjoying all the mysteries strewn throughout. The major villain/conflict was heartbreaking. All in all, a really excellent read. This series would make a really great TV series I think.
September 12, 2021
Spinster what a dreaded term to call a person. All to often a female becomes of age without marrying and gets "put on the shelf" as unwanted. He life then is delegated to being a companion, a governess, a teacher or another profession. decided appropriate for females. Men were not so shackled by titles they might be rogues, scoundrels or just bachelors. Sue was content to run her fathers manor while her stepmother was ill from have too many children too fast and getting consumption. New doctor in town has come to take care and Sue is completely enthralled.
May 26, 2022
This book was very good. I think the main characters were both interesting and the author always does a great job of making her readers care about the characters. I really liked the mysteries that had to be solved in this book. I also like the recurring characters of Willerton-Forbes, Captain Edgerton, Michael Chandry and Mr. Neate. These characters play in integral part in each of the books in that they help to solve the mystery, but they are not the focus of the book.
I find these books to always be interesting from the first page to the last.
I find these books to always be interesting from the first page to the last.
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