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The Trouble With Mrs Montgomery Hurst
1841. Mr Montgomery Hurst of Radcliffe Park is getting married. To the great consternation of the county of Wickenshire, he is not marrying the daughter of an earl, but an impoverished widow with three children, whom nobody has ever heard of. Society is both appalled and intrigued.
Nobody is more curious than Mr Ashpoint, a wealthy local brewer, who had hoped Mr Hurst might choose his daughter, Amelia, as his bride. Only, Amelia has no interest in marrying Mr Hurst - or indeed in marrying at all.
Mr Hurst's marriage kicks off a series of events, as it becomes clear his business is everyone's but his own...
Nobody is more curious than Mr Ashpoint, a wealthy local brewer, who had hoped Mr Hurst might choose his daughter, Amelia, as his bride. Only, Amelia has no interest in marrying Mr Hurst - or indeed in marrying at all.
Mr Hurst's marriage kicks off a series of events, as it becomes clear his business is everyone's but his own...
439 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 18, 2024
About the author
Katie Lumsden
2 books3,479 followersKatie Lumsden read Jane Eyre at the age of thirteen and never looked back. She spent her teenage years devouring nineteenth century literature, reading every Dickens, Brontë, Gaskell, Austen and Hardy novel she could find. She has a degree in English literature and history from the University of Durham and an MA in creative writing from Bath Spa University. Her short stories have been shortlisted for the London Short Story Prize and the Bridport Prize, and have been published in various literary magazines.
Katie's Youtube channel, Books and Things, has more than 29,000 subscribers. She lives in London and works as an editor.
Her debut novel, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, was shortlisted for the HWA Debut Crown Award.
Katie's Youtube channel, Books and Things, has more than 29,000 subscribers. She lives in London and works as an editor.
Her debut novel, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, was shortlisted for the HWA Debut Crown Award.
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August 8, 2024Listened to my own novel on audiobook. Surreal and glorious experience. Personally, I think *maybe* it’s quite good?
Want to read
April 13, 2024A 320 page comedy of manners set in an imaginary rural village - complete with map? Yes, please!
Except, this book doesn't currently have a US publisher. So I was thrilled to find out that Blackwell's Bookshop ships to the US for free. I've preordered this book, which is something I never do, and even got it on sale a bit. Thanks, Blackwell's.
Here's some of the blurb:
"To the great consternation of Wickenshire, a community that thrives on gossip, the county's most eligible bachelor is about to marry not only an unknown stranger - but a widow with three children, odd manners and no ancestry to speak of. Society is appalled and intrigued.
Meanwhile, Amelia Ashpoint has no interest in marriage at all. But in this town, it is clear that nobody's business is their own. And while society has high expectations for Amelia, her heart is drawing her in a very different direction . . .
A love letter to Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, The Trouble with Mrs. Montgomery Hurst is a witty novel of manners and gossip, class and family, scandal and romance."
I've seen the covers, which are on Blackwell's site, too. And they are lovely. I'm so excited!
Except, this book doesn't currently have a US publisher. So I was thrilled to find out that Blackwell's Bookshop ships to the US for free. I've preordered this book, which is something I never do, and even got it on sale a bit. Thanks, Blackwell's.
Here's some of the blurb:
"To the great consternation of Wickenshire, a community that thrives on gossip, the county's most eligible bachelor is about to marry not only an unknown stranger - but a widow with three children, odd manners and no ancestry to speak of. Society is appalled and intrigued.
Meanwhile, Amelia Ashpoint has no interest in marriage at all. But in this town, it is clear that nobody's business is their own. And while society has high expectations for Amelia, her heart is drawing her in a very different direction . . .
A love letter to Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskell, The Trouble with Mrs. Montgomery Hurst is a witty novel of manners and gossip, class and family, scandal and romance."
I've seen the covers, which are on Blackwell's site, too. And they are lovely. I'm so excited!
September 10, 2024
Jane Austen meets Charles Dickens meets Sarah Waters
July 18, 2024
Katie Lumsden’s debut novel, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, was a love letter to the Victorian sensation novel and one of the best books I read last year. The Trouble with Mrs Montgomery Hurst is another fantastic historical novel, but this time she has turned her talents to a country house novel, reminiscent of Austen or Gaskell, and this will also be one of my top books of the year.
At the centre of this wonderful comedy of manners, is the Ashpoint family, who occupy a prominent position in the fictional county of Wickenshire due to their wealth rather than social status. Mr Ashpoint is a wealthy, widowed brewer with four children, two of which, Amelia and Diggory, are of marriageable age. Mr Ashpoint is most concerned with the marriage prospects of his daughter Amelia, who he hopes will marry the respectable Mr Hurst, from one of Wickenshire’s oldest, most established families, and thus establish the Ashpoints as a family of rank as well as fortune.
However, Amelia has declared she will never marry and harbours a secret desire to become a writer along with a romantic secret that no-one suspects. She is, therefore, quite delighted when Mr Hurst unexpectedly announces his engagement to a woman that no-one has heard of or met, and a widow with three children! Gossip abounds as the townsfolk try to find out everything they can about his bride-to-be and the most prominent families vie to be the first ones to call on the new Mrs. Hurst when she arrives. The new Mrs. Hurst, however, is rather closed and cautious when she arrives and would prefer to be left alone with her husband and children, which sets tongues wagging even more!
This book was highly enjoyable and for all of the reasons that I also love reading novelists such as Austen and Gaskell. Wonderful characters and several plot lines which kept me wanting one more chapter! The social commentary on marriage, gender and class was deftly woven throughout the book. The various families that make up the cast of characters are from different social classes. Some characters are from old, established upper class families - the landed gentry - who have rank and statues, but are no longer as wealthy as some of the families who come from working classes but have made a lot of money ‘in trade’. We follow numerous characters from different backgrounds and genders as they navigate the strict etiquette and societal beliefs in their search for marriage or love or both, making for engaging plot lines and allowing the author to explore various social barriers of the period, such as class, illegitimacy, gender and sexuality. The book also explores the plight of the poorer members of the community, particularly those at the mercy of unscrupulous landlords or working in service or factories.
Whilst there are serious themes within the book, they are explored with a light enough touch that the book was also a delightful, escapist read. Both humorous and engaging, it was a real page-turner which I could not put down towards the end. Highly recommended! Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and, if you couldn’t tell, I loved it!
At the centre of this wonderful comedy of manners, is the Ashpoint family, who occupy a prominent position in the fictional county of Wickenshire due to their wealth rather than social status. Mr Ashpoint is a wealthy, widowed brewer with four children, two of which, Amelia and Diggory, are of marriageable age. Mr Ashpoint is most concerned with the marriage prospects of his daughter Amelia, who he hopes will marry the respectable Mr Hurst, from one of Wickenshire’s oldest, most established families, and thus establish the Ashpoints as a family of rank as well as fortune.
However, Amelia has declared she will never marry and harbours a secret desire to become a writer along with a romantic secret that no-one suspects. She is, therefore, quite delighted when Mr Hurst unexpectedly announces his engagement to a woman that no-one has heard of or met, and a widow with three children! Gossip abounds as the townsfolk try to find out everything they can about his bride-to-be and the most prominent families vie to be the first ones to call on the new Mrs. Hurst when she arrives. The new Mrs. Hurst, however, is rather closed and cautious when she arrives and would prefer to be left alone with her husband and children, which sets tongues wagging even more!
This book was highly enjoyable and for all of the reasons that I also love reading novelists such as Austen and Gaskell. Wonderful characters and several plot lines which kept me wanting one more chapter! The social commentary on marriage, gender and class was deftly woven throughout the book. The various families that make up the cast of characters are from different social classes. Some characters are from old, established upper class families - the landed gentry - who have rank and statues, but are no longer as wealthy as some of the families who come from working classes but have made a lot of money ‘in trade’. We follow numerous characters from different backgrounds and genders as they navigate the strict etiquette and societal beliefs in their search for marriage or love or both, making for engaging plot lines and allowing the author to explore various social barriers of the period, such as class, illegitimacy, gender and sexuality. The book also explores the plight of the poorer members of the community, particularly those at the mercy of unscrupulous landlords or working in service or factories.
Whilst there are serious themes within the book, they are explored with a light enough touch that the book was also a delightful, escapist read. Both humorous and engaging, it was a real page-turner which I could not put down towards the end. Highly recommended! Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and, if you couldn’t tell, I loved it!
August 11, 2024
Oh boy, hate to be the first (?) person to leave a negative review, and on top of that for a book I was looking forward to reading. I've been watching Katie's channel for years and years, and had a good time with her debut novel last year, but her second unfortunately fell flat for me.
What started out as a pretty entertaining, character-driven story set in a gossip-mongering community in the early 1840s turned into a book where I was never sure why I should care about anyone or anything that was happening to them. For starters, we have almost ten different POVs, only two of which were from characters I liked. The writing did feel quite Victorian/Regency-esque, but I couldn't help being bored by the repetitive plot and drama. Sometimes, I got the impression that the dialogue would be better suited to a movie than a novel, because some scenes felt dissonant when it came to the description-dialogue ratio and the way both were written. Add to that the fact that I don't usually read these kinds of books and you can understand my frustration with this one.
What started out as a pretty entertaining, character-driven story set in a gossip-mongering community in the early 1840s turned into a book where I was never sure why I should care about anyone or anything that was happening to them. For starters, we have almost ten different POVs, only two of which were from characters I liked. The writing did feel quite Victorian/Regency-esque, but I couldn't help being bored by the repetitive plot and drama. Sometimes, I got the impression that the dialogue would be better suited to a movie than a novel, because some scenes felt dissonant when it came to the description-dialogue ratio and the way both were written. Add to that the fact that I don't usually read these kinds of books and you can understand my frustration with this one.
August 1, 2024
Wonderful! A lovesong to Regency and Victorian literature. The mystery of Mrs Hurst's history provides the fulcrum of the plot, but really we delve into the lives of many inhabitants of Wickenshire.
Varied are their problems and hopes, but there are themes of class and social stigma throughout, especially the difference between the reality of people and the labels society might use for them.
These you will recognise from the books which influenced the novel, and it's really fun to pick out the little nods to Austen, Trollope, Gaskell, etc. I'm sure many passed me by too. The author's knowledge of not only the books of the time but also the actual history really comes across, it feels very authentic.
This was quite chunky, but it has short chapters and multiple compelling storylines so I absolutely zipped through it. I would love a true Victorian chunkster of 800-1000 pages next, please!
Varied are their problems and hopes, but there are themes of class and social stigma throughout, especially the difference between the reality of people and the labels society might use for them.
These you will recognise from the books which influenced the novel, and it's really fun to pick out the little nods to Austen, Trollope, Gaskell, etc. I'm sure many passed me by too. The author's knowledge of not only the books of the time but also the actual history really comes across, it feels very authentic.
This was quite chunky, but it has short chapters and multiple compelling storylines so I absolutely zipped through it. I would love a true Victorian chunkster of 800-1000 pages next, please!
April 28, 2024
A thoroughly enjoyable read. Set in 1841 and following several families in Wickenshire, England. Reputations are gained and lost. Marriages are bargained for. Rumours are rife. The cast of characters is an eclectic but entertaining mix. I read it all in one sitting and could happily have read more.
June 5, 2024
Katie Lumsden has written a novel in the style of Jane Austen, but reworks the themes of female identity and belonging for a modern audience. I found some of the compromises reached to accommodate what was considered to be scandalous behaviour 200 years ago a little unlikely, but the ending works well and doesn’t rely on marriage to offer Amelia the prospect of personal fulfilment.
August 24, 2024
The county towns of Wickenshire are all astir with the news that Mr. Montgomery Hurst is going to be married to an unknown stranger who is also a widow with three children! Who is she? Where does she come from? What is the mystery/secret that seems to be linked to them? is she even respectable?
Set in 1841, it is right at the start of the Victorian Era where society is changing. Industry has risen and people from lower classes have made lots of money in business so there is much social climbing. Many of the industrialists having more money than the aristocracy.
There are 4 main families in Wickenshire:
The Ashpoints - New money. Mr Ashpoint is a successful brewer. Very rich. Father of Diggory and Amelia (and others).
The Earl and Countess of Wickford - First family of the county. Parents of Salbridge and Lady Rose. Very respectable name, limited money.
Mr. and Mrs Elton - Squire and lady of Ludwell - parents of Augustus (MP living in London) and the beautiful and accomplished Felicia. very respectable family but again limited money.
The Hursts - Squire of Radcliffe and his new wife and her 3 children from a previous marriage
Also you have:
Sir Frederick Hammersmith - Baronet and squire. Has money and position. Single lives with his elderly mother.
Major Charles Alderton - a retired army major, independent means, rumoured to be illegitimate son of a duke.
also several other business and professional families.
It's a sort of comedy of manners about class, money, morality, gender norms, expectations, and lots of gossip. What is more important love, money or status?
I loved this book so much that I couldn't wait to finish it to find out what happens to all the characters. It was such a fun read with lots of emotions. I laughed and smiled a lot but also was irritated with some of the characters. They all felt real. I love Victorian literature and in particular those that involve communities with large amounts of characters. I love to see how everyone interact and whether they adhere to the social norms and morals of those times. I love when books look at what really is moral? What is good and bad? Who decides? This book gives off a feel of Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell (2 of my favourite authors) and Anthony Trollope. (The first chapter reminded me of the dance at Meryton in Pride and Prejudice with all the gossip about newcomers and who would marry who), there was also a feel of Wives and daughters by Gaskell and only yesterday, I finished reading an Anthony Trollope book which I won't name as it led me to guess part of the secret in this book.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes Victorian literature and especially Gaskell, Austen and Trollope. Thank you to #netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy.
Set in 1841, it is right at the start of the Victorian Era where society is changing. Industry has risen and people from lower classes have made lots of money in business so there is much social climbing. Many of the industrialists having more money than the aristocracy.
There are 4 main families in Wickenshire:
The Ashpoints - New money. Mr Ashpoint is a successful brewer. Very rich. Father of Diggory and Amelia (and others).
The Earl and Countess of Wickford - First family of the county. Parents of Salbridge and Lady Rose. Very respectable name, limited money.
Mr. and Mrs Elton - Squire and lady of Ludwell - parents of Augustus (MP living in London) and the beautiful and accomplished Felicia. very respectable family but again limited money.
The Hursts - Squire of Radcliffe and his new wife and her 3 children from a previous marriage
Also you have:
Sir Frederick Hammersmith - Baronet and squire. Has money and position. Single lives with his elderly mother.
Major Charles Alderton - a retired army major, independent means, rumoured to be illegitimate son of a duke.
also several other business and professional families.
It's a sort of comedy of manners about class, money, morality, gender norms, expectations, and lots of gossip. What is more important love, money or status?
I loved this book so much that I couldn't wait to finish it to find out what happens to all the characters. It was such a fun read with lots of emotions. I laughed and smiled a lot but also was irritated with some of the characters. They all felt real. I love Victorian literature and in particular those that involve communities with large amounts of characters. I love to see how everyone interact and whether they adhere to the social norms and morals of those times. I love when books look at what really is moral? What is good and bad? Who decides? This book gives off a feel of Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell (2 of my favourite authors) and Anthony Trollope. (The first chapter reminded me of the dance at Meryton in Pride and Prejudice with all the gossip about newcomers and who would marry who), there was also a feel of Wives and daughters by Gaskell and only yesterday, I finished reading an Anthony Trollope book which I won't name as it led me to guess part of the secret in this book.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone who likes Victorian literature and especially Gaskell, Austen and Trollope. Thank you to #netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced copy.
July 22, 2024
In a small, close-knit community in 1841, the arrival of a newcomer can really cause a stir – and that’s what happens when Mr Montgomery Hurst brings his new wife home to Wickenshire. Mr Hurst was one of the county’s most eligible bachelors, so everyone is curious to see what sort of woman has tempted him to marry at last. The new Mrs Hurst, however – a widow in her thirties with three small children – is not what they are expecting. It seems to the people of Wickenshire that she is not quite respectable and gossip quickly begins to spread as they speculate about her past and her previous marriage.
One person who doesn’t care too much about the gossip is Amelia Ashpoint. Amelia’s father owns a brewery, making the Ashpoints one of the richest families in Wickenshire, yet they are still not regarded as equals by the older families whose wealth and titles have been passed down through the generations. At twenty-three, Amelia is expected to marry soon, but what she really wants is a career as a writer and the freedom to be with the person she truly loves. Meanwhile, Felicia Elton, ‘the great beauty of Wickenshire’, is also under pressure to find a rich husband. With her looks and accomplishments, it shouldn’t be a difficult task, but for some reason nobody seems interested in marrying Felicia and she’s beginning to think she’ll have to settle for the first man who asks.
In The Trouble with Mrs Montgomery Hurst, Katie Lumsden tells the stories of Amelia Ashpoint, Felicia Elton and the Hursts, as well as several of their other friends and neighbours, all of whom occupy different positions on the social ladder. At the top there’s the Earl and Countess of Wickford and their dissolute son, Lord Salbridge; lower down, the town families who have made their money through trade and industry; and lower still, people such as Mr Lonsdale, the foreman at the Ashpoint brewery, and Monsieur Brisset, Felicia’s piano teacher. With so many unwritten rules of society and boundaries that can’t be crossed, it seems that nobody in Wickenshire is free to live and love as they choose and it’s easy to see why someone who doesn’t conform, like Mrs Hurst, can become the subject of rumour and slander.
Although the book is set in the early 1840s, at the start of the Victorian era, it has the feel of a Regency novel and there’s an obvious Jane Austen influence in both the writing style and the plot. The worldbuilding is strengthened by the inclusion of a map at the beginning and a list of characters giving their age, address and occupation. It was all so immersive that I really didn’t want to have to leave Wickenshire behind when I reached the end of the book! Because it’s a modern novel, though, Lumsden is able to explore topics that an author like Austen couldn’t (or at least not so explicitly). For example, one of the main characters is a lesbian and her story really helped me to appreciate how difficult it must have been to have no romantic interest in men in a world where it seemed that a young woman’s whole purpose in life was to find a husband. However, her story didn’t go quite the way I had predicted – and neither did the stories of several of the other characters. Some got happy endings, some didn’t and others just had to make the best of things, which I found very realistic.
In case you can’t tell, I loved this book and I think I preferred it to Katie Lumsden’s previous one, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, which borrows from the Brontës rather than Austen. I would like a sequel so we can catch up with the residents of Wickenshire again and see how they are getting on, but I suspect this is probably intended as a standalone. Either way, I’ll be looking out for whatever Katie Lumsden writes next.
One person who doesn’t care too much about the gossip is Amelia Ashpoint. Amelia’s father owns a brewery, making the Ashpoints one of the richest families in Wickenshire, yet they are still not regarded as equals by the older families whose wealth and titles have been passed down through the generations. At twenty-three, Amelia is expected to marry soon, but what she really wants is a career as a writer and the freedom to be with the person she truly loves. Meanwhile, Felicia Elton, ‘the great beauty of Wickenshire’, is also under pressure to find a rich husband. With her looks and accomplishments, it shouldn’t be a difficult task, but for some reason nobody seems interested in marrying Felicia and she’s beginning to think she’ll have to settle for the first man who asks.
In The Trouble with Mrs Montgomery Hurst, Katie Lumsden tells the stories of Amelia Ashpoint, Felicia Elton and the Hursts, as well as several of their other friends and neighbours, all of whom occupy different positions on the social ladder. At the top there’s the Earl and Countess of Wickford and their dissolute son, Lord Salbridge; lower down, the town families who have made their money through trade and industry; and lower still, people such as Mr Lonsdale, the foreman at the Ashpoint brewery, and Monsieur Brisset, Felicia’s piano teacher. With so many unwritten rules of society and boundaries that can’t be crossed, it seems that nobody in Wickenshire is free to live and love as they choose and it’s easy to see why someone who doesn’t conform, like Mrs Hurst, can become the subject of rumour and slander.
Although the book is set in the early 1840s, at the start of the Victorian era, it has the feel of a Regency novel and there’s an obvious Jane Austen influence in both the writing style and the plot. The worldbuilding is strengthened by the inclusion of a map at the beginning and a list of characters giving their age, address and occupation. It was all so immersive that I really didn’t want to have to leave Wickenshire behind when I reached the end of the book! Because it’s a modern novel, though, Lumsden is able to explore topics that an author like Austen couldn’t (or at least not so explicitly). For example, one of the main characters is a lesbian and her story really helped me to appreciate how difficult it must have been to have no romantic interest in men in a world where it seemed that a young woman’s whole purpose in life was to find a husband. However, her story didn’t go quite the way I had predicted – and neither did the stories of several of the other characters. Some got happy endings, some didn’t and others just had to make the best of things, which I found very realistic.
In case you can’t tell, I loved this book and I think I preferred it to Katie Lumsden’s previous one, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, which borrows from the Brontës rather than Austen. I would like a sequel so we can catch up with the residents of Wickenshire again and see how they are getting on, but I suspect this is probably intended as a standalone. Either way, I’ll be looking out for whatever Katie Lumsden writes next.
May 28, 2024
With its witty writing, memorable characters, and meticulous plot, this is definitely a future classic.
July 16, 2024
Witty, fun, gossipy and addictive, The Trouble with Mrs Montgomery Hurst is a glorious Regency comedy of manners. Katie Lumsden’s sensational debut, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, was one of my top reads of last year so I was excited to dive into her sophomore novel. I went into it blind, expecting another Victorian gothic mystery, and was pleasantly surprised by this piece of Victorian uplit.
Set in the fictional county of Wickenshire in 1841, this is a story of family, romance, society, gossip and scandal. It follows Amelia, the eldest daughter of the wealthy Ashpoint family. Amelia is not your average 19th century heroine and has vowed never to take a husband. Despite this, her father hopes to secure her marriage to Mr. Montgomery Hurst, but his hopes are quashed when Mr. Hurst announces his engagement at the first ball of the marriage season. The gossip fires are ablaze as all of Society wonders who his mystery bride-to-be could be. Tongues wag further when it is revealed that not only is the new Mrs. Hurst a stranger, but also a widow and mother of three young children. The scandal! How could a gentleman choose such an unsuitable bride? And what will become of Miss Ashpoint now?
Katie Lumsden has knocked it out of the park once again with this magnificent tale. She brings her fictional world to life in vivid technicolour with her exquisite period prose, cleverly choreographed plots and ebullient characters. I lost myself completely in this book, captivated by the people and their lives. It is lively and upbeat, but also touches on serious topics from that time such as sexuality, gender and illegitimacy. These are all handled sensitively but honestly, woven into the narrative seamlessly alongside the secrets, drama, romance and laughter. It gave me wholesome Bridgerton vibes and feels ripe for a sequel.
I was captivated by the book's cast of quirky, compelling characters. Its heroine, Amelia Ashpoint, is not your average 19th century heroine, and that is why I loved her so much. Spiky, headstrong and plain-speaking, she prefers reading books to dancing, doesn’t fit into the strict gender roles available to her, vows never to take a husband, and is struggling to find her place. But she is kind hearted, likeable, and so fun to read. The eponymous Mrs. Hurst was another fascinating character. Only we know very little about her and are given only breadcrumbs of information about her history and character, keeping us guessing what she might be hiding. I also really liked Diggory, Amelia’s older brother. There were also some great stuck up and unlikeable characters who added to the drama and authenticity.
So if you’re looking for a different kind of lighthearted and escapist read this summer, then look no further than this charming, elegant and sassy novel.
Set in the fictional county of Wickenshire in 1841, this is a story of family, romance, society, gossip and scandal. It follows Amelia, the eldest daughter of the wealthy Ashpoint family. Amelia is not your average 19th century heroine and has vowed never to take a husband. Despite this, her father hopes to secure her marriage to Mr. Montgomery Hurst, but his hopes are quashed when Mr. Hurst announces his engagement at the first ball of the marriage season. The gossip fires are ablaze as all of Society wonders who his mystery bride-to-be could be. Tongues wag further when it is revealed that not only is the new Mrs. Hurst a stranger, but also a widow and mother of three young children. The scandal! How could a gentleman choose such an unsuitable bride? And what will become of Miss Ashpoint now?
Katie Lumsden has knocked it out of the park once again with this magnificent tale. She brings her fictional world to life in vivid technicolour with her exquisite period prose, cleverly choreographed plots and ebullient characters. I lost myself completely in this book, captivated by the people and their lives. It is lively and upbeat, but also touches on serious topics from that time such as sexuality, gender and illegitimacy. These are all handled sensitively but honestly, woven into the narrative seamlessly alongside the secrets, drama, romance and laughter. It gave me wholesome Bridgerton vibes and feels ripe for a sequel.
I was captivated by the book's cast of quirky, compelling characters. Its heroine, Amelia Ashpoint, is not your average 19th century heroine, and that is why I loved her so much. Spiky, headstrong and plain-speaking, she prefers reading books to dancing, doesn’t fit into the strict gender roles available to her, vows never to take a husband, and is struggling to find her place. But she is kind hearted, likeable, and so fun to read. The eponymous Mrs. Hurst was another fascinating character. Only we know very little about her and are given only breadcrumbs of information about her history and character, keeping us guessing what she might be hiding. I also really liked Diggory, Amelia’s older brother. There were also some great stuck up and unlikeable characters who added to the drama and authenticity.
So if you’re looking for a different kind of lighthearted and escapist read this summer, then look no further than this charming, elegant and sassy novel.
October 15, 2024
This isn’t a bad book but it’s a tad predictable but without the wit and style of Austen to help it through. It was hard to stop myself comparing the characters to which Austen or Gaskell character they had been based on. Having said all that it was an easy enjoyable-ish read which is what I need right now and what I expected. So not desperate but I wouldn’t be running around recommending it either.
August 8, 2024
Loved this book. Made my keep shelf!
August 17, 2024
The county of Wickenshire is socially divided between County and Town. The minor nobility look down on the new money and the new money is unsure on how to proceed. Amelia's father is brewery owner, probably the richest man in the area, and he wants Amelia to marry well. Amelia doesn't want to marry, her love is completely different. Her brother Diggory is in love with Lady Rose, but he's been warned off by her brother, he's 'not suitable'. Then Mr Hurst turns up with a mysterious new bride, a older widow with children.
This is a pleasant enough comedy of manners which does a good job of playing homage to Austen and Gaskell, however it is a lot lighter in weight and a little more knowing. I couldn't really get the balance with the modern mores on display.
This is a pleasant enough comedy of manners which does a good job of playing homage to Austen and Gaskell, however it is a lot lighter in weight and a little more knowing. I couldn't really get the balance with the modern mores on display.
August 24, 2024
An absolute joy - I never wanted it to end. Keeping everything crossed for more from Wickenshire in future!
October 6, 2024
An entertaining homage to the gossipy characters of Cranford and Jane Austen. Took me halfway through the story to keep track of all of the characters but once there, I was already invested in the town’s gossip.
August 2, 2024
Really three and a half. I enjoyed this novel set in 1841 and based around a variety of characters in the mould of Middlemarch/Cranford and most of Jane Austen`s novels. The language and even the chapter headings are spot on for a nineteenth century story. It is a warm, witty story about manners, etiquette and gossip with unexpected romantic attachments thrown in. A delight to read.
September 28, 2024
2.25 ~ this has really taken me by surprise how little I enjoyed it. The prose was easy to read and decently written… but dull.
It was fine but dull, being the motto of my reading experience.
This is more to my taste, but I wish the prose was more Victorian. It was just kinda formal in quite a basic historical romance sort of way. I want gorgeously rambling prose. But I understand that that was a expectation that only I may have had.
To me, it was very lifeless, the characters unengaging and plot, plotless. I assumed early on that it was maybe going to be a romance with Mrs Hurst and that would have been wayyyy better. (And the complexities of Amelia and her girlfriend Clara with that!! Ughhhh). (Like this was no queer enough for my liking. Commit to the bit girlie).
It all was very flat. As other reviewers have mentioned, good people were good, and bad people were bad. Only really Clara and maybe Felicia had some nuance. Apart from a few ideas here and there, nothing thematic or emotional interested me at all.
But, every single romance story line in this was not engaging to me. Characters didn’t interact enough and I feel like I was told a lot of things, rather than shown. Also, most of the plot were these romance storylines, and so it was very tiring to me.
(SPOILER) Also it ended with the “main” couple, Clara and Amelia, not ending up together, which is fine I suppose, but not interestingly enough written. The themes could have been pushed. I feel like I should have been devastated they didn’t end up together, and I wasn’t. (Just go watch A Portrait of a Lady on Fire).
When you comp your book to Austen, Gaskell, Trollope, it made me super excited. You’re never going to capture what they captured so well of course, but this wasn’t even a *scratch* of anything of theirs. Modern books do have many positives tho, none of which were utilised here (except from some queer rep!!)
ALSO, can we talk about the queerness in this book having no presence on the blurb or the exterior of the book?????? Personally, I think that’s a very odd marketing decision. Amelia, the mc, being queer is not a spoiler and is spelled out in early chapters, so why is that not mentioned in the blurb? I feel like lots of people who would pick this up would miss this?
The only thing I can say in the marketing’s defence is that Amelia’s romance isn’t that important. Tbf nothing feels important in this book but that’s beside the point. Even the books tag line and TITLE doesn’t really make much sense to me. Why why why??? Wasn’t the “trouble with Mrs M Hurst” Amelia falling for a married woman???? The tagline is “why did he choose [marry] her?” which sounds like Amelia saying, “why did he have to choose her?” Not what was actually released about the Hurst’s which was a bit underwhelming.
I think I should really stop reading anything by this author, clearly we just don’t suit! A real, real shame because I do see so much promise here. (And I occasionally watch her YT channel, and she clearly loves Victorian literature!!)
…
Honestly just go read Cranford, Wives & Daughters or watch Portrait of a Lady on Fire.
It was fine but dull, being the motto of my reading experience.
This is more to my taste, but I wish the prose was more Victorian. It was just kinda formal in quite a basic historical romance sort of way. I want gorgeously rambling prose. But I understand that that was a expectation that only I may have had.
To me, it was very lifeless, the characters unengaging and plot, plotless. I assumed early on that it was maybe going to be a romance with Mrs Hurst and that would have been wayyyy better. (And the complexities of Amelia and her girlfriend Clara with that!! Ughhhh). (Like this was no queer enough for my liking. Commit to the bit girlie).
It all was very flat. As other reviewers have mentioned, good people were good, and bad people were bad. Only really Clara and maybe Felicia had some nuance. Apart from a few ideas here and there, nothing thematic or emotional interested me at all.
But, every single romance story line in this was not engaging to me. Characters didn’t interact enough and I feel like I was told a lot of things, rather than shown. Also, most of the plot were these romance storylines, and so it was very tiring to me.
(SPOILER) Also it ended with the “main” couple, Clara and Amelia, not ending up together, which is fine I suppose, but not interestingly enough written. The themes could have been pushed. I feel like I should have been devastated they didn’t end up together, and I wasn’t. (Just go watch A Portrait of a Lady on Fire).
When you comp your book to Austen, Gaskell, Trollope, it made me super excited. You’re never going to capture what they captured so well of course, but this wasn’t even a *scratch* of anything of theirs. Modern books do have many positives tho, none of which were utilised here (except from some queer rep!!)
ALSO, can we talk about the queerness in this book having no presence on the blurb or the exterior of the book?????? Personally, I think that’s a very odd marketing decision. Amelia, the mc, being queer is not a spoiler and is spelled out in early chapters, so why is that not mentioned in the blurb? I feel like lots of people who would pick this up would miss this?
The only thing I can say in the marketing’s defence is that Amelia’s romance isn’t that important. Tbf nothing feels important in this book but that’s beside the point. Even the books tag line and TITLE doesn’t really make much sense to me. Why why why??? Wasn’t the “trouble with Mrs M Hurst” Amelia falling for a married woman???? The tagline is “why did he choose [marry] her?” which sounds like Amelia saying, “why did he have to choose her?” Not what was actually released about the Hurst’s which was a bit underwhelming.
I think I should really stop reading anything by this author, clearly we just don’t suit! A real, real shame because I do see so much promise here. (And I occasionally watch her YT channel, and she clearly loves Victorian literature!!)
…
Honestly just go read Cranford, Wives & Daughters or watch Portrait of a Lady on Fire.
July 30, 2024
.4.5 of 5 stars
https://lynns-books.com/2024/07/30/re...
My Five Word TL:DR Review: A Love Letter to Austen
I really enjoyed this story. It manages to combine some more modern themes and sensibilities with a perfectly executed comedy of manners amidst a profusion of gossip and a splendour of bonnets and bickering.
The story is set in the fictional county of Wickenshire and revolves mostly around the exploits of a young woman called Amelia Ashpoint. As you would expect from a novel set in this period (late Regency/early Victorian) the more prominent families spend their time worrying about money, future prospects for their sons/daughters and keeping up appearances.
As the story begins we immediately discover that one of the more desirable bachelors of the neighbourhood is about to marry – and not to one of the local young ladies. Imagine the consternation when it’s discovered that this new lady has not only been previously married (shock, horror, *gasp*) but also has three children. The indignation is real!
Anyway, I’m not going to delve deeper into the plot. Suffice to say that there are enough twists and turns to this one to delight and perplex readers aplenty.
What I loved about this. Virtually everything to be honest. It’s really entertaining, the writing and pace are excellent, it feels like a period novel without being too fusty and it made me smile and sometimes cringe a little.
The characters are really well drawn. Amelia gave me Emma vibes with her constant interfering and usually ill conceived plots and statements. I don’t think she came across as nearly as witty as she and everyone else believed but even so I liked and was rooting for her. There are a collection of characters from Earls to brewery managers, all with their own motivations and the story really brought to life the strict etiquette of the period that was so very restraining whilst at the same time demonstrating how some of these norms were perhaps starting to relax a little.
I loved the country and Manor House setting, the insertion of many small dramas that kept the place alive with gossip and the constant behind doors attempts at match making. And this is all delivered alongside some much more weighty themes that are inserted with a wonderfully light touch.
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of manners. It’s a step away from the fantasy, horror and mystery that I often enjoy and was a lovely change of pace. Highly recommended for Austen lovers.
I received a copy through Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
My rating 4.5 beribboned stars
https://lynns-books.com/2024/07/30/re...
My Five Word TL:DR Review: A Love Letter to Austen
I really enjoyed this story. It manages to combine some more modern themes and sensibilities with a perfectly executed comedy of manners amidst a profusion of gossip and a splendour of bonnets and bickering.
The story is set in the fictional county of Wickenshire and revolves mostly around the exploits of a young woman called Amelia Ashpoint. As you would expect from a novel set in this period (late Regency/early Victorian) the more prominent families spend their time worrying about money, future prospects for their sons/daughters and keeping up appearances.
As the story begins we immediately discover that one of the more desirable bachelors of the neighbourhood is about to marry – and not to one of the local young ladies. Imagine the consternation when it’s discovered that this new lady has not only been previously married (shock, horror, *gasp*) but also has three children. The indignation is real!
Anyway, I’m not going to delve deeper into the plot. Suffice to say that there are enough twists and turns to this one to delight and perplex readers aplenty.
What I loved about this. Virtually everything to be honest. It’s really entertaining, the writing and pace are excellent, it feels like a period novel without being too fusty and it made me smile and sometimes cringe a little.
The characters are really well drawn. Amelia gave me Emma vibes with her constant interfering and usually ill conceived plots and statements. I don’t think she came across as nearly as witty as she and everyone else believed but even so I liked and was rooting for her. There are a collection of characters from Earls to brewery managers, all with their own motivations and the story really brought to life the strict etiquette of the period that was so very restraining whilst at the same time demonstrating how some of these norms were perhaps starting to relax a little.
I loved the country and Manor House setting, the insertion of many small dramas that kept the place alive with gossip and the constant behind doors attempts at match making. And this is all delivered alongside some much more weighty themes that are inserted with a wonderfully light touch.
I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of manners. It’s a step away from the fantasy, horror and mystery that I often enjoy and was a lovely change of pace. Highly recommended for Austen lovers.
I received a copy through Netgalley, courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
My rating 4.5 beribboned stars
July 31, 2024
1841. Welcome to Wickenshire and its society families, who love to concern themselves with the private business of their close neighbours, especially when it comes to marriage and money. The current hot topic is the marriage of Mr Hurst, who everyone expected to be asking for the hand of Miss Amelia Ashpoint - including her father.
Instead Mr Hurst does something very unexpected by marrying an impoverished widow with three young children, who definitely does not fit the neighbourhood gossips' idea of a suitable Wickenshire bride. However, Amelia is anything but disappointed, as she has no intention of marrying anyone...
Channelling her love of a rollicking classic tome, Katie Lumsden's second glorious book turns from the Gothic vibes of her debut, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, to celebrate a lighter shade of Victorian novel - with a modern twist.
The style is highly engaging. Lumsden fills her pages with romance, family foibles, the glamour of balls and entertainments, and all the gossip that comes with them. If you are a Jane Austen fan, as I am, you will find much to delight you in the interactions that go on in public and behind close doors. You will certainly recognise many of the sorts of characters that make up this sprawling cast, and the light touch of well-wielded wit and wisdom is pure Austen. For me, the Victorian loveliness of the setting also evokes the sweeping family epics of Elizabeth Gaskell, and at times, the humour and sharp social commentary of Anthony Trollope. All of which is rather wonderful.
Lumsden revels in dissecting what goes on beneath the surface of her characters' obsessions with money, class and the marriage market, especially when it comes to the secrets that almost everyone seems to have - secrets that they are not shy about engaging in a little deception to keep hidden. The bones of their dilemmas give her the fodder she needs to bring in more modern topics, such as sexuality, and I really enjoyed how she does this perfectly in keeping with the feel of the novel.
This was such fun, with just the right mix of charm, comedy, melancholy, and absurdity to make the pages fly. Fingers crossed for more Wickenshire from Katie Lumsden, as this kind of novel really suits her writing style.
Instead Mr Hurst does something very unexpected by marrying an impoverished widow with three young children, who definitely does not fit the neighbourhood gossips' idea of a suitable Wickenshire bride. However, Amelia is anything but disappointed, as she has no intention of marrying anyone...
Channelling her love of a rollicking classic tome, Katie Lumsden's second glorious book turns from the Gothic vibes of her debut, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, to celebrate a lighter shade of Victorian novel - with a modern twist.
The style is highly engaging. Lumsden fills her pages with romance, family foibles, the glamour of balls and entertainments, and all the gossip that comes with them. If you are a Jane Austen fan, as I am, you will find much to delight you in the interactions that go on in public and behind close doors. You will certainly recognise many of the sorts of characters that make up this sprawling cast, and the light touch of well-wielded wit and wisdom is pure Austen. For me, the Victorian loveliness of the setting also evokes the sweeping family epics of Elizabeth Gaskell, and at times, the humour and sharp social commentary of Anthony Trollope. All of which is rather wonderful.
Lumsden revels in dissecting what goes on beneath the surface of her characters' obsessions with money, class and the marriage market, especially when it comes to the secrets that almost everyone seems to have - secrets that they are not shy about engaging in a little deception to keep hidden. The bones of their dilemmas give her the fodder she needs to bring in more modern topics, such as sexuality, and I really enjoyed how she does this perfectly in keeping with the feel of the novel.
This was such fun, with just the right mix of charm, comedy, melancholy, and absurdity to make the pages fly. Fingers crossed for more Wickenshire from Katie Lumsden, as this kind of novel really suits her writing style.
May 24, 2024
It's the summer of 1841 in Wickenshire. Amelia Ashpoint is 23 and a misfit. She's the eldest child in a wealthy family, but that wealth came from the family's brewery, which makes them tradespeople and not part of 'society.' Her father, still bereft at the loss of his wife, wants to see her married and is pushing for a union with Mr. Montgomery Hurst, which neither of them is interested in. Amelia has a different partner--a relationship that is illegal--and a vocation that she must keep secret. Her whole life goes against the gender roles that define how she is to behave. As for Montgomery Hurst, he announces that he is to marry very soon. Tongues begin to wag as people try to determine who on earth his wife-to-be is. There is much consternation when it turns out she is a widow with three children! Why would the wealthy and privileged Montgomery Hurst choose such a woman to be his wife? Gossip, eavesdropping, malicious rumors, and outrage ensue.
Amelia struggles to find a place for herself in a world where she doesn't fit in. Mrs. Montgomery Hurst struggles to keep a big secret. People with a high position but no money try to basically sell their daughter to get their debts paid off. The daughter, Frederica, is an interesting character as she evolves throughout the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There are serious issues addressed, but in a very amusing way. I laughed out loud at times. Gender roles, social class (and how to define it), poverty, religion, and the masks we wear in public are all part of the story here. There are multiple story lines running through the book, but Lumsden beautifully weaves them together into a delightful narrative. I was eager to see what would happen to all of the characters. This book is a tribute to Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskelll, but with a modern twist. If you enjoy those authors, then I highly recommend this book to you!
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for a digital review copy.
Amelia struggles to find a place for herself in a world where she doesn't fit in. Mrs. Montgomery Hurst struggles to keep a big secret. People with a high position but no money try to basically sell their daughter to get their debts paid off. The daughter, Frederica, is an interesting character as she evolves throughout the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. There are serious issues addressed, but in a very amusing way. I laughed out loud at times. Gender roles, social class (and how to define it), poverty, religion, and the masks we wear in public are all part of the story here. There are multiple story lines running through the book, but Lumsden beautifully weaves them together into a delightful narrative. I was eager to see what would happen to all of the characters. This book is a tribute to Jane Austen and Elizabeth Gaskelll, but with a modern twist. If you enjoy those authors, then I highly recommend this book to you!
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for a digital review copy.
September 13, 2024
5 stars (I’d give 6 if I could)-
This is one of the best novels I’ve ever read in my life. I loved Katie’s first book, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, but this just affected me in a completely different way. The cast of characters was distinct and so sophisticatedly drawn. All of them felt very REAL, and they had motivations and struggles that rang very true.
The plotting is meticulous and brilliant. For a 450 page book, I thought every page was deserved, and I was never bored by any given character’s POV. Wickenshire feels like a real, breathing place and I sincerely hope Katie writes more novels in this setting.
The theme of gossip throughout this novel is explored with such care and nuance. The responsibilities of those with social status and/or wealth and their influence on the thoughts of those around them are massive.
This story also contains some of the most interesting and nuanced exploration of birth/rank as opposed to material wealth in this period. It reads so well to a modern audience. It simultaneously FEELS like a Victorian novel while also giving the reader the exact right amount of historical context to grasp the complexities that existed in Victorian society without having to come in to the novel knowing that background.
The ending is poignant and equally hopeful, celebratory, and devastating.
The Secrets of Hartwood Hall was fun, well written, and clever. This novel was all of those things with a degree of finesse and maturity that blew me away. The humor, the complex web of characters, and exploration of themes that would’ve been difficult to write about in 1841 make this a must read. It’s truly a shame that this didn’t get picked up by a US publisher.
This is one of the best novels I’ve ever read in my life. I loved Katie’s first book, The Secrets of Hartwood Hall, but this just affected me in a completely different way. The cast of characters was distinct and so sophisticatedly drawn. All of them felt very REAL, and they had motivations and struggles that rang very true.
The plotting is meticulous and brilliant. For a 450 page book, I thought every page was deserved, and I was never bored by any given character’s POV. Wickenshire feels like a real, breathing place and I sincerely hope Katie writes more novels in this setting.
The theme of gossip throughout this novel is explored with such care and nuance. The responsibilities of those with social status and/or wealth and their influence on the thoughts of those around them are massive.
This story also contains some of the most interesting and nuanced exploration of birth/rank as opposed to material wealth in this period. It reads so well to a modern audience. It simultaneously FEELS like a Victorian novel while also giving the reader the exact right amount of historical context to grasp the complexities that existed in Victorian society without having to come in to the novel knowing that background.
The ending is poignant and equally hopeful, celebratory, and devastating.
The Secrets of Hartwood Hall was fun, well written, and clever. This novel was all of those things with a degree of finesse and maturity that blew me away. The humor, the complex web of characters, and exploration of themes that would’ve been difficult to write about in 1841 make this a must read. It’s truly a shame that this didn’t get picked up by a US publisher.
August 20, 2024
The Trouble With Mrs Montgomery Hurst
by Katie Lumsden
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, General fiction (Adult), Historical Fiction
I like to dip into the past sometimes, enjoy reading stories where life is so totally different to now. This was a fun read. But it was about Amelia Ashpoint and some of the other characters as much as Mrs Montgomery Hurst.
I loved the disparate cast of characters, from Amelia and her family, Clara and her dad, looked down on as not quite socially acceptable, ditto Major Charles Alderton. And of course there are others who through no fault of anything other than being born in the wrong social group were destined to remain there, and seen as upstarts if they dared to look upwards...
It has that lovely gentle feel of a historical book, and does that social layering so expertly. No money but right social class, that's fine, pots of money but born to a lower class, seen as upstarts, ideas above their station etc. Its the part of history ( and even now) that fascinates me.
The story flows gently, but its not just Mrs Hurst that's the focus, but many of the other characters who feature in different ways. The portrayals were very vivid, I could feel the snobbery and arrogance of some people, the desire to fit in of Clara, the gossipy twittering of others, it brought out a typical village hierarchy.
I loved that it was so multi layered, so may different things going on. That kept the story interesting, intriguing and so readable.
Stars: Four, good story with lots of multi layers which I always enjoy.
ARC supplied by netgalley and publishers
by Katie Lumsden
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Romance, General fiction (Adult), Historical Fiction
I like to dip into the past sometimes, enjoy reading stories where life is so totally different to now. This was a fun read. But it was about Amelia Ashpoint and some of the other characters as much as Mrs Montgomery Hurst.
I loved the disparate cast of characters, from Amelia and her family, Clara and her dad, looked down on as not quite socially acceptable, ditto Major Charles Alderton. And of course there are others who through no fault of anything other than being born in the wrong social group were destined to remain there, and seen as upstarts if they dared to look upwards...
It has that lovely gentle feel of a historical book, and does that social layering so expertly. No money but right social class, that's fine, pots of money but born to a lower class, seen as upstarts, ideas above their station etc. Its the part of history ( and even now) that fascinates me.
The story flows gently, but its not just Mrs Hurst that's the focus, but many of the other characters who feature in different ways. The portrayals were very vivid, I could feel the snobbery and arrogance of some people, the desire to fit in of Clara, the gossipy twittering of others, it brought out a typical village hierarchy.
I loved that it was so multi layered, so may different things going on. That kept the story interesting, intriguing and so readable.
Stars: Four, good story with lots of multi layers which I always enjoy.
ARC supplied by netgalley and publishers
September 13, 2024
3.75 stars
This really hit a spot I sometimes look for, drama in a historical setting. In some ways, it reminded me of Bridgerton (the Netflix show, I won't be reading the books) and A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting. But this one did a better job in areas those didn't quite deliver, especially in explaining how society worked and what the rules were at the time.
I don’t usually care about diversity as a theme, but I think this book handled sexual diversity really well. It actually made me think about what Oscar Wilde went through just for being himself, which is a bit of a random connection, but it stuck with me.
The characters were well-developed, and I liked how the town’s community influenced the different social layers. The writing was solid, but not overly formal or “historical,” which was a good choice.
Something that confused me was the book length. On my e-reader, it said 200-something pages, but the hardcover is listed at 480 and the paperback at 320. It took me way longer to read than I’d expect from a 200-300 page book. The short chapters were a big help, and I never felt bored, but I did find myself moving through it at a snail's pace.
Overall, this was a good book for what it is. I can see fans of Victorian-era stories really enjoying it. For me, though, it didn’t quite have that wow-factor to hit a full four stars. I’ll think back on it fondly, but it’s not a standout.
This really hit a spot I sometimes look for, drama in a historical setting. In some ways, it reminded me of Bridgerton (the Netflix show, I won't be reading the books) and A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting. But this one did a better job in areas those didn't quite deliver, especially in explaining how society worked and what the rules were at the time.
I don’t usually care about diversity as a theme, but I think this book handled sexual diversity really well. It actually made me think about what Oscar Wilde went through just for being himself, which is a bit of a random connection, but it stuck with me.
The characters were well-developed, and I liked how the town’s community influenced the different social layers. The writing was solid, but not overly formal or “historical,” which was a good choice.
Something that confused me was the book length. On my e-reader, it said 200-something pages, but the hardcover is listed at 480 and the paperback at 320. It took me way longer to read than I’d expect from a 200-300 page book. The short chapters were a big help, and I never felt bored, but I did find myself moving through it at a snail's pace.
Overall, this was a good book for what it is. I can see fans of Victorian-era stories really enjoying it. For me, though, it didn’t quite have that wow-factor to hit a full four stars. I’ll think back on it fondly, but it’s not a standout.
August 12, 2024
💬 My Bookish Thoughts
After admiring the beautifully illustrated map of South West Wickenshire (I do love a map in a book!), we are introduced to 23-year-old Amelia Ashpoint at the start of the marriage season, as her family prepares for a grand ball.
This witty novel, set in the mid-19th century, is a delightful comedy of manners with everything you’d expect: sharp wit, class tension, scandal, gossip, and a fiercely independent female lead who challenges societal norms.
One of the joys of this book is uncovering the secrets nestled in the storyline. Katie Lumsden manages a large cast of characters with finesse, reminding me of Jane Austen’s work. I particularly appreciated the 'Dramatis Personae' at the beginning—a lifesaver for my menopause memory, thank you, Katie!
Amelia is a brilliantly crafted FMC—funny, independent, flawed, loyal, and wonderfully feisty. I’m already missing the townsfolk of Wickenshire and am eagerly hoping for more installments.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction, Charlotte Brontë, Jane Austen, or if you’re looking to fill the void Bridgerton has left, I highly recommend The Trouble With Mrs Montgomery Hurst.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Michael Joseph, and Penguin Random House for the gifted digital copy in exchange for an honest review. 🙏🏼
After admiring the beautifully illustrated map of South West Wickenshire (I do love a map in a book!), we are introduced to 23-year-old Amelia Ashpoint at the start of the marriage season, as her family prepares for a grand ball.
This witty novel, set in the mid-19th century, is a delightful comedy of manners with everything you’d expect: sharp wit, class tension, scandal, gossip, and a fiercely independent female lead who challenges societal norms.
One of the joys of this book is uncovering the secrets nestled in the storyline. Katie Lumsden manages a large cast of characters with finesse, reminding me of Jane Austen’s work. I particularly appreciated the 'Dramatis Personae' at the beginning—a lifesaver for my menopause memory, thank you, Katie!
Amelia is a brilliantly crafted FMC—funny, independent, flawed, loyal, and wonderfully feisty. I’m already missing the townsfolk of Wickenshire and am eagerly hoping for more installments.
If you’re a fan of historical fiction, Charlotte Brontë, Jane Austen, or if you’re looking to fill the void Bridgerton has left, I highly recommend The Trouble With Mrs Montgomery Hurst.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Penguin Michael Joseph, and Penguin Random House for the gifted digital copy in exchange for an honest review. 🙏🏼
September 4, 2024
This was perfect, I loved it so much and I already miss everyone in Wickenshire! The Trouble With Mrs Montgomery Hurst is genuinely funny and moving and gripping. Set in 1841, we follow a few months of lives of different people - of different age, sex and class - and it's simply superb. There's so much drama and gossip, but also heartbreak and joy. I enjoyed every second of it because the setting was just so good and all the characters - and there are a lot of them! - were just so vivid, they were all such individuals - even the smallest background characters, with real-life people's feelings and characteristics. It seriously read better than some of Jane Austen novels. The UK hardback is almost 500 pages long and frankly I could read another 500 and wouldn't get enough. I'll think fondly of Amelia and Clara, of Mrs Hurst, Diggory and Rose, the horrible Salbridge, of the entire character arc of Felicia and more.
This is definitely one of my favourite books of the year and it's such a different story and much, much better a book than the author's debut The Secrets of Hartwood Hall. Excellent historical fiction writing, insanely well-researched and written - I loved it!
This is definitely one of my favourite books of the year and it's such a different story and much, much better a book than the author's debut The Secrets of Hartwood Hall. Excellent historical fiction writing, insanely well-researched and written - I loved it!
July 7, 2024
I absolutely adored Katie’s debut novel (one of my favourite reads this year) so it was with huge excitement that I picked up her second book ‘The trouble with Mrs Montgomery Hurst’.
This book is set in Wickenshire, in 1841 and follows the loves and lives of the townsfolk there, both those who were born into riches and those who made their own fortune. The novel has a true Jane Austen vibe about it, which I loved and Katie’s writing is once again absolutely perfect for the period the story is set in. All the characters are wonderfully developed and Amelia Ashpoint provides us with some truly wonderful bookish moments I have to say. There are of course, as you would expect when I mentioned the Jane Austen vibe, love stories of all kinds, friendships, plenty of gossiping, matchmaking, obstacles to overcome, secrets to be uncovered and / or kept and the social expectations of that time period are beautifully woven into the book.
I devoured this book in just two days and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a historical fiction.
Thank you @netgalley and @michaeljbooks for the gifted copy.
This book is set in Wickenshire, in 1841 and follows the loves and lives of the townsfolk there, both those who were born into riches and those who made their own fortune. The novel has a true Jane Austen vibe about it, which I loved and Katie’s writing is once again absolutely perfect for the period the story is set in. All the characters are wonderfully developed and Amelia Ashpoint provides us with some truly wonderful bookish moments I have to say. There are of course, as you would expect when I mentioned the Jane Austen vibe, love stories of all kinds, friendships, plenty of gossiping, matchmaking, obstacles to overcome, secrets to be uncovered and / or kept and the social expectations of that time period are beautifully woven into the book.
I devoured this book in just two days and highly recommend it to anyone who loves a historical fiction.
Thank you @netgalley and @michaeljbooks for the gifted copy.
July 27, 2024
This has brought the author’s writing to its pinnacle. This is her forte and undoubtedly her way forward.
If I could give this book 100 stars I would!
We have a very Jane Austenesque plot but with an updated twist. I would not be telling the truth if I said the LGBTQ parts were completely comfortable to me. But I grew up accepting and approving of such relationships, but obviously had some lingering discomfort in reading about them.
Well, no longer. There is nuance and wisdom in all the relationships within the novel and I commend the author for bringing this all together.
Without meaning to disregard Hartwood Hall, this novel is simply on a different level.
Bravo Katie and looking forward to your future offerings.
(For reference, I have long been a subscriber of Katie’s YouTube Channel, but this does not influence how I have reviewed this novel. Indeed, I paid for it with my own money and was happy to do so).
If I could give this book 100 stars I would!
We have a very Jane Austenesque plot but with an updated twist. I would not be telling the truth if I said the LGBTQ parts were completely comfortable to me. But I grew up accepting and approving of such relationships, but obviously had some lingering discomfort in reading about them.
Well, no longer. There is nuance and wisdom in all the relationships within the novel and I commend the author for bringing this all together.
Without meaning to disregard Hartwood Hall, this novel is simply on a different level.
Bravo Katie and looking forward to your future offerings.
(For reference, I have long been a subscriber of Katie’s YouTube Channel, but this does not influence how I have reviewed this novel. Indeed, I paid for it with my own money and was happy to do so).
July 10, 2024
Katie Lumsden’s The Trouble with Mrs Montgomery Hurst is brimming with wit, charm, and social intrigue. Set in the summer of 1841, the novel captures the essence of Regency and Victorian-era manners and gossip.
Lumsden’s characters are vivid and intriguing. The novel’s rich descriptions transport readers to the lush settings of Wickenshire, evoking a desire to delve deeper into the historical backdrop. I armed myself with Google Images to really see what Lumsden had created. The range of personalities and convincing situations add depth to the narrative, making it a wholesome and meaningful read.
The novel’s engaging plot and well-drawn characters left me eager for more, hoping for follow-up books to continue their stories. This book is a must-read, promising a journey filled with heartbreak, hope, and the timeless dance of matchmaking and gossip.
Lumsden’s characters are vivid and intriguing. The novel’s rich descriptions transport readers to the lush settings of Wickenshire, evoking a desire to delve deeper into the historical backdrop. I armed myself with Google Images to really see what Lumsden had created. The range of personalities and convincing situations add depth to the narrative, making it a wholesome and meaningful read.
The novel’s engaging plot and well-drawn characters left me eager for more, hoping for follow-up books to continue their stories. This book is a must-read, promising a journey filled with heartbreak, hope, and the timeless dance of matchmaking and gossip.
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