ASIN: B00SJS8P52
Because her parents don’t support her decision, Ivy Davis leaves home in search of fame as a singer. Handicapped by stage fright, Ivy’s dreams are far beyond her reach, leaving her in desperate need of a job and a safe place to live. When she sees an advert for a governess, she immediately attempts to secure the position, only to find out she’s shown up at the wrong address.
Trying hard to raise his cousin’s infant daughter after her death, August Avery is in desperate need of some help. Seeing Ivy’s mistake as his blessing, he offers her a position as his nursemaid. Not wanting to return home a failure, she immediately accepts, although she has no experience with a child Elsie’s age.
As Ivy attempts to bond with her new charge, her charms draw in her new master as well, leaving both wondering if there could ever really be anything more between them without Ivy having to sacrifice her dream.
Holt has created charming and endearing characters with such uniqueness that readers can’t help but fall in love with them. Even Jamieson, the footman, crept his way into my heart. Ivy’s boldness has a ladylike freshness that left me smiling and rooting for her. August’s relaxed behavior towards his staff, and him taking on an infant that wasn’t his only added more depth to his alpha-male character. Nice twist, and Kudos to Holt.
The pace is good, the dialogue engaging, and the descriptions vivid. This story of mismatched love was a pleasant read and a rare find. I was totally charmed.
Rating system: Cups of coffee – the less the better
0: You won’t need any coffee to stay up for this one. It’s intriguing enough all on its own.
1: You’ll stay up late, but not all night. Brew one cup.
2: You’ll read as long as you’re not tired. If you are, two cups should do the trick.
3: I hope you got plenty of rest; you’ll need it, or at least 3 cups.
4: If the cable goes out, read the book. It’s better than nothing, I guess. Oh, don’t forget your brew!
5: Find anything else to do- it doesn’t matter what it is. Don’t waste your coffee. Too much caffeine is bad for you.
My rating: 0 cups of coffee