It's upstairs vs downstairs, with a twist in this delightful story of star-crossed lovers Josie and Will. Former socialite *Go-Go Jo* aka Lady Josephine has turned her back on her proper English upbringing to dance to her own beat and this sweet romance has her pitted against a seemingly stuffy, propriety-seeking Lord who is trying to prove himself worthy of his recently inherited title and social standing. The story unfolds with gentle humour and a lovely sympathy for Jo's rebellion against the rigidity of uppercrust society. I was really touched by the scene where Jo's little daughter Hattie says she wishes that her mum was more like the conventional mum's of her classmates. The story is a little like the plot and back story of Gilmore Girls, but Fiona makes it fresh and original with her distinct voice and lovely sense of whimsy. Shortlisted for the RNA's Romance Prize, the judges had this to say about Josie and Will's story:
"English Lord, Ordinary Lady by Fiona Harper, is all about family manipulation and finding out who, deep down, you really are. The heroine's relationship with her small daughter is particularly beautifully portrayed, and this well-crafted novel is a lovely read with both humour and sadness."
If you've got the time, check out this link to Fiona's blog where you can read about the inspiration for the setting of this story which was based on the stunning Penshurst Place in Kent. She also describes the cottage and grounds of the estate and in a subsequent blog post fills us in on the music that inspired the wonderful garden scene of Will and Josie's first kiss.....heaven!
Jayne
Community Manager
"We cannot really love anybody with whom we never laugh"—Agnes Repplier
