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Regency Charades #1
A Feather to Fly With
In Regency England, young ladies make their fortune by marrying it. But Cleo Cooper has come to London with a different idea – she’s going to make her fortune by stealing it. Raised abroad by unconventional parents, Cleo has no use for the rules and strictures of the ton. She’ll pretend to fit in, but she has a secret scheme.
Arthur Ramsey, Duke of Winton, is in the market for a wife. He imagines a sweet, conformable young lady who will gracefully fill the role of Duchess, secure the succession with an heir, and not interfere with his scientific pursuits. That’s what he’s looking for – but what he finds is Cleo.
(Author's Note: A Feather To Fly With is a traditional Regency. If it were a movie, it would be rated PG, or even G.)
Arthur Ramsey, Duke of Winton, is in the market for a wife. He imagines a sweet, conformable young lady who will gracefully fill the role of Duchess, secure the succession with an heir, and not interfere with his scientific pursuits. That’s what he’s looking for – but what he finds is Cleo.
(Author's Note: A Feather To Fly With is a traditional Regency. If it were a movie, it would be rated PG, or even G.)
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 24, 2014
592 people are currently reading
449 people want to read
About the author
Joyce Harmon
13 books99 followersJoyce Harmon has been from one side of the galaxy to the other (slight exaggeration) and seen a lot of strange stuff (very true). Since retiring from the Navy, she has worked as a winery tour guide, a journalist for a local newspaper, selling collectibles on eBay, and making candles - and always, always, a writer. She shares her rural Virginia home with two haughty and indolent cats and one clever, busy dog, and is haunted by a noisy crowd of characters, all clamoring to be written down and set loose into the world. She accommodates them as quickly as she can. She is the author of the Passatonnack Winery mysteries, Died On The Vine and Bidding On Death. A Feather To Fly With is her first Regency romance, and she is currently working on a sequel.
Joyce blogs occasionally at http://joyceharmon.wordpress.com/ , mostly about her dog.
Joyce blogs occasionally at http://joyceharmon.wordpress.com/ , mostly about her dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 158 reviews
December 2, 2017
It's almost impossible to find a recently-written Regency that has the charm and innocence of those written in the 80s and 90s. How fortunate, then, that Harmon has managed to produce one written in 2014 that's equal to many of those by Barbara Metzger or Joan Smith. Not only that, but Harmon's funny moments don't become annoyingly madcap or hectic the way Metzger's often tend to.
This took some chapters in for me to really appreciate it. At first, the hero, Arthur Ramsay, Duke of Winton, seemed too beta, too innocent, too much of a scientific bent and too ignorant of the ways of society in the Upper Ten Thousand that I was afraid I wouldn't enjoy the story. But I persevered and was rewarded with a very good read that only became even better as the story progressed.
There's a mystery in this, two sweet romances, many endearing characters, excellent dialogue, understated humor and wit. It's well worth the read and I'm grateful to the fellow romance reader who recommended it to me. (Thanks, Rappleyea!)
Maybe it's a 4.5 star work but I couldn't bring myself to give it a full 5 stars. I guess my hesitation to do so is based on the slow start I had on the road to enjoying it. BTW, don't be expecting a completely realistic look at 19th century people of the peerage. This duke and his mother, for example, are way too nice to have ever existed in the rarefied ranks of dukes and duchesses, but, hey, it's just a story and a fun one at that.
This took some chapters in for me to really appreciate it. At first, the hero, Arthur Ramsay, Duke of Winton, seemed too beta, too innocent, too much of a scientific bent and too ignorant of the ways of society in the Upper Ten Thousand that I was afraid I wouldn't enjoy the story. But I persevered and was rewarded with a very good read that only became even better as the story progressed.
There's a mystery in this, two sweet romances, many endearing characters, excellent dialogue, understated humor and wit. It's well worth the read and I'm grateful to the fellow romance reader who recommended it to me. (Thanks, Rappleyea!)
Maybe it's a 4.5 star work but I couldn't bring myself to give it a full 5 stars. I guess my hesitation to do so is based on the slow start I had on the road to enjoying it. BTW, don't be expecting a completely realistic look at 19th century people of the peerage. This duke and his mother, for example, are way too nice to have ever existed in the rarefied ranks of dukes and duchesses, but, hey, it's just a story and a fun one at that.
August 27, 2019
Arthur Ramsey, Sixth Duke of Winton has come to London at his mother's urging to choose a wife. With his brother Charles currently serving with the army on the Continent, it's up to Arthur to secure the succession. Arthur is perplexed by the task at hand. He's a scholar, a scientist and has no knowledge of women or of society so he enlists the aid of his best friend, Justin Amesbury to help him find a wife. Justin introduces Arthur to his friend Felicity Harwell, the reigning toast of the town. Felicity is unexceptional and would be a lovely Duchess. She isn't even affected by her successful Season! Poor Arthur barely knows how to make headway with Felicity but when he happens to meet a plain young woman in a less genteel part of town while out walking he finds himself behaving gallantly and conversing with the mysterious young woman. Cleo Cooper has come to London with her little brother and their entourage. After living abroad their whole lives with their artist father and adoring mother, London is new and strange. Together with their footman (really an actor) they plan a grand scheme to establish Han as a country gentleman, beginning with reestablishing relations with their estranged aunt. When the Countess launches Cleo into Society, the results are unexpected for all parties involved.
This is a fun, light older style Regency. At first I was confused because the author chose a slightly unconventional way of telling the story. She also chose to introduce new characters at the end of the novel leading to a few sequels. It is unfair to compare other authors to the incomparable Georgette Heyer so what I can say about Joyce Harmon is that she is a good author in her own right and hardly borrows from Heyer at all. While the writing isn't as sophisticated or witty as Heyer, it is better than many Regency set books I have read. The tone is light, even when confronted with villainous characters and the misunderstanding plot is mercifully very short and wrapped up quickly. I really appreciated that and enjoyed the adventure plot. There are some good historical details, setting the year at 1814. I was hoping for an author's note about Uranus but I looked it up. I'm a nerd but not nerdy enough to understand astronomy.
This story features some very unconventional characters NOT pulled from the Heyer canon! I absolutely love Arthur! He is adorable and so sweet! He's a super nerd and while I don't pretend to understand astronomy or any sort of science or mathematics, I was interested in his scientific observations and would like to have conversations with him. It makes a refreshing change to have a nerdy hero who isn't into women AT ALL! There's zero sensuality or sexual chemistry in this novel. There are gentlemen and ladies who are friendly and admire each other's temperaments and minds. Felicity is also a nice change from the usual spoiled beauty. She is unaffected by her success as the Toast of the Season. She remains sweet, kind and sensible. At first I was wary because she's blond and beautiful and has pushy parents, I was soon relieved to discover I really like Felicity and would be friends with her. I'm not sure I would be friends with Cleo. Setting aside social snobbery, Cleo is a cool cucumber. She is eminently practical, proud of her vagabond upbringing, sensible - all things I admire, but there's something about her that's off-putting for me. Her plan turned out to be a lot less dreadful than I expected.
The secondary characters spring to life and are all quite enjoyable, except of course the villain. Arthur's mother is loving and wants her son to be happy with his chosen bride, whoever she is. The Duchess wants a daughter-in-law who can not only step into her shoes but also make her son happy and that's rare in this type of novel. I think she is a great mother. Felicity's parents are a little vulgar and pushy but they too want what's best for their daughter and allow her to make her own choices. Justin is a flirt but he knows how not to cross the line and raise expectations. He clearly loves Arthur like a brother and wants his friend to be happy. Justin is more sensible of society's rules and proper manners than Arthur and sometimes it makes him sound snippy and snobby but he has his reasons for acting that way. Cleo's little brother Han is the only character really drawn from the Heyer canon and only in the sense that he's a young, sometimes headstrong boy full of energy and eager for adventure. He's a little naughty but listens to his sister's advice. Merry, their governess/companion, is a dear, sweet lady. How lucky they are to have her. The General is the most intriguing character. An old soldier from who knows where, he is an amnesiac serving as the Coopers' butler. He makes a good butler because he can be top-lofty and he seldom speaks, not having much of a long-term memory. I really like him.
Minor characters include the Coopers' manservant, Peter. I don't like the charade Peter enacts and how he deceives innocent people even if their belief in blood lines and family is silly, it's the way of their society and skirts the edge of morality and legality. The Coopers' aunts Lady Dorwood and Lady Sylvia could not be more different. Lady Dorwood is a bit silly perhaps but kind, while her sister-in-law is cranky and rude. Felicity and Cleo's suitors are very silly young gentlemen but affable for all their lack of brains. Lord Wainwright's sartorial splendor is very funny. A throwaway scene about his latest fashion craze is almost laugh out loud funny. Viscount Fenwick is dumb as a brick when it comes to women but he does have a valid point about the lady of his choice. Miss Dumprheys seems like a nice young lady and she deserves better than that nodcock. Mister Morton is possibly the least sensible of them all but he provides Han with something to do to advance his plot.
This story was so much fun I am eager to read the sequels to see what happens next.
content warning:
brown face scenes: characters dress like gypsies and darken their skin. I wish that detail was edited out of the Kindle edition.
read if you like the old Signet and Zebra paperback Regency romances from the 1990s
This is a fun, light older style Regency. At first I was confused because the author chose a slightly unconventional way of telling the story. She also chose to introduce new characters at the end of the novel leading to a few sequels. It is unfair to compare other authors to the incomparable Georgette Heyer so what I can say about Joyce Harmon is that she is a good author in her own right and hardly borrows from Heyer at all. While the writing isn't as sophisticated or witty as Heyer, it is better than many Regency set books I have read. The tone is light, even when confronted with villainous characters and the misunderstanding plot is mercifully very short and wrapped up quickly. I really appreciated that and enjoyed the adventure plot. There are some good historical details, setting the year at 1814. I was hoping for an author's note about Uranus but I looked it up. I'm a nerd but not nerdy enough to understand astronomy.
This story features some very unconventional characters NOT pulled from the Heyer canon! I absolutely love Arthur! He is adorable and so sweet! He's a super nerd and while I don't pretend to understand astronomy or any sort of science or mathematics, I was interested in his scientific observations and would like to have conversations with him. It makes a refreshing change to have a nerdy hero who isn't into women AT ALL! There's zero sensuality or sexual chemistry in this novel. There are gentlemen and ladies who are friendly and admire each other's temperaments and minds. Felicity is also a nice change from the usual spoiled beauty. She is unaffected by her success as the Toast of the Season. She remains sweet, kind and sensible. At first I was wary because she's blond and beautiful and has pushy parents, I was soon relieved to discover I really like Felicity and would be friends with her. I'm not sure I would be friends with Cleo. Setting aside social snobbery, Cleo is a cool cucumber. She is eminently practical, proud of her vagabond upbringing, sensible - all things I admire, but there's something about her that's off-putting for me. Her plan turned out to be a lot less dreadful than I expected.
The secondary characters spring to life and are all quite enjoyable, except of course the villain. Arthur's mother is loving and wants her son to be happy with his chosen bride, whoever she is. The Duchess wants a daughter-in-law who can not only step into her shoes but also make her son happy and that's rare in this type of novel. I think she is a great mother. Felicity's parents are a little vulgar and pushy but they too want what's best for their daughter and allow her to make her own choices. Justin is a flirt but he knows how not to cross the line and raise expectations. He clearly loves Arthur like a brother and wants his friend to be happy. Justin is more sensible of society's rules and proper manners than Arthur and sometimes it makes him sound snippy and snobby but he has his reasons for acting that way. Cleo's little brother Han is the only character really drawn from the Heyer canon and only in the sense that he's a young, sometimes headstrong boy full of energy and eager for adventure. He's a little naughty but listens to his sister's advice. Merry, their governess/companion, is a dear, sweet lady. How lucky they are to have her. The General is the most intriguing character. An old soldier from who knows where, he is an amnesiac serving as the Coopers' butler. He makes a good butler because he can be top-lofty and he seldom speaks, not having much of a long-term memory. I really like him.
Minor characters include the Coopers' manservant, Peter. I don't like the charade Peter enacts and how he deceives innocent people even if their belief in blood lines and family is silly, it's the way of their society and skirts the edge of morality and legality. The Coopers' aunts Lady Dorwood and Lady Sylvia could not be more different. Lady Dorwood is a bit silly perhaps but kind, while her sister-in-law is cranky and rude. Felicity and Cleo's suitors are very silly young gentlemen but affable for all their lack of brains. Lord Wainwright's sartorial splendor is very funny. A throwaway scene about his latest fashion craze is almost laugh out loud funny. Viscount Fenwick is dumb as a brick when it comes to women but he does have a valid point about the lady of his choice. Miss Dumprheys seems like a nice young lady and she deserves better than that nodcock. Mister Morton is possibly the least sensible of them all but he provides Han with something to do to advance his plot.
This story was so much fun I am eager to read the sequels to see what happens next.
content warning:
brown face scenes: characters dress like gypsies and darken their skin. I wish that detail was edited out of the Kindle edition.
read if you like the old Signet and Zebra paperback Regency romances from the 1990s
November 28, 2021
What a great find! A very fun read. ;)
April 9, 2014
Surrounded by society, servants and a sense of humor, Justin Amesbury valiantly guides the bewildered Arthur Ramsey, sixth Duke of Winton on his matrimonial quest, little realizing his own heart is in peril. Socially awkward Arthur, with further assistance from his mother, might manage to attach the woman fit to be her successor, if he approaches it all with the proper scientific method, takes good notes and remembers to send flowers, not books, as tokens of his regard.
Like the song says, “But if you try sometimes you just might find, you get what you need.” In this beguiling romp, everyone has needs. Arthur needs a bride fit to be a duchess and to correct the Royal Society’s expert on planetary orbits. Cleo Cooper needs courage to follow her plan and settle her family’s finances. Felicity Harwell needs a brilliant match and a good friend, if only it could be the same person. Justin needs to be taken a bit more seriously than he’d like to admit and a shepherd’s staff. Observing how these needs combine to reach the felicitous happy ending is quite the adventure.
This truly is regency romance in the classic tradition. There are plots, schemes, moments perilous to reputations and of course, tangles of the heart that must be sorted out. It isn’t a breathless ride, but you will find yourself catching and holding your breath, releasing it with a laugh that might give away the fact you’re not working.
The characters carry this tale so you forget they are not really Originals, except for their time and place and how adroitly they maneuver beyond the clichés. Their manner and interaction are totally believable and obligingly kind without losing their spirit and becoming wax caricatures. And, joy of joys, there is only one jealous cat, and everyone totally ignores her - ha - so there! The secondary characters never deteriorate to two dimensions and sensible solutions to fumbles and missteps renew your faith in humanity.
Ms. Harmon’s writing is crisp and her atmosphere created with a subtle hand. She places you in the moment without using lengthy personal monologues or contrived conflict. I never felt she was juggling flaming pineapples to keep me from looking too closely at the plot or characters. Instead, I felt invited to take my leisure, to appreciate the fact “society is composed of some very silly people.” This is a rare gift in these days of modern heroines in regency dresses coupled with sensitive new-age rakes. She takes four people with their assorted needs, dependents, relations and resources, then proves the adventure of reaching the happily ever after IS the soul of romantic literature. That you can have that adventure walking briskly or strolling socially is something she never loses sight of so you don’t either.
Definitely a keeper, I can’t wait to find more books from Ms. Harmon, I hope she plots and plans as quickly as Chloe does!
Like the song says, “But if you try sometimes you just might find, you get what you need.” In this beguiling romp, everyone has needs. Arthur needs a bride fit to be a duchess and to correct the Royal Society’s expert on planetary orbits. Cleo Cooper needs courage to follow her plan and settle her family’s finances. Felicity Harwell needs a brilliant match and a good friend, if only it could be the same person. Justin needs to be taken a bit more seriously than he’d like to admit and a shepherd’s staff. Observing how these needs combine to reach the felicitous happy ending is quite the adventure.
This truly is regency romance in the classic tradition. There are plots, schemes, moments perilous to reputations and of course, tangles of the heart that must be sorted out. It isn’t a breathless ride, but you will find yourself catching and holding your breath, releasing it with a laugh that might give away the fact you’re not working.
The characters carry this tale so you forget they are not really Originals, except for their time and place and how adroitly they maneuver beyond the clichés. Their manner and interaction are totally believable and obligingly kind without losing their spirit and becoming wax caricatures. And, joy of joys, there is only one jealous cat, and everyone totally ignores her - ha - so there! The secondary characters never deteriorate to two dimensions and sensible solutions to fumbles and missteps renew your faith in humanity.
Ms. Harmon’s writing is crisp and her atmosphere created with a subtle hand. She places you in the moment without using lengthy personal monologues or contrived conflict. I never felt she was juggling flaming pineapples to keep me from looking too closely at the plot or characters. Instead, I felt invited to take my leisure, to appreciate the fact “society is composed of some very silly people.” This is a rare gift in these days of modern heroines in regency dresses coupled with sensitive new-age rakes. She takes four people with their assorted needs, dependents, relations and resources, then proves the adventure of reaching the happily ever after IS the soul of romantic literature. That you can have that adventure walking briskly or strolling socially is something she never loses sight of so you don’t either.
Definitely a keeper, I can’t wait to find more books from Ms. Harmon, I hope she plots and plans as quickly as Chloe does!
March 12, 2022
More Heyeresque than any other author I’ve read. 4 1/2 stars, would be 5 if the main couple had been as convincing as the secondary one. Whilst clearly very compatible, the story was perhaps missing a few brush-strokes to show a deepening connection between them.
As it was, a charming read, with light adventure and engaging characters. Cleo is a determined, resourceful young lady whose past has given her views which set her apart from the rest of society. She appears fresh and unique. Arthur is a dear, but is clueless about society. This is where Justin comes in, the friend since childhood who takes him under his wing and does so with bittersweet success.
Felicity is a sweetheart. She makes a genuine effort to share Arthur’s interests, but can’t help feeling mystified by his interests. Nor can she entirely quell her feelings for Justin. When the story moves from London to a house party at Arthur’s estate, the group find that, given the Duke’s preoccupations, it’s a house party with a difference involving such unorthodox pastimes as a ‘planet party,’ a hike across the estate, and - at Cleo’s urging - an impromptu kitchen raid.
I liked the way the looming relationship tangle comes to a head and is then resolved, quite neatly, with humour and a minimum of fuss. It’s a gentler version of some of the near-farcical scenes which sometimes conclude a Heyer novel.
Will definitely read more from this author.
As it was, a charming read, with light adventure and engaging characters. Cleo is a determined, resourceful young lady whose past has given her views which set her apart from the rest of society. She appears fresh and unique. Arthur is a dear, but is clueless about society. This is where Justin comes in, the friend since childhood who takes him under his wing and does so with bittersweet success.
Felicity is a sweetheart. She makes a genuine effort to share Arthur’s interests, but can’t help feeling mystified by his interests. Nor can she entirely quell her feelings for Justin. When the story moves from London to a house party at Arthur’s estate, the group find that, given the Duke’s preoccupations, it’s a house party with a difference involving such unorthodox pastimes as a ‘planet party,’ a hike across the estate, and - at Cleo’s urging - an impromptu kitchen raid.
I liked the way the looming relationship tangle comes to a head and is then resolved, quite neatly, with humour and a minimum of fuss. It’s a gentler version of some of the near-farcical scenes which sometimes conclude a Heyer novel.
Will definitely read more from this author.
February 13, 2025
Very slow start but picked up around the half way point.
April 28, 2020
4.5 out of 5 stars
I believe that this is the first regency romance by this author. It was absolutely delightful, with a wonderful story, charming characters, and the book moved at a perfect pace. If you love well-written traditional regencies as I do, you will greatly enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more books by Ms. Harmon.
I believe that this is the first regency romance by this author. It was absolutely delightful, with a wonderful story, charming characters, and the book moved at a perfect pace. If you love well-written traditional regencies as I do, you will greatly enjoy this book. I look forward to reading more books by Ms. Harmon.
May 4, 2022
So far I’ve only read two books of the series but I’m finding them really refreshing and light-hearted. At first I thought I might prefer if there was a bit more depth but then decided that the lack of serious drama is actually part of its charm for me. The characters are very well-written. Cleo is a girl-boss and Han is by far my favorite character. Arthur is a little lost but we love him for it.
December 30, 2020
A charming and delightful story with amazing characters. It has tradition, witty conversations, humor and romance however it is not a very romantic book.
March 8, 2017
What I liked:
1) The multiple povs.
2) The slow burn romance, although to call it a burn is a bit of an overstatement.
3) The dry humour and witty banter.
4) This was completely clean both in language and content. I adore that the H was not a rake.
What I didn't like:
1) Most of the characters were pretty weak and just sort of fell into what was expected of them. I guess from a social commentary standpoint it made sense that the author wrote them this way. However, it made for some pretty boring reading.
2) The MCs didn't really get together The romance aspect of this story was very understated. For a society where good marriages were made regardless of passion of emotional attachment, it made sense for the story to be written this way. However, having the MCs spend so little time "on screen" as a couple made for a very drawn out story.
3) I understood why the h felt the need to steal in order to settle an estate on her brother. She was motivated by love. However, I didn't like that she was completely shameless about it. Justifying it by saying that she was only stealing from those "who could afford to lose it" didn't make it right either. Breaking the law is wrong, no matter how good your motives are.
Overall, this was an all right read. It could have been much better, but the general feel of this story was slow. Oh so slow. And the romance was too understated to make the slow read worth it.
1) The multiple povs.
2) The slow burn romance, although to call it a burn is a bit of an overstatement.
3) The dry humour and witty banter.
4) This was completely clean both in language and content. I adore that the H was not a rake.
What I didn't like:
1) Most of the characters were pretty weak and just sort of fell into what was expected of them. I guess from a social commentary standpoint it made sense that the author wrote them this way. However, it made for some pretty boring reading.
2) The MCs didn't really get together The romance aspect of this story was very understated. For a society where good marriages were made regardless of passion of emotional attachment, it made sense for the story to be written this way. However, having the MCs spend so little time "on screen" as a couple made for a very drawn out story.
3) I understood why the h felt the need to steal in order to settle an estate on her brother. She was motivated by love. However, I didn't like that she was completely shameless about it. Justifying it by saying that she was only stealing from those "who could afford to lose it" didn't make it right either. Breaking the law is wrong, no matter how good your motives are.
Overall, this was an all right read. It could have been much better, but the general feel of this story was slow. Oh so slow. And the romance was too understated to make the slow read worth it.
May 2, 2022
In reality more like 3.70
As with the Katherine When She Smiles book, the beginning is slow and hard to keep up with when a ton of fancy lords and barons are mentioned that are rarely mentioned later. You're trying to figure out who the main characters are but once you weed out the mains, it's highly entertaining with just the right amount of humor and I love the connecting characters because a feather to fly with is before Katherine when she smiles and it was nice to get a peek at Lord Charles.
Sweet, clean, romance with some great plots and subplots and fantastic characters.
As with the Katherine When She Smiles book, the beginning is slow and hard to keep up with when a ton of fancy lords and barons are mentioned that are rarely mentioned later. You're trying to figure out who the main characters are but once you weed out the mains, it's highly entertaining with just the right amount of humor and I love the connecting characters because a feather to fly with is before Katherine when she smiles and it was nice to get a peek at Lord Charles.
Sweet, clean, romance with some great plots and subplots and fantastic characters.
May 31, 2023
2023 bk 191. A well plotted regency with main characters that feel more real than the norm. A nearly destitute young woman works out a way to bring money into the family in order to purchase a small estate, give herself a season, and provide for her brother's future. A young man decides it is time he takes a wife to provide stability to his estate and family under the guidance of his best friend. (When will they ever learn - go to the Mama's, not their peers). Much entablement as liking a person doesn't necessarily mean you love a person and sometimes moral rectitude doesn't have a leg to stand on. Well done.
June 23, 2020
4.5 stars!! Absolutely loved it! Harmon is a strong author and a good storyteller.
March 27, 2023
Gosh this plot idea could have been amusing but the progress was so roundabout. Then at 35% I gave up when it got rather silly as well as coarse at the same time
March 31, 2018
It’s always a good sign when a book keeps me up until 2am, and so it is with this captivating tale, which could almost be an undiscovered Georgette Heyer. There’s nothing terribly unexpected about the story, but it’s the characters who make it. The scholarly and unworldly Duke of Winton is adorable, and his efforts to move through the social whirl of the season and find himself a wife are gloriously funny. He approaches it, naturally, as a scientific problem to be solved, but misunderstandings abound, as when his friend suggests sending a book instead of flowers to a young lady after a ball, and the duke sends her ‘Principia Mathematica’, but only the English translation, in case her Latin isn’t up to the original! The friend, Justin Amesbury, is the exact opposite, socially astute, gently guiding the duke through the shoals of ambitious mamas and insipid debutantes, a thoroughly nice man.
The ladies are just as well drawn. Cleo is the unconventional daughter of unconventional parents, newly arrived in England determined to restore the family fortunes to allow her younger brother to be a gentleman, and armed with a cunning plan to achieve her aim. Felicity is the dutiful daughter who knows she’s expected to marry well. And when these four get together, things go a little awry. But the ending is pure Heyer, a mad dash through the countryside with misunderstandings on all sides, followed by a slick and very fast wrap-up of the romance elements.
This one won’t work for you if you expect a romance to involve heavy interaction between the principals, with loads of sexual tension or actual sex. It also won’t suit those looking for lots of action or modern characters in period clothes. This is a classic traditional Regency romance, which is beautifully written and very, very funny, one of those books that makes you sad when you reach the end. I enjoyed every single moment of it. Five stars.
The ladies are just as well drawn. Cleo is the unconventional daughter of unconventional parents, newly arrived in England determined to restore the family fortunes to allow her younger brother to be a gentleman, and armed with a cunning plan to achieve her aim. Felicity is the dutiful daughter who knows she’s expected to marry well. And when these four get together, things go a little awry. But the ending is pure Heyer, a mad dash through the countryside with misunderstandings on all sides, followed by a slick and very fast wrap-up of the romance elements.
This one won’t work for you if you expect a romance to involve heavy interaction between the principals, with loads of sexual tension or actual sex. It also won’t suit those looking for lots of action or modern characters in period clothes. This is a classic traditional Regency romance, which is beautifully written and very, very funny, one of those books that makes you sad when you reach the end. I enjoyed every single moment of it. Five stars.
March 12, 2014
This was such a fun read, absolutely delightful! I loved the secondary characters as much as the primary ones (I want a younger brother like Han!). The dialogue is clever and witty. I especially loved that the hero is a bit geeky and socially awkward.
August 29, 2014
Nice traditional regency story written with a very good attention to the times and traditions. Although there were many characters in the story but they didn’t disrupt but rather enhance it, giving the feel of society.
December 20, 2015
Madcap RECENCY Adventure
I consider this story along the lines of a lighter Heyer novel.Liked the plot love the characters especially Arthur, Cleo.
I consider this story along the lines of a lighter Heyer novel.Liked the plot love the characters especially Arthur, Cleo.
August 16, 2025
"So this is what love feels like."
Gostei bastante da leitura. Achei a história bem interessante, só achei o final um pouco corrido. Talvez o livro poderia ter tido mais capítulos ou não ter se estendido em assuntos não tão importantes. Outra coisa a se levar em consideração é o ponto de vista: não temos apenas um ou dois nessa história, temos vários, de vários personagens diferentes. Tive uma boa experiência com esse tipo de narração, mas, às vezes, precisava pesquisar quem era o personagem ou voltar um pouco a leitura para saber quem ele era, porque não há sinalização de troca de pov. No mais, a história e os personagens são cativantes.
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I really enjoyed reading it. I found the story quite interesting, but the ending felt a bit rushed. Perhaps, the book could've had more chapters or not dwelt on less important topics. Another thing to consider is the point of view: there isn't just only one, nor two in this story, but we have a lot of point of views, from a lot of characters. I had a good experience with it, but sometimes I had to go back in the story to remember who was talking at the moment, because there's no indication of a pov switch. Otherwise, the story and the characters are captivating.
"In an environment where an unsaid thought was a waste of brain activity, gossip found fertile ground."
Gostei bastante da leitura. Achei a história bem interessante, só achei o final um pouco corrido. Talvez o livro poderia ter tido mais capítulos ou não ter se estendido em assuntos não tão importantes. Outra coisa a se levar em consideração é o ponto de vista: não temos apenas um ou dois nessa história, temos vários, de vários personagens diferentes. Tive uma boa experiência com esse tipo de narração, mas, às vezes, precisava pesquisar quem era o personagem ou voltar um pouco a leitura para saber quem ele era, porque não há sinalização de troca de pov. No mais, a história e os personagens são cativantes.
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I really enjoyed reading it. I found the story quite interesting, but the ending felt a bit rushed. Perhaps, the book could've had more chapters or not dwelt on less important topics. Another thing to consider is the point of view: there isn't just only one, nor two in this story, but we have a lot of point of views, from a lot of characters. I had a good experience with it, but sometimes I had to go back in the story to remember who was talking at the moment, because there's no indication of a pov switch. Otherwise, the story and the characters are captivating.
"In an environment where an unsaid thought was a waste of brain activity, gossip found fertile ground."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 8, 2025
I enjoyed this clean story. Duke Arthur was a scientist who had little time for social skills. He realised he needed a wife but how would be find one? His friend, Justin, was very patient with him and guided him in social etiquette. He met numerous ladies and decided on Lady Felicity. Her friend Cleo had a chequered past and was well-travelled so that made her interesting to talk to. He could not be interested in Cleo because of her background, or could he? The story deals with a wife cast from society for marrying beneath her station, people cheating to win races but to save the family finances, a serious dedication to science and an unawareness of social rules. Throughout all of this Arthur, Felicity, Justin and Cleo find a way to happiness.
I could understand Arthur's obsession with science, almost to the exclusion of anything else. I liked Justin's patient manner in advising Arthur about social rules. I enjoyed Cleo's clear-headed discussions about her travels and science. However, I felt there were too many characters in this story and, at times, that made it confusing. An enjoyable read.
I could understand Arthur's obsession with science, almost to the exclusion of anything else. I liked Justin's patient manner in advising Arthur about social rules. I enjoyed Cleo's clear-headed discussions about her travels and science. However, I felt there were too many characters in this story and, at times, that made it confusing. An enjoyable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2021
This is a PNP sort of story but with a twist at the end. I loved how Arthur, a young Duke who loves science, particularly astronomy, needs his friend to give him social lessons when he decides it's time to take a wife. He was known rather as a recluse who spent all his time looking at the stars and studying the planet's. So much so, that he really didn't know how to go about in society. About dancing with the debs, and sending flowers the next morning. He didn't understand about walking in the park. To him walking was for exercise and was done at speed. Not the stroll that society seemed to insist on. And he didn't understand that he couldn't be just friends with the season's Incomparable after singling her out all season and creating expectations. What are friends for? But once the bet is in the book at White's, even Arthur knows what is expected of him. But life has curves... Recommended.
April 8, 2023
A delightful romp through the inanity of British society
Cleo and her brother Han have come to London with a scheme to get money to set Han up in a country estate. They are aided by their butler General their maid Merri and a cook and a young actor friend. Cloe happens to meet Arthur, Lord Winton while running an errand. The further into their story the more interesting it becomes. There are all kind of revelations made near the end the most stunning related to the General.
Arthur is a scientist and seldom goes into society so his beat friend coaches him as he searches for a bride. This was entirely entertaining. I loved the family Cleo and Han had with General Merri and the cook and the loyalty they shared.Cleo had not had a traditional upbringing and is practical finding many of the rules to be nonsense. I loved the way the story unfolded. You knew Cleo and Arthur would end up together the story of how this was accomplished was ingenus.
Cleo and her brother Han have come to London with a scheme to get money to set Han up in a country estate. They are aided by their butler General their maid Merri and a cook and a young actor friend. Cloe happens to meet Arthur, Lord Winton while running an errand. The further into their story the more interesting it becomes. There are all kind of revelations made near the end the most stunning related to the General.
Arthur is a scientist and seldom goes into society so his beat friend coaches him as he searches for a bride. This was entirely entertaining. I loved the family Cleo and Han had with General Merri and the cook and the loyalty they shared.Cleo had not had a traditional upbringing and is practical finding many of the rules to be nonsense. I loved the way the story unfolded. You knew Cleo and Arthur would end up together the story of how this was accomplished was ingenus.
June 22, 2020
A pigeon brings news
Miss Cleo Cooper is new to London, born and grew up on the continent! Her father is an artist and mother a Lady but the eloped and was turned out by her family! Having grown up in Egypt, Italy, and Vienna, while getting ready to return to London they are swindled by a “Baron”, who disappears with his art work and a lot of his money. Her mother and father die and leaves her and her 12 year old brother alone, except a cook, butler and companion. On returning to London they do a little shady betting to get along, but on meeting her aunt, a Countess she inters society and meet Arthur(Duke of Winston) and he hates society but must marry and have an heir. There abounds many escapes between anew Lady friend, the Dukes best friend and the missing Baron. Enjoy!
Miss Cleo Cooper is new to London, born and grew up on the continent! Her father is an artist and mother a Lady but the eloped and was turned out by her family! Having grown up in Egypt, Italy, and Vienna, while getting ready to return to London they are swindled by a “Baron”, who disappears with his art work and a lot of his money. Her mother and father die and leaves her and her 12 year old brother alone, except a cook, butler and companion. On returning to London they do a little shady betting to get along, but on meeting her aunt, a Countess she inters society and meet Arthur(Duke of Winston) and he hates society but must marry and have an heir. There abounds many escapes between anew Lady friend, the Dukes best friend and the missing Baron. Enjoy!
January 20, 2024
I don’t remember where I got the recommendation for this book, but it had been sitting in my Kindle books to read list for a while, and I decided to give it a try, since I had just read a rather lackluster Regency romance by another author (and by reading this book directly thereafter, I feel I still may have rated that other one too highly haha). And what a delight it turned out to be! I’m pretty particular about what I look for in a Regency book (besides being clean) and this one ticked all the boxes. Likable characters who had flaws but not so much that you didn’t like them, a well-rounded support cast of characters, humor - but it wasn’t trying too hard, and a bit of a romp at the end, but nothing too ridiculous where it became absurd. Definitely in the style of Heyer, which is a compliment to be sure.
August 10, 2025
Big boo-boo. The hero and other characters supposedly observe the planet called "Neptune" through a telescope when the book takes place, which somewhere like 1812 or 1815. Nonsense! The planet was not seen, identified as a planet or named until 1846!!! Historical scientific erors continue with anachronistic observations about the rings of Saturn, etc.
Errors like this are very distracting. They take you right out of the story, as well as give you a very jaundiced view of the writer and material.
Too bad, because the author's use of period language was very good in dialogue. Ms. Harmon writes particularly well. But the plot was a little all over the place, taking forever to come to the point. Furthermore, character development was not good and there was no suspicion of amorous feelings between the main characters. Still, it was a pleasant, if somewhat irritating, read.
Errors like this are very distracting. They take you right out of the story, as well as give you a very jaundiced view of the writer and material.
Too bad, because the author's use of period language was very good in dialogue. Ms. Harmon writes particularly well. But the plot was a little all over the place, taking forever to come to the point. Furthermore, character development was not good and there was no suspicion of amorous feelings between the main characters. Still, it was a pleasant, if somewhat irritating, read.
October 1, 2021
I am actually enjoying Harmon's backlist more than I do her newer stuff. This book has an interesting plot with a young woman seeking to set up her family for the future after the death of her father. And she plans to do it not by catching a rich husband but by earning the money cheating at horse racing...
The Hero, while wealthy and aristocratic, is a scientist at heart. He comes to London to start the search for a wife. He is completely at a loss as to how to do this. His social attempts are pretty funny and he actually comes across as a nice guy.
We know exactly how this is going to come out, but the story is a step above the more routine Regencies.
The Hero, while wealthy and aristocratic, is a scientist at heart. He comes to London to start the search for a wife. He is completely at a loss as to how to do this. His social attempts are pretty funny and he actually comes across as a nice guy.
We know exactly how this is going to come out, but the story is a step above the more routine Regencies.
April 30, 2020
New author, new twists. Although you could almost see where this romance was heading, how she was going to achieve the end result was the puzzle.
Who are the Cooper's and how does she make this vagabond family into ton acceptable and rich enough for peer quality?
How to take a scholarly duke and bring him into society and find a diamond in the first water who is bright enough to catch his eye and intelligent enough to keep his mind captivated.
These are the puzzles or at least a very few that unravel in this book. Fun read!
Who are the Cooper's and how does she make this vagabond family into ton acceptable and rich enough for peer quality?
How to take a scholarly duke and bring him into society and find a diamond in the first water who is bright enough to catch his eye and intelligent enough to keep his mind captivated.
These are the puzzles or at least a very few that unravel in this book. Fun read!
May 18, 2018
I've been looking for decently written Regency romances, my guilty pleasures, for years and now Joyce Harmon has managed to fill the bill. A Feather to Fly With, her first novel in this frothy romantic genre is a fun romp through Regency society, as light as...a feather. Harmon is very welcome to be part of a marvelous group of writers: Georgette Heyer, Joan Smith and Claire Darcy. She is witty and knows her Regency history. I look forward to reading her next one.
September 19, 2020
Good material for a romance comedy movie
I love regency, but sometimes it's all "angst" and not much else. This is a lighthearted read with "much else". It needs a tiny bit of work to fix the typos and occasional un-period statement (such as "the house was 'a hit'", but otherwise the story & characters were lovely. Would like to read more by this author. I'd love to see this one as a movie, I think I would be grinning and laughing by the end.
I love regency, but sometimes it's all "angst" and not much else. This is a lighthearted read with "much else". It needs a tiny bit of work to fix the typos and occasional un-period statement (such as "the house was 'a hit'", but otherwise the story & characters were lovely. Would like to read more by this author. I'd love to see this one as a movie, I think I would be grinning and laughing by the end.
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