Who Would Like This Book:
If you can't resist a classic English country house party with a twist, Proper English is a treat! The book blends a charming, opposites-attract romance between two women (think practical sharpshooter meets bubbly heiress) with a cozy murder mystery. Fans of historical fiction, witty but low-drama romance, and Agatha Christie-style mysteries (minus the old prejudices) will find a lot to love. The supporting cast is wonderfully colorful, and the setting is vividly drawn - perfect for readers seeking an immersive, queer-positive period piece.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you're craving a tightly-woven thriller or a high-heat romance, this might miss the mark. Some readers found the romantic tension resolved too quickly and the mystery plot a bit rushed or predictable. The pace can feel uneven, especially if you prefer stories where romance and mystery are more intertwined. And if you're looking for explicit steam or lots of suspense, the sweet, gentle tone and mild sex scenes here may leave you unsatisfied.
About:
Proper English by K.J. Charles is a historical romance novel set in the England World series, focusing on the characters Pat and Fen as they navigate a shooting party that turns into a larger house party with unexpected guests. The plot intertwines romance, mystery, and character development, with Pat and Fen forming a strong and believable connection amidst the backdrop of a murder investigation. The writing style is engaging and detailed, capturing the essence of the English spoken during the Victorian to Edwardian Era.
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Notes:
Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of murder and betrayal, potential instances of homophobia, and discussions on societal gender expectations.
Has Romance?
Romance is a significant and central element of the story, showcasing a deep emotional connection between the main characters.
From The Publisher:
A shooting party at the Earl of Witton's remote country house is a high treat for champion shot Patricia Merton-until unexpected guests turn the social atmosphere dangerously sour.
That's not Pat's biggest problem. She's visiting her old friend, the Earl's heir Jimmy Yoxall-but she wants to spend a lot more time with Jimmy's fiancée. The irrepressible Miss Fenella Carruth, with her laughing eyes and lush curves, is the most glorious woman Pat's ever met, and it quickly becomes impossible to remember why she needs to stay at arm's length.
But while the women's attraction grows, the tensions at Rodington Court get worse. Affairs, secrets, betrayals, and blackmail come to light. And when a body is discovered with a knife between the shoulderblades, it's going to take Pat and Fen's combined talents to prevent the murderer destroying all their lives.
Ratings (7)
Loved It (4) | |
Liked It (1) | |
It Was OK (2) |
Reader Stats (40):
Read It (7) | |
Want To Read (11) | |
Did Not Finish (1) | |
Not Interested (21) |
1 comment(s)
English country house mystery meets Sapphic romance. I love Fen’s unexpected depths, and I love Pat taking Fen seriously.
What can you read after
Proper English?
About the Author:
KJ Charles is an editor and RITA-nominated author. She lives in London with her husband, two kids, an out-of-control garden and a cat of absolute night. She writes mostly historical queer romance, some paranormal. Smut, skulduggery, and swashbuckling may occur.Follow on Twitter at @kj_charles, join the KJ Charles Chat group on Facebook, or check out kjcharleswriter.com for book info and many posts on reading, writing and editing.
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