Sian Bessey

Sian Ann Bessey’s Georgian Gentlemen series has been a favorite of mine, and The Unassuming Curator is a wonderful addition to it. Bessey is a master at creating interesting, memorable, engaging characters and building delightful stories around them.

Emily Norton is dreading her upcoming London Season. When she comes across a gentleman digging up a flower near a hedge, she is intrigued. As she meets him again in London at a dinner party, they discover they are interested in many of the same things. Henry Buckland is a curator of natural history at the British Museum and happens to be colorblind, which is a detriment in his job. He is caring and diligent and connects quickly with Emily who enjoys reading, science, and learning new things. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow as they spent time together. When danger threatens, Henry’s Aunt Millward and Emily step in to help. Aunt Millward is such a fun character. She’s witty, adventurous, helpful, and a great addition to the story.

I enjoyed learning more about the British Museum while reading this charming tale. Bessey’s rich historical research is evident, and the author’s notes at the back of the book were very interesting. The writing is excellent and the story flowed well. Although this is part of a series, it can easily be read alone. Some characters from previous books in the series make an appearance in this one, which is an added pleasure. I would recommend this book to those who enjoy clean and wholesome historical romance. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Covenant Communications through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.… (mer)

Another delightful, warm hearted, sweet romance in the Georgian Gentleman series. I loved this book. I can always count on Sian Ann Bessey to fascinate me with interesting historical details and an enjoyable romance. In this story, we’re treated to a behind the scenes look at the life of a museum curator in the late 1700’s. Brimming with a gentle romance, witty dialogue, endearing characters, and a hint of mystery/suspense, this story was definitely one I thoroughly enjoyed reading and had a hard time putting down.

Emily is the type of kind, down to earth, knowledge seeking young woman you’d want to be friends with and Henry is just as endearing and interesting. When they meet on a country lane and banter over a red campion flower, both think it unlikely they’ll see each other again. But, that brief encounter stays with them and when they formally meet again in London, there’s a definite attraction there.

Emily thirsts for knowledge and is constantly curious about the world around her. She loves reading nonfiction and can’t wait to see the museum where Henry is a curator. Henry suffers from color blindness, a condition that wasn’t well understood at the time. This makes identifying the colors of flowers in particular difficult. As their relationship blossoms into more, danger threatens when Henry’s reputation and health are put in jeopardy after being considered for the position of director of the museum.

I loved Emily & Henry. They’re both the type of characters you easily cheer for. I enjoyed Henry’s forthright, lovable aunt, as well as seeing Phoebe and Adam again. There’s also a conniving villain who doesn’t want Henry to succeed. The mystery builds towards the end when everything comes to a head.

Highly recommend, especially to historical romance fans! Although it’s part of a series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are completely my own and voluntarily given.… (mer)

When I heard this book was about Vikings, I was intrigued. It was even better than I imagined! Based on a true story, Sian Ann Bessey weaves a riveting tale of mystery, romance, forgiveness, and redemption. From the first, the story captured my imagination and I found it hard to put down. The attention to historical detail really made this story and time period come alive.

Rhiannon is an intelligent, thoughtful woman who loves the sea and finds solace and comfort from it. When a dinner welcoming a potential husband is disrupted by a brutal Viking attack, her world is turned upside down. Literally orphaned, she goes to live with Owain Gwynedd, the King of Cymry now known as modern Wales. When her cousin’s betrothed is brutally murdered, Rhiannon must decide if she is willing to trust her enemy to find the truth.

Leif, son of a Viking ruler is expected to take part in the raids bringing supplies and wealth home. In the last raid though, he can’t forget the beautiful woman whose world was shattered by their actions. Her parting words seared his soul. Leif seeks out the local Christian priest to better understand their meaning. Profoundly affected by this notion of redemption and forgiveness, Leif stops participating in raids and takes up a new profession as a silver smith.

When the brother of the Cymry King arrives on their shores pleading innocence in the murder of his niece’s betrothed, Leif offers to travel to Cymry and investigate, since he speaks Gaelic. When he sees Rhiannon again, he’s determined to seek her forgiveness and return what rightfully belongs to her. As the two form an unlikely friendship, they work to find the truth behind the murder.

I loved this story! The romance between seeming enemies was beautifully done. I loved how Rhiannon’s heart is softened by Leif’s sincerity. The mystery was compelling and I loved the way the clues were revealed throughout, The suspenseful ending leading up to a dramatic conclusion had me quickly turning the pages. I loved visiting this time period and hope that the author continues writing books in this world.

Highly recommend this book to historical fiction and romance readers. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.… (mer)