Nocturne

REGENCY:  Ella Montgomery accepted a position as governess at Blackheath Manor after her father’s passing, hoping for stability. However, the manor and its family hides secrets - and after mysterious music draws Ella to the wounded and supposedly dead Thomas Worsley, she finds herself caught in the middle. With the bitter Earl fearing his brother’s discovery on one side and her own attraction to Thomas on the other, Ella will have to make a choice that could either save the man she’s quickly falling for or destroy them both.

“Nocturne” is a clean read with two main characters drawn together over music and sorrow. A short gothic regency tale, it has plenty of secrets, family drama, and spooky settings without the horror to attract fans of historical romance. The story also features a small but interesting cast of characters. Although the plot is somewhat predictable, and the length and quick pace prevents development; there are a few surprises in how the problem is solved and the romance is sweet but passionate enough to warm a reader’s heart. “Nocturne” is a novella with enough mystery and sweet romance to fill a reader’s lazy afternoon.

Sarah E Bradley