| Title | : | The Lady and the Highwayman (The Dread Penny Society #1) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1629726052 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781629726052 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Paperback |
| Number of Pages | : | 352 |
| Publication | : | First published September 3, 2019 |
Fletcher Walker began life as a street urchin, but is now the most successful author in the Penny Dreadful market, that is until Mr. King started taking all of his readers--and his profits. No one knows who King is, including Fletcher’s fellow members of the Dread Penny Society, a fraternity of authors dedicated to secretly fighting for the rights of the less-fortunate.
Determined to find the elusive Mr. King, Fletcher approaches Miss Black. As a fellow-author, she is well-known among the high-class writers; perhaps she could be persuaded to make some inquiries as to Mr. King’s whereabouts? Elizabeth agrees to help Fletcher, if only to insure her secret identity is never discovered.
For the first time, Elizabeth experiences the thrill of a cat-and-mouse adventure reminiscent of one of her own novels as she tries to throw Fletcher off her scent. But the more time they spend together, the more she loses her heart. Its upper-class against working-class, author against author where readers, reputations, and romance are all on the line.
The Lady and the Highwayman (The Dread Penny Society #1) Reviews
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The Lady and the Highwayman by Sarah M. Eden is a 2019 Shadow Mountain publication.
What a delightful romance!!
Elizabeth Black is a proper author, and the headmistress of a girls’ school by day…
But by night, she writes Penny Dreadfuls under the pseudonym of Mr. King, living an adventurous life vicariously through her characters.
Fletcher Walker, former street urchin, and the most profitable of the Penny Dreadful authors, has found himself in serious competition with the mysterious Mr. King.
He and his 'dreadful' writing colleagues are determined to find out who this Mr. King is before he robs them of their profits.
Their secret group isn’t as greedy as they sound, though. They use their fortunes to help the needy, especially the street children.
Fletcher, knowing Elizabeth is a well-respected author, enlists her to help him unmask Mr. King. Elizabeth agrees, hoping her involvement in the crusade to out her as a ‘dreadful’ author will prevent him from uncovering her secret.
Thus, begins a game of intrigue, with the thrill of adventure and danger- but with one small complication- Elizabeth and Fletcher are falling in love…
It has been a good long while since I’ve read a historical romance- and I think I grabbed this book at just the right moment when I needed something light, fun and romantic.
The story is fast paced, with some wonderful dialogue and a cute set up.
It’s clean with a touch of whimsy and the author does a neat trick by incorporating portions of Elizabeth’s Penny Dreadful episodes to parallel and complement the main plot. It was exactly the kind of charming story I needed and reminded me of what a comfort romantic novels can be.
Looking forward to the next chapter in the series! -
3.5 stars. Sarah Eden, a well-known author of clean historical romances, shifts gears in this unusual twist on the genre: a cat-and-mouse game between Elizabeth Black and Fletcher Walker, two Victorian era authors of “penny dreadful” novels.
Victorian-era penny dreadful novel
They really were a penny! And in all likelihood the writing was dreadful too, although I understand the dreadful part is actually referring to the scary villains and monsters that usually populated these thriller-type books. :)
Fletcher is trying to unearth the identity of a “Mr. King,” who’s overtaken Fletcher as the best-selling author of penny dreadful novels. It’s not just pride; Fletcher, who was once a street orphan himself, needs the money to help fund his secret organization of men committed to helping rescue and educate London’s street children. (What exactly Fletcher and this organization plan to do about Mr. King, other than maybe ask him to join their group, isn't entirely clear. It sort of seems like they have something ominous in mind but ... maybe not?)
Anyway, Fletcher asks Miss Elizabeth Black, headmistress of a respectable girl’s school and author of “silver-fork” novels, to help him track down Mr. King - never dreaming that Elizabeth IS Mr. King. Besides the socially-approved silver-fork novels, she has a fondness for writing the more sensational penny dreadful novels ... and plus they make her way more money, which she ALSO needs to help fund her girl's school. Elizabeth, determined to keep her secret from him - it would ruin her socially and professionally if it became known - agrees to “help” Fletcher, really intending to mislead him. Hah!
There's a subplot about people devoted to trying to improve the lot of poor children and teens in London (spoiler alert: the villains who prey on the poor take exception to having their schemes interfered with) and just a little romance, complete with the trope .
These chapters about Fletcher and Elizabeth alternate with chapters from the pulpy novels that the two of them are currently writing, in which monsters of various types abound. It’s occasionally a bit slow, the main characters are almost too altruistic to be true, and the other characters are pretty one-dimensional, but overall it’s a fun and quite different kind of book if you like light historical romances. I enjoyed seeing how the chapters from Fletcher’s and Elizabeth’s penny dreadful novels tied into the main plot ... especially when it happened on purpose. :)
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Thank you! -
In 19th Century London, Penny Dreadfuls were "low-literature serials" featuring captivating stories of adventure, damsels in distress, criminals and monsters. For a "penny", laborers, tradesmen and children could purchase the newest weekly installment. Fletcher Walker grew up living the hardscrabble life of a street urchin. Only through a stroke of luck was he able to escape the desperate life he was leading where a street urchin could be beaten for walking slower than his master. Fletcher was now a top selling writer of Penny Dreadfuls. He was the largest financial contributor to the Hoggs School, the only school London street children could attend. He crusaded to help feed poor families, rescue girls from houses of ill-repute, and stop masters from abusing their working children. The rise of the mysterious Mr. King, a new writer of Penny Dreadfuls "...was, slowly, but surely, claiming an ever-larger slice of the penny dreadful pie".
Elizabeth Black was Headmistress of Thurloe Collegiate School. Elizabeth was "the picture of respectability". She had written several "silver-fork" novels, novels for and about the upper class. Her well-ordered life included attending silver fork or political salons that helped generate school funding from the "elevated class"... but...Elizabeth had a secret! She wrote Penny Dreadfuls under the pen name of Mr. King. Her most profitable works included "Excesses of emotion. Dastardly villains. Daring escapes. Sword fights. They were exaggerations of the most delicious sort, exciting the senses, palpitating the heart, offering an escape from the doldrums of life"...but..."A lady in her position could be respected or she could be adventurous. What she could not be was both."
Fletcher Walker belonged to the Dreadful Penny Society, a clandestine society of Penny Dreadful writers who met in an undisclosed location."Being made known would keep them from helping and rescuing and doing the good that meant so much to them." The elusive Mr. King was upsetting the applecart. Who was he? Fletcher studies King's stories. "He don't write the same as the rest of us. He's got class, more sophistication." Fletcher enlists the help of Elizabeth Black, a silver fork novelist who hob-nobs with the upper crust of society.
"The Lady and the Highwayman" by Sarah M. Eden was a delightful historical romance. Interspersed within the novel are two Penny Dreadfuls. Such fun! I wonder if perhaps this tome should be marketed to the teen/YA audience.
Thank you Shadow Mountain Publishing and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review "The Lady and the Highwayman". -
A FRESH NEW TAKE ON HISTORICAL ROMANCE!
When I started this book I was expecting just another run-of-the-mill historical romance novel. I was very pleasantly surprised to learn that this one actually stood out in numerous ways."Rumour had it, Fletcher Walker wasn't born but had simply appeared one day, swaggering down the streets of London."
THE THINGS I LIKED
Chemistry: Historical romance has a tendency to be more about lust and physical attraction than actual romance. Sure, it can be amazing and hot. But romances that start with lust are a little outplayed if you ask me. Luckily, Eden steered clear of that cliché. The chemistry between Fletcher and Elizabeth was rooted in mutual interests and respect and that made for a great chemistry between them.
Banter: Part of Elizabeth and Fletcher's chemistry played out in the amazing banter they shared! It was so well done, so humorous, witty, flirtatious and delicious! I loved it!"Do you find ambition in a lady intimidating?"
"On the contrary, I find it irresistible"
"How very un-British of you."
Victorian: Usually, historical romance is set in Regency England or sometimes in Medieval England. This book, however, took place in Victorian England which gave the story a completely different vibe and which separated it even further from other historical romances.
No aristocrats: Again, historical romance usually features at least one aristocratic MC. But yet again, Eden stepped outside the usual genre because neither Elizabeth nor Fletcher were aristocrats. Elizabeth is a working woman, a writer and a headmistress of an all-girls school. Fletcher is a former street urchin turned successful penny dreadful writer.
WHAT I DISLIKED
The Vampire's Tower: This book is actually three stories in one - the main story of Elizabeth and Fletcher, Elizabeth's penny dreadful novel The Lady and the Highwayman and Fletcher's penny dreadful novel The Vampire's Tower. The main story was my favourite and I quite enjoyed Elizabeth's story as well. However, Fletcher's story was a weak spot in my opinion. The writing as well as the plot of the story was weak and really dragged down the overall story.
ARC provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
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4.5*
I wasn't entirely sure what to expect when I picked this one up. I knew that I love pretty much anything/everything that I read from this author but this one was her first Victorian and a historical fiction. I found myself loving the style, especially the interspersed, "Penny Dreadfuls."
Now you're asking what are "Penny Dreadfuls?" Well, let me enlighten you. They were serial stories written for the lower classes and cost a penny. A way for many to be able to enjoy reading a story affordably. They were also not considered quite proper for the upper class, so possibly a little bit of a taboo subject for high society.
Elizabeth and Fletcher are both authors. She is a proper and influential author while he authors the dreaded "penny dreadfuls." They both have their secrets from each other but which are pretty easy for the reader to pick up on right at the beginning of the story.
There are two penny dreadful stories going on throughout the main storyline and I have to say that I enjoyed how the two connected with what was happening in Elizabeth and Fletcher's lives.
This book looks at the different levels of society, from the street urchins and other poverty stricken people to the wealthy. I thought it was well written and I really enjoyed all the historical aspects that you can see the author really did her research on. I think that's one reason why I really enjoy her writing so much is because of the rich history that she includes in her stories. Not only am I reading and enjoying myself being immersed in a story, but I'm learning as well. Definitely a win/win for me with reading!
If you're a Sarah M. Eden fan, I hope you grab this one and enjoy the many aspects of it. Suspense, a little romance and great characterization. If you've never read books by this author before and enjoy Victorian then this would be a good one to start with.
Content: Clean. Some moments of peril and suspense. Descriptions of life for street urchins, some talk about the children being beaten and mistreated but nothing graphic. I felt it was well done for showing but not overly showing the horrific circumstances experienced by many of the lower class, especially the children.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!! -
I always know when I pick up a Sarah Eden book that I will get a wonderful story, relatable characters, accurate history and an overall entertaining reading experience. Her books are an experience, especially her historicals. I went into this one without reading the synopsis first, I have started doing this more with books and think it adds more surprises to the story. I was quickly sucked into this one, I don't want to give too much away, but as usual Ms. Eden has written a captivating story. I enjoy the characters she creates and how she is really able to bring them to life. I could be wrong, but I think this is her first Victorian novel and I really enjoyed the time period.
Our main characters Fletcher and Elizabeth were charming, unique and perfect for each other. I enjoyed their chemistry and what each brought to the story. It was an interesting take to have both of them authors with their stories woven into the overall story. It was handled well. I liked that it stayed light, while still addressing serious issue.
I would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys historicals or just great stories! -
It is always, always, a pleasure to read Sarah Eden's books. She has a remarkable gift for crafting a story that wraps itself around my heart. I think what I love the most is how she takes the dark, hard and difficult circumstances of life and balances that with hope through a few good people trying to make a difference. That, in turn, gives me hope. I've been a bit heartsick lately for how difficult and cruel this world is. The future doesn't always look so bright and I've been trying to remind myself that there are lots of good people in this world, trying to combat the evil, one person at a time. I was worried that this book would just add to my disappointment in humanity based on what this book is about but I shouldn't have worried. The hope was stronger than the evil and the good people made a difference. I needed that reminder. Even though this is a work of fiction, it portrays real life. There are people out there rescuing and loving. They are making a difference for the one.
I love Fletcher. He won me over in the first few chapters because he's the underdog that everyone wants to root for. Fletcher is scrappy, determined and has a heart that lends itself to helping the downtrodden- especially the children. He's a gem and Elizabeth thinks so too. 😉 Elizabeth is pretty great herself.
There are stories within the story as Fletcher and Elizabeth are both writers and we get a sample of the "Penny Dreadful" stories they create. It gave me a glimpse into both of their worlds and their hearts. It was fun!
I really loved this book. From beginning to end. I felt as though I was right there with Fletcher and Elizabeth through it all. It was fantastic.
Content: peril, abuse (with no specific details), some mild violence, kissing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own. -
I should know better than to start a Sarah Eden book at bedtime! By the time 3:30 am rolled around I finished the book with a happy sigh :) This one is unputdownable. (That should totally be a word). Sometimes I find novels set in Victorian times to be a bit stuffy, but this book is the exact opposite of that- the characters find liberation and freedom in their unconventional work and their vibrant personalities jump off the page. I loved that we got to know Fletcher first- he is so compelling with his confidence despite his tragic childhood circumstances. He's the best sort of person- using the pain of his experiences to improve the lives of others. He's a bit sassy and flirty which is tempered by his depth of compassion and willingness to sacrifice. Elizabeth has those same qualities, but because of her position as a headmistress, must be above reproach and begins to resent that she must stifle herself so much. The secrets and hidden identities are a fun plot device and the pace of the book is steady as Fletcher and Elizabeth get to know each other and grow in affection, all while rescuing the children of London's slums one at a time. Their banter and chemistry is entertaining and I loved their dynamic! Highly recommend!
(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own) -
I was a little worried when I started this story. You quickly come to find out the two main characters are writers. You basically get 3 stories in one with this book:} I wasn't sure this was going to work but it did and very well. You learned a lot about Fletcher from his stories. The way she twines Elizabeth's story around their own story is awesome. I loved this one. It is probably one of my favorite Eden's It had a light feel and a good mystery and romance! So much fun to read!
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This was my first time trying Sarah Eden’s books, and I thought there was several aspects that were enjoyable and interesting about this read. There was one aspect that was not, and it took away from some of the enjoyable bits, in my opinion.
This novel featured penny dreadful serialists who are part of a secret society to aid the poor. The members are growing concerned at the growing popularity of a new and mysterious writer called Mr. King. If this new writer takes too much readership, the society’s ability to help the poor will be in jeopardy. The hero, Fletcher Walker, makes it his mission to find out who Mr. King is and offer membership to the society if that appears to be amenable.
Elizabeth Black run a girls school that seems to cater to the wealthy or upper middle class. She is also a writer and meets Fletcher at a literary soirée. She is interested in gaining further support for her school. Her and Fletcher get along well and end up helping each other out.
I thought the details about the penny dreadfuls interesting. I also enjoyed the characters and that many walks of life with varying backgrounds were featured. However, most chapters included installments from the writers, and they weren’t just excerpts. Instead of keeping track of one story, there were three. Three different storylines. Three sets of characters. This was distracting and sometimes confusing.
If you don’t mind multiple storylines, you may like this more than I did. I would consider trying more by Eden as I thought the research well done and the main story interesting, but unfortunately the penny dreadful installments detracted rather than added to that.
*I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. -
Reread review:
Blog Review:
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I JUST LOVED IT! AGAIN!
I don't know why exactly, but this book has been on of my bases for good Historical Romances for since I've read this. This is probably the first historical romance I read, and it has definitely set some of my standards for them.
This might be the only historical romance I've read that is completely clean, has a light-hearted, but not without angst romance, and does plot well. I'm so tired of historical romances promising romance and then going on to fill the book with needless plot.
This book is more Historical fiction than it is a romance, and so it makes sense for there to be plot. And I loved the plot.
This being a reread, I would spot little stuff that I missed the first time, and that made for an amazing reread. I also found myself more supportive of Elizabeth's decision to write her snubbed interaction with Fletcher nearly word for word, whereas last time I found it a stupid decision.
Once again, I enjoyed The Lady and The Highwayman penny dreadful, but didn't completely love The Vampire's Tower. I just don't much enjoy vampires, but I did love the parallels King's book drew from Elizabeth and Fletcher's interactions!
What I especially love about this book is that it's so simple. You don't get irritated with the lust because there isn't any, neither the smut, or the misunderstood feelings. The writing especially feels like it was actually written by someone from the time period. So many historical romances use today's slang which does not make for good escapism, but this one succeeds there.
I'd forgotten there was a bit of fake relationship in this one, so that made for a nice surprise, and the reveal of the secret identity was amazing as it was the last time. I also really love how smart Elizabeth is, and the banter between Elizabeth and Fletcher is to die for, not in the least because it has all of the dry humour one associates with the time period.
An amazing reread, which I feel I'll reread in the future as well. Once again recommend to historical romance lovers who are sick of lust/smut, and want a change, to plot lovers, who can follow three stories at the same time, and enjoy the period relevant banter.
First read review:
Blog review:
https://trishadoeseverythingbutstudy2...
I REALLY REALLY LOVED IT!!!
This was not what I was expecting.....in a good way. I was pleasantly surprised by this book, and I want more!!!
The thing I loved most was that there was not that much angst, and I was really not in the mood for angst, so this was perfect!!
I seriously loved the characters; Flecther was just so intriguing, and Elizabeth was so badass (in her own way). The way their writing was incorporated into the book was done very well, and I wasn't bored at all by their weekly penny-dreadfuls. The plot was light and didn't expect too much from me, which was very good.
When the book ended, I didn't even realise it was over....I mean it was written so well, I seriously thought there was more. and that ending was so good, I was just grinning stupidly at the screen.
I will most likely read the other books in this series, and I will probably look for more by this author. I have really acquired quite the taste for Victorian-set novels, and I will be reading more from this genre.
I would love to read more from this author, and I recommend this one to anyone who likes Historical romance, no smut (this was, surprisingly, completely clean), sweet and easy to read books, and little to no angst. -
I am not overly exciting about The Lady and the Highwayman. I was curious when I picked up Miss Eden's The Dread Penny and Society series. The plot is interesting. It really is. But it fails to launch spectacularly. It just OK.
I do like the simmering chemistry between Elizabeth and Fletcher. they came from different social background (which is big deal during Victorian era) and yet they can come to common ground. And as the rest of the book, it was OK. I do not hate it nor like it very much.
3 stars -
Thank you, thank you NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for allowing me to read this uncorrected proof e-ARC. All opinions expressed in the review are my own.
Fletcher Walker's origins are a bit of a mystery. To say he has risen from humble beginnings would be an understatement. He was picking pockets by age 4 and at age 10 swaggered into a ragged school where he received the education that matched his drive to succeed. Now a successful author of "penny dreadfuls," Fletcher and his fellow penny dreadful authors in the secret Dread Penny Society seek to help urchins like Fletcher once was. Their financial security is threatened by the rising sales of a new penny dreadful author, a Mr. King. Mr. King is a mystery and Fletcher loves mysteries. He must determine whether Mr. King would stand with them or against them. Little does Fletcher know that his quest for Mr. King will produce so many frustrating dead ends, because... Mr. King is actually a woman! Elizabeth Black, headmistresses of Thurloe Collegiate School, was a lady by birth but forced to earn her living. She has written several well-received "silver fork" novels and earned the respect of Society. However, Elizabeth has a secret. By day she's a proper headmistress but by night she pens a penny dreadful serial "The Lady and the Highwayman" taking London by storm. Elizabeth must keep her authorship secret if she is to retain the respect of Thurloe's wealthy funders and respectable parents. Elizabeth is a rogue at heart and when she encounters Fletcher she finds a mystery worth solving and unwittingly stumbles into his philanthropy efforts. Elizabeth is an enthusiastic reformer and not about to be left out of things, but what if Fletcher discovers her secret? Will she be exposed to all of London and lose her livelihood? As the two become deeper involved in the seedier side of Victorian life, they are drawn closer together but Elizabeth is a lady and Fletcher an overgrown urchin. Can they take the greatest risk of all and let their hearts speak freely?
I absolutely adored this story! It starts off a little slow and episodic but it picks up after a time and I couldn't put it down. I waffled between 4 and 5 stars until the very end. I thought it largely implausible that Elizabeth would out herself in her story and that Fletcher wouldn't catch on. The clues were staring him right in the face and still he didn't realize Mr. King WAS Elizabeth. However, by the end, I decided I liked the story that way because it leads to a more charming conclusion. The ending of the story was not completely satisfying and I would love to see this turned into a series. The romance is adorable! I love the banter between Fletcher and Elizabeth and every time I finished a chapter I found myself grinning from ear to ear. These two are so perfect for each other. The romance develops nicely over a shared interest in helping the wretched (think
Les Misérables type people) and their writing careers. At first I didn't like the penny dreadful stories. Having three stories in one book is a bit much and I wanted to skip ahead to the main storyline. However, DO read the stories within the story because as Fletcher and Elizabeth's relationship grows, art begins to imitate life and we get to know our hero and heroine a lot better.
The writing style is great. This is only my second full-length novel by this author but I've read some of her short stories and this one is better written. I love the way she conveys the diversity of Victorian London without resorting to outdated descriptors or stereotypes. She does briefly mention "tight, curly hair" but that's the only indicator the character does not resemble the typical person of the British Isles. That could mean anything until it's clarified. People in this story have ancestors from all over the world, which makes sense given the British Empire was quickly becoming the largest empire in the world. Authors, THIS is the way you do diversity in a period piece. It's there because it belongs. The descriptions of life in the London slums and the plight of the poor really conveyed the darker side of the time period (it really did remind me of Les Mis, same time period). The problems still persist and we need the Dread Penny Society in modern times.
The Penny Dreadful novels are not supposed to be well-written but more for entertainment purposes. I really didn't like Fletcher's. Vampires creep me out! I did like the plucky heroes, Morris and Joe. They give the reader a glimpse of what Fletcher was like as a boy. Elizabeth's made me roll my eyes a lot at the silliness of it all. I figured out the secrets pretty quickly. I thought perhaps something different was going to happen but when it didn't, I knew my first guess was correct. I don't like how patently obvious Elizabeth makes her authorship. Really, as clever as Fletcher is, he ought to have figured it out. How typical of a man, even an unconventional one, not to think a respectable lady could pen trashy novels. Honestly!
The characters are all so well-written I feel like I know them. Elizabeth is my Victorian alter ego. I'm a rebel at heart but unlike Elizabeth, I lack the courage to do some of the things she did. Her school is exactly the type I would support and send my daughter to (if I had one) at that time regardless of class. I would be a champion of female education like Elizabeth. I love how strong, kind-hearted and brave she is. Elizabeth wants to help children because she's compassionate and empathetic not for any particular religious motivation. I really appreciate the lack of preaching in this novel. Fletcher is motivated because he was once on the streets doing whatever it took to survive and he wants other children to have the same opportunities he did. I admire him for that but I confess to being taken in by his witty banter. If I had one complaint, it would be that he doesn't yet open up to Elizabeth and tell her the story of his childhood even his friends don't know.
Elizabeth's friend Ana, a music teacher, is very sweet and good. When push comes to shove, she can be strong and brave to help her students. There's potential for a secondary romance here. Mr. Headley, the closest thing Elizabeth has to a suitor, like Edward Yardley in
Venetia, he likes to mansplain things to Elizabeth. The depth of his character surprised me and the story ended too soon. I need to know more.
Fletcher's friends are more diverse and interesting than Elizabeth's narrow society. Mr. Hogg runs the ragged school like the one that gave Fletcher his chance. This is an incredible story I didn't know about. Hollis Darby, Fletcher's closest friend, is from an aristocratic family fallen on hard times. He has incredible sympathy for the poor, unusual in one of his class. He's a very nice man who helps Fletcher navigate the tricky waters of courting a Society lady, even if the courtship is ostensibly fake. Stone, a former American slave, is the muscle of the society. He's the silent type but obviously against slavery of all kinds and will do whatever it takes to be free and ensure no human is enslaved. Brogan, Fletcher's other close friend but not confidante, is an Irish charmer. He's tough and rough and ready but also kind. I love his sister.
The plight of Daniel, the climbing boy is shocking and despicable. It's hard to believe that kind of abuse was legal. Mrs. George and her thugs are to be expected in this time and place. It is the oldest profession after all. They're very nasty sorts. Four-Fingered Mike is also a nasty villain but the nastiest of them all eludes everyone. One known only as "The Mastiff" frightens even the police. We never learn who it is but my guess is someone from the upper class controlling the police and the government from within. Did they have mafia types in Victorian Britain?
I can't say too much more without spoiling the story for others but if you like
Charles Dickens,
Elizabeth Gaskell,
Victor Hugo, watched "Victorian Slum House" on TV, you might like this novel. If you like gothic novels you might like the stories within the story. If you love a good proper romance in the vein of a traditional Regency Romance you will LOVE this! Jane Austen x Charles Dickens x Bram Stoker and Mary Shelley.
Reread of the final published paperback edition August 2021
*sigh* *swoon* Just as good as I remembered! Since I read the ARC, I wanted to see if there were any major changes to the story. I noted the year was changed and in the paperback book, it's specifically mentioned that it's set in 1865 because the DPS sent a lot of money to the Union cause during the Civil War and that's why they're low on funds and the search for Mr. King begins. There's also some other mentions that probably set the scene for those familiar with British law.
The romance is just as sweet and funny. I adore Fletcher and Elizabeth. Their witty banter makes me smile. She's so intelligent, brave and strong. I love how kindhearted and compassionate she is. Her journey is about becoming her truer self unafraid of what "people" (parents of her students) will think. At first I questioned her writing herself into her story but she WANTED to tell Fletcher the truth and was about to but they were interrupted. He was blinded by jealousy, fear and self-doubt. He knew she was close to Mr. King and figured Mr. King was closer to Elizabeth's social class and she could never love an urchin like him. Oh Fletcher! You're lovable the way you are!
I think everyone around Elizabeth and Fletcher - aside from Mr. Hedley - can see the growing romance. Janey, the maid, is funny and cheeky. She adores Fletcher because he rescued her and she loves Elizabeth for giving her the job and being kind. Fanny, her sister, is older and a little wiser. She doesn't interact with Elizabeth as much. The gentlemen of the DPS certainly can see Fletcher's growing feelings for Elizabeth and how their fake courtship is turning genuine. The ending is ridiculously adorable.
The danger element shows a different side of Victorian London. People like Four-Fingered Mike, The Mastiff and Ma George were certainly not anomalies, nor was the evil chimney sweep. This story illustrates how those with money turned a blind eye to what was happening around them. The world belonged to them and they set the rules and nothing else mattered. While the danger plot is scary, it's not too dark or grim. There's a lot of humor to balance it out and the DPS are like superheroes.
I skipped the penny dreadful stories this time around.
I am a huge fan of Sarah M. Eden and picked up the third book in the series yesterday. I can't wait to read it! -
Grown-up street urchin Fletcher Walker and elusive Mr. King are competing for the extremely profitable penny dreadful market. They both write to fund help for poor children. Mr. King is actually school Principal Elizabeth Black who hides her identity because she is afraid to ruin her reputation. While drama intensifies Elizabeth and Fletcher have to work together to keep both the children and themselves out of danger.
The Lady and The Higwayman (Proper Romance) is the standalone novel by Sarah M. Eden published by Shadow Mountain Publishing. The setting of the plot is London 1865 when penny dreadful stories where cheap and very profitable serial literature published weekly at just one penny.
The focus is on Fletcher Walker and Elizabeth Black who are passionate about children’s education and are both funding their work by writing penny dreadful stories. While Fletcher is actively rescuing urchins off the streets, Elizabeth is running a very proper upscale middle class girls’ school.
Fletcher Walker has a good heart but undermines himself quite a lot because of his background. It is pleasing to see that he keeps his head held high when moving in up-scale circles and does not hold back from using his colorful language.
Elizabeth Black seems a caring and warm hearted person very careful about her reputation. Her character changes throughout the story and she becomes more assertive and courageous in keeping with the plot and the slightly new company she keeps.
In a story with such superb character building and some seriously unsavory personalities, it feels difficult to decide who my favorite character is, so I just have to say both Elizabeth and Fletcher. They both feel authentic, nice and warm hearted people trying to make a difference for children on the streets of Victorian London. The descriptions of the rescue operations of street urchins were my favorite part of this story.
The Lady and The Higwayman (Proper Romance) by Sarah M. Eden was excellent entertainment and a quick and easy read. The research was impressive and the writing captivating as I felt transferred to Victorian London 1865. The Dickensian vibe I got from this multi layered and complex plot was very enjoyable. The dialogue felt authentic and interesting; particularly the funny bantering. The Lady and The Highwayman had a surprise ending I cannot stop thinking about, as it must have lead to some very interesting consequences.
The relationship between Elizabeth and Fletcher starts off with banter. Behind the banter, mutual feelings are steadily increasing. It’s nice to see they grow closer through the plot and a romance gets room to develop in the midst of all the drama.
The Lady and The Higwayman (Proper Romance) by Sarah M. Eden was excellent entertainment. It was a quick and easy read with impressive research, great dialog and a surprise ending. The plot was new and refreshing and my favorite part was descriptions of street life in London 1865.
Fans of Sarah M. Eden will enjoy The Lady and The Higwayman (Proper Romance), as will readers of historical romance fiction. Similar authors to explore might be Esther Hatch and Anita Stansfield.
Thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing and Edelweiss for this review ebook which gave me the opportunity to share my honest review. All opinions are completely my own.
My rating: 5 stars / 5
Main reasons: Interesting plot, superb research, excellent crafting of characters, great writing and dialogue -
I'm finally admitting I just don't have the time or energy to write a proper review for this right now, but don't let the brevity of my review reflect upon how much I loved the book! Because I adored it! Thanks so much to QNPoohBear for the recommendation (and, if you want a good, in-depth review you can read hers). The story has bits of Les Miserables, a bit of Oliver Twist, a bit of Sherlock Holmes, and a bit of Jane Austen... even a hint of Jo March/Louisa May Alcott (I know, I know... that's a jumble! but, believe me, it works out so charmingly here). I was worried it would be a bit too dark at times, with the plight of the urchins and "the miserable" of London, but Eden is deft at giving it just enough weight without making it too heavy. And, it just makes you cheer for Fletcher, Elizabeth and the Dread Penny Society all the more knowing what they are up against. The parts with the children really tug at the heartstrings and there were many times I wanted to give Fletcher a big hug. The "penny dreadful" stories interspersed are so much fun -- though theoretically they are "stand alone" stories they really do help shed light on the characters of Fletcher and Elizabeth and I recommend reading them as they occur within the chapters proper. Fletcher's was a little creepy but I'm really squeamish about horror stuff and it wasn't too much for me to handle. The romance between Fletcher and Elizabeth is wonderful. For me, it was pitch-perfect with a bit of friendly antagonism and witty banter but also a lot of mutual admiration and respect. I looked forward to reading this every day and still smile when I think of it.
I liked it so much I put the second book in the series on hold at the library before I finished the first one. -
Oh, man. The book ended. I'm not quite sure I was ready for that. It could have gone on and on, I would have been perfectly content.
In this romance, you get three stories in one. You have the main story of Elizabeth and Fletcher, then there is the "Penny Dreadfuls" - stories that the common folk could purchase that wasn't considered proper literature. (I must admit that I thoroughly enjoyed them.) Fletcher knows that there is an author competing for the top rung of the publishing ladder, he knows it is Mr. King, he just doesn't know that Mr. King is Elizabeth. It makes for an interesting dynamic. She is aware of who he is, he just doesn't realize who she is.
The main draw of the book was that both are committed to helping children. Elizabeth runs a school for girls from the middle class and Fletcher removes street urchins from dangerous situations and takes them to a school for the lowest class of people. His work leads to situations that dangerous and tricky. Elizabeth is up to any of the challenges that he throws at her. They are a formidable team.
I can't say that there is anything that I didn't love about this book. It is a different writing style for Sarah Eden, I hope to see more of this in the future. I wouldn't object to some "Penny Dreadfuls" thrown in for good measure.
This book contains kissing and non-graphic violence.
Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own. -
Set in London in the 1830's. Fletcher Walker rose from the rags to prominent position. He is the most successful author in the Penny Dreadful market. His earnings help fund the efforts of the Dread Penny Society: feeding poor families and saving those in abusive situations.
All would be fine, if not for the Charles King pseudonym whose sales of the Penny Dreadful are starting to surpass his.
Now, he is on a mission finding who is writing under the pseudonym of Charles king.
Elizabeth Black is the headmistress of a girl’s school and a well-respected author of “silver-fork” novels. “Writing books for the fine ladies of the upper class was considered an acceptable endeavor for the headmistress of a girl’s school.” But she also has a secret project, writing something considered not so acceptable for a woman of her station. If it ever to come out, the disapproval would result in students being withdrawn or new students not applying.
At an educational evening, she meets her match, Fletcher Walker. But the topic of the interest happens to be elusive Mr. King and Mr. Walker chasing him. He needs help and Elizabeth agrees to help only to insure her secret identity is never discovered.
As the stories of both main characters are being revealed, the stories they write at the same time are integrated as well. As a result a lot is happening.
The characters are likeable and the premise of the story is interesting, but at the same time the focus seems to be scattered. And at some points, I was losing interest in the story.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. -
Miss Elizabeth Black is headmistress at a girls' school in London and a well-known writer of silver-fork novels. She has a secret though, she also an extremely popular novel of Penny Dreadfuls under the nom de plum of Mr. King. The stories she produces under her nom de plum are her escspe from her dull day-to-day life and are a secret which, if discovered, will destroy her standing among the upper-class and her position as headmistress.
At a small gathering she makes the acquaintance of Fletcher Walker, another popular Dread Penny author and a member of the ellusive Dread Penny Society. Growing up as a helpless urchin himself and now in good financial standing and health, he fights for the protection and well-being of all the current street urchins of London. But fellow author Mr. King is undermining his sales and therefore his funds for helping the unfortunate children of London.
Both of them are intruiged by the other and find themselves repeatedly in one another's company and each comes progressively closer to unearthing the other's secret.
This is a very original book, as three stories are being told simultaneously: the story following our two main characters and both of their current Penny Dreadfuls. The two Penny Dreadful were unique to each other. One focused on the more paranormal and daring bravery, the other on romance and perserverence.
I was nervous going into this book because I didn't know how the author would pull it off without it being confusing or clunky. I was a bit slow to start, but picked up fairly quickly. The three stories worked together seemlessly and give a clear picture of the characters and their motivations. I enjoyed learning about Elizabeth and Fletcher.
I will add though that I thought it was fairly obvious that Elizabeth was Mr. King and the fact that Fletcher wasn't able to pick up on it was quite disappointing since he is so clever. But I enjoyed her unveiling, it had just the right amount of flair.
I have read a few books from Sarah M. Eden before that were part of a series and this book was wholly unique from what I had read from her before but just as enjoyable.
If your looking for a different take on a Victorian romance, I recommend this book! It is a clean romance.
I would like to thank Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read an ARC of this book. This is my honest review. -
I'm always happy when I get to read a Sarah M. Eden book. You can tell she really does a lot of research for the time period of the book. This is a Victorian, not a Regency, so society rules weren't quite as strict. This book is like getting three stories in one. There's the main story of Fletcher Walker and Elizabeth Black and then there are two Penny Dreadful stories told within Fletcher and Elizabeth's story.
Fletcher Walker has risen above his upbringing and works hard to help the boys and girls who are like he once was--street urchins getting by by their wits and stealing. He truly cares for these children, so when the source of income to help them--the Penny Dreadful stories he writes--is threatened by a new author taking his spot as the #1 author, he's determined to find and meet this Mr. King.
Elizabeth Black seems to be all that is proper. She runs a school for young ladies and writes "silver-fork" novels that the more educated people read, but we soon find out that Elizabeth as a secret that if exposed would mean the end of her school.
I loved these characters. Fletcher is the best!! He's extremely caring, yet fun. Because you can take the urchin off of the street, but you can't always take the street out of the urchin, he's sometimes not as proper as a "true" gentleman would be, but that's what makes him such a fun character. He's got so many wonderful qualities, there' no doubt Elizabeth would fall for him, I know I would have.
I loved the two Penny Dreadful stories and how they started to mirror what was going on between Fletcher and Elizabeth. And let's not forget the rest of the men in the Penny Dreadful Society. How cool is it that they dressed up in disguises to tail the people who are out to do harm to the children? The parts telling about the situations of some of the children made me so sad. Did anyone else wonder who the Dread Master is? I haven't a clue. I loved the ending of the book and look forward to more from the Dread Penny Society.
Thanks to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for allowing me to read this wonderful book. All thoughts and opinions I've expressed in this review are my own. -
3.5 ⭐️
It’s always something special to read about writers and romance. *Sigh* I inhaled them and watch how crucial it was to be a productive writer and how sometimes people have to hide who they are to be taken seriously or without due respect. This to me was a very important part of this story.
The other part was about the streets of London.....poverty, crime and the needs and rescue of some of the misfortunate children. It was great and quite an adventure.
Things I loved:
• The Dread Penny Society
• Romance
• The rescues
• HEA
This was a NETGALLEY gift and all opinions are my own. -
The Lady & the highwayman is a historical romance set in 1865 London.
The main characters are Fletcher walker who used to be a street urchin now is a successful writer and is in dreadful penny society which put me in mind of a Robin Hood type gang of men who advocate for the poor. Then we have Elizabeth Black she is the head teacher at all girls school is Mr King secretly fletchers biggest rival author.
I thought this was a nice take on historical romance, the chemistry between Fletcher and Elizabeth was brilliant I also loved the banter they had together.
Unfortunately for me the chapters from both of their books seemed to take away from the plot in my opinion. I really didn’t like the idea of stories within a story and found myself skimming these chapters so I could get back to the main story.
In spite of this I did really like Elizabeth and Fletchers story, the romance was nice and I love Victorian stories so that was a bonus for me.
Thank you to netgalley & shadow mountain publishing for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review. -
I wanted so badly to love this, and it’s...... fine, I guess. It’s a fun concept, but the execution is far from my taste. Perhaps people who like Julia Quinn will like it? There’s no conflict, nor any character growth, and the writing is pedestrian at best (and heavy on exposition to boot). Points for trying to show a facet of life ignored by most romance, but this book was not what I’d hoped.
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Very cute & original story between two competitive authors, involving hidden identities & forbidden love! With this book you get 3 stories in one- The main storyline & then two sides stories written by the main characters that reflect their life happenings & relationships.
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I was pleasantly surprised at the complexity and page-turning élan of Sarah M. Eden’s The Lady and the Highwayman. Eden is a new-to-me author and I’m glad I’ve discovered her romances; this first read won’t be my last, thanks to her robust backlist.
Victorian-set among the humble and working-class, Eden’s thriller-melodrama-romance boasts a former-“guttersnipe” hero, now successful penny dreadful author, and girls-school headmistress heroine. Fletcher Walker struts the streets of 1865-London with the swagger of a man who brought himself out of the gutter and into success. But Fletcher is not an advocate of the every-man-is-an-economic-island making his own way in the world. He is the defender, rescuer, and fighter for the poorest of the poor and the most vulnerable of London’s invisible people, the widowed, fatherless, and orphaned; the sweep’s agony, the harlot’s cry come under Fletcher’s protection and his penned stories tell of their pathos, endurance, and spunky survival, the importance of helping one another, and defending those who cannot defend themselves. His author’s income isn’t for himself alone, but largely given to the poorest of the poor.
In the meanwhile, Miss Elizabeth Black, in more rarefied circumstances as Thurloe Collegiate School’s headmistress, does the same for faculty and students, running her school and penning, by day, respectable novels for Victorian ladies; by night, she turns her pen to her penny dreadful pen name, “Mr King,” and his tales of distressed damsels’ displays of bravery and intelligence, as well as finding true love, a rival to Fletcher’s success and income. What is marvelous about Fletcher and Elizabeth is their incomes are not for themselves alone, but for the use of Fletcher’s fellow-band-of-urban-Robin-Hoods, the “Dread Penny Society, and Elizabeth’s faculty, servants, and students, respectively. Eden’s thriller-romance doesn’t rescind an iota of humor, banter, suspense or adventure to tell a tale of Victorian bleakness and suffering. Fletcher and Elizabeth are as witty and romantic as they are morally and socially conscious. (Their band of merry-men-and-women made this reader sequel-salivate with their possibilities.) It’s wonderful to read about good people doing good without making them saintly-boring.
Eden’s Lady and Highwayman also offers three-interwoven narratives: how Elizabeth and Fletcher meet to fight evil and rescue children, fall in love, enact their authorial rivalries, as well as their fictional creations’ adventures: Elizabeth’s eponymous penny-dreadful novel, “The Lady and the Highwayman,” and Fletcher’s adventure story of two urchins foiling and destroying a vampire to rescue their street-urchin buddies. The staid Miss Elizabeth Black yearns for adventure herself and it arrives in the form of Fletcher Walker when he elicits her help in discovering the identity of the mysterious Mr. King, Eden showing as sure a hand at this lovely touch of irony as she does at everything else.
Elizabeth and Fletcher are soon embroiled in saving girls from exploitative procurers and rescuing sweeps from abusive criminals. They maintain a teasing banter, an affectionate counterpoint, a tender repartee until the final, glorious saucy HEA, serving justice and making a delightful feminist point. Eden’s propensity for suspense, adventure, and twirling mustachioed villains too often takes precedence over Fletcher and Elizabeth’s wonderful budding romance, but I loved them so, and Fletcher’s fellow Dread Penny Society’s band of merry brothers equally, and the orphans, flower sellers, and sweeps I took to heart. Eden builds a marvelous world of the good, the bad, and the deserving, of justice, love, and fellowship, breaking barriers between low- and high-born and between common and high literature. With Miss Austen, I find in Eden’s Lady and Highwayman “no charm equal to tenderness of heart,” Emma.
Sarah M. Eden’s The Lady and the Highwayman came out in September of 2019 and I’m sorry I waited as long as I did to read it. It is published by Shadow Mountain Publishing and may be found at your preferred vendor. I received an e-galley from Shadow Mountain via Netgalley. -
4.5
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I am in the opposite of a book slump. Not sure what it would be called. A book deluge? Book Heaven? Whatever I am in the middle of, I LOVE it! (It also scares me. It means I'm due for a HUGE book slump and those are always miserable.) This book has me deeply in the middle of my book glut and I am just so happy!
I LOVED this book. The setting felt real, the characters were diverse and felt like they belonged to that time. The romance was light and sweet and my FAVORITE part was this was almost three stories in one! The premise is that both MCs are writers of Penny Dreadfuls and the chapters alternate from the perspectives of the H, the h and in-between those chapters are bits from the current Penny Dreadful on which they are working. It's awesome! I admit, I wasn't overly interested in the one written by the H, but the h's story and the main story of the book both grabbed me.
This was such an inventive way of telling the story of the book, in my eyes at least. There was everything you could want in a book; romance, adventure, humor and historical information presented in an entertaining way.
I have to loan this to a friend and I am hesitant, because I want to keep it in my hot little hands! My book, MINE!
I need to learn to share and I can always order it from my store, but you try telling that to my reptilian brain, lol!
Utterly loved this book. 5, I would highly recommend that you read this book, stars!
Only two kisses, some old-fashioned slang "bad" words/sayings, some violence on children happened off-page, but the main theme of the book is the good guys trying to save the poor abused and exploited children of London, so there is no getting around that kids were beaten, starved, and used as sex workers. It's not graphic, but it is present. Also, some violence when thugs attack the h's place of business, with attempted arson. Again, not overly graphic, but realistic for what was happening in that time and place. YA on up. Maybe a mature middle reader, but would recommend an adult peruse this first to ensure it's a good fit for the middle reader in question. -
It’s always a joy when I have the opportunity to read a book by Sarah Eden! I was especially excited for this one because it’s a romance between two authors! As an author myself, I find that idea utterly romantic. In addition, it’s set in the Victorian era—which is my favorite historical era—and features the stories written by both our hero and heroine. I was certain I’d love it.
For the most part, the story lived up to my expectations! I really enjoyed the secrets and hidden-identity aspect to the plot where Fletcher’s dominance in the penny-dreadful market is being taken over by a new author who, unbeknownst to him, is the woman he’s falling in love with. It was delightful watching Elizabeth helping him try and discover more about the elusive Mr. King who was in reality her!
Speaking of our hero and heroine, I loved both of them. While Fletcher’s personality took awhile to grow on me, he soon charmed me with his fierce need to help the street children escape the life he once lived. I loved kind-hearted Elizabeth from the moment we met her and thought she and Fletcher were perfect for one another; their banter and chemistry was delightful, and their romance adorable; I wish we could have seen more of it. I did love their focus on striving to bring education to others who don’t have the opportunity for learning. It was fascinating—albeit heartbreaking—learning about education in Victorian England, and really helped me appreciate the blessings I’ve had to become educated in my own life.
Overall I enjoyed the additional stories woven throughout the narrative and thought it was fun how they paralleled with what was going on in the main plot. I preferred The Lady and the Highwayman tale to The Vampire’s Tower, but I became invested in both.
Unfortunately, while I enjoyed most of the story, in the last quarter of the book the entire reading experience kind of fell apart for me. The plot was a bit too action-packed and focused too much on ‘monsters’—both the literal ones in the penny dreadful stories and the symbolic ones in the main story. It wasn’t what I like to read and it dragged on too long.
One final quibble I must mention: while it made the dialogue more authentic, I didn’t like the lower-class cant between many of the characters and often had a difficult time understanding it.
With the plot-heavy ending, the often somber subject matter in the story, and not much page time spent on the romance, I didn’t love The Lady and the Highwayman as much as I anticipated. However, despite all that, it was still very well written and a thoroughly enjoyable read, one I liked very much. I’ll definitely reread it in the years to come. -
I found this story rather fun and unique. Our heroine, Elizabeth, writes novels for the upper classes of society by day. In secret, she likes to write the "penny dreadful" novels so loved by the lower classes. Our hero, Fletcher Walker, comes from from the lower dregs of London and also writes penny dreadful novels. He belongs to the Dread Penny Society, a wonderful group of people pledging to better the lives of who they can, protect what they can of the lower class, and fight for the rights of education in the poor ragged schools.
A competing penny dreadful author, Mr. King, is cutting into the profits of Fletchers work, thus affecting the profits and abilities of the Dread Penny Society. The two authors work together, Fletcher wanting the identity of Mr. King, and Elizabeth wanting some adventure in her life.
The story is split up into sections of each authors penny dreadful novels as well as the main story. I really liked this and was totally drawn into the gothic feel of the novels. I enjoyed Sarah Eden's writing, the flow.
This story does lose stars for me though because I felt like the hero and heroine were barely together in the page time. It really downed the romance for me, which was extremely sparse anyway. I love historical romance for the feels, the tension, the longing and being transported to another era. Unfortunately for me this book missed most of the those things.
I was able to receive an ARC copy complimentary from netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. -
An interesting premise for a Victorian novel.
What stood out to me the most was the setting and the characters. The setting is very realistic in the way it depicts the social issues, especially those of children.
Both Elizabeth and Fletcher try to do what they can to alleviate the conditions of children; she with the school for girls and he with saving street urchins. For Fletcher, it's more personal since he was one of those children. but he's moved past that and uses the money from the sales of the penny dreadful novels he writes to save those in bad conditions.
Elizabeth too is a writer and writes both high-class novels and penny dreadful stories under a pen name, and she too uses money from her sales to fund her school.
As ill-suited to each other Elizabeth and Fletcher may look, they are actually perfect for each other. I liked the way they developed a friendship first and then fell in love as they discovered more about the other.
I also liked the stories they write and it was fun to see my name in an historical.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion. -
Delightful
I love learning a bit of history in a fiction setting. I hadn't ever heard of "penny dreadfuls" before and this unique book combined many enjoyable elements into a complex story that was very entertaining from the start. Just in case you don't know what penny dreadfuls are either, they were sold for a penny and told tales of adventure, pirates, highwaymen, crime, and detection. In this book, the reader is treated to not only a love and adventure main story, but as Fletcher and Elizabeth are both authors, books they're each writing also make appearances, including penny dreadfuls. I love how Elizabeth uses one of her stories to try and throw Fletcher off the trail.
Eden does a great job in portraying a fairly accurate (in my opinion) view of Victorian social life, including issues. While the story goes back and forth, a cat and mouse game emerges and kept me eagerly flipping the pages. I thought this book was very well-written and engaging and look forward to more of this Proper Victorian line.
Content: mild romance; mild violence/danger
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
