The Nonesuch by Georgette Heyer
“The Nonesuch” is one of quite a few Georgette Heyer books being released this summer. It now seems strange to say, but three or four months ago I had never heard of Georgette Heyer, who writes historicals, historical mysteries, and Regency romances. Then, suddenly, her name was EVERYWHERE. I saw reviews, I saw people in just about every group on LibraryThing referencing her, I saw her in bookstores, and I heard people talking about her in real life. Evidently she was this absolutely beloved author and I had no idea why I had never heard of her or read any of her work.
When I was contacted with the opportunity to review some of her work, I decided to remedy that. I chose one of her books (I didn’t want to take more than one then hate her and have to get through all of them) more or less at random and settled in with it. Because of everyone who LOVES Heyer I had high expectations and was originally a bit disappointed, but changed my mind by the end of the book.
The title character of “The Nonesuch” is Sir Waldo Hawkridge, who earned his nickname by being an unparalleled sportsman. He has recently inherited an estate from a now-deceased cousin and traipses across the English countryside to a small village in Yorkshire with his younger cousin to view said estate. The arrival of two such prestigious men as The Nonesuch and his cousin Julian, Lord Lindeth cause a great deal of commotion in the town, particularly among the young ladies.
The first thing that made me think I would NOT like this book was the simpering of the ladies when they discovered that The Nonesuch was coming to their small town. Yes, simpering. No other word would describe it. “I cannot go on,” I thought, “if the rest of the book is anything like this!”
Luckily, it wasn’t. It took me until almost the midway point to get into “The Nonesuch,” but I’m glad I gave it a chance. I can definitely see why Heyer would be on the top of so many lists for a comfort read. The works are a bit reminiscent of Jane Austen, since she basically wrote Regency romances as well. They are fluffy, but not as fluffy as something like “Shopaholic” or other modern day chick lit. They are romances without sex and nudity, no gratitous love scenes, and everyone gets what they deserve in the end.
It took me a bit, but I enjoyed my first foray into Heyer’s work, and I would definitely like to have a few of her books in reserve, ready for when I need a comfort read.
I just read and reviewed my first Heyer book too.I thought I was the last blogger to read her work — glad I’m not alone!
Julie P.’s last blog post..Review: A Convenient Marriage
I reviewed this one recently as well, AND it was also my first Heyer. I enjoyed the ‘classic’ feel to it, brings me back to my days of enjoying Alcott etc.
My post is here http://bit.ly/Qfe9l
Marie Burton’s last blog post..Mailbox Monday
Nice review! I’ve been a fan of Georgette Heyer for many years now, thanks to my mom, who had many old copies of her books. I’ve read and re-read all her Regencies many times! If I may, I’d like to recommend some of my favorites for the next time you decide to pick up one of her books…
The Grand Sophy
Frederica
Regency Buck
These Old Shades
Lady of Quality
Hope you have the chance to read more of her books–there are some that will have you laughing out loud!
Melissa @ Melissa’s Bookshelf’s last blog post..The Sunday Salon: Review: Magic Study
Thanks for the recommendations Melissa! I should get a couple of these from the library when the baby is born. They would be great books to read during feedings, etc.
I’m glad that you ended up enjoying this one, Jen. It sounds better than False Colours. I think I have Lady of Quality at home. I’ll make that my next Heyer novel since Melissa liked it so much.
Literate Housewife’s last blog post..#164 ~ Precious ~ Book Review and Blog Tour
This isn’t one of the ones I got for review, but it sounds just as good as the ones I’ve read. Very comforting and entertaining books. =)
Meghan’s last blog post..Review: Eclipse, Stephenie Meyer
I tried to read A Convenient Marriage this weekend. I got 100 pages in and couldn’t take anymore, the main female character was awful! Now, reading your review is making me consider picking it up again. What is another 20 pages?
Jess’s last blog post..What are you reading on Mondays? — 5/18
I think I will be the last person to try Heyer’s work. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
I still haven’t read Heyer, but may I say I really enjoy the way you review things. I feel like I’ve got a handle on a book after I’m finished reading one of your reviews.
Janet’s last blog post..And now for something totally cool
That is such a fantastic compliment Janet, thank you so much! I don’t think I could have asked for a better response to a review.
I’m getting ready to start my first Heyer book (The Conqueror). I’ve never heard of this one, so if I like the one I have, I’ll go searching for this one next!
Michele’s last blog post..Original Content and the Book Blogger
I’ve only read one other review of this one. Sounds like once you get started it’s worth the effort. Thanks for the review!
Staci’s last blog post..Mailbox Monday- May 18
I may try one of the historical fictions, but I’m not keen on romances. I am in the haven’t read her yet (though I’ve known about her for years).
Beth F’s last blog post..Review: Tales of the Otori by Lian Hearn
So, I’ve been having the same experience this week. I’d never heard of Georgette Heyer until I read this review. Now her name is popping up everywhere! I’ll have to read one of hers soon. Thanks for the review.
“Comfort read” is the perfect way to describe Georgette Heyer novels! Great review!
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