The Education of Mrs. Brimley
Go to Book 2 → ← Go to Short Story
The Chambers Series Book 1
Emma Brimley, new teacher at Pettibone School for Young Ladies, believed no harm would result from her claim to be a widow. But when she arrives in Yorkshire, the innocent young lady is horrified to discover she’s expected to prepare her students for the intimacies of marriage. She can’t lose her post as a teacher. In desperation, she turns to the alluring—and annoying—neighboring artist. He might be a dandy and a reprobate, but “Lord Bedchambers” might also be the only one who can help her.
Lord Nicholas Chambers, black sheep of his family, needs a model for his entry into the Royal Academy’s exhibition. He offers the new teacher a scandalous bargain: he’ll answer her questions about anatomy and bedroom etiquette if she poses for him. For every question answered, she must remove an item of clothing as his model. But what started out as a game of wits quickly becomes a game of the heart. And Mrs. Brimley may not be the only one getting an education in the sweet rewards of seduction.
Romantic Times 2008 Finalist for Best First Historical
Golden Heart Winner 2006 for Best Unpublished Long Historical
"MacMeans writes with grace and wit, and her debut is certain to dazzle readers with its irresistible combination of complex characters and very sexy romance."
Booklist
"MacMeans debuts with a scintillating take on the classic lessons-in-love theme. Her witty dialogue, sexy hero and delightfully intelligent heroine -who understands the value of a well-rounded education – are sure to garner her a wide readership."
Romantic Times BOOK Reviews
"Oh, what a joy to read! Truly humorous, I greatly enjoyed both the main characters, as well as those of the students and other instructors. The story was brought to life by the wonderful writing, and I was reminded again of why I love regency romances. I will certainly be looking for other Donna MacMeans novels in the future."
The Romance Readers Connection
"The Education of Mrs. Brimley is the debut novel by Donna MacMeans and what a debut it is! Both original and charming, the book is a sensual indulgence that reveals a promising new talent in the genre."
aromancereview.com
"In The Education of Mrs. Brimley, Donna MacMeans writes a fun and fascinating tale that readers are sure to enjoy. The witty dialog between Nicholas and Emma create the atmosphere of romance and tension that builds as MacMeans has them meet for their “lessons.” Particularly enchanting are the girls of the Pettibone School who make a charming addition to the plot. Adding a little intrigue MacMeans brings in a horrible uncle selling off his niece for marriage and profit. But most wonderful is the sly way MacMeans builds the education of Emma and her sensual teacher Nicholas. Both will charm readers with their wit and bring up the temperature with their hot encounters. The Education of Mrs. Brimley is a fun historical romance."
Historical Romance Writers
"…I thought this book was fairly charming and had likable characters. The chemistry between the hero and heroine was nice and spicy as Emma had her awakening as a woman. Their developing relationship was believable and a treat to follow."
anotherbookonthestack.com
"Victorian romance fans will enjoy this fun frolic starring two likable protagonists who fall in love while he trains her in the art of love. The droll double entendres make for an intelligent amusing historical as the student teaches the teacher as much as he does her."
Genre Go Round Reviews
"…this story was fun and sexy. A good first effort, and I’ll keep an eye out for more by this author."
goodreads.com
"I loved this amusing, steamy romance. Ms. MacMeans has penned a winner with THE EDUCATION OF MRS. BRIMLEY. This is a terrific first novel. I look forward to her future books. The witty dialog, steamy situations, and appealing characters combined to form a delightful book. I highly recommend THE EDUCATION OF MRS. BRIMLEY."
Dottie Jones, RomanceJunkies.com
"This is a charming tale of love and seduction. THE EDUCATION OF MRS. BRIMLEY will have new fans craving more from Donna MacMeans. Fans will fall in love with Nicholas like I was. Emma will charm fans as well with her feisty and spunky attitude. I give this a rating of 5 Moonbeams."
Strictly Romance Reviews
"It had many twists and turns and was masterfully crafted by Ms. MacMeans. This was her first novel and I guarantee it will not be her last. It was a page turner from the very beginning and I fell in love with both Emma and Nicholas. Every emotion they felt, I felt as well. You will be quite entertained by this charming and passionate read." Score: 5 / 5 – Reviewer Top Pick
Reviewer: Diana of Night Owl Romance Reviews
Rating: A Classical Keeping – 5 Enchantments "The Education of Mrs. Brimley was a lovely surprise. More and more, it is getting harder to find a historical that teases the senses without being overtly predictable. However Donna MacMeans has done that and more."
BrandyWine, Enchanting Reviews
"In The Education of Mrs. Brimley by Donna MacMeans, the seductive exchange between Emma and Chambers is exquisitely written. It has the depth and emotional pull that showcases the author as a master storyteller. With so many people and circumstances conspiring against them, these likeable characters build a connection that’s both tender and enduring. As I was reading, I sometimes felt that Chambers was a bit of a lunkhead, but it added a dash of realism that made him a very endearing hero. This was a very enjoyable debut novel, complete with an interesting plot, a yummy bad boy hero, a menacing, devious villain and a comfortable flow. Everything is nicely balanced and a pleasure to read. I’m looking forward to more books from Ms. MacMeans." 4 ½ Lips
TwoLips Reviews (Reviewer: Lindy)