Rating: 
Summary: Sophisticated, self-consciously literary romp
Review: Like most of the reviewers of this novel below, I found this a delightful, charming book, a rewarding debut. Unlike some of the other reviewers I am not a great devourer of Romance novels. I am, however, a great devourer of historical fiction, namely of literary historical fiction, and I especially favor books about strong-willed women who, often through cross-dressing, manage to outwit and challege their contemporary society's rules. Some of these books include Patricia Duncker's confoundingly beautiful novel "The Doctor," and all three Victorian-Gothic novels by Sarah Waters. But the true reason I loved this novel was not only because, as I said before, it has a heroine who is not afraid to brook social customs and rewrite her past through dressing and living as a man. The true reason I loved this novel is because it artfully plays with two literary conventions-- the Romance novel convention, and the late 18th, early 19th century novel of manners (perhaps Jane Austen is best known for these, but certainly the canon ought to include two earlier works by women, Charlotte Lenox's delightful and satirical "Female Quixote," and Elizabeth Inchbald's bitingly clever "A Simple Story"). Rosenthal's novel makes gentle nods to Austen numerous times, but it is in the series of misunderstandings and the emotional rapport that the brilliance of her writing illuminates her project. Phoebe/Phizz and David, the heroine and hero, both lead lives that are lacking in one way or another. By becoming "Phizz" Marston, Phoebe shuts out any capacity for love and vulnerable emotions from her life. By assuming that women want only a strong (patriarchal, hegemonic) man to rescue them and marry them, David is handicapped with misogynism. Some readers below might find it difficult to believe that a Regency hero could be considered chauvinistic, or a Regency heroine who dresses as a man be realistic for the period (perhaps this reader is not familiar with the well known literary genre of cross-dressing women in 19th century lit-- Gautier's Mlle du Maupin, for instance, or George Sand herself), but in fact feminism had already begun to make its mark on English culture-- Mary Wollestonecraft's "Vindication of the Rights of Woman" had already gone through several printings, and her daughter Mary Godwin Shelley was making a name for herself as a novelist with "Valperga" and "Frankenstein." So yes, it is understandable that Phoebe would want more equality for women. What makes this novel such a delightful read is that its author is thoroughly aware that the dynamic of a romance/comedy of manners involves the education of both hero and heroine-- Elizabeth Bennett needs to learn that Darcy is a good person, and Darcy needs to learn to act more kindly to her. etc. etc. Likewise, Phoebe/"Phizz" needs to learn to allow love and uncertainty into her heart, and David needs to learn not to be so sexist. The sentimental education in this novel is both David teaching Phoebe to love, and Phoebe teaching David to respect women on their own terms. I found this both refreshing and believable. I loved this book because it took great risks with the novel of manners and Romance novel conventions, but nevertheless managed to treat its readers gently. Somehow, perhaps because of the narrator's older, experienced and somewhat wry tone (channelling Austen, perhaps?), I knew that nothing horrible was going to happen to the characters, and that depiste the dangers they faced, everyone would end up happy in the end. But I still kept turning the pages, because I wanted to find out exactly *how* the characters did end up, because I developed a genuine affection for the characters. I loved that both Phoebe and David recognized the brilliance of the poet and printer William Blake long before any of his contemporaries did (that's the fun thing about historical fiction-- you can rewrite history!), and I felt like Phoebe's laconic but precocious son reminded me of other kids I knew, wise beyond their years, and especially so from adults' perspectives. The only thing I missed was the frisson produced by cross-dressing. Why did Shakespearean audiences lie to see boys dressed as girls pretending to be boys? Because of the excitement of not knowing which was which. When David thinks he is falling for a boy for the first time (which *is* believable, and has been for time immemorial!), he struggles with his confusion, and is relieved to find out Phoebe is indeed a girl. Perhaps there are too many conservative, homophobic Romance readers out there who wouldn't appreciate erotic variety, but I know I would have liked to read more about David's assumed homosexual attraction-- maybe a David/Phizz kiss (rather than David/Phoebe) would have made this book even more exciting. Can't wait for "The Bookseller's Daughter"!
Rating: 
Summary: Not that great
Review: Rather overhyped, nothing to rave about here, just fairly ordinary writing. There's much better out there
Rating: 
Summary: A fine book -- but hardly erotic
Review: The title of the book is somewhat misleading -- this book is far less erotic than most romances these days. Aside from using a few somewhat raw words -- I won't quote them in this review, but I bet you can imagine which they are -- the story is in fact rather tame. Certainly it's less steamy than anything by Emma Holly, Lisa Kleypas or others who are considered to write "hot" romance. It is a good book, however. The writing is fine, the mystery is somewhat engaging and the setting is well detailed. The characters are nice, their love affair is nice -- the book is just plain fine -- not bad, not spectacular.
Rating: 
Summary: An interesting debut novel - some thoughts
Review: There was much interest when this novel first appeared and although it took a while for it to get to the top of the TBR pile, I did enjoy it. However, there were some issues in the story that did not work for me. Although the "cross dressing" sub-genre does not particularly appeal to me, I have read better examples (cf Georgette Heyer's These Old Shades or The Masqueraders) wherein the cross dressing and masquerading as a man seems to have some believeable raison d'etre. However, I felt in reading Almost a Gentleman that it was not wholly a credible action on the part of our heroine, Phoebe. There was never a fully acceptable explanation for her to do this and it seemed a somewhat strange reaction for her following the death of her husband and children. Instead, it appeared to be more of a device used to examine the reactions and behaviour of the hero, Lord Linseley. This was the best aspect of the book - the way he reacts to "Philip" and the soul searching it causes him. I compliment the author on her prose; excellent quality although she does let the odd Americanism slip in (e.g. "vacation" instead of "holiday") but overall, she is easy and delightful to read. With respect to the sexual aspects of the story, although her language is, in my view, too frank for the timeframe of the story, nonetheless it was galaxies ahead of the deplorable Emma Holly. I look forward to reading this author again. I don't think this was a 5 star effort but for a first novel I was very impressed and recommend this to the discerning reader.
Rating:
Summary: An interesting debut novel - some thoughts
Review: There was much interest when this novel first appeared and although it took a while for it to get to the top of the TBR pile, I did enjoy it. However, there were some issues in the story that did not work for me. Although the "cross dressing" sub-genre does not particularly appeal to me, I have read better examples (cf Georgette Heyer's These Old Shades or The Masqueraders) wherein the cross dressing and masquerading as a man seems to have some believeable raison d'etre. However, I felt in reading Almost a Gentleman that it was not wholly a credible action on the part of our heroine, Phoebe. There was never a fully acceptable explanation for her to do this and it seemed a somewhat strange reaction for her following the death of her husband and children. Instead, it appeared to be more of a device used to examine the reactions and behaviour of the hero, Lord Linseley. This was the best aspect of the book - the way he reacts to "Philip" and the soul searching it causes him. I compliment the author on her prose; excellent quality although she does let the odd Americanism slip in (e.g. "vacation" instead of "holiday") but overall, she is easy and delightful to read. With respect to the sexual aspects of the story, although her language is, in my view, too frank for the timeframe of the story, nonetheless it was galaxies ahead of the deplorable Emma Holly. I look forward to reading this author again. I don't think this was a 5 star effort but for a first novel I was very impressed and recommend this to the discerning reader.
Rating:
Summary: Just too boring...(Sorry)
Review: This book started out well enough, but I had to force myself to finish it. However, I really liked David. I had no problem with David finding himself attracted to Mr. Marston, perhaps because subconsciously I knew Marston's true identity. But David didn't, and we're reminded that no one can prevent how one feels about someone else. David was certainly troubled by this, yet in a light-hearted manner, never undignified. I thought it was a great! The author did this well.
I was disappointed by the way in which David learned Mr. Marston was a woman, though. After all the anticipation and all those pages, it turned out to be a very dull scene.
And there was so much useless detail throughout the book, and at the worst possible times. For example: We believe Phoebe and David are about to kiss, then all of a sudden the author decides to describe the doors Phoebe just closed behind her, with their French style from a preceding century, and how they are adorned with gaily colored fruit and flowers, blah blah blah, and then tries to incorporate the doors into the scene by comparing Phoebe's EYES to said doors. Never heard that comparison before.
So, with the exception of David's well-written character, this one falls flat to me.
Rating:
Summary: Loss, hidden desires and hope
Review: This story begins with Phoebe Claringworth who having been abused by her husband and although is death should be a relief. It comes at even greater cost to Phoebe the loss of her 3 year old son and an unborn child. Distraught over the loss of her children she is consoled by her best friend Lady Kate Beverredge. Phoebe and Kate have been friends for years. Kate born into a title but through a childhood illness left less than perfect in the eyes of many. Phoebe stood up for her and their friendship began. However, she learned there was more to her friend. Phoebe was born a beauty although untitled and to the Claringworth's she appeared to be the perfect wife because she was so beautiful. Her husband didn't appreciate the mind that Phoebe had. It made him insecure and feel small so the abuse began. In an effort to prove his superiority over Phoebe he raced their carriage causing the accident that killed him and the children. Phoebe heart broken and refusing to allow another man to be in control over her or to be at the mercy of her own looks cuts off all of her hair. The story picks up 3 years later with Philip "Phizz" Marston the epitomy of grace and style, but also the man who makes things happen. Those of the Ton want to join his club only Phizz makes nothing easy. Turning down man after man for anything from his shoes, mistress, the cut of his suit has Phizz on the short end of many a man's list. And someone wants Phizz dead. Threatening notes have been coming to Phizz on regular basis, but they can't be real no one would want to harm someone over such matters. Enter David Hervey, Earl of Linseley, An aristocrat farmer who stands for the people. David sees Phizz and can't take his eyes off of him. Convinced there is something wrong with him he begins to question his own reasoning. Why would he be attracted to another man, he'd never had those feelings before. David had a very comfortable marriage of friendship and caring, but not true love. His wife and he had a son and a passion they enjoyed sharing on occasion. Since her death though he sought comfort in prostitutes and debauched himself regularly. When he sees Phizz though he can't imagine anyone else. Confused and unsure he is shocked and elated to discover that Phizz isn't a man but a woman, a very attractive woman and she's been masquerading as Phizz for reasons he doesn't understand yet. What he does know is that someone is threatening Phizz who although he doesn't know her name is actually Phoebe. I'm not giving away anything by telling you that much. In order to find out who is threatening Phizz/Phoebe, David and she devise a plan for the enemies of Phizz to seek David out for possible alliances against Phizz. I can't tell you more because I don't want to give away more than I already have. I read a random scattering of books from no specific genre, but I have found that I love the Brava/Kensington books set of Historical fiction they are usually erotic romances some set in historical times. Almost A Gentleman was a wonderful surprise for me because it has the story of a woman who is distraught not over the loss of the husband but her children. Rather than put up with societies mask and having to live as a polite woman who can do nothing. She chose to live her life as a man. She'd experience many of the things as a man in hopes that she could fill the void left by the loss. It's actually very heart breaking when I think back. Phoebe tries to deny all of those things that she thinks will hurt too much. No children, no love, no commitment. Still the hurt is there though and nothing can take away her pain. The friendship of Kate and Phoebe was wonderful they were like pieces of a puzzle and each of them filled the void for the other. As Phizz, Phoebe played an adoring suitor to Kate offering her friend entry into the world she'd avoided for so long. David and Phoebe have a magical attraction and chemistry that no matter what is brought out and very hot too! I loved this book! Can't wait to read it again. Now, I'll be looking for other works by this author.
Rating:
Summary: Loss, hidden desires and hope
Review: This story begins with Phoebe Claringworth who having been abused by her husband and although is death should be a relief. It comes at even greater cost to Phoebe the loss of her 3 year old son and an unborn child. Distraught over the loss of her children she is consoled by her best friend Lady Kate Beverredge. Phoebe and Kate have been friends for years. Kate born into a title but through a childhood illness left less than perfect in the eyes of many. Phoebe stood up for her and their friendship began. However, she learned there was more to her friend. Phoebe was born a beauty although untitled and to the Claringworth's she appeared to be the perfect wife because she was so beautiful. Her husband didn't appreciate the mind that Phoebe had. It made him insecure and feel small so the abuse began. In an effort to prove his superiority over Phoebe he raced their carriage causing the accident that killed him and the children. Phoebe heart broken and refusing to allow another man to be in control over her or to be at the mercy of her own looks cuts off all of her hair. The story picks up 3 years later with Philip "Phizz" Marston the epitomy of grace and style, but also the man who makes things happen. Those of the Ton want to join his club only Phizz makes nothing easy. Turning down man after man for anything from his shoes, mistress, the cut of his suit has Phizz on the short end of many a man's list. And someone wants Phizz dead. Threatening notes have been coming to Phizz on regular basis, but they can't be real no one would want to harm someone over such matters. Enter David Hervey, Earl of Linseley, An aristocrat farmer who stands for the people. David sees Phizz and can't take his eyes off of him. Convinced there is something wrong with him he begins to question his own reasoning. Why would he be attracted to another man, he'd never had those feelings before. David had a very comfortable marriage of friendship and caring, but not true love. His wife and he had a son and a passion they enjoyed sharing on occasion. Since her death though he sought comfort in prostitutes and debauched himself regularly. When he sees Phizz though he can't imagine anyone else. Confused and unsure he is shocked and elated to discover that Phizz isn't a man but a woman, a very attractive woman and she's been masquerading as Phizz for reasons he doesn't understand yet. What he does know is that someone is threatening Phizz who although he doesn't know her name is actually Phoebe. I'm not giving away anything by telling you that much. In order to find out who is threatening Phizz/Phoebe, David and she devise a plan for the enemies of Phizz to seek David out for possible alliances against Phizz. I can't tell you more because I don't want to give away more than I already have. I read a random scattering of books from no specific genre, but I have found that I love the Brava/Kensington books set of Historical fiction they are usually erotic romances some set in historical times. Almost A Gentleman was a wonderful surprise for me because it has the story of a woman who is distraught not over the loss of the husband but her children. Rather than put up with societies mask and having to live as a polite woman who can do nothing. She chose to live her life as a man. She'd experience many of the things as a man in hopes that she could fill the void left by the loss. It's actually very heart breaking when I think back. Phoebe tries to deny all of those things that she thinks will hurt too much. No children, no love, no commitment. Still the hurt is there though and nothing can take away her pain. The friendship of Kate and Phoebe was wonderful they were like pieces of a puzzle and each of them filled the void for the other. As Phizz, Phoebe played an adoring suitor to Kate offering her friend entry into the world she'd avoided for so long. David and Phoebe have a magical attraction and chemistry that no matter what is brought out and very hot too! I loved this book! Can't wait to read it again. Now, I'll be looking for other works by this author.
Rating:
Summary: Mystery, Politics, Steamy Sex in Regency Romance
Review: William Blake makes a cameo appearance in this romance which touches all the bases and social classes of Regency England. There are grand balls, country houses, foggy London lanes, gambling clubs, country inns, and lots of steamy sex and even a little violence. Thanks to Pam Rosenthal's literary style which features multiple narrative arcs, including the political issues of the day, "Almost a Gentleman" is a great read even for readers, like myself, who are not addicted to the genre.
Rating:
Summary: Mystery, Politics, Steamy Sex in Regency Romance
Review: William Blake makes a cameo appearance in this romance which touches all the bases and social classes of Regency England. There are grand balls, country houses, foggy London lanes, gambling clubs, country inns, and lots of steamy sex and even a little violence. Thanks to Pam Rosenthal's literary style which features multiple narrative arcs, including the political issues of the day, "Almost a Gentleman" is a great read even for readers, like myself, who are not addicted to the genre.
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