The Nature of a Lady

THE NATURE OF A LADY is the first novel in the Secrets of the Isles series by ROSEANNA M WHITE, and I cannot wait for the next one! With a history of smugglers, the search for treasure, "sightings" on Samson Island and the far fetched tales of old Tas-gwynn Gilbert, the stage is set for excitement and intrigue. Add to this the confusion between the two Elizabeths and at least two rogue factions who are trying to find the treasure, and you have an interesting and nail biting plot.
Lady Elizabeth Sinclair does not have a good self image. Being more interested in science and plants than making an impression in society, she is delighted when her maid, Mabena Moon, suggests they hire a cottagel on St Mary's, an island in the Scillies, for the summer where she can indulge her passion for botany and the outdoors and hopefully give the irritating Lord Sheridan, who her brother has chosen for her to marry, time to forget all about her.
Oliver Tremayne, vicar and botanist, who she met two years previously, lives on Tresco Island and they become re-aquainted when he comes to the cottage to look for his sister Beth, who has disappeared. Will he be able to convince Libby that science and faith in God do not need to be at odds?
There are so many interesting characters, for example Mamm-wynn, Oliver's grandmother, who seems to live in another world and who takes to Libby immediately.
I like to see the way the author contrasts the people of the island, who are all part of one large and mostly loving family, with society families who are tied up in useless pursuits and look down on anyone they feel is beneath them.
I will not tell you any more of the story as I do not want to spoil things for you.
It is a delightful and inspirational read and one I can highly recommend.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers,. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

"1906

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.

Oliver Tremayne - gentleman and clergyman - is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage...especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.

As Libby and Oliver work together, they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love."

Ah, an idyll escape to Italy, with pirates thrown in!

This. Book. Is. Fantastic.

I've read a number of White's books over the years, and a few have stood out as downright exceptional; notably, 'The Codebreakers' and 'Shadows over England' series in particular. 'The Nature of a Lady,' White's newest release and first book in the 'Secrets of the Isles' series (YAY new series!), is absolutely the latest addition to that shortlist.

Part mystery, part romance, with a good bit of theology entwined within both--this read is a feast for the senses. A perfect read during a pandemic, allowing the reader to escape their lockdown status if even for a short while (and, perhaps, mentally plan their next post-pandemic trip?).

Highly recommended, especially for fans of the aforementioned series. White has hit another high note with this release. (And can I say how beautiful the cover is, too?!)

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

I found the Isles of Scilly in The Nature of a Lady an interesting setting. When Libby escapes the rule laden society she lives in and takes her lady’s maid with her to the islands to explore the flora and fauna, she’s awakened to a life where she can be herself. This book is full of mystery, adventure and romance. With many layers and fascinating characters, Roseanna White has created a tale to savor. The descriptions gave me a feel for the islands, creating an image of life on the sea. The characters, from Oliver’s Mamm-wynn to Libby’s bossy brother, Bram, interlace to make a lovely story of family, faith, and love. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Nature of A Lady by Rosanna White is set in 1906 on the Isles of Scilly. Lady Elizabeth Sinclair is fascinated with microscopes and nature. Which sets her apart from society. She and her maid holiday for the summer on St. Mary's Island. The former cottage resident is also named Elizabeth, who has vanished.

Oliver Tremayne, a vicar and brother of the missing Elizabeth, meets up with Libby. Which starts a hunt for Beth and the mystery surrounding her disappearance.

There are stories and legends about ghosts and pirates. Which appears to try to draw one in. There was an abundance of explanations that might have been shortened just a bit. But I really enjoyed the third part of the book, with a clear gospel message and enemies making peace with one another.

I have enjoyed Rosanna's other books. Her writing style has always been very engaging. This one was nice, interesting setting, mostly good characters and sound faith message.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Net Galley and the publisher. All views expressed are my honest opinion.

The Nature of a Lady, by Roseanna M. White, is a tale set in the early 1900s. Lady Elizabeth Sinclair is looking to escape her brother's attempts to marry her off. Her lady's maid, Mabena, has the perfect solution. A summer vacation on the isle of St. Mary's: a favorite vacation spot for many in the upper class!

From the moment Elizabeth (Libby) sets foot on this island, mysteries seems to flourish. First, the cottage that Libby rented has been recently abandoned by another Elizabeth (Beth) and this woman is now missing. Next, she meets Oliver Tremayne, a local clergyman who has come to the island to discover the whereabouts of his sister, Beth. Libby had met Oliver earlier in her life and found in him a kindred-spirit. You soon get the sense that this spirit is still alive and thriving!

This is an interesting tale to follow, as these three make their way around the islands looking for Beth. You will learn a lot of interesting truths about all three by the end of this tale!

I received an e-copy of this book from netgalley.com.

I have been a longtime fan of Roseanna White's novels. Her Shadows over England and The Codebreakers are a couple of my all-time favorite series. The Secrets of the Isles series promise to have a different type story, yet one that will surely please its reader's hearts.

With an eclectic cast of characters and vivid descriptions that will fuel the imagination, this captivating story has set a high bar of excellence for the rest of the series. Ms. White crafts an intoxicating blend of mystery, tales of pirate treasure spun from legends of old, stunning setting and a sweet romance delicately laced with the faith thread I have come to expect in her stories.

I loved Libby's strive for independence, her journey of faith. But a couple of other characters that I simply adored were Mamm-wyn and Benna. I definitely treasure the nuggets of wisdom dropped by the older cast of characters, but I also found Benna's strength of character and past intriguing. Hoping to find them both gracing the pages of future stories in the series.

It was with a satisfied smile that I turned the last page, knowing I would be able to visit the Scilly Islands again. This is a book for the keeper shelf. Highly recommend!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

"The Nature of a Lady" was an enjoyable read - not precisely as I expected, but it was a good surprise nonetheless!

The story takes place in 1906, but it nearly has a more ancient feel as it is based in the Scillies islands (near Cornwall), which is a rather isolated place.

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, a young women more at ease in the middle of nature than among the upper class, decides to spend the summer in the Scillies with her maid Mabena (who I am surprised in not mentioned in the summary, for she plays a rather important role). Libby moves into a small cottage who was previously rented by her namesake, Elizabeth "Beth", and soon starts receiving mysterious packages in their name. It quickly appears that "Beth", the sister of Reverend Oliver, has disappeared while looking for a long-lost treasured while a young man is found dead. On her quest to resolve Beth's mystery, Libby gets to know the island and its inhabitants to whom she quickly feels attached - and reciprocally. But back home, her brother doesn't know that she left for the summer, and he will soon come to bring her back and try to marry her off to his friend...

Something I especially enjoyed in the book was the description of the islands - I really want to visit them, now! As I am a little curious, I had a look online at the Abbey Garden mentioned in the book, and I am very impressed by their beauty - I understand why Libby and Oliver love this place. I wish they would have spend more time there, though, and that Libby's interest in nature was a bit deeper. I felt it was more of an excuse to give a background (and/or a very nice pun in the title) than a really important part of the story. And although I liked Libby, I felt her character could have also been a bit more intricate - she's rather "flat", apart from her growing interest in religion - which happens rather fast and which is not something I'm personally interested in. Oliver and Mabena were on the contrary interesting protagonists with more interesting personalities. The secondary characters, such as Mamm-wynn, were also nicely developed, although I would have like to know a bit more about Beth. I guess we will get to know her better in the following books of the "Secrets of the Isles" series, which I am looking forward to discovering hopefully soon!

The plot was interesting; there wasn't too heavy a mystery but still it gave something to follow all along and made the story a bit more intriguing. I liked that, in spite of the old treasure, there was no alternance between two times in history (apart from the very beginning - I didn't really get why a prologue was included, but why not).

Overall, this was an enjoyable read which I recommend.

*I received an eARC of this book and this is my honest opinion*

An enchanting story from Roseanna M. White! The Nature of a Lady is inspirational, soul-stirring, and wonderfully romantic. I absolutely loved the charming, intriguing setting, and I can’t wait to continue reading about these characters!

I’ll admit, it took a little while for the story to grab me, but once it did I was completely hooked. There were times I didn’t feel like I knew Libby and Oliver as well as I could have, but I grew to love their inspiring personalities and eccentricities. White has an incredible knack for creating intensely relatable characters; I adored the side stories and am so eager to learn more about these people I feel like I know in real life.

The Nature of a Lady is not to be missed. Readers will be captured by White’s exquisite prose and impeccable talent for crafting a riveting tale. This is a wonderful beginning to a series I cannot wait to continue. 4.5/5 stars

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This is one of my favorite authors and this read sure does not disappoint. Quaint island cottages, pirates, treasure, and a free summer before her life is supposed to change forever. This is the freedom that Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair is offered and approved of by her mother, and the suggestion comes from her maid Mabena Moon [love the name], and we find out why. What an ideal place for this young woman who loves nothing better than to study the fauna in this subtropical climate.

We are given a bit of everything here, including a Love of God, and a love of family, along with danger, and a bit of romance thrown in.

In the end, I loved the decisions made and how things worked out, and now I can't wait to return!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

What a lovely first book in The Secrets of the Isles! The Nature of a Lady takes place in 1909 on the Isles of Scilly, a beautiful place I was not aware existed, now on my bucket list of places to visit!

Author Roseanna M White with her skillful pen draws you into this compelling story of belonging, and personal growth, where the main characters encounter mystery, danger, humor, and romance. I loved it!

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair longs for a break from societal expectations, she has different interests and gifts than most women in her social set. Her mother and brother allow her to travel with her lady's maid Mabena to the Isles of Scilly for a relaxing vacation near Mabena's hometown. Libby is a nature lover and brings her sketch pad & microscope to study the unique flowers and plants that grow there. Here she meets warm and welcoming people who are undeterred by her title and treat her the same as everyone else. She thrives in this setting and meets Oliver Tremayne, another botanist and nature lover. They are drawn into the mystery of finding his missing sister. Excellent character development, descriptions of the beautiful islands, and a great cast of secondary characters. I especially loved Oliver's grandma Mamm-wynn, Mabena, Casek, Sheridan, and Elizabeth's brother Lord Telford.

Some of my favorite quotes from The Nature of a Lady:
"How lovely to just be who you were meant to be."

"I was planted in a garden in which I don't belong. And I don't know how to flourish there anymore."

"And so, we learn what we can and make the best decision possible, do the work to the best of our ability, tend it with care. And we pray, trusting that the Master Gardener will bless our efforts."

I highly recommend The Nature of a Lady, and I cannot wait for the next story in this series! Thank you to the publisher, and net galley for allowing me to read an early copy. All opinions are my own.

Happy sigh, this was such a good book! I have been loving Roseanna M White’s books, and this book was no different. The Nature of a Lady is the first book in Roseanna M White’s new series The Secrets of the Isles. This was such a cute book with lovable characters. I loved the story line, and I couldn’t put it down.
Lady Elizabeth Sincalir, Libby, didn’t fit in with society or those around her. She loved microscopes and science, and she greatly disliked going out into society. She flees to the Isles of Scilly and finds a dangerous mystery left behind by a girl named Elizabeth who mysteriously vanished. Oliver Tremayne, gentleman and clergyman, is determined to find his sister. He’s happy to accept the help of the girl who is now living in the cottage that Beth his sister lived in. As he spends time with Libby, he remembers when he first met her two years ago, a girl who loved botany and science as much as he did. But the hunt for his sister is more daunting than he could have imagined.
I loved Libby, she was a lovely person and yet she was also on the edge of society. I think one of the reasons I liked Libby was because she was so relatable. She didn’t quite fit in and that made it hard for her. However, going to the Isles, it was like she found herself. It was super sweet to read about Libby finding her wings. She learned to find her place in life and accept herself. But she also had to learn what it meant to have a Creator who didn't make mistakes. A Creator that loved her for who she was.
Oliver was such a good guy, you couldn’t help but like him. He greatly cared for those around him and he felt the responsibility of leading his family well. Sigh, I just really liked him and I wanted him to be happy. It was super cute to read about him with Libby, I feel like he fell for her from the beginning. However, Oliver was also struggling with finding his place. He was looking for the person who completed him. He was weary, and Libby completed him
Wow, the story line was amazing! I didn't know what was going to happen or what was going on. I ended up staying up late to finish it, it was that good! Oliver and Libby were surrounded by the mystery of where Beth went and the secrets she was chasing. As they spent time together, they started to fall for each other. But will the secret’s Beth is hiding keep them apart? And will their love survive their different stations?
I loved the characters and the hints of other books! I am eagerly waiting for the next books. I need to know what happens next. But don’t worry this does have HEA. I have to say that this was another winner, I am excited to see what comes next in this series! The Nature of a Lady was a wonderful book and I would totally recommend it! The Nature of a Lady is a clean, historical romance with hints of a mystery.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.

"He knows your name. Your true name, the one at the heart of you that has never been spoken. He knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness...He knows how you fit into this world."

What a delightful start to the Secrets of the Isles series! Roseanna White is a master storyteller who weaves a fascinating tale with intriguing plot infused with mystery and suspense, witty dialogue among the 1900 English nobility and commonfolk, lovable characters who are diverse in background and interests, and deeply profound spiritual truths. The central theme of 'to know and be known' is beautifully laid out in the plot and in the characters' lives. This book has more mystery and shroud of intrigue surrounding the plot than her previous books and the plot has some nicely placed twists. If you enjoy historical fiction with a side of pirates and treasure-hunting, you will absolutely adore this book.

Libby is an unusual earl's sister - a naturalist with a keen scientific mind and a refreshing innocence, sweetness, and tenderness. She feels lost in her world until she comes to the Isles of Scilly. Oliver is a vicar on the islands who is truly lovely - so compassionate, caring, and loving. They're brought together when Oliver's sister goes missing and Libby becomes embroiled in the mystery and danger surrounding her disappearance. Mabena, Libby's maid, and Casek, Oliver's life-long nemesis, are fun and their relationship adds a different dimension to the plot. I can't wait for the next books in the series to get to know the other characters better.

I received a copy of the book from Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.

When I was asked to join the launch team for The Nature of a Lady I was thrilled, but I also did not know what to expect. I have never read one of Roseanna M. White’s stories, but this story was instantly captivating! I loved how unexpectedly fun it was. I loved the idea of so many girls being named Elizabeth. That was a plot that I have not read before which was wonderful. This story is different from others because it takes the idea of mistaken identity to a whole new level. It combines mistaken identity with adventure and romance which is just an amazing combination. I am always looking for wholesome books and this story definitely fits into that category. The romance is delightful and uplifting! If you love adventure, pirates, nature, romance, and mistaken identities this is the story for you. I highly recommend this story because it is captivating the whole time and uplifting. As one of the main characters is a reverend religion is to be expected, but the religion aspects were uplifting and hopeful rather than forceful. If you want a delightful and intriguing read this is the story for you!

Lady Elizabeth Sinclair and her ladies’ maid, Mabena Moon, escape on holiday to the Isles of Scilly. It’s 1906, and Libby doesn’t fit in. She’d rather look through a microscope than flirt over her fan. But her brother has declared she’ll marry his best friend, Lord Sheridan. Libby abhors the thought of marrying a man who ruins nature to dig for artifacts.

When Moon suggests spending the summer on St. Mary, Libby hopes Lord Sheridan will drop the idea of a wedding. As long as her brother doesn’t find out her whereabouts, she should have a carefree summer to categorize, paint, and study.

Upon arriving at the tiny cottage by the sea, Libby realizes the former occupant, also named Elizabeth, has left in a hurry. The next day, a mysterious man leaves her a cannonball. Later the same day, a different man delivers a letter addressed to Elizabeth to the cottage.

Oliver Tremayne—gentleman and vicar on the Island of Tresco in the Scillies, can’t understand why his sister, Beth, has failed to keep her promise of writing twice a week. Fearing something has happened to her, he goes to her cottage on nearby St. Mary, only to discover his sister missing and a different Elizabeth in residence.

An Elizabeth he met briefly two years ago who shares his love for botany, Latin, and categorizing nature. A woman he’s never forgotten.

Can Libby, Mabena, and Oliver find the missing Elizabeth before something horrible happens to her? And how can a vicar fall in love with a scientific woman who has big questions about God?

What I Love About this Book

While not a scientist, I can relate to Libby’s aversion to polite society and love of nature. She struggles to reconcile a personal God who cares with the order science claims comes from evolution.
White has created a charming cast of characters fully of whimsy who balance out the scientists. She includes intrigue, mystery, family feuds, and charming details of life on a small group of islands off the coast of Cornwall. Readers will fall in love with both the setting and the characters. I couldn’t put the book down and felt sad when it ended because now, I’ll have to wait for the next book in The Secrets of the Isle series.

Fans of Sarah E. Ladd, Michele Griep, and Kristi Ann Hunter will enjoy this book

In The Nature of a Lady, we follow the story of Libby, short for Elizabeth, as she feels stifled by society and her family, and decided to take a break to the Scilly Islands, where she can pursue her biology studies without hindrance. Or at least, that’s what she thought, because soon she discovers that another Elizabeth who stayed in the cottage before her has gone missing, and weird things are happening when some people think she is the missing girl...

A trope that never tires is the mistaken identity trope, it’s just so much fun! And very intruiging, as you try to find out what’s going on alongside Libby. It seems everyone has secrets, including her maid who she is actually friends with, and a kind vicar that is the other Elizabeth’s brother, who helps her but seems to hold something back.

But it’s not just an adventure, there is much depth in this book. All the characters are fleshed out with their own wants and personalities (and there are quite a lot!) and the feel of this island is just truly magical. You might even begin to believe in pirate treasure... there are spiritual lessons too, as Libby slowly starts to believe and trust in God. And Oliver has so much kindness and love for everyone, it’s amazing to witness. Her fiery stubborn maid Mabena is very much fun, and plays a big role in the story - her heated arguments with her nemesis Casek make me chuckle. Oh, and Mamm-wyn is the sweetest person, she deserves her own novel. I love how Roseanna M. White uses what we think of as disability and shows how she is so much more than her dementia.

All in all, I really liked the story. The mystery was really good, the pacing and writing too. I have to admit, I personally liked the Shadows over England series better, those books really spoke to me, where this one feels more like entertainment all in all. Nothing wrong with that though, and I liked it very much!

I received a free e-copy from Netgalley but this hasn’t influenced my opinion.

Exciting new series by this author, this one starts us off with a brief prologue set in the 1600’s then starts the regular story off in 1900. We meet Libby (Elizabeth) Sinclair, her mother and her maid Moon (Mabena Moon) as they embark on a boat ride to the Scillies Isles, where they will be staying on the one named St. Mary. There they discover another Elizabeth had been staying in the same cottage but had up and left. We also meet Ollie Tremayne (Oliie), his grandmother (Mann-wyn), grandfather (Tas-gwyn), Casek Wearne, Enyon, Lord Sinclair, Bram Telford (Elizabeth’s brother), Charlotte Wight, (Lottie), Emily Scofield, Oliver’s sister Elizabeth (Beth) and a few others island residents. This story draws you right in with Libby’s interest in flora and fauna and being excited to draw and study specimens on the Isles. Oliver is the Vicar of the island Tresco, where Moon is from. We are quickly brought into the mystery of the cabin that was left, though the person’s belongings are still there. Looking forward to what mysteries the rest of this series bring us.
A complimentary copy was provided by Bethany House. A review was not required and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

In the first installment of her newest series, The Secrets of the Isles, Roseanna M. White transports her readers to the fascinating history, culture, and geography of the Scilly Isles off the southwestern tip of England. The Nature of a Lady's heroine, Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, hasn't ever felt that she belongs among London's society and decides to spend an idyllic summer in the Isles with her maid. When she arrives at her cottage, however, she discovers its former occupant has mysteriously vanished. Libby and her maid, who hails from the Isles, join with the missing girl's brother, the dashing Oliver Tremayne, to find her. The team wade through ancient legends, treasure maps, and forbidding caves and castles as the search becomes more fascinating and dangerous. What will they discover about the nature of science, history, faith and love?
The Nature of a Lady is nothing short of White at her finest. I adored her Ladies of the Manor series (A Lady Unrivaled, The Reluctant Duchess, The Lost Heiress), liked her Shadows over England series, and tolerated her Codebreakers series, but if this first installment is any indication, I may soon have a new favorite. The characters were believable and dynamic, the plot was fast paced and full of adventure, and her overarching theme of finding the difficult balance between faith and science was compelling. I'll be anxiously awaiting the next novel and a return trip to the Scilly Isles!

I received a free copy from the publisher. No review was required, and all opinions are my own.

The Nature of a Lady by Susanna White was another great read. I thoroughly enjoy how she makes her characters different and quirky. Libby has a love for nature that makes her not fit in. I enjoyed that her family loved her and wanted to protect her in their own way. Some of my favorite scenes where with her and Oliver’s grandma. Don’t you want to feel that the place knows your name?

Oliver was so accepting of her quirks and they seemed perfect for each other. Oliver is trying to find his sister and realizes that Libby has been mistaken for her.

White has a unique ability to draw you into the story and care about the characters.

My favorite part of the book was when the author shared that their would be more books about the characters and how she came about the story.

I received this book from Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review.
You can see my full review at More Than a Review dot com where I rate the level of sex, violence, language and drug/alcohol use in books.

ABSOLUTELY ENTHRALLED WITH THIS STORY

Having 4 Elizabeths noted in the story was such a fun concept (especially if one's middle name happens to be that as well -smile). As the layers of the mystery developed and eventually unfolded, getting to know the characters was something I truly enjoyed. What made them more interesting was my initial judgment of some of them changed later on as I came to understand them better; they were not predictable. Oliver's 95-year-old grandmother is something special. And his grandfather, filled with kindness and tall tales was just what you'd want. I also liked Darling, the kitten. Libby and Oliver truly seem to "fit" without even having to try which made the reading of their story all the more pleasant.

Favorite Quote: "Everyone in the Scillies knew that when Oliver Tremayne took hold of your arm and looked deep into your eyes, he saw right down to your soul."

Tea Quote: "...his hands accepted by rote the mug of piping hot tea someone passed him. Old Mrs. Gillis always had it ready for the racers when they got back."

I give this a hearty 5 stars and am happy to recommend it, with thanks to the publisher and author for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own without compensation or expectation.

The author has shared some lovely descriptions and photos of The Abbey Gardens that are featured in the book here: https://www.roseannamwhite.com/2021/04/a-tour-of-the-abbey-gardens.html which can only add to the overall impression of the story.

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The first thing that came to my mind after finishing Roseanna M. White's The Nature of a Lady was that I was so glad that this is going to be a series. I was nowhere near ready to say goodbye to these characters by the end of the story, and I'm only sorry that it's taken me this long to finally pick up a novel by this extremely talented storyteller.

Roseanna's newest release is set on the Isles of Scilly in 1906, and the atmosphere is beautifully described and built up to almost be a character in its own right. We follow the plight of Lady Elizabeth Sinclair, who struggles to meet the expectations that her family and society have of her, and instead is more comfortable being known as Libby and studying the earth and all of its secrets around her. When her and her lady's maid Mabena vacation on the Isles of Scilly for the summer, a case of mistaken identity causes a whirlwind of events to come their way that neither could have ever been prepared for. Lost treasure, budding romance and historical legends and stories all become a vibrant part of this beautiful story as Libby must learn how to come to terms with who God desires her to be, and attempt to follow the longings of her heart, despite her family's opinions on the matter.

Libby and Oliver's relationship is probably one of the sweetest romances I've ever read, and I loved each and every second of it. Oliver's character adds so much extra dimension to the story, and I love how his faith journey is tied up in needing to learn to truly love his enemies and trust what God is telling him to do. Libby is such an inspirational leading lady, and I found myself rooting for her right from the very first few pages. And as if the main characters themselves weren't enough, the cast of secondary characters all soon endeared themselves to me, and I'm looking forward to reading more about each and every one of them in the books to come.

I truly think this one has something for everyone, and I loved how deeply the faith element is wound throughout the entire story, and each character's individual journey. Roseanna M. White has hit it out of the ballpark with this beautiful historical romance, and I can't wait to see where she chooses to take the story in the upcoming books in the series. Part adventure novel, part Christian romance and part tales of pirates and legends, The Nature of a Lady is unlike anything I've ever read before, and I highly recommend checking it out.

Final Rating: 5/5.

Thanks so much to Bethany House for allowing me to advance read and review this!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I am a huge fan of Roseanna M. White's writings and I have only recently come to realize how many of her books are in my collection of favorites. There is not a book of Ms. White's that I have read and not thoroughly enjoyed. The Nature of a Lady maintains that high standard.  I appreciate how Ms. White's works are full of adventure, intrigue, and romance without the plot feeling rushed. Ms. White has excellently developed characters, and I believe the way she slowly leads her characters along the storyline allows the readers to appreciate them more.  I don't think that there are many authors in the Christian fiction genre that have the same skillful writing abilities that Ms. White has. I thoroughly appreciate her writings and I absolutely enjoyed The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White and would highly recommend it.
The Nature of a Lady weaves a tale of mystery, romance, adventure, and sweet whimsicalness that is hard to describe in just a few words.  I will try at the very least to share some reasons that I enjoyed The Nature of a Lady as well as a brief summary.  The main focus of the book is on an unusual young woman, Lady Elizabeth Sinclair, who is not the typical high society lady of the early 1900s.  Lady Elizabeth, or Libby as she prefers to be known, loves the exploration of nature and every aspect of science.  I personally related to Libby and thoroughly enjoyed how Ms. White created such a unique, but relatable heroine. Libby is often found with her eyes behind her microscope, examining the world in the only way she knows how. 
After Libby is faced with the well-meaning, but unwanted pressure from her family to marry, she escapes to summer in the Isles of Scilly. While there, Libby is quickly entangled into a mysterious hunt for pirate treasure due to a case of mistaken identity. Libby wonders who the other Elizabeth is, where she disappeared to, and what kind of danger she is now neck-deep in. 
The mysterious disappearance of the "other Elizabeth" prods Libby's insatiable curiosity and leads her to discover some great adventure, danger, true friendships, and possibly even genuine love.  While I truly appreciate and relate to the characters in this book, another aspect of The Nature of a Lady that I loved was the way Ms. White brought her characters to have faith in God. Some authors include faith into the plot as more of an afterthought, while others add more spiritual references than normal to the storyline. I appreciated how Ms. White brought a balance between the two extremes. She excellently led her readers along with the main character's dilemmas and realizations of faith, without the circumstances and struggles seeming overdone or implausible.
I also appreciated the supporting characters that Ms. White brought to Libby's life and how they accepted her and helped Libby find her place in life. I particularly enjoyed the surprisingly perfect counterpart to Libby found in the heroic gentleman and pastor, Oliver Tremayne. What an interesting pairing of the scientist and the spiritual leader as Oliver and Libby join in the search for the missing Elizabeth as well as pirate gold. It was a very unique and unexpected pairing of characters, but the result was very sweet and added to the complexity of the plot. I also appreciated Ms. White's attention to her context and setting for the story. The island setting and historic time was well developed and accentuated the intrigue and sense of adventure present throughout this work. Overall, The Nature of a Lady was an excellent book with wonderfully developed characters, a fascinating setting, as well as enough adventures and suspense to keep the reader always guessing. I highly recommend this work and hope that you have the chance to enjoy it as much as I do. Happy readings!
Disclaimer: Bethany House Publisher graciously provided me with a copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions are my own and part of an unbiased review.

This book is a pleasant and enjoyable read. It is a sweet, Christian HR, which is not something I typically choose to read. I was lured by the promise of a Sicilian setting, which turned out was an Isles of Scilly (off the coast of Cornwall) setting, during the early 1900’s. Though it wasn’t Sicily, as I anticipated, it was a fun and interesting setting.

There was a bit of mystery and intrigue to this story, and the romance was smoothly integrated. I liked both the leads, Elizabeth and Oliver. I thought they were fairly well drawn, with human flaws rather than too-good-to-be-true, boring leads. Elizabeth is a lady with an interest in Botany. Her brother is pressuring her to marry, so she convinces her family to let her take a holiday on the Isles of Scillies, where her maid is from, before deciding. Oliver is the Vicar on one of the bigger islands and cousin to Elizabeth’s maid. There was a good cast of secondary characters.

The mystery involved a case of mistaken identity, missing persons, possibility of a ghost and the possibility of buried pirate treasure. It was an engaging story, and the narrative was strong. I would read more in this series or by this author. I recommend if looking for a kisses-only HR with some intrigue in the plot.

<I>Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this book. Views are my own.

I am ecstatic about this new series by Roseanna White, with a refreshing new setting and new friends (characters) that I look forward to knowing better over the next few books.

Libby is a wonderful character. She's honest about who she is (and who she isn't) and how she looks at life, and she has a kind heart. She can be shy, but she longs for true friends and is stressed out by superficial conversation and conflict. She is a classic introvert and it was so refreshing to read an introverted character who didn't hate people, but longs for a true friend. I could appreciate her and Benna's friendship subplot from two different angles, both as someone who has longed for friendship and someone who has had her heartbroken and thus closed herself off to friendships. It was interesting watching that story unfold.

I loved the way they navigated topics of science vs faith and the fact that they don't have to be in opposition to each other. YES! This is not talked about enough in the Christian realm.
I am ecstatic about this new series by Roseanna White, with a refreshing new setting and new friends (characters) that I look forward to knowing better over the next few books.

Libby is a wonderful character. She's honest about who she is (and who she isn't) and how she looks at life, and she has a kind heart. She can be shy, but she longs for true friends and is stressed out by superficial conversation and conflict. She is a classic introvert and it was so refreshing to read an introverted character who didn't hate people, but longs for a true friend. I could appreciate her and Benna's friendship subplot from two different angles, both as someone who has longed for friendship and someone who has had her heartbroken and thus closed herself off to friendships. It was interesting watching that story unfold.

I loved the way they navigated topics of science vs faith and the fact that they don't have to be in opposition to each other. YES! This is not talked about enough in the Christian realm.

The importance of names and how God knows us completely. I loved this because of the way the author explained God in a way the scientifically minded heroine would relate to.

Between the new characters and setting, the mystery, the treasure hunting, the romance, and the history this made for a super fun read and I am very excited to read the supporting characters' stories in the upcoming books.

I received an advanced copy of this book for the purpose of reviewing it. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

I loved the main characters, Oliver and Libby. Their quirks, how White described their appearances so vividly, Libby’s dislike for society’s expectations and Oliver, the clergyman. Not your typical clergyman. And the setting was just beautiful—the Isles of Scilly. I found White’s note at the end fascinating. While at times I found things a bit farfetched (which I actually don’t mind in fiction) I was surprised and intrigued by what White revealed as fact and fiction in her author’s note. So don’t skip that!

I did find the story to be a bit slow moving to start, for me anyway. It took quite a while for the tension to grip me.

However, I fully enjoyed White’s way of developing her characters. Not only does White have a fabulous voice as an author, but her characters, in their own POV’s are so distinct.

Of course, I did miss spies, secret identities and code breaking from the Shadows Over England series and The Code Breakers series. But there was an identity twist in The Nature of a Lady that was quite fun, and I enjoyed the change from WW1 to earlier in the century.

My favorite things about this novel: the sweet love story and the faith thread. When you have a vicar as a main character, you expect a strong faith thread. White always delivers a well thought out (and not preachy, in my opinion) faith thread in her novels and I enjoyed the journey of this one.

Note: I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher for my honest thoughts.

*Warnings*

#1 This is a long review, so pull up a chair and grab a bowl of popcorn. You’ll be here awhile. #2 When I read a review, I want substantial information. So I will not skimp on the details. Which may mean some spoilers, so watch out.




Stars: 5+


Synopsis: Lady Elizabeth Sinclair had planned on running from a marriage arranged by her older brother—only, upon her arrival to the Scillies, she realizes that she may have run straight into the arms of danger...and maybe even the arms of love.


Favorite Quote: All of them!!! But if I have to pick just one…

“He knows your name. Not Libby, not Elizabeth Sinclair. Your true name, the one at the heart of you that has never been spoken. He knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness. You, in all that makes you different from others. You, in all that you have in common with them. He knows you, and He calls you by name. He knows how you fit into this world.”




I have read all but one of Roseanna M. White’s books. I’ve read her biblical fiction, Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland (as in, before it became A Heart’s Revolution), both the Culper Rings and Ladies of the Manor series twice, her two short stories, and for the last four years, I have been quite literally devouring every single new book she writes the moment I can get my hands on it.

I know the streets of London like the back of my hand, the ins and outs of high society, the best way to remain hidden in shadows whilst spying on Redcoats. I keep Camden and Lukas and Samuel on my bed because they are hands-down three of the best ever heroes. I’ve done the whole off-again/on-again relationship with White’s novels for so long—loving some, disliking others, being wholly engrossed in everything she writes anyway.

After On Wings of Devotion, I thought it couldn’t get any better. And for a while, it didn’t. A Portrait of Loyalty was good, but certainly not my favorite. Dreams of Savannah was amazing, and I loved the portrayal of the Civil War (and, more importantly, Southerners), but it was missing some little something that would have hoisted it to the #1 spot.

Then The Nature of a Lady showed up, and boy howdy, it got better!

I mean, Oliver isn’t Camden or Cayton. Libby isn’t Ara or Zip. It wasn’t as intriguing as the Culper Rings, as mysterious as The Codebreakers, as exciting as Shadows Over England. It wasn’t as romantic as On Wings of Devotion or A Lady Unrivaled. It wasn’t as raw as A Stray Drop of Blood or as powerful as A Soft Breath of Wind. It wasn’t as political or cultural as Dreams of Savannah.

But, y’all. Y’all. Y’all. Y’ALL. y a l l . . .

(I will devise a million different ways to write y’all.)

this book was perfect

there i said it

(Now you may dis me for not using periods or proper capitalization.)

IT WAS EVERYTHING. All of it, all at once.

Raw emotion, Holy Ghost power, mystery and intrigue, PIRATES, sugary sweet, tender romance—times two! I mean, I honestly don’t know what to say.

Let me put it like this:

Libby was an amazing heroine. No, she was not my favorite of White’s heroines. No, she wasn’t perfect. No, I didn’t feel for her like I do Charity O’Connor or Eliyana Ember. But she was different, unique—but not in an overbearing way. She wasn’t trying to be unique. She just was. And I mean that from an author’s point-of-view. Her character wasn’t forced or contrived. White wasn’t confining her to a strict idea of how her character should be to move the plot along. Libby was natural, graceful, flowing. That’s really what I liked about her. I got a little upset with her over the whole science/evolution thing, but she was never forceful about it—toward other characters or in her own mind.

Ugh. I’m not making any sense.

Let me just compare her to Margot. Margot is probably one of my least favorite White heroines (I know, I know; everybody else likes her...I just have to be the odd one out, okay?). She wouldn’t depend on God or surrender herself to Him. She forced her opinions and views on other people (no matter if they were right or wrong). She had her strengths, yes. But I couldn’t get past her weaknesses to appreciate her good qualities.

But Libby? She was like a Margot do-over for me—same goes for Oliver with Drake. She was a softer, gentler, kinder, more mature version of Margot. Libby was so kind and unassuming—like Arabella. But also intelligent and progressive like Margot—just not to the point of being annoying.

Yes, she committed the great sin of rebelling from authority (yes, that’s the great feminist sin in my mind; it’s really a matter of morals and scripture rather than opinion). But I feel like she handled the situation better. And that’s really all I have to say about that. Libby was just better than Margot. There.

Can I just say, though, that she had that insightful, tenderhearted air of Arabella that just made her all the more perfect? I mean, can you imagine Margot saying something like this to Drake?

“It’s you that see people, Oliver. Sees them truly, sees them clearly. Sees them with purpose—and that purpose is to care.”

She truly cared for Oliver and wanted to help him see what a good man he was—and where he needed to change. And she loved Mamm-wynn and Mabena and even her brother (I think). Her compassion and love for people was there, which was so beautiful to witness.

And Oliver?

Ugh.

He was just so...Oliver.

Like, I shouldn’t like him, because he’s nice and calm and too perfect. He’s not Cam. He’s another one of White’s too-perfect, too-sweet, too-handsome, too-kind, too-loving, too-darn-beautiful heroes. Like Peter, Drake, Thad, Brice, Samuel—all of those adorable munchkins. (Yes, I just called them munchkins. Don’t give me that look.)

But here’s the thing, guys.

I liked Oliver.

More than that, I loved him as much as I love Peter and Samuel (because those are the munchkins I was referring to, not Drake and Thad).

Why? Because he had his faults too. Not his insecurities—Peter and Sam and Brice and all had insecurities, not faults.

Oliver quite literally had faults. Not to mention he was extremely sarcastic (which is actually not a fault, believe it or not).

To prove my point, cue my favorite Oliver quotes:

“Isn’t it tiring, being such a blighter all the time?”

“I’m right and they’re wrong.”

“Well, if you’re giving me a choice—I’ll take the flirting.”

Can it get any better? No. It can’t.

Oliver was just everything perfect. Strong, loving, kind, understanding. He didn’t presume (although Casek’s presumptuous attitude was seriously adorable, but we’ll get to that in a second). He didn’t push. He just stood there, a little smile on his face, eyes shining with love, waiting for you to open up and spill all of your woes and tears on his shoulder.

Ugh, yes. He was just too perfect.

At the same time, he sucked at being friends with Casek. He was prejudiced, prideful, persuasive. (I seriously just wrote that so I could get an Austen pun in. He was really only judgmental toward Caz, which is a terrible offense in my book.) He couldn’t get past the surface to see the man’s soft, teddy-bear heart. Because, y’all, Casek Wearne has a heart!

And in addition to his heart, he is currently in possession of mine, ‘cuz, y’all. This man. Caz. Casek Wearne. Mr. Hottest Headmaster Ever. (Can I say my ‘ansum?)

I know I should continue gushing about how wonderful and tender Oliver was and how sweet he was with Libby and how cute they were together and how godly Ollie was and all, but Casek is demanding all of my attention right now.

With good reason.

Quite possibly, he was the best part of this book. And there were a ton of good parts, so that’s saying something.

He and Oliver were a lot alike—just like Libby and Mabena had more similarities than differences—which is probably the main reason why they butted heads all the time. And then they contrasted in other ways, of course, so it was fun to see both guys. Even if Casek didn’t get the POV he deserved.

Speaking of Benna...she was an awesome character as well! Actually, there wasn’t a single character I disliked even the slightest bit in this entire book—except for the bad guys, of course. Surprisingly, I didn’t like her quite as much as Libby, but her relationship with Caz? Perfection!

To wrap up my gushing over the characters...Sheridan was fabulous. I had him enlisted for a story from the moment I met him, so I am beyond excited to see him in a future book! And Bram was just as amazing—though not quite as humorous. The two of them together, however? Priceless! Honestly, if I were Libby, I would’ve married Sher just because of how stinkin’ funny he is! What a guy. What a guy.

Oh, wait. I haven’t even gotten started on Mamm-wynn. Here, let me make this short.

I want a grandma like Mamm-wynn (no offense to my actual grandmothers, I assure you). Scratch that—I want to be a grandma like Mamm-wynn. On top of that, she is now one of my two favorite fictional grannies (which is a thing, yes). The other is Bernia from Tamara Leigh’s Merciless. That woman stole my heart, let me tell you!

And even though Mamm-wynn is slightly different, she is hands-down one of the best grandmas and definitely one of the best characters in history.

So there’s that.

Speaking of Mamm-wynn, I absolutely loved the spiritual content White included. Ever since reading A Soft Breath of Wind, I’ve been on the edge of my seat waiting for that novel including both her signature historical style and the Holy Ghost power in her biblical fiction…

For a time, I thought the book would never be written…

But then! The Nature of a Lady.

#greatestroseannamwhitebookever

Yes, the little vignettes of Holy Spirit were so beautiful! I got the chills multiple times. The wisdom and discernment—dare I say prophetic aspects—that Mamm-wynn and even Oliver possessed made the story so much richer. With my Pentecostal beliefs, it’s guaranteed that I’ll be a hundred kinds of excited when I see authors pouring the power of the Spirit of God into their stories.

Plus, the addition of the spiritual world made Libby’s arc so much more amazing.

Here, I’ll just let Mamm-wynn explain it for y’all:

“He can whisper the future to His prophets. He can send and heal plagues. He can raise the dead.”

“We see only in part. But there is more. More to this physical world that your magnifying lenses can show you. And more still beyond it that we need a spiritual lens to see.”

So, yeah. That was just the cherry on top.

And I haven’t even gotten started on how lovely the setting was. I am seriously moving to the Scillies.

So, um, yeah. I think I’ll quit while I’m ahead. If you skipped all the crazy stream-of-consciousness, I don’t blame you.

I’ll just sum things up for y’all with one simple sentence: GO BUY THIS BOOK.

The End.


Disclaimer: A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

Enchanted and intrigued.... I was hooked from the moment I opened The Nature of a Lady. Enchanted by the unique ecosystems and customs of the Isles of Scilly and intrigued by the mystery that greeted Libby the moment she met her summer landlady "Another Elizabeth is it?...May you be more dependable than the last." I can always count on Rosanna M. White to deliver characters of depth, historically accurate details and a well planned storyline that is not predictable. She infuses all with her strong Christian faith. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and I am willingly offering this review.

The Nature Of A Lady by Roseanna White has it all...romance, mystery, exotic location, and fascinating characters. I loved all of the details about island life, I could imagine being with Libby as she explored the islands. This is the first book I have read about the Scilly Islands and now I long to see them. It was fun watching Libby and Mabena become the friends they already thought they were. I also loved Oliver and the way he was comfortable with who he was. He lived and breathed the islands. Then add in the mystery of pirates, ghosts, and a treasure and you have the makings of a fine book. A case of mistaken identity just adds to the story. So grab your favorite tea, it is England after all, and settle in for a wonderful read.
I was given a copy of this book by NetGalley.com with no expectations. All thoughts are my own.

Imagine planning to escape for the summer to a coastal cottage and upon arriving, finding yourself misktaken for someone else and suddenly embroiled in a mystery of a missing person and pirate treasure! Definitley not the makings for a relaxing getaway but most assuredly the makings for an entertaining and fun story!

I have been a longtime fan of Roseanna M. White and The Nature of a Lady did not disappoint. I thoroughly enjoyed being whisked away to the Isles of Scilly off the shores of Cornwall. I have not read many books set in this particular locale and found myself thinking how wonderful it would be to actually visit. The cast of characters in Nature of a Lady were all so likeable, but Libby was my favorite. I loved how she wasn't your typical English Lady and she felt more at home among nature than among the English elite.

My favorite quote: "He knows your name. Not LIbby, not Elizabeth Sinclair. Your true name, the one at the heart of you that has never been spoken. He knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness. You, in everything that differentiates you from others. You, in all you have in common with them. He knows you, and He calls you by name. He knows how you fit into this world." What a wonderful reminder to all of us who have struggled from time to time, that our Creator knows us inside and out, He gave us our quirks, foibles and strengths that make us who we are, and He loves us just the way He made us. How awesome is that!

Delightful from beginning to end, fans of Roseanna M White will rejocie! I am eagerly looking forward to reading more from this series and the many adventures yet to be had on the Isles of Scillly.

Thank you Bethany House and Net Galley for the free DRC of this book. The opinions expressed here are my own.

I loved this book!! It was so engaging, fun, suspenseful, and mysterious. The mystery revolving around the missing Elizabeth, secretly delivered letters, strange notes in a book, deaths, and hidden silver had me guessing and on the edge of my seat the whole time. It was written so well and I fell in love with the characters and story! Mamm-wyn was the cutest little old lady, Oliver was such a kind and sweet guy, Libby was so cool and I loved her passion for science and plants, and Mabena was so sarcastic, I loved her. I love how deep her character went, even though she wasn't the main character.

The book was completely clean, as are all of Roseanna's books. The writing and book wasn't the author's best, but I still loved it and can't wait for the next book in this series!

"He knows your name. Your true name, the one at the heart of you that has never been spoken. He knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness...He knows how you fit into this world."

Oh. My. Word!! What a masterful, engaging, unique story this is! The characters, each and every one of them. The friendships, the drama, the intrigue, the setting. You will be pulled into the world of the Isle of Scilly and wish to never return.

I can always count on Roseanna M. White to write the most intelligent, unique, absolutely loveable heroines. I don't know how she does it time and time again! And Libby is no exception. Born into high society and being pushed into a marriage she does not want, she talks her mother into letting her escape for the summer to the island of Scilly with her handmaid (who has a tale of her own!). This is where the adventure begins. When she's mistaken for another Elizabeth and left with clues as to where this other Elizabeth has gone, she dives in head first to help "Beth's" brother, Oliver, find his sister before anything happens to her.

This story is exactly what we've come to expect from Ms. White...and if this is your first one of her books, devour this one. And then go find yourself any of her previous works! You won't be disappointed.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

I do love a good historical fiction book! One thing I really like about this one is that it is in a different setting--not the same old thing!! I also like the main character being interested in something other than what the typical lady of the day was interested in.
I like the characters and the plot development. If there's one drawback, it's that it can be a little long in spots, but not too bad. ;)
Overall, an enjoyable book, and I think it would be great for younger adults, as that is the age group of most of the characters.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to have an advance e-copy. All opinions are entirely my own.

In a case of mistaken identity, Libby starts receiving packages and letters meant for Beth. At first they don't make sense, but when Beth's brother shows up and finds out Beth is missing, things take an ominous turn. Libby and Oliver are determined to find Beth and figure out what all the secrecy is about. Little do they know what their efforts and curiosity will reveal.

This book feels different from White's other series yet the aspect of a great mystery remains the same. It's always fun to read about pirates and lost treasure. I'm curious to know what other secrets the Isles will reveal in future books.

The characters were amazing. I loved Oliver's grandmother. She always seems to be looking ahead where others can't see. I appreciated that Oliver didn't have the stereotypical reactions to his relationship with Lady Libby. I enjoyed the whole island camaraderie and wish I could be there for a Wednesday gig race.

I would highly recommend this book. It was a great read. Thank you to Bethany House for providing me with a free e-copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.

Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.

As Libby and Oliver work together, they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.

All Libby wants to do is to be allowed to study nature. Not be a society lady. Her brother has arranged a marriage for her with his best friend. The problem is that they argue any time they're together. She refuses to marry him. She convinces her mother to let her stay at a cottage in Scilly for the summer. She soon discovers that she is staying in a cottage that had previously been rented by someone else named Elizabeth. Only they disappeared and people think she's that Elizabeth. She meets Oliver, the brother of the missing Elizabeth. She soon discovers that he loves nature just as much as she does.

The only negative I can say about this book is that sometimes it went into too much detail about the bugs Libby was studying. Other than that, it was a good book. A little bit of mystery and a little bit of romance.

I received a copy of this books from Bethany House Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an hones review. I was not compensated in any way.

This was everything I've come to expect from Roseanna M White. A cast full of lovable characters with intriguing personalities and interests, a mystery plot which kept me reading to find out what is going on, danger and fear for lovable characters, and not just one, but two sweet love stories for characters I was rooting for.

"He has created a universe of order and rules - but He himself is so much bigger. So full of mystery."

There was so many characters to love, Libby with her love of science and journey to see how this and God's love for us/her would both fit into her life. Moon with her past hurts and love of the Scillies calling her back, and Oliver with his steadfast faith in God and support for others, but I think Mamm-wynn with her craziness and vision was my favourite.

""Mamm-wynn! What are you doing out of bed? And here, of all places?" Their grandmother laughed. "Saving the day, of course. I had to. All my favorites were here.""

The mystery plot in this story was concluded, however, the danger and threats about this mystery has not fully come to an end and I'm expecting a lot more adventures in the future books in this series, as well as a lot of characters introduced which I'm hoping for a HEA for each of them as well.

"Love really was like a bird. You didn't know where it might settle, or when. You couldn't tame it, couldn't force it. Couldn't predict it."

Wishing the next book's release was around the corner, because the Islands and its people has found a place in my heart.

Fans of Roseanna M White will not be disappointed with this one.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

The previous books that I had read by this author were war time books set in Europe. While they were wonderful reads, it was nice to read a different sort of story by Roseanna M. White. The Nature of a Lady is set in the early 1900s in the Scillies, a group of islands off the southwest tip of England. The story follows Lady Elizabeth Sinclair; her lady's maid, Mabena Moon; and Mabena's family and friends on the Island of Tresco, all of whom find themselves in the middle of a mystery involving a missing girl, a case of mistaken identity, a possible murder, and treasure. White makes the most of these plot elements, while also exploring the theme of reconciling Christianity and science. The book is a pure pleasure to read, and I will find it quite difficult to wait for the next book in the Secrets of the Isles series.

I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of The Nature of a Lady from Bethany House via NetGalley without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.

Okay, so I totally didn’t request this book on NetGalley entirely due to that beautiful cover... and the fact it’s about pirate treasure... no, that’s a lie, I totally did!! 😂 Well, that and the fact that I keep hearing good things about Roseanna M. White, and I thought it was high time I tried one of her books...

So I have to admit this was a slow burn for me. It took me a long time to get into it! I think I was maybe expecting it to be slightly more suspenseful than it was. But once I hit about halfway, I couldn’t get my head out of the book world until I finished... even when I wasn’t reading it! It’s definitely immersive!

It’s well written, and both the characters and setting are beautifully rich. And as long as you’re expecting a standard, slower historical style read with a bit of intrigue, you’ll probably love it.

And I just have to say that usually I find the ‘not like the other girls’ trope super irritating, but this is a refreshing take on it and I actually didn’t mind it.

Oh and did I mention pirate treasure?

Thanks @bethanyhousefiction and @netgalley for the ARC. I was only required to provide an honest review in return, and while this may have been my first Roseanna M White book, I don’t think it will be my last!

The Nature of a Lady is the enchanting first book in The Secrets of the Isles series. This story will immediately propel you to the Isles of Scilly, Cornwall 1906. It was a great escape.

Lady Elizabeth, Libby, Sinclair decides to “run away” to the Islands of Scilly for the summer in order to escape her parent’s plans for her to marry. Libby decides to stay in the cottage owned by her family. She finds some mysterious notes left behind at the cottage that belonged to some previous guests. But when Libby meets Clergyman Oliver Tremayne, they quickly become friends. Libby helps Oliver as he investigates what is going on with his sister Beth. In the process, the adventures that turn up are so amazingly entertaining. As the story continues Libby and Oliver start to uncover the truths about Beth and all the secrets she’s been hiding. The twists and turns that take place, makes this a wonderful historical fiction with a dash of mystery.

I loved this story. It was amazing to me how relatable the characters were in this story. They were very well developed and the detailed description of Cornwall is so vivid that you actually feel like you are there. I am so glad that this is the start of a new series, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. Thank you Rosanna M. White for such a fantastic read.

I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. All opinions expressed are mine.

This book is a true gem. With characters that leap off the page, an enchanted setting, and a bevy of twists and turns to keep you guessing, The Nature of a Lady has everything I look for in a great read.



As with so many of White’s novels, the characters in this book are living and breathing. By the time I’d turned the last page, I felt like I’d known these characters all my life and I wasn’t quite ready to let them go. Libby was a heroine most worthy of the title. She’s a character I think so many can relate to on at least one level. Like so many others, including myself, she often feels out of place among her surroundings. Yet it was heartening to see how much she loved the isles and the way she bloomed there. A certain clergyman’s presence didn’t hurt, either. Oliver has to be one of my favorite heroes in recent memory. His heart of gold, kindness, and varied interests made him a stand out character, as well as a standard by which future heroes will be measured. The supporting characters were delightful, too. I absolutely loved Oliver’s grandmother Mamm-wynn; a sweet and wise woman. Also; Darling! Libby’s cat definitely lived up to his name. I can’t wait to read more about Libby and Oliver’s friends and family in future books!



Prior to The Nature of a Lady, I had never heard of the Isles of Scilly. Now, I want to go there! I found White’s descriptions of the Isles charming, with mentions of ghosts and pirates and fairies. The abundance of flora only added to the charm and was a perfect match for Libby’s love of botany.



The mystery elements of this book were delicious. I was intrigued by a tale of mistaken identity; a tale of two Elizabeths. Add in legends of ghosts and pirate treasure and you have a recipe for a winning story filled with intrigue! White handles all of this with flair.



The Nature of a Lady is a wonderful book that will delight readers across the board. Highly recommended!



All opinions expressed are my own. Many thanks to the author and Bethany House for a complimentary copy of this book.

I’m not sure how she does it, but Roseanna White continues to write books that just get better and better! I loved the interesting premise for this novel and the book drew me in right away with its mystery and intrigue. The characters were also easy to like and I found myself wishing that I could be friends with them in real life (I, too, am a lover of biology!). I loved the mysterious aspect of the storyline and was surprised by the many twists throughout the novel. The spiritual truths were well woven without being preachy and the romance is clean and well written. I greatly enjoyed this story and cannot wait for the rest of the series! A most highly recommend read!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

I admit it: I get more than just a little excited whenever I hear a new book by Roseanna M. White is in the works. I always wonder if her newest novel could possibly live up to my high expectations. With her May 2021 release, The Nature of a Lady, White has once again blown me away!
The first installment in her Secrets of the Isles series transports readers to the Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall, England, in 1906. It is a wonderful blend of historical mystery and Christian romance about a bright female botanist, Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair, and Oliver Tremayne, a gentleman and clergyman.
Seeking a break from pressures, Libby ventures to the Isles of Scilly to explore the flora and fauna of the area. Unexpectedly, she stumbles upon some unnerving secrets left behind by the former occupant of the cottage where she is staying for the summer. That lady, who also happens to be named Elizabeth, has gone missing, and Oliver, her brother, is determined to discover what has become of her. He and Libby work together in the search for Beth, which becomes a wild adventure involving everything from castle ruins to pirate wrecks.
White is a master of character development, and her pacing is perfect in this brilliantly written, highly suspenseful tale. The depth of research she has done to make her story historically accurate is obvious in the rich detail she provides.
I highly recommend The Nature of a Lady to fans of historical Christian fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

What if you were looking for a book with a smart heroine escaping an arranged marriage, beautiful islands with a history of pirates, a handsome clergyman, charming local characters, and a mystery involving a hidden treasure? The Nature of a Lady is all of these and more! Not only is the cover to die for, but the setting, characters, and themes are some of Roseanna M. White’s best.

First, lets talk setting. The Isles of Scilly are a hidden gem off the coast of Cornwall. With a real history of pirates and gorgeous flowers and fauna, I was drawn to this location right away and googled pictures to satisfy my curiosity. The Isles are as gorgeous as described in the book. The time period is 1906 when women were desiring to be more independent and educated.

Second, characters. Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair is an intelligent woman fascinated by science. She is kind, thoughtful, yet somehow stubborn as well. She’s determined not to go along with her brother’s plan to marry his friend. She struggles with faith, but is open to new knowledge. Oliver Tremayne “Ollie” is a handsome clergyman/gentleman who is funny, caring, yet flawed. He loves nature, like Libby, and appreciates science, but is deeply religious in a friendly, kind way. If he touches your elbow, it is impossible to resist his charms.

There are several other side characters whom I loved. Mamm-wynn, Oliver’s grandmother was one of my favorites! She is uncanny with her ability to know just what to say and what is going to happen. Mabena, Libby’s “maid” is a spitfire. She’s strong and sassy, especially with Casek. Casek is another fun character who is strong, self-assured, and patient with Mabena. He knows what he wants and isn’t afraid to go after it.

Finally, the themes. These are some of my favorite. One of the best themes of this novel was the battle of science vs. religion. As the story progresses, we see how despite Libby’s skepticism, she gradually comes to see that science and religion can compliment each other and don’t need to be in competition.

One of my favorite quotes was “We see only in part. But there is more. More to this physical world than your magnifying lenses can show you. And more still beyond it that we need a spiritual lens to see.”

Another theme was accepting yourself for who you are. Libby is sort of an outcast in society because she isn’t the typical female. Yet, that’s why Oliver loves her. She’s intelligent and curious. She surprises and delights him. Oliver isn’t your typical clergyman. He’s prejudiced against Casek. He races boats every week. Yet, his faith is deep and real and he loves the people whom he serves. The main theme is there’s someone for everyone and you don’t need to be something you’re not to find that someone.

All in all, this book was thoroughly enjoyable to devour. Can’t wait to see what the Isles of Scilly have in store next. I received a complementary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I was not required to give a positive review.

Roseanna M. White’s newest release was a delight to read. Set in the Scilly Islands off the coast of Cornwall, Lady Elizabeth is trying to escape the demands of her family for the summer. She’s not your typical society miss and is more interested in flora and fauna than flirting and husband hunting. When her brother tries to marry her off to his friend, Libby devises a plan to visit the islands with her maid Mabena, who grew up there and only recently left. When they arrive, Lady Elizabeth meets Oliver Tremayne, a gentleman vicar. He is looking for his sister Elizabeth who is supposed to be living in the cottage that Libby has rented. More adventure than either could have anticipated follows, including a treasure hunt fraught with danger, and unexpected romance for more than one couple. I loved both of the leading characters and the sweet romance. The island setting was so interesting and I enjoyed learning more about the legends and the close knit community there. The secondary characters added a lot to the story and I hope to see more of them in future books of the series. The message of faith fit perfectly into the story which I thought was well written and engaging. I could hardly put this book down, the story was so compelling.
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC and to the author and publisher for the complimentary copy. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.

First off can I say how gorgeous the cover is! I just love purple! This book was utterly fascinating! I'd never heard of the Isles of Scilly before but now it's on my bucket list to visit! Roseanna M. White's beautiful descriptions of the islands created such a longing to go and see them for myself! The Nature of a Lady is one of those wonderful stories that has it all, romance, mystery, adventure, lovable characters, unique setting. Everything you need for a satisfying read. Normally would I have a preference for one character over another but I honestly loved all the characters in this this story. They were all so different, each with their own set of strengths and weaknesses. Being the romance lover that I am, I had absolutely no objection to having two romances play out in the story nor did I object to two first kiss scenes!

This first book in Roseanna White’s new series is brought to life through the beautiful setting of the Isles of Scilly. The descriptions of the islands, island life and the residents pulled me into this story. When Lady Elizabeth Sinclair stumbles upon an unplanned adventure, her life becomes very interesting. I kept turning pages as a mystery unfolded which involved looking for pirate treasure! A wonderfully written romance bloomed amidst all the suspense. I also appreciated the faith lessons within this engaging story. I thoroughly enjoyed these new characters and look forward to learning more of their stories. Fans of White’s writing will love this book. I was given a copy of this book by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Nature of a Lady is the first novel I’ve read by this author, and as it happens, it’s  the first novel in her new series The Secrets of the Isles. I enjoy stories of mistaken identity, and with the addition of a mysterious disappearance, two love stories, a brilliant guidebook to life on the Isles of Scilly, and a strong spiritual theme, the book offers a good read. Although I found the pacing a tad slow in parts, overall, I found the novel enchanting.

In the upper crust of English society, Lady Elizabeth Sinclair just doesn’t fit. She’d rather lie on her stomach in a garden sketching new insects, peer through her microscope at the unseen world, or read up on a newly discovered plant than take part in the social events required of a woman of her station. Libby chafes at the restraints and wonders at a God who would plant one of His creations in such a mismatched situation. When her brother, the Earl of Telford, begins to arrange a marriage for her with his best friend, Libby has had enough. Her maid, Mabena Moon, suggests that Libby summer in Mabena’s homeland, the Isles of Scilly, twenty miles off the coast of Cornwall. Mabena can visit family while Libby can give the prospective groom some time to discard her brother’s idea.

The two women arrive on St. Mary’s to learn they have rented a cottage which had previously been let to a young lady, also named Elizabeth, who vanished unexpectedly. As they settle in, they find the other Elizabeth’s clothes and books still in place. A copy of Treasure Island has been marred with extensive hand-written notes including a peculiar poem that talks of faeries and the sea. Over the next few days, Libby is approached by men who address her as “Elizabeth” and hand over notes, an eighteen-pound cannonball, and money. No explanation arises until another man arrives on their doorstep demanding to know “Where’s my sister?”

After two weeks with no letters from his sister Beth, Oliver Tremayne is worried. Her silence and his grandmother’s fretting that “Beth isn’t where she ought to be” have his nerves on edge. Now he’s facing two women, one of whom he knows very well - Mabena Moon, a close friend from the Isles - the other one he briefly met two years before, Elizabeth, the Earl of Telford’s sister. The mystery blossoms as the three would-be detectives begin to piece together clues from tales of pirates and buried treasure, artifacts, and even a treasure map, all the while continuing to look for the missing Beth. The author displays a deft touch in interweaving the romance storylines through the detective work and the discovery of criminals active in the Isles.

There’s a phrase of encouragement I’ve sometimes heard: ‘Bloom where you’re planted.’ Despite the location or circumstances in which you might find yourself, look for a way to thrive. The novel suggests that in some cases, a person might need to move to another location to bloom properly. As Libby struggles with her feeling of being out of place, she doubts that the God of her upbringing has a plan for her until she visits Scilly. Living as close to nature as the locals do, they intuit that God’s love and presence are bigger than what the traditional church might describe. Oliver’s grandmother, with her strengthening sight “across the veil” into the divine realm beyond provides more evidence of the breadth of God’s presence. Libby’s time with Oliver, his grandmother, and the bountiful creation in Scilly shows her a broader way to embrace the Divine.

The Nature of a Lady also sets up the islands as the location for the next books in the series. The descriptions are lush and set among interactions between characters, the romances, the unravelling mysteries, and spiritual theme. The one thing that kept me from rating this book a DIK was the slow pace in some sections where I wanted less island description and more attention on the mystery and romances. Nonetheless, The Nature of a Lady is an enjoyable read, with a thoughtful discussion of the nature of God.

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I thoroughly enjoyed The Nature of a Lady. The adventure plot was engaging and pleasingly twisty, and kept me wondering what was going on. The romance was sweet and gentle, and the friendships and secondary characters were fantastic. I loved the story’s passionate defense of science, and its loving, generous approach to faith.

But most of all, I loved the story’s delight in the beauties of the natural world. This book left me with a profound desire to visit the Isles of Scilly, to look for water birds, explore the botanical gardens and investigate the ruined castles (pirate treasure optional). By the end of the story, I was beginning to feel homesick for a place that I’ve never even visited.

If you like a story with plenty of adventure, a beautiful setting, and interesting characters, and you don’t mind a bit of theology in your romance, I think you’ll really enjoy this one.

My full review will appear on Smart Bitches, Trashy Books closer to the publication date.

This cover is gorgeous!!!
This book is ok to “judge the book by it’s cover”! Gorgeous cover comes with a book full of gorgeous scenery, flowers and characters. I enjoyed learning more about these beautiful islands. The landscape descriptions made me feel as though I was soaking it all in with Libby. The multiple points of view added depth and brought even more to the story. The mysteries are intriguing and it kept me thinking about them when I had to take a break for life. Suspenseful events and the unknown send the characters into a crazy hunt for answers. Twist and turns galore!

The group of characters were unique and I enjoyed all the personalities that did and didn’t mesh well together. Libby is independent and doesn’t fit into the normal London society. She not only loves scrubs and lacks interest in society, but she is also friends with her ladies maid. Libby refuses to just accept things she doesn’t want and plows her own path. Oliver is caring and a loving vicar. He is worried about his missing sister and opens his heart to Libby. Oliver and Libby’s relationship is adorable and I enjoyed watching it blossom. They helped each other grow and become better people together. They encouraged and strengthened even before the love bug sets in.

This is another excellent story written by one of my favourite authors. The Nature of a Lady is full of good history and romance which we’ve come to expect from this talented story teller. Roseanna M White expands her creativity in this first edition of the Secrets of the Isles series. What begins as a simple summer vacation intended to be an escape from proper English society, ends up full of secrets, old legends, pirates, and buried treasure. The plot builds well. The characters are likeable and relatable. However, the inclusion of certain scientific theories, such as Darwinism, I thought unnecessary. While the science theme was a good one, and one that I support, I would have liked to see a stronger biblical perspective come through by the end. Beyond this one aspect, I recommend this novel to my fellow historical fiction and romance fans. I can’t wait to read book 2!

I received a complementary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Nature of a Lady is only the second book I’ve read by Roseanna M. White, but let me tell you, I’m a FAN. I loved just about everything about this—the pirate lore, the captivating setting in the Isles of Scilly, the community in those islands, the heroine’s refreshing personality....loved it! The author’s writing style is immersive; I can’t say one negative thing about it. There’s nothing dry, even with the more scientific descriptions woven in. There’s wit and banter and layered characters that you have to take the time to get to know to figure out.

A character I especially appreciated was Libby. She’s intelligent and unwilling to conform to society’s norms while also not being brash or headstrong to the point of annoyance. I loved reading about her spiritual journey. Everything about that felt organic to her logical mind. (I ended up loving all of the characters, to be honest.)

4.5 stars all the way. (The only thing that holds me back is a theological mention about Creation that didn’t seem to be clarified by the end.) I’m already wanting the next in this series! These islands were a setting I was reluctant to leave as I finished the book, so I’m eager get back to them.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for participation in a Just Read book tour. All opinions are my own.*

"The Nature of a Lady" is a Christian romance set in 1906 in England. Oliver's sister has gone missing. People keep delivering messages and objects to Lady Elizabeth because she's living in the same vacation cottage and both women have a similar look. However, Oliver's sister promised an archaeological find to some men who now think that Lady Elizabeth is their contact and is withholding their prize. They've already killed one boy to get their treasure. Libby and Oliver must find Beth before more people get hurt.

Libby and Oliver shared an interest in science and studying nature. Oliver encouraged Libby to learn more, sharing his knowledge with her. He also respected her intelligence and her courage during their efforts to protect and find his sister. She encouraged him to live up to his faith and forgive a longtime rival. All of the characters were complex, realistic people, and I cared about what happened to the main characters.

Libby felt that science explained the world without a need for God. Oliver, a vicar, explained that learning more about God's creation didn't negate the need for God. He helped her to a sense of wonder at Christ's act offering salvation. Based on one sentence, it seemed like Libby still felt that the things she discovered using science should be used to reinterpret the Bible. I'd assert instead that the Bible helps us to properly interpret what we discover through science. After all, God knows how He created everything! There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'd recommend this enjoyable historical romance with a mystery.

What a spectacular setting! I had never even heard of these islands but fell in love with them — and the hero is quite dashing, too. I could have done without the Darwin references, but this book being the first in a new series of mysteries makes me excited to read more.

The Nature of a Lady
by Roseanna M. White
Publishing Date: May 4, 2021

Another new Christian author for me! An excellent book that kept my attention! Thanks to her publisher and Netgalley for the ARC. My readers will enjoy this book!

5star

The Nature of a Lady is a captivating novel with the perfect balance of mystery and romance.

With compelling characters, rich descriptions, and tales and legends of princes and pirates and treasure, Roseanna M. White has once again crafted an incredible historical romance.

I think my favorite part of The Nature of a Lady was the characters, though. All the books I’ve read by White have included a great cast of characters, and this novel didn’t disappoint me. Libby and Mabena’s friendship was the first to draw me into the story. Not your typical lady-lady’s maid relationship, their interactions often left me smiling. And I loved the way White began to hint that things may not be as they seem. But best of all was the way they complemented one another. Libby’s sweet nature paired with Mabena’s spitfire personality to create one of the best literary friendships I’ve read lately. Then you have Oliver’s warmth and steadfastness. I couldn’t stop smiling whenever they were on the page together. These two pair so well I couldn’t help but root for them.

And White rounds out her cast with plenty of quirky supporting characters and a love interest for Mabena, even if she doesn’t want it at first.

As secrets are revealed and they worked together to solve the mystery, I was engrossed. White does a great job of drawing you in and keeping you on your toes. Especially as they get closer and closer to the mystery and unexpected characters show up.

As for the spiritual arc, I loved how Oliver and Libby discuss God and how science can help us better appreciate His creation.

Overall, The Nature of a Lady is a beautifully-written, well-cast romance historical fans will love. I can’t help but look forward to the future books in this series.

(Review will go live on the blog May 14 at 12 pm EDT.)

The latest from faith-based, historical-romance author Roseanna M. White is a rich tale that combines mystery, romance, and suspense against the beautiful backdrop of the Isles of Scilly. You might find yourself making travel plans to visit! Over one hundred islands, and only five of them inhabited.

Where do I start? First of all, this book cover drew me right in (so kudos to the design/art team!). Purple is my favorite color, and I am a long-standing advocate for more book covers with purple aesthetics. Second of all, the heroine’s name is Elizabeth…and how can I not feel a connection and bond with a character who shares my name? Especially after the lovely dedication page where the author acknowledges all us readers bearing that name. And side note: Oliver is fast becoming a favorite hero’s name as well.

While her name encouraged a liking to the character, from the beginning I found myself connecting with Elizabeth—her questions, her struggles, her desperate desire to find her place in the world. And very soon into her island ‘get-away,’ the mysteries begin to unfold and draw her in—and me along with her. Along with the mystery of the vanishing of the ‘other Elizabeth’ in this story, who is Oliver’s sister. Both Elizabeths seek adventure and freedom, but danger shadows their steps.

I thought this story was a beautiful expression of searching and longing, written in a sometimes achingly poetic way that touched my heart. Especially where it came to addressing a Scriptural truth that I actually have written in its original language on my wall in my own home: “I have called you by name, you are Mine.” To know that, not only are we never truly alone in this world—even should we feel friendless and outcast—but we are known and understood and seen in a way that goes beyond the name our parents gave us, or the nicknames others call us by. It is rather by a soul-deep identity which our Heavenly Father has given to us.

As for Oliver, I truly appreciated his character and how he came alongside and complimented Elizabeth (Libby) on this journey. He had a gentle, understanding, and naturally caring demeanor that made their interactions easy and natural. I would have loved to have spent more time in their company, watching their relationship develop and being privy to more of their conversations. Their love story was just so sweet and their interactions so heart-warming!

There are just a couple of content cautions. Libby does reference her belief and estimation of Darwin and his evolutionary theories, and that mindset/viewpoint never seems to be challenged or firmly disputed. Some references which tier us alongside ‘animals’ in our behavior—such as attracting a mate and primal instincts/needs. These references are subtle, but no less present, in a few places. The romance is a bit fast-paced, as the characters do not know each other very long before they pursue their attraction for each other, but nothing inappropriate or physical beyond holding hands and kissing. I would recommend this book to older teens and adults looking for a clean and faith-oriented romantic-adventure set in a beautiful and historic setting.

In summary, I found this to be a beautiful story that combined soul-searching questions about faith and our place in this world with the adventure and mystery of a treasure hunt, and a sweet and heart-warming romance of finding and fighting for true love. I look forward to continuing this series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and author for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I really enjoyed this one. It had complexities of family relationships without being tedious or those complexities slowing the story down. Great dialogue. Interesting journey of MC rejecting God in favor of science, and coming to realize God has created an orderly natural world. Sweet romance.

Vicar seemed ignorantly unprotective at times, in favor of the plot.

Loved the island setting. Loved every side character- well developed and cannot wait to see what happens to them all. Each is flawed but loveable.

Pacing was off a tad but that could have been me.

The Nature of a Lady
by Roseanna M. White
Back of the Book: “1906
Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.
Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.
As Libby and Oliver work together, they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.”
Impressions: Oh, I love suspense… but I hate it! Waiting for answers isn’t my strong suit but read on I did (channeling Yoda there) and you won’t want to miss this adventure.
Rated: Murder (not graphic)
Liked: I loved this book. How can you not like a well written treasure hunt with romance bundled up!? I enjoyed all the characters and their unique personalities😉.
Disliked: The fact that I have to wait for the next books…
Quotes: “Never in her life had she disobeyed her brother though. Or, before that, their father. The very idea of it made her stomach squirm.” – Ok back story I was the obedient goodie two shoes… I read this and sparks flew. A new reader-character relationship made 😊
“But he prayed every day it would be enough to satisfy her. That she’d come home in September and forget all her fool ideas about needing something more, something bigger, something else. She was always after the else, Beth was. Despite it always disappointing her.” – Ok back story I have a sister… take out Beth’s name and that’s her. Another character spark.
“Because it’s by naming a thing, knowing a thing, that you come to understand it. Only when you see its unique traits can you truly appreciate what it is, and what it isn’t…He (God) knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness. You, in everything that differentiates you from others. You, in all you have in common with them. He knows you, and He calls you by name. He knows how you fit into this world…You are you, which is absolutely perfect.”- 3- in -1 here but it all is relative to the same idea. God named us, knows us (faults and all), and loves us as we are.
“Why should she spend the read of her life struggling to fit into a world that couldn’t appreciate her?” -Anxiety, depression… they come easy to me. I struggle sometimes with trying to fit in and trying to be liked. It feels silly as an adult to still feel this way but the more I turn to Jesus the less I feel the pull to be confused in who I am. Do I still feel insecure, frustrated to fit in… yes, but I need to redirect my focus of who I’m trying to impress or be validated by and look to the Lord. From there I see who I am and was made to be.
I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review shared here.

Title: The Nature of a Lady
Author: Roseanna M White

Ch: 27

Pg: 384

Series: The Secrets of the Isles

Genre: Christian Historical fiction, Christian Historical Romance

Rating: 4.5 stars

Publisher: Behtany House



The Nature of a Lady is different from Roseanna’s previous books but I still enjoyed it. Though I have to say it did start out a little slow, but by the fourth chapter I was hooked. I loved the character of Lady Elizabeth Sinclair but then I’ve always been a sucker for heroines who aren’t exactly society’s normal and Roseanna never fells to deliver those heroines. And the hero Oliver what can I say I love slightly nerdy hero. They are the best. And enjoyed seeing a clergyman as a hero as you don’t see that that often.


But more importantly I loved the threads of friendship in the book. Of the friendships forged in unlikely places.


As with all of Roseanna’s novels the faith element it woven through the story from beginning to end. The mystery element of the story kept me on my toes and turning pages to find out what happened.


I loved the ending and I look forward to the next book in the series.

I received a complimentary copy from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

The Nature of a Lady begins a new series, The Secrets of the Isles, by Roseanna White. Set in the Isles of Scilly it tells the story of two Elizabeth's.

Lady Elizabeth just wants an escape from the expectations of home so she rents a summer cottage. What she finds instead is a missing boarder also named Elizabeth, a treasure hunt, and love.

The Nature of a Lady starts out slow as books sometimes do when they're laying the foundation for future books. What was immediately clear was that Lady Elizabeth wasn't like other women of her class and desperately needed a friend.

I like how the mystery unfolded slowly while being intertwined with the coming alive of Lady Elizabeth. Libby bloomed on the Scillies. She learned more about who she was and what was her purpose. She also learned more about God. It's interesting to note that like many of us, Libby initially had a one-dimensional view of God--a God so like us, He could be kept in a box. Under Oliver's tutelage she learned more about her Creator and how big He is.

The romance between Libby and Oliver began as a friendship and was strengthened by common interests.  Oliver saw Libby in  a way others didn't. I would have liked to see more of their relationship played out on the pages but what was portrayed shows what could become a strong marriage.

There were a number of secondary characters that were introduced in this book whose stories I'd love to hear so I look forward to the next book in the series.

The major theme in The Nature of a Lady is that God knows your name. He created us and we are His. Even when the circumstances of our lives aren't ideal, God sees us and has a plan for us.

The Nature of a Lady is a complete story but there are some issues that were not resolved in this book and will be continued in future books. I received an advanced reader's copy from the publishers through NetGalley; a positive review was not required.

Roseanna M. White’s newest release, The Nature of a Lady, has all the elements I love in a good book. Intelligent woman, science, islands, overbearing family, beloved underdog who captures the heroine’s heart, mystery, and intrigue. Libby is someone I can wholly relate to as a science minded person. There are multiple lines and quotes that reverberated with me because they approach the experience of God from someone with a mind that is more logically oriented. Oliver does an excellent job of using science to help point her towards God and uses her own reasoning and logic to help her see things. I love intelligent conversations! Beyond all this, there is the tender romance that Roseanna is known for, in addition to the mayhem and mystery created by there being two Elizabeths. I highlighted multiple lines and plan to reread many sections. I love the descriptions of the island and the way of life in the Scillies. I learned a lot about the area and customs as well. I cannot recommend this one highly enough. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

The characters were fantastic! This may be my favorite book by Roseanne White. This story took me on quite the journey, secrets, mystery, pirates, treasure and murder all keep the reader in a whirl wind. There is a sweet romance that is a added bonus to the story. I loved watching Lady Elizabeth mature over the summer. God was woven so beautifully into the story and flowed nicely with the story, not overbearing but a beautiful growth. Forgiveness from hurt whether friend or foe, truth and learning to let go of the past and find that place you belong is wrapped in a story that is filled with excitement and energy leaving any reader truly captivated.
Was given a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.

The Nature of a Lady is the first book in Roseanna M. White’s new series The Secrets of the Isles. Mistaken identity, pirate treasure, and budding love, this book has it all.

If you’ve followed me for long, you’ll likely already know I’m a big fan of Roseanna M. White’s work. The Nature of a Lady is another wonderful addition to her collection (or my collection of her books!) I loved this story. The spiritual truths, the science, the pirate lore, the sweet, sweet romance – it was so good!

It’s also a story I’m happy to have on my shelves because it’s one I know I will reread. The characters were endearing and made me excited for the rest of the series. None of the characters are from previous series, so if you’re new to Roseanna M. White’s stories, this is a perfect place to start. And I hope you will pick up a copy. It’s a lovely story in every way.

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I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with FTC guidelines.

Love, Love, Love!!! I was totally swept away to the islands off the coast of Cornwall in The Nature of a Lady! I have loved Roseanna White's previous books but I think this may be my new favorite! I was so enchanted by Libby, Oliver and the islands. I can see how one could fall in love with this place and not only want to visit but have a peaceful, happy life there.

There is romance and intrigue, beautiful gardens and rugged men racing boats...what more could I want?! I'm quite excited that there is more to come of The Secrets of the Isles!

Thank you Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review. All opinions are my own.

I am a confirmed fan of Roseanna M. White’s novels and must read each of her latest as soon as they are released. The Nature of a Lady has just hit bookstore shelves and I encourage all readers to grab a copy soon, even if the author is unknown to you. Unless I miss my guess, she will soon be a favorite.

Like many other readers I had never heard of the Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall. This book has brought them to my attention and although I will probably never be able to travel there I have already enjoyed browsing through photos of them. What a beautiful place filled with history that includes pirates, smuggling, hidden caves, and all manner of beautiful flowering gardens.

Although this story is not set during a war as so many of White’s books are, it has its share of mystery and suspense woven into a delightfully romantic tale of mistaken identity. What better hero than clergyman Oliver whose gentle touch of one’s elbow tends to make all things right with a person’s world. I like to think that it was the Holy Spirit working through him. And Libby, a pampered daughter pulling at the bit of her parents’ expectations, takes matters into her own hands and escapes for a relaxing summer in a cottage by the sea with her maid where she can sketch native plants to her heart’s content. Secrets abound and Libby finds herself right in the middle of a mystery that includes a missing young woman and even the possibility of hidden treasure.

I absolutely loved this wonderful tale filled with so many quotable passages. A story of finding one’s perfect place in the world and a message of the power of forgiveness, The Nature of a Lady is a keeper and I already want to read it again.

To Save a King (True Blue Royal, #2 by Rachel Hauck is an enjoyable read. It is the second book of the series but I was able to connect with it even without reading the first book. I do plan to go back and read it because this book was so good. It's a fairytale and who doesn't love a fairytale.

Gemma Stone runs a rescue ranch for hurting animals back in her home town. She has returned with secrets and hurts from trying to make it in the movies.

Prince John is in Hearts Bend to heal from a broken engagement. They get thrown together by mutual friends in a three legged race. Healing, friendship and maybe more.

A fun read by a talented author. You will enjoy this story.

I received a complimentary copy this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

The secrets of the Isles... the Lady definitely loved nature and wanted a quiet life to study it. Perfect title for this story. I enjoyed this story of two Elizabeth's that were similar in size and easily mistaken for the other. Exciting and fast moving when they ended up being hunted by the same people. The characters were so entertaining and full of secrets and lies. Kept me guessing on who was doing the hunting right up until the end. I also liked how faith was so important throughout.
I was gifted a copy by the publisher through NetGalley. No review was required. My review is voluntary.

The Nature of A Lady By Roseanna M. White 4.5 stars

*Book Blurb: 1906. Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair, with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. She flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.

Oliver Tremayne--gentleman and clergyman--is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage . . . especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.*

In an exciting new series by Roseanna M. White we are traveling to the early 1900s England and the Isles of Scilly pronounced "Silly". We meet Lady Elizabeth, a debutante who doesn't fit in with the fancy crowd. She only wants to research her love of botany. She's given the chance to get away for the summer in a quaint cottage with her maid to research and explore to her heart's content. As soon as they arrive not everything is as it seems. Mistaken identity, pirate legends, sunken treasure and danger is not what Libby has in mind.

The characters were genuine and fully developed. Each had distinct personalities and you felt empathy for them. I really loved Ollie and how well he treated Libby and how natural their romance progressed. You felt like you really there in The Isle if Scilly with the characters. The author did an amazing job of immersing you in their world.
I enjoyed the rush of the danger and mystery that Libby works to unravel. Up until the end I was guessing and didn't see the ending coming. The faith content was very well done. Long time believers were still trying to understand God and have their faith grow. They had questions for God but never questioned Who He is. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and happily recommend it!

I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

Do you have a common name? I was told my parents didn’t want to name me after a family member, and so they chose what they thought was an uncommon name. Which was fine until I came upon another Sally at my school, learned she and I shared a birthday, AND that she was born at the same hospital! The reason I ask, however, is that the inspiration for The Nature of a Lady comes from a writer noticing she was signing books for readers with the same name: Elizabeth.

The importance of a name is an important aspect of Roseanna M. White’s new novel. Authors usually take care to separate their characters by giving them different names. I often say that if the Bible was fiction, it wouldn’t have so many Marys in it, especially in the New Testament gospels. Here White individualizes her Elizabeths by giving them different nicknames. But names aren’t only about people; Libby soon learns that giving a name to a situation means that it’s real. Names mean power. When you give someone or something a name, you hold power over them.

But the naming thing isn’t the only important aspect of this novel. The story starts at the height of the English Civil War in the 17th century, with a pirate turned privateer deciding to keep a portion of his gains from the monarchy he supports. This, then, is the treasure that’s sought by two different parties in the early 20th century, with innocent lives caught in between. Despite their own family rivalries, the local vicar and school master find themselves working together to protect those closest to them.

There are other enjoyable elements to the first of White’s new Secrets of the Isles series. I liked reading about an area of England I’d never visited, and of which many readers may not have heard. In a time before radio and television, it was fascinating to imagine how rural communities might’ve existed. There’s also an ongoing debate between science and religion, and I appreciated the conclusion to which White had her characters come.

Overall, this is an enjoyable turn of the century piece with just enough danger and romance to satisfy fans of either genre. Look carefully, and you’ll find a cliffhanger as well… because one character’s story is not neatly resolved. I’m eagerly anticipating future titles in this series, and the sooner they can arrive the better!

Disclaimer: Although I received an electronic advance copy of this book from the publisher, the opinions above are my own.

The Nature of A Lady is a book that has it all! The setting, the mystery, the character development, all of it was absolutely brilliant. There are books that are difficult to put down and books that you can’t stop thinking about even when you have to walk away. This was the latter. Roseanna White is an excellent author, but this is probably my favorite of her novels and has a much more enjoyable tone than the last couple of novels she released, which were well done, but quite heavy in subject matter. This is one of those series where I really wish I could pick up the next novel and just keep reading. Write fast Roseanna…I’m waiting.

I received a free digital galley of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White is an excellent start to a new series! Set it in 1906, the story takes place on the Isles of Scilly, which are located due West of Cornwall, England. These islands have a temperate Oceanic climate, which is a good bit warmer than the rest of Britain. I had never heard of this location before reading this book, and now I have a new place on my travel bucket list. One aspect that I love about Roseanna’s books, is that most of them have some sort of mystery that the main characters become involved in. This book is no different - there’s a missing person, a mistaken identity, and a search for pirate treasure! Another thing I enjoyed about this book was the multiple points of view. Readers get into the heads of several characters, and though that can sometimes be confusing, Roseanna pulled it off well. One of the main characters is Oliver Tremayne, who is a vicar. He is kind and caring toward his congregation. Though he struggled to get along with one of the other islanders, whom he’d grown up with. I appreciated this because it made him seem more human and relatable. Libby is another main character; she struggled to understand how the God she learned about on Sundays and what she knew of the natural world went together. I enjoyed reading her journey to trusting God, and how it wasn’t something that happened quickly - it seemed natural. Of course, I loved the romance as well! This is another fantastic adventure by Mrs. White, and I cannot wait for book 2!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publishers. I was not required to provide a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

The Nature of a Lady promises to be the start of another great series from Roseanna M. White. I found myself anxiously awaiting what would happen next and kept turning the pages late into the night. The characters were so unique and I easily fell in love with all of them. I can’t wait to see what the second book in the Secrets of the Isles series holds!

Libby was so unlike any normal London lady. Doing her best to fit into a world where she didn’t belong was no easy task, but she tried. When her well meaning brother decides it’s in her best intrest to be married, he began pushing her into a marriage with his best friend, and that was the final icing on the cake. Hoping some time away will give everyone fresh perspective she embarks on an adventure to a place where her maid grew up. Mabena Moon is also Libby’s friend, and Libby knows that the little island where she grew up is the perfect place to escape and study a world so different than hers normal one. What she finds just might take her breath away.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Historical Fiction with a little mystery thrown in. White kept my interest the entire time and I enjoyed watching the interactions between the island characters, some friendly and some not so friendly. I am anxiously awaiting the next book where I can spend more time with them! I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

The island of Scilly is a place I didn't even know existed. And now, I want to go there!
I loved this story. I loved Elizabeth and all her quirks and funny behaviors, the ones that made her think of herself as less than an ideal lady...
I loved the detailed descriptions of the land, the islands in particular.
The mystery was great. It kept me guessing the whole way through!
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

“Perhaps you weren't perfectly adapted to the environs into which you were born, Libby. But that doesn't mean He made a mistake in where He put you. It means only that He set you on a journey, like any other migratory creature who needs different settings for different seasons. He led you here. ~pg. 221”

“He wanted more for her. Wanted her to love the Creator with the same boundless fascination with which she loved His creation. Wanted her to trust Him as she had so quickly come to trust Oliver.~ pg. 250”

I've only read Rosanna's Ladies of the Manor series when it came out in 2015 and I absolutely fell in love with her writing style, her story settings, and the way she draws you completely into the pages of the book. I knew The Nature of a Lady would be a little different of a style for her, but still contain the things I came to expect; a great blend of romance and historical details.

I was really intrigued with the setting of this story, the Isles of Scilly. I'd never heard of this place before so it was with fascination that I explored it along with Libby—aka Lady Elizabeth Sinclair. Having escaped her overbearing brother's plan to marry her off to Lord Sheridan, at least for the summer anyway, she finds herself quickly drawn into the culture of the island and its people. Having a keen eye for nature & a sharp scientific mind, there's much fodder for exploration on this beautiful but mysterious land. There's also rumor of possible pirate treasure, that's where this story takes an unexpected twist!

Our hero Oliver Temayne was the local vicar and beloved by all. Watching him work his “elbow magic” on Libby (you'll find out more about that) and his gentle nature will endear you to him. His quest to find his missing sister, also named Elizabeth, was part of the mystery in the story.

So if you're up for some adventure, a little bit of a mystery to solve, finding a hidden pirate treasure, a beautiful island to explore, an unusual hero & heroine to get to know along with a whole cast of characters, faith, and of course a gentle love story, then I know you'd enjoy this as much as I did. Fans of Roseanna White’s other books will find this just as delightful, with a little twist!

*I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions expressed here are my own. *

Roseanna M. White is one of my historical fiction go-to authors and she has done another wonderful job with The Nature of a Lady. In this first book in a new series, The Secrets of the Isles, readers will find themselves fascinated by life on the Scilly Isles, off the southwestern coast of England, during the early 1900s. Gig races, pirate's booty, community bonds that hold fast through thick and thin, a place where everyone knows everything about everyone, or do they? The author has given her vibrant characters depth and realism and portrayed their inner feelings profoundly allowing those emotions to resonate within the reader. Libby, Beth, Elizabeth--so many of the same name, and yet each so different. Lady Elizabeth, Libby, a lady on holiday to gather strength to refuse her brother's choice of husband for her--wanting to find a place where she fits in, and it certainly doesn't seem to be the world of London society. Beth, strong and determined to protect her family, and now missing. And then there is the Elizabeth of the past, how does she fit in? Mabenna, the maid, or just who is she? And Mamm-wynn, such a precious and seemingly prescient grandmother. I'd take her any day as mine! I loved watching the characters change and mature in their attitudes and relationships with each other. White is a master at blending historical information with faith-filled inspiration. Will Libby be able to figure out where she belongs as she begins to recognize that the God who created the world of nature she loves to study, knows her true name and knows how she fits in His world. Lessons of faith are threaded throughout giving readers much to think about. Scenes and conversations are authentic and add so much. Interest is kept high as there are several surprise twists to the plot and a climactic ending that is rather edge-of-the-seat suspenseful. I really enjoyed this book and can not wait for the next in the series. Readers who love historical fiction will not want to miss The Nature of a Lady. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers. A favorable review was not required and the opinions are my own.

What a engaging, mysterious, and wonderfully romantic story!

Roseanna M. White has again created a heroine who is intelligent, delightfully socially awkward, and completely relatable in her insecurities and vulnerability. Libby's love of the natural world had her crawling in the dirt observing, bringing her microscope on her summer trip, and speaking of worms and such at dinner. Society, needless to say, frowned on such activities!

Libby's struggle to reconcile the God portrayed by much of the clergy with what she observed in nature and read in the scientific tomes of her time caused her to question matters of faith. The author dealt with this beautifully and logically. My favorite faith lesson she learned was that of realizing the very personal way God loved her and called her by name.

Oliver was the kind of vicar who truly embraced the concept of a good shepherd - and lived it! His love and care for the flock entrusted to him were so evident to all on the islands. Their trust in him was amazing. It was fun that Mabena credited his ability to draw people's innermost thoughts out to his "elbow magic". Yet despite his tender heart, the enmity between him and Casek was intense...

So many wonderful characters populated the islands! I adored Mamm-wynn with her sprite-like ways and Tas-gwynn with his penchant for exaggeration. Mabena, Casek, Beth. I could go on and on...

The mystery surrounding Beth's disappearance added quite a bit of excitement and suspense. I was very surprised when events played out and secrets were revealed!

If you enjoy historical fiction with mystery, romance, and faith, you will want to read The Nature of a Lady. And check back for new releases in The Secrets of the Isles series to learn more about the other wonderful characters introduced in this story. Based on the timing of her previous releases, my guess is that the next book will release in another six months or so. So stay tuned, and I'll be sure to let you know...

This new series set in the Scilly islands offers a fantastic read, complete with suspense, drama, and romance. Roseanna White never disappoints. Her well-developed characters and creative plots offer a delightful read in wonderful settings. This story features Lady Elizabeth Sinclair, who loves exploring nature, escaping to an island for a summer with her maid, and Oliver Tremayne, a vicar who lives on one of the islands. His missing sister and quirky grandmother draw the two together to solve this mystery, which may involve pirate’s treasure. I enjoyed watching the characters evolve and make discoveries and am looking forward to reading more of their adventures in the next book. I received a copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
#TheNatureofaLady #NetGalley

Rosanna White's books are among my favorites, and I was thrilled to discover that she is starting a new series with this story! While I love her WWI series and would be happy with her series to continually be set in the same time period, it is fun that this book has an island setting in a little earlier time period.

I loved getting to know Libby and Oliver, as well as Mabena and the other islanders. The setting is so beautiful, and I enjoyed seeing it through the eyes of a character who loved nature as much as Libby does. The questions Libby has in regards to faith and science are thought provoking and made me think. I also enjoyed that this story had a bit of mystery with Oliver's sister having disappeared.

I highly recommend picking up this (and Roseanna White's other stories!) book.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. This is my honest review.

This is an absolutely fantastic start to a new series from Roseanna White! After reading her WWI series, this change in scenery was fresh and inviting, and I was enchanted by the Isles of Scilly, an absolute jewel off the coast of Cornwall. If you want a book that mixes Historical Romance with suspense, mystery, some pirates, wonderful and endearing characters along with a beautiful scenery described in a manner that you just want to book your next flight there, then this is your book! I have to say this author never disappoints me and always surpasses my expectations in unexpected ways!
A bit about the story. Elizabeth Sinclair -alas, Lady Elizabeth-, the daughter of an Earl who passed away, is pestered by her brother to an arranged marriage she can’t stand. A woman who loves science and nature, she asks to spend the summer with her maid, Mabena Moon, in one of the Isles of Scilly, happy to be away from London Society demands and be able to bask in the nature’s beauty. But from the start, she is welcomed by strange happenings, being mistaken for “another” Elizabeth, who was staying in the cottage just before she arrived but mysteriously left without a word.
Oliver Tremayne feels the world on his shoulders. His parents died in a boat accident, and his older brother Morgan passed away a few years ago too. Now, it is only he and his sister Beth, and his beloved grandmother Mamm-wyn, who is battling dementia, but at times, she seems like the wisest person in the world. Oliver is a clergyman, and his kind and empathetic nature leads him to win the love and trust of his parishioners, and many more. But he’s beyond him with worry when he finds out his sister Beth is no longer holidaying at the cottage she was supposed to, but has vanished into thin air. In her place, he finds “another” Elizabeth in the cottage, whom he met a couple of years ago in her family’s Manor, dirty and inspecting the garden, and had a marvelous chat with her about nature and God’s creation. Turns out, she was the daughter of the recently deceased earl.
Together, with Mabena’s help (Beth’s good friend), they dig into a dangerous mystery, involving a pirate shipwreck and a hidden treasure. And yes, unexpected at first, but natural as they get to know each other, a growing friendship quickly turns into something more… Will they find Beth? What secret lurks behind her disappearance? Will Libby be able to let her heart rule, or will society expectations tear her from what she desires most?
This was a wonderful story, and a great start to a new series! I can’t wait for the next book! My only problem is the waiting!
I have to say that what made this book amazing was especially the character development. Other than the enchanting setting, as I already said, and the poetic descriptions and some dialogues, the characters were so vividly portrayed, that I felt their struggles and fears were mine too. I related to Libby’s desire to belong and be loved for who she is, not the title she was born to. She was sweet, shy, fragile in some ways, vulnerable, yet strong and determined in others. But her heart was huge and full of love to give and desire to be given. Oliver was the perfect clergyman, with his heart for people, his loyalty to the core, and his ability to see through them into their souls. I loved that when he held a person’s elbow, he could determine the person’s character. And the way he saw into your eyes, as if he could see your bare soul, because he did. He was truly charming and empathetic. I totally fell in love with him!
The romance was totally sweet, clean. Even if they fell in love kind of fast, it didn’t feel rushed, but natural, as if they were really meant to be with each other. It was swoony!
And I loved most of the side characters too: Sweet Mamm-wyn and her all seeing wisdom, Mabena with her strongminded and sparky character, Ennyon, even Casek… Hope to see more of them in the next stories.
There are some interesting faith themes in the book that were artfully touched. The battle of science against religion, how they don’t have to be in opposition, but complement each other, the vision of God loving us unconditionally, our trust in Him despite the outcomes in life. I loved how Oliver’s dialogues with Libby break her prejudices and bring her to a better knowledge of a God that never forsakes us and loves us as we are, human and flawed.
The mystery, the pirate story was something that made the story all the more engaging and quite a page turner. I loved the adventurous, mysterious and dangerous story side of the story.
Definitely, I book and series I highly recommend! Deep and profound, yet enjoyable, sweet and very intriguing! Five stars!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

I loved this most recent novel by Roseanna White! The characters are top-notch. Animosity and tension easily flowed enough to make me despise the antagonist; however, not enough that I couldn't move over to his side when the tables turned for him. I love Lady Elizabeth and Oliver and the developing relationship they enjoy. There's enough mystery and who-dun-it to make this book impossible to put down!

I can't wait for the next book in this series!

A riveting read with a well built plot and characters that stay with you long after the last page is turned down.



A case of mistaken identity draws Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair into a mysterious adventure while on holiday on the Isles of Scilly to escape the matchmaking schemes of her brother.



Libby is an intelligent young woman, with a passion for studying nature. I admired her logical sensibilities, while also being sincerely compassionate, taking time to be present with others. I especially loved her interactions with Oliver and how he helped to open her eyes to see things in a new light.



Ms. White brings the breathtaking setting to life, from the cliffs and caves to the cottages and beaches through the people who love the isles best. My very favorite character had to be Mamm-wynn, for how closely she walked with God and trusted His urgings, never hesitating to follow. She is a sage woman, who comes off as a little eccentric, and completely endearing, beloved by all. I also really enjoyed many of the other characters and hope to see more of them in future books, and honestly I'm still not sure what to think of Sheridan--could he be hiding something?



Fantastic characters, filled with mystery, adventure, and a stunningly beautiful setting, this book quickly won me over and had me wishing for the next book in the series before I'd even finished this one. I loved the premise of mistaken identity, with multiple smart capable heroines, a resounding message of faith, and high stakes adventure. This is a well paced and plotted story with a lot of things going on at once and multiple levels of relationships between the various characters. I am definitely hoping to see many familiar faces in future books to come! Definitely a solid read all the way through, you won't want to miss it!





I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

As always, Roseanna M. White creates a wonderful story with a backdrop of rich historical detail and accuracy. I always appreciate the research that is involved in the construction of each of her stores. I enjoyed this setting and era of the early 1900s. I really enjoyed the investigative component to this story as Libby and Oliver work together to discover information about Oliver's sister. Between the great character development, fun side characters and the pirates, there was lots to enjoy in this fabulous book! Thanks to netgalley for an arc of this story, all thoughts are my own.

This is the first book in a series called Secret of the Isles. I can’t wait to find out all the secrets of this beautiful place. This first book is wonderful and all kinds of mysterious things happens when Lady Libby and her “maid” goes to the Island. Well her maid Mabena had her own secrets too.
I loved the characters and the descriptions of the island. I felt like I went on each trip with Libby, Mabena & Oliver as they were hunting for Oliver’s sister Beth. Libby became more involved than she wanted when she was mistaken for Beth. They encounter ancient legends and pirate wrecks. Such a scary search.
It also has a spiritual thread. Libby learns a lot about trusting God from Oliver who is not only a friend and loves botany like she does but also a clergyman. Another character I loved was Mamm-wyn and how she wanted to take care of Libby and how she knew things they didn’t think she was capable of.
Enough romance, danger and mystery to keep you reading through the night. Don’t miss this first book where you will be ready to read the next one. I’m ready now.
I received a NetGalley copy and a paperback from the publishing company but was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Roseanna M. White is one of my favorite authors and I am always excited when she releases a new book. I wanted to read this book first because of the beautiful cover but then because of the story and it was wonderful. I loved how there was a mystery needing to be solved and how Roseanna took us on a journey as she solved that mystery. I also loved the characters. I loved Libby and her journey as she came to realize who God was and how he felt about her. I loved how the people of the islands welcomed her with open arms. I loved how Oliver loved Libby for just who she was. I loved the setting and how Roseanna described it. I thought this was a wonderful story that kept me engaged from the first page until the end. I can’t wait to read more stories set on the isles.

I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors.  A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.

I can always count on a good book if Roseanna M. White writes it. The Nature of a Lady, the first in the Secrets of the Isles series, introduces us to strong female characters, a mystery, romance and a sweet faith element that will speak to many.

I was quite intrigued to discover the Isles of Scilly. I had never heard of them, and I feel like I've been on vacation with Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair. The vivid descriptions of the beach, the gardens, and even the caves make me wish I could visit this enchanting tourist spot.

I loved Libby's quest for independence, and more than once, I pictured myself in her place. Sadly, I wouldn't have had as much restraint as she did and would have told my brother to shove off and bopped him in the nose. I like reading historical fiction, but I'm so glad I wasn't born then. Unfortunately for Libby, she had to run away on a "vacation" to avoid the fiancé her brother picked out for her. And when she arrives in Scilly, it isn't too long before she stumbles upon a mystery. Or rather, the mystery comes to her and lots of danger along with it.

I loved the cast of characters in this one. Each had a powerful story to tell, and each grew to make this historical romance stay with you long after reading the last page. I highly recommend it.

I loved Libby and Oliver. I loved the descriptions of the Isles of Scilly. This has romance and some intrigue. I always love when books bring in some ancient treasures especially with pirates. I love the twists and turns. I hope there are more books in this series. I received a copy of this book from Netgalley for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

Lady Elizabeth Sinclair and her maid, Mabena Moon, are off to the Isles of Scilly near the coast of England to escape Elizabeth's brother, Bram, who is determined to marry her off to "stick-in-the-mud," Lord Sinclair. Elizabeth has never fit the mold of the cultured society of which her family is a part. "Libby" as she is called loves all things of nature, how they grow and function, and especially drawing them. But little does she know that her trip will lead her into mystery, suspense, and an interesting gentleman.

This book first caught my attention because of the absolutely incredible cover. It is definitely an eyecatcher. And, of course, any historical fiction by Roseanna White is a must read for me; and White definitely does not disappoint with the first book in her new series. The three main characters, Libby, Mabena, and Oliver were so well done with their varying personalities and problems; yet they worked together as a wonderful team to unearth the mystery taking place on the Isles of Scilly. I especially enjoyed that the romances took place as part of the background.

Highly recommend and can't wait for the next book in the series.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

This book was as historically rich and wonderfully complex as every Roseanna M. White novel. (The funny thing is, almost every single time she releases a new book, I finish it and immediately want to go back and reread her other books...which I did once again this time.) She has this fantastic way of creating out-of-the-box heroes and heroines who aren't only unique, but also layered and relatable and flawed in the best of ways. I enjoyed the mystery in this one, the abundance of side characters with journeys of their own, and, of course (as always!) the romance. Another five-star read from one of my faves!

I never knew about the Scilly islands and now thanks to this book, I do! The islands sounds amazing and the author described them well. Lady Elizabeth is needing time away from her brother, who is pushing her towards marrying a friend of his, who she can’t get along with at all. Her maid Mabena suggests going to her home, the Islands of Scilly. Adventure begins when Lady Elizabeth is mistaken for another Elizabeth on the island. Oliver is searching for his sister who wanted space for a bit and is a Vicar on the islands. Mystery, treasure, pirates, danger await them. I really enjoyed reading this one and am so glad it’s the first of a series. I look forward to more adventures on the islands! I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All views stated here are my own.

It's always cause for a party in my house when Roseanna White releases a new book! I have yet to find one I didn't love, and I frequently recommend them and loan them to others. She has a unique voice for historical fiction, and I absolutely love it! One thing I particularly enjoy is the fact that she has a number of heroines who are mathematicians and scientists in the early 1900s! I think they provide such great heroines for my daughters, and I personally really enjoy reading about them.

Elizabeth in this book is a naturalist. Her love of nature was infectious, and I enjoyed getting to know her character as well as that of Oliver. But I have to admit that their story and romance was overshadowed for me by Mabena and Casek, who I found far more interesting and entertaining. I felt they rather stole the show, and I was thrilled about it!

Mamm-Wynn, another secondary character, was also delightful, and her exploits with Oliver's grandfather reminded me a bit of Jennifer Beckstrand's Huckleberry Hill characters Anna and Felty, who I absolutely adore!

I enjoyed the themes of faith and science, as well as family and forgiveness. And while I personally found the "secondary" characters and storylines in this book more fascinating and inspiring than those on the cover and in the book blurb, that didn't take away from my enjoyment of this book in any way, and I am thoroughly looking forward to the next books in this series!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.

Having read Roseanna's books I was excited to start a new series with her.

This was SO different than I'm used to with her writing. I say this in a good way. It's not at all what I was expecting. I'm so used to her stories being set in a city and the parameters that come with those kinds of stories, no matter the time period. With The Nature of a Lady, it was similar, but being on a set of small islands, gave her writing such a different spin. There are also several different POVs which I thoroughly enjoyed.

First we meet Libby. She's headed to the Scillies for the summer with her lady's maid to escape her brother pushing her into a betrothal with a man she has no desire to marry. The mysteries begin almost right away. They're staying in a home that still has the previous renter's items there. Very curious.

Then we begin to meet more and more characters of the story and the islands start to come to life. Mabena Moon is Libby's maid, but she also harbors some secrets. Being on the Scillies doesn't leave much room for secrets though! I enjoyed her storyline and all that she wrestles with.

And then there's Oliver. I just love the male characters the author creates. They're always so easy to be drawn to, which makes sense when Libby feels a connection to him. The way Oliver connects with people seems to be handed down from his grandma Mamm-wynn. She is absolutely one of my favorite characters in this story!! I want to be a granny like her!

The storyline was rather intriguing. I love a good pirate tale and this one did not disappoint. There's certainly mystery and intrigue that surround the pirate story of this book. Oliver's sister, Beth, is missing and no one is sure what's going on. But strange things begin to happen with Libby and being mistaken for Beth, and then the mystery begins to unfold!

There's a strong faith element in the story and the gospel message is given in a way that makes sense with the story and the characters. It doesn't feel forced, but I love how it's explained. Watching Libby try to understand how God and science can blend together is wonderful, especially with me being a fan of flora and fauna. This story, and specifically Libby's storyline, really resonated with me. You don't have to have a love of plants and wildlife to enjoy the story, but if you do, then you'll enjoy it even more!

I already can't wait for book 2!!

What a fantastically beautiful story! Roseanna M. White knocked it out of the park with The Nature of a Lady. This outstanding story has it all: a murder mystery, tons of intrigue, two sweet romances, character self-discovery and self-reflection, and an illustration of properly wrestling with God and His Truths in order to come to a better, stronger relationship with Him. This is a book that definitely had me turning pages well into the night. The Nature of a Lady is an absolute MUST-READ!

One of the things I love so much about White’s novels is how good she is at crafting characters who always manage to worm their way into my heart. I always feel deeply for White’s characters, and often find that I relate to their issues. I love White’s novels cause when I read them I don’t feel as alone as I usually do because if she can describe how I feel so adeptly through her characters I’m clearly not the only one who feels all the feels I feel on the regular. Take being the black sheep in your family for instance. Libby is her family’s black sheep. She isn’t like anyone else she knows and it hurts her that she’s different. It’s not the difference that bugs her so much as it is the constant state of being a disappointment to others and being so constantly disappointed that others won’t accept her for who she is. There’s this tiny moment in the novel where Libby says she thinks it’s time to give up. Oliver gives her a look and she tells him, “I’m not like them. And I don’t enjoy trying to be.” The “them” in this moment are two socially adept, beautiful young women who come from Libby’s upper-crust society who always know what to do and say. They always want the things Society tells them to want and they never question their families, their peers, or their social structures. This moment broke my heart. Libby’s resignation, her utter sense of defeat, her total acceptance of her black-sheep status — it all just hurt me. I was so glad that Oliver was there in that moment to set her straight cause I wanted to jump into the book, hug her, then inform her that she is perfect exactly as God made her. And that’s what hurts so much about being a black sheep — we feel like a disappointing mistake. But, honestly, that’s garbage. The black sheep of this world are unique and special. We’re no mistake, we’re just often surrounded by people who are blind to how cool and amazing we truly are. It’s a matter of finding those who can see us for who we are, who can see us as God does. And I’m thrilled Libby found her special, perfect-for-her place in life among people who genuinely love her and accept her as one of their own.

I love The Nature of a Lady. This book is amazing and I could gush non-stop about its greatness. I’ll simply end this review by saying that this story is magical and wonderful. It’s a definite MUST-READ and I highly recommend it.

I received a review copy of this novel in eBook form from the publisher, Bethany House Publishers, via NetGalley in order to review. I also received a paperback review copy of this novel from Bethany House Publishers as well. In no way has this influenced my review. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

In a unique tale that is cleverly woven in a way that Ms. White is know for, The Nature of a Lady is both intriguing and captivating for any reader of of historical fiction. The mystery of a loved one missing mixed with a young woman’s desire to be free of her family's station requirements offers several opportunities to keep the pages turning.
The wonderful subplot of the maid jumbled the story up just enough to keep it interesting.
Ms. White used her descriptive skill masterfully so that the reader felt like they planted right in the center of every location.
Lastly, I think this cover needs an honorable mention. It is stunning.
**I was given a copy of this book from the publisher. A review was not required but freely given.

What can I say about another excellent book from one of my very favorite authors? Probably just that, it was wonderful! I loved this story! It's probably one of my favorite reads of the year, so far. So rich in history with characters I adore, it doesn’t get much better for this reader than one of Roseanna M. White’s books.
One of the things I greatly enjoyed about this book was the beautiful setting! Ms. White has such a marvelous way of adding details until it’s almost as though I can smell the flowers blooming and feel the spray of the surf. I loved getting to experience the Isles of Scilly through newcomer Libby, as well as through the eyes of Oliver and Mabena, natives to the islands. The islands almost seemed a character in and of themselves, at times. I also enjoyed Libby’s love of nature and science and how Ms. White used her perspective to show us a different way to see the world.
There are some quirky characters who add colorful life to the island, including Fitzwilliam Gibson and Oliver’s Mamm-wynn, whom I fell in love with. Being that this is the first book in a series, I’m hoping they might make a special appearance in the future stories, as well.
The mystery was intriguing and kept me guessing. It’s always interesting to me, reading about investigations prior to the “connected generation” where we have everything at our fingertips. I love the old ways of problem solving and sleuthing, reminiscent of some of the stories I grew up with.
I’ve said before that my favorite Roseanna M. White novel is whichever I read most recently, and I’d say that’s true of this one, too. If you’ve never given her books a go, I would highly recommend this one! (or any of them, really. But the beginning of a series is always a nice place to start.)
*My thanks to the author for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

Lady Elizabeth "Libby" Sinclair is tired. Tired of being expected to be something she isn't, and of being pressured to marry someone she doesn't love. She is still grieving the loss of her father, and even though she loves her family dearly she just wants to make her own choices without the pressure of their expectations. When the opportunity arises to spend the summer with just her laddies maid (and friend) Mabena on the Isles of Scilly, she jumps at the chance. She doesn't know that Mabena has her own reasons for wanting to go, or that there is possible danger - and maybe even love - waiting for her when she arrives.

Oliver Tremayne's sister - also named Elizabeth - (this is a crucial story point) has been off on an adventure and asked for some space...but since she hasn't checked in recently he is starting to worry. His responsibilities as the village vicar are many, and his beloved grandmother (Maam-wynn) seems more frail than usual. When the mystery intensifies - and people are missing and possibly dead - Libby and Oliver work together to solve it

I loved learning about the "Scillies", and enjoyed the deep family relationships and ties. I always experience some frustration over the rules of the day dictating certain behaviors but that is what it is. :) I also enjoyed learning about the rich history of this area and people. I am happy to recommend this book and look forward to the next in the series (The Secrets of the Isles).

I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

I loved the setting for this book. I had never heard of these islands before, so it was fun to learn about a new location. The characters were enjoyable. I loved Lady Elizabeth's fascination with nature, and how her view of plant life gives her a different perspective for all of life. Oliver also has a different view of life from most. While he too sees the beauty of nature all around him, he also has been touched deeply through the pain of loss giving him a different perspective. Each of the characters in this first book, both main and secondary, has great appeal in their backstories which provides for a great story. But in addition to the characters, the tales that are being told about long-forgotten pirates and treasure hunting is a fun added mystery. I enjoyed trying to solve the mystery as I read through the story, and it was satisfying to see it come together at the end. My only complaint is that I usually can read through a book pretty quickly, and this book took me a lot longer to finish. I wasn't speeding through the pages like I have done before with Roseanna's books. However, I would not let that discourage you from reading this novel. I think it has a lot to offer, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book in her series when it comes out.

***I received this complimentary book from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White is the first book in her new series The Secrets of the Isles and a must read for those who love inspirational historical romance with a little suspense added to it.
When Libby Sinclair flees society for the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer she finds more than she's bargained for when she stumbles upon dangerous secrets that were left by the former occupant of the cottage, who just happens to have disappeared.
Oliver Tremayne is determined to find out what has happened to his sister with the help of Libby who is not only the new guest in the cottage, but the young woman he met a few years ago.
They are not only uncovering many hidden secrets, but the fact that they are falling in love.

I'm definitely looking forward to reading more wonderful books in this series!

I was given an ARC from the author/publisher. All conclusions are mine and mine alone.

The Nature Of A Lady is the first in the new Secrets of The Isles Book.
Libby doesn't exactly fit the expected rules of society that are set in 1906. She is more than happy to escape to Isles of Scilly as her lady's maid Mabena suggests. There she can avoid her brother's attempts to marry her off and she can finally relax and be herself studying the flora and fauna with her microscopes. Full of mystery,intrigue,romance and danger.
I am captivated by the descriptions of the island , the scents,the sounds,the textures. The mystery comes alive at this author's hands.
I am very much looking forward to the next story in this series!

Pub Date 04 May 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

The Nature of a Lady, by Roseanna M. White, is the first book in The Secrets of the Isles series. Set on the Isles of Scilly off the southwest coast of England at the beginning of the twentieth century, this novel is a stunning piece of historical fiction. With great skill, thorough research, and thoughtful insight, Ms. White successfully combines elements of history, mystery, suspense, danger, romance, and faith. Page after page, these elements meld together effortlessly creating an immensely satisfying story that is utterly enjoyable and thought-provoking. 

In this novel, Ms. White’s undeniable talent as a writer is fully revealed through a clever cast of characters and an utterly compelling plot. Mistaken identities, mysterious deliveries, and island legends envelope the characters in a complicated mystery that only they can solve. As they work together to uncover clues and make sense of puzzling events, the characters in this book are genuinely likable and inspiring. They are authentic and interesting as they wrestle with issues of faith, doubt, belonging, purpose, friendship, and forgiveness. Like ever-present waves upon a shore, the characters and their experiences are memorable and moving long after this book has ended.  

Ms. White is a gifted storyteller and her books always offer a very enjoyable and satisfying reading experience. Therefore, it is no surprise that The Nature of a Lady is a well-written story that is uplifting, unique, and wholly intriguing. It is certainly a special start to a new series, and I eagerly recommend it to all readers.

*I was given a copy of this novel from the publisher. A review was not required. The review I have written is voluntary and contains opinions that are entirely my own.

This is a magical story! I really loved the island setting, the mystery element and the great characters that we are going to get to know in Roseanna’s latest series. It is an immersive story full of lovely details and beautifully written island settings and a historical pirate treasure mystery. I mean honestly, what’s not to love about all of that?? A perfectly woven story with a great ending. Don’t miss this one!!

I received this book from the publisher and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.

With a fascinating setting in the Isles of Scilly, off the coast of Cornwall in the summer of 1906, The Nature of a Lady swept me away to a great adventure. While this story had a different flavor than most of Roseanna M. White’s previous books, it still had the colorful, realistic, and engaging characters which I’ve come to expect from her writings. Lady Elizabeth Sinclair is an intelligent, unassuming, and charming heroine who travels to the Isles of Scilly with her maid Mabena Moon for a summer holiday. Oliver Tremayne is a well-respected and loved vicar who is compassionate and helpful. It was delightful to see their relationship grow and develop as they worked together to solve the mystery of Oliver’s missing sister, Beth.

I greatly enjoyed learning more about the Isles of Scilly and visiting there vicariously. Although there were a few parts of the tale that seemed a bit slow to me, there was plenty of adventure and suspense to make up for that. With the added inspiration and romance thrown in, it was a wonderful read, and I’m looking forward to the rest of the series. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Roseanna M. White writes characters that leave the page and breathe right in front of the reader, which is why I am always eager to pick up a new book by her. This latest series opener does not disappoint; instead, it transports us to another time and place with people who rapidly become like old friends.

Life is different on the islands, both for those of us reading, and the characters in the story. Libby only wants a place to fit in, but she cannot find it in London. Pressured to marry a man of her brother’s choosing, she instead takes a summer trip, hoping to enjoy herself and give distance to the problem.

Fitting in is a dominant theme. Expectations of others, societal rules, and family dynamics all play heavily into the struggle to find a place where she feels like she belongs. When Libby finally feels like she has found home, the problem is that those who are in charge of her life will never accept her solutions; does she have the strength to fight for her place?

Oliver has a home and belonging, but his life is not free of problems. One by one, he has lost many he loves, with others possibly leaving his life, too. His responsibilities are great but he is a man who accepts them with grace and takes his position seriously.

The author fleshes out both the primary and secondary characters, who provide integral parts of the mystery without ever feeling like their only reason for existence is to provide a clue. I loved that this novel of belonging provided that for all of its characters.

This is an excellent novel about finding one’s place in the world, about seeking God’s will over man’s, about discovering who one is created to be. I give it my highest recommendation for teens and up, and those who enjoy historical novels set in England will especially relish the incredible setting the author gives her unforgettable characters.

I received a review copy of this novel from the author and publisher, but was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are both honest and my own.

To escape her social responsibilities, nature-enthusiast Lady Elizabeth (Libby) travels to the Isles of Scilly with her handmaid for the summer. There she finds herself being mistaken for another Elizabeth, who has mysteriously disappeared, and alongside this other Elizabeth’s brother, Oliver, tries to find this mystery girl’s whereabouts using the clues she left behind.

This story is one best enjoyed in the springtime with the budding trees and flowers. A nature-enthusiast, like Libby, would appreciate the detailed descriptions of plant life in this story as well as Libby as a character. I felt a certain connection to her as well with her hesitation in social situations and preference for simple things in life.

The insta-love romance between Libby and Oliver was tame but well done and I was able to buy into their attraction which is not always the case for me as a reader with this type of trope. The mystery itself lost me somewhere in the story but I stuck with it until the end but I will probably remember the love story more so than the mystery when I think back on this book.

I appreciated the discussions on faith in this story (Oliver is a clergyman and supports Libby in developing a connection to God through her love of nature) and this was woven well into the story with some grace and was not forcefully done. Overall, this is a gentle story with an air of mystery and a sweet romance.

A special thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eArc in exchange for an honest review.

A thrilling setting and heart-squeezing romance meet White's consistently dazzling research. What a unique and wholly absorbing historical. Just enough mystery to off-set the growing and believable friends-to-lovers romance between Libby and Oliver.

White is a must-read for me and The Nature of a Lady proves again why.

The Nature of a Lady #1 The Secrets of the Isles by Roseanna M. White

I love the setting in this story and time period: the Isles of Scilly, 1906, with prologue set in 1645. From the vivid descriptions; I could easily envision the beautiful flora, fauna, birds and water surrounding Scilly. Even the book cover beautifully depicts the beauty of the Isles (as I imagined it to be).

Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair is a very intriguing lady, and doesn’t behave like a titled lady should, according to her peers...which makes me like her all the more and is one of my favorite characters. Her interest in nature and microscopes certainly cause a stir among her class, but that is what sets her apart from them in an endearing way. I believe she actually “found” who she really is during her time on the Isles. The mystery and danger she finds herself in the midst of, bring to light an inner strength that I don’t think she knew she possessed.

Another favorite character is clergyman and gentleman, Oliver Tremayne. A native of Scilly, he loves botany and biology and certainly has ample specimens available to study. I love his love for family and the community surrounding the Isles. The “elbow holding” is rather interesting. I enjoyed the growing relationship between Oliver and Libby and the very tense relationship between Mabena and Casek. I love Oliver’s grandmother, Mamm-wynn, she is a sweet woman with spiritual insights that often enlighten and guide herself and others.

I especially enjoyed the spiritual elements woven within the story-line and the spiritual journey Libby experiences. This story is filled with intrigue and mystery, pirates and buried treasure, danger and suspense, forgiveness, love and enduring faith. I enjoyed the author’s notes, especially how this story came to life, and the way she weaves historical facts within the fictional story-line.

~I received a copy of this book from the author/publisher; also an e-book copy from the author/publisher via NetGalley (no monetary gain were exchanged), this is my honest review~

This was a magical story that took me to a place I was not even aware existed. Where you may ask? Why to the Isles of Scilly which is south of another magical place, Cornwall, 28 miles off the shore to be exact.

The year is 1906 and we have Lady Elizabeth, Libby for short, and her maid Mabena, whose goes by a few names (Moon, Benna). Mabena is a native to the islands and went to work for Libby and her family due to her own reasons. Now she has manipulated a visit for her and Libby to visit the islands so that she can find out what happened to her friend Beth.

Beth Tremayne, the vicar Oliver Tremayne's sister, has disappeared. And apparently no one knows where. Oliver, being the big brother, is obviously worried about her and begins searching for her with the help of Mabena and Libby, who keeps getting mistaken for his sister.

Libby is a lady with a scientific mind, which was very frowned upon at the time. Needing the escape as much as Mabena needed to get to the islands, I found the unfolding of their friendship quite interesting as well. One thing that I really appreciate about author White's characters, is that a lot of times her heroines are unique and out of the box for the time period. Most times they do not fit in to their society's norms. Libby was such a one with a soft heart and full of insecurities.

This story was full of the beauty of these one of a kind islands, a mystery, talks of ghosts and fairytales, shipwrecks and pirates. Oliver and Beth's grandmother is quite a woman. She comes off a little mad, but whenever she came on the scene and spoke the things she did, I got goose bumps as she helped a certain love story along. It was almost as though she already lived the future. Throw in another love story and you have an atmosphere of enchantment with a flavor of gothic.

I hope to one day visit that part of the world.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all view and opinions are my own.

Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair is visiting the Isles of Scilly for the summer, hoping to catalog the various living species and escape from a pending engagement back in London. In the Isles, she encounters adventure and romance with local vicar Oliver Tremayne, who is searching for his sister who has disappeared mysteriously in search of the pirate treasure of local lore. Oliver and Libby work together with a well-written cast of characters to get to the bottom of the mystery, and their romance is delightful! The suspense of the search for Oliver’s sister and the intrigue surrounding the search for pirate treasure made this book interesting from start to finish and captured my imagination. The book is filled with unique and engaging characters which make this book so fun to read, and I love that the future books in the series will give us some of their stories too. Oliver was such a wonderful hero in this book, and I loved how he continually put Libby ahead of himself throughout their relationship, even in dealing with her imposing family. He was such a sweet and romantic character! I adored the spiritual lessons that multiple characters learned throughout the plot, especially the heroine Libby, who learned to move from knowledge of God to a relationship with Him. It was a lesson that touched my heart! This was my first read by Roseanna M. White, and I absolutely cannot wait to devour more of her work now. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves adventure and a lovely romance, and I look forward to the future books in the series!
I received a copy of this book from the publisher from Netgalley for review purposes. My thoughts are my own—I really did love it!

I can't even express how much I enjoyed this book. Honestly, it had everything I needed. A great setting, interesting characters, a fun plot, and romance. The main character was interesting and unique with her love for all things that grow. And although this was a Christian book (which I love) it was done in a light manner that felt more natural than many other similar books.

And what can I say about our main love interest. Honestly, I loved everything about him. The kindness and care he shows for others, his whole attitude and love. He was just everything I want and need!

PS. almost forgot to mention: pirates and hidden treasure. Yeah like I said, sheer perfection!

So as you can tell, this book was amazing and I will definitely be reading more from this author!

What is not to like about this fascinating, delightful book? It has treasure maps, pirates, gold, ghosts, and a beautiful island filled with lovely cascading gardens. I enjoyed learning about Libby’s Passion for flowers and all the secrets they hold. I was mesmerized by what she saw, the plants she drew and how she categorized them.

This is a charming story that grabbed my imagination with deep characterization, a solid setting, and the exploration of the island with Lady Elizabeth. The characters were engaging and unique and I adored the setting. I was drawn deeper into the story by the mysterious disappearance of Beth Tremayne and was then pleasantly surprised at how Lady Elizabeth was drawn into this multifaceted story line as outsiders searched for John Mucknell’s treasure.

I delighted in the fairy tale within the story that helped give the characters clues to the whereabouts of the buried treasure. Likewise, I enjoyed the story line with Mabena and the growth of her and the other characters along the way such as Oliver Tremayne and Lady Elizabeth walk in circumstances that force them to gather the courage to walk out their faith and obtain the desires of their hearts. The spiritual thread was interesting as Lady Elizabeth struggles with the conflict between evolution and creation theories. As she learns, she is open to a deeper understanding of faith and science.

I liked the natural spiritual thread and the challenges of faith all of them had, even though one of the characters was a pastor there were no preachy sermons, I appreciated how the author allowed readers to see the clergyman struggle with walking out what he believed the bible said. He had a blind spot he wanted to correct. It was harder than he thought. I liked how all the characters changed with time. I enjoyed how the author took readers on a tour of the island with the help of a friend who lived on The Scillis Islands. She said, “It’s historically a popular place for “Pirates and smugglers to congregate…Pirate lore – “Muchknell most notorious of the Scilles ‘pirate residents.” “Is Muchnell’s treasure still buried somewhere? Or did he really turn it over to the crown?”

The author continues, “I wanted a hero who had been forever affected by loving a brother with a debilitating illness – and a brother who had loved him so much that he’d selflessly preserved as much of the family legacy with leaving something after.” I appreciated how she went about doing this.

I like to have fun reading a story., but it is a double bonus when I learn a thing or two about history and a new place along the way. The author says she wanted her book to be set somewhere fun and different. She achieved her goal. It is an enchanting get a way to an exotic island, with characters I instantly liked and some I didn’t. This is a wonderful staycation for you in your comfy reading chair. It is one that would be great book club too. Oh, there is so much to discuss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

The Nature of a Lady is a delightful story set in the Isles of Scilly - full of friendship, romance, history, and intrigue as Libby and Oliver search for long-lost pirate treasure. Libby is a charming heroine, searching not only for adventure but also her independence. She doesn’t fit the mold of “lady” that her brother and society want her to conform to; she loves to study nature and feels much more at home on the isles than anywhere else. Oliver, a wise clergyman and a concerned brother, makes a dashing hero. The cast of secondary characters and the idyllic setting make this a thoroughly enjoyable story. I can’t wait for the next book in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I have loved every book I have read by Roseanna M White. I was so excited to have the opportunity to read her newest release and the start of The Secrets of the Isles series, The Nature of a Lady. I was far from being disappointed. It was so very good. This one may be my new favorite she has written to date. I loved the beautiful setting and adored Libby right from the start. Her strength and courage was inspiring. I found her and Oliver’s story to be fun and entertaining.

I am giving The Nature of a Lady a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it for readers who enjoy reading clean historical romance. I am looking forward to reading the next installment from The Secrets of the Isles series

I received a paperback copy of The Nature of a Lady from the publisher. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion.

What a beautiful book. Gorgeous, unique setting, swoony romance, fabulous feminism, mystery, murder, and buried treasure all in one book? What more could you need?
Reading this was an absolute pleasure. The characters were all wonderfully unique, yet they fit together to form the story so well.
The theology was perfectly incorporated and probably my favorite part of the book. It wasn't pushy or preachy, but just present enough to make you think and give you a dose of Godly love.

Thank you to Bethany House Publishing for a gifted copy of The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White. All opinions are my own.

Lady Elizabeth Sinclair is not your typical young lady in 1906. She does not enjoy fancy balls and she definitely does not want to marry her brother's friend, Sheridan. When an opportunity to vacation in the Isles of Scilly for the summer with her maid, Mabena, comes to her she jumps at the chance to escape.

I loved this story. It is full of myth and folklore of pirates and ghosts plus a treasure hunt. The family and friend relationships are beautiful. Elizabeth, Libby, is unique and very likeable character.

This book is just what I needed after a slow month of reading. I didn't want to put it down. The cover is gorgeous and the author has some interesting notes at the end. This is the first book in The Secrets of the Isles series. I cannot wait read the future books.

Christian
Historical Fiction
Romance
Release Date: May 4, 2021

The Nature of a Lady by Roseanna M. White

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes

Roseanna M. White brings readers the start of what looks to be a really fun series of stories of young people finding love in unexpected places.

Libby Sinclair has come to the Isles of Scilly to find respite from her brother's attempt to marry her off to his friend. She is determined to take the summer to ponder her situation and find a solution to her problem. Libby was guided to the Isles by her maid and friend, Mabena Moon who grew up on one of the islands. But what starts as a quiet summer they intend to spend lazing on the beach and visiting the local gardens turns into far more when the former occupant of their cottage turns up missing. Oliver Tremayne is the vicar of the Isles and loves his calling and the people. His sister, Elizabeth, had gone to stay on another island for a time and promised to write him updates. But now it's been weeks since a letter from her - and her cottage is being let by others. Oliver has known "Benna" Moon since childhood and is surprised to find her back on the islands. She left after her love interest married another. She has come back to find Elizabeth and agrees to help Oliver if she can; as long as she doesn't have to work with too handsome, Casek Warne. Casek's brother left Benna behind but it was really Casek who was really in love with her years ago. Can he convince her he's always loved her and because of that he let her choose who she wanted to love? Libby is not what Oliver expected when he arrives at the cottage, but she seems to have inadvertently put herself in the middle of whatever Elizabeth has gotten involved in. It seems he has no choice but to work with her to find out what has happened to Elizabeth and what are the secrets hidden on the Isles. But danger is waiting to find all of them as they dig deeper in the treasure that is supposed to be hidden on the one of the Isles. Can they keep themselves alive long enough to find the treasure or will it cost them what they have come to value more than silver or gold? Such a great plot line - a bit complicated but everything works out just fine. I loved the introduction of all the characters and how they all fit together. It's clearly going to be a fantastic series and I'm excited to see where it goes. It was very good to have two couples in this first story to give it depth and not leave anyone out. I loved the opposite characteristics of Oliver and Casek. They were good "enemies" throughout most of the book but eventually became the friend the other needed. And with their matches of Libby and Benna, they became better men than they started out. The convoluted treasure hunt was a marvelous addition to the story and kept me guessing what was going to happen next. I will certainly be recommending this story to others and hope they will enjoy it as I did. I'm very much looking forward to the next in the series and seeing who is the focus - I hope it's Sheridan or Bram!

I received this temporary complimentary E-Book from the publisher via NetGalley in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

***4.5 stars***

This book is beautiful inside and out, just like the main character Libby. She is a young woman who is struggling to find herself. To escape an unwanted engagement, she travels to the Scillies Islands with her maid. I have never heard of the Islands before, but they sound absolutely beautiful and are now on my wish list to visit someday.

Libby is fascinated with nature. In the early 20th Century, it is not something that is considered fashionable. It makes her an outcast from members of society. She is happy to dig in the dirt and draw flowers. Her trip takes an unexpected turn when she is caught up in the mystery of the woman who lived in her cottage who has disappeared. Her adventure leads her to find God and the Vicar Oliver Tremayne.

I loved the descriptions and the love that the people had for their islands. The sense of community and acceptance was wonderful. They took a woman who needed a community and helped her feel at home. The book contains excitement, danger, and intrigue that leads to a search for pirate treasure.

The Nature of a Lady is a story that left me feeling good and edified.

Source: I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.

This book, guys–it makes me want to pack my bags right away and fly over the Isles of Scilly to tour the Abbey Gardens, watch the Wednesday morning gig races, and search for pirate treasure! Every time I opened its pages, it just made me feel happy inside!

There was so much to love about this brilliant start to Roseanna’s latest series! First, the characters… I fell in love with Libby from her first appearance on the page. While at times she felt rather naive, I reminded myself that that is just part of who she is–she has been sheltered her entire life and this is her first experience with the world on her own. And I could relate to her in many ways, actually. I certainly don’t share her fascination with science, but I could totally sympathize with Libby’s feeling of being out of place and misunderstood because her interests and personality didn’t fit with everyone else. Next, I fell in love with Mabena; I appreciated how she was feisty and headstrong, but there were more layers to her than just that. Then in came one of the dreamiest heroes I’ve met this year in my reading–the vicar, Mr. Oliver Tremayne. **sigh** You gotta love a preacher man who also loves his family (especially his deceased, sickly brother that he took care of 😭), books and flowers, and lets the heroine be exactly who God made her to be. I appreciated that he still had flaws, though, to compensate for his otherwise perfection, namely his rivalry with Casek Wearne, which factors greatly into his arc as a character. It kind of reminded me of the feud between Ross Poldark and George Warleggan. Except Casek is far less despicable than George! I actually ended up liking Casek a lot!

As always, Roseanna’s secondary characters shine just as brightly as her main ones do. I could spend several more paragraphs talking about all of them–Casek, Tas-gwynn Gibson, Mr. Menna, Beth, Bram, Lord Sheridan–but for the sake of not making this review a mile long, I will only focus on one more, which was my favorite character in the entire story… Maam-wynn! After the recent loss of my own grandfather, this sweet, precious grandmother figure touched a tender place in my heart. I could just hear her pixie-like laugh, see her sunny and mischievous grin, and feel her soft hands wrap a handmade shawl around my shoulders. She was a refreshing, loving hug my heart needed.

The second thing I really loved about this book was the setting. The Isles of Scilly were almost like a character in their own right, and I could practically hear them calling my own name (coincidentally, my middle name is Elizabeth, so it’s a perfect fit LOL). I could practically feel the sand between my toes and the salty wind in my hair, hear the crashing of the waves and morning greetings from locals, and smell the mouth-watering scent of the bakery’s famous rolls. Like I said earlier, I want to pack my bags and fly there right now!

Lastly, I loved the uniqueness of the premise and the pirate lore and treasure hunting aspects of the story. The pace of the mystery surrounding Beth’s disappearance and the hunt for Mucknell’s silver didn’t unfold as quickly as I expected, and some threads of the mystery got slightly confusing for me there at the end, but the other aspects of the journey were so delightful that I loved it anyway. I’m anxious to see what “secret of the isles” the Scillonians and incomers will uncover next!

I’m convinced this book (and the rest of the series, I’m sure) would make the PERFECT Masterpiece Classic period drama. Seriously! The setting, the characters, the romance, the drama, the mystery–it has all the makings of a hit. So… someone please make this happen! LOL 😉

If you’re a historical fiction lover in need of an “armchair vacation” this summer (or anytime of the year) this is the book for you! Totally worthy of all 5/5 Stars!

**I received a copy of this book from the publisher for review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**

White has been a long time favorite author of mine. She has written another winner in "The Nature of a Lady." It has it all....pirates, buried treasure, missing person, arranged marriage, long time feud between a school master and a clergyman, a Lady and her maid {who is not what she appears to be} on vacation on an island. Throw in mystery, danger and romance and of course White has Christian faith woven through out the pages. This makes a most interesting book with a satisfying ending. All of her characters and the plot are very believable and easy to visualize. ....I was gifted a book from the publisher and I am happy to leave a review.

The year is 1906 and Lady Elizabeth Sinclair needs a holiday from both society and her mother, both of which think that she needs a husband. What Libby needs though is to be left alone to study nature. She decides to go to the Isle of Scilly for the summer with her maid Mabena Moon.

Oliver Tremayne is the local clergyman who is determined to find out why his sister Beth went missing and where did she go?

Lives and events intertwine as Oliver, Libby and Mabena work to discover what happened to Beth.

Roseanna M. White is an amazing author who knows how to tell a story. She makes her characters come alive in her books, and this one is no exception. Although the story begins in a milder way, there’s plenty of action and adventure as the book progresses. The setting of the islands adds much to the storyline, and is the perfect setting for a legend of a shipwreck and pirate’s treasure.

I loved the two main characters in this book, Oliver and Libby. Oliver is a young man who is the vicar in his community. He truly loves his congregation and they love him. Libby is a scientist at a time when this did not fit the “norm” for a proper lady and the sister of Lord Sinclair. Libby wants to be loved and accepted for who she is besides the wealth of her family. Libby and Oliver soon develop a wonderful friendship, and Oliver realizes that besides acceptance from family. As their relationship deepens, the obstacles that can keep them apart seem to grow larger.


I loved seeing Libby come into her personal faith in God and how that changes her perspective on her studies of nature. When she begins to recognize God as the Master Creator, she finds a whole new meaning in life. It’s a good reminder for all of us as well as adding depth to this beautiful story.


I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Nature of a Lady by Rosanna M. White

This was a great first book in a new historical romance series—Secrets of the Isles. Elizabeth, the main character, is different from other society ladies in that she’s more interested in science and nature than who the most eligible bachelor is this season. She’s a fun character in her mental responses which are off beat and refreshing. While the author does a great job of describing the beauty of the isles we aren’t lost in boring descriptions. Witty dialogue helps separate each character so there’s no confusion, even between the two Elizabeths. The plot consists of island-hopping, pirate treasure, dangerous villains, an overbearing brother, a woman seeking freedom, and a handsome vicar who’s trying to find his missing sister. I can’t forget to mention the grandmother who is spot-on and wise, even if she may be losing her mind. Overall, I enjoyed the story from page one. I’ve only read White’s The Number of Love but I can legitimately say I’m a fan and look forward to reading her backlist until the next one in the series releases.

Romance: Two sets of romances, both sweet
Christianese: It was a good moment of a character realizing she didn’t have to choose between two things but that they could work together.
Violence: Minimal and most of it was alluded to off-scene

The end credits hint at more in the series that will carry on with the characters in this book so I’m excited to see where (and with who!) they end up.


Disclaimer: The publisher offered a complimentary copy of this book. The review was given freely, without payment. All views expressed are only the honest opinion of a member of Historical Bookworm Review Team.


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There are two things that I have come to expect from Roseanna M. White: absolutely stunning book covers and beautifully written historical tales that draw me into the story and through time.

The Nature of a Lady did not disappoint on either front. Right from the start I was drawn into Libby and Oliver's characters. They were well written and I couldn't get enough of them. It was however the intrigue of the pirates that really drew me in. In all honesty, in all the many books I've read I cannot say that pirate ships are a topic that come up all too often... but if all the tales were like this... well that certainly should change. The story offered a beautiful blend of romance with mystery with great messages of faith too... all of my favorite aspects of a good story.

This is book one in the new series and I for one cannot wait to see what comes next!

**I received a complimentary copy of this book for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

What a beautiful picturesque setting in this story. I had never heard of the Scilly Islands and I found them so interesting I had to do my own little research and what a beautiful location it is! Definitely would love to return to this beautiful place even if its through fiction. This was my first book by Roseanna M. White so I didn't know what to expect. I have only heard great things from her so I was excited to receive this book for review.

The characters were well developed and engaging for the most part. I absolutely loved Oliver, the vicar of the town. His family was so sweet. I absolutely loved his grandmother. He truly did make a wonderful male lead and hero of this story. Libby was hard to connect with for me. She was a great character, don't get me wrong, but I just could not relate to her at all so it made it difficult for me to lover her completely. The romance for me was a bit bland. It wasn't a passionate romance. They fell for each other because they had things in common which I know it was common for the time period the author is writing in but I just wanted a little more.

Overall I thought the story was well researched and well written. One thing that the author does a phenomenal job in is making sure that the gospel message is given in a way that makes sense in the overall story. She truly explains it beautifully and I really appreciate that. I will say one of my favorite characters were actually Beth and Sheridan so I am looking forward to seeing them in the next story.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher Bethany House. I was not required to post a positive review. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

One of my favorite authors, Roseanna White always creates wonderfully unique characters. I love how they develop throughout the book. The Nature of a Lady is the same rich treat like all her previous novels and a must read for sure!

While this one took me a bit to finish (thanks to life picking up), it is in no way a reflection of the book itself. Roseanne White has knocked it out of the park again with this new series, and I cannot wait to read the next installment.

Particularly fun is reading her notes at the end of the book where she describes her inspiration for the story and seeing how real life happenings catapulted into a book!

One thing that I love about White’s writing is how she incorporates faith without being preachy. One of the main characters is a clergyman, but his approach is gentle.

The deeper dive into flora/fauna with the main character and her gentle love for the scientific was wonderful.

A favorite quote from the book: “He knows your name. Not Libby, not Elizabeth Sinclair. Your true name, the one at the heart of you that has never been spoken. He knows you, and He calls you by it. You, in all your uniqueness. You, in everything that differentiates you from others. You, in all you have in common with them. He knows you, and He calls you by name. He knows how you fit into this world.”

The Nature of a Lady
by Roseanna M. White
Bethany House
Bethany House Publishers
Christian | Historical Fiction | Romance
Pub Date 04 May 2021


I am reviewing a copy of The Nature of a Lady through Bethany House Publishers and Netgalley:




The year is 1906, Lady Elizabeth “Libby” Sinclair with her love of microscopes and nature, isn't favored in society. In order to get away from her brothers attempts to get her engaged and married off to a man who she doesn’t love simply because of his title. Libby flees to the beautiful Isles of Scilly for the summer and stumbles into the dangerous secrets left behind by her holiday cottage's former occupant, also named Elizabeth, who mysteriously vanished.





Oliver Tremayne is a gentleman and a clergymen who is is determined to discover what happened to his sister, and he's happy to accept the help of the girl now living in what should have been Beth's summer cottage, especially when he realizes it's the curious young lady he met briefly two years ago, who shares his love of botany and biology. But the hunt for his sister involves far more than nature walks, and he can't quite believe all the secrets Beth had been keeping from him.





As Oliver and Libby are drawn together to find Beth, who Libby has been mistaken for they find ancient legends, pirate wrecks, betrayal, and the most mysterious phenomenon of all: love.




I give The Nature of a Lady five out of five stars!



Happy Reading!

Flowers, treasure, pirates, English islands, mysterious disappearances... Wow! This book has it all! I absolutely enjoyed this book. It was the perfect balance of romance and mystery along with adventure. If you are looking for a book that has mystery, romance and historical fiction, then this is a great one for you!

You can never go wrong with a book from Roseanna White, and this book is no exception to that rule. Not only did White pen a fabulous historical novel, but she added such an intriguing mystery to it! I think really that's what kept me flipping the pages more than anything. I needed to find out what happened with Elizabeth! But it was even more than that. Mabena, the secondary character, had some mystery of her own. And Maam-Wyn!! Oh my goodness I just loved that woman. She had some quirky lines here and there, but mostly she kept people on their toes when she was around.

Once again White brings me to a beautiful setting that I do not want to leave. Her descriptiveness just makes the story so vivid in my mind. I can see the cottage, the shores of the island, and a few other places I can't name because I don't want to spoil it. Sorry!! But seriously, it's so easy for me to be transformed when reading her books. The characters are charming, yet struggle at one point or another throughout the book. Here we have Libby struggling with faith. Something I know a thing or two about. And so I easily connected with her character. Or Mabena. Left a certain situation (again can't spoil it), and became a maid to Libby. I may not have ran away and started something new, but I can tell you there are times I have wanted to. And Oliver - a dedicated, loyal brother. What girl doesn't want to read about a guy like that!?

Basically, this book is the start to a wonderful new series by Roseanna White. There are quite a few characters to get to know, but that's necessary to the series I am sure, as well as this novel in particular. Each had a part to play, and honestly I don't think I would have liked the story if any of them were not there. I can't wait to see what happens next! Highly recommend this for historical fiction fans.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I was not required to write a favorable review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Such an exciting beginning of a new series! Roseanna M White once again shows how she masterfully brings together a historical period. But this time, she also blessed us with a stunning setting. Such a unique take to a story.

I have anticipated this book ever since I heard how Roseanna M White came up with the idea. And I loved it! Perfect setting and endearing characters. Nothing short from what I have come to expect from White!

This was a fantastic Christian novel, and I would definitely recommend it to anyone who thinks it sounds interesting! (I also love the cover of it!)

Roseanna M White has done it again- provided a fabulous historical romance with a good little mystery! This book takes place on the Isles of Scilly (pronounced silly) and now I want to go live there! Or at the very least visit.

Lady Elizabeth Sinclair aka Libby has gone to the islands to avoid her Earl of a brother's marriage schemes but also to document plants and animals to her botany and biology loving heart's content. Accompanied by only her lady's maid, Mabena, who grew up on one of the islands, Libby enjoys many freedoms and misses none of the formality of balls or sitting rooms. In fact, she avoids telling people her title altogether. It seems the perfect, relaxing holiday for this slightly nerdy debutante.

However, when packages start arriving at the cottage for one Elizabeth from mysterious men, Libby and Mabena soon find themselves unraveling clues not the least of which is what happened to the former renter of their cottage, Elizabeth (Beth) Tremayne? Soon Oliver Tremayne, vicor from the island of Tresco, shows up looking for his sister. As the mystery grows, can people stay safe and discover the secrets that led Beth Tremayne to disappear?

One of my favorite things in this book is the community bond found on Tresco, the island that Mabena and Oliver come from. There's an amazing garden for Libby, a grandpa storyteller, a future telling and dear grandma, and Wednesday rowing races that bring the whole community together to cheer on the crews. When one community member dies, they all mourn his loss. They accept Libby despite knowing her station, calling her "their lady." On top of all the mystery and community goodness there is not one but two swoon worthy romances!

Needless to say, I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romances or mysteries. I cannot wait for the next books! The descriptions of the Isles made me feel like I was there and the people felt like family. Won't you come join me?

Thank you to Bethany House, Roseanna M White and Netgalley for a complimentary copy of the book. I was not required to provide a positive review. My opinions are my own.

The Nature of a Lady
The Secret of the Isles #1
By Roseanna M White

Lady Elizabeth Sinclair, known as Libby to her family and friends, well if she had any friends, is planning an escape. Her brother is determined to see her married to a man she absolutely can't stand, well maybe he's not that bad, but she doesn't want to marry him. And with time she hopes her brother can be persuaded that Libby doesn't need to be married off to his closest friend. So with her microscope in tow, she plans to spend the summer examining the flora and fauna that can be found on the Isles of Scilly.

But Libby's plans are soon upended when strangers start delivering parcels to her cottage for "Elizabeth". There is just one problem she is the wrong Elizabeth and she is quickly caught up in something which she is unprepared to face.

Oliver Tremayne calls the Isles of Scilly home as has his family for generations. He is content with the life he's living - a gentleman of no importance to most of England and a clergyman to his own. But when his sister disappears he finds that she has somehow created a mess that has caught Lady Elizabeth in its web. To get to the truth and to protect Libby from whatever Beth has done he will have to work together with Libby and her "maid" Mabena to unravel this mystery.

But more than mistaken identity is at play as they soon discover. Legends of pirate treasure have brought danger to the Isles and where danger lurks anything can happen.

The Nature of a Lady is the first book in Roseanna M White's newest series - The Secret of the Isles. And believe me when I say this is a not-to-be-missed book. If you have ever read her in the past you will not be disappointed as a new cast of characters takes the stage. I loved getting to know Oliver, Libby, Mabena, Casek, Mamm-wynn, and Tas-gwyn. And Libby's brother Bram - well you'll have to decide for yourself your feelings about him - I will say he is a tad grumpy - especially when Libby sets out to foil his plans for her future.

If you love Historical Fiction and Romance you will want to move this book to the top of your TBR list. And who can resist a treasure hunt that might discover the greatest treasure of all - love?

I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

Whenever I see a new historical novel from Roseanna M. White, it pretty much automatically goes on my "want to read" list, and this was no exception. I expected to love it and was not disappointed.

I felt like the story started a bit slow; but, as I continued reading, it picked up and towards the end I didn't want to put it down. I loved the characters and the treasure aspect. It was such an intriguing story and one that sticks with you.

All in all, I loved this story and definitely recommend it. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series when it releases. Side note: the cover is absolutely gorgeous - especially in person. <3

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.*

I loved the unique plot this story had. Two young lady's with the same name getting mixed up makes for quite an adventure. With twists and dangers waiting around every corner it easily kept my interest. And with the help of their friends and family, the cast of characters is one to remember. And the setting was so amazing, I loved hearing about the isles of Scilly! With the way the plot and settings where laid out, it felt different and refreshing from other books I have read. It was a great story, and I highly recommend it.



I received this book free through NetGalley from Bethany House Publishers for my honest review. The opinions are my own.

What I Loved:
Now this was an intriguing mystery! It took a couple chapters to get into but once it caught my attention, it didn’t let go.
The islands were easy to visualize, making for a cozy place to visit in the pages of a book. And I really look forward to visiting the islands and the characters again as the series continues.
My favorite aspect was the romance. There was a sweet, tender romance unfolding between the main characters, Libby and Oliver. Oliver was a real keeper. But there was another romance woven in, and I couldn’t get enough of this one. While Libby and Oliver were sweet and perfect for each other, these other two had more of an enemies to lovers thing going on and the tension between them was much stronger and more enjoyable to watch. My only real regret was that they weren’t more of a focal point.
I do want to point out that there was an odd mystical element to this one where one of the elderly characters seemed to know things that they shouldn’t have.
At the end of the day, White promises an island treasure hunt, and she delivers one!

Rating and Recommendations: I’m giving The Nature of Lady 4.5 stars. I recommend it to those looking for Christian historical romance, especially those wanting an island setting or a treasure hunt.

~ I received a copy from NetGalley. All thoughts are my own. I was not compensated for this review or required to give a favorable one.

Mystery, a treasure hunt, love and family all feature in the first book of Roseanna M. White new series, set on the Isles of Scilly. A small archipelago of islands some 20 miles off the coast of Cornwall.

Libby Sinclar is an unconventional Earl's daughter who is more interested in science and the natural world than marriage and the London Season. She is, what we would probably call a nerd today. Oliver Tremayne is a vicar and nobleman's son who is mourning the loss of his older brother to a rare mitochondrial disease when he finds out his sister, Beth, is missing after a visit to a small cottage on one of the islands.

The Nature of a Lady is about thier story, but also provides a cast of fascinating and memorable characters set in a part of Britain that rarely features in novels. The Sciilly Isles are in the Atlantic and home to many rare varieties of plant and animal life which would be a treasure trove for any naturalist, a branch of science which was still in its early days in 1906.

As the plot thickens and comes to involve pirate treature, as well as some unscrupulous individuals who are willing to kill to obtain thier goals and Oliver's grandmother, a lady of faith who seems to have rare insights into people and nature. Both characters develop and take thier own journeys, with Libby learning to love the rare landscape and culture of the islands.

Recommended to all lovers of historical fiction and Edwardian Fiction.

Thanks to the publisher for my ARC. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Although I wasn’t sure, at first, that I would enjoy this story, Roseanna White drew me in as she has with all her other books, and I was hooked. I couldn’t put it down, and when I had to, it was with great reluctance. This is an excellent mystery, an intriguing setting (I had no clue where the Isles of Scilly were before reading this story—although I’m pretty sure I had heard of them before), and, as always, delightful characters. What’s not to love about a heroine that will toe the line with most social expectations, but decides to put her foot down and go do the thing she loves most for a few months? Especially when the “thing she loves” is the study of nature—this book only grew my appreciation of all the varieties and nuances God has built into creation! And then there’s a mystery with pirate treasure…and mistaken identity…. Well, suffice to say, I thoroughly loved this book and can’t wait for the sequel, whenever that is coming.

I was given a review copy of this book, and this is my honest opinion of it.