Appointment in Bath by Mimi Matthews

*** Review ***

Appointment in Bath by Mimi Matthews is a delightful addition to her acclaimed Somerset Stories series. With its charming characters, engaging storyline, and impeccable historical detail, this book is a must-read for fans of historical romance.

The novel follows the story of Meg Burton-Smythe, a shy and introverted young woman who has always felt like an outsider in her community. Her solace lies in her daydreams, where she can escape the constraints of her sheltered life. However, her world takes an unexpected turn when Ivo Beresford, a dashing and gallant hero, comes to her aid one morning. Their chance meeting sparks a forbidden romance, as Ivo happens to be the son of Meg’s father’s arch-nemesis.

From the moment I laid eyes on the adorable cover art, I knew I was in for a treat. And let me tell you, this book did not disappoint. The storyline is incredibly adorable, filled with tender moments that made my heart melt. I found myself rooting for the charming characters and eagerly turning the pages to see how their love story would unfold.

What sets Appointment in Bath apart is the exceptional characterization. The characters are vividly brought to life, and the reader can’t help but become emotionally invested in their journey.

Speaking of characters, they truly stole the show in Appointment in Bath. Ivo Beresford, whom we briefly encountered in a previous book, shines brightly here as the dashing and compassionate hero. He defies societal expectations and embarks on his own path, fueled by ambition and a kind heart. Let me just say, he has earned a spot on my book boyfriend list. I couldn’t help but swoon over his gestures of affection and fall in love with his character.

And then there’s Meg Burton-Smythe, the shy and introverted heroine who captured my heart. Her struggles with feeling like an outsider resonated deeply with me, and I admired her strength and resilience. Meg finds solace in her daydreams, which I could relate to on a personal level. Her journey from a timid young woman to someone who dares to hope for her dreams is beautifully portrayed.

The chemistry between Meg and Ivo is simply electric. The slow-burn romance had me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting their next interaction. Yes, there were occasional awkward and embarrassing moments, but that only made their relationship more endearing. Matthews skillfully balances the tender and swoon-worthy moments with realistic hurdles, making their love story all the more relatable.

Matthews’s writing style is a true delight. Her words transport you to the Victorian era, immersing you in a world of grandeur and societal expectations. The dialogues feel authentic, capturing the essence of the time period without a hint of anachronism. The vivid descriptions of clothing and settings are a feast for the senses, allowing me to envision the opulence and elegance of the Victorian era.

While I thoroughly enjoyed Appointment in Bath, I must admit that the ending left me yearning for more. I longed to spend more time with Meg and Ivo during their official courtship, and I would have loved to delve deeper into the intricacies of their families’ dynamics. Nevertheless, these minor quibbles did not dampen my overall enjoyment of the story.

If you’re a stickler for historical accuracy, it’s worth noting that the emphasis of the novel is on the romance rather than an exhaustive historical exploration. However, Matthews’s attention to detail and her ability to transport readers to the Victorian era are commendable.

One aspect that sets Appointment in Bath apart from many romance novels is its clean and wholesome approach. The absence of explicit content allows the emotional connection between Meg and Ivo to shine, making it suitable for readers who prefer a gentler portrayal of love.

In conclusion, Appointment in Bath is an enchanting and beautifully written historical romance that captured my heart. Mimi Matthews’s ability to craft engaging characters, tender moments, and a vivid historical setting make this book a standout in the genre. If you’re a fan of Victorian romance and enjoy swoon-worthy love stories, I wholeheartedly recommend diving into the pages of Appointment in Bath. Prepare to be charmed, captivated, and ultimately left with a warm and fuzzy feeling long after you’ve turned the last page.