LESSON ONE: Stand in the way of the Windy City’s criminal world and expect a most improper proposal from an eligible gentleman in return.
With her father dead, her fortune stolen, and her fiancé casting her aside, Miss Drusilla Merriweather’s privileged life has been upended. She is left with only one option: to provide for her family by opening a finishing school in the allegedly haunted castle she’s inherited from her eccentric aunt. However, her plan is immediately threatened by unscrupulous developers keen on claiming the coveted estate for themselves by any means necessary.
Mr. Rhenick Wittenbecker, a dashing architect with a tendency to charm his way out of trouble, is convinced he can protect Drusilla but is challenged by her fierce independence. Yet when strange occurrences–walking suits of armor and unexpected ghostly visitors–arise within the castle’s grounds, Drusilla must decide whether to risk her family’s safety and her school on the gallant architect who seems to have found his way into her heart.
Laugh-out-loud witty banter, swoon-worthy romance, and delightful mischief in the Gilded Age string together this entrancing series starter. Fans of clean romance, Christian fiction, and strong female characters will enjoy this read.
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Sexual Content - 1/5
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Violence - 2/5
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Language - 0/5
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Drugs and Alcohol - 0/5
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Summary
A Lesson in Propriety is the first in Jen Turano’s new Merriweather Academy for Young Ladies series, and it’s a delightful blend of humor, heart, and a dash of mystery. While the opening moved a bit slowly, the story hits its stride once we arrive in Chicago and meet the swoon-worthy Rhenick Wittenbecker.
After a devastating financial scandal leaves Drusilla Merriweather and her family destitute—and jilted by her fiancé—she and her eccentric relatives take possession of a run-down Scottish castle inherited from Aunt Ottilie. Their bold plan? Open an academy for young ladies, teaching etiquette and propriety. But turning a haunted, crumbling estate into a respectable school is no small feat—especially with rumors of ghosts, lurking mobsters, and greedy land developers circling.
Enter Rhenick, a kind-hearted and honorable architect who quickly becomes their unexpected protector. Though Drusilla is fiercely independent and determined not to rely on any man again, Rhenick’s steady presence, heroic actions, and growing affection gradually break down her walls.
Turano creates a cast full of vibrant and memorable characters. Drusilla’s fierce resolve, Irma’s dramatic flair, nerdy Annaliese with her mischievous ferrets, and talented Seraphina each bring their own spark. I also adored Rhenick’s mom and sisters. The humorous chaos—raven attacks, ghostly mysteries, and unconventional animal companions—adds to the book’s charm.
Rhenick is a stand-out romantic hero, unwavering in his devotion, and his witty banter with Drusilla makes their relationship both sweet and satisfying. The light suspense surrounding the mafia subplot keeps the pace lively without overshadowing the romance.
With strong female leads, heartwarming romance, and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, A Lesson in Propriety is a delightful historical rom-com. I’m already looking forward to the next book—hopefully Seraphina’s story!
Kissing
someone is trying to get them to leave the castle, shooting, kidnapping