Join us as we explore Rupert's whimsical change of plans, from tending to his duty in the garden, to preparing for a romantic (?) rendezvous. Billings, the valet with a penchant for impeccable fashion and a dry sense of humor, takes center stage, offering sage advice and comedic relief.

But that's not all! We also delve into Miss Sharpe's perspective, her growing excitement, and the unexpected involvement of the duchess's children, Lady Isabelle and Lady Rosalind. Discover how their youthful exuberance adds an extra layer of charm to this tale.

As we dissect the chapter's themes of social expectations, character growth, and the playful banter between Billings and Rupert, you'll find yourself drawn into a world where wit and warmth reign supreme.

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A tense encounter in the meadow threatens governess Alice Sharpe's footing. But naturalist Rupert Gardiner's timely intervention spares her pride. As he whisks her away to see a bees' nest, Alice lowers her guard once more. With a clandestine garden stroll planned, budding affection grows between them like a new garden bloom. 

Don't forget, if you'd like to buy the audiobook in full, you can get it direct from the author's shop, on Spotify, or ChirpBooks.com.

Time to learn more about our hero! Rupert is preoccupied searching for a book about bees after discovering an unusual swarm on the estate. He tasks his valet with picking out formal attire for an evening dinner while he focuses on researching the bees. Billings interrupts to deliver drawings colored by Miss Sharpe, who completed them very quickly. Rupert is impressed by her skill in capturing the details. But how to show her appropriate thanks for her incredible work?

On his way to his research, Rupert hears distressing shouts and goes to investigate. He finds Miss Sharpe tending to an injured child, Geoffrey, who fell from a tree due to his governess's negligence. Rupert carries the boy inside and sends for a doctor, remaining by his side. He and Miss Sharpe discuss the realities of a childhood without affection. Their opinions of one another strengthen through caring for Geoffrey until the doctor arrives.

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This bonus episode gives listeners an insider's look at the author's creative process by discussing two key elements: worldbuilding and playing with genre tropes.The author obsessively researches the Regency era to vividly recreate Castle Clairvoir and the historical setting for the story, filling it with period-accurate details that transport listeners to the past while avoiding info-dumps. The worldbuilding involves envisioning not just the physical surroundings - the gardens, library, rooms - but the intricate social environment governing class dynamics and etiquette. The author aims to make settings and backdrops "additional characters" that shape the protagonist Alice. While staying true to the "slow burn" romance and happy ending of the Regency genre, the author also adds fresh twists like giving Alice more agency and autonomy, nurturing female friendships, and avoiding pointless romantic conflicts. The author tries to both satisfy and subvert genre expectations in a fresh way while delivering an enjoyable love story. The discussion gives listeners a closer look at the author's creative choices and imaginative process behind building a compelling historical romance.

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The plot thickens as Miss Sharpe's world expands in this chapter. When Miss Arlen and Lady Josephine arrive for tea, new dynamics emerge that give insight into the characters. Then, a surprise delivery from Mr. Gardiner begins a new muddle of feelings. With new characters on the scene and relationships evolving, the story takes an intriguing turn that will leave listeners eagerly anticipating the next episode. With a bundle full of paper blooms, will Alice fulfill Mr. Gardiner's assignment? Or will she balk at adding the weight to her already full schedule?

As we continue in the story, don't forget: A governess in Regency England had a tricky station - not quite a servant but not quite a member of the family. She was responsible for educating and shaping the children of wealthy families, often living in the household. It could be a lonely existence, not really fitting in upstairs or down. She had little private time and her charges dominated her life. While educated, she didn't have many prospects for marriage or independence. Her upbringing was likely genteel but her circumstances as governess were reduced. Still, becoming a governess was one of the few respectable options for an unmarried, gently bred woman to support herself. 

If you're enjoying the story but are impatient to hear the whole thing in full, you can purchase the discounted audiobook directly from the author at ⁠authorsallybritton.store⁠, or anywhere else audiobooks are sold. You can even request it at your local library! Don't forget to like and subscribe, too, so you don't miss upcoming episodes!

An unexpected meeting outside the schoolroom leaves governess Alice Sharpe rattled. Mr. Gardiner has gone above her station to secure the duke's approval for her artistic assistance of his project. Though reluctant, Alice cannot deny the wishes of such a powerful man as her employer. New friendships may be her only refuge as expectations tighten around her. 

If you'd like to enjoy this audiobook in full, and support the author, you can grab the entire thing right here at her audiobook store!

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Have a lovely day!

An unexpected meeting outside the schoolroom leaves governess Alice Sharpe rattled. Mr. Gardiner has gone above her station to secure the duke's approval for her artistic assistance of his project. Though reluctant, Alice cannot deny the wishes of such a powerful man as her employer. New friendships may be her only refuge as expectations tighten around her. 

Don't forget to like and subscribe, and if you feel so moved, I'd happily accept listener support through Spotify. :-) Your support helps offset the cost of creating and producing audiobooks. If an episode-by-episode listen isn't for you, you can also head over to my audiobook shop where you can get the full audiobook download from me! Just click here.

Thank you for enjoying Alice and Rupert's story so far!

In this brief bonus episode, I answer two important questions. What goes into choosing the perfect voice to bring a story to life? Why did I choose the narrator I did for this book and the entire Clairvoir series?

Keep listening for an inside look into the importance of narrator selection, especially when accent can make or break the listening experience. Don't forget to like and subscribe, and you can find out more about me any time by visiting the link in my bio! Or click here!