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The Other Gwyn Girl
1671 – London
The Civil War is over and Charles II, the ‘Merry Monarch’, is revelling in the throne of his murdered father and all the privileges and power that comes with it. Sharing the spoils is his favourite companion, the celebrated beauty, actress Nell Gwyn. Beloved of the English people, Nell has come a long way from selling oranges and a childhood in a brothel, but as her fortunes have turned, her sister Rose has taken a different path. Marriage to a feckless highwayman has left Rose in the grim Marshalsea prison and now she needs her sister’s mercy to help get her out. But Nell needs Rose too. A plot to steal the Crown Jewels has gone tragically wrong, and Nell’s future with her protector King is at risk. If Rose can’t solve the riddle of the jewels both Gwyn sisters will head straight to the Tower.
Present Day
Librarian and history enthusiast Jess Yates has hit rock bottom. With her ex behind bars for fraud, Jess needs to lay low – easier said than done with a celebrity sister. But Tavy has her uses. Her latest TV project involves renovating Fortune Hall, and she needs a house sitter while she’s jetting around the world. The opportunity is too good to miss, especially when Jess discovers that Fortune Hall has links to the infamous Nell Gwyn.
Slowly the house begins to reveal its mysteries, and secrets that have laid buried for centuries can no longer be ignored. Jess hears echoes from a tragic past and as she struggles to understand her sister, Jess feels ever closer to Rose Gwyn, the sister forgotten by history but who had the fate of her family in her hands.
Bestselling author Nicola Cornick is back with a captivating, gripping, unforgettable tale of treachery and treason, love and loyalty, perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine, Elena Collins and Christina Courtenay.
The Civil War is over and Charles II, the ‘Merry Monarch’, is revelling in the throne of his murdered father and all the privileges and power that comes with it. Sharing the spoils is his favourite companion, the celebrated beauty, actress Nell Gwyn. Beloved of the English people, Nell has come a long way from selling oranges and a childhood in a brothel, but as her fortunes have turned, her sister Rose has taken a different path. Marriage to a feckless highwayman has left Rose in the grim Marshalsea prison and now she needs her sister’s mercy to help get her out. But Nell needs Rose too. A plot to steal the Crown Jewels has gone tragically wrong, and Nell’s future with her protector King is at risk. If Rose can’t solve the riddle of the jewels both Gwyn sisters will head straight to the Tower.
Present Day
Librarian and history enthusiast Jess Yates has hit rock bottom. With her ex behind bars for fraud, Jess needs to lay low – easier said than done with a celebrity sister. But Tavy has her uses. Her latest TV project involves renovating Fortune Hall, and she needs a house sitter while she’s jetting around the world. The opportunity is too good to miss, especially when Jess discovers that Fortune Hall has links to the infamous Nell Gwyn.
Slowly the house begins to reveal its mysteries, and secrets that have laid buried for centuries can no longer be ignored. Jess hears echoes from a tragic past and as she struggles to understand her sister, Jess feels ever closer to Rose Gwyn, the sister forgotten by history but who had the fate of her family in her hands.
Bestselling author Nicola Cornick is back with a captivating, gripping, unforgettable tale of treachery and treason, love and loyalty, perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine, Elena Collins and Christina Courtenay.
297 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2024
About the author
Nicola Cornick
238 books1,102 followersInternational bestselling author Nicola Cornick writes dual-time historical mysteries that draw on her love for genealogy and local history. She studied History at London and Oxford and worked in academia for a number of years before becoming a full time author. Nicola acts as a guide and researcher at the stunning 17th century hunting lodge, Ashdown House and is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Friends of Lydiard Park in Swindon. She gives talks and tours on a variety of historical topics.
Nicola lives near Oxford and loves reading, writing, history, music, wildlife, travel and walking her dog. She also loves hearing from her readers and chatting to them. She can also be found on Facebook, Twitter @NicolaCornick and Instagram.
Nicola lives near Oxford and loves reading, writing, history, music, wildlife, travel and walking her dog. She also loves hearing from her readers and chatting to them. She can also be found on Facebook, Twitter @NicolaCornick and Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
March 25, 2024
Wow! I have no other word for this story which has totally blown me away – it is a master-class in timeslip writing and I loved it! Excitement, adventure, romance and historic authenticity, together with a touch of the paranormal and magical, all perfectly blended to create a story I simply couldn’t put down. And as always, the author has loosely linked the characters to those of her previous books, which is an added bonus for me as I love to get a glimpse into their lives, however brief.
THE OTHER GWYN GIRL is partly the tale of Rose Gwyn, sister of the famous Nell who was King Charles II’s mistress in the 17th century; and partly of Jess Yates in the present century, introverted sister of famous TV presenter Tavy. The two stories are expertly intertwined as mystery and romance unfold, and I quickly became immersed in their lives and love stories. I find this period of history fascinating as there aren’t enough books set in this era – there definitely should be – and it is vividly brought to life in this story. I don’t want to reveal too much of the plot, as that would ruin it for other readers, so I can only say – read it for yourself, it’s absolutely wonderful!
THE OTHER GWYN GIRL is partly the tale of Rose Gwyn, sister of the famous Nell who was King Charles II’s mistress in the 17th century; and partly of Jess Yates in the present century, introverted sister of famous TV presenter Tavy. The two stories are expertly intertwined as mystery and romance unfold, and I quickly became immersed in their lives and love stories. I find this period of history fascinating as there aren’t enough books set in this era – there definitely should be – and it is vividly brought to life in this story. I don’t want to reveal too much of the plot, as that would ruin it for other readers, so I can only say – read it for yourself, it’s absolutely wonderful!
May 23, 2024
This was a fun little KU story about Nell Gwynn’s sister. Not sure how much is true, but I’ve always enjoyed reading about Nell, her story is fascinating. It’s paired with a modern day story of Jess the librarian who is under covering the story of nell and rose while we read about it in the historical setting. A quick, fun little read.
February 29, 2024
What a spellbinding dual timeline gem! I absolutely loved it from start to finish! ‘The Other Gwyn Girl’ by Nicola Cornick is an exhilarating fascinating read that kept me turning the pages in anticipation. The plots clip along at a steady pace featuring two main intriguing perspectives, one from the 1600s and the other, current day. We get a valuable peek into the lives of two historical Gwyn sisters (each quite different from the other) as well as two unalike modern day sisters. There are numerous parallels between the four women, though they are centuries apart.
I found that each thread was well delivered but being a historical fiction lover, I somewhat favoured that one a little more. But, I still enjoyed both and was effortlessly delivered back and for between the outstanding two created worlds. When I was transported to the 1600s, I could visualise everything due to the excellent descriptions provided. In fact, all my senses were engaged. Then when we leaped forward to the modern thread, I still enjoyed the unique setting. The house, in fact, takes centre stage becoming the vehicle for unveiling its centuries’ old secrets. It even witnesses and reveals two murders from past and present! There’s a wonderful mysteriousness about the old stately place. The sense of history that surrounds it, draws you in. I loved watching the characters interact as they moved through this fascinating building and grounds. It made me want to dig deeper to learn more, like Jess. She is a house sitter and researcher for her famous sister (who now owns it) so the old library really captures Jess’s attention. She begins to learn about its former owners with a little help from a new friend, Ethan, who just might become more!
The two timelines have positive features that compliment each other and, in fact, they blend together toward the end so we get to see the mysteries solved and dramas resolved that have been intertwined. And the old manor, Fortune Hall, is the star setting for them both.
The characterisation was brilliant in this novel with the extroverts showing off their charisma and showiness (Nell and Tavy). But I favoured each of our quieter heroines (Rose and Jess) who showed great strength and spunk in the face of danger and disappointment. The story is in fact told from their perspectives which made it all the more interesting as we get to see the world through their eyes. The villains were well formed and appropriately placed providing the havoc and suspense needed to give us plenty of twists and turns. In fact, the plot of the 1600s held lots of rollicking adventure and it kept me turning the pages at a rapid speed. The modern thread had its drama, too, but this evolved more slowly and unexpectedly. Jess has come through some traumatic events with her ex. She must heal and start again, so her new adventure with her sister helps kickstart her in a new direction. But what she finds is not quite what she expected and the outcome will bring some chilling revelations.
It was fun watching the characters of Rose and Nell unfold in living colour—particularly the lesser known Rose as in historical accounts, we know more about Nell, the actress and mistress of King Charles II. By focusing on Rose, it left the author with more chance to put her creativity into motion to fill in the missing parts. And in doing so, it helps us to imagine what it might have been like to be in her shoes in an era that was not easy for women (whether working class or privileged). It is easy to see why Nell, an extrovert used her wits and beauty to advance from poverty to acclaimed heights. She is not only adored by the king but also the people. And Rose, the more-lowly sister, (married to an awful man and thief) learned how to defend herself against the many men who tried to take advantage of her. These two sisters living at opposite ends of society, try to find ways to accrue financial support for themselves— in the chance they might end up in a tough position. In Nell’s case, if the King tired of her, she would be abandoned for another pretty face. As for Rose, she wanted independence so when the situation presented itself, she took advantage. The fear of poverty is what fuels both sisters into coveting some treasures through criminal means for future protection.
Another character I found intriguing was Guy: a soldier who exhibits lots of presence, patience and quiet passion on the pages. His relationship with Rose turns into quite a surprise—a bit of enemies to lovers’ theme here.
This was such a fun and fascinating read I highly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
I found that each thread was well delivered but being a historical fiction lover, I somewhat favoured that one a little more. But, I still enjoyed both and was effortlessly delivered back and for between the outstanding two created worlds. When I was transported to the 1600s, I could visualise everything due to the excellent descriptions provided. In fact, all my senses were engaged. Then when we leaped forward to the modern thread, I still enjoyed the unique setting. The house, in fact, takes centre stage becoming the vehicle for unveiling its centuries’ old secrets. It even witnesses and reveals two murders from past and present! There’s a wonderful mysteriousness about the old stately place. The sense of history that surrounds it, draws you in. I loved watching the characters interact as they moved through this fascinating building and grounds. It made me want to dig deeper to learn more, like Jess. She is a house sitter and researcher for her famous sister (who now owns it) so the old library really captures Jess’s attention. She begins to learn about its former owners with a little help from a new friend, Ethan, who just might become more!
The two timelines have positive features that compliment each other and, in fact, they blend together toward the end so we get to see the mysteries solved and dramas resolved that have been intertwined. And the old manor, Fortune Hall, is the star setting for them both.
The characterisation was brilliant in this novel with the extroverts showing off their charisma and showiness (Nell and Tavy). But I favoured each of our quieter heroines (Rose and Jess) who showed great strength and spunk in the face of danger and disappointment. The story is in fact told from their perspectives which made it all the more interesting as we get to see the world through their eyes. The villains were well formed and appropriately placed providing the havoc and suspense needed to give us plenty of twists and turns. In fact, the plot of the 1600s held lots of rollicking adventure and it kept me turning the pages at a rapid speed. The modern thread had its drama, too, but this evolved more slowly and unexpectedly. Jess has come through some traumatic events with her ex. She must heal and start again, so her new adventure with her sister helps kickstart her in a new direction. But what she finds is not quite what she expected and the outcome will bring some chilling revelations.
It was fun watching the characters of Rose and Nell unfold in living colour—particularly the lesser known Rose as in historical accounts, we know more about Nell, the actress and mistress of King Charles II. By focusing on Rose, it left the author with more chance to put her creativity into motion to fill in the missing parts. And in doing so, it helps us to imagine what it might have been like to be in her shoes in an era that was not easy for women (whether working class or privileged). It is easy to see why Nell, an extrovert used her wits and beauty to advance from poverty to acclaimed heights. She is not only adored by the king but also the people. And Rose, the more-lowly sister, (married to an awful man and thief) learned how to defend herself against the many men who tried to take advantage of her. These two sisters living at opposite ends of society, try to find ways to accrue financial support for themselves— in the chance they might end up in a tough position. In Nell’s case, if the King tired of her, she would be abandoned for another pretty face. As for Rose, she wanted independence so when the situation presented itself, she took advantage. The fear of poverty is what fuels both sisters into coveting some treasures through criminal means for future protection.
Another character I found intriguing was Guy: a soldier who exhibits lots of presence, patience and quiet passion on the pages. His relationship with Rose turns into quite a surprise—a bit of enemies to lovers’ theme here.
This was such a fun and fascinating read I highly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
May 30, 2024
A good read
I don't mind time slip stories but I wasn't a huge fan of this one. I enjoyed the story of Rose Gwyn but felt it would have been much better without the modern tale attached to it. I've read a few books about her sister Nell so there certainly was opportunity to expand on Rose's story. With that said if you are a fan of historical British monarchy fiction it's still worth a read.
I don't mind time slip stories but I wasn't a huge fan of this one. I enjoyed the story of Rose Gwyn but felt it would have been much better without the modern tale attached to it. I've read a few books about her sister Nell so there certainly was opportunity to expand on Rose's story. With that said if you are a fan of historical British monarchy fiction it's still worth a read.
March 9, 2024
In the 17th century, Rose Gwyn ends up in jail when she tried to steal the crown jewels with her husband. She has to plead with her sister Nell, the king’s famous mistress, for her freedom. In the 21st century, Jess moves to Fortune Hall where her famous sister Tavy is running a TV show, after a break-up with her fraudulent boyfriend. There is a rumour that once Nell Gwyn would have walked in these corridors.
Nicola Cornick has already written several stories with so-called dual timelines. In ‘The other Gwyn girl’, she chooses Rose Gwyn, the unknown sister of Nell Gwyn as a main character. And I quite liked that choice because it introduced me to a historical character who was new to me. Rose is brave and headstrong and tries to be independent but she lives in the shadow of her more famous sister. A feeling modern-day Jess experiences also.
As always, the contemporary story worked less for me. The parallels between Rose and Jess are rather cliché and the whole story around Tavy and her influencer status seems off the mark. We also see some previous characters from Cornick’s other books – I haven’t read them all so I didn’t always knew the characters. A few of them have paranormal powers and I found that too much at times. There is also Francesca who pop ups with certain predictions, but her gift is never explained.
And yet Cornick’s books read like a train. There are entertaining reads. And I definitely want to read some more about Nell Gwyn and perhaps her sister Rose.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
In de 17de eeuw belandt Rose Gwyn in de cel wanneer ze samen met haar man mee de kroonjuwelen probeerde te stelen. Ze moet beroep doen op haar zus Nell, de bekende minnares van de koning. In de 21ste eeuw trekt Jess na een break-up met haar frauduleuze vriend naar Fortune Hall waar haar bekende zus Tavy een tv-show aan het draaien is.
Cornick schreef al verschillende verhalen met zogenaamde duale tijdslijnen. In dit boek kiest ze voor Rose Gwyn, de onbekende zus van Nell Gwyn. En dat vond ik best een fijne keuze want zo leerde ik een historisch personage kennen die nieuw was voor mij. Rose is moedig en eigenwijs en probeert onafhankelijk te zijn.
Zoals steeds werkte het hedendaagse verhaal minder voor mij. De parallellen tussen Rose en Jess zijn nogal cliché doorgetrokken en het hele verhaal rond Tavy en haar influencerstatus lijkt van de pot gerukt. Ook zien we enkele vorige personages uit de andere boeken van Cornick terug. Enkelen onder hen hebben paranormale krachten en dat vond ik er soms te veel aan.
En toch leest dit als een trein. Zoals steeds zijn deze boeken een mooi tussendoortje. En ik wil zeker nog wat meer lezen over Nell Gwyn.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
Nicola Cornick has already written several stories with so-called dual timelines. In ‘The other Gwyn girl’, she chooses Rose Gwyn, the unknown sister of Nell Gwyn as a main character. And I quite liked that choice because it introduced me to a historical character who was new to me. Rose is brave and headstrong and tries to be independent but she lives in the shadow of her more famous sister. A feeling modern-day Jess experiences also.
As always, the contemporary story worked less for me. The parallels between Rose and Jess are rather cliché and the whole story around Tavy and her influencer status seems off the mark. We also see some previous characters from Cornick’s other books – I haven’t read them all so I didn’t always knew the characters. A few of them have paranormal powers and I found that too much at times. There is also Francesca who pop ups with certain predictions, but her gift is never explained.
And yet Cornick’s books read like a train. There are entertaining reads. And I definitely want to read some more about Nell Gwyn and perhaps her sister Rose.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
In de 17de eeuw belandt Rose Gwyn in de cel wanneer ze samen met haar man mee de kroonjuwelen probeerde te stelen. Ze moet beroep doen op haar zus Nell, de bekende minnares van de koning. In de 21ste eeuw trekt Jess na een break-up met haar frauduleuze vriend naar Fortune Hall waar haar bekende zus Tavy een tv-show aan het draaien is.
Cornick schreef al verschillende verhalen met zogenaamde duale tijdslijnen. In dit boek kiest ze voor Rose Gwyn, de onbekende zus van Nell Gwyn. En dat vond ik best een fijne keuze want zo leerde ik een historisch personage kennen die nieuw was voor mij. Rose is moedig en eigenwijs en probeert onafhankelijk te zijn.
Zoals steeds werkte het hedendaagse verhaal minder voor mij. De parallellen tussen Rose en Jess zijn nogal cliché doorgetrokken en het hele verhaal rond Tavy en haar influencerstatus lijkt van de pot gerukt. Ook zien we enkele vorige personages uit de andere boeken van Cornick terug. Enkelen onder hen hebben paranormale krachten en dat vond ik er soms te veel aan.
En toch leest dit als een trein. Zoals steeds zijn deze boeken een mooi tussendoortje. En ik wil zeker nog wat meer lezen over Nell Gwyn.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
March 24, 2024
I will review properly later. But absolutely loved every word. Wonderfully written.
April 19, 2024
I’m a huge fan of this author and have loved her previous books so I was so thrilled to be invited onto the blog tour for The Other Gwyn Girl, her latest book. Once again Nicola has written a fascinating, gripping read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
The book is two timelines , one following Jane in the time of Charles II and the other following Jess as she tries to unravel the mysteries of Fortune Hall. I actually liked both women and enjoyed following them throughout the book. They were actually very similar to each other and it was nice seeing them pick themselves up again after a difficult past. Jane in particular impressed me with her strength and determination not to rely on anyone else.
The author has written about real characters and real events which I always enjoy as it’s fun to learn more about a period. It was shocking to see how some people had to live and the huge difference between rich and poor. This was apparent not just on the way they lived and earned a living but also in how they were treated in the justice system with the rich able to buy pardons or other privileges whilst in prison. I hadn’t read much about Charles II either so I found it fascinating to learn more about him and his reign.
Overall, as you can probably tell, I loved this book and I’ll definitely be recommending it to others. The book has a great pace to it and there was always something happening to keep me interested. Even in the slower bits I just enjoyed hanging out with the characters or exploring the gorgeous sounding Fortune Hall, wishing I had an amazing library like they did. I did guess one of the twists early on but from talking to others I think you were meant to as it helped add to the intrigue. The ending was brilliant and I closed the book sad to leave the characters and Fortune Hall behind.
Huge thanks to Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Boldwood for my digital copy of this book. I’ve had to buy a physical copy as I know I want to keep this book on my keep for ever shelf. If you are a fan of dual timeline, historical mysteries then I highly recommend this book.
The book is two timelines , one following Jane in the time of Charles II and the other following Jess as she tries to unravel the mysteries of Fortune Hall. I actually liked both women and enjoyed following them throughout the book. They were actually very similar to each other and it was nice seeing them pick themselves up again after a difficult past. Jane in particular impressed me with her strength and determination not to rely on anyone else.
The author has written about real characters and real events which I always enjoy as it’s fun to learn more about a period. It was shocking to see how some people had to live and the huge difference between rich and poor. This was apparent not just on the way they lived and earned a living but also in how they were treated in the justice system with the rich able to buy pardons or other privileges whilst in prison. I hadn’t read much about Charles II either so I found it fascinating to learn more about him and his reign.
Overall, as you can probably tell, I loved this book and I’ll definitely be recommending it to others. The book has a great pace to it and there was always something happening to keep me interested. Even in the slower bits I just enjoyed hanging out with the characters or exploring the gorgeous sounding Fortune Hall, wishing I had an amazing library like they did. I did guess one of the twists early on but from talking to others I think you were meant to as it helped add to the intrigue. The ending was brilliant and I closed the book sad to leave the characters and Fortune Hall behind.
Huge thanks to Rachel from Rachel’s Random Resources for inviting me onto the blog tour and to Boldwood for my digital copy of this book. I’ve had to buy a physical copy as I know I want to keep this book on my keep for ever shelf. If you are a fan of dual timeline, historical mysteries then I highly recommend this book.
February 11, 2024
The Other Gwyn Girl looks at the life of Rose Gwyn - the sister of Nell Gwyn, famous actress and mistress to King Charles II. The scene setting of Restoration England was great and I was quickly immersed in the sights and sounds of the less respectable parts of London at that time, as Nell & Rose's mother ended up impoverished due to the Civil War, her husband's gambling and subsequent death.
Learning more about Rose and her life as a thief, her doomed marriage and her difficult relationship with her sister and mother was interesting, and if it had just been this I think I personally would have enjoyed the story more. I also think Cornick's idea of writing about women 'from the footnotes of history' is a great one, and enjoyed the inclusion of local and family history in the book.
Unfortunately I couldn't get on board with the dual timeline and the aspects of the paranormal. I found the accompanying modern mystery storyline to be a little flat and inwardly groaned when I realised the two stories were parallels of each other - Jess is the overlooked sister of TV star Tavy and both Jess and Rose have awful ex-partners and flee to the same house (Becote Manor) for solace from difficult/tragic experiences.
The modern characters keep glimpsing ghosts or sensing the presence of their Restoration counterparts in and around the old Manor which I felt was unnecessary to the plot - the research that the modern characters did clearly pointed to Rose having lived there. A certain modern discovery made within the last pages of the book seemed very clear to me from about a third of the way in too, which was a shame.
All in all, the book was fine, I've realised dual-timelines aren't my thing - but I'm sure many other people will enjoy this book.
The publisher sent me an advanced reader copy of the book for review but all opinions are my own.
Learning more about Rose and her life as a thief, her doomed marriage and her difficult relationship with her sister and mother was interesting, and if it had just been this I think I personally would have enjoyed the story more. I also think Cornick's idea of writing about women 'from the footnotes of history' is a great one, and enjoyed the inclusion of local and family history in the book.
Unfortunately I couldn't get on board with the dual timeline and the aspects of the paranormal. I found the accompanying modern mystery storyline to be a little flat and inwardly groaned when I realised the two stories were parallels of each other - Jess is the overlooked sister of TV star Tavy and both Jess and Rose have awful ex-partners and flee to the same house (Becote Manor) for solace from difficult/tragic experiences.
The modern characters keep glimpsing ghosts or sensing the presence of their Restoration counterparts in and around the old Manor which I felt was unnecessary to the plot - the research that the modern characters did clearly pointed to Rose having lived there. A certain modern discovery made within the last pages of the book seemed very clear to me from about a third of the way in too, which was a shame.
All in all, the book was fine, I've realised dual-timelines aren't my thing - but I'm sure many other people will enjoy this book.
The publisher sent me an advanced reader copy of the book for review but all opinions are my own.
January 25, 2024
I honestly loved this book! The story of “the other Gwyn girl” was captivating and endearing from the start. I actually ended up reading about Nell Gwyn and the seventeenth century history after finishing the book.
Based on a real person from the seventeenth century who was overlooked by historians. Rose Gwyn/Gwynne’s fictionalized story have the reader rooting for her from the moment she was a little girl. The supporting characters’ story of Jess and Ethan was equally interesting, intriguing and charming.
I have to remind myself at the end that the story was about Rose and Guy and not about Jess and Ethan. I thought that a few more chapters were needed to finish with their story but maybe, there is possible another book to follow with Jess and Ethan’s story? If there is not, then, I need to know what Rose’s horoscope says and what other historical adventures Jess and Ethan take later. Hopefully, the author will take that into consideration.
Based on a real person from the seventeenth century who was overlooked by historians. Rose Gwyn/Gwynne’s fictionalized story have the reader rooting for her from the moment she was a little girl. The supporting characters’ story of Jess and Ethan was equally interesting, intriguing and charming.
I have to remind myself at the end that the story was about Rose and Guy and not about Jess and Ethan. I thought that a few more chapters were needed to finish with their story but maybe, there is possible another book to follow with Jess and Ethan’s story? If there is not, then, I need to know what Rose’s horoscope says and what other historical adventures Jess and Ethan take later. Hopefully, the author will take that into consideration.
July 4, 2024
I really enjoyed this historical fiction novel, a timeslip story set in England in the 1670s and also the present day.
I loved Rose Gwyn and really enjoyed finding out more about her, as her story unfolded. I loved all the historical details throughout book and felt that I was transported back in time with Rose’s chapters. I liked Jess in the present day and enjoyed the way her storyline connected with Rose’s at times.
I definitely preferred the 1670s storyline as I enjoy that time period, and knew nothing about the mystery the Crown Jewels or the Gwyn sisters’ connection. In fact I didn’t even know that Nell Gwyn had a sister, so it was fascinating learning more about the siblings.
I actually did a listen /read for this book, as I when saw that Lucy Scott, one of my favourite narrators, was reading this one I bought the audiobook. Unfortunately there was also a new-to-me narrator I didn’t get on with so I switched back to my NetGalley copy.
Definitely recommended if you enjoy dual timeline, historical fiction novels.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.
I loved Rose Gwyn and really enjoyed finding out more about her, as her story unfolded. I loved all the historical details throughout book and felt that I was transported back in time with Rose’s chapters. I liked Jess in the present day and enjoyed the way her storyline connected with Rose’s at times.
I definitely preferred the 1670s storyline as I enjoy that time period, and knew nothing about the mystery the Crown Jewels or the Gwyn sisters’ connection. In fact I didn’t even know that Nell Gwyn had a sister, so it was fascinating learning more about the siblings.
I actually did a listen /read for this book, as I when saw that Lucy Scott, one of my favourite narrators, was reading this one I bought the audiobook. Unfortunately there was also a new-to-me narrator I didn’t get on with so I switched back to my NetGalley copy.
Definitely recommended if you enjoy dual timeline, historical fiction novels.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for my digital copy via the NetGalley app.
February 12, 2024
While I’m quite interested in Nell Gwyn, I don’t usually enjoy fictionalized biography. Using Nell’s more obscure sister as the protagonist was a clever idea. I don’t feel that the dual storyline added much, though. The modern tale had a bit of a chick-lit flavor that I didn’t think married well with the historical story. I wish it had been left out and Rose’s story expanded.
March 13, 2024
What a great introduction to Cornick's writing style - here's to reading more of her books, soon.
The Other Gwyn Girl was a huge hit with me and I devoured it across
two sittings.
The authors writing style is rich and descriptive, capturing the Restoration period and the Stuart monarchy perfectly.
The Other Gwyn Girl was a huge hit with me and I devoured it across
two sittings.
The authors writing style is rich and descriptive, capturing the Restoration period and the Stuart monarchy perfectly.
July 12, 2024
The was a fun historical fiction read. I will probably check out more of this authors books.
June 16, 2024
Really liked the comparison of the two stories. Didn’t like how some of the text felt like a thesaurus had thrown up on the page. Plus, what was the obsession with the word quixotic?
March 9, 2024
The Other Gwyn Girl by Nicola Cornick is a dual-timeline novel taking place in the present day and the early 1670s, offering an account of the life of The Other Gwyn Girl, Rose, as opposed to Nell, mistress of Charles II, although Nell does have a role in the book.
Beginning with events in the 1670s, the historical element of the story is well woven and told in a 1st person POV, taking in the theatre, London, the king, and indeed, the theft of the crown jewels as well as the delight of the Marshelsea prison. I was firmly invested in Rose's story and, as often with dual-timeline tales, felt a little resentful that the whole tale was not about Rose:)
That said, our modern timeline, told from a 3rd person POV, is still intriguing, encompassing the Bodleian Library, ancient letters, and a little bit of 'otherworldlyness'. The parallels between the two narratives, both 'the unfamous' sisters, worked well.
The narrative is certainly engaging, and I whipped through the book in only a few sittings, quite desperate to find out what would happen to Rose in the historical timeline.
A really enjoyable tale, well pieced together, and thrilling.
(I would have liked some historical notes at the back).
Beginning with events in the 1670s, the historical element of the story is well woven and told in a 1st person POV, taking in the theatre, London, the king, and indeed, the theft of the crown jewels as well as the delight of the Marshelsea prison. I was firmly invested in Rose's story and, as often with dual-timeline tales, felt a little resentful that the whole tale was not about Rose:)
That said, our modern timeline, told from a 3rd person POV, is still intriguing, encompassing the Bodleian Library, ancient letters, and a little bit of 'otherworldlyness'. The parallels between the two narratives, both 'the unfamous' sisters, worked well.
The narrative is certainly engaging, and I whipped through the book in only a few sittings, quite desperate to find out what would happen to Rose in the historical timeline.
A really enjoyable tale, well pieced together, and thrilling.
(I would have liked some historical notes at the back).
March 25, 2024
This was an entertaining story and Rose was a terrific, feisty heroine with great charm and spirit. It was easy to fall in love with Forster along with her, and to feel for her in her more trying times. The author’s interest in women who have been neglected by the historical record made for a brilliant premise, and as soon as I heard about this book I was keen to read it.
The modern aspect of the dual timeline was less engaging in my view, but perhaps I’ve just read too many dual timelines with a paranormal angle. Personally, I’d have preferred a straightforward historical romance or adventure concentrating on Rose and Nell, and could happily have skipped the contemporary timeline, which I found less exciting and a bit implausible.
The whole book had excellent pacing and it romped along. The well-written scenes of seventeenth century London and Rose’s journey to the country made these easy to imagine. The author is clearly very knowledgable and used just the right amount of detail to provide a vivid picture of the period without overloading the reader.
It’s the second book I’ve read by Nicola Cornick and I’ll look forward to reading more in the future.
The modern aspect of the dual timeline was less engaging in my view, but perhaps I’ve just read too many dual timelines with a paranormal angle. Personally, I’d have preferred a straightforward historical romance or adventure concentrating on Rose and Nell, and could happily have skipped the contemporary timeline, which I found less exciting and a bit implausible.
The whole book had excellent pacing and it romped along. The well-written scenes of seventeenth century London and Rose’s journey to the country made these easy to imagine. The author is clearly very knowledgable and used just the right amount of detail to provide a vivid picture of the period without overloading the reader.
It’s the second book I’ve read by Nicola Cornick and I’ll look forward to reading more in the future.
March 6, 2024
This is the second book that I have read by the author. This is another dual timeline story set in the present and the past. In this book we follow Jess who after a disastrous relationship goes to live with her influencer sister Tavy at Becote Manor. In the past we follow Nell Gywn but mainly her sister Rose who had a connection to the Manor.
I enjoyed this book but it didn't wow me. I was interested to know about Rose as I knew nothing about her at all, even googling doesn't give much more than what is covered in the book. I know a bit more about Nell Gwyn but the story is more about Rose.
I enjoy dual timeline stories and especially when they are about real historical people. This offering dud hold my interest and there was a hint of a ghost story to it. I did find some of the plot go into thrillerland and I couldn't quite get on board with it.
I would read more by the author in the future as I do enjoy these types of books. This was an OK read for me.
Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the book to review.
I enjoyed this book but it didn't wow me. I was interested to know about Rose as I knew nothing about her at all, even googling doesn't give much more than what is covered in the book. I know a bit more about Nell Gwyn but the story is more about Rose.
I enjoy dual timeline stories and especially when they are about real historical people. This offering dud hold my interest and there was a hint of a ghost story to it. I did find some of the plot go into thrillerland and I couldn't quite get on board with it.
I would read more by the author in the future as I do enjoy these types of books. This was an OK read for me.
Thank you to the publisher via Netgalley for the book to review.
March 11, 2024
I want to thank Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced reader copy of this book.
Brief Summary: Jess Yates and Rose Gwyn are connected in more ways than one.
In the days of the Merry Monarch, Rose is viewed as the scandalous sister of Charles II's favourite mistress, Nell Gwyn. However, when a plot to steal the crown jewels draws the Gwyn sisters together they must set aside their past disagreements and work together to avoid imprisonment in the Tower or worse.
Jess Yates is trying to escape the scandal of her last boyfriend stealing millions of dollars from unsuspecting business investors, many of whom are retirees who lost everything. However, she's seeking the help of her famous influencer sister, Tavy, and Jess' plan to lay low and avoid the spotlight does not go according to plan. Working as Tavy's housekeeper Jess discovers in the library that Nell Gwyn might have had a sister. As Jess attempts to learn more about the mysterious Rose Gwyn and avoid her sister's celebrity, she seems likely to stumble into her happy ending.
Thoughts: This was such an engrossing book. I loved Cornick's writing and how Jess and Rose were distinct characters but had such underlying similarities that you could see how the two stories were intertwined.
Rose and the historical timeline were more enjoyable to me as that is what I was looking for when I picked up this book. I loved how Cornick was able to take a real woman who has left little mark on the historical record and bring her to life again. I also appreciated how Cornick made Rose feel like a woman living in the seventeenth century, with the vulnerabilities around being trapped in a marriage because you're viewed as your husband's property and the fear and sorrow of childbirth.
Although Rose's relationship with Nell does feature a lot in this book I did wish that there was a bit more interaction between the two sisters. Cornick was likely trying to depict how their relationship truly was as Nell was often preoccupied at court, but it was a little sad that they did not get more time together on the page. That being said, Cornick's characterization of Nell made her a fascinating character, which she likely was in real life, and I have ordered a biography of her to learn more.
Jess was an endearing character, but I felt a lot of the time that I pitied her. She had so much happen to her in such a short amount of time and she was not given a break throughout the book. I think it is a testament to Cornick's writing that I felt so deeply for Jess, but I do wish that her character arc would have been as clear-cut as Rose's was on the page. I was also a little frustrated that a lot of Jess's story happened off-screen, such as the first get-together with friends. Also, I am desperate for more of her and Ethan.
I did not find Tavy as redeemable a sister as Nell and I am not sure if that is because there is a difference in personality or the modern technology with which Tavy was able to create her celebrity. Her actions at the end of the book made my jaw drop. I fully had to put the Kindle down and take a breath.
That being said mothers are the heroes of this book.
This is a good read if you want some historical fiction, mixed with mystery, mixed with romance, mixed with celebrity culture pick up this book, I enjoyed it and would recommend it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Self harm, Child death, Confinement, Infidelity, Injury/Injury detail, Kidnapping, Murder, Pregnancy, Suicide, Alcoholism, Death, Death of parent, and Domestic abuse
Moderate: Classism and Sexual harassment
Minor: Pandemic/Epidemic, Rape, and Sexual content
Brief Summary: Jess Yates and Rose Gwyn are connected in more ways than one.
In the days of the Merry Monarch, Rose is viewed as the scandalous sister of Charles II's favourite mistress, Nell Gwyn. However, when a plot to steal the crown jewels draws the Gwyn sisters together they must set aside their past disagreements and work together to avoid imprisonment in the Tower or worse.
Jess Yates is trying to escape the scandal of her last boyfriend stealing millions of dollars from unsuspecting business investors, many of whom are retirees who lost everything. However, she's seeking the help of her famous influencer sister, Tavy, and Jess' plan to lay low and avoid the spotlight does not go according to plan. Working as Tavy's housekeeper Jess discovers in the library that Nell Gwyn might have had a sister. As Jess attempts to learn more about the mysterious Rose Gwyn and avoid her sister's celebrity, she seems likely to stumble into her happy ending.
Thoughts: This was such an engrossing book. I loved Cornick's writing and how Jess and Rose were distinct characters but had such underlying similarities that you could see how the two stories were intertwined.
Rose and the historical timeline were more enjoyable to me as that is what I was looking for when I picked up this book. I loved how Cornick was able to take a real woman who has left little mark on the historical record and bring her to life again. I also appreciated how Cornick made Rose feel like a woman living in the seventeenth century, with the vulnerabilities around being trapped in a marriage because you're viewed as your husband's property and the fear and sorrow of childbirth.
Although Rose's relationship with Nell does feature a lot in this book I did wish that there was a bit more interaction between the two sisters. Cornick was likely trying to depict how their relationship truly was as Nell was often preoccupied at court, but it was a little sad that they did not get more time together on the page. That being said, Cornick's characterization of Nell made her a fascinating character, which she likely was in real life, and I have ordered a biography of her to learn more.
Jess was an endearing character, but I felt a lot of the time that I pitied her. She had so much happen to her in such a short amount of time and she was not given a break throughout the book. I think it is a testament to Cornick's writing that I felt so deeply for Jess, but I do wish that her character arc would have been as clear-cut as Rose's was on the page. I was also a little frustrated that a lot of Jess's story happened off-screen, such as the first get-together with friends. Also, I am desperate for more of her and Ethan.
I did not find Tavy as redeemable a sister as Nell and I am not sure if that is because there is a difference in personality or the modern technology with which Tavy was able to create her celebrity. Her actions at the end of the book made my jaw drop. I fully had to put the Kindle down and take a breath.
That being said mothers are the heroes of this book.
This is a good read if you want some historical fiction, mixed with mystery, mixed with romance, mixed with celebrity culture pick up this book, I enjoyed it and would recommend it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Self harm, Child death, Confinement, Infidelity, Injury/Injury detail, Kidnapping, Murder, Pregnancy, Suicide, Alcoholism, Death, Death of parent, and Domestic abuse
Moderate: Classism and Sexual harassment
Minor: Pandemic/Epidemic, Rape, and Sexual content
March 7, 2024
It's been some time since I last read a time-slip novel and Nicola Cornick's latest offering did not disappoint. The story is told from two perspectives; in the past, it is a first person narrative told from the perspective of the other Gwyn girl herself, Rose Gwyn. Or as the reader is introduced to her Rose Cassells. The older unknown sister of Charles II's famous mistress, Nell Gwyn, and she is caught in the middle of an extremely dangerous situation. Colonel Thomas Blood's attempt to steal the Crown Jewels from the Tower of London in 1671.
In the present, the story is told as a third person narrative, with the reader following Jess Yates, a twenty-something librarian with an interest in history who finds herself in need of a fresh start after she discovers that her now ex-boyfriend has been engaging in fraudulent activities and has dragged her into his mess. Although separated by time, Rose and Jess, find themselves turning to their younger, celebrity sisters for help. Something that will lead both women to Becote Manor (Fortune Hall in Jess' time). While Rose finds herself tasked with saving her sister from potential ruin. Jess finds herself researching Nell but finding Rose.
This is a book that draws you in very quickly and keeps your interest throughout. Having the narrative switch between first and third person helps to make the time shifts feel seem-less. It's not difficult to like Rose and Jess, or to sympathise with them. Both women are pragmatic in their way of dealing with the situations they find themselves in rather than spending time wallowing in self pity. Although both women start the novel with the wrong men, the story arc in each case leads them to finish the novel with supportive partners who help them to move forward and do not judge them for past mistakes.When we first meet Rose in the prologue; and frankly, it was the prose in one particular paragraph that had me instantly hooked to this read. She is looking back to an incident when she was five years old and the point at which she notes that her once happy life "when it had been summer" had changed with the loss of her father. Now everything joyful in her life has disappeared and been replaced by " perpetual winter". You can almost feel the colour and happiness drain out of her life. Nicola Cornick is very good at drawing you into the settings, so you're able to envisage places and scenes. Cornick's background not just as a historian but as someone who clearly has an understanding not just of the time period, it's key players, and her own research into the Craven family, and Ashdown House, also add to the appeal of this book. I particularly found it interesting to learn a little about the spy network that operated in the latter half of the 17th century, and how it may have functioned. Having studied the importance of coffee houses in relation to the public sphere and the spread of information at this particular time period, I certainly found the reference to activities of Charles' spy network in public houses of interest. Fans of Barbara Erskine and Christina Courtney will not be disappointed in this book. It will also appeal to people with a general interest in historical fiction set in the Early Modern period. This is a book I will definitely be picking up again. Although I read this as an ebook, I think my re-read will definitely be a physical copy.
*A review copy of this book was supplied in electronic form by the publisher in exchange for a frank and honest review.*
In the present, the story is told as a third person narrative, with the reader following Jess Yates, a twenty-something librarian with an interest in history who finds herself in need of a fresh start after she discovers that her now ex-boyfriend has been engaging in fraudulent activities and has dragged her into his mess. Although separated by time, Rose and Jess, find themselves turning to their younger, celebrity sisters for help. Something that will lead both women to Becote Manor (Fortune Hall in Jess' time). While Rose finds herself tasked with saving her sister from potential ruin. Jess finds herself researching Nell but finding Rose.
This is a book that draws you in very quickly and keeps your interest throughout. Having the narrative switch between first and third person helps to make the time shifts feel seem-less. It's not difficult to like Rose and Jess, or to sympathise with them. Both women are pragmatic in their way of dealing with the situations they find themselves in rather than spending time wallowing in self pity. Although both women start the novel with the wrong men, the story arc in each case leads them to finish the novel with supportive partners who help them to move forward and do not judge them for past mistakes.When we first meet Rose in the prologue; and frankly, it was the prose in one particular paragraph that had me instantly hooked to this read. She is looking back to an incident when she was five years old and the point at which she notes that her once happy life "when it had been summer" had changed with the loss of her father. Now everything joyful in her life has disappeared and been replaced by " perpetual winter". You can almost feel the colour and happiness drain out of her life. Nicola Cornick is very good at drawing you into the settings, so you're able to envisage places and scenes. Cornick's background not just as a historian but as someone who clearly has an understanding not just of the time period, it's key players, and her own research into the Craven family, and Ashdown House, also add to the appeal of this book. I particularly found it interesting to learn a little about the spy network that operated in the latter half of the 17th century, and how it may have functioned. Having studied the importance of coffee houses in relation to the public sphere and the spread of information at this particular time period, I certainly found the reference to activities of Charles' spy network in public houses of interest. Fans of Barbara Erskine and Christina Courtney will not be disappointed in this book. It will also appeal to people with a general interest in historical fiction set in the Early Modern period. This is a book I will definitely be picking up again. Although I read this as an ebook, I think my re-read will definitely be a physical copy.
*A review copy of this book was supplied in electronic form by the publisher in exchange for a frank and honest review.*
March 4, 2024
The year is 1671 and England is slowly recovering from the horrors of the English Civil War. King Charles II lives lavishly with his many mistresses, including the famous beauty Nell Gwyn. On the other side of London, Nell’s eldest sister Rose Gwyn is caught in the middle of a high-profile robbery that could cost her her life. In the present day, Jess Yates, a librarian and history lover, is dealing with her family's struggles. When Jess enters Fortune Hall to help her sister Tavy, with a project, Jess begins to follow the clues to discover the connection between the great house and the Gwyn sisters. What secrets does this great hall hold and can the reputation of the Gwyn family be saved in time? The mystery of the past and the present collide in Nicola Cornick’s latest novel, “The Other Gwyn Girl.”
I would like to thank Boldwood Books and Net Galley for sending me a copy of this novel. I have read two other novels by Cornick, “The Forgotten Sister” and “The Last Daughter of York,” and I thoroughly enjoyed both dual-timeline novels. When I heard about this novel, it was a compelling premise to me as I know very little about Nell and Rose Gwyn.
Nell and Rose Gwyn were the daughters of Captain Thomas Gwyn and Helena Smith Gwyn. When their father died, Helena had to raise her daughters to survive the cruel world, but we soon find out that Helena’s favorite is her youngest daughter Nell. The sisters may have started as simple orange sellers, but Nell’s star was on the rise as she became an actress and then the favorite mistress of King Charles II. Rose was less fortunate as she married John Cassells and now finds herself in prison for a third time, this time for the theft of the Crown Jewels, a scheme orchestrated by Colonel Thomas Blood. Now, Rose must team up with the officer who arrested her, Guy Forster, to clear her name and save her sister Nell’s reputation by finding the Crown Jewels before it is too late.
The lives of the Yates sisters mirror that of the Gwyn sisters. Jess is down on her luck after her ex-boyfriend ends up in prison and the whole scandal is splashed on every newspaper and tabloid due to her sister’s fame. Jess thinks that she is going to Fortune Hall for a reunion of sorts with her mother and sister, but that is not the case at all. Tavy, the younger sister, is a style influencer/ TV star who needs her nerdy older sister’s help with a project. Tavy has agreed to renovate Fortune Hall because of its alleged connections to Nell Gwyn and she has asked her sister Jess for help. As Jess hunts down clues to the history of Fortune Hall, alongside Ethan Sterling whose family has a connection to the home, she discovers shocking truths about the Gwyn sisters.
This novel was such a wild ride from the start and I could not put it down. The English Civil War is not usually an area of study for me, but there was just something about the way Cornick wrote this novel that I want to learn more about Nell and Rose Gwyn as well as King Charles II and his many mistresses. If you are a fan of dual-timeline novels or Nell Gwyn, you must check out, ��The Other Gwyn Girl” by Nicola Cornick.
I would like to thank Boldwood Books and Net Galley for sending me a copy of this novel. I have read two other novels by Cornick, “The Forgotten Sister” and “The Last Daughter of York,” and I thoroughly enjoyed both dual-timeline novels. When I heard about this novel, it was a compelling premise to me as I know very little about Nell and Rose Gwyn.
Nell and Rose Gwyn were the daughters of Captain Thomas Gwyn and Helena Smith Gwyn. When their father died, Helena had to raise her daughters to survive the cruel world, but we soon find out that Helena’s favorite is her youngest daughter Nell. The sisters may have started as simple orange sellers, but Nell’s star was on the rise as she became an actress and then the favorite mistress of King Charles II. Rose was less fortunate as she married John Cassells and now finds herself in prison for a third time, this time for the theft of the Crown Jewels, a scheme orchestrated by Colonel Thomas Blood. Now, Rose must team up with the officer who arrested her, Guy Forster, to clear her name and save her sister Nell’s reputation by finding the Crown Jewels before it is too late.
The lives of the Yates sisters mirror that of the Gwyn sisters. Jess is down on her luck after her ex-boyfriend ends up in prison and the whole scandal is splashed on every newspaper and tabloid due to her sister’s fame. Jess thinks that she is going to Fortune Hall for a reunion of sorts with her mother and sister, but that is not the case at all. Tavy, the younger sister, is a style influencer/ TV star who needs her nerdy older sister’s help with a project. Tavy has agreed to renovate Fortune Hall because of its alleged connections to Nell Gwyn and she has asked her sister Jess for help. As Jess hunts down clues to the history of Fortune Hall, alongside Ethan Sterling whose family has a connection to the home, she discovers shocking truths about the Gwyn sisters.
This novel was such a wild ride from the start and I could not put it down. The English Civil War is not usually an area of study for me, but there was just something about the way Cornick wrote this novel that I want to learn more about Nell and Rose Gwyn as well as King Charles II and his many mistresses. If you are a fan of dual-timeline novels or Nell Gwyn, you must check out, ��The Other Gwyn Girl” by Nicola Cornick.
March 26, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, Boldwood Books, and Nicola Cornick for giving me an arc copy of The Other Gwyn Girl to read in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I’ve been reading Nicola Cornick for a long time since I accidentally discovered one of her Historical Romance Mills and Boon titles in a holiday cottage in Devon. I loved a book so much; that I asked the owner of the cottage if I might be able to keep it (I was a very polite and honest soul as a teenager). Thankfully the nice lady said OK (the book got left behind by another guest and added to the bookshelf in the cottage for future guests).
Nicola’s writing always brings the past to life in a vivid wonderful way, she weaves the past and present together seamlessly with the dual timelines portrayed in Jess and Rose’s stories. Her historical romances are always so evocative and atmospheric – I almost could hear the Merry Monarch’s voice (he surprisingly sounds like Sam Neill). The plot is full of political intrigue, mystery, and secrets to uncover from the history of Fortune House and an attempt on the Crown Jewels that went horribly wrong. The romances Rose and Jess find are sweet, redemptive and brought to life with the gentle, tender love they both needed after being bruised by their past husbands/lovers.
The characters are lavishly detailed and well-developed – both female protagonists, Rose and Jess, and relatable – we have all been in their shoes with bad life decisions for love and bear the scars. I thought Nicola wrote with great sensitivity and care on some of the topics of grief and loss. As someone who has been in Rose’s shoes myself, I felt the scenes were written with great empathy and understanding of the mental state of losing a child.
The colourful sibling dynamics were quite interesting to view – I think Nicola captured how sisters can be with great accuracy. How things can divide a wedge between sisters, how parents treat you differently (even though they say they don’t), and how at the bleakest of times no matter what has come between you or the state of your feelings you will be there for each other. No one is allowed to execute Nell’s sister but Nell! Jess and her famous sister Tavy have a similar relationship, though I think Tavy treats Jess more as a handy family assistant than a sister, but she is there to give Jess a place to live and a job when she needs it.
A great time-slip story delving into the unknown past of Rose Gwyn’s life and the riveting historical events of Charles II’s rein and showing the dynamics of the relationships between sisters who have famous siblings in the spotlight.
I’ve been reading Nicola Cornick for a long time since I accidentally discovered one of her Historical Romance Mills and Boon titles in a holiday cottage in Devon. I loved a book so much; that I asked the owner of the cottage if I might be able to keep it (I was a very polite and honest soul as a teenager). Thankfully the nice lady said OK (the book got left behind by another guest and added to the bookshelf in the cottage for future guests).
Nicola’s writing always brings the past to life in a vivid wonderful way, she weaves the past and present together seamlessly with the dual timelines portrayed in Jess and Rose’s stories. Her historical romances are always so evocative and atmospheric – I almost could hear the Merry Monarch’s voice (he surprisingly sounds like Sam Neill). The plot is full of political intrigue, mystery, and secrets to uncover from the history of Fortune House and an attempt on the Crown Jewels that went horribly wrong. The romances Rose and Jess find are sweet, redemptive and brought to life with the gentle, tender love they both needed after being bruised by their past husbands/lovers.
The characters are lavishly detailed and well-developed – both female protagonists, Rose and Jess, and relatable – we have all been in their shoes with bad life decisions for love and bear the scars. I thought Nicola wrote with great sensitivity and care on some of the topics of grief and loss. As someone who has been in Rose’s shoes myself, I felt the scenes were written with great empathy and understanding of the mental state of losing a child.
The colourful sibling dynamics were quite interesting to view – I think Nicola captured how sisters can be with great accuracy. How things can divide a wedge between sisters, how parents treat you differently (even though they say they don’t), and how at the bleakest of times no matter what has come between you or the state of your feelings you will be there for each other. No one is allowed to execute Nell’s sister but Nell! Jess and her famous sister Tavy have a similar relationship, though I think Tavy treats Jess more as a handy family assistant than a sister, but she is there to give Jess a place to live and a job when she needs it.
A great time-slip story delving into the unknown past of Rose Gwyn’s life and the riveting historical events of Charles II’s rein and showing the dynamics of the relationships between sisters who have famous siblings in the spotlight.
March 7, 2024
This book has two POVs one is Jess who is living in what her sister is calling Fortune Manor and being remodeled by her celebrity sister Tavy. Jess has recently found out her boyfriend has been frauding in the elderly and other innocent targets out of their money and he is now in prison. She is regrouping at Fortune house as a caretaker while her sister films her show. They learn from Tavis psychic companion Francis that the house has ties with Nell Gwyn and wants Jess who is a librarian by profession to investigate with the help of Eathan who is family and ancestors farmed the land the house sits on. The other POV is of course the Glwynn girls Nell and Rose and although historically Rose was a thief, where her sister was known as the lover of king Charles as we learn about the two girls it seems Nell is a flashy watch me now type of character where her sister roses story is one a person can appreciate after time. I loved both of these characters Jess and Rose and although they have similar stories throughout with Rose marrying a swindler drunk abusive bastard he gets her involved in a scandal to steal the crown jewels and when she is arrested bike guy Forster it really is the first day of the rest of her life and although she still has to go through hardship and even prison in the end in my opinion it was all worth it. It is rare that both POV‘s are equally interesting that was definitely the case with The Other Gwen Girl. This is definitely a five star read and if you can give a star rating to an ending of the book both endings would definitely rate higher in that in my opinion I loved this book found it a superb interesting delightful read I know if I don’t read this book again I will definitely be reading part of it again in the future especially towards the end with a fabulous ending especially the one with Lord Gray… What a rake! I want to thank boldwood books and Net galley for my free art copy please forgive any mistakes I am blind and I dictate my review.
February 28, 2024
A bleak crumbling castle being used by a celebrated influencer in present times being used as a project. Jess is trying to get over being scammed by her boyfriend, who wiped not just her out of everything she had but wiped out many others as well. Tavy her very selfish sister whilst offering her a bolt hole, wants an unpaid housekeeper to occupy the house when she is away, in order to comply with insurance policies.
We then go back to 1671 when the castle came into the hands of Nell Gwyn the courtesan of the King. Rose was the “wild” sister, living on her wits, a thief, married to a highwayman and in prison. When her husband is found dead and Rose herself is pregnant, she appeals to Nell who organises her release.
But Nell like Tavy centuries later has ulterior motives. She knows that Rose’s husband and another notorious criminal Thomas Blood attempted to steal the Crown Jewels and that since they were not found, Rose may be the key to finding the jewels. Additionally Nell is being blackmailed because the locket given by the King to her is with Blood and he holds this as a bargaining tool. Nell’s position with the king has turned precarious. There is a wife and a French mistress to contend with.
Fast forward and Jess discovers a pile of old books which her sister wants to dispose of as quickly as possible. Jess discovers the link to both Gwyn girls and researches the history of the time giving an account of the lives of these two women.
Nell was the smart one but I was rooting for Rose the overlooked one. In a similar vein Tavy was beautiful, fabulously rich and self serving. Jess was the reserved one. It seemed like though so apart the women had similar characteristics, brought together at this Becote Castle.
The contrasts in characters, in lifestyles, plus the history all added interest to the story.
We then go back to 1671 when the castle came into the hands of Nell Gwyn the courtesan of the King. Rose was the “wild” sister, living on her wits, a thief, married to a highwayman and in prison. When her husband is found dead and Rose herself is pregnant, she appeals to Nell who organises her release.
But Nell like Tavy centuries later has ulterior motives. She knows that Rose’s husband and another notorious criminal Thomas Blood attempted to steal the Crown Jewels and that since they were not found, Rose may be the key to finding the jewels. Additionally Nell is being blackmailed because the locket given by the King to her is with Blood and he holds this as a bargaining tool. Nell’s position with the king has turned precarious. There is a wife and a French mistress to contend with.
Fast forward and Jess discovers a pile of old books which her sister wants to dispose of as quickly as possible. Jess discovers the link to both Gwyn girls and researches the history of the time giving an account of the lives of these two women.
Nell was the smart one but I was rooting for Rose the overlooked one. In a similar vein Tavy was beautiful, fabulously rich and self serving. Jess was the reserved one. It seemed like though so apart the women had similar characteristics, brought together at this Becote Castle.
The contrasts in characters, in lifestyles, plus the history all added interest to the story.
March 8, 2024
The Other Gwyn Girl is another fun historical time-slip of what if’s by Nicola Cornick. I have loved all her time=slips and this one was no exception.
This is a book about sisters, the good, the bad and the straight up annoying. The Other Gwyn Girl is Rose Gwyn older sister to the infamous pretty, witty Nell, orange girl, actress and lover of King Charles II. Rose and Nell were raised by their mother in poverty and have gone their separate ways as adults, but the theft of the Crown Jewels and other shenanigans have brought them together again. Rose is marrried to a ne’re-do-well named John Cassells who conspires with Captain Thomas Blood to steal the Crown Jewels. Rose is reluctantly drawn into the plot as is her sister Nell. Then enters Sir Guy Forster a spy for Lord Craven who hinders and helps Rose in equal measure.
In the present Jess is recovering from the scandal of her ex-boyfriend’s conviction for fraud. She goes to visit her tv show star sister Tavy at her new manor house Fortune Hall, formerly Becote Manor. Tavy is a lifestyle reality star who is renovating the hall for her show. Jess hopes that it will be a good place to hide and lick her wounds. Not so easy when your sister is a drama queen. Jess finds some hints that the hall may have once belonged to the Gwyn sisters. With the assistance of the former owner’s grandson Ethan, Jess starts investigating. With a few supernatural incidents and the discovery of two bodies, the adventures never end.
I enjoyed the story and found both the historical and the present day stories riveting, I was pleased to see cameos from characters from some of Ms. Cornick’’s other books make an appearance. All in all another great story from Ms, Cornick
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to read and review this book.
This is a book about sisters, the good, the bad and the straight up annoying. The Other Gwyn Girl is Rose Gwyn older sister to the infamous pretty, witty Nell, orange girl, actress and lover of King Charles II. Rose and Nell were raised by their mother in poverty and have gone their separate ways as adults, but the theft of the Crown Jewels and other shenanigans have brought them together again. Rose is marrried to a ne’re-do-well named John Cassells who conspires with Captain Thomas Blood to steal the Crown Jewels. Rose is reluctantly drawn into the plot as is her sister Nell. Then enters Sir Guy Forster a spy for Lord Craven who hinders and helps Rose in equal measure.
In the present Jess is recovering from the scandal of her ex-boyfriend’s conviction for fraud. She goes to visit her tv show star sister Tavy at her new manor house Fortune Hall, formerly Becote Manor. Tavy is a lifestyle reality star who is renovating the hall for her show. Jess hopes that it will be a good place to hide and lick her wounds. Not so easy when your sister is a drama queen. Jess finds some hints that the hall may have once belonged to the Gwyn sisters. With the assistance of the former owner’s grandson Ethan, Jess starts investigating. With a few supernatural incidents and the discovery of two bodies, the adventures never end.
I enjoyed the story and found both the historical and the present day stories riveting, I was pleased to see cameos from characters from some of Ms. Cornick’’s other books make an appearance. All in all another great story from Ms, Cornick
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to read and review this book.
March 10, 2024
I like nothing better than to time slip into one of my favourite periods in history. In The Other Gwyn Girl we are taken back to the time of Charles II and whilst his relationship with Nell Gwyn is well documented little is known about her older sister, Rose. This story sets the record straight and in a beautifully imagined story we follow the tumultuous events of Rose Gwyn's life and of her alleged involvement in the daring attempt to steal the Crown Jewels in 1671. The differences between Nell's life as the darling mistress of a King and Rose's life as the wife of a feckless thief couldn't be more different and so it is these stark differences which make the story all the more interesting.
In the modern day Jess Yates has been offered sanctuary in Fortune Hall where her celebrity sister Tavy renovates the medieval hall for her social media channels. Mirroring the discrepancy in the fortunes of two very different sisters The Other Gwyn Girl is an interesting story of siblings especially when one is more successful than the other and of their influence on each other's lives. I particularly enjoyed the similarities about events in Stuart England, whilst, at the same time, being comfortable about what was happening in the modern day story with Jess and Tavy.
Written with an authenticity which brings everything vividly to life, the author weaves past and present really well, blending them so seamlessly that I could well imagine spending time at Nell's house in Pall Mall or supping ale with Rose in The White Hart Inn in Covent Garden. I was equally fascinated by Jess as she begins to unfold the ancient history of Fortune Hall and reveals the long buried secrets of the past.
In the modern day Jess Yates has been offered sanctuary in Fortune Hall where her celebrity sister Tavy renovates the medieval hall for her social media channels. Mirroring the discrepancy in the fortunes of two very different sisters The Other Gwyn Girl is an interesting story of siblings especially when one is more successful than the other and of their influence on each other's lives. I particularly enjoyed the similarities about events in Stuart England, whilst, at the same time, being comfortable about what was happening in the modern day story with Jess and Tavy.
Written with an authenticity which brings everything vividly to life, the author weaves past and present really well, blending them so seamlessly that I could well imagine spending time at Nell's house in Pall Mall or supping ale with Rose in The White Hart Inn in Covent Garden. I was equally fascinated by Jess as she begins to unfold the ancient history of Fortune Hall and reveals the long buried secrets of the past.
March 16, 2024
1671, Rose Gwyn faces execution for her part in a plot to steal the Crown Jewels. Desperate to save her unborn child, she writes to her infamous sister Nell. Present day, Jess' life is in tatters as her husband is imprisoned and she leaves her job. She turns to her celebrity sister for a home and job...
The Other Gwyn Girl is a dual timeline novel set in the 1670s and present day.
Poor Rose has not had the easiest start in life and now she is trapped in an unhappy marriage. Her husband coerces her into joining a madcap scheme to steal the Crown Jewels but she is caught. Her only hope of surviving is her sister Nell, the mistress of King Charles II, but Nell has her own fears and needs Rose's help in return. I loved this timeline and how the life in the seventeenth century was depicted. The characters felt authentic and the danger seemed to really loom over them.
The juxtaposition of the two pairs of sisters is interesting to watch unfold. In the present day Jess' husband has gone to prison and she feels tainted and guilty by association. Her sister is a celebrity and needs a housesitter for an old manor house she is restoring. Jess agrees to help out as a means of escape and uses her time to explore the house and its contents which establishes the link with the Gwyns.
I was a little less interested in the present day timeline. Jess seems more of a passive character than her sister or the Gwyns. Rose's perspective had danger and passion and her vivacity brought her character to life. There are elements of supernatural and mystery which develop in the present day as Jess explores the setting.
The Other Gwyn Girl is a fascinating interpretation of life in the seventeenth century and I loved Rose's character.
The Other Gwyn Girl is a dual timeline novel set in the 1670s and present day.
Poor Rose has not had the easiest start in life and now she is trapped in an unhappy marriage. Her husband coerces her into joining a madcap scheme to steal the Crown Jewels but she is caught. Her only hope of surviving is her sister Nell, the mistress of King Charles II, but Nell has her own fears and needs Rose's help in return. I loved this timeline and how the life in the seventeenth century was depicted. The characters felt authentic and the danger seemed to really loom over them.
The juxtaposition of the two pairs of sisters is interesting to watch unfold. In the present day Jess' husband has gone to prison and she feels tainted and guilty by association. Her sister is a celebrity and needs a housesitter for an old manor house she is restoring. Jess agrees to help out as a means of escape and uses her time to explore the house and its contents which establishes the link with the Gwyns.
I was a little less interested in the present day timeline. Jess seems more of a passive character than her sister or the Gwyns. Rose's perspective had danger and passion and her vivacity brought her character to life. There are elements of supernatural and mystery which develop in the present day as Jess explores the setting.
The Other Gwyn Girl is a fascinating interpretation of life in the seventeenth century and I loved Rose's character.
May 13, 2024
This intriguing story about the little known sister of Nell Gwyn gives a clear picture of the hardships of poor women in 17th century London and the desperate decisions they may have made to survive. Nell’s beauty and acting ability brought her to the attention of the king but even her success was at risk. In this tale her sister Rose has made an unfortunate marriage to an unscrupulous bully who drags her into his dealings with the famous Captain Blood who stole the Crown Jewels.
In parallel we meet Jess Yates in the present day. Giving up her job as a Librarian after the shock of her former boyfriend’s imprisonment, she has travelled to Fortune Hall where her sister Tavy, an influencer and famous TV and social media star, is renovating the house under the spotlight of a TV programme. Their story reflects that of Nell and Rose, two sisters of very different character and both having difficult relationships with their mothers.
As Jess researches the possibility that Nell Gwyn once stayed at Fortune Hall, she begins to discover evidence of a woman called Rose and she becomes aware of supernatural experiences when she sees the estate as it used to be in the past. Her budding relationship with historic building consultant, Ethan Stirling helps to restore her confidence and together they investigate sources which link them to the past.
The highlights of this book are Rose’s story which give a vivid picture of 17th century life and a satisfying outcome after a life filled with suffering. The dual time chapters in 2024 are an interesting comparison showing the similarities in the human condition despite the very different context. Another very enjoyable book by Nicola Cornick.
In parallel we meet Jess Yates in the present day. Giving up her job as a Librarian after the shock of her former boyfriend’s imprisonment, she has travelled to Fortune Hall where her sister Tavy, an influencer and famous TV and social media star, is renovating the house under the spotlight of a TV programme. Their story reflects that of Nell and Rose, two sisters of very different character and both having difficult relationships with their mothers.
As Jess researches the possibility that Nell Gwyn once stayed at Fortune Hall, she begins to discover evidence of a woman called Rose and she becomes aware of supernatural experiences when she sees the estate as it used to be in the past. Her budding relationship with historic building consultant, Ethan Stirling helps to restore her confidence and together they investigate sources which link them to the past.
The highlights of this book are Rose’s story which give a vivid picture of 17th century life and a satisfying outcome after a life filled with suffering. The dual time chapters in 2024 are an interesting comparison showing the similarities in the human condition despite the very different context. Another very enjoyable book by Nicola Cornick.
May 26, 2024
Another dual timeline book by this author, this time set in the Restoration period. In the past we meet Rose, the sister of the more famous Nell Gwyn. Nell is the orange seller made-good by becoming the mistress of the Merry Monarch, King Charles II. Rose’s life, meanwhile has gone downhill; she has married a highwayman who is involved in a plot to steal the Crown Jewels and finds herself destitute in the Marshalsea prison. The only person who can help her is Nell... but will she?
This story is intertwined with the present-day life of Jess, a librarian and avid historian. Jess’s ex has been imprisoned for fraud, something of which she had no knowledge, but she has been tainted by the scandal. Jess’s sister, self-obsessed celebrity Tavy, offers Jess an opportunity to duck out of the limelight by housesitting a property she has bought to renovate. The house is said to have historical connections to Nell Gwyn and is the link to the interconnecting stories of both main characters.
I found both timeline stories equally gripping, with the Restoration setting beautifully evoked with accurate period details, such as the horoscopes drawn up by Elias Ashmole (yes, he was a real person who drew horoscopes). The modern day setting was equally good, with its descriptions of the reading rooms in the Weston library, where Jess examines manuscripts - the author has obviously conducted her own thorough research.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its interweaving plots and parallels in the lives of both protagonists. It was the perfect combination of all I look for in a story – history, mystery, and romance.
This story is intertwined with the present-day life of Jess, a librarian and avid historian. Jess’s ex has been imprisoned for fraud, something of which she had no knowledge, but she has been tainted by the scandal. Jess’s sister, self-obsessed celebrity Tavy, offers Jess an opportunity to duck out of the limelight by housesitting a property she has bought to renovate. The house is said to have historical connections to Nell Gwyn and is the link to the interconnecting stories of both main characters.
I found both timeline stories equally gripping, with the Restoration setting beautifully evoked with accurate period details, such as the horoscopes drawn up by Elias Ashmole (yes, he was a real person who drew horoscopes). The modern day setting was equally good, with its descriptions of the reading rooms in the Weston library, where Jess examines manuscripts - the author has obviously conducted her own thorough research.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book with its interweaving plots and parallels in the lives of both protagonists. It was the perfect combination of all I look for in a story – history, mystery, and romance.
January 28, 2024
What a glorious book! It is one of those books where you are quickly transported to a different time and place. Nicola Cornick's descriptions of London in 1671 are visceral, allowing the reader to feel the squalor and desperation of its people. You don't need any prior knowledge of the period to enjoy this novel because the characters are what make it work so brilliantly. Written in a dual timeline, Rose Gwyn, older sister of the famous Nell, is the narrator for 1671. "Where survival was concerned, morality often went out the window." Life has been less than fair and more than unkind but Rose keeps getting back up. In the present-day timeline, there is Jess, older sister of the flashy celebrity/influencer, Tavy. The sisters and the timelines are tied together through a centuries-old manor house, Fortune Hall.
I was enthralled by both storylines and completely surprised by the twists at the end of each of them. There were so many details that were pulled together in the final pages, bringing satisfying closure to the parallels between both sets of sisters. This engrossing story obviously required substantial research which is a challenge since women weren't considered important to those who recorded history. Let's hope that times are changing but we can honor the women who came before us by reading books like this one. I loved it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
I was enthralled by both storylines and completely surprised by the twists at the end of each of them. There were so many details that were pulled together in the final pages, bringing satisfying closure to the parallels between both sets of sisters. This engrossing story obviously required substantial research which is a challenge since women weren't considered important to those who recorded history. Let's hope that times are changing but we can honor the women who came before us by reading books like this one. I loved it.
My thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood for the digital ARC. All opinions and the review are entirely my own.
March 7, 2024
Nicola Cornick's novels are always a real treat. Her history is always accurate, but her research doesn't show - instead, you feel as if you're right there in the time period she's writing about.
In this dual timeline novel, the stories of Jess (present day) and Rose (1671) are intertwined tightly; I love the way Nicola reflects the past in the present, and vice versa. Jess and Rose both put their trust in the wrong man, and have to deal with the intrusiveness of having a 'celeb' sister, as well as having a difficult mum. And while neither of them believe in love any more, love has a way of finding them.
It was nice to read about a period that hasn't been covered by many novels in the last few years. I was fascinated to learn about Captain Blood and the failed heist of the Crown Jewels. (I did guess what happened to the missing jewels, but then again I write crime novels and it's how I would've written it!)
The scenes in the Marshalsea in the Restoration period are absolutely visceral, and a sharp contrast to the luxury of life as a court favourite. I particularly enjoyed the scenes at Ashdown House - a comeuppance most definitely deserved! The modern setting is fabulous, too - loved the ancient house, especially the library, and Jess's research into Rose's life.
Loved the characters, the two timelines were woven together well, there was plenty of historical colour and lots of dramatic tension. Definite five stars from me.
In this dual timeline novel, the stories of Jess (present day) and Rose (1671) are intertwined tightly; I love the way Nicola reflects the past in the present, and vice versa. Jess and Rose both put their trust in the wrong man, and have to deal with the intrusiveness of having a 'celeb' sister, as well as having a difficult mum. And while neither of them believe in love any more, love has a way of finding them.
It was nice to read about a period that hasn't been covered by many novels in the last few years. I was fascinated to learn about Captain Blood and the failed heist of the Crown Jewels. (I did guess what happened to the missing jewels, but then again I write crime novels and it's how I would've written it!)
The scenes in the Marshalsea in the Restoration period are absolutely visceral, and a sharp contrast to the luxury of life as a court favourite. I particularly enjoyed the scenes at Ashdown House - a comeuppance most definitely deserved! The modern setting is fabulous, too - loved the ancient house, especially the library, and Jess's research into Rose's life.
Loved the characters, the two timelines were woven together well, there was plenty of historical colour and lots of dramatic tension. Definite five stars from me.
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