The Nonesuch (Regency Romances)

4.5 stars

The meaning of the title is given within the pages or even as headings on several reviews in the store. And taken from the book of the same name "The Corinthian" is its definition: “A most desirable man, top-of-the-trees. Not only was he athletic, having probably boxed with Gentleman Jackson at Jackson's Saloon (Bond Street), but he was a leader of fashion, a superb driver (of carriages, etc) and probably very well connected and rich.”

There are many clichés, words, idioms and phrases which tested my ability to discern the definition from context, i.e., damned caper-merchant, a Long Meg, ninnyhammers, Macaroni merchant, pot-sure, gudgeons, Bartholomew baby, cream-pot marriage, a ridotto, queer stirrups, a wet-goose and a lobcock, etc. I did wish for the inclusion of a glossary.

The first 10% of the book is full of stage setting, the introduction and background of the various characters and their behaviors so much so that I picked this book up three times and put it down again twice. (I did go back and note the names so as to lessen my confusion.) But then it did draw me in and kept my interest. More than one review compares this story to Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. I must say that as I was reading the same thought entered my mind…from locations in Hertfordshire and Derbyshire to the characters of Sir Waldo and Ancilla reminding me of Darcy and Elizabeth to others reminding me of Jane, Bingley and one spoilt termagant bringing Lydia Bennet to my attention.

Sir Waldo Hawkridge, mid-thirties, has been named the heir of a rich uncle, much to the dismay and consternation of not a few relatives. Among them are several younger male cousins, one whom he takes under his wing and the other whom he bails out of trouble or gives aid on occasion. Part of the estate includes a Broom Hall, Yorkshire property subsisting on the rents of various farms and holdings. Hints are that he wants it for another Orphan Asylum. (The author doesn’t give us the complete background for this supposition until late in the story.)

We learn of the residents in and around the country parish whose centre was the village of Oversett, in which Broom Hall is situated. Among these is a Mrs. Underhill who has taken in a beautiful niece, Tiffany Wield, who due to her behaviors has been sent to that household. Mrs. Underhill has hired a governess-companion, Ancilla Trent, who seems to be the only one who can control or even limit some of Tiffany’s outrageous conduct. This is a child who will take off unescorted even in the middle of the night if it pleases her and who throws the worst of tantrums if she does not get her way or if she is not the center of attention…and she is not officially out yet.

Much of the story centers on Tiffany and the reactions of more than one man who comes to be introduced to her. And on the other side of the pendulum is Ancilla Trent, observing and attempting to moderate or manipulate Tiffany, doing damage control. Ancilla has come from a good family but her father died and left the family with few resources. She was given a season in London but found no suitable men to marry… “She would only marry for love”. So she takes a position in a school and then as a companion-governess, when the head of the school recommends her as being able to thwart some of Tiffany’s misconduct.

When Sir Waldo come to look at Broom Hall and finds he will need to give it more time, attention and money than he thought, he takes up residence and joins in the local society. When he meets Miss Trent he can see that she is not one to put herself forward as so many young ladies do to gain his attention. Yes, she is beneath him in consequence, she has no dowry and she tries very hard to sit in corners and not draw attention…she knows her place. Joining Sir Waldo are first his cousin, Lord Julian Lindeth, and later, another cousin, Laurence Calver. They too join in the entertainment available.

This story is very intriguing and with more than one romance playing out. And, of course there must be misunderstandings. I must say part of what made me the happiest was seeing Tiffany put in her place…and at times, when she didn’t even realize what was happening until it was a done deal.

I was not happy with the very abrupt ending. I have only read six other Heyer novels and this seems to be one of the author’s trademarks in her writing style but this ranks near the top of my favorites among her books. I highly recommend this novel.

After reading maybe ten Heyer novels I can say that this is my absolute favorite, for several reasons. First, the love story: the hero and heroine are aged within five years of each other and their love story is subtle. It's not that I don't believe a thirty five year old man can fall in love with a girl half his age, it's just nice to see a love story where they are more equal in temperament and understanding. The second reason that this is my favorite is the abundance of quality side characters for which Heyer is well known. There are gossiping
neighbours, weak willed parents,squabbling cousins, air headed young men as well as quality ones, but the best is Tiffany, the main character's charge. Tiffany is outrageouslyselfish, childish and difficult but what makes her wonderful is her believability. Reading about her will bring to mind so many real life examples that are too genuine to ignore. She has a male counterpart in the hero's nephew whose selfishness is better disguised from more experience and tact.
Of course you'll find the Heyer hero ideal: excellent with horses, handsome, suave and flirty but with real character underneath. Though no Heyer heroine is strictly typical this one is pretty, sensible, stubborn, patient, intelligent, and slightly flirty. I'm a sucker for sweet moments and this one has many, mainly between the hero and heroine, in which you feel a strong understanding between the two and a sense that they were made for one another. This novel is also a change of pace in that it takes place in York rather than in Bath or London and captures the atmosphere of being in a place where you are stuck with the same set of people when socializing.
Overall there is a lot of discerning commentary on human nature that are profound as well as entertaining, and well worth the read!

I'm enjoying rediscovering Heyer in audiobook. The dialogue lends itself to this medium and with a good narrator can keep you smiling.

Some people complain that Waldo is almost too good. I like that in a hero. Especially when he can be a manly man at the same time. Cos Waldo is very much a man. He is 'top-of-the-trees' in most forms of sport he undertakes so he will be *cough* well built and physically fit with lots of stamina.

Ancilla is rather adorable, having put aside her hopes and dreams of love and marriage to be an independent woman and not be a burden on her family. She deserves the best of happy endings. I love how Waldo brings out the mischievous side of her and her sense of humour which no-one else has ever really appreciated.

Some have criticise her reaction to the misinformation about Waldo's secret. I think her reaction and reluctant belief is very credible. Heyer makes sure we understand that Ancilla's only real experience with the Corinthian Set of which Waldo is a leader, is though her cousin Bernard and his friends. These are very likely the kind of loose young men who would do what Ancilla believes Waldo to have done and not see it as very wrong. Combine this with the kindly meant warnings of Mrs Chartley, the half understood ramblings of Waldo's nephew, and it's not surprising that Ancilla is forced to believe the worst.

The romance itself is very sweet, growing day by day to it's natural conclusion rather than a thunder-clap of Love at first sight. We can see how perfectly matched they are which makes it doubly hard when things go wrong.

Ancilla's charge, Tiffany, is annoying and irritating but not enough to spoil the book, especially as we are meant to find her so. The other characters are well drawn and enjoyable.

"Nonesuch" - such an interesting book title which literally means - "A Person Without Equal - A Paragon." In Ms. Heyer's book by this title, the reader is intrigued as to exactly how the term will be personified in the individual so named. Not to worry, because Ms. Heyer always lays a great foundation for the characters in her stories and very soon the reader is apprised of exactly who and what the "Nonesuch" is as well as all his amazing attributes.

Indeed, Sir Waldo Hawkridge is the most elevated of the elevated personas among his peers and is basically a person to be admired, looked up to and for the younger set - the image of a hero who is nearly superhuman. He is handsome, wealthy, honorable, a bachelor and a Corinthian whose feats are told, retold and often embellished.

When old Joseph Calver leaves his decaying residence - Broom Hill to Sir Waldo, he soon finds himself traveling north to Oversett, along with his young companion, Lord Lindeth, in order to inspect his new property with thoughts of turning it into a home where he will base yet another one of his charities for young orphans. When the residents of the community realize who is coming to their area, they are in absolute wonderment, including all the young men who cannot wait to meet and greet a legend. Then, there are the ladies who have marriageable young women in their care - how can they allow this opportunity to pass them by without giving it their all. Chief among the latter group is Mrs. Underhill who is currently responsible for her beautiful, rich, spoiled niece Tiffany. Last, but not least, there is Tiffany's sophisticated, mature, lovely governess - the redoubtable Miss Ancilla Trent.

Very shortly, the locals are coming up with all sorts of social activities and events for the express purpose of reaching out to Sir Waldo and Lord Lindeth. Expectations and hopes are being raised in the hearts of some ladies - young and old. Those who appear to have the most and and are admired for their looks soon find out, some things are more important than what is on the outside and indeed, our Nonesuch is not a shallow person - neither is his young companion, Sir Lindeth. Both have character and heart and it is more than skin deep. Very soon, hearts are entwined, some gentlemen and ladies who had not thought to have their lives turn out so fortuitously are surprised and all comes about in the end.

"The Nonesuc"h is a historical romance set in regency-era England. While the story was very funny, it was based on an excellent portrayal of human nature instead of outrageous but charming behavior by the heroine. The characters were engaging (except the spoiled heiress, and she wasn't supposed to be), and they acted realistically. I always understood why the characters acted like they did, and I enjoyed the romances.

The story didn't have much suspense since there didn't seem to be much danger of anyone truly not ending up with the right person. The spoiled girl made for a bit of excitement near the end with her escapade, and I was always wondering what she would do next and how Waldo and Ancilla would cleverly handle it. Personally, I loved every minute of the story and didn't find any of it slow-paced. The historical details about their everyday lives were vivid and flowed naturally as a part of the story.

There was a misunderstanding at the end that wouldn't have lasted long if they'd just discussed it (and it didn't last long in any case), but I had to laugh when it happened. The source of it had been worked into the story from the start, and the reasons why it didn't immediately get cleared up (including it being something that a woman with good manners wouldn't talk about) were convincing.

There was some explicit bad language. There was no sex. Overall, I loved this novel and would highly recommend it to those who like slower, gently unfolding romances.

The "Nonesuch" is Sir Waldo Hawkridge, a leader of the athletic and sporting set of not-quite-dandies known during the English Regency as "Corinthians," and no one can touch him when it comes to boxing or racing a curricle or riding in the hunt. He's also very wealthy and all his relatives are surprised when their tight-fisted Cousin Joseph Calver leaves Waldo his entire estate. (Largely because he was the only one of the family not to annoy the old man with all the reasons why he ought to be the heir.) Now Waldo is journeying up to Yorkshire to look the property over and see how much rehabilitation might be required (he might just add it to his string of homes for urban orphans, and his much younger favorite cousin, Lord Julian Lindeth, goes along for the ride. At the other end of the road is a community of country folk of the sort Heyer likes to stir together, just to see what pops up. Most notable among them is the job-droppingly beautiful, seventeen-year-old Tiffany Wield, a spoiled, headstrong, selfish, self-centered heiress who is convinced that (and behaves as if) the world revolves around her. Lindeth, of course, becomes her latest conquest, and Sir Waldo undertakes to keep him out of trouble, even though my lord is not a minor. Tiffany's governess-companion, Miss Ancilla Trent, is much more gently born than her position would indicate, as well as intelligent and straightforward, and Waldo himself is soon smitten. The narrative proceeds as you might expect -- there are no great surprises -- but the journey to the story's resolution is thoroughly entertaining. The characters, as almost always in Heyer's historical romances, are nicely developed and fully realized -- if only she would cut back a little on the period slang and cant. Or else include a glossary, because even with my background in history, there are words and phrases I don't know. Still, this one is at the upper end of the Heyer spectrum.

I began reading Georgette Heyer when I was about 15. My mother had them all by the time I was in Jr. High. One rainy day I had nothing else to do (In the early 70s, one found oneself in that situation more often than in these times of cable TV and the internet.), and I picked up my mom's copy of this book.
Needless to say, I read it in a day, and by the end of the 3 day weekend I had devoured 3 more Heyer novels.

This is less lighthearted than many of her books, but one of my favorites, for sure. I love that Heyer wrote about flawed people in extraordianry situations. Perhaps it makes me feel better about my own flaws, but I think it makes the characters more real, more believable.
I was learning French at the time I first read "These Old Shades", and that added to my enjoyment, too.

Heyer researched this historical era thoroughly. I've seen sketches she drew of the clothing, and many pages of facts about the time period. Her own life wasn't as lovely as the lives she gives her heroines...at least, they had problems, too, but all got happy endings. I'm not certain she ever got that.

Years later I was in the library looking for a book to read while caring for my first newborn, and stumbled across a writer by the name of Jane Austen. I had no idea who she was, and found "Pride and Prejudice" as enjoyable as a Heyer novel, to my utter surprise. These two ladies, above all, have written romances I can stand reading. No sexual situations, very little profanity (and none of it gratuitous, IMO), and sparkling, witty dialogue that's at times so droll!

I can't recommend an author more. Enjoy!

I'd read several of Georgette Heyer's books before this one. While I loved the witty dialogue, the rich language, the attention to period detail, and the characterization, there was always something that kept those books at the 4-star level for me. An enjoyable light read, yes, but not a beloved must-have book. This was the first of her books to earn the 5-star rating from me.

I think it's mainly because I like both of her main characters exceedingly well. Sir Waldo Hawkridge is known as The Nonesuch, a man without equal, one of the Corinthian set. But, he is exceedingly down-to-earth, a charitable man who doesn't think more highly of himself than he ought, and with a wonderful sense of humor to boot. Miss Ancilla Trent is a lady born, but when her family fell on difficult times, she became a teacher in a girls' school and is not ashamed of it, but has accepted her new place in society. Sir Waldo finds her as the companion to a spoiled rich girl used to turning everyone's head. But, it is Miss Trent who eventually turns his head. Both characters were very likeable, and well-developed, and it was a pleasure to see them end up together, with some obstacles along the way.

As with Heyer's other books, this has the wit and dialogue and great characterization (including some minor characters). It also is "clean." Her characters share no more than one or two kisses/embraces (even that not described that much), usually when they have come to be engaged, but the romance is still believable. And, in my book, it's much more pleasurable to read. There is a scattering of mild profanities and a very small number of casual uses of the Lord's name in exclamations, but not so much that I have a problem with just skipping over them.

Overall, I would recommend this book as one of Georgette Heyer's best, and an excellent starting point for someone interested in trying her books.

If you have not read any Georgette Heyer than you are in for a treat. She is an extremely intelligent and witty author and this is more than apparent in her writing and her characterization. She provides characters that are fallible and interesting. The romance is always above par. Her writing style is much like Austen's using the same wording from the regency period which to some may be hard to read... but if you have read regency novels that are written in this way you will have no trouble. There is humor throughout and very strong male and female characters. As for the Nonesuch, I absolutely loved him as a romantic lead and I am sure that anyone would agree that the plot is lively, fun, and holds your attention from beginning to end. I finished this book in less than 3 days because it was very hard to put down.

This is one the most light hearted of Georgette Heyer's Regency novels and one of my favourites. Sir Waldo Hawkridge inherits Broom Hall in Yorkshire. He visits the house with his cousin Julian Lindeth and both of them quickly become popular in the neighbourhood most especially with Miss Tiffany Weild and the other young ladies in the area. But Sir Waldo seems to be more interested in Tiffany's companion Miss Ancilla Trent.

I loved the characters in this novel - Ancilla and Sir Waldo especially. Mrs Underhill, Tiffany's aunt, is also excellent with her down to earth practicality and common sense. Tiffany herself is a monster of selfishness and probably one of Heyer's most unpleasant female creations but she is so unaware of her behaviour that people soon realise what she's like even though they are impressed by her looks when they first meet her.

The dialogue and the plot are as ever extremely well done and no one can match Heyer for her portrayal of the Regency period with its different manners and morals.

This Heyer stands out for making the well-rounded, virtuous characters so wonderfully attractive while the spoilt, self-interested fools couldn't be more tedious.

The unassuming but well born Miss Ancilla Trent is governess to the spoilt and dangerously beautiful heiress Miss Tiffany Wield, and has a difficult time keeping her charge out of mischief.

When the famed sportsman Sir Waldo Hawkridge inherits a dilapidated house in their village, Tiffany sets about adding him (as well as his cousins) to her list of admirers. But Sir Waldo is perceptive, and it's not long before he's able to see past Miss Wield's dazzling beauty to notice her far more interesting governess.

Highly recommended as an engaging romance with some substance.

Instead of her more usual London or Bath settings, in this delightful novel - which is a comedy of manners every bit as much as a romance - Heyer takes her characters to the village of Oversett, in Yorkshire, close to Harrogate and Leeds. Sir Waldo Hawkridge has just inherited the run-down and ramshackle estate of Joseph Calver, purely on the basis that Sir Waldo was the only relative 'who paid as little notice of me as I did of him'. Naturally, there are relatives who are unhappy about this bequest, and these add a further element of humour to the tale, especially when one - Laurence Calver - follows Waldo to Oversett.
Society in Oversett may not be what Sir Waldo is accustomed to, but the local residents are very quick to include him in their activities: balls, routs, simple country dinners, the ridotto that no-one came to, and quiet evening entertainments. It helps that Sir Waldo is known in London circles as 'The Nonesuch', a great Corinthian admired by many. And his nephew, Lord Lindeth, a charming and handsome young man, is of course the delight of the young unmarried girls.
However, Sir Waldo appears to be most intrigued by Ancilla Trent, who is, she informs him, a most superior governess/companion. Her charge is the Beautiful Miss Tiffany Wield, quite the most lovely girl Sir Waldo has ever seen... but whose personality by no means matches her looks.
This is where Heyer's talent for humour comes to the fore. Tiffany is an incredibly selfish and self-centred young woman, and Waldo and Ancilla frequently join forces in a hilarious manner in order to make her see the error of her ways - not to criticise her, for she would refuse to listen, but to persuade her that such behaviour would cause her to lose her looks, or to make the mythical Marquis she wishes to marry to have a disgust of her.
Ancilla certainly finds Waldo's company congenial - and more than that, he makes her laugh. But it never occurs to her that his interest in her is any greater than the fact that she is intelligent and can actually make conversation - after all, one of these days he will return to London and forget all about the governess he knew briefly. However, she doesn't know Waldo...
This is a lovely, entertaining read, full of deliciously entertaining character studies (Tiffany, Mrs Underhill, the Squire, Mrs Chartley, Laurie Calver and many more), witty dialogue, a gentle secondary romance and, of course, the main love story, between Ancilla and Waldo. This is another of Heyer's 'older heroine' novels, subtle, romantic and very enjoyable. Highly recommended!

What follows is not a review - just a few thoughts about The Nonesuch. I would think anyone looking at the reviews here probably knows the plot anyway!
I really think that the whole of my adult reading life has been spent looking for something to fill in the gap left on Georgette Heyer's death. I first read Austen in high school and discovered Heyer in my freshman year at university when someone suggested to me that she was "the next best thing to Austen". I guess that was a truth self-evident.
I've read thousands of romances, sandwiched in between the serious history and biography I adore, on buses, trains, in the car, in waiting rooms, during hurried lunch hours and in bed at night to relax after another stressful, hectic day. But, really, if I am honest with myself, there are just a very, very few authors that are on my keeper shelf. Hundreds of authors have come and gone for me. Some I have dismissed after reading a chapter as too puerile, too facetious, too ill-researched, too derelict in the simple use of the English language.
Heyer, however, rarely disappointed. I adore her later books, filled with characters of great wit, insight, morality and self-knowledge who mature and come together through real life experiences - all conveyed in prose of the very highest standard. I guess that's it - Heyer's exquisitely wrought prose telling stories of genuine human emotional experience, all carefully and perfectly set in the Regency world - immaculately researched and painted for the eager reader.
The Nonesuch is, of course, one of my favourites - and I expect I would say that about most of her works. But Sir Waldo and Ancilla so perfectly epitomise adult love, good works and social constraints and decent moral standards that you have to love them. Village life is portrayed beautifully - so much remains the same!
Rant, rant, rant. Every time I go back to Heyer, I am demoralised when I pick up a modern "wanna be". What to do about that?

In Regency England, a Nonesuch is the title given to a gentleman who excels in all of the manly sports such as riding, driving, boxing and fishing and the hero of this story, Sir Waldo Hawkridge, is just such a man. When he was bequeathed a huge, rundown house by a relative, he decided to rebuild it to house and educate orphans, a scheme which he had already executed in other parts of the country. Several of his relatives are not in favour of vast sums of money being spent on "dirty, scruffy brats" as they put it but as Waldo is already the possessor of an immense fortune, he does not hesitate to proceed with his plan. His young cousin Lord Lindeth who is bored with the repetition of town life, elects to accompany him to the West Riding to inspect the property and is noted by the unmarried young ladies of the district as a possible matrimonial catch, especially the superbly beautiful, very rich but thoroughly spoiled Tiffany Wield who is staying with her aunt until she officially comes out in the Spring. She is nominally under the control of her well born but penniless governess, Ancilla Trent who struggles daily to make the heiress conform to the rules of polite society, to little avail. This is a charming, pleasant and easy book to read with no filthy language, murders, blood letting or rough sex and is a delightful change of pace for this reader. When I feel that I need a mind wash, I always retreat to Georgette Heyer to feel clean again.

From memory The Nonesuch was one of the first Regency romances that I read, I was very impressed, certainly enough to find more
The book is placed for the most part in Yorkshire, which at this point in time started to see the appearance of the Neuveau Riche, who had made their money from the wool or other trades that were happening in the area. As always Georette Heyer is accurate historically, I like the difference between what is acceptable at a private dance and a public dance for example. The language used is correct, the minor characters are interesting in themselves. Laurence Calver for example definitely has my sympathy.
From the dust cover of the Heinemann edition....
Old Joseph Calver's will is a surprise to all his relations and a disappointment to most of them. Its consequences also cause a great stir in the parish of Oversett in the West Riding when the news arrives that Sir Waldo Hawkridge is coming north to inspect his inheritance, the late Mr Calver's decaying residence, Broom Hill. For Sir Waldo is the most discussed man in London Society, wealthy, handsome, still a bachelor, the acknowledged leader of the Corinthian set, and known as the Nonesuch for his athletic prowess.
At the Manor and the Rectory, and particularly at Staples, the home of Mrs Underhill, where her tempestuous, beautiful niece, Tiffany Wield, and her governess-companion, Miss Ancilla Trent, are also living, there is excited anticipation of the increase in social activity which the presence of the Nonesuch will bring. The young men of the neighbourhood look forward to learning from him all the latest refinements of dress and the most daring new tricks to be performed with well-bred horses, while their elders express their doubts about the expensive habits in which they expect the None-such to encourage their wives and children. Both excitement and doubts increase when it is heard that Sir Waldo is accompanied by his young cousin, Lord Lindeth.
Miss Heyer writes with her usual wit and grace of the commotion which the arrival of the two fashionable strangers inspires, of Sir Waldo's real intentions and of the unexpected train of events to which they lead. The Nonesuch ranks amongst the most entertaining and accomplished of her Regency romances.

Ancilla Trent is the preceptress of what probably has to be one of the most spoiled beauties that has ever disgraced a comedy of mannersl. Tiffany Wield is a character who would have been very annoying to have to deal with in real life, but totally amusing as Heyer presents her in this novel set in a small community.

If you aren't already a Heyer fan then you may not be prepared for the long conversations introducing Sir Waldo Hawkridge and his relations and associates. Be patient, this sets up the story nicely. Also, there isn't any sexual activity which may put some readers off, but is to be expected in a Heyer novel. It isn't an inspirational though, so don't be afraid you will be preached at.

Sir Waldo has just had the misfortune to inherit a property in Yorkshire that it is likely he will have to spend a significant amount of money putting it into shape. He is determined to go and view it, accompanied by his nephew Lord Lindeth. Of course the arrival of Sir Waldo, nicknamed the Nonesuch and his nephew throws the neighborhood into a flutter of excitement including Miss Tiffany Wield, who is determined that none should escape her toils.

Once the plot gets underway this is a delightful story although not among my favorite Heyers. Lots of sprightly dialogue and a heroine and hero who one wishes well from the start.

As for the narration by Eve Matheson, above average although I could wish for better location and period accent. The book is set in upper class London and among various social classes in Yorkshire. Comparing this audiobook to Daniel Philpotts reading of The Unknown Ajax, Ms Matheson lacks range in both location and period although someone not familiar with the book might find it easier to understand her interpretation of the text. Her pronunciation is consistent and clear.

I would also like to say that the cover on the audiobook is remarkably uninspiring. If this is meant to be Sir Waldo he certainly does not appear to be a sportsman and boxing enthusiast. In fact he appears more than a bit hangdog.

Every once in awhile I have to escape reality, and Heyer romances are a wonderful free vacation. This novel never fails to delight, and features one of Heyer's most heartless characters - a beautiful young minx who provides (unintentionally) some hilarious scenes. This is light, great fun and a wonderful refreshment if you're looking to get away from it all for awhile.

And I appreciate being able to read it as a KU borrow!

Every single Heyer regency romance can be summarized with words like delightful and charming. They are Jane Austen easier to understand and over the top filled with tongue in cheek and quirky humor. I believe the Nonesuch is one of Heyer’s best.

I love this book! This is my favorite Heyer novel by far. The dialogue is very funny and witty and the hero and heroine are both "good" people. (No rakes or schemers here). The dialogue between the hero and heroine reminds me a little of Darcy and Elizabeth in "Pride and Prejudice". The heroine, Ancilla, is a very intelligent, competent, nice woman- one you really can root for. Her counterpart Waldo is everything you would want him to be. I once read that Georgette Heyer actually didn't like this book. I'm not sure if that is true, but if it is I can't understand why. Perhaps some people prefer a more stormy heroine like Sophy in Heyer's "The Grand Sophy", but that kind of obnoxiously outgoing character gets old. And the scene where Sophy is nursing her young relative in the presence of the hero and it dawns on him that he is in love with her is so cheesy. The Nonesuch has no chessy, contrived scenes because the attraction is totally natural and believable.
By the way, this is a great book for younger readers as well. It isn't very heavy and totally clean. Perfect for a mother-daughter read!

I love anything Georgette Heyer writes. I consider her a not-so-modern equal of Jane Austen; at least, thankfully, more prolific. I’ve read all of her books twice or more. This is definitely a favorite.

This is my very favorite Georgette Heyer. The hero is such a gentleman and his quiet but ardent wooing of the heroine is so romantic in a way that feels very true to life. The characters are all so well drawn - as she always does, Ms. Heyer's secondary characters are well drawn and delightful. Even Tiffany, who is terrible and cringeworthy, is still developed enough that she doesn't seem like a caricature. I highly recommend.

Sir Waldo Hawkridge, wealthy famous sportsman and humanitarian, inherits an estate in a village in Yorkshire. When he travels there in the company of his favorite young cousin, Lord Lindeth, he will meet Ancilla Trent, well born but impoverished paid companion to a spoilt wealthy beauty named Tiffany Wield.

Tiffany expects the world (and everyone else's life) to revolve around her. This will lead to all sorts of complications when any eligible males near her pay any sort of attention to other girls/women.

This book is charming - you cannot help but love the characters (other than Tiffany, of course, and she is clearly meant to be obnoxious and ridiculous) and cannot help but hope that somehow everything will work out so that the right couples manage to come together to find happiness.

Nicely drawn characters, each with their own agenda, move through the Regency English countryside. I'd forgotten just how wild and selfish was the beautiful Miss Tiffany, the spice of this story. Whether for the first time or the 10th time, this book is fun to read.

This novel is different from Georgette Heyer's other work in two ways. First it is set in a small country town instead of London or Bath. Second, the hero and heroine are both ordinary people and not Lord or Duke. The hero (Sir Waldo Hawkridge) is uncomparable to any other man and hence, Nonesuch, and the heroine, Ancilla Trent is not just a governess but a 'most superior' governess.
The dialogues are witty and funny, let it be between Sir Waldo and his cousin Laurence Calver, or between the hero and the heroine or ladies gossip and advices.
The good thing about the whole book is that nowhere you feel that the hero/heroine dominate. There are many interesting characters like the beautiful Tiffany Wield (Ancilla's spoilt ward), Lord Lindeth (Sir Waldo's unofficial ward??), Laurence Calver and the ladies and young girls of the town, and every character has its own fair share of the book.
Interesting parts of the stories are when Mr. Calver 'tries' to gain pity of his cousin, first by words and later by 'deeds', or Tiffany's rants and how Ancilla and Nonesuch join hands to deal with her and so on.
This simply written book makes a delightful reading.

THE NONESUCH by Georgette Heyer follows the style of Jane Austin in its delightful study of characters, setting and manners of the 19th century. The gushing and fireworks begin when Sir Waldo Hawridge inherits a run down estate he doesn't want. Sir Waldo is force to attend to his county property far from the drawing rooms of London.
Ancilla Trent is a "superior" governess for a young charge who would make Sir Waldo a suitable wife if she wasn't spoiled and careless. Miss Trent doesn't not suspected that Sir Waldo finds her more appealing than her change.
A fine Regency romance.
Nash Black, author of SINS OF THE FATHERS and HAINTS.

I'm currently going through a phase of reading Georgette Heyer novels (great fun) and of the fifteen or so that I've read to date, this is definitely my favourite.

Once again, Heyer provides a quiet heroine who wins the hero through her intelligence and manner, rather than astonishing beauty. In this book, the Astonishing Beauty gets her come-uppance.

Waldo Hawkridge is perhaps rather less flawed than most human beings, but the gentle romance between him and Ancilla Trent is lovely to read.

The usual cast of amusing characters, great language and amusing escapades makes this book well worth reading. I heartily recommend it.

STORY BRIEF:
Nonesuch is defined as a model of excellence or perfection. Sir Waldo is called the Nonesuch because of his sporting accomplishments and skill with horses. He is wealthy. He establishes and supports orphanages that care for, educate, and provide children with skills. He recently inherited Broom Hall, a rundown estate near the town of Oversett. Waldo stays there to oversee repairs and improvements. He plans to turn it into an orphanage. His cousin Julian accompanies him. While there, Waldo and Julian meet and interact with a number of people who live in Oversett.

Ancilla had a season but didn't fall in love. Her family is low on money so she gets a job as a teacher in a girls' school. Tiffany attended this school and was so bad she got kicked out. Tiffany was sent to live with her aunt Mrs. Underhill in Oversett. Since Ancilla was the only person Tiffany would listen to, Mrs. Underhill hires Ancilla to be Tiffany's governess/companion. Tiffany's parents died leaving her wealthy. She is vain, selfish, narcissistic, irritating, obnoxious, spoiled, and extremely beautiful. She throws tantrums when she doesn't get her way. She expects all men to fall in love with her.

REVIEWER'S OPINION:
Like other Heyer books I love the various personalities, their interactions, and their conversations. I enjoyed watching Ancilla influence Tiffany. For example, Tiffany was upset that she wasn't invited to someone's party. Ancilla told her that the party would be held in a green room that would clash with Tiffany's blue dress and why it would be better to ... Tiffany accepted this. Tiffany's behavior throughout the book was bad which was fun reading.

Julian is blinded by Tiffany's beauty. Waldo sees through Tiffany immediately. Tiffany is confused by Waldo's hot vs. cold treatment of her.

Waldo falls in love with Ancilla, but she won't have him. The author used my pet peeve of a "big misunderstanding based on miscommunication." When Waldo asked her what was wrong. I was angry that she would not tell him. This continued for much too long. For this reason I gave it 2 stars. If you don't mind the big misunderstanding and her refusal to answer questions, but you're a Heyer fan, then you should like it.

As far as romance goes, this is typical Heyer with a friendship developing through the book, and a declaration of love at the very last moment. I would have liked more story between the couple after they declared their feelings. I also wanted to know what Waldo was going to do for Laurence at the end. Laurence wanted to borrow money for a business.

The book description is somewhat misleading. It mentions "An impetuous flight" and "A Gallant rescue." This happens at the very end of the book. Most of the story is about other things happening before that.

I love the narrator Eve Matheson. I'd almost recommend this just to spend time with her. She has a lovely British accent and does all the voices well.

DATA:
Unabridged audiobook length: 10 hours 49 minutes. Narrator: Eve Matheson. Swearing language: mild. Sexual content: none. Setting: 1816-1817 England. Book Published: 1962. Genre: regency romance.

The Nonesuch is a pleasant tale about a country neighborhood enlivened by the visit of a celebrity. This is much the same territory that Jane Austen covers, only with a more modern sense of comedy. Our heroine is well-bred, sensible and clever; our hero is affable and wealthy. The supporting characters in general are well drawn, but the standout is Tiffany Wield, the headstrong and completely spoiled heiress whose conniving ploys for attention and adulation frequently drive the plot. She's not in the least likeable, but oh boy, is she memorable. I would have enjoyed this more if the obstacle to romantic bliss for our Hero and Heroine was less contrived. Still, it's a pleasant visit with country society.

Even if you can't abide romances, read The Nonesuch anyway! I have only recently discovered the Heyer novels, and The Nonesuch is definitely my favorite. Ms. Heyer has created a memorable cast of characters with depths of personality not always seen in lighter romance novels. Tiffany Wield is one of the funniest and most realistic brats I've ever read about. It's worth reading just to laugh (or cry) at her. Though heaven help anyone who would tell her so, Tiffany isn't the heroine of this story. That honor belongs to Miss Ancilla Trent, practical, "old-cattish" (as she describes herself), and not in any way a victim of circumstance. But Miss Trent's self-designation as an old maid does not fool anyone, least of all the Nonesuch himself, Sir Waldo Hawkridge. As I said before, this isn't just a romance. In fact, as in most of Ms. Heyer's novels, the plot itself and the interactions among characters are the attractions of the book. The middle-aged Mrs. Underhill is just as entertaining as the handsome Sir Waldo or Lord Lindeth. I pick up the Nonesuch whenever I'm bored. It never becomes boring. Step into this magical summer of balls and parties in this quaint English village, and you'll be glad you did.

This is one of my favourite Georgette Heyer novels. I read it first as a teenager and it went completely over my head-the people involved seemed too old and too careful. but as I grew up I appreciated the subtle nature of the attraction between the dashing but cynical Sir Waldo and the ever so proper Miss Trent. Maybe it helps to remember the English obsession with class and position (much discussed by Jane Austen) to understand the difficult position our heroine is put in and how the story is resolved. It's not your standard regency romance but I've always preferred Heyer's later more intriguing novels (Venetia, A Civil Contract, an Infamous Army) I love Tiffany's shallowness and Miss Trent's way of managing her, I love the dialogue and I just love this book!

Though I haven't read Georgette Heyer's entire oeuvre, I have read Frederica, These Old Shades, and Cotillion. The Nonesuch is my favorite, and the one I have reread with great pleasure. For fans of Jane Austen, Heyer does give off a similar feeling in her writing. I loved this book, and highly recommend it to others!

I enjoy reading books by Georgette Heyer, and this was one of her best. As usual, her heroes are less than perfect, but her her heroines are lovely. Most importantly, it was a good story that kept moving.

This along with Frederica and Cotillion is one of my favorite Georgette Heyer romances. I could really feel the hero and his heroine falling in love. In pure Heyer style, there are some hilarious antics throughout.

Heyer's books were/are monuments to her stylistic genius and ability to penetrate the dim reaches of time to bring up scenes which really communicate realistically and quite brilliantly. Am I fan? Of course!

The Nonesuch, one of the many Regency novels written by the master of that genre, Georgette Heyer, is as dull and uninspired as its title. The story centers on Sir Waldo Hawkridge (yes, she really did name her hero Waldo!!!!) who is so unparalleled in looks, fortune and conduct that he is known far and wide by his nickname of "Nonesuch." The other main character is his love interest, Miss Ancilla Trent, a genteel-but-impoverished governess/companion who is herself as much a paragon of perfection as Sir Waldo.

What makes the story so dull is that nothing much happens. It is comprised mostly of dialogue (so heavily dosed with Regency cant as to be almost indecipherable at times) and is simply the long and drawn-out story of Sir Waldo and Ancilla meeting, falling in love and finally becoming engaged. Their attraction begins early in the book, from the first moment they meet, and their union is a foregone conclusion since there are never any threats or even serious challenges to their relationship. Yes, Ancilla does suffer doubts, but they are not very strong and it is obvious to the reader that she is under a simple misunderstanding which will be nicely cleared up before the end of the book. 330 pages of a steady but uneventful attraction makes for slow and dull reading.

What makes the book even more dull is that it is totally lacking in interesting characters. Both Waldo and Ancilla are perfect paragons from the first and remain so all throughout the book. Everyone else is dull and perfect, also. Except Tiffany, of course, who though bratty and insufferable at least is a bit interesting and unpredictable, which is more than can be said for anyone else. Heyer usually inserts one or two quirky, over-the-top characters (often a parent of one of the main characters) to lend a humorous element to her story, but no such character existed in The Nonesuch. There was humor and sarcasm here, but it was very subtle, very understated, very dull.

This book reminds me of Jane Austen's novels, and fans of her works will probably enjoy this one. But I find Austen's works too boring for my taste, and so too is The Nonesuch. I'm giving it three stars only because Heyer's technical skill is so strong that I have to concede it is a well-written book even if it is a yawner.

I discovered Georgette Heyer in Junior High (that should date me) and have been a huge fan of hers ever since. This is one of her more delightful romps, combining her humorous comedy of manners with a mystery. A rollicking good read!!

Moving out of her usual London Ton settings, Georgette Heyer takes us to the Country, and the social setting is that of the upper middle classes.
This books moves quite well, and the characters are rather unique amongst the denizens of Heyer's books.
You will enjoy your sojourn with the inhabitants of the town, and this book will rapidly become a favorite.

A writing instructor suggested I read Heyer because I like mysteries and good characters. I picked up The Nonesuch and I must say that it is hard to find more immediately engaging characters that Heyer's. I don't want to give the story away at all -- but if you like good characters, so romance, and mystery - -this book wraps them all together neatly.

I've read her books before and have enjoyed them, but this one just wasn't as good. The verbage was too stilted. Some of the dialogue was funny but for the most part I got a headache from reading it and couldn't wait to finish the book.