A Night Like This

Quinn is a good writer, when it comes to narrative she is one of the few romance writers whose sentences never strike me as awkward or unnatural. This story was a bit predictable but a fun read. It also sets up the plot for her next book, characters that were more memorable than these. Definitely worth the read if you want to laugh and curl your toes!

Quinn doesn't disappoint with her latest installment of the Bridgerton spin-off Smythe-Smith Quartet Novel: A Night Like This. Romance, Humor, Likeable characters and secondary characters, and a great deal of fun. All of the books by Julia Quinn are fun and exciting, and include ties to one another that make the reader feel included. Well done!

I am a huge Julia Quinn fan and have been for years. My favorite aspect of her writing has always been her characters quick and smart sense of humor. Lately I have been somewhat disappointed in her books and am holding out hope that she will find her way back to the witty writer she once was. In the meantime, I will continue to await her newest release, buy her book and read it... hoping for a 5 star story. In a nutshell, I liked "A Night Like This"... I just didn't LOVE it, and I'm not running around recommending it to my romance reading friends. Maybe next time....

Kind of felt like they made the female lead too easy. In historical romance, you don't expect the female character to lose virginity at 16. Did not like that at all. Then she's already kissing the male lead as soon as they meet.

The characters were boring. Not sure how these two fell in love. No chemistry whatsoever. I skimmed most of the book, hoping for something....anything. Story was predictable.

Hello Julia,

I have read so many of your good historical romances, unfortunately this isn't one of them. Your hero, Daniel is superficial and not upto your usual high standards for heroes. Your heroine changed her name. Sort of a mechanical story, not page-turner of which you're capable. Heroine serves as governess of 3 kids, who are mostly annoying. So what is the glue which holds this story together?

The hero's view of heroine is telling, "She smelled like England, of soft rain & sun kissed-meadows." Huh?? Huh??

Julia, I hope you get back your writing mojo. Signed, Cheryl in Cincinnati.

Disappointing.

I love Julia Quinn, but this book was just...there. Daniel fell in love immediately. In lust immediately. He's home, he's in love. No build-up, no suspense, no indecision, nada.

Anne was almost as bland. Their banter felt forced, there was no intensity until the end, and that was introduced from an outside (and very unlikely) outer force.

I'll just look forward to the next book and hope we're done with the damn Smythe-Smiths.

The book is trite. I feel like I have read books Julia Quinn books with the same plot numerous times. I am think Julia Quinn has lost her touch - I am going to have to find another romance author to read -

I started this book giddy to read about Daniel. And I was beyond interested in knowing about Anne too.

Those poor two had so much past to wade through.

Expect: not to laugh much

Favorite part: "I'm writing it down"

I have been a huge Julia Quinn fan for a long time. (I still have paperbacks of the books before the the Bridgertons showed up.) I thought the yearly musical with the S-S relatives would be interesting, considering how many couples had attended the debacle over the many books. And the first one was entertaining, though not great. This one was not fun, interesting, or romantic. It was very difficult to finish and extremely forgettable. I am hoping the series doesn't end up reading as bad as I imagine the poor girls sounding at these events.

Disappointing.

I love Julia Quinn, but this book was just...there. Daniel fell in love immediately. In lust immediately. He's home, he's in love. No build-up, no suspense, no indecision, nada.

Anne was almost as bland. Their banter felt forced, there was no intensity until the end, and that was introduced from an outside (and very unlikely) outer force.

I'll just look forward to the next book and hope we're done with the damn Smythe-Smiths.

The book is trite. I feel like I have read books Julia Quinn books with the same plot numerous times. I am think Julia Quinn has lost her touch - I am going to have to find another romance author to read -

I started this book giddy to read about Daniel. And I was beyond interested in knowing about Anne too.

Those poor two had so much past to wade through.

Expect: not to laugh much

Favorite part: "I'm writing it down"

I have been a huge Julia Quinn fan for a long time. (I still have paperbacks of the books before the the Bridgertons showed up.) I thought the yearly musical with the S-S relatives would be interesting, considering how many couples had attended the debacle over the many books. And the first one was entertaining, though not great. This one was not fun, interesting, or romantic. It was very difficult to finish and extremely forgettable. I am hoping the series doesn't end up reading as bad as I imagine the poor girls sounding at these events.

Yes, I deleted this book from my Kindle because I was disgusted. I skipped several pages with boring dialogue--- scenes which continued on and on.

After pre-ordering and paying $6.99 for this book, it was a disappointing experience for me. I did like both characters and the plot was good. But all of that dialogue with the young girls was too much for me. It just seemed endless.

I have since read a couple $0.99 books which were so much better than this book.

And I have bought and read many of her other books, and enjoyed them, but this one was a disappointment overall.

What what what Julia Quinn? I'm not sure why I try to buy her novels. The only books I liked of hers were the early ones in the Bridgerton series. This one's sample read well and I was nostalgic about Smythe-Smith musicales...but then I couldn't even read it. And I finish 95+% of what I start. I think I only got through four chapters. Maybe it gets better but I didn't want to waste my reading time on it.

Can't even finish this one...I am moving on to another book. This book has no good features to recommend. I usually adore Julia Quinn and have read everything she has written...this book just never goes anywhere. I kept hoping it would take off, but it falls flat and I couldn't devote anymore time for it.

I pre-ordered this book because I love Julia Quinn's books. This was just so boring until the last few chapters. I will never pre-order her books again, until I read the reviews and make a conclusion. Very Disappointed!!

If you've Bridgerton-ed all you can Bridgerton but still can't quite get enough of the light and fluffy charms of Julia Quinn novels, then you'll probably be quite grateful for the existence of the seemingly-endless number of cousins in the Smythe-Smith clan, which allow the author to carry on her tradition of quippy romances and terrible musicales.

In this second entry into her new series - which, somehow, is the last to draw its name from a Cure song, despite the obvious appeal of titling a romance novel Hot Hot Hot!!! - we meet that rarest of creatures, a male Smythe-Smith. Specifically Daniel, Earl of Winstead, who once made the mistake of fighting a duel over the outcome of a drunken card game and wound up fleeing to the Continent for three years. Upon his return, he immediately falls in love with his cousins' governess, as I suppose one does if one has never read The Turn of the Screw. Governess Anne Wynter, however, has secrets, some of which are quite dangerous, and a history that's left her permanently looking over her shoulder.

Given that this is Quinn, there's never much of an actual threat-level to the novel's suspense. Mostly it's just the charming flirtation of two genial people, interspersed with hysterical amateur theatricals. While I personally prefer a bit more broody in my heroes, I give full and complete props to Daniel for being the walking poster child for Men Who Took Consent 101, and to Quinn for not burdening her heroine with questionable squicky guilt baggage over her own past. A Night Like This is a delightful way to spend a few hours, though it's never going to make its way onto my Best of Quinn list.

I have always loved historical romance novels, but in recent years, I haven’t had as much time for them. Julia Quinn was always my favorite author, and I’ve been catching up on some of the books that I missed. I had listened to the Audible version of Just Like Heaven, which is the first book in Quinn’s Smythe-Smith quartet. After that, I started listening to When He Was Wicked, which is part of her Bridgerton series… but I had to find out what happened next in the Smythe-Smith series. I had a paperback copy of A Night Like This, and I found myself unable to resist bumping it to the top of my reading queue.

A Night Like This begins during the events at the end of Just Like Heaven. Daniel Smythe-Smith, the Earl of Winstead, has returned to England after a few years abroad. It’s a long story, but the prologue covers the reason for his departure. But now he’s back, and the one of the first things he notices is that there is a strange woman participating in his family’s annual musicale. She isn’t one of his cousins, and he is intrigued by her identity.

Anne Wynter has a big secret. She is trying to move on from a scandalous past, and enjoys her position as governess for the Pleinsworth family. She is attracted to the handsome young earl, but knows that involving herself with him will only lead to scandal- which is exactly what she is trying to avoid.

Daniel is not a stranger to scandal, and as they grow closer together, they discover that there are forces at play that may reveal the past that they are both working so hard to move beyond.

This is a very funny book. Julia Quinn’s books are always witty, but this one was especially funny, mostly because of Anne’s three young charges. They are a lively trio, and their antics include playwriting and unicorns. There is also plenty of angst: Daniel tries relentlessly to capture Anne’s attention, and she is somewhat horrified to discover that she enjoys spending time with him. There are even some tense moments- elements of a thriller- when Daniel and his friends must stage a daring rescue.

I would absolutely recommend A Night Like This. I read this book quickly, and didn’t want to put it down. This is the second book in the series, but it functions well as a standalone. Quinn does a nice job of setting up The Sum of All Kisses- the third book in the series, which I am looking forward to reading next. It should be noted that this book is intended for mature readers.

There was a decent story in here but it got buried beneath boring irrelevant stuff. The beginning and the end were interesting, everything in between was just annoying fluff.

Our hero and heroine are Daniel and Anne. They both have tragic pasts that we learn in the prologue and first few chapters. Daniel had a drunken duel with another drunk aristocrat named Hugh, and accidentally maimed the man for life. Hugh's father is outraged and vows to kill Daniel for what he's done. Daniel turns tail and runs for the next three years until Hugh comes to get him and tell him he can come home, promising that a leash has been put on the father's murderous intentions.

Anne was a beautiful but naive 16 year old girl who made the mistake of believing the local rich boy was in love with and would marry her. So she gave him her virginity only to have her world shattered when he reveals that he's engaged to someone else and was merely playing with her. After this heartless declaration he still expects Anne to sleep with him a second time and tries to rape her when she refuses. She grabs a letter opener to defend herself and accidentally cuts him on the face leaving a permanent scar. The whole sordid tale comes out and Anne is thrown out of the house by her father, but not before her former lover vows to track her to the ends of the earth and make her pay. She spends the next 8 years in service, first as a companion and then a governess, and fighting off the lecherous advances of various men. She's scared and lonely and lives in constant fear that her insane ex-lover will find her.

Those are both fairly interesting back stories and I was looking forward to reading the rest of the book at this point. Unfortunately everything until the last few chapters was filler that crawled along at a snail's pace. First, entirely too much time was spent listening to the various girl children having inane conversations about stuff that didn't matter. I gather from the book that it's one in a series and the Smythe-Smith clan and all it's female relatives and their terrible musical ability are recurring themes. And judging from some of the reviews they're a beloved bunch, but speaking as a newcomer to the series I found all of Daniel's family to be annoying and unnecessary.

Almost the entire book is spent with the children arguing or obliviously playing awful music or putting on terrible plays. Only the smallest fraction of the story is spent on developing Anne and Daniel's relationship, and what little is done is very, very slow-moving. Then at the end, Anne's insane ex-lover kidnaps the youngest of the children and Anne allows herself to be kidnapped too in order to protect the girl, even though she knows she's likely walking into rape and certain death. She also, at great personal risk, helps the girl escape and then takes a beating from her kidnapper for doing it. But when the girl makes it back home and a frantic Daniel tries to question her so he can hopefully save Anne the girl's mother, Daniel's aunt, pitches a hissy fit and tries to prevent the girl from giving any information! This is the beloved governess who faithfully served their family for years and just put her life and virtue in danger to save the girl. She's also Daniel's lady love and he's declared his intention to marry her so she's soon to be this woman's niece by marriage. Yet the aunt is completely ready to condemn Anne to rape and death because it just might upset the girl's "delicate sensibilities" to have to answer a few questions. Wow, thanks mom. The woman's fits and declarations only serve to delay the planned rescue and made her seem heartless, snobby and self-centered. Quite frankly, I'd just as soon give the entire family a boot out the door.

Other than that, the roadblocks set up in the love story kind of got resolved without anything happening. The whole book Anne tries to resist Daniel's advances because she knows they can never be together. Earls do not marry governesses. Daniel's aunt even reiterates this point to him and stresses that if he sleeps with Anne, she'll be ruined for life and never be able to work again. Then at the end Daniel just says that he's going to marry Anne anyway and everyone is totally fine with it. Nothing about their situation changed, the roadblock was just hand-waved away after being harped on the whole book.

All in all, it was a mediocre book that could have been much better considering the exciting back story and conclusion. Daniel was just so-so as the hero. He came across as kind of a wimp when he ran from the country after the duel and spent the next three years cowering in fear. And then he seemed like a jerk when he came back home and then after two close-calls with death, went storming over to Hugh's house all pompous and threatening. Hugh had a severely crippled leg and lived in constant agony because of what Daniel did, and yet had gone to great lengths to guarantee Daniel's safety and then track him down in his hidey-hole in Italy to tell him to come home. Daniel didn't seem all that grateful and kind of like a jerk for continuing to harass the poor crippled guy he shot instead of, I don't know, being a man and handling his own problems?

Anne was decent as the heroine though. She had a solid character arc and by the end she was a strong and confident woman.

The second entry into the Smythe-Smith Quartet is a wonderfully romantic story featuring the one male Smythe-Smith, Daniel, and a governess who might not be who she says she is.

Daniel Smythe-Smith has been in Italy for three years following a duel that went horribly wrong. Finally he is told it is safe for him to return to England and he happily does so. His return coincides with the annual Smythe-Smith musical and after being away for so long Daniel is even happy to hear the "music" performed by his sister and cousins. However, he is surprised to see an unknown face at the piano and as soon as their eyes meet something magical happens. He feels something for the stranger that he has never felt before.

Anne Wynter hates being part of the musical evening, but as governess to the Smythe-Smith cousins she really had no choice when the eldest cousin came down with an illness. Although she doesn't really believe the girl is sick, Anne takes her place at the piano. All is going as well as it could be when she feels someone watching her. After the music ends she is surprised to find herself face to face with the most handsome man she has ever seen. She is pulled to him by some invisible cord and knows that after meeting Daniel nothing will ever be exactly the same - no matter how much she hopes it will.

I loved both Daniel and Anne. They are both strong characters who know what they want and how to get it. Even though they have both had bad things happen in the past, they haven't let those things overshadow who they really are deep down.

I adored the banter between the two. There is a scene where Daniel, Anne, and his cousins are putting on a play written by one of the girls. They joke back and forth with comments that at times go over the children's heads and at times include them in the joke. The dialogue is witty and entertaining.

There are two words I would use to describe A Night Like This - Fun and Romantic. The characters have fun, the reader is entertained through the whole story, and the romance between Daniel and Anne is beautifully written. From the very beginning there is something special about them together.

The question of who is in danger - Daniel or Anne - drives the plot and keeps the reader guessing for about half the book. It isn't a huge mystery once the reader learns more about Anne's past, but enough action to drive the story and to keep the "how" of their happily ever after in question till the end.

I can't wait to read the next entry into this quartet. A Night Like This will definitely have a place on my keeper shelf!

Reviewed by Carrie

This review was originally posted on The Season site (theseasonforromance dot com)

It has been entirely too long since I read a historical romance, and A Night Like This was a wonderful reunion with the genre. Not only is it by one of my favorite authors Julia Quinn, but it also features an adorable and surprisingly refreshing tale of romance, deception and family. While I wouldn't necessarily count it among my favorites, it was entertaining, lovely and just what I needed when I read it.

I loved the fact that Anne was a governess. It added an extra charm to her character, especially seeing how she acted around the children she was in charge of. She was patient, kind and understanding. While she allowed for creativity and lots of fun, she was also firm about getting the children raised in the right manner. She managed to become a part of the family, and it was clear that there was something truly lovable about her and about her willingness to give of herself to these kids.

Daniel, on the other hand, is more of a beta hero than an alpha one. He's really, truly a good guy, in spite of what transpires early on in the book. In his pursuit of Anne, he's determined and slightly sly and very sweet. He's also very dedicated to his family, which I loved about him! I do feel like I didn't get to really know much about him, apart from his history (which revolves around the "mortal danger" indicated in the summary) and his feelings for Anne and his family.

Their romance is quiet and sweet, although it definitely has a very potentially scandalous start indeed. I can appreciate the fact that, even though their feelings and the moments they shared were certainly lovely, there were also real difficulties that they each had to overcome in order for them to be able to be together. I like the fact that the difficulties were not just one-sided, as it's true that in most relationships, both people bring their history to the table.

Even though I'm sure everyone reading this review can predict how it all turns out, I still enjoyed reading A Night Like This. Apart from being really easy to read, it was fun to revisit the Smythe-Smiths and to find out more about them. Julia Quinn definitely has a talent for writing these series revolving around a particular family, and I can't wait for the next book! If you're looking for a sweet little romance novel to pass the time with, I'd recommend this one (or any of Julia's books, really).

Julia Quinn's latest novel A Night Like This has a wining pair of protagonists both keeping secrets and both with sensitive spirits.

This tale starts out in a rather rousing manner, Daniel Smythe-Smith, a newly minted Earl is accused of cheating and since Daniel is well into his cups he accepts a challenge to a duel from his inebriated companion. Daniel accidentally shoots his opponent and finds himself exiled for years. His opponent's father is determined to kill him for maiming his son. He has been away for three years before he can return to England.

Anne Wynter is a governess and she is a gentle woman who likes her charges. She meets Daniel on his first day back to England, when she is playing in an awful quartet with Daniel's cousins. She admires Daniel from the beginning; he is dashing, protective of his sisters and a gentleman. Daniel finds her beautiful and witty. They are both correct in their assessment of each other.

Anne has kept her past a secret and for good reasons. She has cultivitated a new persona and she works hard at being a good governess to Daniel's cousins. She realizes the differences in their stations but Daniel is rather persistent and he finds ways of "calling" upon Anne albeit his cousins are inevitably their chaperones.

Miss Quinn has done an excellent job of showing the reader how this couple falls in love. The leads have interesting conversations usually about present day situations and rarely about their pasts yet their feelings are sincere. Daniel is patient and he is also thoughtful for the most part, he does not take advantage of his title to harass or coerce Anne into a situation that she does not want. Both leads are insightful. Anne has been hurt by others and she smartly does not lump all men or aristocrats together. She is intuitive enough to recognize Daniel is a special man, noble and honest.

There are many sweet moments in this book and surprisingly they are not just with the leads. Daniel's cousins are precocious and they also have sunny funny dispositions. They are a tidal wave of femininity, many times they exhaust Daniel but the reader sees his supreme affection for them.

I am giving this novel four and a half stars. There were a few times the action slowed a little too much and Anne sometimes is a little too rash. However this story is memorable mostly because the characters are genuinely kind to each other, not embittered about their past, and their love story has a real touch of sweetness.

-- A Romantic Book Affairs Quickie Review

Another cute and funny romance from Miz Quinn. The Smythe-Smith's are an eccentric lot and it makes for really funny dialogue that kept me smiling. Miss Wynter's charges, and Daniel's cousins, Frances, Harriet, and Elizabeth, were scene stealers. I mean, who can resist a little girl who pretends she's a unicorn? Simply adorable.

And Daniel might be the most perfect gentleman in an HR that I have ever read. He cares so much for all the ladies in his life and is completely respectful of them. And it didn't come off as facetious or fake, as he is an only son in an extended family of nearly all females. He is a hero worth falling for.

This is the first book by Miz Quinn, that I've read, where there is actually a truly villainous villain. It added a bit of darkness to an otherwise light story, and gave great depth to Anne and her personal plight.

I love me some JQ and, while this won't make my Top 5 Favorite Julia Quinn books - it was still a great summer read.

Favorite Quote:
"I wish to kiss you. That is what I wanted you to know. Because if I'm not going to do it, and it appears that I am not, because it isn't what you want, at least not right now...but if I'm not going to do it, you need to know that I wanted." He paused, staring at her mouth, at her lips, full and trembling. "I still want it."

5 out of 5 stars! This is hilariously energetic novel keeps you on your toes while encouraging you to fall in love with its compelling cast of characters! I loved Daniel & Anne! Their story was one I did not completely expect yet it kept me riveted the whole way through. If only there was more! =0)

And the secondary characters! Good god! They made this novel full of twists I never saw coming, and so very fun to read!

About the Characters:
* Anne: Because of an accident--that happened eight years ago--when she was 16-years-old she has been "on the run" in a way ever since. Currently works as The Pleinsworths' (Harriet, Elizabeth, & Frances) governess. Likes her job and employers. Is immediately drawn to Daniel, has to fight with herself to stay within certain propriety.

* Daniel: He's the Earl of Winstead. Had a duel with one of his close friends when they were both drunk and being dumb. Accidentally wounded his friend in the leg during the duel, and because of that he was on fled from England and stayed away for three years after his friend's father announced that he wanted him dead. Once he is allowed back home, he meets Anne and is instantly attracted to her wanting to find out everything about her. Forced to perform in an unusual play and go back to "school" just so he can hang out with and get to know Anne better. Is very sweet, charming, and chivalrous when he goes about his own way of courting Anne.

* Marcus: He's the Earl of Chatteris. Engaged to Lady Honoria. Daniel's best friend.

* Honoria: Daniel's younger sister. Engaged to Marcus.

* Hugh: The second son of the Marquess of Ramsgate. A close friend of Daniel's. Is the one who wanted to duel with Daniel when he believe Daniel was cheating at cards, and ended up with a bad leg because of it. Told Daniel that he could come back to England after getting his father to call off his father's death wish.

* Harriet: Is fifteen-years-old. Believes herself to be an amazing play write, but usually comes up with more unusual dramatic pieces of work then anything.

* Frances: Youngest of the Pleinsworths siblings at ten-years-old. Likes unicorns and likes to pretend she is one.

There are more characters of course but those ones stand out the most for me. =0)

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes humorously dramatic historical romances!

Review By: From Me to You ... Book Reviews
(read more of this review and two teasers on my blog)

I was very sorely disappointed by Julia Quinn's previous book Just Like Heaven, and I started to think perhaps Quinn has finally lost her magic touch. That perhaps she is now going through what every other historical romance writer has gone through before her - in that they suddenly lose their sense of humour, they get lazy, the writing sounds rushed, the characters are trite and so on.

I bought this book very reluctantly, only because I had already started the series and want to know how it ends, but also because I really do love Julia Quinn, and the loyal fan in me cannot pass by a book of hers and not buy it. But I did leave it lying around for ages as I went on to read other books, with the hopes of avoiding another disappointment and having my doubts confirmed. A part of me also thought that I have just outgrown historical romances, as it has become a sort of pattern with all other authours I usually read for that I skim through many parts of their books, and I am not impressed by their plots any longer (such as Nicole Jordan, Johanna Lindsey, Gaelen Foley, Mary Balogh etc.).

However, Quinn came through and saved the day. No, this is not the best book she's written, probably does not go on her top 10 books either, but it was such a fun, lighthearted book!

I really enjoyed reading it, and I loved the characters. I admit I wasn't a fan of either Honoria or Marcus in the previous book, and cannot even remember how their story went. But Daniel and Anne, they were such great characters, with such intriguing backgrounds. She kept you interested the whole way through, as I was engrossed in Anne's story and wanted to know how it was going to end. I was more so intrigued by all the accidents and wanted so much to know whether they were Daniel's enemies or Anne's enemies that were behind them. And the humour! Oh, the humour is finally back, as I found myself chuckling at the interactions between the cousins and sisters and Daniel. The characters were a lot more fascinating also. One of the characters that tugged at my heartstrings was Hugh, and I really hope he gets his own book in this series, I could totally see him star in his own installment with perhaps Sarah.

Julia, thank you for bringing me back to historical romances. I really thought I was done with them, and was very ready to give up reading them, but you proved me wrong. Not her best book, but we're getting there.

::sighs contentedly::
Wow. Can I just say that I have sorely missed Julia Quinn’s writing since her last novel? Seriously, starting one of her novels gives me that great feeling you get after you return home from a long journey. No one can write romance like Julia Quinn. She gives her novels the perfect combination of wit, humor, and heart that always has me running to the nearest store the day her new novels are released. I think this is the first review I’ve ever written for a JQ book and that is a crying shame. It makes me want to lock myself in my room and reread all of her novels just to review them….
But since I don’t have time for that, I’ll settle for writing this one. First a little background. I am probably a little biased to JQ’s because I’ve been reading them since my early teens. I had just started reading romance novels, not being particularly choosey over them, simply reading anything romance I could get my hands on, contemporary, historical, paranormal, harlequins, westerns, whatever there was available. I came across the novel Romancing Mister Bridgerton by this amazing lady at a flea market one day and gladly handed over my dollar without paying much attention to what the novel was about. That’s bad, yes, but hey, I was fourteen and it had “romancing” in the title, so I figured it would be a love story and that was as far as my thought process really went. I eagerly started the novel and fell in love. Not just with JQ’s writing, but with historical romance novels in general. I spent my entire high school career stealing any time I could to sneak away and hide in a historical romance. These days, I seem to have fallen into a world of YA, but I still strive to make time to read historical romance novels because there are some qualities you just don’t find anywhere else. For me, it’s like reading a book set in your hometown, even though I have never been to London, I’ve read countless novels about it and I know this world as well as I know my own. …Okay, enough of my sentimental drivel.
Daniel Smythe-Smith has just returned from his exile. After a night of drinking, Hugh, a friend of his challenges him to a game of cards which he wins at impossible odds. Hugh accuses him of cheating and a challenge to a duel is swiftly issued. Daniel accidentally shoots Hugh in the leg, almost killing him. The shot maims Hugh for life which angers his father who swears he will murder Daniel. Now, three years later, Hugh has convinced his father to let Daniel be and Daniel happily returns home just in time to catch the end of the annual Smythe-Smith musical. But it isn’t one of his many cousins who is sitting behind the piano. Completely snared by this mystery woman’s beauty, he finds that he must learn more about her.
Anne Wynter is just a governess trying to maintain the position she has found with this wonderful family and kept her past in the past. But when Daniel barges into her life and refuses to leave, she knows this will end badly. Even though he is a kind-hearted man, no respectable family will keep her as a governess if she is known to take liberties with members of the family. So she does everything she can to avoid him. But she can’t hide from him or her past for much longer.
Whether you are already a JQ fan or just a historical romance novel junkie, this one is a must. Daniel is probably one of my favorite heroes, confident without being cocky, sweet, and kind. Watching Anne fight her attraction because she is sure nothing can happen kept me up until 2 in the morning trying to finish it. It’s got just the right amount of humor, heart, and smut that you just can’t go wrong.

Julia Quinn is a writer for women who don't normally read Regency romances AND for women who DO read Regency romances but prefer a delightful read with a likeable hero and heroine rather than a dark, brooding Heathcliff and callous, self-serving Scarlett.

In A NIGHT LIKE THIS, Daniel, the young Earl of Winstead, and Anne Wynter (alias), governess to the musically untalented Smythe-Smith sisters, should NOT be falling in love.

First, they are of different social classes - which is of greater concern to Anne and to Daniel's aristocratic mother than to Daniel himself.

Second, Daniel once accidentally caused physical injury to a friend, and is being pursued by a dangerous, revengeful father- who could harm not only Daniel, but also his loved ones.

Third, Anne is also being pursued - by a furious attempted seducer whom she accidentally scarred for life while defending herself. But this is a secret she must not reveal, because of the scandal associated with it that could ruin her life.

These are seemingly impossible obstacles. But the attraction between Daniel and Anne is sizzling, and their playful flirtatious banter exhilarating. Plus each recognizes in the other a genuine warm-heartedness and basic goodness of character which could lead to a very happy marriage.

But that, of course, is impossible.

Or is it?

Read the book and find out!

Yes, the plot element of the mad, revenge-bent pursuers is contrived and over-the-top, but the reader may not care because the interaction between the characters (including the young girls) is so entertaining.

Consider, for example, a snippet from a chapter in which Daniel and Anne "trap" each other into agreeing to act in young Harriet's ludicrous play "The Strange Sad Tragedy of Lord Finstead." Daniel has just cornered Anne into taking part:

"Well done, Miss Wynter. We all must occasionally venture outside our areas of comfort. I'm so proud of you."
The look she gave him clearly said, "I WILL EVISCERATE YOU, YOU POMPOUS WRETCH." But of course she could never utter such a thing in front of the children....
"Miss Wynter, I think you should be the evil queen," Harriet said.
"There's an evil queen?" Daniel echoed, with obvious delight.
[Later, as the girls leave, and Daniel is alone with Harriet]
"I wonder," he said aloud, "do we get to be wicked?"

Yes, indeed, Quinn does give us a few passionate scenes, not in any graphic detail, but with enough detail and suggestiveness to appeal to any typical - or atypical - romance reader. Need I say more?

How, I wonder, could anyone NOT enjoy Daniel and Anne?

A NIGHT LIKE THIS is a light read that will keep you smiling while reading it.......and for a long time afterwards.

After spending three years abroad due to the repercussions of a youthful mistake, Daniel Smythe-Smith is finally able to return home to England. Having arrived at his home the night of his family's famous - or is it infamous? - musicale, Daniel decides to watch from the wings...and spies a lady at the piano who is most definitely not one of his cousins. Anne Wynter, governess to three of Daniel's cousins, has been called in at the last minute to play in the annual musicale. The attraction Daniel feels for her is instantaneous, and Daniel knows he must learn more about the beautiful Anne.

Daniel Smythe-Smith, Earl of Winstead, may not be like the other men Anne has come into contact with, but that doesn't mean she's going to risk losing her livelihood for a moment of passion. She's learned her lesson well, thank you very much. As Anne tries to avoid Daniel, she learns one thing: the Smythe-Smiths are a very persistent lot. How long will Anne be able to hold out against the man she's slowly falling in love with? She may not get a chance to find out. The ghosts of her past have reemerged, threatening Anne, Daniel, and those they hold dear.

The Smythe-Smiths are back in the enchanting A Night Like This. Julia Quinn's prose shines in this tale of love, attraction, secrets and, of course, terrible musicales.

Daniel and Anne are two people whose pasts have taken them somewhat off the proverbial path they were born to follow. Though my heart broke for what each has been through, I dare say they are the stronger and wiser for having come out the other end. Both Daniel and Anne are incredibly likeable protagonists and it's easy to become captivated by A Night Like This for the romance alone. But then, what would a Smythe-Smith novel be without the Smythe-Smith family? The entire extended Smythe-Smith clan delights in A Night Like This, bringing even more humor, vibrancy, and warmth to the novel. I loved watching Daniel and Anne interact with his family almost as much as I adored watching the pair fall for one another.

A healthy dose of danger adds a darker undertone to A Night Like This, making it a well-rounded story. I practically devoured A Night Like This and I'm sure fans of historical romance will be as captivated as I was by Daniel and Anne's book. I finished A Night Like This a well-satisfied reader and I cannot wait for the next Smythe-Smith book!

Reviewed by Shayna
For Joyfully Reviewed

This was my first Julia Quinn book. I found it delightful and fantastic and I can't wait for a chance to jump into her backlist to catch up on all that I have been missing.

The heroine of our story is Anne. She was born a gentlewoman, but a horrible event in her past cast her out from her family. Now she makes her way as a governess. It's been years since she's even entertained the idea of love. After all, her romantic notions are what got her into trouble in the first place. But from the moment she catches Daniel's eye across a crowded room, her fate is sealed.

A relationship between Daniel and Anne is wholly inappropriate. He is an earl and she is governess to his young cousins. But he, too, has been cut off from his family. A bungled duel put him under a death threat that forced him from the country for years. He has only just returned to the fold. And Anne has made his homecoming even sweeter.

Anne knows they can never have a real future, so she fights her feelings. But Daniel is relentless in his pursuit. He is so charming and determined to win her. The evolution of their relationship is sweet and believable. And when someone starts making attempts on their lives, it ups the stakes. Is it someone from Daniel's past or is Anne's old life coming back to haunt her?

The pacing is so good, the book felt like it just flew by. It had a steady rhythm of romance and action and light-hearted fun. The love story sets the main stage, but the book is made richer with a developed cast of secondary characters, from the trio of girls Anne cares for, to Hugh --the man Daniel shot all those years ago. I was engaged from the first page to the last.

It wasn't even until I was finished that I realized this is the second book in the Smith-Smyth Quartet series. This works completely as a standalone --though I am happy to know there are more books to come.

If you want a sweeter and less challenging but still mostly enjoyable story: A Night Like This by Julia Quinn will fit that bill. When newly minted earl, Daniel is well into a long night of drinking and poker and accused of cheating, the argument fast gets out of hand. A penchant for remembering the deck, and the ability to recite the cards played was not enough to avoid the challenge to a duel. Unfortunately, Daniel shot his opponent, and needed to flee England until the furor died down.

Anne is the governess to Daniel's cousins, with secrets of her own. From this point forward, the story is a cat and mouse game of attractions and secrets, with plenty (perhaps too much) perseveration from both Anne and Daniel. Daniel is tongue tied and sweetly gawping each time he encounters Anne. While this was sweet to believe he was so enamored of the governess; his hesitations never were clearly explained. Anne, meanwhile has carefully cultivated this refined and cultured persona, hiding secrets within.

Slowly but surely the two manage to relax and become more comfortable with one another: wide ranging discussions of events of the day, and current likes do lay a solid foundation for their relationship to grow beyond that instant attraction phase. A few twists on a Cinderella story, with a quietly insistent but never overbearing Daniel carefully cultivating Anne. And her ability to see beneath the title and the obvious inequity in their social standing, even as she repeatedly bemoans the fact that she is the "governess' do tie the attitudes of society at the time to the story, even as the characters are flouting convention.

A few pacing hiccups and some too-oft repeated lamentations from both Daniel and Anne did detract from the flow of the story, and while there are several moments of sugary sweet scenes, the story will leave you smiling at the end.

I received a paperback copy from the publisher for purpose of honest review for the Jeep Diva. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

This book had me at "with a ten-year-old who thinks she's a unicorn." Yes, I went into it for the imaginary unicorn but I got a WHOLE lot more than that. Whole lot.

For example, I got an Earl who doesn't give a fig for what most of society thinks. I got a governess with secrets. Dangerous, dangerous secrets. I got a perfectly wretched musicale that managed to bring these two together. Frankly, as awful as the Smythe-Smiths play, their annual program ends up being a blast. I love how it's the cornerstone of the family.

I'm going to pause for a moment to mention how much I like Hugh Prentice. Clearly he's dealing with things and I wonder how his story will play out in book 3. I also liked seeing Marcus and Honoria again. Because those two are adorable. Absolutely adorable.

Okay, back to the main characters. Anne's situation is painful. What her family did to her is awful and the fact she did everything she was supposed to and she's still being punished gave me a case of the angry eyes. Daniel is in a bit of the same situation. He never meant to hurt Hugh and he's paid dearly for his mistake. But then, one could argue, Hugh's paid for it even more. But that's not the point.

Because of their situations, both Anne and Daniel know what it's like to be forced away from their families. And Daniel's single-mindedness in pursuing Anne was kinda awesome.

You know what? I like these Smythe-Smiths. They're fun.

-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal

Right off the bat, Julia Quinn is signaling to all of her fans and new readers alike: here's the story to make you laugh out loud and take your worries away for a bit!

Daniel Smythe-Smith, Earl of Winstead, is finally home from abroad and all that have known him are in for a surprise, as he is a much changed man, yet he still has his wonderful sense of humor which the heroine brings up in him through their many, many encounters and through Ms. Quinn's talent in writing the witty and entertaining dialogue.

Anne Wynter is a governess to Daniel's cousins, and it only takes one look for him to fall in love with her, but a lady is not convinced it is a proper thing for either of them. She has a past that is about to catch up to her and is sure once it does, her life will never be what she yearns for it to be.

`A Night Like This' will be one of those books that you'll remember for a while, but then most of Julia Quinn's stories tend to burrow deep into my heart and this one's no exception. This story has everything you'll ever want in a lighthearted romance and then some.

If you've read any of Ms. Quinn's books and are a fan, I think you'll like this second addition to Smythe-Smith `mini saga' which is as much charming and fun as the first one. If however you've never read any of her books, you may as well start with this one as the author knows her craft well and made sure to make it stand all on its own.

Melanie for b2b

*Complimentary copy from Edelweiss*

Life is all about moments. There are moments that define who we are and those that define who we love. A Night Like This is full of such moments.

Anne has made her mistakes, and they've cost her, but she is determined to make a life for herself. When Daniel saunters into her world, she fights the growing attraction. The last thing she needs is to fall for his charms.

Daniel has been on the run from his own mistakes, but now he's come home. Ready to reclaim life, he isn't expecting to fall in love. But temptation calls and he answers.

Soon both find themselves in danger and an intriguing game of cat and mouse, actually several cats, ensues. But unlike most romance books, Anne is no damsel in distress. Daniel is quite capable of being the knight in shining armor, but Anne is strong enough not to wait around whimpering.

"You cannot win against me," he snarled.

"I shall try," Anne said softly. Because she was not giving up without a fight. And if he managed to destroy her, then God as her witness, she was taking him down, too.

The last half of the book speeds by, every page turn offering a new and exciting development. But I did wish for more pages of pure romance and passion, especially since there was no lack of sparks between Anne and Daniel. The best dialogue in the book was the sexual tension filled and witty banter between the two.

If you are looking for a great summer read, pick up a copy of A Night Like This. The story and characters will sweep you away. There's a little bit of everything: humor, action, romance, interesting characters, duels, sexiness, sharp dialogue, and much more.

Note: I received a complimentary copy for review purposes. A positive review was not requested or guaranteed; the opinions expressed are my own.

It is official! I am a huge regency romance fan!! I should have realized that after I read Pride and Prejudice a dozen times. This book is a great romance with hot men and beautiful women who have issues and cannot allow themselves to fall for the hot man. Rescues, stolen kisses, death threats and a bit of sex, everything that makes a romance a romance.

I am a sucker for a man that falls for a women and then does everything in his power to make her his. Yes this is one of those romances and I have to say that it is a good one. I did not expect an intellectual story, or to learn something new. I knew that this book would be a romance and it is a great one of those. The description of the houses, clothes, dishes, expectations of the day...all of these were clear and I enjoyed this book.

I will be reading this author again and putting her name on my top regency romance author lists. A wonderful look at the regency era and the rules that governed those of nobility and gentry. If you enjoy this type of romance you will love this one....give it a try it reads really fast.

I used to love Julia Quinn's books, but the last few releases were so hard to get through that I never finished them. However, since I have fond memories of the Bridgertons (or at least the fist few books in the series) I decided to give this newest release a try and have rediscovered my love for Quinn.

I am glad to say that Quinn has written a book where the hero and the heroine are not afraid to talk to each other about their problems and feelings. Granted the time period is historical England of the stiff upper lip, but I can't be the only one that finds it frustrating when the hero and heroine spend the entirety of the book at cross purposes simply because one of them decides to not say "There's a bad guy after me." It helps the couple that the Smythe-Smiths are quirky and readily accept the heroine into the fold (although it does feel somewhat too openhearted); there's no long, drawn out agonizing over whether society will accept the heroine. Quinn's witty humor is prevalent throughout the story, though it comes from the cast of supporting, young characters rather than the hero and heroine (rather like the young Bridgertons in their appearances in their older siblings stories).

A funny and, for the most part, lighthearted romance that shows the reader that sometimes it really is love at first sight....even in the midst of really bad music.

One thing I enjoyed about Quinn's previous books are that they are highly character-driven; there is often little plot, and little world-building (these being wallpaper historicals), but the books are still engaging purely because of the character development, and the development of the relationship between hero and heroine. My reading preferences are such that I take this development of the characters and their relationship to be THE key element in a romance.

The reason why I think Quinn's newer work, like "A Night Like This" (and "Just Like Heaven" to an even higher degree) doesn't work as well for me as her earlier work (eg, "The Viscount who Loved Me" and "The Duke and I"), is that the obstacles that the characters face in these books are external, as opposed to internal. So, whereas Anthony and Kate's obstacles in "The Viscount who Loved Me" were personal demons (fear of storms, of dying young), the obstacles facing Anne and Daniel in "A Night Like This" are external (the possibility of Sir George Chervil's threat to Anne, Lord Ramsgate's fury at Daniel, society frowning upon a match between an Earl and a governess). While there is nothing inherently wrong with having external obstacles as opposed to internal ones, they are problematic in a wallpaper historical, where the circumstances of external world are not as mitigating as they would be in a more traditional historical. More specifically, I feel like the external obstacles in "A Night like This" were too easily resolved, and led to little or no growth on the part of the characters. For books that are mostly character-driven, this is a huge loss.

Take the frowned-upon match between an Earl and a governess as an example. Many of Anne's decisions were affected by the reasonable assumption that Daniel could never marry her, due to the strictures of the society they live in. This view of the world was reiterated by side-characters (eg. Lady Pleinsworth), and seemed to pose a serious problem. But the resolution of this problem was hardly a resolution at all - the hero just ignores the strictures of society, decides to marry her, and the consequences of this decision are not addressed at all. This obstacle fails to develop Daniel and Anne's characters in any interesting way, and also makes the world they live in feel inconsistent. It's as if Anne is living in a traditional historical, but Daniel is living in a wallpaper historical (sometimes).

Another thing that I often enjoyed about Quinn's previous novels is the quirkiness of the side characters, which often shows up in the cute dialogue sequences. At some points in this book (and the previous in the Smythe-Smith quartet), however, some of the dialogue seemed too random and irrelevant, to the point where it was slightly irritating.

Having said that, however, I did enjoy reading the book, even though it didn't engage me as much as I would have preferred. Daniel and Anne are likeable characters, and the side-characters are too.

I love Julia Quinn's books and always look forward to each one. And though I was a bit disappointed with JUST LIKE HEAVEN, the first of the Smythe-Smith books, I still enjoyed it. Thankfully, though, this installment was an improvement from the first. Still light-hearted fun with cute characters and entertaining scenarios. But this one felt more focused. It had a more defined plot and an added mystery that kept things engrossing. And the humor was just right, it avoided being used as much as "filler", like I felt the previous book was. The character of Daniel was down-to-earth, a family man (which is a nice change from some romance books) and yet still had that alpha edge. And Anne, though at times a bit thickheaded, was still believable and relatable. I just really loved this story. Not nail-biting suspense or serious drama or thought-provoking tale. Just good, laidback fun. It was so cute, so fun and a perfect use of four hours of leisure time.

On A Night Like This in Regency England, anything can happen, especially when a beautiful pianist sitting in at the annual Smythe-Smith musicale catches the eye of a haunted, hunted man in desperate need of redemption.

Julia Quin has such a clever talent with her witty dialogue and entertaining secondary characters. Her settings are fantastic, I always feel as if she's set me smack dab in the middle of a fairy tale, where I pleasantly lose myself in the beautiful surroundings and historical details. I love the escapism she provides. The debonair Daniel Smythe-Smith has an interesting back story. Make no wonder Anne Wynter so easily falls under his spell and make no wonder how easily I fell under the spell the author wove with this enchanted story. I will admit that these two were not my favorite pair of all the author's couples but I loved the humorous moments and I adored Anne's charges, making this a light and breezy read.

Have you met the Smythe-Smith's? I was introduced to this delightful family last year with Just Like Heaven. The Smythe-Smith is a family who upholds tradition especially when it comes to the Smythe-Smith Quartet. The family has a lot going for them but musical talent is not one of those things. Every year the family gathers to put on a ghastly musical. This particular book focuses on Anne Wynter. She's is not a Smythe-Smith but rather the governess of Harriet, Elizabeth, and Frances, that steps in when one of the members of the quartet falls suddenly ill.
Daniel Smythe-Smith has just returned from exile. Although he's assured that all has been forgiven, he can't help but still look over his shoulder. He's immediately attracted to Anne. Both characters have secrets they've been hiding. Anne thwarts all of Daniels attempts to woo her. She has a shady past that has taught her to stay clear of men like Daniel but she can't help but be attracted to him and living under the same roof as him threatens to undo everything she's worked so hard for.
I loved every page of this book. Julia Quinn has quite a knack for story telling. She combines romance, humor, and a bit of danger and turns out a fantastic story. The Smythe-Smith's are an endearing family that I wish I was apart of. Daniel's and Anne's story is fantastic but I have to say Anne's students Harriet, Elizabeth, and Frances stole the show. These three girls are hilarious. Their dialog and banter literally made me laugh out loud at times. I love how Quinn writes her characters. I could picture the expressions on their faces which made me laugh even more. The Smythe-Smith's are characters that will warm your heart and win you over. Overall I thought this is a great story. This is a series that I highly recommend. You won't regret it!

Running, hiding, and always looking over your shoulder are no way to live. Both Daniel Smythe-Smith, the Earl of Winstead and Anne Wynter have been chasing and trying not to be noticed for too many years. Daniel is finally free of his demon, or so he hopes and finds Anne just when things are looking up is no coincidence.

Anne's poor decisions created a situation where she cannot reveal her true identity. She needs the governess job she holds to make sure she can survive and still looks over her shoulder every moment of the day. Daniel is more than a distraction for her; he is a complete and total obsession. The feelings are mutual for both of them and they know the obstacles. The question becomes which one will have the good sense to stop a relationship before it starts. Anne will allow one kiss to hopefully put a stop to it all but that one moment of bliss is the heart of every magical moment either of them could have imagined.

Daniel will pursue, Anne will taunt, and both will make wishes upon stars in the night. But will any of it fulfill their desire to be together. What Daniel wants he normally achieves but this time the hurdles are society as well as family with both proving to be daunting opponents what the heart wants. When Daniel becomes Anne's protector and they both show how strong they are together perhaps, the walls between them can come down.

Julia Quinn has the ability to take the written word and turn it into a magical experience. Readers are always treated to the joy of romance and the passion that comes from the simple touch of a hand.

This book has a few common elements such as love-at-first-sigh, and a governess with a big secret! It has a consistent pacing to a much darker turn of events. I was expecting a different conclusion to the story, not as predictable as it turned to be.

A Night Like This has great pacing and one of the kindest heroes I've ever read about in romance novels! Daniel was absolutely fantastic! I still don't feel like I'm a part of the Smythe-Smith family, but it was a believable romance, with clever and sweet characters that I adored.(..)

(...)

Not a typical Julia Quinn novel, A Night Like This has its charm in simple moments but, unfortunately, disappoints the most loyal readers towards the end. But the joy of reading her books is always there.

I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

I read a lot of romance novels. And most of them are just okay, and you sorta forget what a really great novelist can make you feel.

Reading "A Night Like This" was like a breath of fresh air. As I began to read, I couldn't help thinking, "now this is what a romance book should be". I don't understand the reviews that said this book was bland. It was a romance, between 2 people who fall in love despite their different stations. You can feel the struggle as well as the attraction between Anne and Daniel. Its a love story, not a story driven by lust or sex as so many novels are these days. And as always the dialogue is funny and clever.

I like that we're finally meeting the people behind the infamous Smythe-Smith concerts, that previous characters have grumbled about having to attend. Can't wait for the next in the series!

Blah, I didn't really enjoy this book, ended up skipping to the end so I could get to the next book. IMO Ann isn't really that interesting and Daniel's storyline is a bit confusing; I like him but I felt both main characters were a bit "whiny" and boring. I usually enjoy the "humor" in Quinn's series, like the Bridgertons, and book 1 of this series was OK. But this book lacked something. I am finishing# 3, and enjoying IT so MUCH more. Glad I gave it a chance and didn't judge the series by THIS entry. Now on to book #4.

This was the second installment of the Smythe-Smith Quartet. This was Daniel's story. If you remember Daniel was on exile after shooting and maiming his friend Hugh after a drunken card game that got out of control. Daniel has finally been allowed back to London after 3 years on the run, and he is taken with the governess Anne Winters...who is also very vague about her past.
It seems Daniel and Anna have a lot more in common than he knew.

What I love about this series is the humor. It is subtle but well done. the writing style and story telling keeps me engaged and entertained. the characters are well developed and I couldn't stop listening to the audiobook. Rosalyn Landor does this series justice

First off Julia Quinn is probably my all time favorite historical author, so I jumped at the chance to review this book. For you JQ fans, this is the 2nd book in her Smythe-Smith Quartet. The Smythe-Smith family is famous for hosting musicals that feature their extremely bad musicians of daughters. The musicals started in the Bridgerton series (by the way is my favorite historical series) as kind of a joke and has continued on.

This book takes place the same time as Marcus and Honoria's book (Just Like Heaven). But as like any historical romance it can be read as a stand alone. This is one thing about this book that I loved - it made me want to go back and reread Just Like Heaven. Daniel the hero in this book is Honoria's brother who had to leave the country because he accidentally shot his friend in a dual.

The heroine is working as a governess under an alias because of a scandal in her past. Anne and her interaction with the girls that she governs in this book kept me reading. Cute and funny - the best scene in the book is when Daniel and Anne have to act out a play that one of the girls wrote.

I think I hold Julia Quinn to a higher standard than other authors and compare all of her work to The Duke and I. I recommend this book - but I can't give it a 5 Star. It was good but not Julia Quinn great. If you haven't read Julia Quinn before - start with The Duke and I. If you love JQ like I do - you will like this book, but probably say "hmmm, not my favorite Julia Quinn book".

I bought this book and read it and i am a Julia Quinn fan, i simply love her historical novels of romance this book had just the right amount of love, hate, mystery and plots...It was a amazing book that i gave 5 stars and i highly recommend this book and author. I read alot of books and do honest reviews weekly

I have only read a couple books by Julia Quinn and I remembered I liked her well enough so I bought this one recently at the store. I didn't have much faith... I have started numerous romances recently and just could not get through them. This one, however, I finished the entire book in a couple days and have ordered another one by her straight away!

It had me laughing out loud at several points, and I love the silliness of the girls. In addition, it had a bit of a mystery going on (yes, you can sort of guess what's going to happen but I don't feel it took away from the story) but it wasn't so highlighted that the love story was washed out.

I think this book is a mix of all the things I enjoy in a romance.

I would caution readers...get through the beginning before putting it down. There is a portion where she meets the main man in the hallway. I have to say I did not particularly enjoy their first meeting... but I believe it gets much better and more than redeems itself!

Julia Quinn is one of my favorite authors, though I just "discovered" her this summer. Her books are so clever and witty, the pacing is great, and the romance is sweet. This book was wonderful, although it felt as though there was just a little something off, perhaps in the pacing (the leads fell in love almost too quickly, some scenes didn't seem neccessary (though they were cute), the confrontation/ resolution with the villain was just missing some element, I can't quite put my finger on what it was). I loved how strong the heroine, Anne, was, she rose above her past, accepted herself for who she was and fought for the future she wanted. Maybe that was the missing element of the book- the heroine was so capable, that I truly felt she would have saved herself, therefore the hero was almost superfluous, and perhaps not as well depicted as many of Quinn's previous heroes. This book did make me laugh, and I loved the supporting characters, especially 10 year old Frances, who loves unicorns, and the very intriguing Hugh, whom I believe will be the hero of an upcoming book, which I am very much looking forward to.

As all books written by this author, it's a lovely story. Granted, the mystery/drama subplot is a bit much and has some unnecessary extensions which don't quite come all together, but it was still an enjoyable read. The humour was good, I laughed out loud several times, mostly thanks to the nieces. I especially like stories were there are some children, they always add something extra, and this story is no exception.

"A Night Like This" is the second book in Julia Quinn's Smythe-Smith quartet. As much as I wanted to like it, it just did not grab me like some of Julia Quinn's older books did and I had trouble even remembering the protagonists' names only a few days after I read it. Not a sign of a great romance I would say...

We last met the myserious Anne Wynter at the end of "Just Like Heaven", when she filled in for one of the Smythe-Smith girls at the piano for the infamous Smythe-Smith musicale. And "A Night Like This" picks up right after the musicale, when Daniel Smythe-Smith runs into the beautiful governess in a darkened hallway at his aunt's house. As is often the case in romance novels, our hero takes one look at the governess and is instantly smitten, and proceed to spend the rest of the book thinking up excuses to get close to Anne. Anne for her part is just as attracted to Daniel as he is to her, but an unfortunate incident in her past has convinced her that there can be no happy ending for her and Daniel. Therefore, it is up to Daniel to try to convince her that he can be trusted with her secret and that they belong together.

As if often the case with Julia Quinn books, "A Night Like This" introduces us to a lively group of secondary characters that are just clamoring for their own books. Daniel's young cousins, in particular, are vividly drawn and are responsible for some of the best scenes in the book. Unfortunately, I can't say the same thing for the 2 protagonists, who remains largely two-dimensional throughout. Daniel is very handsome and...likable, but that's about it. Anne, on the other hand, wears her tragic past around her like a shroud, to the point where she has no personality beyond that which is defined by her past. There is also not enough conflict to keep the two lovers apart - as they professed their attractions to each other fairly early on. So the only thing keeping them apart is Anne's unwillingness to confide in Daniel about her troubles, which felt really contrived and did not make a whole lot of sense given how she was able to ascertain fairly early on in the book that Daniel is a good man and really cared about her. Another quibble I have with the book is that most of the humor in the book fell flat, making this one of the least funny Julia Quinn books I've read in years.

"A Night Like This" does feature a gripping prologue, which made me think that the book was going to be weightier than it actually is. Unfortunately, instead of shaping Daniel into a more interesting character, the life-defining events that happened in the prologue merely became a plot device to keep the protagonists apart longer. What did come of the excellent first couple of pages is the introduction of Daniel's friend Hugh Prentice, who was a lot more interesting than Daniel and was able to exhibit more personality in the few scenes he had than Daniel was able to during the book's entire running length. Hopefully, the author will write his story soon and that his story will prove to be more interesting and worthy of the build-up he received in this book.

After three years of exile, Daniel Smythe-Smith returns home on the night of the infamous Smythe-Smith musicale and is instantly enchanted by the stranger playing the piano who is completing the trio with his sister and cousin. When their eyes meet, both are instantly aware of their attraction to each other. But while Daniel has just returned from exile, Anne is in the 8th year of her own.

The mystery behind Anne's past is revealed fairly early on in the novel, and gives the reader insight into the inner conflict she faces between her desire for Daniel and the lessons learned from her past mistakes. Quinn imbues both the H and h with senses of humor that are reflected in their dialogue with each other. While there is intrigue in the story, and even danger for both H and h, there is also a lot of Quinn's trademark humor.

I enjoyed Marcus's role in the drama, and also found Hugh to be quite a likable character. Likewise, the young Smythe-Smith girls were lots of fun. One hopes that all will eventually get their own stories.

Raging High Prentice accuses drunken Daniel Smythe-Smith of cheating at cards. Though struggling for coherency, Daniels denies it, but Hugh, who knows every card, insist he could not have an ace. They agree to a duel. Hugh fires his gun a nanosecond early hitting Daniel in the shoulder. Though irate Daniel plans to shoots at a tree, but is distracted and hits Hugh causing permanent harm to a leg. Hugh's angry father Ramsgate vows vengeance as Daniel leaves the country for Italy.

For eight years Anne Wynter has hidden from her past. Currently she is governess to three Smythe-Smith females. Whether she butchers the piano at the family musicale or fears death by tuba, Anne does all with calmness until she meets the Earl of Winstead; as after three years on the continent Daniel is back. As they become friends and fall in love, accidents begin to occur that Daniel believes is intended to hurt him with only the Hugh incident coming to mind as the likely source.

The second Smythe-Smith Quartet Regency romantic suspense (see Just Like Heaven for the story of Daniel's sister Honoria and his BFF Marcus) is an engaging historical starring two likable protagonists who find love strip away their caution. Filled with humor, tension and a surprising plausible twist, fans will enjoy this wonderful entry.

Harriet Klausner

Though A Night Like This was not as light and funny as the first book in the Smythe-Smith series(Just Like Heaven), it was, like all Julia Quinn books, a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to finish. Our hero and heroine are beautiful, handsome, rich, strong, and smart, because this is fiction. More importantly they are believable, likable and kind to each other and to the minor characters. In this story, the H/H both made huge mistakes as young people and were forced to mature while dealing with the ongoing ugly consequences. I appreciated how they did not wallow in self-pity, but eventually accepted the lesson learned and behaved with more understanding patience towards others. The story balanced the danger and drama with lighter silly scenes and kept me up reading all night. The minor characters and even the villains are allowed to be multi-dimentional, and of course, those who have read several Julia Quinn books will quickly recognize the dismembered musical carnage that is a S-S musicale as well as the birth of the amateur theatrics involving Henry VIII and the unicorn, which are also featured in the Bridgerton series.

The beginning is interesting; a rake with a past and a governess who has secrets. Well of course, the rake wants to woo the governess and now the story falls into all kinds of silliness with this man frolicking with the governess and her three precocious charges. I'm sorry but this is just not very likely. I forge past this unsatisfying part and toward the end there is actually some drama and danger which pulls this novel out of the two star to the three star rating. I found this book just an "okay" read and it is definitely not up to the standards of her Bridgerton Series.

I almost always enjoy Julia Quinn's work. A nice balance of humor and angst (or semi-angst) and even in the midst of the most obvious ridiculousness (pecked to death by pigeons comes to mind), there's a grounded feeling to the characters. They know things are ridiculous and go with it as the story moves along.

Which I think is the difficulty with A Night Like This--great big gaps in realism and rationality. One of the problems, at least. At the beginning of the story, hero Daniel--though rather drunk--recognizes the stupidity of events as they are unfolding. After that, I didn't get it. Everyone was overly serious without any foundation explaining why they were that way. Anne, who was misled, seduced and nearly raped, somehow becomes the harlot and is not just cast out by her father after defending herself but cast so far as to land on the moon. Yes, I understand morals were different but Daddy Dearest's response was completely over the top, particularly since we're given no indication he was anything but a loving and indulgent parent before that. Perhaps if there had been some history of Anne's father being overly concerned about reputation and such, this would have made more sense but there wasn't. Just zero to evil in ten pages. And the villain, who seduced Anne, spends years trying to track her down and punish her for the wound she inflicted upon his face? Who does that? If he were so psychotic, wouldn't there have been signs before he fell right over the edge?

Second problem, very little happens. In fact, so little happens that after reading the last page I am having difficulty remembering what happened. There was the who's-trying-to-kill-Daniel mini-story but it was so low-key I had trouble getting worked up about it. I can't even get nit-picky with anything because, well, nothing much happened.

Third--and maybe this is just me--the writing style was so incredibly different from what I've come to expect from Ms. Quinn. I had to repeatedly check the cover to make sure I was actually reading a Julia Quinn book. I kept thinking I had picked up a Julie Anne Long book instead. Which would have been fine, I enjoy Ms. Long's work also but since this was Julia Quinn, it caused me some cognitive dissonance. It actually made me a little dizzy and not in a great way. The style wasn't bad, it just wasn't Quinn, so much so that I'm not at all certain Julia Quinn actually wrote the book.

I give this tale three stars despite the above because it was, overall, a sweet story and though it occasionally felt as if I was reading the same page over and over, I did want Anne and Daniel to get their HEA. I liked them both, even though neither one of them ever had the good sense to stop and say, "Wait a minute. You people are being utterly ridiculous. Get over it."

Julia Quinn is the first romance author I ever read. I think I read the Viscount Who Loved Me first, and was totally hooked on both the Bridgertons and the whole historical romance genre. I have read everything she has ever written, my faves being Romancing Mr. Bridgerton and When He was Wicked. I was quite excited when I heard she was starting a Smythe-Smith series. However, I have been disappointed with the last several of her books, and this one was no different. Have I simply grown out of Julia Quinn's novels in my voracious quest for a good romance read, or do other people feel that this was disappointing too? I know her novels tend to be very similar, but this one completely failed to engage me. I am so not feeling it that I am hesitant to buy the Bridgertons sequel, even though I love them! Mix it up, Julia Quinn!

When a Julia Quinn book opens up during a Smythe-Smith musicale, you know the fun is only just beginning. It's during this evening that Daniel, back from being on the run for the past three years, spots Anne, and is taken with her from the first second he lays eyes on her. Anne is a governess to Daniel's three younger cousins and once he finds this out, he decides that calling on his cousins would also include seeing Anne as well, so he makes his presence known in an effort to get to know Anne better.

Both Daniel and Anne are running from pasts that just won't stay buried. Anne was cast out of her family at 16 when she had her heart broken by a man who said he loved her, only to sleep with her and propose to another girl the following night. When Anne founds out the truth, George tries to force himself on Anne, she grabs the closest thing she can find, a letter opener, and accidentally cuts George's face with it, that leaves a scar across his cheek. He wants her hanged, but the compromise that both their father's come to is that she is to have no contact with her family ever again, so scandal isn't brought down upon her sisters and Anne is sent away to be a companion to an elderly woman. George vows he'll get his vengeance on her and Anne changes her name and takes a position as a governess. She constantly had to deal with unwanted advances from fathers or older brothers of her charges, but she hangs in there and eventually ends up at the home of Daniel's cousins, the Pleinsworths, but she has reason to be worried that George has finally found her.

I felt so horrible for Anne. All she was doing was defending herself, but a woman doing that and scarring a man is cause for scandal and her entire life was turned upside down. She literally had no one, no family (although she did secretly correspond with one of her sister's, her only family connection). She didn't let herself get close enough to anyone to consider them a friend. She seemed to enjoy her work as a governess, but even then, the constant wonder about whether or not George would ever find her was always in the back of her mind.

Daniel's nightmare of a past all goes back to one drunken night and being challenged to a duel by his friend, Hugh. Both men are too proud (and dumb) to back out, but both know that the other won't actually shoot to kill. Daniel is a dreadful shot, but one wrong slip on wet grass and an iffy trigger finger has an accidental shot hitting Hugh in the leg. Hugh survived, but he'll forever have a limp and pain, but Hugh's father is the one who has it out for Daniel. He swears that he'll pay for what he did to his son and his threats carry weight because Daniel leaves for three years, constantly looking over his shoulder. Hugh finally tracks him down, showing him a written agreement that his father will back off, and so Daniel returns home - but he too has reason to believe that maybe he's not as safe back home as he was led to believe and worries now not only about his life, but more important about his family's lives and that of Anne.

Both Daniel and Anne's lives are in danger on more than one occasion, each thinking that they're the reason for attacks that happen, but Anne has kept her painful secret from everyone and can't bring herself to tell Daniel the truth about her past. They keep getting closer and Anne has such a hard time actually letting go with Daniel. She was burned so badly in the past, she just can't give her heart away, and it broke my heart when she wants so much to love and be loved by Daniel, but she just can't take that risk. Good thing Daniel isn't easily swayed and he won't let Anne get away. I thought their love story was so well paced; they spent a lot of time dancing around each other, both just happy being in the other person's company. Anne takes a little longer to come around than Daniel does, but one afternoon with Anne, Daniel and the young Pleinsworth cousins made me love the whole group completely. The young ladies are hysterical. Truly. They're quick with banter and comebacks, they argue like only sisters can and they each have their own, wonderfully unique personality. Whether it's the whole group acting out a (crazy) play that Harriet has written or watching Frances act like a unicorn, these young ladies stole the show when they came on page.

Even with the fun antics of the Pleinsworth sisters, Harriet, Elizabeth and Frances, the romance between Daniel and Anne was so completely, swoon-worthy. Daniel just gets Anne right from the start. He knows she's hiding something, but he doesn't force her to share more than she wants to. Before Anne knows it, she's telling Daniel things she's never shared with anyone else. Their positions in London don't equal a match in the eyes of society, and Daniel could care less. Anne lets herself go with Daniel and they have such a sweet love scene toward the end of the book (the buildup takes awhile, but it's SO worth it) it's everything a reader would want for these two. Yes, they have demons from the past, literally, that are trying to hurt them, but their romance, friendship and easy banter was the star of this story.

I was completely charmed by this story and all the characters. Anne's past and the life she was forced into was heartbreaking, but she's strong and she did what she needed to do to survive. It was just nice to see her find someone in Daniel to stand by her side for a change. I loved them as a couple, I loved the supporting characters and I wish the book would have been twice as long just to get more of their story. Also, for the record, Daniel's friend Hugh, whom he shot in the leg...I hope he gets his book next. He plays a very small role in this story, but it leaves a mark and I want to know this man and get his story. This is book two in the Smythe-Smith series, but it reads well as a standalone and I had such fun reading it.

Blog rating: 4.5/5

I'll admit that I definitely have expectations when I pick up a Julia Quinn romance. I expect to laugh a lot, to love the main characters, and to be amused by the many secondary characters who surround the couple. Well, check plus on all three points for this book!

I feel like once you're familiar with Quinn's style, it is immediately recognizable. And that is the case here. I love returning to this London and to the great families she creates. There is so much love evident and for someone who prefers a lighter story, it is so comforting. I don't want angst-I want to have fun and Quinn always delivers!

This is the second book in the Smythe-Smith quartet and it overlaps with the end of the first book, Just Like Heaven, which I read last year but did not review. Daniel Smythe-Smith, Earl of Winstead, has returned from abroad where he had escaped after foolishly dueling with and injuring a peer with a powerful and protective father. It is supposed to be safe for him to return. However it is not exactly as he promptly loses his heart to his sisters' governess the lovely and mysterious Miss Anne Wynter. Anne has worked very hard to reach her current position and does not want to jeopardize it by flirting above her social stratum.

But as the book progresses, of course, she is charmed by Daniel and falls for him. Alas all is not well though with Daniel suffering several attacks that may have been orchestrated by his friend's father who still harbors a grudge and with Anne also threatened by someone from her past. Her story is an old one but not one any less worthy of compassion. I especially liked the climactic ending because of course Anne's past has to haunt her and of course Daniel has to go after her. But happily Anne can be her own heroine and save herself with Daniel just providing additional support.

While I did miss Lady Danbury who I remember playing a role in the first book, it is more than made up for by Daniel's three younger sisters who dearly love each other. One is an aspiring playwright and another has an obsession with unicorns; just a few of the quirks that make them so much fun to read about. And of course we have the traditional Smythe-Smith performances that open and close the book and will probably never not make me smile.

Overall: I think I actually liked this book more than the first although warning to those who don't like love at first sight stories. I usually don't but Quinn is so masterly that I end loving them.

The book is quite predictable: beautiful girl did wrong, goes into service. Wealthy, titled hero notices beautiful girl, falls in love immediately. They flirted, bantered, almost engaged in coitus, but didn't. But there's something stopping them from coming together, which is finally resolved in the end.

I just don't see the chemistry at all. If the girl was NOT extraordinary beautiful, she wouldn't have gotten into trouble, and the hero wouldn't have fallen in love with her so quickly. And the girl keep reminding us that she *went* into service, as it's a downgrade for her, although her social standing was only marginal higher. I just can't *feel* the heroine at all...

If you know about the Smythe-Smiths you know they can't play music and that the family is a little weird, but you have to like them.I liked that this book is somewhat intertwined with the end of the last book. It wasn't very mysterious as far as who was after who. The villian was stupid and shallow but the Smythe-Smith series doesn't sound like it's suppose to be a heavy or too serious read; it was nicely balanced that way. I read it all in one day and I thought it was just one of those nice summer reads.If you're looking for something more dramatic then this isn't your book.

I am a long standing Julia Quinn fan, so I usually wait patiently for her new releases and get them on the day they come out. "A Night Like This" was no exception. All this being said, I've found this title to be the weakest of all of Julia Quinn's stories... and I have read every single one of them, some more than once. The main thing that didn't quite work for me were the main characters. I simply couldn't warm up enough to either one of them. They seemed "bland" to me, and I couldn't feel that "spark" that I have perceived in many of Julia Quinn's previous work. This did surprise me as I can say that I have liked the vast majority of the characters this author has introduced in every one of her books. Of course, my inability to warm up to the characters affected my interest in the actual story. I just found myself caring very little over what was happening to Daniel and Anne.

Now, since as an avid reader I've followed many series, I know full well that I am not bound to like every single title within a series, so the fact I didn't particularly enjoy this book is not going to deter me from reading Julia Quinn's future work. She continues to be a favorite author. One among over 20 titles is not going to stop me from loving her work and recommending her books to my friends. I do have to say to anyone new to Julia Quinn that she has many wonderful stories to explore. Her Bridgerton's series is fabulous. My favorites in the series are "Romancing Mr. Bridgerton" and "To Sir Phillip, With Love", this one being the first one of her books I ever read.

You care about both protagonists and the book is well written and interesting. However, there is very little mystery and you can easily see the end of the book. It is a standard romance novel. If you like reading Julia Quinn's other books, then buy this. However, if you're just getting started in the field of romance, this is not the sort of book that I'd give to a friend to addict them to the genre.

You have two protagonists who are well fleshed out, but lack any distinguishing features which would convince me that they are actual people. It was poorly written in that sense. But there is sufficient plot and character development to convince me that this a good book, and I would recommend it to any of my friends who are big romance readers.

The plot was ok. The characters were ok. There were funny moments but they weren't LOL moments. Just "oh that is supposed to be funny" moments. I think humor is pretty hard to pull of in this genre and only a handful of authors can really do it. I don't think Julia Quinn is one of them. This was the first book of hers I have read and I won't be reading another. I read for entertainment. I don't want to be bored while reading.

I adored A Night Like This. A long-time reader and fangirl of Quinn, I enjoyed every second of this latest novel. Quinn's latest joined the first three Bridgerton books, and the equally brilliant Eloisa James favorites, for the top spots in my all-time favorite historical romances. Kudos to Julia Quinn, and thanks for the afternoon of enchantment and escape.

I always enjoy reading her novels. They're light and funny, and they usually manage to make me cry at least a little.

Daniel Smythe-Smith is back in England after he'd been living in exile for three years for shooting his friend in a dual. Anne Wynter is on the run from a man from her past who has threatened her life if he ever finds her. Between the two of them and their secrets, they don't know which one of them is being hunted. The dialogue is classic Julia Quinn, and though this one isn't as great as some of her others as far as pacing, it's still a really nice romance and Daniel and Anne make a wonderful couple.

A Night Like This is a charming, touching story about romance, family, and moving on from the past. This is one of my favorite Julia Quinn books yet and a historical romance that should not be missed.

Daniel Smythe-Smith, Earl of Winstead, has just returned to London after having been exiled because of his foolish youth. He is happy to be home, but he finds he looks at life much differently. He no longer drinks, his sister wants to marry his best friend, and his cousins governess catches his eye. As Daniel gets to know Anne, he realizes that he wants to protect her and keep her around for good. However, Anne has secrets, secrets Daniel must discover to keep her safe.

As I said earlier, A Night Like This is an easy favorite read for me. This book exudes charm. I absolutely love Daniel Smythe-Smith. He is a man who actually learns from his mistakes and he has re-prioritized his life. He is no rake or scoundrel, he just wants to be with his family and become the Earl he was born to be. When he meets Anne, he is smitten. Yes, smitten. Daniel will do just about anything for Anne, to spend time with her. He is this powerful Earl, but he will spend time with his young cousins discussing unicorns and acting out plays just to spend time with Anne. He is not bothered by the different class Kate is from, he knows what he wants and sets to to get it. (Okay, he has trouble figuring out exactly what he wants at first, but the bottom line is that he wants Anne)

Anne herself is an intriguing character. Her secrets are slowly revealed and throughout the book, it takes time to unravel. She is a good match for Daniel, she knows what it's like to run from your past mistakes, and to learn from them. She even had to perform at a Smythe-Smith musicale, she is a perfect fit for the Smythe-Smith family. She has a difficult time trusting men, understandably, and I was rooting for her and Daniel from the beginning. Anne also has spunk, her past catches up with her and she is in danger, but she proves that underneath the prim governess exterior is a woman who is anything but meek. I was stuck in A Night Like This from the minute I picked up. I love the characters, the background, and I was smitten by the smitten Daniel.

I am a fan of Julia Quinn, I have yet to read one of her books that I didn't really like. Julia Quinn is a skillful storyteller, she writes believable romances, lovable characters, and makes the reader feel like part of the family. Historical romance readers, if you have yet to read books by Julia Quinn, pick up A Night Like This. It is part of a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend reading book 1, Just Like Heaven, first for background purposes, but it's not a must.

With the lovable, charming story of two lovers who have lived and learned, A Night Like This has earned a place on my favorites shelf.

*I received this book for review*

I adored A Night Like This. A long-time reader and fangirl of Quinn, I enjoyed every second of this latest novel. Quinn's latest joined the first three Bridgerton books, and the equally brilliant Eloisa James favorites, for the top spots in my all-time favorite historical romances. Kudos to Julia Quinn, and thanks for the afternoon of enchantment and escape.

I always enjoy reading her novels. They're light and funny, and they usually manage to make me cry at least a little.

Daniel Smythe-Smith is back in England after he'd been living in exile for three years for shooting his friend in a dual. Anne Wynter is on the run from a man from her past who has threatened her life if he ever finds her. Between the two of them and their secrets, they don't know which one of them is being hunted. The dialogue is classic Julia Quinn, and though this one isn't as great as some of her others as far as pacing, it's still a really nice romance and Daniel and Anne make a wonderful couple.

A Night Like This is a charming, touching story about romance, family, and moving on from the past. This is one of my favorite Julia Quinn books yet and a historical romance that should not be missed.

Daniel Smythe-Smith, Earl of Winstead, has just returned to London after having been exiled because of his foolish youth. He is happy to be home, but he finds he looks at life much differently. He no longer drinks, his sister wants to marry his best friend, and his cousins governess catches his eye. As Daniel gets to know Anne, he realizes that he wants to protect her and keep her around for good. However, Anne has secrets, secrets Daniel must discover to keep her safe.

As I said earlier, A Night Like This is an easy favorite read for me. This book exudes charm. I absolutely love Daniel Smythe-Smith. He is a man who actually learns from his mistakes and he has re-prioritized his life. He is no rake or scoundrel, he just wants to be with his family and become the Earl he was born to be. When he meets Anne, he is smitten. Yes, smitten. Daniel will do just about anything for Anne, to spend time with her. He is this powerful Earl, but he will spend time with his young cousins discussing unicorns and acting out plays just to spend time with Anne. He is not bothered by the different class Kate is from, he knows what he wants and sets to to get it. (Okay, he has trouble figuring out exactly what he wants at first, but the bottom line is that he wants Anne)

Anne herself is an intriguing character. Her secrets are slowly revealed and throughout the book, it takes time to unravel. She is a good match for Daniel, she knows what it's like to run from your past mistakes, and to learn from them. She even had to perform at a Smythe-Smith musicale, she is a perfect fit for the Smythe-Smith family. She has a difficult time trusting men, understandably, and I was rooting for her and Daniel from the beginning. Anne also has spunk, her past catches up with her and she is in danger, but she proves that underneath the prim governess exterior is a woman who is anything but meek. I was stuck in A Night Like This from the minute I picked up. I love the characters, the background, and I was smitten by the smitten Daniel.

I am a fan of Julia Quinn, I have yet to read one of her books that I didn't really like. Julia Quinn is a skillful storyteller, she writes believable romances, lovable characters, and makes the reader feel like part of the family. Historical romance readers, if you have yet to read books by Julia Quinn, pick up A Night Like This. It is part of a series, but it can be read as a stand alone. I would recommend reading book 1, Just Like Heaven, first for background purposes, but it's not a must.

With the lovable, charming story of two lovers who have lived and learned, A Night Like This has earned a place on my favorites shelf.

*I received this book for review*

I'm shocked by some of the bad reviews about this book. I'm the sort of reader who will not bother to finish the book at all if I'm not enjoying it, and I read this one in two days. The h and H are NOT 2D. And Anne is NOT a slut for having been used at 16. I mean, how many women do we know who have been treated in a similar way? This book is about two people who both made a mess out of their lives and are seeking to redeem themselves . . . and happen to fall in love along the way.

I love Julia Quinn, but this wasn't one of her best. Sure it was good, but it wasn't swoon-worthy. I have no problems with Love At First Sight as a plot line, but this was just too fast and unrealistic, there's just no way a Gentleman would act like he did, swooning after a servant. No matter how romantic this is, it wasn't believable. I did enjoy the mystery of it, even if it wasn't much of a mystery.

I've loved all of Julia Quinn's novels so far and this was no exception. Instead of telling the reader how well suited the hero and heroine are for one another as some lesser lights have done, Ms Quinn creates lively characters and lets them interact, with delightful results. And she also provides something as rare as virgins over twenty, wit. I look forward to her next novel!

This is not a Bridgerton book so I don't know why so many whiny reviews are complaining that they did not get a Bridgerton, that they wanted one, etc etc. Give a writer a break. Night Like This is different. The humor is more subtle, the governess more grounded in the problems of the world, and the hero more self-aware. I look forward to the sequel.

Daniel Smythe-Smith, Earl of Winstead, has been in a self imposed exile for three years after a drunken card game got out of control and he ends up shooting his good friend, Hugh. He has been constantly looking over his shoulder, guarding his life against Hugh's father who vowed to kill him for damaging his son. When Hugh tracks him down one day to say it is safe to return home finally, Daniel does and arrives just in time for the annual Smythe-Smith quartet musicale. He is intrigued by the lovely woman playing the piano who is surely no relation of his so how is she playing in his family's musicale?

Anne Wynter can not believe how she got roped into playing the piano when it is her charges eldest sisters job. But as she wants to keep a low profile and she needs to keep her job, she sees no other option. Looking up during a break, she spots Daniel and is immediately drawn to him. As their flirtation grows, so does their attraction and respect but Anne knows her place in life and she is hiding a secret that will surely shame Daniel. However, when her past catches up to her, Anne will do what she must to protect Daniel and her charges--even if it means leaving Daniel forever.

Ah, Julia Quinn. She can take a common storyline--a woman scored by her family for one reckless mistake and forced to be a governess or companion and then falls for an earl--and weave it in such a delightful manner! The sparring between Daniel and Anne is such fun to read and the addition of Daniel's younger cousins, to whom Anne is governess too, add another layer of fun that makes me wish for my own passel of sisters and thankful that I don't have three sisters at the same time. Watching the love grow between our couple was sweet, tender and sexy at the same time. If you are looking for a deep, serious book...this is not that book. If you are looking for something light-hearted, fun, delightful and guaranteed to make you smile and laugh but with just enough suspense to keep it from being too light, A Night Like This is for you! I believe old fans of Julia Quinn will be delighted with this book as will newcomers. Julia Quinn just seems to have some extra magic in her writing to make you smile the whole book and leave you sighing at the end. 4 stars

Here is a fun quote:

"Oh, my God," she whispered. She did not think she'd ever said those words so many times as she had in the last few minutes, but if there had ever been a time to praise the Lord's creation, this had to be it.

Side note: I was hoping the pink shoe on the cover would play some sort of role in the storyline but I didn't notice it. Sigh, oh well :)

**I received this eARC from Avon via edelweiss.com**

Don't read this novel on a crowded subway car or bus because at best you will be grinning like a besotted fool, at worst you will be laughing out loud. However, on a sunny beach or in a cozy armchair you will love this book and all if the Smyth-Smith novels.

3.5 stars

Although Julia's Quinn's Bridgerton series is written with great undertones of humor, this book seemed more broadly funny than any other books of hers that I can remember.

It starts off with Daniel Smythe-Smith drunkenly and accidentally winning a hand of cards. Accidentally, because Daniel is an indifferent card player whereas his opponent, Hugh, can count cards and is sure that Daniel could only have won if he'd cheated. This leads to pistols at dawn where Daniel again, accidentally shoots Hugh in the leg (he meant to delope). Hugh's father is a mean, vengeful man who vows to destroy Daniel causing him to flee the country in fear.

Despite the seriousness of events that occur, the prologue is written quite humorously. Daniel's befuddlement at how events spiral out of control is very entertaining.

After three years running always looking over his shoulder, Hugh tracks Daniel down and assures him that his father has ended the vendetta. Daniel can come home.

He does right in time for the annual, infamous Smythe-Smith musicale where he sets eyes on and becomes immediately smitten with Anne Wynter, the governess of his young cousins.

But Anne isn't what she seems and has some big secrets of her own. Daniel determinedly pursues Anne, despite her (feeble) protestations. She is determined to keep her job with the family and is aware that a dalliance with Daniel is a very dangerous proposition. Even more so that a spectre from her past has resurfaced and is threatening her current comfortable life.

JQ has gotten some great mileage out of the Smythe-Smith family and their dreadful musical ambitions and this book adds to that. As governess to a branch of the family, Anne has a first row seat to the madness. Much of the humor of the story stems from Anne's high-spirited charges and the witty, flirty back and forth between Anne and Daniel.

The drama comes from the revelation of the mystery of Anne's past. To the author's credit she doesn't draw it out until the bitter end. Fairly early in the story we get treated to a flashback that fills in the details of Anne's history. So I spent a lot of the story in anticipation of Daniel learning the truth as well. When it all comes to a head, it is very satisfying.

I only gave it 3.5 stars because there were points early in the story that I thought it dragged a bit. But it rebounds well. And Hugh makes for a great breakout character. Hope he gets his own story.

Recommended.

I have never read a Julia Quinn book that I didn't love and this is no exception. Daniel Smythe-Smith has come home after three years abroad. His exile in Italy was the result of a duel in which he accidentally shot and wounded his friend and the man's father swore to kill him. Now assured that the threat has been removed, Daniel returns home on the night of the dreaded Smythe-Smith musicale.
Anne Wynter is the governess of Daniel's nieces and has been coerced into playing the piano for the recital after one of the girls fakes an illness. Anne is mortified at having to perform in public, not only because she knows how horrible the group sounds but also because she does not like to be on public display. Anne has secrets in her past and she means to keep them there. Daniel spots her right away and is drawn to her but she has been burned before by the master of a house she works in and doesn't want to lose her job.
Ms. Quinn has written a delightful tale of a man charming his way into a woman's heart. There is plenty of romance to be had and a good helping of suspense as well. What always make me happiest in Ms. Quinn's books are the little vignettes she adds that show the caring and good humor of the characters. There is a scene where Daniel participates in a 12 act play that one of the girls wrote that is absolutely hilarious.
Daniel and Anne are both good people who have made tragic mistakes in their lives which they have paid a heavy price. Daniel has made peace with his past and is ready to move on but Anne is not there yet and has a lot of fear about her future and what could happen if she lets her guard down. As always love conquers all but it is a convoluted path to the end. I am on pins and needles for the next Smythe-Smith installment.

I like this love story.
I picked four stars because it sounds good love between two people are struggling to overcome their barrier because both of them are in economic class. He never gave up on her because of his love.
I suggest readers who want a great romance book is "A Night Like This".

There were a lot of things to really like about this book. One, I love that the heroine is actually flawed and is someone who society would perceive as still being ill-suited to marry an Earl. Two, the young ladies are charmingly ridiculous. Three, Hugh is a great character.

Dislikes: One, the ending is rushed - a lot of what would be an obstacle in this book was really glossed over (ie the heroine's status) at the end and you really learn nothing about it. A lot is made earlier in the book about how she could never be someone that the hero could marry, but then they do, and you see none of the fall out. Two, charming as the young charges are the scenes that they are in are simply too long. Three, the romance, while having some nice tension, is quite superficial.

I'm between a three and a four on this one. I enjoyed it, it's a good read, but I feel like this was poorly edited. The first 2/3 of the book should have been a 1/3 and the last part should have been expanded.

Gosh I am amazed at how boring the book was

When I read a romance ,I look for an interesting plot and prose style , sexy hero and gorgeous heroine, witty and interesting dialogue ,funny and tender moments ..I need to read sth that grabs me ..

This story bored me to tears..

I tried ..i really did ..I knew what I expect from JQ : light and fun read with no depth ..

I think JQ is unable to write a deep ,profound romance that touches the heart ..but I respect her ..I do ..but If I compare her to Lisa Kleypas or Gaelen Foley or Julie Garwood...well..do I need to expand?

Do you know how I feel when I read a JQ story ?I feel cheated ..especially when I read paragraphs and paragraphs of boring and meaningless thoughts of either of the main characters ..I feel JQ is just trying to fill up pages ..

Though I had a lot of fun reading The Duke and I and The Viscount who Loved me ..
But I realize the Bridgerton era is over

This story lacks the wit of The Duke and I..Daniel was boring ..Anne was boring ..I did not care about what would happen to them ..
It is Redundant!
No sexual tension ..no witty repartee ..no tender moments or moments that make you hold your breath in anticipation ..no suspense ..nothing !

U know what I did as I was struggling to read it ?
I said to myself : life is too short to suffer reading sth like this ..I threw it away and grabbed How the Marquess was Won by Julie Anne Long ..and you know what ? I finished it in a day and a half !!Julian was hot and phoebe was adorable ..

I think this will be my last JQ story

At yet another Smythe-Smith Musicale, we meet the young earl Daniel Smythe-Smith, back from exile on the Continent and Anne Wynter, the mysterious and charming governess to the Smythe-Smith cousins. Anne has played the role of servant for the past several years due to a nearly scandalous incident in her youth that caused her to be shunned and tossed aside by her own family. Daniel has his own past to deal with - he's been on the Continent hiding from his best friend's vengeful father, and only has returned at the pleas of that very friend. Upon his return, it is Anne whom he instantly becomes enamored with. Daniel will not let her hide in the shadows and continues to create situations where they will cross paths, to the point of using her charges in his plans. Anne knows what it is like to be pursued by a man of a higher class, but there's something about Daniel that draws her in... until she realizes that the past has caught up with her. Daniel realizes that there are things about Anne that don't add up and when danger comes calling he soon realizes that it is not him that is being targeted.

I have been a fan of Julia Quinn since the first Bridgerton books, but this one just didn't live up to her great storytelling skills. The book was a quick read, probably due to the fact that there just wasn't that much depth, which is so unlike the author! I was also disappointed with the back and forth pull between Daniel and Anne - to me, though their relationship was between different classes, there were still things that happened a bit to quickly, especially if Anne has been hurt in the past. It is a good book to read if you're trying to keep up with the characters in the Bridgerton/Smythe-Smith world.

RomanceReviewz

This book reminded my why I fell in love with Julia Quinn's books so many years ago. It was lighthearted without being frivolous, full of chemistry and heat without being smutty, exciting without being overwhelming, and most importantly, incredibly romantic without being sappy. I loved the back and forth between Anne and Daniel, and how both characters grew over the course of the novel. Even the side characters were entertaining, with very few characters who weren't actually important to the storyline.

Unfortunately, some of my absolute favorite parts of the novel are also spoilers, and as the copy I read was an "uncorrected proof", I can't even leave you with my favorite quote. Instead, you will just have to trust me when I say that this is one of the most utterly romantic novels that I have read in a very long time, and it will be firmly ensconced on my "Favorites" shelf for a long time to come.

Easily 5/5 Stars.

{This title was received, free of charge, from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The full review is available on The Romanceaholic}

The problem with this book is that the heroine is simply too dull, boring, and crass for it to be believable that Daniel Smythe-Smith would fall so suddenly and completely in love with her. Nothing about her sparkles. She's ordinary and dull, too scolding, and too much of a doe-in-headlights--not a stand-out heroine. Which is a shame, because the hero is very likeable. I don't want ordinary women in novels--I want a spark and sparkle, someone unique whom the hero can see clearly is different from all the others and worthy of his heart. This female lead is not one of them.

I loved the Bridgerton series and always buy Julia Quinn's books once they are released. But her recent books haven't had the emotional pull of her older novels.

Night Like This is just an OK story - i.e. disappointing from such a wonderful author. The lead characters weren't particularly memorable and the story wasn't emotionally gripping or exciting. I'll still buy Quinn's books, in anticipation that she'll write with her former sparkle.

I was looking forward to another good JQ book. Sadly this was not the case with A Night Like This. Hurried trite cardboardy sagging sagging middle boring lifeless ending. In much of the book it did not even seem like JQs voice. What happened to the sparkle

This has been a bad two weeks - first Cheryl Holt's new book (Nicholas) proved to be a disaster, and now Julia Quinn (quite one of my favourite writers) turns in a book which is pleasant, but completely lacks that edge which seperates a good Regency from the rest. Maybe I expected too much on this one - Ms Quinn is a good writer with an uncommon gift for mixing humour and drama in her work - but somehow, the characters just felt too one dimensional, and the plot too hackneyed to make this into anything other more than a disappointingly common garden Regency.

Julia has missed her stride since the end of the Bridgerton series. Perhaps she needs to have some of their grandchildren grow up. While this book is the best of this series and still much better than most books of this genre, it is only OK. Little spark, nothing particularly appealing about the protagonists, minimal plot. Two lunatics in one book was an extreme reach to make up for little else in the plot. Ultimately I wasn't sorry that I read it but I won't ever read it again.

It's the first of Julia Quinn's books I've read but she has a new fan in me. Her characters, setting and story were truly entertaining. I recommend it to fans of Historical Romance, family series, and a fun story.

A romance for adults. Quietly relaxing with a twist of a difference showing life in it's true colour......that there is always a time of regret and a time when someone may offer unnecessary violence.

Julia's my favorite historic romance author and she did not disappoint. I love her characters and her stories. This book is no exception! Couldn't put it down and was sad to see it end. Smythe-Smith's are warm, funny and loving. A great addition to the Bridgertons.

As always JQ has spun another wonderful story. The Smythe-Smiths are a fun family to read about & I love that we get to read about one of the gentleman. If you're already a JQ fan, or even if you're not, this book is sure to delight!

Much of Ms. Quinn's work is entertaining, even if a bit light. This book, however, was so light that it rapidly became simply a caricature, so much so that it was actually an embarassingly ridiculous read. Hero falls immediately and madly in love with heroine upon sight, then assaults best friend for kissing sister, then proceeds to slaver over heroine (despicably indiscreet stalking, in my view). The villain and the hero both were portrayed as thoroughly lacking in much of a semblance of self-control, intelligence, or charisma, with only the villain supposedly mad. Perhaps I was simply not in the mood to encounter a parody of the genre.

I must say, I was very disappointed in this book. It was not a page turner (as Julia Quinn's usually are), and I'm tired of the author repeating the same characters and settings book after book. Julia Quinn is a better than this. Hopefully the auther will write something fresh and new. If not, I'll pass.

I am a huge Julia Quinn fan, but I have been disappointed in her last few books and this one was no different. I felt like the elements were there for this to be a better novel than it was. First, there was some of the witty banter we always enjoy in JQ's books, but this felt like it was going no where and was just banter for the sake of banter. Also, there was a heroine with a secret and hero with a tortured past. Unfortunately, the secret was revealed and resolved without much ordeal, and the tortured past was sadly kind of passed over. Then, all of a sudden a crazy bad guy jumps in to desperately try to interject some excitement, but it falls flat.

If you want mind candy and and a resolution with no messy leftovers then this is a good book for you. However, if you are a big fan of earlier JQ books (I love When He was Wicked, Romancing Mr. Bridgerton, and The Secret Diaries of MMC) then you should pass because you will feel slightly cheated and kinda "meh" after reading this one.

The book is quite predictable: beautiful girl did wrong, goes into service. Wealthy, titled hero notices beautiful girl, falls in love immediately. They flirted, bantered, almost engaged in coitus, but didn't. But there's something stopping them from coming together, which is finally resolved in the end.

I just don't see the chemistry at all. If the girl was NOT extraordinary beautiful, she wouldn't have gotten into trouble, and the hero wouldn't have fallen in love with her so quickly. And the girl keep reminding us that she *went* into service, as it's a downgrade for her, although her social standing was only marginal higher. I just can't *feel* the heroine at all...

Waited for this next installment in the Bridgerton series. This one revolved around the return of Daniel Smythe-Smith and the annual family musicals. The plot is weak and while there is some humor most of it is contrite. When I got to the end I did not feel that great feeling of enjoyment. Didn't want to pass it on to friends either. Waste of time and money.

I really miss the old JQ novels. You know, where her characters DIDN'T fall in love with each other right off the bat. And maybe the heroine wasn't drop dead gorgeous (the wallflowers need love too!). There's no sexual/romantic tension when you have the characters kissing by page 26. At this point I'm not sure she'll ever top the Anthony/Kate or Colin/Penelope love stories but one can hope.

What happened to the Julia Quinn I loved so much who wrote the wonderful Bridgerton Series? I couldn't finish this book. It isn't up to par with her previous work. The Bridgerton series was so charming with her unique writing style and wit. If this is your first JQ book please do yourself a favor and read that series and don't judge her on this one.

A story on the Symthe-Smith family? I couldn't wait for this book to get here. Was I swept away? Far from it. My feet remained firmly planted in the mire of disappointment. This book was nowhere close to the brilliance of Julia Quinn's earlier works.

When I was a kid I thought Spaghettios were the best tasting food ever created. I could devour an entire can on my own and would have them as an after school snack all the time. When I grew up, I went years without having any, until one day, when I was in my late 20s, my toddler niece was having Spaghettios and remembering how much I loved them, I had some too...and proceeded to spit them out of my mouth almost immediately as I discovered they are disgusting beyond words. I am starting to have a similar reaction to Quinn's books.

Even though I have not cared for the last several Quinn titles (pretty much everything after the Bridgerton series), I continue to read each new release in hopes of capturing the delight I experienced when I read her earlier works. I checked A Night Like This out from the library (at least I have learned to stop paying for the privilege of reading books I end up disliking) and hoped for the best.

No such luck. I was not especially drawn in by the prologue, but I soldiered on. I found Daniel Smythe-Smith to be somewhat bland and not the brightest tool in the shed to the point that he reminded me of Nigel Berbrooke from Quinn novels past (not exactly the image I would prefer for the hero of the book). Daniel was a little too emotional for my liking. By the middle of the book, I was skimming. There didn't seem to be much depth to the characters. This story just didn't captivate (for me) and felt rather colorless and bland as though we were all just going through the motions. There were too many coincidences for my liking ("You have a crazy person stalking you? Me too!"). Much of the language came across as though chosen from a Trite Phrase Dictionary, the villian may as well have been a cardboard cutout, and the heroine seemed to ricochet all over the place. And the worst of all...the Smythe-Smith musicales have been ruined for me. The musicales used to provide humorous moments in past books. Now they feel like a cheap tool being used to draw a Bridgerton ready-made audience to a lackluster book that I likely would never have picked up had it not had Julia Quinn's name on it and a reference to stories I used to enjoy. I guess it's time to let go of Quinn titles even as library check outs. Sorry Julia, I just don't like Spaghettios anymore.

I loathe saying this, but I am afraid I fall in the category of reader who, in recent books has found Julia Quinn's writing more tired, trite and unreadable with each subsequent publication! This particular book being the worst to date. I wish we could bring back the Julia who wrote about the Bridgerton's with such romance, warmth, wit and tenderness, as I miss her dearly.

Julia Quinn used to be my favorite author. You could always count on her for a humorous well written novel. In the last few years I've read a few of her interviews where she really seems to have gotten sick of writing historical fiction but sees it as a means to pay the house note. I wish I hadn't bought this one. It is definitely not up to her old standards and simply felt like she was just going through the motions.

I was looking forward to another good JQ book. Sadly this was not the case with A Night Like This. Hurried trite cardboardy sagging sagging middle boring lifeless ending. In much of the book it did not even seem like JQs voice. What happened to the sparkle