Simply Unforgettable [Hardcover]

Here's another ho-hum story, unfortunately, from the pen of the immensely talented romance writer Mary Balogh. It's not that this book is poorly written or plotted, it's just that Ms. Balogh has written books that were far superior. This will entertain you for the time it takes to read it, but "simply unforgettable" it ain't. In fact, it's been a week since I read it and I can barely remember the plot!

It's my sense Ms. Balogh, for about 4 years now, has been writing by formula. Worse, several of the books she's produced in that time seem to be trying hard to cover all the politically correct bases. The heroine in this novel has not one career but (count 'em) two! She's a school marm AND a world-class opera singer (who, interestingly, doesn't need to practice the 2 - 3 hours a day other great singers seem to require.) Of course her Regency era hubby is ecstatic about her performing in public and can't wait to promote her artistic career (that's what nannies are for, right?) I'm sure all male, British aristos in the early 19th century would have done the same.

Despite my disappointment with this latest work, I'll never give up hope Mary Balogh will one day write another unforgettable Regency-era romance (sans those plot elements that smack of 21st century sensibilities. I like my Regencies straight up with no ice, thank you very much.) The author who gave us The Notorious Rake, Heartless, Lord Carew's Bride, Dancing With Clara, and The Temporary Wife has already enriched the genre immeasureably and earned her place on the short list of the best living romance authors. In the meantime, I'll keep my well worn copy of those and others of her works close by and hope her next book will be their patiently awaited equal.

Ah, Mary Balogh begins her new, much anticipated series - a quartet of books about four teachers at Miss Martin's School for Girls in Bath. Ok, so what did I think of the first entry? Although, SIMPLY UNFORGETTABLE is pleasant, it is too tranquil, too restrained, it is like warm milk before bed. Sadly, Balogh's romantic spark and familiar poignancy are missing. After all, this is an author who can bring tears simply by describing a faded gown or a frayed hem. Regrettably, SIMPLY UNFORGETTABLE may be enjoyable but it is lifeless.

Mary Balogh brings Miss Frances Allard and Lucius Marshall together on a snow-clogged road. Was it fate or coincidence? Who knows? Nevertheless, that random accident changed their lives forever.

Frances Allard loves her life in Bath. She is content. She enjoys teaching and feels she is doing something useful. She enjoys her independence and enjoys her solitude. Yes, Frances Allard is content, but is she happy?

Lucius Marshall is wealthy, fashionable, and handsome. He is also the Viscount Sinclair of Cleve Abbey, but he is restless. He has promised his aging grandfather he will take a bride. So what is it the viscount now offers to Frances Allard? He offers to pay for her lodgings, her clothes, her jewels, is she to become his mistress? Alas, it does not matter, for Miss Allard walks away. Yes, Lucius Marshall is restless, but he is persistent.

That persistence is the governing focus of Balogh's story. Lucius Marshall will not give up Frances Allard. Is it fate that continues to bring them together, or is it the viscount's determination? Is it coincidence that continues to bring them together, or is it the viscount's tyranny?

Mary Balogh writes this story with her usual polish. Her words flow over the pages, and her story is easy to read. This devoted fan recommends SIMPLY UNFORGETTABLE for true Balogh readers, but don't expect the usual Balogh flair. Although I was disappointed, the blandness did not discourage me, I certainly will be buying the next book in this series.

Mary Balogh has been around a long time, and has quite a large following of faithful fans. Of course, loyal readers know exactly who the secret patron to Miss Martin's School for Girls is, but don't miss the delightful reference to Baron Heath, the musical connoisseur - he is the hero, from the novella THE BOND STREET CAROLERS, from the 1997 anthology 'A Regency Christmas Carol.' A nice memory, Mary!
Grade: B-

MaryGrace Meloche
Reviewer for: Romance Designs.com

Lucius, Viscount Sinclair rescues Frances Allard during a snowstorm when her carriage overturns. The two find shelter in an inn that has been closed for the Christmas Holiday. Over the next few days, while cooking together, talking about literature, having snowball fights and building snowmen, the two realize they are very attracted to each other and consummate their relationship.

Parting ways once the snow clears, Frances returns to her job in Bath as a school teacher while Lucius returns to London to propose to the woman everyone expects him to marry.

But contrived circumstances reunite the pair where Lucius discovers that Frances is a world class singer. Determined to rescue her from her boring dreary life as a teacher, Lucius encourages her singing.

What follows is a series of chapters with Lucius pursuing and Frances retreating because there is some big secret in her past.

The only thing that saves this book from being a dreary bore is the fact that Mary Balogh is a talented writer. For the most part though, this is a by-the-numbers-plot with a by-the-numbers romance. It was pleasant enough but when the big secret from the past is finally revealed it is rather a let-down.

Oh yeah, it is rather glaring that this is a contemporary novel disguised as a regency. It has a very "modern" feel that seems out of place.