Jennie Gallant: Olivia

Olivia was published in January 1981 for Fawcett books and is #89 in their Coventry Regency series. Jennie Gallant (Joan Smith) writes about a rich girl named Olivia that decides to become a high priced governess. She is employed by Lady Synge, but her brother, Lord Philmot, takes exception to her studies and methods!

Allan Kass illustrates a cover taking place at a ball. Our heroine wearing an elegant dress of jade green, sits while our hero leans over her chair. His features are almost pinched, which I think is fault of the pose, but I like the details of the other couples dancing and the marble topped table. Sorry it's not a better image.

Jennie Gallant: Minuet

September 1980 saw the publishing of Minuet, by Jennie Gallant, a pseudonym for Joan Smith! This is from Fawcett's Coventry Regency line and is #66.

Lady Celeste, known as Minou, has escaped France during the revolution to England to find her father. She meets Lord Degan and they plot to return and rescue her mother and brother!

This is a great Georgian cover by Allan Kass, but I wish it was larger. The detail is exquisite and we miss the trimming on her gown and in her hair and the details of the room unless you stop and look. I like the ornate candlestick and the green gauze apron on her gown.

Unfortunately, these books are becoming harder to find since regency romances are not being published with any regularity. Check your used book store and eBay for copies.