Review of Head in the Clouds by Karen Witemeyer

Rating: 4.5 Stars

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Synopsis from Bethany House: Adelaide Proctor longs to find a real-life storybook hero to claim as her own. But when a husband-hunting debacle leaves her humiliated, she interviews for a governess position on a remote Texas sheep ranch and vows to leave her silly romantic yearnings behind. 

Gideon Westcott left his privileged life in England to make a name for himself in America's wool industry, never expecting to end up with a child. To his dismay, five-year-old Isabella hasn't uttered a word since she lost her mother. The unconventionality of the new governess concerns Gideon—and intrigues him at the same time. But he can't afford distractions.When Isabella's uncle comes to claim the girl—and her inheritance—Gideon and Adelaide must work together to protect Isabella from the man's evil schemes. Soon neither can deny their growing attraction. But after so many heartbreaks, will Adelaide be willing to get her head out of the clouds and put her heart on the line?

Review: Karen Witemeyer has created a charming and slightly suspenseful novel with a heroine to whom book lovers can relate.  Don't we all have our "heads in the clouds" at some point when we are engrossed in a novel?  There is a bit of Adelaide in each of us. Adelaide Proctor is a fanciful dreamer with a likable and sunny personality. She is a bit impetuous, especially in the beginning of the novel, but she matures and finds inner strength during the course of the plot. Fortunately, Witemeyer presents Adelaide with adversity so that we can see below the bright and whimsical exterior to reveal deeper layers of her personality. 

Gideon and Isabella are equally enjoyable characters. I have a difficult time envisioning Gideon as an Englishman, but he does display the admirable integrity and strength that one finds in the great British classics.  Isabella is a delight and a little star even in her silence.  Some of the most pleasant and heart-warming scenes in the novel feature Isabella with Adelaide, Gideon, or both. 

When I initially read the summary of Head in the Clouds, I was instantly reminded of Jane Eyre.   A fitting impression since Adelaide makes references to Bronte's classic novel throughout the book.  The main premise of Head in the Clouds parallels Jane Eyre, but it is a much lighter read and Adelaide is a more vivacious and outgoing heroine (though not as timeless).  Head in the Clouds has the potential to be just another generic, light read, but Witemeyer builds characters with depth and a plot with its share of surprises blended with tender moments.  Although I have not read Witemeyer's A Tailor-Made Bride and To Win Her Heart, they are now on my list, along with any of her future novels.