Powder and Patch
by Georgette Heyer
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"Georgette Heyer is unbeatable!"- —Sunday Telegraph
"Charming, charming, charming. And highly readable!"
"Witty dialogue and well-developed storylines—even Jane Austen could do no better."
"Scintillating and very human love story by an author of exceptional talents."
"Ms. Heyer's effervescent wit and obvious ability to tell a good and humorous story is already evident, making Powder and Patch an enjoyable and worthwhile read."
"This story sparkles with witty dialogue and wonderful descriptions of costumes and festivities of the 1700s. I re-read it at least once a year and I enjoy it as much as the first time, again and again!"
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This romance mainly takes place in Georgian England. Philip Jettan falls in love with beautiful Cleone, but he is not sophisticated enough for her tastes, so she rejects him. Philip leaves for France and when he returns months later, he is totally transformed: He speaks French, wears the latest Parisian fashion, duels and writes poetry, and is hardly recognizable. Now that all the ladies wish to catch this fashionable man, Cleone realizes that the down to earth Philip of the old days was not so bad after all. Of course, misunderstandings, intrigues and woes of the heart ensue.
Listening to this was laborious because the story frankly was stupid to me, especially Cleone's behavior. I just wanted to shake her. The portrayal of Paris was show more interesting, but nearly everything in this novel felt over the top. Still, I wished to know how things developed and I enjoyed some of the dialogues, although others included a lot of harmful stereotypes about women, which was annoying.
The original title of this was The Transformation of Philip Jettan, it was republished as Powder and Patch in 1930, minus the last chapter. I was curious and read it on Project Gutenberg, but was rather disappointed becausePhilip and Cleone travel to Paris and Philip is portrayed as truly transformed and digging his new self. To me it would have felt more authentic if he had thrown away his wig and the couple had continued to live a quiet life in the country. I really don't get the message of this, if there is any. show less
Listening to this was laborious because the story frankly was stupid to me, especially Cleone's behavior. I just wanted to shake her. The portrayal of Paris was show more interesting, but nearly everything in this novel felt over the top. Still, I wished to know how things developed and I enjoyed some of the dialogues, although others included a lot of harmful stereotypes about women, which was annoying.
The original title of this was The Transformation of Philip Jettan, it was republished as Powder and Patch in 1930, minus the last chapter. I was curious and read it on Project Gutenberg, but was rather disappointed because
A country gentleman with no pretension towards fashion, young Philip Jettan finds himself faced with an ultimatum when his lady love, Mistress Cleone Charteris, informs him that she will have none of him, unless he gains a little "town polish." With wounded feelings he sets off to obey, and succeeds beyond anyone's wildest imagination. But will the newly exquisite "petite Philippe" still have time for Cleone when he returns?
Originally published in 1923 under the title The Transformation of Philip Jettan, and then reprinted as Powder and Patch in 1930, this was one of Georgette Heyer's earliest novels, and it shows. There is little narrative tension here, as the reader can be in no doubt as to the outcome of the tale, and the show more self-conscious manner in which the author addresses her readers feels somewhat awkward and forced.
There were, moreover, some passages in Powder and Patch that should offend any right-thinking woman, as when Lady Malmerstoke informs Philip that "Women don't reason. That's a man's part." The subsequent passages, in which the lady informs our hero that women really want to be "mastered," were enough to set my teeth on edge, and Heyer's famously polished prose - normally a compensation for moments such as these - did not yet seem to be fully developed.
All in all, this is not a novel I would recommend to a general readership, and I think its primary interest must lie in what it reveals about the evolution of its author's skills as a writer. show less
Originally published in 1923 under the title The Transformation of Philip Jettan, and then reprinted as Powder and Patch in 1930, this was one of Georgette Heyer's earliest novels, and it shows. There is little narrative tension here, as the reader can be in no doubt as to the outcome of the tale, and the show more self-conscious manner in which the author addresses her readers feels somewhat awkward and forced.
There were, moreover, some passages in Powder and Patch that should offend any right-thinking woman, as when Lady Malmerstoke informs Philip that "Women don't reason. That's a man's part." The subsequent passages, in which the lady informs our hero that women really want to be "mastered," were enough to set my teeth on edge, and Heyer's famously polished prose - normally a compensation for moments such as these - did not yet seem to be fully developed.
All in all, this is not a novel I would recommend to a general readership, and I think its primary interest must lie in what it reveals about the evolution of its author's skills as a writer. show less
This one got me through Election Week 2020 as I read a few pages each night/early morning in the brief period between when I tried to unwind from the news-deluge and when I crashed to sleep. So I'm grateful to it for that, and there are a few excellent set pieces (the bit about hiring a French chef had me in stitches). But this isn't nearly as good as much of the other Heyer tales I've enjoyed.
I’ve only begun reading Heyer’s books as of late last year and can honestly say that so far every single one has been a source of pure delight. No surprise- Powder and Patch followed suit in keeping me well entertained. This book, sweet, short, hilarious, with its oh-so-French flair was completed in one sitting.
The book is about Philip Jettan, son to the extravagant Maurice and nephew of Tom. The latter are both highly fashionable men, who are well known in high society; whereas the good-natured, but somewhat simpleton and rough-on-the-edges Philip, leaves much to be desired.
Philip is, however, the loving flame of Cleone, a neighborhood friend and great beauty. Cleone, along with the rest of Philip’s small family, all agree that show more the young man should get a make-over to improve his style, fashion sense, etiquette and social skills. Philip is not too keen on this and believes he should be loved for who he is. He makes a strong point- Except that things change dramatically when a certain Bancroft comes to town…
Bankroft is handsome, well-mannered, sophisticated, well-versed, and ever so fashionable. He also has a way with the ladies, and Cleone notices him immediately. She is seemingly swooned by Bancroft who pays gracious attention to her every need. Philip notices this but believes that Cleone is his sweetheart and that no one can ever come between them. Cleone admits that she loves Philip but will not take him as he is…he definitely needs refining. She would love him to be more romantic and worldly.
The decision is taken by both father and uncle- Philip is to go to France to become more civilized and worldly. Philip, enflamed by jealousy, finally agrees, and off he goes to Paris. There, a huge transformation takes place. Elegance to the max, Philip is the center of all attention- no party is worth going if he’s not present. He’s got style, class, fashion…and, a way with words that makes every woman want to be with him.
When he comes back to England, he is a changed man. But Philip wants to know if Cleone really loves the man, or the powder. It is a struggle of wits, suitors for Cleone, love games, jealous rants and more. Cleone is not used to this man who is no longer simple…intriguing to the max, she cannot resist him, yet she will not succumb. What will happen? Do they end up together or will Cleone marry another?
I loved this sweet story filled with old French sayings that I hadn’t heard in years (Salipopette!) the details in fashion and Phillip’s mundane experiences were totally amusing. The characters are also perfectly suited to the story. Heyer brings in Louis XV, la Pompadour and other figures of the times to further immerse us into a world of glamour, extravagance and fun- all precisely intended to highten Phillips magnificent make-over. The setting, the language, the story; everything about this book makes it an extremely enjoyable read. show less
The book is about Philip Jettan, son to the extravagant Maurice and nephew of Tom. The latter are both highly fashionable men, who are well known in high society; whereas the good-natured, but somewhat simpleton and rough-on-the-edges Philip, leaves much to be desired.
Philip is, however, the loving flame of Cleone, a neighborhood friend and great beauty. Cleone, along with the rest of Philip’s small family, all agree that show more the young man should get a make-over to improve his style, fashion sense, etiquette and social skills. Philip is not too keen on this and believes he should be loved for who he is. He makes a strong point- Except that things change dramatically when a certain Bancroft comes to town…
Bankroft is handsome, well-mannered, sophisticated, well-versed, and ever so fashionable. He also has a way with the ladies, and Cleone notices him immediately. She is seemingly swooned by Bancroft who pays gracious attention to her every need. Philip notices this but believes that Cleone is his sweetheart and that no one can ever come between them. Cleone admits that she loves Philip but will not take him as he is…he definitely needs refining. She would love him to be more romantic and worldly.
The decision is taken by both father and uncle- Philip is to go to France to become more civilized and worldly. Philip, enflamed by jealousy, finally agrees, and off he goes to Paris. There, a huge transformation takes place. Elegance to the max, Philip is the center of all attention- no party is worth going if he’s not present. He’s got style, class, fashion…and, a way with words that makes every woman want to be with him.
When he comes back to England, he is a changed man. But Philip wants to know if Cleone really loves the man, or the powder. It is a struggle of wits, suitors for Cleone, love games, jealous rants and more. Cleone is not used to this man who is no longer simple…intriguing to the max, she cannot resist him, yet she will not succumb. What will happen? Do they end up together or will Cleone marry another?
I loved this sweet story filled with old French sayings that I hadn’t heard in years (Salipopette!) the details in fashion and Phillip’s mundane experiences were totally amusing. The characters are also perfectly suited to the story. Heyer brings in Louis XV, la Pompadour and other figures of the times to further immerse us into a world of glamour, extravagance and fun- all precisely intended to highten Phillips magnificent make-over. The setting, the language, the story; everything about this book makes it an extremely enjoyable read. show less
Childhood friends Philip Jettan and Cleone Charteris seem destined for each other. Philip adores Cleone, and Cleone loves Philip. She just wishes he was more like the society gentlemen in dress and manners. When Cleone rejects Philip's affection, a hurt Philip vows to become the man she wishes him to be. What better place to acquire social graces than Paris? But will Cleone be happy with the new Philip?
I've read a number of books about women who undergo a makeover to win a man's affection. I think this is the first one I've read where the man undergoes the transformation. Heyer describes men's fashion in the Georgian era in great detail, and it's very different than the mental picture I usually have for a romantic hero. There's a lesson show more here about character being more important than outward appearance. However, I was uncomfortable with the “helpless female needs a man to protect her from herself” aspect of the story. show less
I've read a number of books about women who undergo a makeover to win a man's affection. I think this is the first one I've read where the man undergoes the transformation. Heyer describes men's fashion in the Georgian era in great detail, and it's very different than the mental picture I usually have for a romantic hero. There's a lesson show more here about character being more important than outward appearance. However, I was uncomfortable with the “helpless female needs a man to protect her from herself” aspect of the story. show less
Powder and Patch is a lighter piece of fluff for Georgette Heyer, and much shorter in length than the majority of her novels. The book centralizes on two characters, Philip and Cleone. Here is the synopsis:
The charm of Powder and Patch, as with many of Heyer's other novels, is her discourse on the social customs of the time, revealed through character exchanges and descriptions of dress and mannerisms for both ladies and gentleman. There is certainly a lot of great description of the clothing and accoutrement from the Georgian period in Power and Patch. Of course, what constitutes a gentleman has changed from era to era, in the Georgian period gentlemen must have great "love making" technique, have a certain air and posture, be a show more wonderful dancer, have a sly wit and, of course, must have great swordsmanship for all those duels to defend "my lady's" honour. Anyhoo, Powder and Patch is a fun read. I highly recommend for fans of Georgette Heyer but would recommend The Grand Sophy, The Nonesuch or Arabella instead for Heyer first timers.
http://myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com/ show less
The charm of Powder and Patch, as with many of Heyer's other novels, is her discourse on the social customs of the time, revealed through character exchanges and descriptions of dress and mannerisms for both ladies and gentleman. There is certainly a lot of great description of the clothing and accoutrement from the Georgian period in Power and Patch. Of course, what constitutes a gentleman has changed from era to era, in the Georgian period gentlemen must have great "love making" technique, have a certain air and posture, be a show more wonderful dancer, have a sly wit and, of course, must have great swordsmanship for all those duels to defend "my lady's" honour. Anyhoo, Powder and Patch is a fun read. I highly recommend for fans of Georgette Heyer but would recommend The Grand Sophy, The Nonesuch or Arabella instead for Heyer first timers.
http://myobsessionwithbooks.blogspot.com/ show less
This is Heyer's second novel, and I think it shows her as not yet being the fully formed artist she becomes.
Phillip is a country bred man; plain and with few airs and graces. Near him lives Cleone, who is the love of his life. All is well until a man from town arrives and with his polished ways shows Phillip up. He leaves to get a polish in Paris, having been sent away by both his father & Cleone, working in sympathy.
Polish duly acquired - and this is the middle section of the book, he arrives back in London shortly after Cleone has been taken there for the season. At this, there is much talking at cross purposes, both trying to conceal feelings behind a mask of society airs, flirting, and generally getting in a pickle when a good, show more honest conversation would have sorted the thing out in 5 minutes.
The principles themselves are a tad annoying. Especially Phillips continual slipping into French, mine wasn't up to most of this, I was continually guessing what was said based on what happened before and after, and filling in the gap. The older generation are the better drawn characters. Phillip's father & uncle & Cleone's aunt are the sensible heads in this romance.
It was good, but not great. show less
Phillip is a country bred man; plain and with few airs and graces. Near him lives Cleone, who is the love of his life. All is well until a man from town arrives and with his polished ways shows Phillip up. He leaves to get a polish in Paris, having been sent away by both his father & Cleone, working in sympathy.
Polish duly acquired - and this is the middle section of the book, he arrives back in London shortly after Cleone has been taken there for the season. At this, there is much talking at cross purposes, both trying to conceal feelings behind a mask of society airs, flirting, and generally getting in a pickle when a good, show more honest conversation would have sorted the thing out in 5 minutes.
The principles themselves are a tad annoying. Especially Phillips continual slipping into French, mine wasn't up to most of this, I was continually guessing what was said based on what happened before and after, and filling in the gap. The older generation are the better drawn characters. Phillip's father & uncle & Cleone's aunt are the sensible heads in this romance.
It was good, but not great. show less
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Author Information
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Georgette Heyer was born on August 16, 1902 at Wimbledon, London. She wrote The Black Moth as a story for her brother Boris. Her father, impressed with his daughter's imagination, suggested that she prepare it to be published, which it was by Constable in 1921. Having scored an instant success with The Black Moth at the age of nineteen under her show more own name, Georgette Heyer, she experimented with a pseudonym, Stella Martin, for her third book, published by Mills & Boon. She continued writing and in 1925 she married Ronald Rougier, a mining engineer. After reasonable but not spectacular sales from her first few books the instant success of These Old Shades in 1926 brought her a solid source of income which was very necessary at the time since the family relied to a large extent on the income from Georgette Heyer's writing. She wrote over fifty books during her lifetime and created the Regency England genre of romance novels. She died on July 4, 1974 at the age of 71. (Bowker Author Biography) show less
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Common Knowledge
- Original title
- The Transformation of Philip Jettan
- Alternate titles
- Powder and Patch: A Comedy of Manners
- Original publication date
- 1923
- People/Characters
- Philip Jettan; Cleone Charteris; Maurice Jettan
- Important places
- England, UK; Paris, France
- First words
- If you searched among the Downs in Sussex, somewhere between Midhurst and Brighthelmstone, inland a little, and nestling in modest seclusion between two waves of hills, you would find Little Fittledean, a village round which ... (show all)three gentlemen had built their homes.
- Last words
- (Click to show. Warning: May contain spoilers.)'Oh, Cleone - I shall write a sonnet to your wonderful eyes!' he breathed.
- Original language
- English
- Disambiguation notice
- Originally published as "The Transformation of Philip Jettan" by Stella Martin, later republished as "Powder and Patch" by Georgette Heyer without the last chapter of the original.
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Statistics
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- 1,280
- Popularity
- 19,067
- Reviews
- 32
- Rating
- (3.46)
- Languages
- 5 — English, French, German, Hungarian, Italian
- Media
- Paper, Audiobook, Ebook
- ISBNs
- 46
- UPCs
- 3
- ASINs
- 66