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The Reluctant Baronet
When faced with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Scottish chemist Russell Parkinson finds himself thrust into a role he has never that of British aristocrat. Bearing his new title of baronet, Sir Russell circulates among the ton for the sole purpose of improving Society and saving lives. His plan is moving forward—but he did not anticipate meeting the charming Selina Clifton.
Selina is a survivor. She battled smallpox and won, her scarred beauty a testament to her strength. But she has no idea how she will survive what is now required of her. With her family’s estate in jeopardy, it is up to Selina to marry and produce an heir. She agrees to enter into a courtship with a gentleman deemed eligible but is less than smitten with him. When handsome new baronet Russell arrives in London, she is immediately swept up in their easy camaraderie. But as their feelings deepen, the complicated tangle of forbidden love that ensues will threaten friendships and futures—everything they’ve fought to protect.
Selina is a survivor. She battled smallpox and won, her scarred beauty a testament to her strength. But she has no idea how she will survive what is now required of her. With her family’s estate in jeopardy, it is up to Selina to marry and produce an heir. She agrees to enter into a courtship with a gentleman deemed eligible but is less than smitten with him. When handsome new baronet Russell arrives in London, she is immediately swept up in their easy camaraderie. But as their feelings deepen, the complicated tangle of forbidden love that ensues will threaten friendships and futures—everything they’ve fought to protect.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2023
26 people are currently reading
355 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
July 17, 2023
There are certain characters and tropes that are common in stories set in the regency period and while many of them are found in The Reluctant Baronet, there is one that is unique (at least in this reader's experience) and presented in a way that is authentic and touching. Our heroine, Selina Clifton, is a small pox survivor. Starting a review with breathy enthusiasm for a contagion might be a bit odd, but it was an intriguing aspect of the story and an essential part of Selina's character. Selina's physical appearance makes your feel for her. Seeing Selina's personality unfold in the early scenes makes you root for her. She is a wonderful leading character.
There are a couple points where the rigidity of society is uncomfortable, but I think that's the point. You empathize with the difficult positions our characters are placed in and hope for a positive conclusion. For those who don't see the base material, there's a theater trip to see A Midsummer Night's Dream to drive it home.
Reviews rarely go as granular as to highlight a specific scene, but one dance at the ball where our lead characters meet is such delightful that it warrants mention. First of all, I had to smile at the inclusion of the detail that the dance set lasted 30 minutes, which is a notable bit of historical accuracy. Second, the interactions of the characters being segmented due to the movements of the dance was beautifully done. Lastly, the set down of catty ladies who previously insulted Selina, Emma, and Vivienne was delightful.
There are a couple points where the rigidity of society is uncomfortable, but I think that's the point. You empathize with the difficult positions our characters are placed in and hope for a positive conclusion. For those who don't see the base material, there's a theater trip to see A Midsummer Night's Dream to drive it home.
Reviews rarely go as granular as to highlight a specific scene, but one dance at the ball where our lead characters meet is such delightful that it warrants mention. First of all, I had to smile at the inclusion of the detail that the dance set lasted 30 minutes, which is a notable bit of historical accuracy. Second, the interactions of the characters being segmented due to the movements of the dance was beautifully done. Lastly, the set down of catty ladies who previously insulted Selina, Emma, and Vivienne was delightful.
January 19, 2023
Elizabeth W. Watkins is a new to me author. I've seen her books previously, but hadn't read any. When I saw this one and read the synopsis, I thought I'd take a chance. At first I thought it was her debut novel since I didn't recognize her name. But when I went searching for more info about her I quickly realized it wasn't her debut novel and that I had indeed seen her previous books but had forgotten.
I really enjoyed the historical aspects that she brought into her story. I've been trying to recall if I've read a Regency novel that addresses some of these issues she did, and I can't remember any. It's always fun to find new tidbits and learn more from authors.
Russell is a Scotsman and has a newly acquired title. he was absolutely delightful! I loved his straightforward manners and gentlemanly ways. He is a chemist and I really learned quite a bit from his character in regards to certain things happening in this time period.
Selina was a sweet character. I loved her strength and compassion. And she's pretty witty. There were several scenes that she had me laughing and cheering her on! Her two dear friends and all of their stories added a great layer to this story and rounded it out. They all made me so happy while reading this book.
Selina is searching for a husband. And finds herself caught in the middle of two men. One she doesn't understand but is trying and the other is someone she has found a friend in. There is a mystery happening behind the scenes and through some unknown point of views we're given a little more information scattered throughout the book. I had fun trying to piece that together and guess who it could be and what the end game was. Boy I had a couple correct guesses but others I didn't. I thought it was great! I loved how it all turned out and brought everything full circle.
There are some upsets and things that happen that thwart both Selina and Russell in their attempts to better themselves and society and their friends. Watching how their characters worked through these upsets and kept trying to move forward and make the best of it all was great. They are both strong characters!
The sweet romance in the story was very rewarding. Hint...there is more than one sweet romance brewing! I loved how it all came together. Very happy and satisfying!!!
Content: Clean. There are some mild moments of peril but nothing overly graphic. Talk of death. No language. Only a few sweet kisses and nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I really enjoyed the historical aspects that she brought into her story. I've been trying to recall if I've read a Regency novel that addresses some of these issues she did, and I can't remember any. It's always fun to find new tidbits and learn more from authors.
Russell is a Scotsman and has a newly acquired title. he was absolutely delightful! I loved his straightforward manners and gentlemanly ways. He is a chemist and I really learned quite a bit from his character in regards to certain things happening in this time period.
Selina was a sweet character. I loved her strength and compassion. And she's pretty witty. There were several scenes that she had me laughing and cheering her on! Her two dear friends and all of their stories added a great layer to this story and rounded it out. They all made me so happy while reading this book.
Selina is searching for a husband. And finds herself caught in the middle of two men. One she doesn't understand but is trying and the other is someone she has found a friend in. There is a mystery happening behind the scenes and through some unknown point of views we're given a little more information scattered throughout the book. I had fun trying to piece that together and guess who it could be and what the end game was. Boy I had a couple correct guesses but others I didn't. I thought it was great! I loved how it all turned out and brought everything full circle.
There are some upsets and things that happen that thwart both Selina and Russell in their attempts to better themselves and society and their friends. Watching how their characters worked through these upsets and kept trying to move forward and make the best of it all was great. They are both strong characters!
The sweet romance in the story was very rewarding. Hint...there is more than one sweet romance brewing! I loved how it all came together. Very happy and satisfying!!!
Content: Clean. There are some mild moments of peril but nothing overly graphic. Talk of death. No language. Only a few sweet kisses and nothing further.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 16, 2022
A twist on Pride & Prejudice, this book finds two people meeting at a ball. The problem isn’t them falling in love but falling out of love. The problem isn’t wealth or status keeping them apart but something else entirely: an unexpected and unwanted engagement.
One of my favorite things about this book was how Russell was attracted to Selina because of scars she had from small pox. How she stood out from the crowd rather than fitting in with society. It was such a beautiful representation of true beauty. And Russell was just so sweet and protective and thoughtful 🥹
My only qualms with this book is some of the plot threads. Some of the story dragged, and other parts felt a bit incomplete due to how it played out, and I would have loved more scenes with Russell and Selina. But those are personal dislikes and no complaints against the content itself—this book was squeaky clean!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The Reluctant Baronet. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
One of my favorite things about this book was how Russell was attracted to Selina because of scars she had from small pox. How she stood out from the crowd rather than fitting in with society. It was such a beautiful representation of true beauty. And Russell was just so sweet and protective and thoughtful 🥹
My only qualms with this book is some of the plot threads. Some of the story dragged, and other parts felt a bit incomplete due to how it played out, and I would have loved more scenes with Russell and Selina. But those are personal dislikes and no complaints against the content itself—this book was squeaky clean!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of The Reluctant Baronet. A positive review was not required, only my honest opinion. All thoughts are expressly my own.
February 23, 2023
Who in Regency times didn't want a title? Why, that would be Scotsman Russell Parkinson, of course. I loved the elements of chemistry and medicinal progress that were displayed in this book, as well as the delivery of strong and solid characters.
I'll admit that I got a little confused at the beginning with the vast cast of characters, but once I sorted out who was who and how they fit into the plot, I was ready to settle into this sweet and entangled tale. Entangled it sure was! Not only is the reader treated to one love story, but to several, and the miscommunications, misunderstandings, assumptions, and secrets nearly finished me off, but I couldn't put it down. There are some mysterious to be unraveled and some happy endings to be found and the journey to these discoveries was purely entertaining.
I enjoyed reading about some of the historical issues of the times, but I especially liked the character interactions. I know a story is great when my heart is stolen.
Content: very mild romance; mild medical descriptions (poison, leeches, etc)
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I'll admit that I got a little confused at the beginning with the vast cast of characters, but once I sorted out who was who and how they fit into the plot, I was ready to settle into this sweet and entangled tale. Entangled it sure was! Not only is the reader treated to one love story, but to several, and the miscommunications, misunderstandings, assumptions, and secrets nearly finished me off, but I couldn't put it down. There are some mysterious to be unraveled and some happy endings to be found and the journey to these discoveries was purely entertaining.
I enjoyed reading about some of the historical issues of the times, but I especially liked the character interactions. I know a story is great when my heart is stolen.
Content: very mild romance; mild medical descriptions (poison, leeches, etc)
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
March 18, 2023
There was alot going on in this book!! And it was a SLOW BURN at a snails pace. But it was a good book. I quite liked it and appreciated the thought that went into it. Russel doesn’t want to be a Baron, he doesn’t want to marry, he just wants to live his life and experiment to his hearts content. But thanks to his friend Garrett, he is made a Baron and introduced into the TON, something he isn’t too happy about. Until he meets Selina, a woman scarred from illness who carry’s her head held high for the people she loves and their memories. She needs to marry, and it needs to happen this season. When Russel meets Selina, he changes his entire outlook on life. There are THREE love stories in this book and at first it was a little hard to keep them all straight, but once you figure out their names, the stories unfold quite nicely.
4.5 Stars
*I received aa copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
4.5 Stars
*I received aa copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book.❤️❤️❤️
March 2, 2023
I loved this cover!
The Reluctant Baronet was a 3.5 ⭐️. I believe this was the author first regency romance and I liked it very much. A charming story told with interesting topics. Small pocks, balls, duels and a bit of science. I wanted more of a romance between the MC but overall I’m happy with the HEA!
Thanks Covenant Communications via NetGalley.
The Reluctant Baronet was a 3.5 ⭐️. I believe this was the author first regency romance and I liked it very much. A charming story told with interesting topics. Small pocks, balls, duels and a bit of science. I wanted more of a romance between the MC but overall I’m happy with the HEA!
Thanks Covenant Communications via NetGalley.
March 8, 2023
3.5. I love the Regency period and decided to take a chance on a new to me author. Well done for the time period with a good storyline, I was eager to settle in. I will look forward to more by this author. My thanks to the publisher for a copy of this book.
May 12, 2023
Elizabeth Watkins is a new to me author but I really enjoyed this regency romance. The main characters are different than the usual titled gentleman meets debutante looking for a man with title. Unlike most men, Scotsman Russell Parkinson doesn't want a title. He'd rather be in his lab, but his friend has gotten him a title so he can help pass laws in Parliament that will help save lives.
Due to some smallpox scarring Selina Clifton doesn't have very many prospects, and after several unsuccessful Seasons she's willing to marry "an insufferable, prancing peacock" to help save her father's estate. That is until she begins to have feelings for a certain Scottish chemist.
I admit I was a bit confused at first with all of the characters, especially the mysterious brothers, but once I got them all straight I was able to thoroughly enjoy this story. I really liked Russell and Selina, I loved her spunk. Theirs isn't the only love story--there are a couple more--and there's also a mystery to be solved.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
Due to some smallpox scarring Selina Clifton doesn't have very many prospects, and after several unsuccessful Seasons she's willing to marry "an insufferable, prancing peacock" to help save her father's estate. That is until she begins to have feelings for a certain Scottish chemist.
I admit I was a bit confused at first with all of the characters, especially the mysterious brothers, but once I got them all straight I was able to thoroughly enjoy this story. I really liked Russell and Selina, I loved her spunk. Theirs isn't the only love story--there are a couple more--and there's also a mystery to be solved.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
December 28, 2022
This was very different from what I usually read from this time period, and it was a good different! There were some interesting personalities, plot twists reminiscent of The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins, and intriguing historical fact that made for quite the immersing read.
While there is an air of solemnity throughout much of the book, there are also some laugh-out-loud moments, thanks to some ballroom mayhem!
There was one plot thread I wasn't the world's hugest fan of, but it was rather miniscule as far as page time goes. The rest easily made up for that.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
While there is an air of solemnity throughout much of the book, there are also some laugh-out-loud moments, thanks to some ballroom mayhem!
There was one plot thread I wasn't the world's hugest fan of, but it was rather miniscule as far as page time goes. The rest easily made up for that.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 13, 2023
The premise of this story intrigued me. The heroine, Selina, is a small pox survivor. The hero is a baron from Scotland who doesn’t want to be a baron. He is also a scientist. I wanted to like this story, but I just didn’t. The meeting and falling in love seemed kind-of rushed. Then they spent a lot of time apart which kind-of dragged out. The addition of two more complicated couples really distracts from the main couple. There were lots of details but I didn’t really connect with the characters. I hate giving these kinds of reviews.
This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to give a favorable review.
This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to give a favorable review.
March 20, 2023
Absolutely loved this romantic, compelling, unique new addition to the Regency Romance genre! This is the first book I’ve read by Elizabeth W. Watkins and I can’t wait to read more. I enjoy books that include interesting historical aspects and have nods to literary classics. In this book, the author included intriguing discoveries in medicine and chemistry as part of the story as well as nods to A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The mystery, romance, and witty banter really kept me turning the pages.
Russell Parkinson is a Scottish chemist who’s done well for himself by making new, life saving discoveries. The last thing he expects is to be made a baronet. His friend convinces him that his new title and role in parliament will help him continue his important work. Meeting Selina Clifton was not part of the plan. Her intelligence and wit immediately draw him to her, but Selina seems to have another interested suitor. Will he be able to win her love?
Selina needs to marry to help save her father’s estate. Her bout with small pox left her with scars, but also made her more resilient. She has a suitor, but the dandyish man doesn’t really appeal to her. Meeting Sir Russell is like a breath of fresh air. She’s intrigued by his work and enjoys his forthright manner. But, the road to true love is fraught with difficulties and nearly insurmountable odds. Will she be able to find real happiness?
Loved Selina and Russell! Loved Russell’s forthright, blunt, Scottish demeanor. Selina is such an endearing character who you want to see get a happily ever after ending. Her two friends are also delightful. The mystery and tangles they all find themselves in seem insurmountable, but I loved the way everything was finally resolved. The beginning was a little confusing because so many characters were introduced at once, but after a few chapters I was easily able to sort out who was who and their relationship to each other.
I highly recommend listening to the audiobook version. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing the story to life and I enjoyed the way she distinguished each character especially Russell’s uncle with his Scottish brogue. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Russell Parkinson is a Scottish chemist who’s done well for himself by making new, life saving discoveries. The last thing he expects is to be made a baronet. His friend convinces him that his new title and role in parliament will help him continue his important work. Meeting Selina Clifton was not part of the plan. Her intelligence and wit immediately draw him to her, but Selina seems to have another interested suitor. Will he be able to win her love?
Selina needs to marry to help save her father’s estate. Her bout with small pox left her with scars, but also made her more resilient. She has a suitor, but the dandyish man doesn’t really appeal to her. Meeting Sir Russell is like a breath of fresh air. She’s intrigued by his work and enjoys his forthright manner. But, the road to true love is fraught with difficulties and nearly insurmountable odds. Will she be able to find real happiness?
Loved Selina and Russell! Loved Russell’s forthright, blunt, Scottish demeanor. Selina is such an endearing character who you want to see get a happily ever after ending. Her two friends are also delightful. The mystery and tangles they all find themselves in seem insurmountable, but I loved the way everything was finally resolved. The beginning was a little confusing because so many characters were introduced at once, but after a few chapters I was easily able to sort out who was who and their relationship to each other.
I highly recommend listening to the audiobook version. The narrator did a fantastic job bringing the story to life and I enjoyed the way she distinguished each character especially Russell’s uncle with his Scottish brogue. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher but also purchased the audiobook. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
February 11, 2023
After reading this book, I can just picture it being posted in a Scandal Sheet as a behind the scenes/ what really happened reveal. It was so much fun.
It started out strong, with a very captivating and fun romance. Or rather several romances! It’s almost confusing at first because there are so many people and perspectives to follow.
There are three main POV’s. Selina, Matthew and Russel. Among which there are several romances, Selina and Matthew, Selina and Russel, Selina’s friends: Vivienne and Emma also have HEA’s but with which gentlemen, I won’t spoil those details. It’s fun to see it all unravel!
And amongst all the romantic entanglements there is legal chaos and misunderstandings that make everything all the more entertaining. The romance takes a bit of a seat to this aspect of the story as everything develops and comes to light. But the conclusion of this story is incredible. It all intertwined and gripped me to the very end. It was a whirlwind and I am so glad I read it!
Thankyou NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the complimentary e-arc of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content: clean
Romance: some kissing
Violence: mild
Language: none
It started out strong, with a very captivating and fun romance. Or rather several romances! It’s almost confusing at first because there are so many people and perspectives to follow.
There are three main POV’s. Selina, Matthew and Russel. Among which there are several romances, Selina and Matthew, Selina and Russel, Selina’s friends: Vivienne and Emma also have HEA’s but with which gentlemen, I won’t spoil those details. It’s fun to see it all unravel!
And amongst all the romantic entanglements there is legal chaos and misunderstandings that make everything all the more entertaining. The romance takes a bit of a seat to this aspect of the story as everything develops and comes to light. But the conclusion of this story is incredible. It all intertwined and gripped me to the very end. It was a whirlwind and I am so glad I read it!
Thankyou NetGalley and Covenant Communications for the complimentary e-arc of this book in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content: clean
Romance: some kissing
Violence: mild
Language: none
January 8, 2023
Very well researched debut novel with endearing characters and a satisfying ending.
At times the explanation of historical facts felt slightly academic. However, it does help the reader to understand the complexities of the time period, rather than just romanticize it.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a digital reading copy.
At times the explanation of historical facts felt slightly academic. However, it does help the reader to understand the complexities of the time period, rather than just romanticize it.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a digital reading copy.
March 31, 2023
This was a wonderful, light, and entertaining read. Interesting twist and a little mystery mixed in. Selina and her friends were great characters! I loved the references to A Midsummer Night’s Dream and the similarities in the stories. Selina’s father was also a great character. Russell was great too. I loved the story and I loved the characters so it was such a fun read.
April 13, 2023
This book tackled so much. The poison that is Mercury, vaccinations, power, control, and wallflowers. Selina and Russell were excellent characters. The story was truly delightful and different from others in this genre, I say that a lot sometimes but it is truly lovely when the story holds new surprises and isn't just another season in London.
I love that Russell is an inventor and encouraged by his friend Garrett who could have had a story all his own. Add into it a mystery that kept me wondering and I found myself thoroughly entertained as well as concerned with how everything was going to work out as it should,
This story was well-written and the characters were well developed. Selina was a force as was her friend Emma. If only more of the ton were like these young ladies, maybe they wouldn't be so insufferable. Speaking of insufferable, the villain and eventually how he was thwarted was creative and intelligently written. Clues dropped early on and thought of as insignificant resurfaced in the most delightful way,
I received an early copy on NetGalley and this is my honest review.
I love that Russell is an inventor and encouraged by his friend Garrett who could have had a story all his own. Add into it a mystery that kept me wondering and I found myself thoroughly entertained as well as concerned with how everything was going to work out as it should,
This story was well-written and the characters were well developed. Selina was a force as was her friend Emma. If only more of the ton were like these young ladies, maybe they wouldn't be so insufferable. Speaking of insufferable, the villain and eventually how he was thwarted was creative and intelligently written. Clues dropped early on and thought of as insignificant resurfaced in the most delightful way,
I received an early copy on NetGalley and this is my honest review.
April 7, 2023
Watkins is a new to me author but seeing the cover of this book made me need to read it! I am a sucker for a regency romance so I had to read it. I loved both of the main characters, Russell and Selina. Both of them felt like they didn't fit into society for different reasons. Selina and her friends were my kind of people. True to themselves and fiercely loyal to each other. The scene at the ball was epic! Russell was unique in that he didn't inherit his title and he loved science probably more than anything. I enjoyed the historical details the author included which enlightened me to things I didn't know about before reading this book. The scenes with the unknown people kept me guessing for a while, I was definitely confused for a bit until I figured it out. I love Selina's father, he was a great character and he stood out enough that I needed to mention him here. If you are a regency fan, you will enjoy reading The Reluctant Baronet! I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 30, 2023
A reluctant baronet and a scarred heroine on her third season fall in love in this sweet and satisfying romance. The path to true love never did run smooth, especially when there are misunderstandings with two other couples! Sir Russell is a scientific hero who shines in his ingenuity and his lack of interest in society. Miss Selina Clifton is more than just her small pox scars, but must marry to save her home. A false announcement of an engagement nearly ruins her happiness, but quick-thinking and a bit of science saves the day. The author weaves fascinating period details into the story from smallpox inoculations to why hatters went mad (because of the chemicals on beaver hats). A uniquely delightful Regency read.
January 1, 2023
2 1/2 elevated to 3.
This is more historical fiction than historical romance. It also has mystery elements, but the romance takes second place. The main couple's relationship is one of three, with the three young ladies who are friends and the gentlemen they like.
There are a lot of historical details, some relating to the story more than others, which made some parts of the narrative a bit tedious. The mystery kept the story going and kept me interested in reading it.
Readers who like more historical details and social depiction than romance will be a good fit for this story.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
This is more historical fiction than historical romance. It also has mystery elements, but the romance takes second place. The main couple's relationship is one of three, with the three young ladies who are friends and the gentlemen they like.
There are a lot of historical details, some relating to the story more than others, which made some parts of the narrative a bit tedious. The mystery kept the story going and kept me interested in reading it.
Readers who like more historical details and social depiction than romance will be a good fit for this story.
I received a copy from the publisher via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
July 18, 2023
This book was just divine! I truly enjoyed all the events that brought our hero and heroine together. I was enamored with all the details of the time in the Regency Era! I rejoiced that she brought out the harder times of living in those years and yet the subtle beauty of the times shown through! It was well balanced and truly enjoyable. I loved all the the side characters as well! And she left no open ends! I loved that! The romance was lovely and we even had a couple different romances interwoven throughout! Loved it!
June 5, 2023
This was slightly more adventuresome than romantic, and it did feel like kind of a fresh approach within the Regency category of historical fiction. With its interesting and deft insertion of historical details, its mix-and-match heroes and heroines (shades of A Midsummer Night's Dream), and just a dash of mystery, it moved right along at a pretty quick clip. Nice to see another skilled author in this genre!
Thanks to Netgalley and Covenant Communications for this advance review copy!
Thanks to Netgalley and Covenant Communications for this advance review copy!
April 1, 2023
3.5. I like this new (to me) author. The book in different than most Regency novels — more historical fiction than historical romance.The author has done a lot of research into the time period and included well documented information that made the story more interesting than most novels set in the Regency period. IThe characters were well-developed and likable. I loved the narrator.
January 12, 2023
#TheReluctantBaronet #NetGalley
Three different love stories, one novel. A little difficult to wade into and be able to see who goes with whom, but worth it if you want a great set of intermingled stories.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
Three different love stories, one novel. A little difficult to wade into and be able to see who goes with whom, but worth it if you want a great set of intermingled stories.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
May 13, 2025
A clean, sweet regency romance with societal intrigue that I am still thinking about almost a year later. I inhaled this book. The audiobook was really good!
September 15, 2023
The story of Russell a man who becomes a Baronet, not if his own will but his friend who talks him into it. He has an interest in Chemistry. And of Selina who has been scarred by smallpox. She needs to marry and produce an heir quickly so she agrees to a courtship with a man who is in love with someone else. Then Russell and Selina meet and things take a turn.
This was a cute story! However the beginning is a little confusing, but after the confusion it is a great story. Russell is very caring, helpful, and blunt. Selina is outspoken at times, cares for her friends and is relived at Russell not caring about her scars. They are very cute together. I also liked all the side characters. Overall a good story. Clean read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This was a cute story! However the beginning is a little confusing, but after the confusion it is a great story. Russell is very caring, helpful, and blunt. Selina is outspoken at times, cares for her friends and is relived at Russell not caring about her scars. They are very cute together. I also liked all the side characters. Overall a good story. Clean read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
November 3, 2023
This book reminded me of a Charles Dickens book. It represented the upper and lower classes. The villains were awful. The heroes were worthy. And good overcomes evil in a miraculous twist of circumstances. This was quite the enjoyable read!
May 15, 2023
I wouldn't recommend it. Lots of things bothered me, but the two that did the most were the uncle's vision at the end (too cheesy and nicely wrapped up) and the chapters of simply "the younger brother" and "the older brother." The plot twist that involved those two didn't require such secrecy from the reader. Those vague chapters only angered me.
May 10, 2023
I liked how this wasn't a typical regency romance story. I have to admit things drug on a bit for me, I prob would have loved it as a short story or something but I see why they chose to drag it out. The side plot had me confused, I way misinterpreted the "clues". It was fun how the author brought science into things, though at times it seemed like the main plot but it was interesting. It did seem the author was pushing an agenda.
February 3, 2023
3.5⭐️ This was a fairly enjoyable read. Can’t go past a meet cute in a ballroom.
|Synopsis|
Sir Russell Parkinson, a Scottish chemist has been raised to the peerage and finds himself in the clutches of the ton. Until an encounter with the charming Selina. In an attempt to secure her family’s estate, she is required to marry and produce an heir. Although she battled smallpox, she finds most people distracted from her beauty due to her scars. Until she finds herself in a tangle between who she should marry and who she longs to marry.
|Thoughts|
Enjoyed a glimpse into how regency England celebrated Christmas & the Scottish Hogmanay.
Was invested in their relationship and enjoyed the third act where lots of action took place. It was a nice enough read but just felt like more interactions between Selina & Russell would have really made it a great read.
Russell is also a genuinely good man and continues to prove that throughout the book. I did enjoy his inventions and their connection to the story.
|Themes|
📚 regency romance
📚 forbidden love
📚Christmas Magic 🎄🎄🎄/5
📚 clean romance 🚫
🗓️Pub Date: 7 March 2023
“And then, in defiance of all social conventions, one eyelid closed in an unexpected, totally audacious wink!”
Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Warning:
There is a scene that describes the discovery of gruesome scene.
|Synopsis|
Sir Russell Parkinson, a Scottish chemist has been raised to the peerage and finds himself in the clutches of the ton. Until an encounter with the charming Selina. In an attempt to secure her family’s estate, she is required to marry and produce an heir. Although she battled smallpox, she finds most people distracted from her beauty due to her scars. Until she finds herself in a tangle between who she should marry and who she longs to marry.
|Thoughts|
Enjoyed a glimpse into how regency England celebrated Christmas & the Scottish Hogmanay.
Was invested in their relationship and enjoyed the third act where lots of action took place. It was a nice enough read but just felt like more interactions between Selina & Russell would have really made it a great read.
Russell is also a genuinely good man and continues to prove that throughout the book. I did enjoy his inventions and their connection to the story.
|Themes|
📚 regency romance
📚 forbidden love
📚Christmas Magic 🎄🎄🎄/5
📚 clean romance 🚫
🗓️Pub Date: 7 March 2023
“And then, in defiance of all social conventions, one eyelid closed in an unexpected, totally audacious wink!”
Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
Warning:
There is a scene that describes the discovery of gruesome scene.
April 8, 2023
The Reluctant Baronet is labeled as a "Regency Romance" but this Regency Romance felt more like a regular historical novel. The romance part was not the strongest part of the novel, even though the elements there were pretty good. It seemed that a lot was always going on in many different directions. At times it seemed kind of confusing to keep everyone and everything straight. There was also a strange plot line with two mystery men that didn't make sense until the very end.
Now some good things: There are many interesting historical facts from the time period around 1811 having to do with politics, medical knowledge, and social designs. I'm a history buff, so many things were fascinating to me. I feel that many people will like this novel. For me, I just wanted it to pick a lane and stay there. If you don't mind a book that drags at times but has some inspiring themes, some sweet, clean romance, and interesting historical and social facts, then you will enjoy reading The Reluctant Baronet.
Now some good things: There are many interesting historical facts from the time period around 1811 having to do with politics, medical knowledge, and social designs. I'm a history buff, so many things were fascinating to me. I feel that many people will like this novel. For me, I just wanted it to pick a lane and stay there. If you don't mind a book that drags at times but has some inspiring themes, some sweet, clean romance, and interesting historical and social facts, then you will enjoy reading The Reluctant Baronet.
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