What do you think?
Rate this book
Love's Academic #1
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love
Rival ornithologists hunt through England for a rare magical bird in this historical-fantasy rom-com reminiscent of Indiana Jones but with manners, tea, and helicopter parasols.
Beth Pickering is on the verge of finally capturing the rare deathwhistler bird when Professor Devon Lockley swoops in, capturing both her bird and her imagination like a villain. Albeit a handsome and charming villain, but that's beside the point. As someone highly educated in the ruthless discipline of ornithology, Beth knows trouble when she sees it, and she is determined to keep her distance from Devon.
For his part, Devon has never been more smitten than when he first set eyes on Professor Beth Pickering. She's so pretty, so polite, so capable of bringing down a fiery, deadly bird using only her wits. In other words, an angel. Devon understands he must not get close to her, however, since they're professional rivals.
When a competition to become Birder of the Year by capturing an endangered caladrius bird is announced, Beth and Devon are forced to team up to have any chance of winning. Now keeping their distance becomes a question of one bed or two. But they must take the risk, because fowl play is afoot, and they can't trust anyone else—for all may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology.
Beth Pickering is on the verge of finally capturing the rare deathwhistler bird when Professor Devon Lockley swoops in, capturing both her bird and her imagination like a villain. Albeit a handsome and charming villain, but that's beside the point. As someone highly educated in the ruthless discipline of ornithology, Beth knows trouble when she sees it, and she is determined to keep her distance from Devon.
For his part, Devon has never been more smitten than when he first set eyes on Professor Beth Pickering. She's so pretty, so polite, so capable of bringing down a fiery, deadly bird using only her wits. In other words, an angel. Devon understands he must not get close to her, however, since they're professional rivals.
When a competition to become Birder of the Year by capturing an endangered caladrius bird is announced, Beth and Devon are forced to team up to have any chance of winning. Now keeping their distance becomes a question of one bed or two. But they must take the risk, because fowl play is afoot, and they can't trust anyone else—for all may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology.
378 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 23, 2024
1448 people are currently reading
55673 people want to read
About the author
India Holton
12 books3,891 followersIndia lives in New Zealand, where she writes fantasy romcoms featuring unconventional women and men who adore them.
India's writing is fuelled by tea and thunderstorms.
India's writing is fuelled by tea and thunderstorms.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,044 reviews
August 2, 2024
I smiled beatifically at tomatoes in the grocery store. I burst out laughing as I drove wobbily down the street. I giggled uncontrollably as I stood in lines, strangers noting my amusement with polite bemusement. I fanned myself as my face grew alarmingly flushed walking through parking lots. All this, because I listened to this audiobook and enjoyed it so so much.
India Holton has infused her Victorian rival ornithologists romance with vigorous adventure, rapier wit, and an intoxicating blend of lust and tenderness. It's a little Fantastic Beasts + rugged Indiana Jones-style academic pursuits, all of it wrapped up in a dazzling storm of magic and helpless attraction.
Beth was the first person he'd met who truly spoke his language. Her presence made the world finally slide into place for him. She was beautiful, unconsciously sexy, and he was drawn to that, of course, but it was only a minor part of how he felt. His attraction to her was so intensely intellectual, it affected his very brain function.
and my favorite birding bit, aside from a passing mention of demon ducks:
She leaned closer, wanting to kiss the humor back into him, but something flashed in the night behind his shoulder, closer than a star, brighter than a fragment of moonlight. Beth stared, as the speck of light began to dance.
"What is that?" she breathed.
Opening his eyes, Devon looked only at her. He smiled. "That, darling, is my favorite bird."
Their physical attraction to each other is inexorably entwined with their mutual professional respect and their care for magical creatures, and their shy vulnerabilty in their feelings is lovely contrasted against their assured confidence in their knowledge of ornithology. This would make a splendid film, as the visuals of helicopter parasols and ice birds are so clear in my mind, and of course the author's ferociously intelligent (and punny) humor just makes the entire chase a delight.
So excited for book two!
4.5 stars
Audio Notes: It's no secret that I exhibit stalkery levels of smitten when it comes to Elizabeth Knowelden reading India Holton. I cannot imagine another voice actor so deftly handling the playful language, so much so that I turned down a chance to read the ARC months ago so that I could wait and listen to her read the story. Worth the wait, as it’s practically perfect in every way.
India Holton has infused her Victorian rival ornithologists romance with vigorous adventure, rapier wit, and an intoxicating blend of lust and tenderness. It's a little Fantastic Beasts + rugged Indiana Jones-style academic pursuits, all of it wrapped up in a dazzling storm of magic and helpless attraction.
Beth was the first person he'd met who truly spoke his language. Her presence made the world finally slide into place for him. She was beautiful, unconsciously sexy, and he was drawn to that, of course, but it was only a minor part of how he felt. His attraction to her was so intensely intellectual, it affected his very brain function.
and my favorite birding bit, aside from a passing mention of demon ducks:
She leaned closer, wanting to kiss the humor back into him, but something flashed in the night behind his shoulder, closer than a star, brighter than a fragment of moonlight. Beth stared, as the speck of light began to dance.
"What is that?" she breathed.
Opening his eyes, Devon looked only at her. He smiled. "That, darling, is my favorite bird."
Their physical attraction to each other is inexorably entwined with their mutual professional respect and their care for magical creatures, and their shy vulnerabilty in their feelings is lovely contrasted against their assured confidence in their knowledge of ornithology. This would make a splendid film, as the visuals of helicopter parasols and ice birds are so clear in my mind, and of course the author's ferociously intelligent (and punny) humor just makes the entire chase a delight.
So excited for book two!
4.5 stars
Audio Notes: It's no secret that I exhibit stalkery levels of smitten when it comes to Elizabeth Knowelden reading India Holton. I cannot imagine another voice actor so deftly handling the playful language, so much so that I turned down a chance to read the ARC months ago so that I could wait and listen to her read the story. Worth the wait, as it’s practically perfect in every way.
September 13, 2024
“All may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology. Cheating is practically one of our scientific principles. “
Ornithology: (noun) the scientific study of birds
I like birds as much as the next person, but I never imagined they could be this much fun!
The blurb describes this as a historical-fantasy rom-com set in 1890’s England with shades of Indiana Jones, as it involves a madcap dash by a group of competing ornithologists to be the first to safely deliver their version of the Holy Grail: a rare magical bird called a caladrius while avoiding both human and magical bird peril. The prize offered by the British Tourism Board and the International Ornithological Society? The coveted Birder of the Year title, 5,000 pounds and a tenureship for any professor who wins. However, as my opening quote suggests, when it comes to birding … no one plays fair!
Prim and proper Beth Pickering and roguish Devon Lockley are Ornithology professors at Oxford and Cambridge, respectively. They’re also rivals in this new competition, but someone needs to remind them of that, as they seem to spend as much time watching and trying to capture each other’s interest, as they do the magical bird at the center of the competition! When, in the course of events, they find themselves under attack by a succession of less than friendly birds, such as a Rabid Flesh-Eating Lapwing, Frostbird or Whopper Swan, they band together to stay out of harm’s way. Ironically, the birds aren’t their biggest worry, as it’s their fellow ornithologists and those behind the scenes who pose the most danger ... well, that and their own hormones!
As these two capture the attention of the media and the romantic imaginations of the public, will their relationship take flight or will the wings of their budding relationship be clipped? I can assure you that this story left my heart soaring! Beth and Devon are a couple I won’t soon forget. Beth’s hilarious mistranslations of French and comical politeness regardless of the situation had me giggling throughout, and she and Devon’s chemistry and banter was delightful. Side characters like pretentious Hippolyta Quirm, whose entertaining quotes begin each chapter, press agents Monsieurs Fettick and Flogg, the French fishermen and the sisters Fotheringhman were a hoot as well.
In the first of the Love’s Academic series, new-to-me author India Holton has written a book that’s so full of charm and witty humor that even the villains were fun to spend time with! Her prose is gorgeous, the world she’s created with ordinary humans using some extraordinary tools (example: helicopter parasols … how cool is that?!) and interacting with magical birds is so richly imagined that I would’ve enjoyed staying there even longer. I listened to this on audio while reading along, and the narration by Elizabeth Knowelden was stellar. This is a book that I would HIGHLY recommend listening to!
I don’t typically read historical romance or fantasy, so I give major props to Holton for writing a story that left me eager for the next in the series! Side note: Read the author’s note if you can.
★★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author India Holton for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s out now.
Ornithology: (noun) the scientific study of birds
I like birds as much as the next person, but I never imagined they could be this much fun!
The blurb describes this as a historical-fantasy rom-com set in 1890’s England with shades of Indiana Jones, as it involves a madcap dash by a group of competing ornithologists to be the first to safely deliver their version of the Holy Grail: a rare magical bird called a caladrius while avoiding both human and magical bird peril. The prize offered by the British Tourism Board and the International Ornithological Society? The coveted Birder of the Year title, 5,000 pounds and a tenureship for any professor who wins. However, as my opening quote suggests, when it comes to birding … no one plays fair!
Prim and proper Beth Pickering and roguish Devon Lockley are Ornithology professors at Oxford and Cambridge, respectively. They’re also rivals in this new competition, but someone needs to remind them of that, as they seem to spend as much time watching and trying to capture each other’s interest, as they do the magical bird at the center of the competition! When, in the course of events, they find themselves under attack by a succession of less than friendly birds, such as a Rabid Flesh-Eating Lapwing, Frostbird or Whopper Swan, they band together to stay out of harm’s way. Ironically, the birds aren’t their biggest worry, as it’s their fellow ornithologists and those behind the scenes who pose the most danger ... well, that and their own hormones!
As these two capture the attention of the media and the romantic imaginations of the public, will their relationship take flight or will the wings of their budding relationship be clipped? I can assure you that this story left my heart soaring! Beth and Devon are a couple I won’t soon forget. Beth’s hilarious mistranslations of French and comical politeness regardless of the situation had me giggling throughout, and she and Devon’s chemistry and banter was delightful. Side characters like pretentious Hippolyta Quirm, whose entertaining quotes begin each chapter, press agents Monsieurs Fettick and Flogg, the French fishermen and the sisters Fotheringhman were a hoot as well.
In the first of the Love’s Academic series, new-to-me author India Holton has written a book that’s so full of charm and witty humor that even the villains were fun to spend time with! Her prose is gorgeous, the world she’s created with ordinary humans using some extraordinary tools (example: helicopter parasols … how cool is that?!) and interacting with magical birds is so richly imagined that I would’ve enjoyed staying there even longer. I listened to this on audio while reading along, and the narration by Elizabeth Knowelden was stellar. This is a book that I would HIGHLY recommend listening to!
I don’t typically read historical romance or fantasy, so I give major props to Holton for writing a story that left me eager for the next in the series! Side note: Read the author’s note if you can.
★★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley and author India Holton for this digital ARC to honestly review. It’s out now.
October 9, 2025
*chef's kiss* a true delight!
April 7, 2024
two rival ornithologists become the victims of an elaborate marketing plan …. and suffer intense yearning, birding mishaps, and mixed variations of there was only one bed trope
everything about this was absurd in the best way and i loved it so much
beth and devon’s dynamic was just:
beth: i wonder if he likes me
devon: the sunlight glitters in her eyes and rises and sets with her smile
thank you to edelweiss for the arc!
Follow me on Instagram
everything about this was absurd in the best way and i loved it so much
beth and devon’s dynamic was just:
beth: i wonder if he likes me
devon: the sunlight glitters in her eyes and rises and sets with her smile
thank you to edelweiss for the arc!
Follow me on Instagram
June 29, 2025
“Why are you here?” she demanded.
He lifted his gaze, and as their eyes met again, it felt like coming home. Which was ridiculous, Beth told herself. She’d only known the man a short while. He was the opposite of home. He was an unmapped horizon, or a bar chart without category names along the x-axis. She’d been right to leave him in Canterbury, and thank God here he was—er, so she could leave him again, that is! She would push him away this very instant and march off down the corridor!
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love is a nerdy romance of two professors competing to find a rare magical bird, solve the mystery of its presence and win Birder of the Year; while finding romance also along the way, ironically deterred by the PRESS agents trying to orchestrate that very romance.
India Holton grows on me with every book she writes! The best part of her work is her humour filled writing, the puns as well as her take on tropes. The lead characters Beth and Devon were very relatable academics, and I enjoyed the nerdiness in this book. There was enough character development and hints of deeper traits without deterring the action and finding their own solution to the competition - its hilarious that in a story which actually gives a plausible reason for all the romance conducive coincidences, the clever and headstrong couple find their own way to romance. And not to forget the magic birds in this world, such a bonus!
I'm definitely going to pick up the next book in this series and look forward to more of Holton's work!
“Good grief,” she muttered. “Why do people have to people?”
🌟🌟🌟🌟
[One star for the premise and the whole book; One star for the characters; One star for the writing; Half a star for the story arc; Half a star for the world-building - Four stars in total].
He lifted his gaze, and as their eyes met again, it felt like coming home. Which was ridiculous, Beth told herself. She’d only known the man a short while. He was the opposite of home. He was an unmapped horizon, or a bar chart without category names along the x-axis. She’d been right to leave him in Canterbury, and thank God here he was—er, so she could leave him again, that is! She would push him away this very instant and march off down the corridor!
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love is a nerdy romance of two professors competing to find a rare magical bird, solve the mystery of its presence and win Birder of the Year; while finding romance also along the way, ironically deterred by the PRESS agents trying to orchestrate that very romance.
India Holton grows on me with every book she writes! The best part of her work is her humour filled writing, the puns as well as her take on tropes. The lead characters Beth and Devon were very relatable academics, and I enjoyed the nerdiness in this book. There was enough character development and hints of deeper traits without deterring the action and finding their own solution to the competition - its hilarious that in a story which actually gives a plausible reason for all the romance conducive coincidences, the clever and headstrong couple find their own way to romance. And not to forget the magic birds in this world, such a bonus!
I'm definitely going to pick up the next book in this series and look forward to more of Holton's work!
“Good grief,” she muttered. “Why do people have to people?”
🌟🌟🌟🌟
[One star for the premise and the whole book; One star for the characters; One star for the writing; Half a star for the story arc; Half a star for the world-building - Four stars in total].
January 3, 2025
This was absurd. I adored it.
This was one of my favorite fiction books of 2024!
Click here to hear more of my thoughts over on my Booktube channel, abookolive.
This was one of my favorite fiction books of 2024!
Click here to hear more of my thoughts over on my Booktube channel, abookolive.
April 17, 2024
✨A bird in the hand is worth two professors getting it on in a bush✨
TL;DR: Hmm the romance was great and Holton’s writing remains a national treasure, but I could honestly have cared less about the plot (sorry to the birds). While it’s not my favorite Holton novel, I have no egrets <3
✨
This book was fun and definitely classic India Holton™ bonkers, but I was just not as intrigued by the birds as I was by her pirates/witches/spies. Maybe it was because I’m terrible at picturing things in my head, but I was just like…what do you mean magical birds??? I felt like we got even less rules in this universe and my brain kinda hurt. My eyes were going a bit spiraly. I couldn’t really get lost in the world quite like I did in the last series.
Don’t get me wrong, I did enjoy the birds and the absurdity of it all, but I just wanted more romance and less plot (because even the plot didn’t have much plot…if that makes sense). The way Holton writes characters falling in love is by far my favorite thing about her books. Was there much romantic tension because this was some of the instaest insta love I’ve ever read? No, not really, yet I was SO CHARMED. They were the definition of romance. “Apologize to the lady for annoying her” was pure sex.
While I did get a bit bored of the bird chasing, I was so invested in the “publicity” subplot. Basically there were some ornithologist PR agents trying to drum up public interest in ornithology by heavily promoting the Romance of it all. They kept calling reporters and orchestrating only-one-bed scenarios, which was GREAT fun. It was an endearing amount of farcical and kept me giggling, kicking my feet, etc.
After evaluation, The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love is most similar to The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels. They both do a lot of work as intros to series (and absurd magical worlds), the romances were set up very similarly (rivals to lovers pretending to be enemies to lovers who spend half the book being friends to lovers), and the romance took a lesser role to the plot.
I also feel like book two is going to be my favorite of the series, the same way The League of Gentlewomen Witches stole my heart. The teaser for book two was somehow more interesting than this entire book. Like India Holton writing second chance???—former marriage of convenience, current (and estranged) marriage of inconvenience???—I am LIVING!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️.5/5
I received an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
TL;DR: Hmm the romance was great and Holton’s writing remains a national treasure, but I could honestly have cared less about the plot (sorry to the birds). While it’s not my favorite Holton novel, I have no egrets <3
✨
This book was fun and definitely classic India Holton™ bonkers, but I was just not as intrigued by the birds as I was by her pirates/witches/spies. Maybe it was because I’m terrible at picturing things in my head, but I was just like…what do you mean magical birds??? I felt like we got even less rules in this universe and my brain kinda hurt. My eyes were going a bit spiraly. I couldn’t really get lost in the world quite like I did in the last series.
Don’t get me wrong, I did enjoy the birds and the absurdity of it all, but I just wanted more romance and less plot (because even the plot didn’t have much plot…if that makes sense). The way Holton writes characters falling in love is by far my favorite thing about her books. Was there much romantic tension because this was some of the instaest insta love I’ve ever read? No, not really, yet I was SO CHARMED. They were the definition of romance. “Apologize to the lady for annoying her” was pure sex.
While I did get a bit bored of the bird chasing, I was so invested in the “publicity” subplot. Basically there were some ornithologist PR agents trying to drum up public interest in ornithology by heavily promoting the Romance of it all. They kept calling reporters and orchestrating only-one-bed scenarios, which was GREAT fun. It was an endearing amount of farcical and kept me giggling, kicking my feet, etc.
After evaluation, The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love is most similar to The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels. They both do a lot of work as intros to series (and absurd magical worlds), the romances were set up very similarly (rivals to lovers pretending to be enemies to lovers who spend half the book being friends to lovers), and the romance took a lesser role to the plot.
I also feel like book two is going to be my favorite of the series, the same way The League of Gentlewomen Witches stole my heart. The teaser for book two was somehow more interesting than this entire book. Like India Holton writing second chance???—former marriage of convenience, current (and estranged) marriage of inconvenience???—I am LIVING!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 🌶️.5/5
I received an eARC via NetGalley. All opinions are honest and my own.
dnf
July 16, 2024DNF 9%
This is just too silly and quirky for me. I can enjoy unserious fantasy sometimes but this was over the top even in the short amount that I read. Just not my taste.
This is just too silly and quirky for me. I can enjoy unserious fantasy sometimes but this was over the top even in the short amount that I read. Just not my taste.
August 15, 2024
Where was the rival aspect? These two were whipped for each other the moment they met.
I also could not find myself to care about the birds, I'm sorry.
I also could not find myself to care about the birds, I'm sorry.
May 12, 2024
"But I must warn you, there's a slight bed problem..."I've never before so strongly felt the author's glee emanating from every page-- rife with devious smiles and cackling laughter.
And just to get this out of the way: this is hands down the nerdiest romance I've read in my life. Peak "talk nerdy to me" energy.
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love is very much in the vein of Holton's debut series, resplendent with innuendos and puns (and also puns in basic French). This is additionally, probably, her most creative play on the "only one bed" trope out of the four novels I've now read from her. And oh man, do the farces of this romcom reach new farcical heights!!
It's truly a love letter to Romance readers and the nearly fourth-wall-breaking narrative element in this had me giggling constantly. Holton is incredibly self-aware and it's absolutely hilarious to read.
If you're looking for spice or the romance of the ages, you might look elsewhere. But if you'd like a laugh and a fun, goofy adventure with magical birds and kisses that feel like getting the right answer when called on in class-- this just might be for you! It was definitely for me.
"When the going gets tough, find a shortcut."
-- Birds Through a Sherry Glass, H.A. Quirm
Thank you to Berkley for granting me an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 10, 2024
This was IMPOSSIBLY cute. Two rival ornithologists who compete in a competition to find a rare magical bird in Victorian England and are set up by two publicists to fall in love in order to increase applications to Ornithology programs???? Everything about this was perfect.
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love is the first book in India Holton's new series and feels like a combination of the madcap humor of her Dangerous Damsels series and the STEM love perfection of Ali Hazelwood's The Love Hypothesis.
There's only one bed (in increasingly wild ways)! There's only one horse! He wants to know who hurt her! He demands a man apologize for annoying her! He is obsessed with her! She loves birds and science! There are magic birds and parasols that you can use as mini-helicopters. This was the Indiana Jones style STEM historical fantasy romance I had no idea I needed. I will be recommending this to everyone I know.
✅ MF Historical Romance set in Victorian England
✅ STEM romance with two rival professors who fall in love
✅ Magic birds & steampunk-style gadgets for bird-hunting
✅ One bed/one horse
✅ Who hurt you?
✅ Some spice with a whole lot of tension
✅ Perfection in a book
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - 5 stars, I loved it!
🙏🏻 Thank you to India Holton and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
📅 The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love will be out July 23rd, 2024 - and you should preorder it literally right now
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love is the first book in India Holton's new series and feels like a combination of the madcap humor of her Dangerous Damsels series and the STEM love perfection of Ali Hazelwood's The Love Hypothesis.
There's only one bed (in increasingly wild ways)! There's only one horse! He wants to know who hurt her! He demands a man apologize for annoying her! He is obsessed with her! She loves birds and science! There are magic birds and parasols that you can use as mini-helicopters. This was the Indiana Jones style STEM historical fantasy romance I had no idea I needed. I will be recommending this to everyone I know.
✅ MF Historical Romance set in Victorian England
✅ STEM romance with two rival professors who fall in love
✅ Magic birds & steampunk-style gadgets for bird-hunting
✅ One bed/one horse
✅ Who hurt you?
✅ Some spice with a whole lot of tension
✅ Perfection in a book
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - 5 stars, I loved it!
🙏🏻 Thank you to India Holton and Berkley Publishing Group for this ARC through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
📅 The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love will be out July 23rd, 2024 - and you should preorder it literally right now
February 7, 2025
This was delightful! A deeply unserious historical fantasy romance between rival ornithologists competing to capture a bird and falling in love along the way. Except the entire competition is a setup by a PR firm trying to increase enrollment in ornithology programs. This made me laugh out loud in public while listening, which should tell you something! Note that it's more or less fade to black, which I didn't mind. Thoroughly enjoyed it.
May 21, 2025
their special interest is MAGIC BIRDS and they get to share that TOGETHER while they get to be HOT & AUTISTIC together as SEXY ACADEMICS and if that’s not what life is for I don’t know what is !!!!!!!!!!!
July 8, 2024
I DNF around 15% of the way through. Fresh off reading and loving the Emily Wilde books, I had a lot of high hopes for this. I was hungry for a campy, whimsical, silly fantasy. For me, this book was trying too hard. There was a lot of creativity in the book, but it read like an author trying to write a script for a cartoon, down to dishes spinning when characters all rush out of a cafe. The sexual tension elements made this too weird of a combination of childhood cartoons and smut for me.
I think this could have been really fun had there been more tempering of the immaturity. Unfortunately, it read too much like a middle grade chapter book with sex for me to enjoy.
I think this could have been really fun had there been more tempering of the immaturity. Unfortunately, it read too much like a middle grade chapter book with sex for me to enjoy.
December 27, 2024
4.5
this was actually really good and it had me giggling so much, the romance ATE.
this was actually really good and it had me giggling so much, the romance ATE.
January 31, 2025
Pray for my husband. He’s not sick. I just wake him up with my book light. ☠️
It’s been a minute since a book made me laugh this much!! I have a digital ARC of @india.holton ‘s next book ‘The Geographer’s Map to Romance’ and I’m SO EXCITED TO START IT THIS WEEKEND.
It’s rare for me to find books that immediately made me laugh but #theornithologistsfieldguidetolove was SO cute and sweet.
Romance 🌶️ Notes:
- One of the best slow burns I’ve read in a REALLY long time.
- Some cracked door spice. (Basically means that you know it’s happened.. but without explicit descriptions, and there are no engorged anything 😂)
- It’s not ‘clean romance’… but pretty close. You could skip those few little sections and it wouldn’t be a big deal.
Scholarly humor at its FINEST. I love a good nerdy joke!! -- Also, a Women in STEM novel - which I’ve always been a major fan of. If you love shoptalking slightly nerdy things and want to self-insert into the sweetest little nerdy (aka surprisingly sexy) Professor romance - this is your book! 👏👏👏
**When I say the fantasy romance elements are light - I mean there’s no fantasy elements for the main characters. They’re world however is steeped in fun slightly more ‘evolved’ fantasy beasts and geographical regions! 💕
It’s been a minute since a book made me laugh this much!! I have a digital ARC of @india.holton ‘s next book ‘The Geographer’s Map to Romance’ and I’m SO EXCITED TO START IT THIS WEEKEND.
It’s rare for me to find books that immediately made me laugh but #theornithologistsfieldguidetolove was SO cute and sweet.
Romance 🌶️ Notes:
- One of the best slow burns I’ve read in a REALLY long time.
- Some cracked door spice. (Basically means that you know it’s happened.. but without explicit descriptions, and there are no engorged anything 😂)
- It’s not ‘clean romance’… but pretty close. You could skip those few little sections and it wouldn’t be a big deal.
Scholarly humor at its FINEST. I love a good nerdy joke!! -- Also, a Women in STEM novel - which I’ve always been a major fan of. If you love shoptalking slightly nerdy things and want to self-insert into the sweetest little nerdy (aka surprisingly sexy) Professor romance - this is your book! 👏👏👏
**When I say the fantasy romance elements are light - I mean there’s no fantasy elements for the main characters. They’re world however is steeped in fun slightly more ‘evolved’ fantasy beasts and geographical regions! 💕
April 21, 2024
This book has many things that should make me love it. Romance, fantasy, Victorian times, Oxford, birds, MAGICAL birds, ornithologists. But I didn’t love it. I found the story repetitive and boring. I was never invested in Beth or Devon or their relationship. There is so much silliness – SO MUCH silliness – that it is truly hard to take the story seriously. There’s madcap and then there’s so much absurdity that it’s really hard to fall into the story and stay there. At least for me.
At one point they are naked and about to have sex and Devon asks, “do you consent?” Really? After making out and taking off each other’s clothes “I consent” literally needs to be said? OK, never mind, maybe young people having sex today really expect the other person to say “I consent” during the throes of passion. I guess this is supposed to prove what a super nice and trustworthy guy Devon is, but I found it awkward and unrealistic. (Oh, and how very very helpful and convenient that he is sterile and manages to tell Beth before they do the deed.)
In the Acknowledgments, the author says, “While every effort was made to accurately depict the various details of life in 1890, I took considerable artistic licence with the big picture”. You think? Like having an educated gentleman go around using the f word in front of a gentlewoman? (That word felt so out of place in this book.)
Some of the magical creatures seriously reminded me of certain Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Especially the big climax with the magical caladrius flying and filling everyone with magic, healing, and love.
I think it may be time to stop reading India Holton. I read the first Dangerous Damsels and gave it three stars as well. (At least this book was not nonstop nonsense. There is plenty of nonsense, but it’s a little more contained.) She just really is not my cup of tea.
I read an advance reader copy of The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love from Netgalley.
At one point they are naked and about to have sex and Devon asks, “do you consent?” Really? After making out and taking off each other’s clothes “I consent” literally needs to be said? OK, never mind, maybe young people having sex today really expect the other person to say “I consent” during the throes of passion. I guess this is supposed to prove what a super nice and trustworthy guy Devon is, but I found it awkward and unrealistic. (Oh, and how very very helpful and convenient that he is sterile and manages to tell Beth before they do the deed.)
In the Acknowledgments, the author says, “While every effort was made to accurately depict the various details of life in 1890, I took considerable artistic licence with the big picture”. You think? Like having an educated gentleman go around using the f word in front of a gentlewoman? (That word felt so out of place in this book.)
Some of the magical creatures seriously reminded me of certain Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. Especially the big climax with the magical caladrius flying and filling everyone with magic, healing, and love.
I think it may be time to stop reading India Holton. I read the first Dangerous Damsels and gave it three stars as well. (At least this book was not nonstop nonsense. There is plenty of nonsense, but it’s a little more contained.) She just really is not my cup of tea.
I read an advance reader copy of The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love from Netgalley.
August 16, 2025
“All may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology. Cheating is practically one of our scientific principles.”
this was SO MUCH fun and utterly charming. i was already delighted reading the dangerous damsels series, but holton def upped her game w this one.
the wes anderson comparison is only further emphasized w the fantastical, magic birds in this and the romance was sooooo swoony and sweet! i adore beth and devon.
“Villain,” she said lightly.
“Angel,” he retorted.”
“He wanted to undress her brain, stroke her perspective, make her gasp out the most fascinating theory she hid from all other men. He also wanted to kiss the hell out of her, but that went without saying.”
“Just be aware,” he whispered, “that as soon as I can, I’m going to kiss you until your corset falls off.”
i am RUNNING to read more!!
this was SO MUCH fun and utterly charming. i was already delighted reading the dangerous damsels series, but holton def upped her game w this one.
the wes anderson comparison is only further emphasized w the fantastical, magic birds in this and the romance was sooooo swoony and sweet! i adore beth and devon.
“Villain,” she said lightly.
“Angel,” he retorted.”
“He wanted to undress her brain, stroke her perspective, make her gasp out the most fascinating theory she hid from all other men. He also wanted to kiss the hell out of her, but that went without saying.”
“Just be aware,” he whispered, “that as soon as I can, I’m going to kiss you until your corset falls off.”
i am RUNNING to read more!!
November 9, 2025
The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love
⤷ ⭑⭑⭑.𝟮𝟱
𓏲⋆🪶.* As the youngest and only female Ornithology professor at Oxford, Beth Pickering has her eyes set on capturing the rare and endangered bird known as the Caladrius, which has reportedly been sighted in London. In addition to being named 'Birder of the Year,' Beth has an even more valuable goal in mind—gaining tenure. However, her plans take an unexpected turn when she reluctantly teams up with her professional rival, Cambridge professor, Devon Lockley, as the press is hot on their heels and foul play ensues.
I picked this up after reading ''The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels', and I just needed more of India Holton's writing. Although I had some hesitation about starting another series, I already owned book two and didn’t want to jump straight into it without reading the first book.
Thankfully, we still have the Holton-esque silliness, introduction of exotic magical birds, and a hilarious yet whimsical love affair in this one.
Now, what you need to understand about India Holton is that she writes romance so beautifully, in addition to her already impeccable witty banter throughout the book. However, with this one, I felt their relationship progressed too quickly, especially given that they met just a month prior at the beginning of the book, which threw me off.
The relationship also became overly sexual because they kept thinking about each other's physical attributes and expressed a desire to kiss in nearly every chapter. I liked the quieter moments more especially whenever they engaged in conversations about each other's intelligence. It's unfortunate because the yearning and passion are evident, but I just couldn't fully immerse myself in the story.
Additionally, I appreciated how the story balanced serious issues with humor. It’s refreshing to see feminist themes written into a lighthearted story, making the exploration of societal expectations and workplace misogyny engaging. Beth's journey of self-worth, with the help of Devon, really highlighted the importance of encouragement and solidarity in overcoming her personal problems.
Despite expecting the bizarre plot where we didn't know what happened next, I think it just got too repetitive midway: they'd meet an opponent, get robbed or escape, and find an inn with a single bedor seven.
I definitely recommend picking this up and also exploring her previous works, as that’s what I plan to do next. We get a glimpse of the sequel's main male character, Gabriel,who I found much more intriguing. Because of this, I'm eager to start the next book. 🏃🏻♀️🏃🏻♀️🏃🏻♀️
More titles by India Holton: ✶⋆.°
✶ The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🦢˚
pre-read : ofc i just had to continue my India Holton journey!! 🪽
⤷ ⭑⭑⭑.𝟮𝟱
❝ All may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology. Cheating is practically one of our scientific principles. ❞ ༉‧₊˚.
𓏲⋆🪶.* As the youngest and only female Ornithology professor at Oxford, Beth Pickering has her eyes set on capturing the rare and endangered bird known as the Caladrius, which has reportedly been sighted in London. In addition to being named 'Birder of the Year,' Beth has an even more valuable goal in mind—gaining tenure. However, her plans take an unexpected turn when she reluctantly teams up with her professional rival, Cambridge professor, Devon Lockley, as the press is hot on their heels and foul play ensues.
I picked this up after reading ''The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels', and I just needed more of India Holton's writing. Although I had some hesitation about starting another series, I already owned book two and didn’t want to jump straight into it without reading the first book.
Thankfully, we still have the Holton-esque silliness, introduction of exotic magical birds, and a hilarious yet whimsical love affair in this one.
❝ Ask me and I’ll tell you. Say my name and I’ll give you all you want. ❞
Now, what you need to understand about India Holton is that she writes romance so beautifully, in addition to her already impeccable witty banter throughout the book. However, with this one, I felt their relationship progressed too quickly, especially given that they met just a month prior at the beginning of the book, which threw me off.
The relationship also became overly sexual because they kept thinking about each other's physical attributes and expressed a desire to kiss in nearly every chapter. I liked the quieter moments more especially whenever they engaged in conversations about each other's intelligence. It's unfortunate because the yearning and passion are evident, but I just couldn't fully immerse myself in the story.
“Why is Gladstone getting you to do an inventory for him? That’s work for a secretary, not a professor.”
Her expression went utterly blank for a moment. Then she blinked, and blushed, and looked everywhere but at him, muttering something about “diligence” and “happy to help” and quite possibly “better than washing dishes.”
Additionally, I appreciated how the story balanced serious issues with humor. It’s refreshing to see feminist themes written into a lighthearted story, making the exploration of societal expectations and workplace misogyny engaging. Beth's journey of self-worth, with the help of Devon, really highlighted the importance of encouragement and solidarity in overcoming her personal problems.
❝ Your eyes are like a sky spun by wild and beautiful wings, ❞ ʚଓ
Despite expecting the bizarre plot where we didn't know what happened next, I think it just got too repetitive midway: they'd meet an opponent, get robbed or escape, and find an inn with a single bed
I definitely recommend picking this up and also exploring her previous works, as that’s what I plan to do next. We get a glimpse of the sequel's main male character, Gabriel,
❝ It was the lightest of kisses, but it reached deep inside her to stroke some exquisitely sensitive nerve and illuminate her inner darkness like the magical flash of some bird whose name she could not even begin to remember in that moment. She could barely remember her own. ❞ 𓇢𓆸
More titles by India Holton: ✶⋆.°
✶ The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels
˚˖𓍢ִ໋🦢˚
pre-read : ofc i just had to continue my India Holton journey!! 🪽
November 29, 2025
3.5/5
the romance? 10/10 but the plot? 3/10
I absolutely loved the romance between our characters 😭 I could not. stop. smiling over how cute they were!! the most wholesome adorable bird lovers I’ve ever read about 🥹
but the plot? I could have done without so much focus on the birds IM SORRY 😭 it just felt that at some point we were just going in circles and it was getting old. I don’t think the bird competition plot was complicated enough to warrant so much focus on it so therefore it lost my interest at times.
india holton knows how to write a damn good romance tho that’s for sure 🙂↔️
the romance? 10/10 but the plot? 3/10
I absolutely loved the romance between our characters 😭 I could not. stop. smiling over how cute they were!! the most wholesome adorable bird lovers I’ve ever read about 🥹
but the plot? I could have done without so much focus on the birds IM SORRY 😭 it just felt that at some point we were just going in circles and it was getting old. I don’t think the bird competition plot was complicated enough to warrant so much focus on it so therefore it lost my interest at times.
india holton knows how to write a damn good romance tho that’s for sure 🙂↔️
December 1, 2024
This was adorable! I enjoyed this more then I thought I would.
When the International Ornithological Society (IOS) makes a competition to find the magical, endangered caladrius bird, it sets rival ornithologists Professor Beth Pickering & Professor Devon Lockley against each other.
Who will be “Birder of the Year”, win a cash prize, and get tenure in their profession?!
The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love has magical birds that I wish existed in real life.
In fact, I was so impressed with the birds India Holton created that I felt like being a birder by the end of the book!
I loved the main characters and the plot is an entertaining and zany adventure!
The book felt like an Indiana Jones movie while racing around England looking for the caladrius bird and avoiding all the booby traps set by rivals.
I plan on continuing with the series and hope the rest of the books are just as funny, entertaining and action packed as this first addition turned out to be!
When the International Ornithological Society (IOS) makes a competition to find the magical, endangered caladrius bird, it sets rival ornithologists Professor Beth Pickering & Professor Devon Lockley against each other.
Who will be “Birder of the Year”, win a cash prize, and get tenure in their profession?!
The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love has magical birds that I wish existed in real life.
In fact, I was so impressed with the birds India Holton created that I felt like being a birder by the end of the book!
I loved the main characters and the plot is an entertaining and zany adventure!
The book felt like an Indiana Jones movie while racing around England looking for the caladrius bird and avoiding all the booby traps set by rivals.
I plan on continuing with the series and hope the rest of the books are just as funny, entertaining and action packed as this first addition turned out to be!
October 3, 2024
Well this was a bummer.
The prose is so dense - I’m talking jokes layered inside jokes, metaphors of metaphors - that the characters and plot get entirely lost. Having read and loved the Dangerous Damsels series by Holton, I’m down for some whimsy! Silliness? Sign me up! Bird puns? Sure, let’s do it. But holy hell, this was intense. Add the magical birds, academic angle and the story and its characters felt suffocated.
I found this book a chore to get through and nearly DNF’d multiple times. Unlikely to continue this series but I do recommend Holton’s Dangerous Damsel series.
The prose is so dense - I’m talking jokes layered inside jokes, metaphors of metaphors - that the characters and plot get entirely lost. Having read and loved the Dangerous Damsels series by Holton, I’m down for some whimsy! Silliness? Sign me up! Bird puns? Sure, let’s do it. But holy hell, this was intense. Add the magical birds, academic angle and the story and its characters felt suffocated.
I found this book a chore to get through and nearly DNF’d multiple times. Unlikely to continue this series but I do recommend Holton’s Dangerous Damsel series.
July 14, 2024
silly, ridiculous, enchanting, romantic, perfect little book i will love you forever
September 12, 2024
4.5 Madcap, Dastardly Stars!!!
This book. This book! Utterly unputdownable and reminiscent of Rowling.
From the very first page India Holton's writing just sucks you in. It's so lush and so fluid and her characters are so sharp and authentic, that you want to collect them all and make them your friends. Even the badies. And the action is insane. It's part HP world with it's deadly, fantastical, magical beasts and part Indiana Jones with it horse stealing, lasso wielding and helicopter parasol escapes.
Beth, our fmc, tells the story in single first pov and it's such a treat to experience her mind and how she navigates her male dominated world and societal expectations (Victorian era setting) while remaining authentic to herself. I love that she's strong and bright and yet she's vulnerable. The author did such a wonderful job of making Beth well rounded and real. Plus she has some of the best dialogue in the novel.
The book is teaming with robust characters who add to the vibrant tapestry of this story. From angry French sailors to crafty inn keepers and shifty press agents to the dark seedy characters of the ornithological world, this story moves with such speed and force, and with such interesting characters, that it's nearly impossible to find a lull during which to take a break from it. Every element, every character, adds just the right touch, adds just the right color to the tapestry that when you've reached a chapter's end, the story practically glows on the page and you find yourself reaching, desperate to begin the next.
The romance in this book was perfect. It never overwhelmed Beth's story, it never altered her in any way, in fact, as she discovers herself amidst the budding relationship with Devon, it actually makes her more relatable. Devon, who is her equal and, despite first appearances, is as vulnerable as Beth adds the perfect level of steam to the novel. As these to team up together to, at first, find the magical Caladria bird and win Birder of the Year, which then becomes a rescue mission, these two characters are nearly thwarted at every turn. It's one madcap adventure after another as these characters traverse England. These adventures solidify the relationship and bond these two together, and test the steadfastness of their commitment to each other, as well as their integrity amongst a sea of unscrupulous characters.
In the end, I felt so very satisfied with all the elements in the novel. The love story left both characters firmly rooted in their pursuits while still allowing them to blend their lives. All of the story arcs were tied up perfectly and I felt wholly fulfilled. Now I have to go back to the beginning of the series and start there. Though this is listed as Love's Academic #1 it's also listed as book #4 in the Dangerous Damsels series. I'm not complaining. I'd go back and read these irrespective. But I like things to be in order so this bore mentioning.
Anyway, READ THIS NOW!!! It's such an amazing novel and I'm excited to jump back into that world.
Side note: I alternated between the Kindle and audiobook which was so well narrated that it was much like watching a movie in your mind. I highly recommend if you're into audiobooks.
This book. This book! Utterly unputdownable and reminiscent of Rowling.
From the very first page India Holton's writing just sucks you in. It's so lush and so fluid and her characters are so sharp and authentic, that you want to collect them all and make them your friends. Even the badies. And the action is insane. It's part HP world with it's deadly, fantastical, magical beasts and part Indiana Jones with it horse stealing, lasso wielding and helicopter parasol escapes.
Beth, our fmc, tells the story in single first pov and it's such a treat to experience her mind and how she navigates her male dominated world and societal expectations (Victorian era setting) while remaining authentic to herself. I love that she's strong and bright and yet she's vulnerable. The author did such a wonderful job of making Beth well rounded and real. Plus she has some of the best dialogue in the novel.
The book is teaming with robust characters who add to the vibrant tapestry of this story. From angry French sailors to crafty inn keepers and shifty press agents to the dark seedy characters of the ornithological world, this story moves with such speed and force, and with such interesting characters, that it's nearly impossible to find a lull during which to take a break from it. Every element, every character, adds just the right touch, adds just the right color to the tapestry that when you've reached a chapter's end, the story practically glows on the page and you find yourself reaching, desperate to begin the next.
The romance in this book was perfect. It never overwhelmed Beth's story, it never altered her in any way, in fact, as she discovers herself amidst the budding relationship with Devon, it actually makes her more relatable. Devon, who is her equal and, despite first appearances, is as vulnerable as Beth adds the perfect level of steam to the novel. As these to team up together to, at first, find the magical Caladria bird and win Birder of the Year, which then becomes a rescue mission, these two characters are nearly thwarted at every turn. It's one madcap adventure after another as these characters traverse England. These adventures solidify the relationship and bond these two together, and test the steadfastness of their commitment to each other, as well as their integrity amongst a sea of unscrupulous characters.
In the end, I felt so very satisfied with all the elements in the novel. The love story left both characters firmly rooted in their pursuits while still allowing them to blend their lives. All of the story arcs were tied up perfectly and I felt wholly fulfilled. Now I have to go back to the beginning of the series and start there. Though this is listed as Love's Academic #1 it's also listed as book #4 in the Dangerous Damsels series. I'm not complaining. I'd go back and read these irrespective. But I like things to be in order so this bore mentioning.
Anyway, READ THIS NOW!!! It's such an amazing novel and I'm excited to jump back into that world.
Side note: I alternated between the Kindle and audiobook which was so well narrated that it was much like watching a movie in your mind. I highly recommend if you're into audiobooks.
September 8, 2024
Listened to this on audio and highly recommend it. The story covers an ornithology competition in Victorian England. But these are magical birds and competition is ferocious! It’s a tiny bit twee but done so well. Frequently hilarious. Beth is the quintessential polite and proper British female. Always. Her rival and love interest is also British but was educated in (gasp) the US. Good fun.
June 30, 2025
June 2025 reread
really appreciated this time around how Austen-esque Holton’s writing style is. sometimes comp titles for books will say like “x meets Austen” and they just mean it has romance and is set in the 19th century, but India Holton’s prose is genuinely reflective of Austen’s style—the clever asides from an omniscient narrator, the free indirect discourse played for laughs every time—and it makes her prose so vivid and clever and a clear descendant of Austen and of course I am obsessed. also this book still makes me giggle out loud even though I’ve literally read it four times already and also I love Beth and Devon and it’s basically my perfect comfort novel????
——————
September 2024 reread
utterly ridiculous and whimsical and cozy. still obsessed.
––––––
thank you thank you thank you to NetGalley for the eARC
⭐️=5 | 😘=5 | 🤬=3.25 | ⚔️=1 | 18
summary: two rival ornithology professors in 1890s Britain embark on a road trip, unwillingly collaborating to find a rare bird. tenure (and love) is at stake!!!!
thoughts: well. gosh. this was delightful. so clever and witty and romantic and silly and unserious and also very emotional and gorgeous?? so fun????? like i was constantly giggling and having the literal time of my life?? cozy and nerdy and unbelievably cute—historical romantasy is such an underrated and relatively unexplored genre. i shall devour however many installments this series includes and provide India Holton with a kidney (one of mine, to be clear) should she require it.
really appreciated this time around how Austen-esque Holton’s writing style is. sometimes comp titles for books will say like “x meets Austen” and they just mean it has romance and is set in the 19th century, but India Holton’s prose is genuinely reflective of Austen’s style—the clever asides from an omniscient narrator, the free indirect discourse played for laughs every time—and it makes her prose so vivid and clever and a clear descendant of Austen and of course I am obsessed. also this book still makes me giggle out loud even though I’ve literally read it four times already and also I love Beth and Devon and it’s basically my perfect comfort novel????
——————
September 2024 reread
utterly ridiculous and whimsical and cozy. still obsessed.
––––––
thank you thank you thank you to NetGalley for the eARC
⭐️=5 | 😘=5 | 🤬=3.25 | ⚔️=1 | 18
summary: two rival ornithology professors in 1890s Britain embark on a road trip, unwillingly collaborating to find a rare bird. tenure (and love) is at stake!!!!
thoughts: well. gosh. this was delightful. so clever and witty and romantic and silly and unserious and also very emotional and gorgeous?? so fun????? like i was constantly giggling and having the literal time of my life?? cozy and nerdy and unbelievably cute—historical romantasy is such an underrated and relatively unexplored genre. i shall devour however many installments this series includes and provide India Holton with a kidney (one of mine, to be clear) should she require it.
July 31, 2024
The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love is a lighthearted, humorous historical fantasy romp with scintillating chemistry between its two leads. I really enjoyed them as a couple and their connection got me in the feels. They fit together so well and make a couple to root for. India Horton’s prose is bright and punny, with tons of imagination as various magical birds with specific powers are an essential part of the storyline. I loved the teasing academic tone and the zany humor. I feel like this one isn't for readers who don't like a bit of silliness and farcical British humor. This is a fun, refreshing romance with distinct and likable leads for readers who like a healthy dose of fantasy and adventure in their historical romance. I like India Horton's writing style. I'll definitely read more of her books!
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com
Advanced Review Copy provided by Netgalley courtesy of Berkley Publishing Group.
PS. I totally pictured Henry Cavill as Devin!
Possibly Olivia Cooke as Beth?
Reviewed for Affaire de Coeur Magazine. http://affairedecoeur.com
Advanced Review Copy provided by Netgalley courtesy of Berkley Publishing Group.
PS. I totally pictured Henry Cavill as Devin!
Possibly Olivia Cooke as Beth?
September 15, 2024
I'm sorry, I've made it halfway through but I just can't do it anymore.
The story and the characters have about the same depth as a puddle after a long and and hot summer
The story and the characters have about the same depth as a puddle after a long and and hot summer
August 4, 2024
dnf @ 45%
...absolutely ridiculous. How did this even get published? This felt like reading a parody.
...absolutely ridiculous. How did this even get published? This felt like reading a parody.
February 17, 2025
Bridgerton vibes meets fantastical, magical birds and academic rivals to lovers in a competition. For a rare bird, not their hearts… right?
India Holton is an expert at making you giggle, even if you have never before let such a sound escape from your mouth.
Beth is your introverted good girl. Kind, compassionate, intelligent, a female academic - THE DRAMA.
Devon is the handsome young professor, the industry’s darling - SWOON.
They get together due to the conniving of the paper to create a romance for the delight of the public - THE SCANDAL.
“I know what I’m talking about. People aren’t interested in romance. They want sober, informative reports that use complex words and make them feel stupid, thereby inspiring them to seek higher education.”
A moment of silence followed this speech as Messrs. Fettick and Flogg tried to decide if it was satire.
Expect Holton to take every romance troupe and satire the heck out of it in a snarky Victorian, proper voice.
This is a story you should listen to via audiobook purely for the enjoyment of the narrator’s voices and accents, the snappy, witty dialogue, and the hilarious stream of consciousness inner dialogue.
Quirky, goofy, silly, fun.
Bookstagram
India Holton is an expert at making you giggle, even if you have never before let such a sound escape from your mouth.
Beth is your introverted good girl. Kind, compassionate, intelligent, a female academic - THE DRAMA.
Devon is the handsome young professor, the industry’s darling - SWOON.
They get together due to the conniving of the paper to create a romance for the delight of the public - THE SCANDAL.
“I know what I’m talking about. People aren’t interested in romance. They want sober, informative reports that use complex words and make them feel stupid, thereby inspiring them to seek higher education.”
A moment of silence followed this speech as Messrs. Fettick and Flogg tried to decide if it was satire.
Expect Holton to take every romance troupe and satire the heck out of it in a snarky Victorian, proper voice.
This is a story you should listen to via audiobook purely for the enjoyment of the narrator’s voices and accents, the snappy, witty dialogue, and the hilarious stream of consciousness inner dialogue.
Quirky, goofy, silly, fun.
Bookstagram
Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,044 reviews