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A Lady's Fortune
In Regency England, twenty-seven-year-old Leonora Appleby is considered by many – herself included – to be beyond her most eligible marrying years. With her childhood home, Hasterleigh Manor, soon to be taken over by the heir to the land, George Lockwood, Leonora has happily resigned herself to a quiet life as a country Miss.
But life has a way of springing surprises and the return of the brooding war hero Earl Rokeby, presumed dead on the French battlefields, to the magnificent neighbouring Rokeby Abbey has the village atwitter with speculation. Earl Rokeby has returned, scarred in mind and body, with news for Leonora’s best friend Charlotte Blythe – news that will change everything.
Now Charlotte and Leonora must travel to Town for the Season and take their futures and fate into their own hands in the whirl of balls, parties and gossip. But will either of them return to Hasterleigh with a husband and a fortune, and what other secrets does the devastatingly dashing Alistair Rokeby have up his silken sleeves…
Sunday Times bestselling author Jane Dunn brings the Regency period irresistibly to life. Perfect for fans of Jane Austen, Janice Hadlow, Gill Hornby, and anyone with a Bridgerton-shaped hole in their lives.
But life has a way of springing surprises and the return of the brooding war hero Earl Rokeby, presumed dead on the French battlefields, to the magnificent neighbouring Rokeby Abbey has the village atwitter with speculation. Earl Rokeby has returned, scarred in mind and body, with news for Leonora’s best friend Charlotte Blythe – news that will change everything.
Now Charlotte and Leonora must travel to Town for the Season and take their futures and fate into their own hands in the whirl of balls, parties and gossip. But will either of them return to Hasterleigh with a husband and a fortune, and what other secrets does the devastatingly dashing Alistair Rokeby have up his silken sleeves…
Sunday Times bestselling author Jane Dunn brings the Regency period irresistibly to life. Perfect for fans of Jane Austen, Janice Hadlow, Gill Hornby, and anyone with a Bridgerton-shaped hole in their lives.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 5, 2024
436 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
About the author
Jane Dunn
32 books144 followersJane Dunn is a leading biographer, the author of Moon in Eclipse: A Life of Mary Shelley, A Very Close Conspiracy: Vanessa Bell and Virginia Wolf, and Antonia White: A Life. Elizabeth and Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens was published in the spring of 2003 and spent seven weeks in the top ten of the Sunday Times bestseller list. A fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, Dunn lives near Bath with her husband, the linguist and writer Nicholas Ostler. Her most recent book is Read My Heart.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
August 12, 2024
3.5 stars… this was a really solid book for the first 70% or so - but the final 30% really went downhill. I absolutely HATED the twist, and I didn’t like any of the 3rd act drama. It was all very… obvious and frustrating. I hated that the women needed constant rescuing by the men. The main heroine (there are two couples in this story) was written as a strong and independent woman, I LOVED HER at the beginning. Unfortunately, by the end, she was making all kinds of bad decisions and then having to apologize for them.
It was a bummer that this story took such a shitty turn because the writing is really excellent overall.I might try another book by this author and hope that the ending isn’t as frustrating. 🤞 I just realized that this is actually my second book by this author and I hated the first, so I’m officially done. I can’t trust her to have good judgement when it comes to romance.
Safe (mostly)
This has one FTB scene, nothing graphic, just kissing on page
Virgin heroine
Hero seems to have been a manwhore in the past but it’s never fully confirmed, he’s just called wild a lot
There is a big secret revealed that may bother some of my safety friends, message me if you want the spoiler.
No real OM drama
Plenty of OW drama but it all comes to nothing and the hero doesn’t seem to be with any other women during this book.
It was a bummer that this story took such a shitty turn because the writing is really excellent overall.
Safe (mostly)
This has one FTB scene, nothing graphic, just kissing on page
Virgin heroine
Hero seems to have been a manwhore in the past but it’s never fully confirmed, he’s just called wild a lot
There is a big secret revealed that may bother some of my safety friends, message me if you want the spoiler.
No real OM drama
Plenty of OW drama but it all comes to nothing and the hero doesn’t seem to be with any other women during this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2024
This lovely tale engages the reader with two delightful romances marked by wit, charm and compelling characters. The author also brings the Regency era to vivid life through her fine literary brushstrokes and keen understanding of the historical period. A gem!
July 20, 2024
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I love that Jane Dunn has pivoted from scholarly biographies to Regency romance novels and, judging from the author's note at the back, she is loving it, too, as she absolutely should. I have to say that I didn't love this novel as much as some of her others. As ever, her attention to historical detail was there, which is always a lovely surprise in historical romance novels. Her characters could have been really fascinating, but I have to say it always felt as though we were held at arm's length from many of them and others were introduced far too rapidly, making them no more than lovable at best. It is slightly spicier than some of her earlier novels, but still very much closed door, if that makes a difference to you. The plot was also interesting and explored underrepresented areas of Regency society, such as inheritance, illegitimacy, spinsterhood, and the physical and mental scars of those returning from the Napoleonic Wars. In all of those areas, however, I also felt that we didn't get quite enough. The plot was very slow to start, but then wrapped up very quickly by the end. Leonora was also a contradictory heroine; seemingly sensible, but prone to defensive, passionate outbursts that completely contradicted everything she was feeling. I'm glad I read it, though, and look forward to seeing what else Dunn has in store.
I love that Jane Dunn has pivoted from scholarly biographies to Regency romance novels and, judging from the author's note at the back, she is loving it, too, as she absolutely should. I have to say that I didn't love this novel as much as some of her others. As ever, her attention to historical detail was there, which is always a lovely surprise in historical romance novels. Her characters could have been really fascinating, but I have to say it always felt as though we were held at arm's length from many of them and others were introduced far too rapidly, making them no more than lovable at best. It is slightly spicier than some of her earlier novels, but still very much closed door, if that makes a difference to you. The plot was also interesting and explored underrepresented areas of Regency society, such as inheritance, illegitimacy, spinsterhood, and the physical and mental scars of those returning from the Napoleonic Wars. In all of those areas, however, I also felt that we didn't get quite enough. The plot was very slow to start, but then wrapped up very quickly by the end. Leonora was also a contradictory heroine; seemingly sensible, but prone to defensive, passionate outbursts that completely contradicted everything she was feeling. I'm glad I read it, though, and look forward to seeing what else Dunn has in store.
June 20, 2024
5 stars
I really enjoyed this book. A clean romance in the mode of Heyer.
Loeonora is about to move out of her home because her father's heir is coming to claim the manor. He is a lovely man, very reasonable and understanding of her situation and how hard Nora has worked to keep the estate in good working order. Mr Lockwood's step father is a well thought of follower of fashion in London and George is relieved that he can dress how he likes in the country. Nora's got a Nanny that she loves and who she intents to take to the Lodge when she moves. The next estate is owned by an Earl. One that Nanny P knows well. Alistair is badly scared from the war in Corunna and hopes to live quietly on his estate. He has his faithful dog and because of his scars has given up his rakish ways. Nora has a friend almost sister in the adopted daughter of the local vicar, Lottie.
There's lots of fun and intrigue with Nora and Lottie attending the London marriage mart season. I thoughly recommend this book.
voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. A clean romance in the mode of Heyer.
Loeonora is about to move out of her home because her father's heir is coming to claim the manor. He is a lovely man, very reasonable and understanding of her situation and how hard Nora has worked to keep the estate in good working order. Mr Lockwood's step father is a well thought of follower of fashion in London and George is relieved that he can dress how he likes in the country. Nora's got a Nanny that she loves and who she intents to take to the Lodge when she moves. The next estate is owned by an Earl. One that Nanny P knows well. Alistair is badly scared from the war in Corunna and hopes to live quietly on his estate. He has his faithful dog and because of his scars has given up his rakish ways. Nora has a friend almost sister in the adopted daughter of the local vicar, Lottie.
There's lots of fun and intrigue with Nora and Lottie attending the London marriage mart season. I thoughly recommend this book.
voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 15, 2025
This is a difficult one for me to rate. On the one hand, there’s nothing major wrong with it, really. It just never set me alight… no, worse than that, it never even became interesting. Dull characters, predictable plot, and writing that, while competent, never sparkled.
Here’s the premise: Leonora Appleby is twenty-seven and settling into spinsterhood. She’s about to be forced out of her childhood home since the new heir will soon be arriving to claim it. Meanwhile, on a neighbouring estate, the mysterious Earl Rokeby has returned, injured after the war, a younger brother inheriting after his brother died in battle. And for Leonora’s best friend, Charlotte Blythe, abandoned at birth on the vicar’s doorstep, there’s a change which leads both girls, and former nanny Mrs Priddy, to London for the season.
I don’t know why it is that so many authors, when they decide to dive into Regency England, are so obsessed with the London season. There are so many other interesting settings to choose from, and frankly, the tired old trope of the country ingenues adjusting to the different society of London was done to death decades ago, and to sparkling effect by Georgette Heyer herself. It’s disappointing to find so little originality in an author who is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.
At least she has done her research, and a great deal of it if the repeated descriptions of clothes, furniture and architecture is anything to go by. It certainly adds colour, and if I could have done with a trifle less colour, that’s just me. There’s less excuse for the title errors. One character is referred to as both Lady Livia Dearlove and the Honourable Miss Dearlove. She can only be one or the other, not both. And the curate is referred to as ‘Curate Fopling’ throughout. Clergymen were only ever addressed as Mr Fopling (or Dr, if he was a Doctor of Divinity, like Dr Grant in Mansfield Park).
But what about the characters? The plot? The romance? Well… this is where it gets tricky. There are certain expectations for a Regency romance: it must have either a rattling plot, or appealing characterisation, or emotional depth, or scintillating dialogue. I’d like wit as well, but that may be asking a bit much. Obviously, the more of them the better, but it must have at least one of these facets to engage the reader. This book? Not so much. The plot, far from rattling, was a pedestrian affair without a single surprising feature. The characters, particularly the two females, start off well. Leonora, in particular, being older, is both sensible and intelligent, but towards the end the need for some bumps in the road to the inevitable happy ending sees her descending into stupidity. Charlotte’s silliness is more excusable given her age, but really, people, how hard is it to just tell people what’s going on and not try to do it all yourself? The two leading men were very likeable and suitably heroic, but a little bit of self-awareness of their own feelings wouldn’t have gone amiss. The villains were straight from central casting, a pair of standard-issue antagonists.
What about emotional depth? This is what I think of as the Mary Balogh effect - she may be wobbly on historical accuracy, and her characters behave in some wildly peculiar ways, but she makes me cry every single time. This author, not so much. For one thing, time after time she tells us what the characters are thinking and feeling, instead of showing us. And then she headhops with gay abandon, jumping from one character’s point of view to another even within the same paragraph. All of that serves to distance the reader from the characters, so when we really should be feeling their pain or fear or anger, we never do. And the big reveals are just tossed out there, without any emotional resonance at all. Not that they were surprising or anything, but still.
As for scintillating dialogue, I cut the author some slack here, because it’s a hard thing to do, and genuine wit is as rare as hen’s teeth. I don’t think I laughed once while reading this. Even so, there were some very intense exchanges between Leonora and Lord Rokeby (and sometimes in some bizarre places - a ballroom, for instance, or a carriage with the chaperon ‘pretending’ to sleep). I should perhaps mention that Mrs Priddy must be the world’s worst chaperon. She sat with her knitting at the ball, leaving her charges unattended, and at the end, Leonora and Rokeby are stripping off and getting hot and heavy while she (again) ‘pretends’ to sleep! Ridiculous.
This seems like a long catalogue of complaints, and it is, I suppose, but it’s more from disappointment than anything else. There are plenty of Regencies that I can get through despite a multitude of errors because I don’t expect much from them, but Jane Dunn is a different case (a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, for heaven’s sake!). So it ought to be literature, right? And perhaps at some level that I don’t fully appreciate, it is. Maybe I’m so attuned to the entertainment end of the genre that I can’t see a good book when it’s in front of me. But my personal requirement is to be entertained. If the author can’t tell a good story which draws me in and immerses me in the lives of these people, then I’m going to mark it down. I’d have given it two stars except that there’s some lovely writing in the descriptions of settings and clothes, so I’m going to be generous and go for three stars.
Here’s the premise: Leonora Appleby is twenty-seven and settling into spinsterhood. She’s about to be forced out of her childhood home since the new heir will soon be arriving to claim it. Meanwhile, on a neighbouring estate, the mysterious Earl Rokeby has returned, injured after the war, a younger brother inheriting after his brother died in battle. And for Leonora’s best friend, Charlotte Blythe, abandoned at birth on the vicar’s doorstep, there’s a change which leads both girls, and former nanny Mrs Priddy, to London for the season.
I don’t know why it is that so many authors, when they decide to dive into Regency England, are so obsessed with the London season. There are so many other interesting settings to choose from, and frankly, the tired old trope of the country ingenues adjusting to the different society of London was done to death decades ago, and to sparkling effect by Georgette Heyer herself. It’s disappointing to find so little originality in an author who is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature.
At least she has done her research, and a great deal of it if the repeated descriptions of clothes, furniture and architecture is anything to go by. It certainly adds colour, and if I could have done with a trifle less colour, that’s just me. There’s less excuse for the title errors. One character is referred to as both Lady Livia Dearlove and the Honourable Miss Dearlove. She can only be one or the other, not both. And the curate is referred to as ‘Curate Fopling’ throughout. Clergymen were only ever addressed as Mr Fopling (or Dr, if he was a Doctor of Divinity, like Dr Grant in Mansfield Park).
But what about the characters? The plot? The romance? Well… this is where it gets tricky. There are certain expectations for a Regency romance: it must have either a rattling plot, or appealing characterisation, or emotional depth, or scintillating dialogue. I’d like wit as well, but that may be asking a bit much. Obviously, the more of them the better, but it must have at least one of these facets to engage the reader. This book? Not so much. The plot, far from rattling, was a pedestrian affair without a single surprising feature. The characters, particularly the two females, start off well. Leonora, in particular, being older, is both sensible and intelligent, but towards the end the need for some bumps in the road to the inevitable happy ending sees her descending into stupidity. Charlotte’s silliness is more excusable given her age, but really, people, how hard is it to just tell people what’s going on and not try to do it all yourself? The two leading men were very likeable and suitably heroic, but a little bit of self-awareness of their own feelings wouldn’t have gone amiss. The villains were straight from central casting, a pair of standard-issue antagonists.
What about emotional depth? This is what I think of as the Mary Balogh effect - she may be wobbly on historical accuracy, and her characters behave in some wildly peculiar ways, but she makes me cry every single time. This author, not so much. For one thing, time after time she tells us what the characters are thinking and feeling, instead of showing us. And then she headhops with gay abandon, jumping from one character’s point of view to another even within the same paragraph. All of that serves to distance the reader from the characters, so when we really should be feeling their pain or fear or anger, we never do. And the big reveals are just tossed out there, without any emotional resonance at all. Not that they were surprising or anything, but still.
As for scintillating dialogue, I cut the author some slack here, because it’s a hard thing to do, and genuine wit is as rare as hen’s teeth. I don’t think I laughed once while reading this. Even so, there were some very intense exchanges between Leonora and Lord Rokeby (and sometimes in some bizarre places - a ballroom, for instance, or a carriage with the chaperon ‘pretending’ to sleep). I should perhaps mention that Mrs Priddy must be the world’s worst chaperon. She sat with her knitting at the ball, leaving her charges unattended, and at the end, Leonora and Rokeby are stripping off and getting hot and heavy while she (again) ‘pretends’ to sleep! Ridiculous.
This seems like a long catalogue of complaints, and it is, I suppose, but it’s more from disappointment than anything else. There are plenty of Regencies that I can get through despite a multitude of errors because I don’t expect much from them, but Jane Dunn is a different case (a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, for heaven’s sake!). So it ought to be literature, right? And perhaps at some level that I don’t fully appreciate, it is. Maybe I’m so attuned to the entertainment end of the genre that I can’t see a good book when it’s in front of me. But my personal requirement is to be entertained. If the author can’t tell a good story which draws me in and immerses me in the lives of these people, then I’m going to mark it down. I’d have given it two stars except that there’s some lovely writing in the descriptions of settings and clothes, so I’m going to be generous and go for three stars.
August 20, 2024
English village life!
Charming story of an earl returned to his lands after being scarred in the Napoleonic war. Lady of the Manor, Leonora Appleby had been living in Hasterleigh, Berkshire all her life. Now the heir to the property George Lockwood was to visit.
Charlotte (Lottie) Blythe a foundling, is her best friend and daughter to local vicar and wife.
A village story with a suicide, a loving recluse and his dog, a host of others and a smarmy officer.
Jolly good read!
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Charming story of an earl returned to his lands after being scarred in the Napoleonic war. Lady of the Manor, Leonora Appleby had been living in Hasterleigh, Berkshire all her life. Now the heir to the property George Lockwood was to visit.
Charlotte (Lottie) Blythe a foundling, is her best friend and daughter to local vicar and wife.
A village story with a suicide, a loving recluse and his dog, a host of others and a smarmy officer.
Jolly good read!
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
August 7, 2024
Just what the doctor ordered: light, dramatic historical romance reminiscent of Mary Balogh and Jane Austen, perfect to get you out of your reading slump!!
This book was SO FUNNY, like laugh out loud at multiple point throughout the book funny. The humor was witty and sly, and fit perfectly into the family drama style of the book. The Countess of Bucklebury was SO messy but hilarious 😂 I also liked both of the main characters, Alistair and especially Leonora, and although I wanted to see more of their relationship development, I did root for them and believe in their lasting connection. The plot of this book also had its fair share of twists and turns, and the plot twist near the end felt like something out of a TV show, it kept me on the edge of my seat!
Overall, if you're looking for a book that will take you places you never expected it would go, and have tons of laughs along the way, I'd highly recommend this book!!
4/5
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
This book was SO FUNNY, like laugh out loud at multiple point throughout the book funny. The humor was witty and sly, and fit perfectly into the family drama style of the book. The Countess of Bucklebury was SO messy but hilarious 😂 I also liked both of the main characters, Alistair and especially Leonora, and although I wanted to see more of their relationship development, I did root for them and believe in their lasting connection. The plot of this book also had its fair share of twists and turns, and the plot twist near the end felt like something out of a TV show, it kept me on the edge of my seat!
Overall, if you're looking for a book that will take you places you never expected it would go, and have tons of laughs along the way, I'd highly recommend this book!!
4/5
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
June 15, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much! As a Jane Austen fan I was delighted to read a novel that was similar but also uniquely fresh. The heroes and villains are well sign posted from the start, however there is still delight to be had in the anticipation of the unfolding story. There were a few sub plots I didn't expect which enhanced the story, and it was lovely to read about two strong young ladies who stand up for themselves and each other!
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.
#ALadysFortune #NetGalley
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.
#ALadysFortune #NetGalley
September 9, 2024
Disappointing. The story was all right up until the end where the "sweet romance" no longer applied.
February 1, 2025
Liked the FLs initially but they become annoying as the story goes on. I think I only like George by the time the novel ended.
Also some inconsistencies (definitely remembered 1 instance) which kinda pet peeve of mine. It's not even a historical inaccuracy, it's an actual event/knowledge imparted in the book that was contradicted in later parts (and no, it's not about who Charlotte's father is).
Also some inconsistencies (definitely remembered 1 instance) which kinda pet peeve of mine. It's not even a historical inaccuracy, it's an actual event/knowledge imparted in the book that was contradicted in later parts (and no, it's not about who Charlotte's father is).
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 6, 2024
this was pretty good in a pride and prejudice way….
August 28, 2024
Leonora Appleby waits for the new heir, George Lockwood, to take over Hasterleigh Manor after the death of her father. His offer for her to live at the Lodge means she won't have to leave her dearest friends. Alister, the Earl of Rokeby, returns to Rokeby Abbey. A war hero, scared from his wounds, he isn't the easiest man to get to know. The earl arranges for his niece, Charlotte, and her best friend Leonora to travel to London for the Season. At first exciting, everything dims and they dream of returning home. The Earl Rokeby's final confession sheds new light on his character. A man to be admired and loved by Leonora. If only he could return her love? Very much reminiscent of older regency historical romance books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
July 28, 2024
This was the perfect regency read for me! I needed this!
Two romantic stories--both special in their right. And they checked off all my boxes.
I also really loved the friendship between Leonora and Charlotte.
This was sweet, clean, charming, and fun! And if you enjoy Jane Austen, you'll enjoy this one!
Two romantic stories--both special in their right. And they checked off all my boxes.
I also really loved the friendship between Leonora and Charlotte.
This was sweet, clean, charming, and fun! And if you enjoy Jane Austen, you'll enjoy this one!
December 17, 2024
The miscommunication trope is overdone and incredibly irritating. Not for people with fully-formed frontal lobes.
July 29, 2024
*** I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review
In the fourth Regency romance by this author, we will be able to get our Bridgerton fix once again as we travel to Regency England where it is time for the Season once again and two more ladies are in need of a husband. Leonora Appleby at twenty-seven is considered by many (including herself) to be past the marriageable age. She had been betrothed once before, but the man she loved was sent in to battle and lost his life. Now, her childhood home, Hasterleigh Manor, is soon to be taken over by the heir to the land, George Lockwood, and she must find other accommodations . But life has a way of springing surprises and the return of the brooding war hero Earl Rokeby, presumed dead on the French battlefields, to the magnificent neighboring Rokeby Abbey has the village atwitter with speculation. Earl Rokeby has returned, scarred in mind and body, with news for Leonora’s best friend Charlotte Blythe – news that will change everything. Charlotte, who was left on the doorstep of the parsonage as a baby, has always wondered about her parentage. Not knowing her background and having any dowry has kept her from attending the Season in the past, but with the return of Earl Rokeby, she finds the answers she has always wanted.
I love these books. I am a huge Bridgerton fan, and as all of the other like-minded individuals would agree, it is entirely too long in-between seasons. These books are my Bridgerton fix. I get swept up in them the same way I do my favorite show. I love the characters, and how each book only focuses on a couple of young ladies at a time, so you stay invested in their story. If you are a Bridgerton fan, or just love a good romance, then you will love this. Each book is written as a stand-alone, as the characters do not repeat, so you don't have to read them in order. I highly recommend this!
In the fourth Regency romance by this author, we will be able to get our Bridgerton fix once again as we travel to Regency England where it is time for the Season once again and two more ladies are in need of a husband. Leonora Appleby at twenty-seven is considered by many (including herself) to be past the marriageable age. She had been betrothed once before, but the man she loved was sent in to battle and lost his life. Now, her childhood home, Hasterleigh Manor, is soon to be taken over by the heir to the land, George Lockwood, and she must find other accommodations . But life has a way of springing surprises and the return of the brooding war hero Earl Rokeby, presumed dead on the French battlefields, to the magnificent neighboring Rokeby Abbey has the village atwitter with speculation. Earl Rokeby has returned, scarred in mind and body, with news for Leonora’s best friend Charlotte Blythe – news that will change everything. Charlotte, who was left on the doorstep of the parsonage as a baby, has always wondered about her parentage. Not knowing her background and having any dowry has kept her from attending the Season in the past, but with the return of Earl Rokeby, she finds the answers she has always wanted.
I love these books. I am a huge Bridgerton fan, and as all of the other like-minded individuals would agree, it is entirely too long in-between seasons. These books are my Bridgerton fix. I get swept up in them the same way I do my favorite show. I love the characters, and how each book only focuses on a couple of young ladies at a time, so you stay invested in their story. If you are a Bridgerton fan, or just love a good romance, then you will love this. Each book is written as a stand-alone, as the characters do not repeat, so you don't have to read them in order. I highly recommend this!
August 4, 2024
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
Miss Leonora Appleby’s life is about to change. Following her father’s death, she will be moving out of the Manor that’s been her home her entire life, and just hopes the new heir cares for her home as much as she had. But there’s more than one new arrival to Hasterleigh, and the new Earl Rokeby, long presumed dead, but newly arrived home from war, is setting the town ablaze. He’s brought more than just war wounds, and some newly revealed secrets are going to change the lives of them all.
When I saw this book on NetGalley, I knew it would be a book for me. I really enjoyed the chemistry and development of the relationship between Leonora and Alistair. It was not an easy love story, and the added side stories surrounding Charlotte, and Alistair’s history, were great. The writing style did take a little getting used to, but one I was a few chapters in, I was hooked. There’s definitely a Pride & Prejudice vibe to the book, especially with the plot line surrounding the ‘baddie’, and the ending nicely tied all the plot lines together. A great Regency romance.
Miss Leonora Appleby’s life is about to change. Following her father’s death, she will be moving out of the Manor that’s been her home her entire life, and just hopes the new heir cares for her home as much as she had. But there’s more than one new arrival to Hasterleigh, and the new Earl Rokeby, long presumed dead, but newly arrived home from war, is setting the town ablaze. He’s brought more than just war wounds, and some newly revealed secrets are going to change the lives of them all.
When I saw this book on NetGalley, I knew it would be a book for me. I really enjoyed the chemistry and development of the relationship between Leonora and Alistair. It was not an easy love story, and the added side stories surrounding Charlotte, and Alistair’s history, were great. The writing style did take a little getting used to, but one I was a few chapters in, I was hooked. There’s definitely a Pride & Prejudice vibe to the book, especially with the plot line surrounding the ‘baddie’, and the ending nicely tied all the plot lines together. A great Regency romance.
August 2, 2024
I've read all of Jane Dunn's Regency romances to date, and they are all fabulous. A Lady's Fortune is a delightful addition to her books.
Our two main characters, Leonora and Charlotte, are refreshing in their outlook on life. Leonora is happy with her rural existence, while Charlotte expects little because the nature of her birth is a mystery. Both women flourish outside the constraints of the expectation of a London season but are to be plunged into it, eventually, for much of this book takes place in their rural idyll, where our author is able to draw on her love of gardening and the outdoors (I follow her on X) to enrich the storyline - and this is coming from someone who can just about name a daffodil or a rose.
What I loved about this book is that we, the reader, really do know much of what will happen, but it unfolds in the delightful and charming way that Regency romances should - I read the last 30% in one sitting, unable to put it down.
Leonora, Charlotte, Earl Rokeby and George Lockwood will surely delight readers of the genre. 5 stars from me.
Our two main characters, Leonora and Charlotte, are refreshing in their outlook on life. Leonora is happy with her rural existence, while Charlotte expects little because the nature of her birth is a mystery. Both women flourish outside the constraints of the expectation of a London season but are to be plunged into it, eventually, for much of this book takes place in their rural idyll, where our author is able to draw on her love of gardening and the outdoors (I follow her on X) to enrich the storyline - and this is coming from someone who can just about name a daffodil or a rose.
What I loved about this book is that we, the reader, really do know much of what will happen, but it unfolds in the delightful and charming way that Regency romances should - I read the last 30% in one sitting, unable to put it down.
Leonora, Charlotte, Earl Rokeby and George Lockwood will surely delight readers of the genre. 5 stars from me.
August 4, 2024
A Lady’s Fortune was a captivating and immersive regency romance, perfect for fans of Bridgerton.
I really enjoyed the Pride and Prejudice feel of the story, with the wounded and dashing Earl Rokeby, and the kind and gentle Lord Lockwood. The friendship between the Leonora and Charlotte was layered and moving, and I loved the way Charlotte’s social status was portrayed. With plenty of swoon-worthy moments (and even though I suspected the ending early on), what I loved most about this story was the journey. The author did a wonderful job of building an immersive country community, and creating characters with depth and tension, making the story a wonderful escape and a compelling read.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
I really enjoyed the Pride and Prejudice feel of the story, with the wounded and dashing Earl Rokeby, and the kind and gentle Lord Lockwood. The friendship between the Leonora and Charlotte was layered and moving, and I loved the way Charlotte’s social status was portrayed. With plenty of swoon-worthy moments (and even though I suspected the ending early on), what I loved most about this story was the journey. The author did a wonderful job of building an immersive country community, and creating characters with depth and tension, making the story a wonderful escape and a compelling read.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
September 29, 2024
Very creative use of common themes in this genre—the disfigured hero, the almost-on-the-shelf young woman whose fiance was lost on the battlefield, the faithful servant dispensing sage advice, the dastardly snake who tries to steal credit from his betters, and MORE
August 6, 2024
Thoroughly well-written and enjoyable
August 16, 2024
This was not one of my favourites of Jane Dunn. I skipped quite a bit of the book.
The historical accuracy was excellent however spoiler the anticipation of their vows was very surprising.
The historical accuracy was excellent however spoiler the anticipation of their vows was very surprising.
September 5, 2024
Star Rating: 3/5
Spice: 1/5
The premise of this book really caught my attention. I am a fan of historical romance, but this is my first book by Jane Dunn. I tried to finish this book, but ultimately I had to wave the flag and just give it up. I wanted to like it so much and I attempted to power through until I started questioning myself as to why I was struggling through a book that held little interest to me.
This book follows Leonora Appleby and Charlotte Blythe, with it's main focus on Leonora. Leonora is delightfully independent and at 27 and unmarried, is considered an old maid. Ownership of the home that she has always known is soon taken by its new heir, George Lockwood, after the death of her father. At the same time, her neighbor Alistar, a war veteran who was scared at war returns. He's a bit abrasive, but Leonora is instantly attracted to him while Charlotte is attracted to George.
All of the characters are very likable and nice, but don't seem to have any depth. The slow burn between Leonora and Alistar is so slow that it's virtually invisible. There was just nothing there to compel me to continue reading. I was confident that they would all have very nice happy endings with small, but tolerable bumps in the road.
Spice: 1/5
The premise of this book really caught my attention. I am a fan of historical romance, but this is my first book by Jane Dunn. I tried to finish this book, but ultimately I had to wave the flag and just give it up. I wanted to like it so much and I attempted to power through until I started questioning myself as to why I was struggling through a book that held little interest to me.
This book follows Leonora Appleby and Charlotte Blythe, with it's main focus on Leonora. Leonora is delightfully independent and at 27 and unmarried, is considered an old maid. Ownership of the home that she has always known is soon taken by its new heir, George Lockwood, after the death of her father. At the same time, her neighbor Alistar, a war veteran who was scared at war returns. He's a bit abrasive, but Leonora is instantly attracted to him while Charlotte is attracted to George.
All of the characters are very likable and nice, but don't seem to have any depth. The slow burn between Leonora and Alistar is so slow that it's virtually invisible. There was just nothing there to compel me to continue reading. I was confident that they would all have very nice happy endings with small, but tolerable bumps in the road.
November 1, 2024
It was such a beautiful novel! It is my first regency romance and I enjoyed it thoroughly.
Leonora is great and it is interesting how the love story unravels :)
Also, an interesting story where the characters are not incredibly handsome and more real in a sense.
Leonora is great and it is interesting how the love story unravels :)
Also, an interesting story where the characters are not incredibly handsome and more real in a sense.
August 23, 2024
Jane Dunn’s "A Lady’s Fortune" is a compelling historical novel that immerses readers in a richly detailed world of 19th-century England. The story follows the life of the resourceful and independent Leonora Appleby, who, after a series of personal setbacks, finds herself navigating the complexities of wealth and social status. Dunn skillfully balances a vivid depiction of the era with a gripping narrative, blending romance, intrigue, and societal critique.
Dunn’s portrayal of Nora is particularly noteworthy. She emerges as a strong, relatable protagonist, whose journey from adversity to empowerment resonates deeply. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, each contributing to a tapestry of relationships that enrich the story. The historical backdrop is meticulously researched, providing an authentic setting that enhances the plot without overwhelming it.
Overall, "A Lady’s Fortune" is a rewarding read for fans of historical fiction, offering both an engaging story and a thoughtful exploration of the era's social dynamics.
Dunn’s portrayal of Nora is particularly noteworthy. She emerges as a strong, relatable protagonist, whose journey from adversity to empowerment resonates deeply. The supporting characters are equally well-drawn, each contributing to a tapestry of relationships that enrich the story. The historical backdrop is meticulously researched, providing an authentic setting that enhances the plot without overwhelming it.
Overall, "A Lady’s Fortune" is a rewarding read for fans of historical fiction, offering both an engaging story and a thoughtful exploration of the era's social dynamics.
September 1, 2024
*Audiobook. Loved the narration and the easy going storyline.
November 18, 2024
DNF. It was ok but somehow I couldn’t get into as much as I hoped. It moved a little too slowly for me and I wasn’t emotionally engaged.
July 21, 2024
I really enjoyed “A Lady’s Fortune”. It was a sweet romance novel with not one but two love stories! Charlotte and Leonora are best of friends and two men come into their quiet country lives and change everything! There were a couple times where I was frustrated with the girls for certain misunderstandings that caused issues but in reality no one is perfect so it’s not unrealistic by any means! There were twists and turns and excitement I didn’t expect and found myself wishing I could read my book while I work so I think that’s a sure sign of a well written romance!
August 14, 2024
Like many people, I am partial to a well-written Regency romance, and in recent years Jane Dunn has become one of my favourite writers in this genre. In part I think it is the historical accuracy, which stems from her background as a historian, but somehow she manages to convey a world synonymous with the writings of both Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer.
As I began this book, I was reminded of Jane Austen’s Emma with the way in which Leonora had taken Charlotte under her wing, teaching her, guiding her, and wanting to find a husband for the foundling who was like a little sister in her life. There was a scene early in the novel, where a group of people were at dinner, nearly all of whom were mentally matchmaking others at the table. It was so effortlessly funny, and for some reason that I cannot explain, it made me think of the farcical comedy in The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde.
I thought that the resilience in Leonora was captivating, and as for Earl Rokeby, I am not sure I have ever been so attracted to a male literary character before. He was brooding and gruff, but also incredibly caring and thoughtful. They were perfect together although both burdened by the scars of war, with Rokeby’s scars mostly physical ones, but with both of them scarred emotionally too. A mention must also go to Achille, an ever-present and loyal wolfhound, oh how I love dogs in books!
The other characters in the book were all so multi-dimensional. I adored Nanny P (or Mrs Priddy), who had been the mother figure in Leonora’s life, quietly chaperoning Leonora and Charlotte with wisdom, sensibility and the tendency to fall asleep at the best moments. Charlotte was innocent but with a tenacity that was almost unexpected. I also loved George Lockwood, who had such a sunny personality, but with a steeliness when pushed. It would also not be a Regency romance without a cad or two, and Ormonde was a classic schemer, determined to get his own way.
I was so engrossed in this fabulous story that the world passed me by as I read it, and when a book is so good that you get immersed in the world within the pages I cannot think of anything better!
As I began this book, I was reminded of Jane Austen’s Emma with the way in which Leonora had taken Charlotte under her wing, teaching her, guiding her, and wanting to find a husband for the foundling who was like a little sister in her life. There was a scene early in the novel, where a group of people were at dinner, nearly all of whom were mentally matchmaking others at the table. It was so effortlessly funny, and for some reason that I cannot explain, it made me think of the farcical comedy in The Importance of Being Earnest by Oscar Wilde.
I thought that the resilience in Leonora was captivating, and as for Earl Rokeby, I am not sure I have ever been so attracted to a male literary character before. He was brooding and gruff, but also incredibly caring and thoughtful. They were perfect together although both burdened by the scars of war, with Rokeby’s scars mostly physical ones, but with both of them scarred emotionally too. A mention must also go to Achille, an ever-present and loyal wolfhound, oh how I love dogs in books!
The other characters in the book were all so multi-dimensional. I adored Nanny P (or Mrs Priddy), who had been the mother figure in Leonora’s life, quietly chaperoning Leonora and Charlotte with wisdom, sensibility and the tendency to fall asleep at the best moments. Charlotte was innocent but with a tenacity that was almost unexpected. I also loved George Lockwood, who had such a sunny personality, but with a steeliness when pushed. It would also not be a Regency romance without a cad or two, and Ormonde was a classic schemer, determined to get his own way.
I was so engrossed in this fabulous story that the world passed me by as I read it, and when a book is so good that you get immersed in the world within the pages I cannot think of anything better!
August 29, 2024
A charming character driven love story.
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