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The Damsels of Discovery #2
The Lady Sparks a Flame
A Lady with a past. A man with ambition. A romance far from London society that might bridge their divides.
Lady Phoebe Hunt never anticipated returning from exile. A fatal choice drove her from England, but the death of her father—and the revelation of his debts—has brought her home. Once she settles her father’s estate, she will return to America, where she has reinvented herself. There’s no reason to remain, not even for one gravitationally challenged but deliciously tempting Sam Fenley.
Samuel Fenley is all ambition. Rising from shop boy to wealthy investor, he’s left knocking on doors that open only for those with a title. Unless he buys the damned door itself—and the estate that goes with it. Sam offers to relieve Phoebe of her burdens, but is her crumbling mansion all Sam wants? Or is it the Lady herself?
When threats from Phoebe’s past spark new dangers, Sam and Phoebe discover that neither is what the other expected. Standing on the edge of disaster, the disgraced Ice Queen will have to decide if she wants to forge through life alone, or let an unlikely hero melt her heart.
Lady Phoebe Hunt never anticipated returning from exile. A fatal choice drove her from England, but the death of her father—and the revelation of his debts—has brought her home. Once she settles her father’s estate, she will return to America, where she has reinvented herself. There’s no reason to remain, not even for one gravitationally challenged but deliciously tempting Sam Fenley.
Samuel Fenley is all ambition. Rising from shop boy to wealthy investor, he’s left knocking on doors that open only for those with a title. Unless he buys the damned door itself—and the estate that goes with it. Sam offers to relieve Phoebe of her burdens, but is her crumbling mansion all Sam wants? Or is it the Lady herself?
When threats from Phoebe’s past spark new dangers, Sam and Phoebe discover that neither is what the other expected. Standing on the edge of disaster, the disgraced Ice Queen will have to decide if she wants to forge through life alone, or let an unlikely hero melt her heart.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 25, 2025
60 people are currently reading
7766 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Everett
6 books791 followersElizabeth Everett is a USA Today Bestselling author of historical romance and lives in upstate New York. Her work is inspired by her admiration for rule breakers and belief in the power of love to change the world.
Head over to Elizabeth's website and subscribe to The Rule Breaker's Report for the latest news, exclusive excerpts from Elizabeth's books, giveaways, and terrible jokes.
Head over to Elizabeth's website and subscribe to The Rule Breaker's Report for the latest news, exclusive excerpts from Elizabeth's books, giveaways, and terrible jokes.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
May 8, 2025
3.5 stars
This was really, REALLY slow for the majority of the book much like the first one, and I had an extremely hard time getting into it. I put it down several times, and was confused for so much of the book. Idk if it's just me (maybe im dumb) but I was just having a hard time. With that being said, once it picked up, my eyes were glued to the page.
Sam was the golden retriever boyfriend. Oh my GOD he was so golden. He was also such a clutz and so sarcastic and funny; I adored him. Phoebe was your typical black cat fmc. I adored her. I resonated so deeply with her story (check TWs) and the thoughts she had about herself. Everett handled this very well. Phoebe resorted to pain in order to cope with her feelings, or even to deflect them and mask them from others. She could be described as cold or cruel but she is just hurting. She was not a perfect heroine but I still loved her deeply.
I thought Phoebe's plot was interesting--with her exile, etc--but I wouldn't say I, personally, cared. I think I found it hard to connect with the story as a whole when it got to these parts.
My favorite parts was Sam with Phoebe and her family at hunt house. So many shenanigans transpire and it was genuinely so much fun. The dialogue and banter felt realistic and I found myself actually laughing out loud. The tension between Sam and Phoebe was sizzling and I thoroughly enjoyed their romance. Sam... the man that u are. "I can't hurt you" like please do!!! He was absolutely obsessed with her!!! he fell first!!!
“You are doomed, Phoebe. Now I’ve heard you laugh I will never be happy until I hear it again."
This was really, REALLY slow for the majority of the book much like the first one, and I had an extremely hard time getting into it. I put it down several times, and was confused for so much of the book. Idk if it's just me (maybe im dumb) but I was just having a hard time. With that being said, once it picked up, my eyes were glued to the page.
Sam was the golden retriever boyfriend. Oh my GOD he was so golden. He was also such a clutz and so sarcastic and funny; I adored him. Phoebe was your typical black cat fmc. I adored her. I resonated so deeply with her story (check TWs) and the thoughts she had about herself. Everett handled this very well. Phoebe resorted to pain in order to cope with her feelings, or even to deflect them and mask them from others. She could be described as cold or cruel but she is just hurting. She was not a perfect heroine but I still loved her deeply.
I thought Phoebe's plot was interesting--with her exile, etc--but I wouldn't say I, personally, cared. I think I found it hard to connect with the story as a whole when it got to these parts.
My favorite parts was Sam with Phoebe and her family at hunt house. So many shenanigans transpire and it was genuinely so much fun. The dialogue and banter felt realistic and I found myself actually laughing out loud. The tension between Sam and Phoebe was sizzling and I thoroughly enjoyed their romance. Sam... the man that u are. "I can't hurt you" like please do!!! He was absolutely obsessed with her!!! he fell first!!!
“You are doomed, Phoebe. Now I’ve heard you laugh I will never be happy until I hear it again."
May 21, 2025
This is a ghost story. Not literally (well, maybe a few literal ghosts) but metaphorical ghosts abound. Phoebe Hunt is haunted by the death caused unwittingly by her anger and actions in a previous series, she refuses to grant herself absolution for this, even as she atones and provides financial restitution to the victim's family. (Sidebar: This book relies *heavily* on characters and events of the first series, there's enough exposition that one could read it cold, but its a *much* richer experience with the whole background). Exiled to America, she is back to settle her father's finances and make sure her sister Karolina and mother are provided for.
The women in her family are all ghosts themselves, sometimes choosing to place their minds and souls elsewhere to escape, and haunted by the abuse of their horrible husband/father. Phoebe's mother is literally untethered, disassociating into a reality only she can fully see, where her family is intact and she can protect herself from her past. Karolina and Phoebe have had so much practice making themselves invisible, making themselves ghosts to get out of the line of sight and line of fire that they are no longer seen for who they are today. The problem with being a ghost is that it's hard to know how to be real, especially when it's safer to let yourself fade. Phoebe tried to anchor herself with pain and self-distructive behavior, and with letting her anger out, but the results were tragic.
Enter Sam. Beloved hedgehog dad (RIP Fermat) and as steady emotionally as he is unsteady and clumsy physically. For Romance Reasons this busy and fantastically wealthy and successful businessman is helping the Hunt family sell their estates and the contents. The ghost of their patriarch looms over the country estate, and while there the women regress and fade. Sam is there with his humor and good nature and charm, his electrical connection to Phoebe, and his relentless forward drive to succeed parked for a while. "They would be trapped in this place forever, simply fading from people's memories and then from existance if he hadn't been an anchor tying them to the real world."
Sam knows his role and what he wants, and what he wants is Phoebe, and what she needed was "light and laughter - enough to uncover the dark places, enough so he could go there with her when she needed him." Using the same keen confidence and calculating mind that made him so successful at business, he adapts and anticipates how to best help Phoebe and win her trust and love. He's a genuinely good natured good person, not naive to the problems Phoebe has, but able to see the best of her as well, as well as being wise to her tricks.
Something about this book and the Grand Declaration and its lead-up didn't quick hang together for me in the end. I felt Everett did some "tell not show" of the deeper character within Sam, his calculating mind and the fact that his charm and consideration hid the insecurities he had and his resentment of the peerage old-boys network. I mean, it was discussed on page, but it didn't feel as visceral and real as the character work with the women in the book. I don't know, her FMCs are definitely her strengths, the previous MMCs are distilled into one or two traits. Sam's Job is Good Natured Golden Retreiver, the same way that Arthur's Job is Intimidating and Slapstick with Grantham, Grey's job is In-Law, they're all kinda just Ken. The exception to this is Thorne, who was so well developed in the previous book of this series - and doesn't appear at all here, just the namecheck of his wife as an aside. Booo! More Thorne Content!
Where Everett does excel is presenting historical context in a concise and organic way. Her one paragraph on the Corn Laws should be taught in history books, and the quick aside on changes to getting marraige liscenses was equally informative. Overall I really enjoyed this book, the first half especially with the examination of female rage and helplessness, and the highly resonant depiction of disappearing and being a ghost in your own home. She really hit that aspect of the book out of the park, and its well worth a read for that alone.
The women in her family are all ghosts themselves, sometimes choosing to place their minds and souls elsewhere to escape, and haunted by the abuse of their horrible husband/father. Phoebe's mother is literally untethered, disassociating into a reality only she can fully see, where her family is intact and she can protect herself from her past. Karolina and Phoebe have had so much practice making themselves invisible, making themselves ghosts to get out of the line of sight and line of fire that they are no longer seen for who they are today. The problem with being a ghost is that it's hard to know how to be real, especially when it's safer to let yourself fade. Phoebe tried to anchor herself with pain and self-distructive behavior, and with letting her anger out, but the results were tragic.
Enter Sam. Beloved hedgehog dad (RIP Fermat) and as steady emotionally as he is unsteady and clumsy physically. For Romance Reasons this busy and fantastically wealthy and successful businessman is helping the Hunt family sell their estates and the contents. The ghost of their patriarch looms over the country estate, and while there the women regress and fade. Sam is there with his humor and good nature and charm, his electrical connection to Phoebe, and his relentless forward drive to succeed parked for a while. "They would be trapped in this place forever, simply fading from people's memories and then from existance if he hadn't been an anchor tying them to the real world."
Sam knows his role and what he wants, and what he wants is Phoebe, and what she needed was "light and laughter - enough to uncover the dark places, enough so he could go there with her when she needed him." Using the same keen confidence and calculating mind that made him so successful at business, he adapts and anticipates how to best help Phoebe and win her trust and love. He's a genuinely good natured good person, not naive to the problems Phoebe has, but able to see the best of her as well, as well as being wise to her tricks.
Something about this book and the Grand Declaration and its lead-up didn't quick hang together for me in the end. I felt Everett did some "tell not show" of the deeper character within Sam, his calculating mind and the fact that his charm and consideration hid the insecurities he had and his resentment of the peerage old-boys network. I mean, it was discussed on page, but it didn't feel as visceral and real as the character work with the women in the book. I don't know, her FMCs are definitely her strengths, the previous MMCs are distilled into one or two traits. Sam's Job is Good Natured Golden Retreiver, the same way that Arthur's Job is Intimidating and Slapstick with Grantham, Grey's job is In-Law, they're all kinda just Ken. The exception to this is Thorne, who was so well developed in the previous book of this series - and doesn't appear at all here, just the namecheck of his wife as an aside. Booo! More Thorne Content!
Where Everett does excel is presenting historical context in a concise and organic way. Her one paragraph on the Corn Laws should be taught in history books, and the quick aside on changes to getting marraige liscenses was equally informative. Overall I really enjoyed this book, the first half especially with the examination of female rage and helplessness, and the highly resonant depiction of disappearing and being a ghost in your own home. She really hit that aspect of the book out of the park, and its well worth a read for that alone.
March 24, 2025
I don’t understand why I haven’t been hearing more people shout about Elizabeth Everett’s writing, because it is truly beautiful. This is only my second book of hers (The Love Remedy being the first), but I didn’t feel lost even with the connections to her other series. This is definitely a darker romance as Lady Phoebe Hunt, the FMC, along with her mother and sisters suffered an abusive household. As a result, Phoebe self-harms and although this may be triggering to some readers, Everett handles her characters with sensitivity, thoughtfulness and affection. Phoebe is angry—the epitome of feminine rage and in this way I found her relatable. She is strong despite her circumstances, has a brilliant mind, and feels tremendous guilt for an incident in her past she’s trying to make amends for.
Enter lovable, can’t-walk-two-feet-without-tripping himbo Sam Fenley whom is as opposite as possible to Phoebe; so much so that he initially courts her sister. Yet Sam is everything Phoebe needs even if it takes them both awhile to realize it. Sam and Phoebe work to catalog her family’s household items and even though they seem to both be unwilling participants, the gloominess and past ghosts of Hunt house oddly enough draw them together. Oh I loved Sam so much. He is steady and true, he never pretends to be anything he isn’t, and he makes room for Phoebe to be vulnerable. The epitome of a golden-retriever MMC, Sam sees Phoebe for the woman she is, and not for how she perceives herself.
This story is a perfect example of how two people make each other better than they are by themselves. Sometimes difficult to read, the HEA is truly well fought for and deserved by both protagonists. This is a couple that as opposite as they are, will continue to love fiercely far beyond where the pages end. To that point, the sex is ridiculously well written. Everett can do no wrong writing a love scene and I loved how sex was just one more form of communication for Sam and Phoebe to speak to each other with their bodies, learning each other. I would highly recommend this novel, but please heed any content warnings in the author’s note. I foresee bingeing Everett’s backlog in my future. I received an early copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭🪭.5
Number of times Sam uses the nickname Phoebe-girl: 1️⃣4️⃣
CW: Non-suicidal self harm
Enter lovable, can’t-walk-two-feet-without-tripping himbo Sam Fenley whom is as opposite as possible to Phoebe; so much so that he initially courts her sister. Yet Sam is everything Phoebe needs even if it takes them both awhile to realize it. Sam and Phoebe work to catalog her family’s household items and even though they seem to both be unwilling participants, the gloominess and past ghosts of Hunt house oddly enough draw them together. Oh I loved Sam so much. He is steady and true, he never pretends to be anything he isn’t, and he makes room for Phoebe to be vulnerable. The epitome of a golden-retriever MMC, Sam sees Phoebe for the woman she is, and not for how she perceives herself.
This story is a perfect example of how two people make each other better than they are by themselves. Sometimes difficult to read, the HEA is truly well fought for and deserved by both protagonists. This is a couple that as opposite as they are, will continue to love fiercely far beyond where the pages end. To that point, the sex is ridiculously well written. Everett can do no wrong writing a love scene and I loved how sex was just one more form of communication for Sam and Phoebe to speak to each other with their bodies, learning each other. I would highly recommend this novel, but please heed any content warnings in the author’s note. I foresee bingeing Everett’s backlog in my future. I received an early copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Steam: 🪭🪭.5
Number of times Sam uses the nickname Phoebe-girl: 1️⃣4️⃣
CW: Non-suicidal self harm
March 28, 2025
An incendiary, mesmerizing romance about a woman who’s built a fortress around her heart and the determinedly pugnacious man who wants to tear it down.
He’s a ten, but…
He calls you a villainess of majestic proportions…
He’s afraid of ghosts…
He doesn’t understand what’s so great about pictures of fruit…
She’s a ten but….
She wants to overthrow the patriarchy…
She has a penchant for blowing things up…
She calls you a blockhead…
The Lady Sparks a Flame delves into the complex personality of a woman the world perceives as callous and brittle - a woman who has forged her own way her entire life in a bid to escape the haunting demons of her childhood. Those demons have made Phoebe strong and formidable. They have given her an incisive wit she wields like a weapon.
Her constant teasing of Sam is her way of keeping him at a distance, and watching him slowly convince her to let down her defenses was one of the most tender, empathic love stories I’ve ever read.
Read this book if you love tender cinnamon roll heroes who are fierce in their loving and don’t shy away from jagged edges or scorn that masks vulnerability. Read this book if you love heroines who learn to love their scars- to truly see them as badges of courage and the things that have made them invincible and inviolable in the face of cruelty and violence.
Read this book if you want to laugh and have your heart torn out.
Favorite quotes:
She needed to feel something other than the guilt and grief her mother’s gesture laid upon her. Phoebe’s fingers tightened around the ivory carving in her hand, breathing with relief at the pain where its sharp edges cut into her skin.
It was this notion of surrender that sent a wave of fear through her, frost smothering the fire of desire. Phoebe pulled Sam’s hands away from her face, ready to hurt him, ready to rend herself as well when he let out a gasp. His palm was streaked with her blood.
If the squinty-eyed, prodigiously endowed little gremlins cavorting on the rood screens below could see him, they would piss themselves with laughter as he tried to reach his arm up and over the angry woman who writhed next to him.
That sigh undid something tight within him. He knew this woman now. Knew she would never flat-out say she needed help. That she was overwhelmed and tired and so sad. Phoebe Hunt would have to be safe to use those words. Sam Fenley wanted to give her safety.
Phoebe’s anger had resulted in the creation of a chemical bomb. A bomb was exactly what Sam wanted to level at the world when he heard Phoebe’s story. Phoebe wasn’t a villainess. She was an avenger whose anger had been misdirected because the man who hurt her was beyond her reach. He drew closer but Phoebe held up a hand, palm facing him, to stop him.
All she’d wanted was to live loud enough that no one could erase her.
“Hmmph.” Phoebe made a sound of disagreement, but said nothing more. She would put up a fight; Sam knew it in his bones, but it would be a good fight. A fair fight. A fight worth getting hurt in when all was said and done. Phoebe had lived up until now equating love with pain. Sam was going to help her unlearn that equation.
Phoebe had seen to the heart of him, seen the man behind the jokes and smiles. Every time she’d examined him, she’d come away with indisputable findings; he did deflect with humor, he did need to step back and appreciate his successes. She couldn’t have come up with these theories if she didn’t care for him, worry about him . . . love him. And Sam loved Phoebe in return. Loved her in a way that had permeated his bones. This was a love he’d never wanted to find. He’d been permanently altered; loving this woman ran through his veins, his fingers, his mouth, his words, and his dreams from now until the day he died.
Their love would be huge and unwieldy and require he strip himself as bare as she had when she admitted to her scars. Sam wanted that love more than anything.
Love is an invisible current like electricity. It has the power to pull the world out from beneath your feet, to light you up, or to propel you forward into the unknown. Their love gave off a spark, and a spark is all it takes to set the world on fire.
He’s a ten, but…
He calls you a villainess of majestic proportions…
He’s afraid of ghosts…
He doesn’t understand what’s so great about pictures of fruit…
She’s a ten but….
She wants to overthrow the patriarchy…
She has a penchant for blowing things up…
She calls you a blockhead…
The Lady Sparks a Flame delves into the complex personality of a woman the world perceives as callous and brittle - a woman who has forged her own way her entire life in a bid to escape the haunting demons of her childhood. Those demons have made Phoebe strong and formidable. They have given her an incisive wit she wields like a weapon.
Her constant teasing of Sam is her way of keeping him at a distance, and watching him slowly convince her to let down her defenses was one of the most tender, empathic love stories I’ve ever read.
Read this book if you love tender cinnamon roll heroes who are fierce in their loving and don’t shy away from jagged edges or scorn that masks vulnerability. Read this book if you love heroines who learn to love their scars- to truly see them as badges of courage and the things that have made them invincible and inviolable in the face of cruelty and violence.
Read this book if you want to laugh and have your heart torn out.
Favorite quotes:
She needed to feel something other than the guilt and grief her mother’s gesture laid upon her. Phoebe’s fingers tightened around the ivory carving in her hand, breathing with relief at the pain where its sharp edges cut into her skin.
It was this notion of surrender that sent a wave of fear through her, frost smothering the fire of desire. Phoebe pulled Sam’s hands away from her face, ready to hurt him, ready to rend herself as well when he let out a gasp. His palm was streaked with her blood.
If the squinty-eyed, prodigiously endowed little gremlins cavorting on the rood screens below could see him, they would piss themselves with laughter as he tried to reach his arm up and over the angry woman who writhed next to him.
That sigh undid something tight within him. He knew this woman now. Knew she would never flat-out say she needed help. That she was overwhelmed and tired and so sad. Phoebe Hunt would have to be safe to use those words. Sam Fenley wanted to give her safety.
Phoebe’s anger had resulted in the creation of a chemical bomb. A bomb was exactly what Sam wanted to level at the world when he heard Phoebe’s story. Phoebe wasn’t a villainess. She was an avenger whose anger had been misdirected because the man who hurt her was beyond her reach. He drew closer but Phoebe held up a hand, palm facing him, to stop him.
All she’d wanted was to live loud enough that no one could erase her.
“Hmmph.” Phoebe made a sound of disagreement, but said nothing more. She would put up a fight; Sam knew it in his bones, but it would be a good fight. A fair fight. A fight worth getting hurt in when all was said and done. Phoebe had lived up until now equating love with pain. Sam was going to help her unlearn that equation.
Phoebe had seen to the heart of him, seen the man behind the jokes and smiles. Every time she’d examined him, she’d come away with indisputable findings; he did deflect with humor, he did need to step back and appreciate his successes. She couldn’t have come up with these theories if she didn’t care for him, worry about him . . . love him. And Sam loved Phoebe in return. Loved her in a way that had permeated his bones. This was a love he’d never wanted to find. He’d been permanently altered; loving this woman ran through his veins, his fingers, his mouth, his words, and his dreams from now until the day he died.
Their love would be huge and unwieldy and require he strip himself as bare as she had when she admitted to her scars. Sam wanted that love more than anything.
Love is an invisible current like electricity. It has the power to pull the world out from beneath your feet, to light you up, or to propel you forward into the unknown. Their love gave off a spark, and a spark is all it takes to set the world on fire.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 3, 2025
Lady Phoebe Hunt has just spent the last few years in America after setting off an explosion that killed someone; as the daughter of a marquess, she wasn't charged, but the death has been sitting with her. Now that she's back and prickly as ever, she's forced to spend time with Sam Fenley, brother of her former best friend Letty from Athena's Retreat (a haven for women scientists). Sam is courting Phoebex's sweet younger sister, even if it's quickly clear to Sam, the sister, and eventually Phoebe that Sam has eyes only for the cold and brilliant Phoebe.
This is marketed as the 2nd book in a series, but is really the 5th, as it's deeply connected to Everett's first series The Secret Scientists of London (more so even than her previous book.) In order to really understand Phoebe and her friends, the series should be read in order.
The Lady Sparks a Flame starts out slowly, with the plot building as Phoebe and Sam get to know one another. There's a lot of inner turmoil for Phoebe, whose father was abusive and who still carries the emotional burden even after his death. She doesn't allow this to be an excuse for what she did, but it does drive her character development. There is some great payoff with steamier scenes.
I ended up listening to the audiobook from the library, and I really enjoyed that format. It helped me move past the slower sections of the book, though I did wonder a few times how I was only at x% throughout...
There are a lot of conversations about non-suicidal self-harm throughout the book, so readers take care. While I think Everett has treated the subject seriously, and there are content warnings at the beginning of the book, it's can be an uncomfortable issue for many.
Thank you to Berkley for an eARC for review. The Lady Sparks a Flame is out 3/25/25.
This is marketed as the 2nd book in a series, but is really the 5th, as it's deeply connected to Everett's first series The Secret Scientists of London (more so even than her previous book.) In order to really understand Phoebe and her friends, the series should be read in order.
The Lady Sparks a Flame starts out slowly, with the plot building as Phoebe and Sam get to know one another. There's a lot of inner turmoil for Phoebe, whose father was abusive and who still carries the emotional burden even after his death. She doesn't allow this to be an excuse for what she did, but it does drive her character development. There is some great payoff with steamier scenes.
I ended up listening to the audiobook from the library, and I really enjoyed that format. It helped me move past the slower sections of the book, though I did wonder a few times how I was only at x% throughout...
There are a lot of conversations about non-suicidal self-harm throughout the book, so readers take care. While I think Everett has treated the subject seriously, and there are content warnings at the beginning of the book, it's can be an uncomfortable issue for many.
Thank you to Berkley for an eARC for review. The Lady Sparks a Flame is out 3/25/25.
March 31, 2025
4.5 Stars
Lady Pheobe Hunt was shipped off to America to pay for her crimes and has spent the last few years there. Now she’s back in England to help her mother and sister get situated after the death of her father. What a horrible man!
Sam Fenley, an enterprising and now wealthy businessman, wants to buy their London Estate and agrees to help them catalog their country house and get it and the contents ready for auction as well. He thinks he might offer for the younger sister, she’s beautiful and titled and it would be a step into the aristocracy that Sam has been looking for. However, Lady Phoebe is the one that captures his attention with her icy demeanor, sharp wit and air of sadness that hangs about her like a cloak.
There’s a lot of bad memories and ghosts for the poor Hunt women! Sam was the breath of fresh air needed as they sorted things out! I absolutely loved him! He was kind, confident, and determined but didn’t take himself too seriously.
Lady Phoebe Hunt was introduced in the previous series, and she certainly was a villainess, but of course, there was far more to her story.
The Lady Sparks a Flame was lovely! The writing was gorgeous and clever with splashes of humor that balanced out some of the darker bits. The romance was delicious and spicy with the perfect foundation and buildup! I think fans of Tessa Dare or Lisa Kleypas would definitely enjoy this story! Characters from the past series figure in and appear here, but I feel you could read the story as a standalone.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Lady Pheobe Hunt was shipped off to America to pay for her crimes and has spent the last few years there. Now she’s back in England to help her mother and sister get situated after the death of her father. What a horrible man!
Sam Fenley, an enterprising and now wealthy businessman, wants to buy their London Estate and agrees to help them catalog their country house and get it and the contents ready for auction as well. He thinks he might offer for the younger sister, she’s beautiful and titled and it would be a step into the aristocracy that Sam has been looking for. However, Lady Phoebe is the one that captures his attention with her icy demeanor, sharp wit and air of sadness that hangs about her like a cloak.
There’s a lot of bad memories and ghosts for the poor Hunt women! Sam was the breath of fresh air needed as they sorted things out! I absolutely loved him! He was kind, confident, and determined but didn’t take himself too seriously.
Lady Phoebe Hunt was introduced in the previous series, and she certainly was a villainess, but of course, there was far more to her story.
The Lady Sparks a Flame was lovely! The writing was gorgeous and clever with splashes of humor that balanced out some of the darker bits. The romance was delicious and spicy with the perfect foundation and buildup! I think fans of Tessa Dare or Lisa Kleypas would definitely enjoy this story! Characters from the past series figure in and appear here, but I feel you could read the story as a standalone.
I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy courtesy of the publisher. These are my thoughts and opinions.
March 26, 2025
Oh my goodness, what a great read! It's been a minute since I've read a book by Elizabeth Everett, and I'd almost forgotten how immersive, fun, and clever her writing is. The Lady Sparks a Flame is the second book in her Damsels of Discovery series and is set in Victorian England. While you wouldn't think of that time period as especially great for anyone who wasn't an aristocratic white man, Elizabeth demonstrates how many stringent societal rules are in flux by having a fallen aristocrat fall for a wealthy merchant... to the surprise of them both. The story is full of action, adventure, and some very good spice - definitely worth a read!
I LOVE a villain redemption story, and it's so interesting to see how this can be done with a female FMC. Phoebe has been through so much pain and trauma, but all she really wants is to find her place in the world. She's smart, driven, and sensitive, but it makes a lot of sense why she has little trust for most men. I truly believe that sweet golden retriever Sam is uniquely suited to finally make her feel worthy of love. I am OBSESSED with Sam. He's very much aware of his humble origins, which he often uses to his advantage, and while he initially courts Phoebe's sister as a way to gain social status, it's pretty clear from early on that he's met his match in Phoebe. I love that he's one of the few people to make her laugh and smile, an how obviously besotted he is with her.
I'll end this by saying how bummed I am that Elizabeth is not going to be able to continue this series as it stands. Modern historical romance is so freaking GOOD and NEEDED right now. This isn't your grandmother's historical romance - give it a shot!
I LOVE a villain redemption story, and it's so interesting to see how this can be done with a female FMC. Phoebe has been through so much pain and trauma, but all she really wants is to find her place in the world. She's smart, driven, and sensitive, but it makes a lot of sense why she has little trust for most men. I truly believe that sweet golden retriever Sam is uniquely suited to finally make her feel worthy of love. I am OBSESSED with Sam. He's very much aware of his humble origins, which he often uses to his advantage, and while he initially courts Phoebe's sister as a way to gain social status, it's pretty clear from early on that he's met his match in Phoebe. I love that he's one of the few people to make her laugh and smile, an how obviously besotted he is with her.
I'll end this by saying how bummed I am that Elizabeth is not going to be able to continue this series as it stands. Modern historical romance is so freaking GOOD and NEEDED right now. This isn't your grandmother's historical romance - give it a shot!
March 5, 2025
Firstly, thanks go to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for an advance Kindle copy of this book, in exchange for a genuine review.
This is apparently a stand-alone second book in the author's "The Damsels of Discovery" series, and the relevant plot points that involve these characters are more than adequately described therein, where the reader doesn't feel like they're missing crucial parts of the story for not having read the book before it.
Phoebe Hunt is the unwitting villain of said first book, where she's made some awful choices and been exiled to America. When her father's death brings her back to England to settle his estate, old feelings surface for Phoebe, prodding wounds that just won't heal. With a lot of trauma and baggage from her childhood pried open yet again, her self-esteem is trash, and she's never felt like she fit into this world of nobility and prestige. She's ready to just throw in the towel and return to live under an American rock.
Sam is an up and coming self-made man, who lacks only for a peerage title to lend respectability to his name, which can open doors that the fortune he built himself, alone, cannot. He offers to buy the estate from Phoebe, and makes clear he'd be interested in offering for her younger sister's hand in marriage, neatly helping them both out of their respective problems.
However, Phoebe's return to England cause more trouble for her, and Sam's forced proximity to the family slowly allow him to see inside her the hurt woman to her true core and perspective, causing him to fall in love with her over time, totally up-ending best laid plans.
This is a "grumpy/sunshine" trope written backward, as Phoebe is by far the more bitter and disillusioned of the two. Sam's coaxing and helping her wrestle with her past seems to steep them both in powerful emotion, drawing them to each other like moths to a flame. Every single scenario with the two is well written and makes sense for who they are and what they've experienced.
It's easy and breathtaking to see Sam's golden heart fall in love with her, sweetened even more by how he helps her fall back in love with herself.
Definitely a recommended read. Thoroughly enjoyable.
This is apparently a stand-alone second book in the author's "The Damsels of Discovery" series, and the relevant plot points that involve these characters are more than adequately described therein, where the reader doesn't feel like they're missing crucial parts of the story for not having read the book before it.
Phoebe Hunt is the unwitting villain of said first book, where she's made some awful choices and been exiled to America. When her father's death brings her back to England to settle his estate, old feelings surface for Phoebe, prodding wounds that just won't heal. With a lot of trauma and baggage from her childhood pried open yet again, her self-esteem is trash, and she's never felt like she fit into this world of nobility and prestige. She's ready to just throw in the towel and return to live under an American rock.
Sam is an up and coming self-made man, who lacks only for a peerage title to lend respectability to his name, which can open doors that the fortune he built himself, alone, cannot. He offers to buy the estate from Phoebe, and makes clear he'd be interested in offering for her younger sister's hand in marriage, neatly helping them both out of their respective problems.
However, Phoebe's return to England cause more trouble for her, and Sam's forced proximity to the family slowly allow him to see inside her the hurt woman to her true core and perspective, causing him to fall in love with her over time, totally up-ending best laid plans.
This is a "grumpy/sunshine" trope written backward, as Phoebe is by far the more bitter and disillusioned of the two. Sam's coaxing and helping her wrestle with her past seems to steep them both in powerful emotion, drawing them to each other like moths to a flame. Every single scenario with the two is well written and makes sense for who they are and what they've experienced.
It's easy and breathtaking to see Sam's golden heart fall in love with her, sweetened even more by how he helps her fall back in love with herself.
Definitely a recommended read. Thoroughly enjoyable.
March 23, 2025
I love Elizabeth Everett's feminist historical romances but man this one was difficult to get into at first. I felt lost, bored and a bit dumb listening to the first third or so (and I've heard others say the same) but trust me when I say the world building and politics of the period are necessary and the last two thirds will have your swooning and sighing and hoping Phoebe gets her much needed HEA.
I loved that Sam was a clumsy golden retriever type who really balanced out Phoebe's jaded black cat energy. There was also fantastic (and rare in the historical romance realm) self-harm rep (Phoebe dealt with her depression and anxiety by cutting in her youth and has the scars to prove it).
Good on audio and while this does work as a standalone, there are cameos from characters in Everett's previous books. Recommended for fans of authors like Mimi Matthews and Evie Dunmore. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
I loved that Sam was a clumsy golden retriever type who really balanced out Phoebe's jaded black cat energy. There was also fantastic (and rare in the historical romance realm) self-harm rep (Phoebe dealt with her depression and anxiety by cutting in her youth and has the scars to prove it).
Good on audio and while this does work as a standalone, there are cameos from characters in Everett's previous books. Recommended for fans of authors like Mimi Matthews and Evie Dunmore. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy and @prhaudio for a complimentary ALC in exchange for my honest review!
March 5, 2025
The Lady Sparks a Flame is the 5th book from Elizabeth Everett, second in her new series, and my new favorite.
Set in Victorian England, it tells the story of Lady Phoebe Hunt and Mr. Sam Fenley. Phoebe is a “villain” from a previous book banished to America and back in England to help her mother and sister deal with the financial fallout of her tyrannical father’s death. Sam is an entrepreneur from the merchant class and has designs on rising above his station perhaps even with a titled wife. When the opportunity to help Phoebe's family gives him a chance to court Karolina, Phoebe’s sister, he jumps at the chance. As you might imagine, his designs on Karolina don’t last very long and Karolina’s feelings are decidedly unhurt.
As Sam learns more about the Hunt women, and deals with his own preconceived notions about what those with privilege may also endure, Phoebe confronts the awful reality of her past, including the mistakes she made and the horrifying abuse she, her sisters, and mother suffered at the hands of her father.
While Phoebe and Sam navigate cataloging the Hunt home and belongings they realize their attraction is more than it seems. Sam’s joyful, nearly goofy, personality gives Phoebe the opportunity to laugh without restraint for the first time, in, well, perhaps ever. He also gives Phoebe the space she needs to come to terms with the impact the abuse had on her and to forgive herself. Phoebe’s reserve and steadfast loyalty to her mother and sister show Sam that not all families are the same and that smart, brave, complicated, and serious women are in fact some of the best kinds of women.
Everett uses this book (written two years ago mind you) to tackle tariffs, misogyny, incels, and women’s careers along with sisters, friendship, family, forgiveness, and overprotective men (who we love but who need to chill out).
The Lady Sparks a Flame is at times a difficult read. The abuse Phoebe and her family suffered and how Phoebe dealt with it is brutal but also brutally honest. Everett acknowledges the cycle of abuse while giving her characters the opportunity to find their way out of the cycle.
Sam is kind, warm, industrious, ridiculous, forgiving, delightfully clumsy, really a nice himbo/golden retriever mix. Phoebe is smart, crass, sharp, hilarious, self protective, devoted, and powerful. Also she’s older than him. Whoop! Like the rest of Everett’s books, the sex is so good and it’ll make you think. And the epilogue, oh my goodness!!
The Lady Sparks a Flame (and book 1 in this series) is set in the same universe as Everett’s first series. You don’t have to read book one or that first series to enjoy Phoebe and Sam’s story, but you’ll be happy if you do.
Thanks to Everett for this arc!
Set in Victorian England, it tells the story of Lady Phoebe Hunt and Mr. Sam Fenley. Phoebe is a “villain” from a previous book banished to America and back in England to help her mother and sister deal with the financial fallout of her tyrannical father’s death. Sam is an entrepreneur from the merchant class and has designs on rising above his station perhaps even with a titled wife. When the opportunity to help Phoebe's family gives him a chance to court Karolina, Phoebe’s sister, he jumps at the chance. As you might imagine, his designs on Karolina don’t last very long and Karolina’s feelings are decidedly unhurt.
As Sam learns more about the Hunt women, and deals with his own preconceived notions about what those with privilege may also endure, Phoebe confronts the awful reality of her past, including the mistakes she made and the horrifying abuse she, her sisters, and mother suffered at the hands of her father.
While Phoebe and Sam navigate cataloging the Hunt home and belongings they realize their attraction is more than it seems. Sam’s joyful, nearly goofy, personality gives Phoebe the opportunity to laugh without restraint for the first time, in, well, perhaps ever. He also gives Phoebe the space she needs to come to terms with the impact the abuse had on her and to forgive herself. Phoebe’s reserve and steadfast loyalty to her mother and sister show Sam that not all families are the same and that smart, brave, complicated, and serious women are in fact some of the best kinds of women.
Everett uses this book (written two years ago mind you) to tackle tariffs, misogyny, incels, and women’s careers along with sisters, friendship, family, forgiveness, and overprotective men (who we love but who need to chill out).
The Lady Sparks a Flame is at times a difficult read. The abuse Phoebe and her family suffered and how Phoebe dealt with it is brutal but also brutally honest. Everett acknowledges the cycle of abuse while giving her characters the opportunity to find their way out of the cycle.
Sam is kind, warm, industrious, ridiculous, forgiving, delightfully clumsy, really a nice himbo/golden retriever mix. Phoebe is smart, crass, sharp, hilarious, self protective, devoted, and powerful. Also she’s older than him. Whoop! Like the rest of Everett’s books, the sex is so good and it’ll make you think. And the epilogue, oh my goodness!!
The Lady Sparks a Flame (and book 1 in this series) is set in the same universe as Everett’s first series. You don’t have to read book one or that first series to enjoy Phoebe and Sam’s story, but you’ll be happy if you do.
Thanks to Everett for this arc!
April 8, 2025
It took me a little while to get into this one, as the beginning felt quite slow. I’m not sure if it was due to the frequent references to the past and characters I wasn’t familiar with.
While there are plenty of fun and spicy scenes between the hero and heroine that help build the romance, I personally never felt fully invested in their story.
I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the author’s previous books.
**Thank you to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for providing me an advanced copy. All opinions are my own**
While there are plenty of fun and spicy scenes between the hero and heroine that help build the romance, I personally never felt fully invested in their story.
I think I would have enjoyed it more if I had read the author’s previous books.
**Thank you to Berkley Romance and NetGalley for providing me an advanced copy. All opinions are my own**
July 4, 2025
thanks NetGalley for the eARC
⭐️=4.25 | 😘=5 | 🤬=5 | 18+
thoughts: I have distinctly disliked every other Elizabeth Everett novel I’ve read (two others), but this one actually kind of rules?? Phoebe is so three dimensional and vivid, and she and Sam are so deliberately well-matched to heal each other, and all of their conflict feels real and earned and not contrived for the sake of plot progression. glad I didn’t give up on you, Elizabeth Everett!! this is very good!!
⭐️=4.25 | 😘=5 | 🤬=5 | 18+
thoughts: I have distinctly disliked every other Elizabeth Everett novel I’ve read (two others), but this one actually kind of rules?? Phoebe is so three dimensional and vivid, and she and Sam are so deliberately well-matched to heal each other, and all of their conflict feels real and earned and not contrived for the sake of plot progression. glad I didn’t give up on you, Elizabeth Everett!! this is very good!!
October 26, 2025
tbh i completely lost interest in this after about the 50% mark. Phoebe and Sam are really interesting characters- I really love a himbo who loves smart women, and Phoebe being the "villainess" of Everett's other series is pretty unique. But honestly, all the emotional growth happened in the first half and the second was just miscommunication and "self-sacrifice" and it lost me. Once they left the creepy old house and all the secrets were revealed everything just got boring.
November 28, 2024
Elizabeth Everett did not take the easy road with this book: casting a very difficult heroine who majorly messed up and deeply hurt and betrayed the adored main characters of her previous series is not for a faint of heart writer! The beginning of the book was slower for me and I worried if it would all come together as a believable love story- the heroine, Phoebe, is paired with a bright sunshine younger man hero, who initially contrives to court Phoebe’s younger sister, thus forcing them all in close proximity. Thankfully Everett does not take the courting sister plot very far (they are just clearly incompatible and the sister pretty quickly sees where the hero’s heart truly lies!)- and while there were some shenanigan side plots with intrigue I didn’t find overly compelling, the book really clicked once Phoebe and Sam are alone and intimate at length. And here is where I applaud Everett for her depth as a Romance Writer, who knows that intimate scenes are there to drive the plot and relationships in an extraordinary way that only the Romance genre can pull off. I loved the way Phoebe and Sam came to each other, and where they ended up especially! I am really amazed that a book that could be weighed down with tragic backstory for the sake of tragedy, or unlikeable villainy for the sake of villainy, or a tidy redemptive arc, eschews these easy traps and gives us a very real, compelling portrait of two complex individuals with complex lives committing to each other in love. A gorgeous book, and enormous thanks for this advanced reader copy.
April 21, 2025
Review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2025/0...
Set in 1845, The Lady Sparks a Flame follows Lady Phoebe Hunt—former founder of Athena’s Retreat, daughter of a tyrant Marquess, and infamous exile. After betraying her friends Violet and Letty, Phoebe was banished to America. But now, with her abusive father dead and her family drowning in debt, Phoebe returns to London—uncalled but determined—to settle the estate, secure her mother’s future, and find a respectable match for her sister, Karolina. She fully intends to return to America, where she’s carved out a life of her own… until Samuel Fenley offers help too good to discard.
Sam is charming, clumsy, and wildly successful in business. But in a world obsessed with titles, he sees marrying Karolina as his ticket to true power. Falling for “the Villainess of Majestic Proportions”? Definitely not part of the plan. And then there is Anti-Corn Law unrest throughout the London that wouldn’t let Phoebe free of her past crime.
What unfolds is a slow-burn, emotionally complex romance, with a heroine one can root for and a hero who earns every inch of her trust.
The Lady Sparks is wrapped in themes of redemption, abuse, resilience, and perseverance. The question isn’t just whether Sam can melt the ice queen Lady Phoebe, but whether Phoebe can forgive herself, trust and choose love. This installment leans less into the Women in STEM vibes the series is known for, focusing instead on Phoebe’s haunted past and how deeply it shaped her.
Much of the story is set in Prentiss Manor—gloomy, cold, decaying, and dripping with ghosts both literal and emotional. The atmosphere is eerie and claustrophobic, mirroring the pain runs in veins of Hunt women. It’s heavy to read their past and it was painful to see how dire women’s situation was in that era, living under men’s boot, where all their dreams and happiness were squashed and if they dared to remove from that position they were dismissed under the term female hysteria and threatened to be sent to asylum and only way out for a daughter was either marriage or death.
But the author knows when to let you breathe. Sam brings light and levity, and their banter is filled with wit and warmth. There’s enough comic relief to balance the darkness, and the romance itself becomes a lifeline—for both Phoebe and the reader.
Phoebe is phenomenal. She’s smart, sharp-tongued, brave, and deeply scarred. Her time in America changed her for the better, and her refusal to revert to the woman society tried to break is admirable. Her apology to Violet and Letty is sincere and moving. Watching Sam slowly chip away at her defenses is incredibly satisfying.
Sam, meanwhile, is a golden retriever in human form. His initial obsession with status rubbed me the wrong way, but his arc is handled beautifully. It’s clearly very early he found his match in Phoebe rather than her sister. Her truly sees her and her world. His persistence, tenderness, and unwavering belief in Phoebe won me over.
The secondary cast is excellent. Lady Hunt’s quiet endurance is powerful. Karolina is much sharper than she first appears. The returning characters—Grantham, Greycliff, Arthur, Violet, Letty—all bring depth and heart. And Sam’s family? Pureness in love and support.
The climax is thrilling, with a runaway sequence that finally gives Phoebe and Sam more time together and that made them take leap (literally) and find happiness together in the end.
Overall, The Lady Sparks a Flame is a touching, layered, and joyful historical romance. It tackles trauma, redemption, and the resilience of women with grace and heart.
Set in 1845, The Lady Sparks a Flame follows Lady Phoebe Hunt—former founder of Athena’s Retreat, daughter of a tyrant Marquess, and infamous exile. After betraying her friends Violet and Letty, Phoebe was banished to America. But now, with her abusive father dead and her family drowning in debt, Phoebe returns to London—uncalled but determined—to settle the estate, secure her mother’s future, and find a respectable match for her sister, Karolina. She fully intends to return to America, where she’s carved out a life of her own… until Samuel Fenley offers help too good to discard.
Sam is charming, clumsy, and wildly successful in business. But in a world obsessed with titles, he sees marrying Karolina as his ticket to true power. Falling for “the Villainess of Majestic Proportions”? Definitely not part of the plan. And then there is Anti-Corn Law unrest throughout the London that wouldn’t let Phoebe free of her past crime.
What unfolds is a slow-burn, emotionally complex romance, with a heroine one can root for and a hero who earns every inch of her trust.
The Lady Sparks is wrapped in themes of redemption, abuse, resilience, and perseverance. The question isn’t just whether Sam can melt the ice queen Lady Phoebe, but whether Phoebe can forgive herself, trust and choose love. This installment leans less into the Women in STEM vibes the series is known for, focusing instead on Phoebe’s haunted past and how deeply it shaped her.
Much of the story is set in Prentiss Manor—gloomy, cold, decaying, and dripping with ghosts both literal and emotional. The atmosphere is eerie and claustrophobic, mirroring the pain runs in veins of Hunt women. It’s heavy to read their past and it was painful to see how dire women’s situation was in that era, living under men’s boot, where all their dreams and happiness were squashed and if they dared to remove from that position they were dismissed under the term female hysteria and threatened to be sent to asylum and only way out for a daughter was either marriage or death.
But the author knows when to let you breathe. Sam brings light and levity, and their banter is filled with wit and warmth. There’s enough comic relief to balance the darkness, and the romance itself becomes a lifeline—for both Phoebe and the reader.
Phoebe is phenomenal. She’s smart, sharp-tongued, brave, and deeply scarred. Her time in America changed her for the better, and her refusal to revert to the woman society tried to break is admirable. Her apology to Violet and Letty is sincere and moving. Watching Sam slowly chip away at her defenses is incredibly satisfying.
Sam, meanwhile, is a golden retriever in human form. His initial obsession with status rubbed me the wrong way, but his arc is handled beautifully. It’s clearly very early he found his match in Phoebe rather than her sister. Her truly sees her and her world. His persistence, tenderness, and unwavering belief in Phoebe won me over.
The secondary cast is excellent. Lady Hunt’s quiet endurance is powerful. Karolina is much sharper than she first appears. The returning characters—Grantham, Greycliff, Arthur, Violet, Letty—all bring depth and heart. And Sam’s family? Pureness in love and support.
The climax is thrilling, with a runaway sequence that finally gives Phoebe and Sam more time together and that made them take leap (literally) and find happiness together in the end.
Overall, The Lady Sparks a Flame is a touching, layered, and joyful historical romance. It tackles trauma, redemption, and the resilience of women with grace and heart.
March 20, 2025
Phoebe Hunt never thought she’d return to England, but after her father’s passing, she’s back to settle her family’s estate. She has a lot to make up for and hopes to set things right before returning to America. What she didn’t expect was falling for Samuel Fenley.
Though Phoebe comes from wealth and Sam built his own fortune, both feel like outsiders in their world. Their attraction is undeniable, but Phoebe struggles to believe that Sam’s kindness is genuine—she’s used to people wanting something from her. As she works to mend relationships, she realizes the biggest challenge is forgiving herself.
Phoebe is a strong woman, but a difficult childhood and a cruel father left her with anger and regrets. Her path to redemption isn’t easy, but with the love of her friends—and possibly Sam—she might finally find peace.
This story shines with Phoebe’s growth, rich friendships, and sharp dialogue. The ending is beautiful, with Sam showing Phoebe what it truly means to love with your whole heart. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Though Phoebe comes from wealth and Sam built his own fortune, both feel like outsiders in their world. Their attraction is undeniable, but Phoebe struggles to believe that Sam’s kindness is genuine—she’s used to people wanting something from her. As she works to mend relationships, she realizes the biggest challenge is forgiving herself.
Phoebe is a strong woman, but a difficult childhood and a cruel father left her with anger and regrets. Her path to redemption isn’t easy, but with the love of her friends—and possibly Sam—she might finally find peace.
This story shines with Phoebe’s growth, rich friendships, and sharp dialogue. The ending is beautiful, with Sam showing Phoebe what it truly means to love with your whole heart. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I wouldd recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-woman in stem
-the characters we loved from other books
-opposites attract
-slow burn
-close proximity
-political intrigue
Elizabeth Everett's books always feel like an act of rebellion of just screaming against the patriarchy and the lady Sparks a Flame was no different. About how the impact of men as we grow up continues to reverberate throughout our life and how it also impact people in the family differently. I really enjoyed how we got a different look at Phoebe who was such a cmplicated character from other books in this series. Contrasting her experiences and her family with Sam. The trust they put in each other, the slow burn as they fell. I just loved everything about this book and the world Elizabeth created and I can't wait to read whatever she writes next.
I wouldd recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-woman in stem
-the characters we loved from other books
-opposites attract
-slow burn
-close proximity
-political intrigue
Elizabeth Everett's books always feel like an act of rebellion of just screaming against the patriarchy and the lady Sparks a Flame was no different. About how the impact of men as we grow up continues to reverberate throughout our life and how it also impact people in the family differently. I really enjoyed how we got a different look at Phoebe who was such a cmplicated character from other books in this series. Contrasting her experiences and her family with Sam. The trust they put in each other, the slow burn as they fell. I just loved everything about this book and the world Elizabeth created and I can't wait to read whatever she writes next.
April 8, 2025
Elizabeth Everett is so crafty. How did she take the villain from her past series and make me root for her in this one? Phoebe was the absolute worst in the last series. Now, we get to see the past that made her the person she is. She has been through abuse and self injury. Her standard tactic is to hurt others before they hurt her.
Sam is the golden retriever who has been very successful in business, but still finds his lack of a title a problem. His sister was a main character in the last series and he played an interesting role in several of those books. It was great to see him, move into the main carriage role in this book.
So we have a grumpy sunshine situation where the FMC is a villain, and the MMC is a successful, optimistic, good guy. One of his funny traits is that he is accident, prone, and clumsy.
All this book absolutely stands alone, it is so much more delightful if you have Read Elizabeth’s other books. As usual, her beautiful word choices make you stop and save her certain lines and phrases.
One of my favorite aspects of Everett’s work is at her third act break ups are not tied to miscommunication. In most cases, they’re due to excellent communication but different goals or beliefs that need to be adjusted for one’s loved one.
I was given early access to this by the publisher, but the opinions in this review are my own.
Sam is the golden retriever who has been very successful in business, but still finds his lack of a title a problem. His sister was a main character in the last series and he played an interesting role in several of those books. It was great to see him, move into the main carriage role in this book.
So we have a grumpy sunshine situation where the FMC is a villain, and the MMC is a successful, optimistic, good guy. One of his funny traits is that he is accident, prone, and clumsy.
All this book absolutely stands alone, it is so much more delightful if you have Read Elizabeth’s other books. As usual, her beautiful word choices make you stop and save her certain lines and phrases.
One of my favorite aspects of Everett’s work is at her third act break ups are not tied to miscommunication. In most cases, they’re due to excellent communication but different goals or beliefs that need to be adjusted for one’s loved one.
I was given early access to this by the publisher, but the opinions in this review are my own.
March 30, 2025
OH MY GOSH THIS BOOK. Incredible on so many levels. A masterclass in writing a villain's HEA. Phoebe was prickly and wonderful and so relatable; I suspect some will find her unlikeable, but for anyone who has been through some ish, she is a kindred spirit. Sam is an incredible counterpart, and the whole book is delightful and bracing and everything I want in a romance.
April 25, 2025
The Lady Sparks a Flame makes you wonder why have we been redeeming men who have been terrible because they had a traumatic past all this time when we could have been redeeming women who had traumatic pasts and made a small portion of those mistakes? I loved getting to know Phoebe better and see her through Sam's eyes. Sometimes someone else seeing your trauma can help you learn to forgive yourself.
One thing I loved about this book was the representation of non suicidal self harm. There are many ways in which I am not like Phoebe. She is more outgoing and clever than I am. She also has dealt with a lot more trauma. However, I do know what it is to be in incredible emotional pain and be willing to do anything to make it stop. That kind of pain leaves scars whether someone makes them physical or not. I think this story shows that beautifully.
I highly recommend both the books in this series and I think this book in particular is better if you have read Elizabeth's earlier secret scientists of london series. It is not necessary but provides good background. Also why not spend some time with very proper ladies who may or may not be conducting science experiments, and occasionally creating explosions?
I listened to the audiobook version of this title and adored it! Elizabeth Jasicki does the audiobook narration and she is a historical romance pro. Readers may recognize her from Evie Dunmore's league of extraordinary women series.
Thanks to Berkley Romance for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
One thing I loved about this book was the representation of non suicidal self harm. There are many ways in which I am not like Phoebe. She is more outgoing and clever than I am. She also has dealt with a lot more trauma. However, I do know what it is to be in incredible emotional pain and be willing to do anything to make it stop. That kind of pain leaves scars whether someone makes them physical or not. I think this story shows that beautifully.
I highly recommend both the books in this series and I think this book in particular is better if you have read Elizabeth's earlier secret scientists of london series. It is not necessary but provides good background. Also why not spend some time with very proper ladies who may or may not be conducting science experiments, and occasionally creating explosions?
I listened to the audiobook version of this title and adored it! Elizabeth Jasicki does the audiobook narration and she is a historical romance pro. Readers may recognize her from Evie Dunmore's league of extraordinary women series.
Thanks to Berkley Romance for providing me with an ARC. All opinions are my own.
September 15, 2024
Loud enough to reach the sky.
~
I still don’t even have words. This just might be a my favorite book Elizabeth has written so far. The emotions it dragged out of me were unmatched. The journey into Phoebe’s past and watching her finally let go and accept the love given to her was beautiful and heart-wrenching and I loved it. Sam was impeccably written, I loved him being his cheerful and clumsy self (perfectly placed clumsy anecdotes, truly), but seeing him go through his own emotional journey right along with it was incredible. Letty and Violet? Even Grantham, Grey, and Arthur? The roles they played in this adventure of a book were true to character and perfectly planted, and Sam’s family and their dynamic added an extra fun layer to the story. The closer I got to the end, the faster the pages were flipping because I was shocked and needed to know what was going to happen next. And I probably yelled twenty times about how I wanted them to just to kiss already. While this is the second book in a spin-off from the Secret Scientists of London trilogy, you can read it by itself and if this is the one you pick up by EE, you will not be sorry at all. So. Well. Done!
Review to come but for now: OH MY GOD I THINK THIS IS ELIZABETH’S BEST BOOK YET! I loved every second of it, I laughed, I cried, and she’s in Scotland and I don’t know what time zone that is so I can’t scream to her about it yet! (9/2)
~
I still don’t even have words. This just might be a my favorite book Elizabeth has written so far. The emotions it dragged out of me were unmatched. The journey into Phoebe’s past and watching her finally let go and accept the love given to her was beautiful and heart-wrenching and I loved it. Sam was impeccably written, I loved him being his cheerful and clumsy self (perfectly placed clumsy anecdotes, truly), but seeing him go through his own emotional journey right along with it was incredible. Letty and Violet? Even Grantham, Grey, and Arthur? The roles they played in this adventure of a book were true to character and perfectly planted, and Sam’s family and their dynamic added an extra fun layer to the story. The closer I got to the end, the faster the pages were flipping because I was shocked and needed to know what was going to happen next. And I probably yelled twenty times about how I wanted them to just to kiss already. While this is the second book in a spin-off from the Secret Scientists of London trilogy, you can read it by itself and if this is the one you pick up by EE, you will not be sorry at all. So. Well. Done!
Review to come but for now: OH MY GOD I THINK THIS IS ELIZABETH’S BEST BOOK YET! I loved every second of it, I laughed, I cried, and she’s in Scotland and I don’t know what time zone that is so I can’t scream to her about it yet! (9/2)
March 12, 2025
3.7 stars
Everett really can write a strong, smart woman in a historical. And in this iteration, a really charming, flirty, golden retriever of a man who I was in love with.
Lady Phoebe Hunt was exiled to America after an invention of hers kills a man (it's a little confusing) and she's back because her terrible dad has died and she's trying to help her mom and sister with their new impoverished life. Sam Fenley is rich - but he's not nobility, he got his money by *gasp* working. He really wants the aristocracy to take him seriously so what if he marries Phoebe's sister? Oh wait, he actually doesn't like the sister, he's taken by the very snarly racoon of a woman that is Phoebe. I really really love Sam. He is so easygoing and also hot. And really loves his sisters. And all he wants in the whole world is for Phoebe to feel safe and supported after a really awful upbringing.
I will note that I did read the first in this series but this book heavily relies on characters from another series I have not read and I oftentimes felt absolutely lost because it was assuming a lot of knowledge for those characters that I had just never met before. I think it would have been better to have read that series first.
Thank you to Everett, Berkley, and NetGalley for the advanced review copy. The Lady Sparks a Flame is out March 25, 2025.
Everett really can write a strong, smart woman in a historical. And in this iteration, a really charming, flirty, golden retriever of a man who I was in love with.
Lady Phoebe Hunt was exiled to America after an invention of hers kills a man (it's a little confusing) and she's back because her terrible dad has died and she's trying to help her mom and sister with their new impoverished life. Sam Fenley is rich - but he's not nobility, he got his money by *gasp* working. He really wants the aristocracy to take him seriously so what if he marries Phoebe's sister? Oh wait, he actually doesn't like the sister, he's taken by the very snarly racoon of a woman that is Phoebe. I really really love Sam. He is so easygoing and also hot. And really loves his sisters. And all he wants in the whole world is for Phoebe to feel safe and supported after a really awful upbringing.
I will note that I did read the first in this series but this book heavily relies on characters from another series I have not read and I oftentimes felt absolutely lost because it was assuming a lot of knowledge for those characters that I had just never met before. I think it would have been better to have read that series first.
Thank you to Everett, Berkley, and NetGalley for the advanced review copy. The Lady Sparks a Flame is out March 25, 2025.
February 25, 2025
ice queen x golden retriever dynamic wins again!!!
June 24, 2025
The Lady Sparks a Flame is a great historical romance with layered characters, a heartfelt love story, and meaningful messages about forgiveness, resilience, and self-worth.
Phoebe’s story was so interesting, and I was skeptical at first because she had a villainous reputation. She’s a woman haunted by mistakes made in the past, and the guilt weighs heavily on her and shapes her. Fiercely independent but a bit unlikable at first, she takes a while to warm up to. But behind her tough exterior is so much more. You see her need to atone while still protecting herself and how she pushes others away before they have the chance to hurt her. Through it all, she is strong and determined, and even when she believes she doesn’t deserve happiness, she keeps going, and she faces the consequences of her past actions.
And I love Sam! He’s such a great balance to Phoebe. He’s ambitious and determined, and he’s so patient with Phoebe. I love that about him. The way he saw past her icy exterior was super swoon-worthy. Their romance was great. It was a slow build, which made sense considering it definitely took time for them to trust each other. I loved how their connection grew and how they slowly began to share their vulnerabilities and let down their walls.
The story is a bit of a slow build overall, but the stakes felt high, not just because of the emotional risks Phoebe and Sam had to take, but also because of the external threats they faced. Phoebe’s past comes back to haunt her with new accusations and threats that jeopardize her future, and loving and trusting Sam means opening her heart after years of convincing herself she is unworthy of love. For Sam, it meant risking everything – rejection, love, and possibly his own well-being.
I really enjoyed this read. It was emotional and romantic with well-layered characters, especially Phoebe, and I really liked the themes of starting over, forgiveness, female empowerment, and love. I think it’s so interesting that the author shows many societal and gender-related struggles that people went through at this time and still go through today, (though it’s actually kind of bothersome that we still face the same issues and prejudices).
Phoebe’s story was so interesting, and I was skeptical at first because she had a villainous reputation. She’s a woman haunted by mistakes made in the past, and the guilt weighs heavily on her and shapes her. Fiercely independent but a bit unlikable at first, she takes a while to warm up to. But behind her tough exterior is so much more. You see her need to atone while still protecting herself and how she pushes others away before they have the chance to hurt her. Through it all, she is strong and determined, and even when she believes she doesn’t deserve happiness, she keeps going, and she faces the consequences of her past actions.
And I love Sam! He’s such a great balance to Phoebe. He’s ambitious and determined, and he’s so patient with Phoebe. I love that about him. The way he saw past her icy exterior was super swoon-worthy. Their romance was great. It was a slow build, which made sense considering it definitely took time for them to trust each other. I loved how their connection grew and how they slowly began to share their vulnerabilities and let down their walls.
The story is a bit of a slow build overall, but the stakes felt high, not just because of the emotional risks Phoebe and Sam had to take, but also because of the external threats they faced. Phoebe’s past comes back to haunt her with new accusations and threats that jeopardize her future, and loving and trusting Sam means opening her heart after years of convincing herself she is unworthy of love. For Sam, it meant risking everything – rejection, love, and possibly his own well-being.
I really enjoyed this read. It was emotional and romantic with well-layered characters, especially Phoebe, and I really liked the themes of starting over, forgiveness, female empowerment, and love. I think it’s so interesting that the author shows many societal and gender-related struggles that people went through at this time and still go through today, (though it’s actually kind of bothersome that we still face the same issues and prejudices).
March 24, 2025
The Lady Sparks a Flame by Elizabeth Everett ❤️
The Damsels of Discovery, Book 2
Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Historical Romance
ARC Review
384 pages
🗓️ March 25
❤️grumpy x sunshine
❤️golden retriever MMC
❤️(in recovery) morally gray FMC
❤️maybe sister’s suitor
❤️close proximity
📍“All she’d wanted was to live loud enough that no one could erase her.”
📍“You are compelling for the whole of you, not only the part that makes me laugh.”
Can villains have redemption? They sure can if written by Elizabeth Everett. I deeply regret not having read the other previous series to which this book connects heavily. Not that it was needed but I wanted to feel that same feeling of pleasant recognition I experienced every time they mentioned America or anything else related to the first book in this series of interconnected standalones.
I didn’t particularly connect with Phoebe. I didn’t particularly care for her villainous past. And yet, there I was crying at midnight reading the last few chapters of this book.
I didn’t particularly care about Sam’s desire to marry Phoebe’s sister. I even found it quite dragging. And yet his conversation with her got me yet again in all my feels.
The reason is quite simple: Elizabeth Everett. If you never read one of her books let me explain. She is one of the best writers of historical romance I’ve ever came across. The way she carries a story makes it absolutely impossible to stay away; your heart gets immediately invested, even with less likable characters. You can’t put it down, you can’t turn off your heart.
Now, I must go back and read about Violet and Sam’s sister 😁
The Damsels of Discovery, Book 2
Interconnected Standalone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Adult • Historical Romance
ARC Review
384 pages
🗓️ March 25
❤️grumpy x sunshine
❤️golden retriever MMC
❤️(in recovery) morally gray FMC
❤️maybe sister’s suitor
❤️close proximity
📍“All she’d wanted was to live loud enough that no one could erase her.”
📍“You are compelling for the whole of you, not only the part that makes me laugh.”
Can villains have redemption? They sure can if written by Elizabeth Everett. I deeply regret not having read the other previous series to which this book connects heavily. Not that it was needed but I wanted to feel that same feeling of pleasant recognition I experienced every time they mentioned America or anything else related to the first book in this series of interconnected standalones.
I didn’t particularly connect with Phoebe. I didn’t particularly care for her villainous past. And yet, there I was crying at midnight reading the last few chapters of this book.
I didn’t particularly care about Sam’s desire to marry Phoebe’s sister. I even found it quite dragging. And yet his conversation with her got me yet again in all my feels.
The reason is quite simple: Elizabeth Everett. If you never read one of her books let me explain. She is one of the best writers of historical romance I’ve ever came across. The way she carries a story makes it absolutely impossible to stay away; your heart gets immediately invested, even with less likable characters. You can’t put it down, you can’t turn off your heart.
Now, I must go back and read about Violet and Sam’s sister 😁
March 1, 2025
I love this book so much it was a lil different from what I was expecting of this historical romance.
📌The book touches some pretty heavy topics like self harm and Mental Health so I will recommend to check for triggers if you have any.
Also what I was not expecting was for this book to have a gothic feeling it gave me Jane Eyre and Wuyhering Heights vibes. But it was also a very fun book, Sam has such a charisma I just love him so much. I love this quote of him when he was talking about Phoebe “Imagine the set of ballocks on the man who tried to court her sister, Lady Phoebe. Ha. That woman was a dragon; beautiful scales on the outside that were hard enough to break steel. Passionate fire on the inside, ready to burn anyone too stupid to spar with her”
And this brings me to the next point, tell me why Phoebe reminded me so much of Nesta from ACOSF but I did like more Phoebe’s character I love how she explained the reasons for every of her character decisions it help me to understand her character more.
The romance was such a slow burn I loved it. I definitely need to read the first book to know what events they were talking about throughout the whole book.
💗Thanks to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for the gifted ARC.
📌The book touches some pretty heavy topics like self harm and Mental Health so I will recommend to check for triggers if you have any.
Also what I was not expecting was for this book to have a gothic feeling it gave me Jane Eyre and Wuyhering Heights vibes. But it was also a very fun book, Sam has such a charisma I just love him so much. I love this quote of him when he was talking about Phoebe “Imagine the set of ballocks on the man who tried to court her sister, Lady Phoebe. Ha. That woman was a dragon; beautiful scales on the outside that were hard enough to break steel. Passionate fire on the inside, ready to burn anyone too stupid to spar with her”
And this brings me to the next point, tell me why Phoebe reminded me so much of Nesta from ACOSF but I did like more Phoebe’s character I love how she explained the reasons for every of her character decisions it help me to understand her character more.
The romance was such a slow burn I loved it. I definitely need to read the first book to know what events they were talking about throughout the whole book.
💗Thanks to Berkley Romance and Netgalley for the gifted ARC.
December 11, 2024
2024 is an year where I've been desperately missing reading interconnected standalones in a series, because well, they feel like home🥹 and FINALLY, finally, a series with a cast of characters i desperately want to read stories about is here. I'll be reading all the books in elizabeth everett's backlist cause I fell in love with the fun characterization and unique dynamic between characters 🥹
I'm so grateful to samphoebe for showing me just how wonderful this authors work can be. they'll always be special for me🩷🩷🩷
thank you so much to netgalley and penguin for sending me an ARC🫶
full review to come🫶
I'm so grateful to samphoebe for showing me just how wonderful this authors work can be. they'll always be special for me🩷🩷🩷
thank you so much to netgalley and penguin for sending me an ARC🫶
full review to come🫶
January 6, 2025
How the author could take a villainous character from a previous series and make her a sympathetic heroine in this book, I will never understand. But that’s what we have here. This is such an enjoyable book, lighthearted while also heartbreaking. And I love that the MMC is such a golden retriever hero, he’s literally tripping over his own feet like an overgrown puppy. Thanks to Berkley for the ARC.
February 2, 2025
I would do anything for Phoebe. I don’t think I’ve ever seen as much of myself in a romance novel heroine, from her flinty sharp rage to her deep conviction that she is unworthy of love. Elizabeth Everett wrote about self-harm and the lasting pain of abuse with compassion and tact, and Sam is the perfect lover for a woman so fiery and hurt. I’d cross the Atlantic for both of them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 30, 2024
I love the world and characters that Elizabeth Everett has created. It feels like slipping back into a friend group of my own every time I get to read about them. Phoebe and Sam’s story is handled with such care, and their love is gentle while brimming with passion and joy. It was healing to read how they opened up to one another and to be privy to their conversations and evolution as individuals and as a couple. And the ending was perfection. I can’t wait to see whose story is next!
Thanks to Berkley and Edelweiss for the ARC.
Thanks to Berkley and Edelweiss for the ARC.
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