What do you think?
Rate this book
An Unexpected Journey: A Regency Hobbit Retelling
A heritage neither of them desire, a wrong to right. A chance to end a family curse...
When strangers tumble through the doors of the once resplendent Grandview Estate, Lady Laura Tamlow is pulled into a rather unexpected journey, away from the village she's never left, along with a gentleman unlike any she's ever known.
Jonathan Canfield is out of options. And he'd do anything to restore his family's fortunes in order to keep them from poverty, including roping Lady Tamlow into playing the part of thief. They must reclaim both his and her family jewels that were stolen the night of the fated Grand Masquerade of 1770, where both the Canfields and the Tamlows fell far from society's good graces. If only his thief weren't so lovely, he'd be able to focus on the mission without distraction.
But there's a bigger problem at hand. The jewels reside at Lombard Park under the eye of Lord Herrington, a greedy dragon of a man who knows he's about to die. Yet he has bigger claims than they ever imagined and attempts to steal something far more valuable than family jewels. With deceptions afoot, will Jonathan ever see Lady Tamlow again?
When strangers tumble through the doors of the once resplendent Grandview Estate, Lady Laura Tamlow is pulled into a rather unexpected journey, away from the village she's never left, along with a gentleman unlike any she's ever known.
Jonathan Canfield is out of options. And he'd do anything to restore his family's fortunes in order to keep them from poverty, including roping Lady Tamlow into playing the part of thief. They must reclaim both his and her family jewels that were stolen the night of the fated Grand Masquerade of 1770, where both the Canfields and the Tamlows fell far from society's good graces. If only his thief weren't so lovely, he'd be able to focus on the mission without distraction.
But there's a bigger problem at hand. The jewels reside at Lombard Park under the eye of Lord Herrington, a greedy dragon of a man who knows he's about to die. Yet he has bigger claims than they ever imagined and attempts to steal something far more valuable than family jewels. With deceptions afoot, will Jonathan ever see Lady Tamlow again?
257 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 28, 2024
26 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 3, 2024
I expected An Unexpected Journey: A Regency Hobbit Retelling to be completely wonderful, and it was! Ann Elizabeth Fryer has delighted and entertained me once again. She did an amazing job creating a Regency romance into a novel that is reminiscent of The Hobbit. However, this is not just for fans of The Hobbit; I think all Regency romance lovers will love it!
Lady Laura Tamlow’s life seems idyllic. She has a cozy parlor where she reads and drinks tea, but that’s about all she has. Her mother and brother have basically abandoned her; the family home has fallen into disrepair, and despite being titled, the family have little money. Jonathan Canfield also has little money, and his family is deep in debt. He needs Laura’s help to recover what was lost to his family many years ago. And this is where the unexpected journey begins.
Laura and Jonathan’s “meet-cute” is really entertaining since she meets some entertaining characters before and after meeting Jonathan. I laughed out loud and loved it! I loved the entire journey that this novel takes the characters on. Their journey definitely has some nods to The Hobbit, and it’s delightful. The characters are so well-written! I adored the “good guys” and abhorred the “bad guys.” I would love to (and hope to!) see many of these characters in another novel. The story is mainly plot-driven, and the plot is wonderfully entertaining! I just can’t say enough good stuff about this novel! (But if I say too much, it’ll spoil the book for you!)
I highly recommend An Unexpected Journey to Regency romance lovers! Its well-written characters, thrilling journey, unexpected twists, and good triumphing over evil make it a must read! 5 huge stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Lady Laura Tamlow’s life seems idyllic. She has a cozy parlor where she reads and drinks tea, but that’s about all she has. Her mother and brother have basically abandoned her; the family home has fallen into disrepair, and despite being titled, the family have little money. Jonathan Canfield also has little money, and his family is deep in debt. He needs Laura’s help to recover what was lost to his family many years ago. And this is where the unexpected journey begins.
Laura and Jonathan’s “meet-cute” is really entertaining since she meets some entertaining characters before and after meeting Jonathan. I laughed out loud and loved it! I loved the entire journey that this novel takes the characters on. Their journey definitely has some nods to The Hobbit, and it’s delightful. The characters are so well-written! I adored the “good guys” and abhorred the “bad guys.” I would love to (and hope to!) see many of these characters in another novel. The story is mainly plot-driven, and the plot is wonderfully entertaining! I just can’t say enough good stuff about this novel! (But if I say too much, it’ll spoil the book for you!)
I highly recommend An Unexpected Journey to Regency romance lovers! Its well-written characters, thrilling journey, unexpected twists, and good triumphing over evil make it a must read! 5 huge stars!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 3, 2024
Lady Laura Tamlow doesn’t have a splendid estate in Grandview, but it’s hers. Her surroundings may not be luxurious, but she finds happiness there. Her orderly routine is upended when an elderly woman shows up unexpectedly and seems to know more about Grandview, and indeed, Laura’s family, than a stranger should.
Jonathan Canfield’s family is also in straitened circumstances, and there are men clamoring for payment he can’t provide. There is one last, desperate option available to him, and it involves Laura. Will she agree to help him reclaim family treasure, stolen from them by a man so powerful he’s almost untouchable?
This was the first of Ann Elizabeth Fryer’s books I’ve read, and I really enjoyed it. I’ve long been a fan of Tolkien’s work, so when I saw this was billed as a Regency Hobbit retelling, I had to pick it up.
The characters are well written. Laura is everything a lady should be – kind, thoughtful, gentle. But there’s more to her than meets the eye. Jonathan is a gentleman of character, even when his finances are tight. And oh, I can relate to financial difficulties. This common thread between the characters and me made it easy to like them and cheer for them. Jonathan’s grandmother alternately made me want to hug her and ask her what in the actual heck she was doing, and his sister Melissa, well, let’s just say she made some choices she’s going to have to live with.
Lord Herrington, the dragon of a man who will demand more than anyone dreams, is deliciously creepy. I picture him in my mind almost like Jabba the Hutt – grotesque, but so powerful that no one (well, almost no one) dares cross him. I found myself wondering more than once how in the world Laura and Jonathan could possibly get ahead of his game.
And of course, the romance is just lovely. Is there a touch of insta-love about it? Yes. But shared difficulties can often cause an initial attraction to bloom into so much more, and so it happens here. Jonathan and Laura realize that some things are more important than worldly treasure and must not be sacrificed for financial gain.
My one little quibble was that Fryer’s writing style, at least here, had a noticeable number of sentences beginning with verbs rather than subjects. “Was a strange emotion, this.” “Would bring grief upon grief.” “Was a rich one of the like I’d never tasted.” Had it been occasional, it wouldn’t have bothered me. But it was frequent enough that it caught my attention and pulled me out of my enjoyment of the story. This is the only one of her books I’ve read, so I don’t know if this is the norm, or if it’s an effect peculiar to Regency romances. I don’t like to take off stars for grammatical/stylistic concerns, but this bothered me enough to take off half a star. Still, 4.5 rounds up to 5! It’s a good story, and if you aren’t a nitpicky word weirdo like I am, you may not even notice.
I enjoyed the story, and I’d like to read more of Fryer’s books. I recommend this for fans of the Hobbit, a good Regency romance, or both.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to provide a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
Jonathan Canfield’s family is also in straitened circumstances, and there are men clamoring for payment he can’t provide. There is one last, desperate option available to him, and it involves Laura. Will she agree to help him reclaim family treasure, stolen from them by a man so powerful he’s almost untouchable?
This was the first of Ann Elizabeth Fryer’s books I’ve read, and I really enjoyed it. I’ve long been a fan of Tolkien’s work, so when I saw this was billed as a Regency Hobbit retelling, I had to pick it up.
The characters are well written. Laura is everything a lady should be – kind, thoughtful, gentle. But there’s more to her than meets the eye. Jonathan is a gentleman of character, even when his finances are tight. And oh, I can relate to financial difficulties. This common thread between the characters and me made it easy to like them and cheer for them. Jonathan’s grandmother alternately made me want to hug her and ask her what in the actual heck she was doing, and his sister Melissa, well, let’s just say she made some choices she’s going to have to live with.
Lord Herrington, the dragon of a man who will demand more than anyone dreams, is deliciously creepy. I picture him in my mind almost like Jabba the Hutt – grotesque, but so powerful that no one (well, almost no one) dares cross him. I found myself wondering more than once how in the world Laura and Jonathan could possibly get ahead of his game.
And of course, the romance is just lovely. Is there a touch of insta-love about it? Yes. But shared difficulties can often cause an initial attraction to bloom into so much more, and so it happens here. Jonathan and Laura realize that some things are more important than worldly treasure and must not be sacrificed for financial gain.
My one little quibble was that Fryer’s writing style, at least here, had a noticeable number of sentences beginning with verbs rather than subjects. “Was a strange emotion, this.” “Would bring grief upon grief.” “Was a rich one of the like I’d never tasted.” Had it been occasional, it wouldn’t have bothered me. But it was frequent enough that it caught my attention and pulled me out of my enjoyment of the story. This is the only one of her books I’ve read, so I don’t know if this is the norm, or if it’s an effect peculiar to Regency romances. I don’t like to take off stars for grammatical/stylistic concerns, but this bothered me enough to take off half a star. Still, 4.5 rounds up to 5! It’s a good story, and if you aren’t a nitpicky word weirdo like I am, you may not even notice.
I enjoyed the story, and I’d like to read more of Fryer’s books. I recommend this for fans of the Hobbit, a good Regency romance, or both.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from JustRead Publicity Tours. I was not required to provide a review. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
December 18, 2024
I love a good read. The Hobbit isn’t a book I’ve read though. Not sure why I’ve not read it as most of my older children have. But I did read this book and I think it’s amazing. If it’s anything like The Hobbit then I’m sure I’d love that book too.
Lady Laura has her own estate. It’s not the grandest or the best, but it’s hers. And that means something. That stands for something. Lady Laura is just that. She’s a lady. She acts like a lady and she is refined and pure. When you think of the epitome of a lady you are thinking of her. She’s not wealthy really but she has a nice life.
One day an old woman shows up on her doorstep. She knows a lot about Laura’s family. A lot more than any stranger should know. How is this possible?
Jonathan is our next character. He’s a gentleman. But he’s financially in not a good place. He’s got bill collectors at his door and no money to pay them. Laura is his only chance. Will she help? Can he even ask her to?
Gentleman turned thief, anyone? And he drags a lady along for the ride. But they’re not related. They’re strangers really. Until they’re not. Can they pull off the ultimate heist? And restore their families?
This is a fun novel.
The characters are full and reach out to you. The villain is very villainy. Yes, I know, that’s probably not a word but I’m making it one today. I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story. I think there should be another novel following them later so I can see what life is like after this novel. Anyone else? Yes, I’m sure there is.
The characters stole the show in this novel. The good ones are so good and you can’t help but love them. And the villain is so villainy you can’t help but despise him, but also love him for being the best villain, at the same time.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Lady Laura has her own estate. It’s not the grandest or the best, but it’s hers. And that means something. That stands for something. Lady Laura is just that. She’s a lady. She acts like a lady and she is refined and pure. When you think of the epitome of a lady you are thinking of her. She’s not wealthy really but she has a nice life.
One day an old woman shows up on her doorstep. She knows a lot about Laura’s family. A lot more than any stranger should know. How is this possible?
Jonathan is our next character. He’s a gentleman. But he’s financially in not a good place. He’s got bill collectors at his door and no money to pay them. Laura is his only chance. Will she help? Can he even ask her to?
Gentleman turned thief, anyone? And he drags a lady along for the ride. But they’re not related. They’re strangers really. Until they’re not. Can they pull off the ultimate heist? And restore their families?
This is a fun novel.
The characters are full and reach out to you. The villain is very villainy. Yes, I know, that’s probably not a word but I’m making it one today. I thoroughly enjoyed reading their story. I think there should be another novel following them later so I can see what life is like after this novel. Anyone else? Yes, I’m sure there is.
The characters stole the show in this novel. The good ones are so good and you can’t help but love them. And the villain is so villainy you can’t help but despise him, but also love him for being the best villain, at the same time.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
December 6, 2024
An Unexpected Journey
A Regency Hobbit Retelling
By Ann Elizabeth Fryer
The premise behind this story is intriguing The Hobbit combined with the Regency period. It is just that, sort of. It is indeed set in the Regency period of England and there are elements of The Hobbit but it is done in such a way that unless one was well acquainted with The Hobbit you could miss it.
The need of a "thief" brings the Canfield family to the Grandview Estate, an estate slowly crumbling to disrepair. But also the home of Lady Laura Tamlow. Through a series of unfulfilled expectations Laura is unaware of the vital role she is expected to play in an attempt to retrieve the long stolen wealth of the Canfield and Tamlow families. Wealth lost due to scandalous events that began with Laura's grandfather's duplicitous actions more than 40 years ago. Thus the beginning of An Unexpected Journey. A journey filled with danger, intrigue, long-held secrets, and unexpected attraction.
Sometimes God leads us to a place and changes
our plans to enact His own plans.
I think the above quote from the book excellently describes and shares the heart of this story. The faith of the various characters is what keeps them continuing on in their journey, even in the face of doubts and unanticipated changes to the plan. But is it enough to see them through the danger and separations awaiting them? Can they stay the course? And what will the cost be to them if the succeed? If they fail debtor's prison, the workhouse, or a sentence to Australia is the best they can expect. A most unexpected reading experience is before you should you agree to go on it, but beware of the dragon, Lord Herrington who won't easily give up what and who he now claims as his!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
This book was read through Kindle Unlimited.
A Regency Hobbit Retelling
By Ann Elizabeth Fryer
The premise behind this story is intriguing The Hobbit combined with the Regency period. It is just that, sort of. It is indeed set in the Regency period of England and there are elements of The Hobbit but it is done in such a way that unless one was well acquainted with The Hobbit you could miss it.
The need of a "thief" brings the Canfield family to the Grandview Estate, an estate slowly crumbling to disrepair. But also the home of Lady Laura Tamlow. Through a series of unfulfilled expectations Laura is unaware of the vital role she is expected to play in an attempt to retrieve the long stolen wealth of the Canfield and Tamlow families. Wealth lost due to scandalous events that began with Laura's grandfather's duplicitous actions more than 40 years ago. Thus the beginning of An Unexpected Journey. A journey filled with danger, intrigue, long-held secrets, and unexpected attraction.
Sometimes God leads us to a place and changes
our plans to enact His own plans.
I think the above quote from the book excellently describes and shares the heart of this story. The faith of the various characters is what keeps them continuing on in their journey, even in the face of doubts and unanticipated changes to the plan. But is it enough to see them through the danger and separations awaiting them? Can they stay the course? And what will the cost be to them if the succeed? If they fail debtor's prison, the workhouse, or a sentence to Australia is the best they can expect. A most unexpected reading experience is before you should you agree to go on it, but beware of the dragon, Lord Herrington who won't easily give up what and who he now claims as his!
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
This book was read through Kindle Unlimited.
December 6, 2024
Christian Historical Fiction is a favorite genre. I have become interested in "retelling stories" in the past year.. An Unexpected Journey: A Regency Hobbit Retelling by Ann Elizabeth Fryer is the most recent book that I have read that fits both catergories.
I will admit I wasn't sure what to expect when reading this book, as I haven't ever read The Hobbit. I thought I would be lost while reading this book. I do LOVE that it is set in the Regency Era. I actually surprised myself when the storyline captured my attention from the very first chapter. Lady Laura Tamlow and Jonathan Canfield are the main characters in the book. I really LOVE how Lady Laura agrees to go on an adventure with Jonathan She is tasked with helping to recover the Family Jewels of both her family and Jonathan's family, by stealing them back, just as they were stolen in 1770. Adventure truly is at hand for Jonathan and Lady Laura and also danger lurks. I really LOVE how Jonathan really is a gentleman and wants to protect Laura. The romance that happens in this story is so sweet. The book is one of twists and turns, adventure, Romance and Faith. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves Christian Historical books. FANTASTIC BOOK!
I will admit I wasn't sure what to expect when reading this book, as I haven't ever read The Hobbit. I thought I would be lost while reading this book. I do LOVE that it is set in the Regency Era. I actually surprised myself when the storyline captured my attention from the very first chapter. Lady Laura Tamlow and Jonathan Canfield are the main characters in the book. I really LOVE how Lady Laura agrees to go on an adventure with Jonathan She is tasked with helping to recover the Family Jewels of both her family and Jonathan's family, by stealing them back, just as they were stolen in 1770. Adventure truly is at hand for Jonathan and Lady Laura and also danger lurks. I really LOVE how Jonathan really is a gentleman and wants to protect Laura. The romance that happens in this story is so sweet. The book is one of twists and turns, adventure, Romance and Faith. I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves Christian Historical books. FANTASTIC BOOK!
December 4, 2024
Having enjoyed The Hobbit as well as The Lord of the Rings series a number of years ago, I was intrigued by the idea of a Christian regency novel based on The Hobbit. Not sure what to expect I nevertheless agreed to read and review An Unexpected Journey by Ann Fryer.
I am one who mostly reads for enjoyment and rarely attempt to analyze the books I read. It had been quite awhile since reading the Tolkien novel so at first I wondered how this book connected to it. As I read further I found more and more glimpses of similarities so I understood.
Actually I would have thoroughly enjoyed An Unexpected Journey even without its connection to The Hobbit. The well paced narrative was filled with intriguing and eccentric characters that I loved. The story was filled with a bit of action, plenty of suspense, a modicum of danger, and an unexpected romance. All in all, I was well pleased with my experience and would recommend it to all who enjoy a bit of fantasy mixed with mystery and suspense.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
I am one who mostly reads for enjoyment and rarely attempt to analyze the books I read. It had been quite awhile since reading the Tolkien novel so at first I wondered how this book connected to it. As I read further I found more and more glimpses of similarities so I understood.
Actually I would have thoroughly enjoyed An Unexpected Journey even without its connection to The Hobbit. The well paced narrative was filled with intriguing and eccentric characters that I loved. The story was filled with a bit of action, plenty of suspense, a modicum of danger, and an unexpected romance. All in all, I was well pleased with my experience and would recommend it to all who enjoy a bit of fantasy mixed with mystery and suspense.
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book provided by JustReads Publicity. A favorable review was not required. All views expressed are my own.
December 5, 2024
Intrigued from the start, I could tell right away that this was going to be a unique story that I would easily fall in love with. The characters are relatable, especially with those who have ever had to deal with debt, and the fight for justice is one that is easy to connect with. I read this while on vacation and it added a unique charm to my times of rest and relaxation. There is just something so endearing as you read about Laura, Jonathan, and the crew as they try to figure out a familial mystery while also seeking justice.
The writing is positively absorbent, and the world came alive for me. The thread of faith interwoven throughout was the perfect companion to the adventure and added a needed gravity. Ann Elizabeth Fryer has such a talent for creating worlds that capture your heart and imagination, and it was a pleasure to get the opportunity to read this wonderful novel.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
The writing is positively absorbent, and the world came alive for me. The thread of faith interwoven throughout was the perfect companion to the adventure and added a needed gravity. Ann Elizabeth Fryer has such a talent for creating worlds that capture your heart and imagination, and it was a pleasure to get the opportunity to read this wonderful novel.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through JustRead Tours. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
December 6, 2024
Lady Laura Tamlow and Jonathan Canfield have one major thing in common; they're destitute, or very nearly. Although Lady Laura does still have Grandview, the somewhat threadbare family estate; and two servants, she has little else. And she and Jonathan have never met...that is, until the day that his unusual company arrives on Lady Laura's doorstep with an invitation; to find the Dragon who made off with both of their families' wealth and jewels. Why would Laura accept? She isn't quite sure...but accept, she does.
This marvelous melding of Regency dress, manners, and charming conversation and Bilbo Baggins' journey to find the gold ruled over by Smaug is a delightful, beautiful read by anyone who's attracted to these two genres (or those who like a little romance). I loved Ann Elizabeth Fryer's tale. It's just the read for a cold winter night. Tuck in with a cup of cocoa and a warm afghan and you'll be in for an amazing adventure!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my honest ones.
This marvelous melding of Regency dress, manners, and charming conversation and Bilbo Baggins' journey to find the gold ruled over by Smaug is a delightful, beautiful read by anyone who's attracted to these two genres (or those who like a little romance). I loved Ann Elizabeth Fryer's tale. It's just the read for a cold winter night. Tuck in with a cup of cocoa and a warm afghan and you'll be in for an amazing adventure!
I received a copy of this book from the author. All opinions shared here are my honest ones.
December 2, 2024
Do you like classic stories with a twist? In this Hobbit retelling with a Regency twist, Lady Laura Tamlow finds herself caught up in a web of deceit as Jonathan Canfield and his family try to reclaim the treasure that has been stolen from them. He and his family will need Laura to help them if they plan on succeeding.
I liked the similarities of adventure, the dragon and his ill-gotten gains, and Laura as a type of Bilbo Baggins. There is also a Sméagol-like character that roams the dark passages of Lombard Park. I think you will enjoy this new story if you are a Hobbit fan.
Things to love:
danger and intrigue
family secrets
treasure
masked ball
faith thread
Favorite quote:
“Your life for mine, my life for yours.”
I was given a complimentary copy through Just Read Tours with no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
I liked the similarities of adventure, the dragon and his ill-gotten gains, and Laura as a type of Bilbo Baggins. There is also a Sméagol-like character that roams the dark passages of Lombard Park. I think you will enjoy this new story if you are a Hobbit fan.
Things to love:
danger and intrigue
family secrets
treasure
masked ball
faith thread
Favorite quote:
“Your life for mine, my life for yours.”
I was given a complimentary copy through Just Read Tours with no obligation to write a review. All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2025
Very engaging
This was a great story with rich historical details. If you like historical fiction you will love this book. You will become invested in the characters and root for them as the story unfolds. There are also surprises that you won’t see coming!
This was a great story with rich historical details. If you like historical fiction you will love this book. You will become invested in the characters and root for them as the story unfolds. There are also surprises that you won’t see coming!
November 23, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! A Regency setting and a Hobbit inspired story was so much fun. This one had several surprises and I really liked the cast of characters. I hope we see more stories with these characters in the future.
January 20, 2025
What a delightful read! I was doubtful when I first began, but it proved a clever and well-written retelling. Would recommend 👌
June 10, 2025
Truly a creative retelling.
December 25, 2024
Author Ann Elizabeth Fryer came up with and wrote a creative and charming twist on a well known classic and added a Regency twist. Readers will be delighted in this plot-driven adventure story, as well as enjoy getting to know and see the relationship and romance develop between Lady Laura Tamblow and in need Jonathan Canfield. This is a thrilling story that readers will be delighted to read!
Genre: regency, romance, retelling
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: November 28, 2024
Number of pages: 257
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
Genre: regency, romance, retelling
Publisher: Indie
Publication date: November 28, 2024
Number of pages: 257
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, authors, and others, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR borrowed from Deseret Bookshelf, OR pre-ordered/purchased for review, including Audible. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
June 5, 2025
To sum up in one sentence: it’s a faith-filled mystery with cozy elements, sweet main characters, and a neat premise inspired by Austen and Tolkien.
I had fun matching which characters and aspects were inspired by The Hobbit. The concept and characters were entertaining and the mystery aspect gave it an intriguing flare. Also similar to its inspiration, it’s a bit slow at the beginning, then picks up with several twists and turns. The cast of characters were entertaining from the spunky grandma to the quirky uncle and the stalwart leads, they keep you on your toes.
Overall it had interesting plot developments, a variety of fascinating characters, and several insightful lessons on faith and moral integrity, it just needed a touch more proofing and fine tuning.
Content:
Romance:
- sweet light romance, hugs and kisses only
Violence/Injuries/Tragedies:
-
-
- different weapons mentioned and used for threatening, but no detailed violence or injuries occur
- MMC is thrown in a dungeon of sorts, and threatened
- the FMC’s traveling party is tied up by mercenaries, no severe harm to their party
- the FMC and traveling party is set upon by highwaymen, barely detailed, no harm to their party
-
- creepy yet harmless Gollum inspired character it’s mentioned he may have suffered a brain injury,
- a character has memory issues that cause her to get a bit overwrought and is given laudanum a few times to help her calm down
Faith:
- significant amount of faith included along with moral struggles of greed, power, deceit, drinking
- lots of discussion on dealing with poverty and debt
I had fun matching which characters and aspects were inspired by The Hobbit. The concept and characters were entertaining and the mystery aspect gave it an intriguing flare. Also similar to its inspiration, it’s a bit slow at the beginning, then picks up with several twists and turns. The cast of characters were entertaining from the spunky grandma to the quirky uncle and the stalwart leads, they keep you on your toes.
Overall it had interesting plot developments, a variety of fascinating characters, and several insightful lessons on faith and moral integrity, it just needed a touch more proofing and fine tuning.
Content:
Romance:
- sweet light romance, hugs and kisses only
Violence/Injuries/Tragedies:
-
-
- different weapons mentioned and used for threatening, but no detailed violence or injuries occur
- MMC is thrown in a dungeon of sorts, and threatened
- the FMC’s traveling party is tied up by mercenaries, no severe harm to their party
- the FMC and traveling party is set upon by highwaymen, barely detailed, no harm to their party
-
- creepy yet harmless Gollum inspired character it’s mentioned he may have suffered a brain injury,
- a character has memory issues that cause her to get a bit overwrought and is given laudanum a few times to help her calm down
Faith:
- significant amount of faith included along with moral struggles of greed, power, deceit, drinking
- lots of discussion on dealing with poverty and debt
October 3, 2025
This is a different type of book for me. I wasn't sure if I'd understand it, as I haven't read The Hobbit, but that didn't take the enjoyment out of it for me.
Lady Laura Tamlow & Jonathan Canfield, What do I say? The name of this book sums it up really - An Unexpected Journey. They were both nearly destitute and were needing to recover their families fortunes. They have to both work together (Although they hadn't met at the start of the book)
I loved Jonathan's mother! - The Lavender! I'll say no more about that, as I don't want to spoil it for anyone.
There is a lot of action & deceit in this. It kept me on my toes. There were a lot of characters to keep track of in this, there were some lighthearted moments in this too, which helped balance the darkness. I did enjoy the faith element that was throughout this book. Here are a few of my favourite quotes!-
"Have you all escaped from an asylum"
"You don't believe God poans aheadof us? He did believe that, but he also understood mankind's free will."
"I often wondered and asked God why He allowed me to be in the wrong place at the wrong time -" "But I think I understand now. He wanted me to help you"
And so many others.
I read this via Kindle Unlimited.
Lady Laura Tamlow & Jonathan Canfield, What do I say? The name of this book sums it up really - An Unexpected Journey. They were both nearly destitute and were needing to recover their families fortunes. They have to both work together (Although they hadn't met at the start of the book)
I loved Jonathan's mother! - The Lavender! I'll say no more about that, as I don't want to spoil it for anyone.
There is a lot of action & deceit in this. It kept me on my toes. There were a lot of characters to keep track of in this, there were some lighthearted moments in this too, which helped balance the darkness. I did enjoy the faith element that was throughout this book. Here are a few of my favourite quotes!-
"Have you all escaped from an asylum"
"You don't believe God poans aheadof us? He did believe that, but he also understood mankind's free will."
"I often wondered and asked God why He allowed me to be in the wrong place at the wrong time -" "But I think I understand now. He wanted me to help you"
And so many others.
I read this via Kindle Unlimited.
October 2, 2025
I enjoyed reading this.It was easy to pick up again when I had time to read. This a sign of good writing for me
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews