The Gentlewoman Companion

The Gentlewoman #4

by Emily Opal

United by love, two hearts must confront the secrets that threaten to unravel their bond.

Louisa Thorpe is determined to leave her past mistakes behind and forge a new path as an independent woman free from her family, who is eager to see her wed. To this end, she obtains employment as a lady’s companion. Despite her aversion to marriage and her firm resolve not to fall in love, she cannot deny the magnetic connection she develops with her employer's son, James Halverson.

James recently inherited his father’s title and is focused on fulfilling his duties in the House of Lords, leaving no time for romance. However, he can't help but be captivated—and delightfully unsettled—by Louisa's unconventional manners. When shocking revelations about his father's past challenge his perception of trust and duty, James finds himself questioning everything, including Louisa's loyalty. In this heartfelt tale of love, betrayal, and the fight for independence, will Louisa and James's love withstand the storm of secrets that may destroy them?

Genres: Historical Romance, Regency, Historical, Historical Fiction, Amazon, Romance

393 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 14, 2025

Reviews

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Louisa has a scandalous past that lands her in the position as a ladies companion. She meets her employer’s son, Lord James Halverson. At first James isn’t too sure about his mother’s companion. As James and Louisa spend time together they learn that they both have secrets, but learn to trust. As a result they grow close and romance blooms.
This was my first read by this author and I definitely enjoyed it. It is the 4th book in the series, I’m not sure if there are reoccurring characters or not but this definitely worked as a standalone. I really liked watching James and Louisa learn to trust one another, even though Louisa takes more time to do so, she still does it. I liked Louisa’s personality. And James is so sweet and caring. Not only towards Louisa but his family and half siblings. Overall this is a great story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Content:couple of uses of “d*mn”

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was captivated by the sweet romance between the main characters—they were truly perfect for one another. This story beautifully sheds light on the issue of childhood poverty and emphasizes the importance of helping those in need. Add in a dash of blackmail and a few hidden secrets, and you’ve got a delightful tale that keeps you hooked from start to finish!
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book and read it with pleasure. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

[Courtney Pityer · Rating 5 out of 5]

A special thank you to emily opal for giving me the opportunity to be on her arc team for The Gentlewoman's Companion which is set to be released August 14th. This is the first time that I have read one her books and I am thrilled that I took the opportunity to read this because it ended up being a wonderful experience. I will say that I was very impressed with the plot and the characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has a deep love for historical fiction.
We are introduced to Louisa who is seeking a new life for herself after running away from home. She ends up gaining a position as a companion. However, she lives under the constant thumb of ber brothers blackmail to expose her secret. However, she manages to overcome that and fulfill her companion duties strong sticking to the reservation that she will never fall in love again.
Although that plan ends up failing when she meets James the son of her employer. James is captivated by her and can't help but feel that she is hiding something. However, he has his own problems as he is trying to uncover some secrets that his father left. Will these two be able to overcome their challenges and find a new life for themselves.

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Louisa, what do you want?” “To feel capable, else I will never trust my worth.”

Secrets, self-discovery, fantastic characters, helping the less fortunate, and a sweet romance.

Secrets have a way of not staying hidden, something Louisa and James found out. Louisa is just trying to keep her past mistake in the past. She is intelligent and witty. She has a great desire to improve herself by learning and to prove herself as well. I loved her friendship with Miss Cron and Lady Halverton. James is just trying to prove to himself and everyone else that he is a man of integrity. His compassion for those less fortunate is heartwarming. I loved everything he did to provide for his siblings. The effort he put forth to get to know them and his determination to build a relationship with them was incredible. His relationship with his mother was delightful. I really enjoyed Louisa and James together. They challenged and supported each other and their friendship budding to romance was beautiful.

This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written novel with a lot of heart. I adored James and Louisa as characters, even though Louisa’s fortunate circumstances despite her choices requires some suspension of disbelief given the setting (but that’s part of the fun of novels!). The book is rich with historical details and allusions to thinkers and issues of the era. In fact, the book was a lot more heartbreaking than I expected and spent a lot of time on the plight of children in poverty and on the oppression of women. It was also horrifying to see press gangs at work. I applaud Emily Opal (and Louisa and James!) for standing up for their views. I enjoyed this novel and will look forward to more in the future from Emily Opal. I give it 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing CoOp for the free eARC. I post this review with my honest opinions.

Content warnings: mentions of forced marriage; impoverished mother giving up her child and discussions of children who are in poverty and unhoused; implied abuse; mention of extramarital affairs and children born out of wedlock; kidnapping of an adult to be pressed into service for the Royal Navy; very brief kiss between consenting adults

[Julie Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louisa Thorpe has a problem. An arranged marriage that doesn't suit her. And so she flees! But of course for a woman in the late 1700s, this is not an easy decision, nor one that is looked upon favorably! But fortunately for Louisa, her plight ends in the best possible way, a caring and understanding lady who hires her as her lady's companion. What follows is Louisa finding healing and friendship and love in the last place she thought she'd find it.

I loved reading about this time period and how the author wrote about the women's salons and their talks about trying to find ways for women to gain more rights.

Louisa's character is fun, sometimes impetuous, strong willed, a fighter for justice, witty, and in need of champions in her corner!

Enter James, the son of the lady whom Louisa is a companion for. He's trying to find his footing in his new title, and reeling from revelations of his father's that come to his knowledge. As he's navigating it all, he has a great sounding board and someone who opens his eyes to life struggles, in Louisa. I loved their conversations and the understanding and friendship that blossoms between them. There are ups and downs and unknowns between them, but it was a beautiful story. With some definite twists thrown in... mostly from Louisa's impetuous personality!

This is the second book that I've read in this series and have enjoyed both. They can be read as standalones.

Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further. Talk of secondary character having children out of wedlock but nothing graphic.

I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Gentlewoman Companion, the fourth installment in Emily Opal’s series, was an absolute delight. It reminded me why I love reading. This clean historical romance features a delightful MFC who is realistic, silly, and brings joy to everyone around her. The family she spends time with is gracious and kind, and I found myself falling in love with them. The author weaves a charming romance with well-developed side characters. I highly recommend this book.

Thanks, Victory Editing, and NetGalley.

[ShayAnn · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ARC Review ✨Big thank you to Emily for the opportunity♥️

This beautifully written historical fiction follows Louisa, after she runs away and becomes a lady’s companion. She’s determined to stay independent and certain she’ll never fall in love—or marry. But everything begins to shift when she meets James, her employer’s son, whose quiet captivation with Louisa is both tender and intriguing.

What truly stood out to me was how the writing transports you completely into the time period. The atmosphere, the language, the societal expectations—it all felt so authentic. The story doesn’t shy away from the harsher realities of the era, either. Through Louisa’s journey, we’re confronted with some very powerful themes. This is more than just a love story; it’s about resilience, self-discovery, and the quiet strength it takes to rewrite your own fate.

[Leigh Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

A charming tale of a woman who is tortured by her past. I found it captivating and wanting her to find love and acceptance in an era where being prim and proper were expected of a young woman. I can’t wait to read others as this is my first and feel privileged to have read it prior to it’s release.

[BookDragon_ KSC · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review. Its been some time since I read a historical romance and it was nice to jump back in with this one. It's a sweet love story and if you're looking for a cozy read, this is it. The FMC Louisa is a heroine you just want to root for. She felt ADHD coded too, and I like to see that represented in main characters. I also love a good friends to lovers trope and this one felt believable. While I felt like the beginning of the story felt choppy and trying to tell too much back story all at once, the story finds it's rhythm and I enjoyed watching both the FMC and MMC tackle their own challenges. Instead of the traditional Lord saves young women, they push each other to save themselves, with plenty of antics along the way.

[Carol Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshing story of family drama, love, and life lesson.
Touching on women’s issues of the period, family and societal issues.
I would highly recommend The Gentlewoman Companion written by Emily Opal

[Beth S · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Gentlewoman Companion was so cute. Louisa and James were fun getting to know each other. I loved Louisa’s strength being willing to take control of her life. I love historical romances so this was fantastic. I recommend reading this

[Kelsey Fetterman · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this book as an ARC. While it was fine and the love story was adorable. I struggled through the writing style.

[RomanceLand65 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I want to say this was a very indepth look at a time in the past and the struggle of keeping ones reputation in tact. reputation was so much back then and this author gave the reader a very indepth look at the hierarchy of class.
I'm very sure this book is someone's favorite style of writing. very indepth with incredible amount of detail to the characters, their plight in life and most certainly the time when this book took place. it makes me feel like the book was written by someone who lived in those times.
this book was a long read and at times the attention to detail made my ADHD brain drift. I found myself often drifting. but truly this is not the authors issue. it's a me issue. I guess I am saying my preference is a read that is to the point. this book will hit perfectly with other readers who enjoy the depth this author goes to when she places a scene or a time.

[Sivya · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a lovely period piece. 1700s England is a whole new world. This story is a nice escape to that time and it’s fun to learn about women’s struggles and the characters Opal develops.
I received an ARC for an honest review.

[Brit · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start this review off by saying I am in no way a romance reader. This book has completely changed my views on the romance genre. When I first started reading the gentle woman’s companion, I thought I knew where the story was going; I thought this was going be a typical love story where girl falls in love, doubts herself, etc. The twists and turns, and growing of characters was one that I did not expect and have come to completely appreciate the journey they took me on. This is the first and only book that I have read by Emily, Opal, but will now definitely purchase the rest of our collection. Highly recommend! * I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of the book.

[Tiffany Pate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great read! I received an ARC of this great book and I’m so glad I did. It’s not a book I would normally pick up but I very much enjoyed it. The characters are really great, the plot moves at a good pace, and the ended wraps up so nicely. If anything I would have loved more of the story.

This was the 1st book from this author I’ve ever read. I will have to pick up her other books as well!

[Cathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a bad book but sadly I have truly struggled. The reason being the writing is clumsy in some places but sings beautifully in others. This makes it feel like cake that smells good and looks inviting but once bit into is tasty in some parts and uncooked in others. I really wanted to love this as not only are the bones of the story inviting, but as you read on you find that both leads and even secondary characters are lovable and the story has warm moments that humanize the characters in a beautiful way. But unfortunately the bumps kept drawing me out of enjoyment.

The writing style took me a while to settle into. There are parts where the flow is not fluid but seems to break in odd ways. This doesn't help with immersion. Those parts almost feels like a script with directions for actors than beautifully crafted prose telling a story. And so if the characters are experiencing intense emotion because something has happened to them you don't get properly pulled into the experience with them.

Another place where the writing threw me off was in the depiction of culture. An example is the odd way in which the household of an extremely wealthy highly respected earl sometimes does not seem to function as one. To give examples lets talk of the job our FMC has been employed to do. She is meant to act as the countess' companion and receives payment for this. However she is treated more like a dear house guest than the lady's companion. If she is not out and about with the MMC sharing romantic moments, then she is paying calls to new local gentry friends and enjoying riding out with them in the countryside away from the countess who she should be accompanying. I understand the countess' character is written as one who loves to dote on her and she is a ray of sunshine to them but I just wish the fact that she was a companion was a bit more deeply and historically accurately brought forth in the story.
Another example is the earl's valet. Not only is the valet overly familiar with his master (whose main character trait according to the author is that of a strict rule follower making him even allowing this very contrary to his nature) but also does the duties of other staff members through very forced circumstances. One time he acts out the duties of a groom then another time he is very oddly requested to do the duties of footmen and kitchen staff that he ends up under performing in just in order to provide an excuse for the mains to share an intimate moment.
I understand that characters can do out of place things now and then in stories but these out of place things in this story felt poorly executed.

In conclusion I would say if you like reading books that seem to have dug deeply into the mannerisms and culture of the time period and have been written in an enrapturing manner, you might have a very hard time getting through this. But if you simply want to read about character development and an empowering story for women (the story is rich in this which is a plus) then give this a go.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of the book.

I thoroughly enjoy a good historical fiction and “The Gentlewoman Companion” fits the bill.

This books allows the main character not only overcome a misfortune but also shows that one must love and accept themselves before they can another.


It is a love story. It is a story of finding yourself, accepting that not everyone will like you, about being kind, and friendship found in many places.

[Thoroughly Clean Indies · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have previously reviewed book 3. This book immediately follows that one, so while you don’t absolutely need to have read The Gentlemwoman Author to follow this story, you will have a greater appreciation for it.

As these are meant to be reviews for books I would expect most people to consider 100% clean, I must preface this review by saying that there is one mouth kiss with a full embrace that falls just outside my definition of clean, which is at most chaste kissing — it includes a moan, a sigh, and stretches a bit too descriptively over four paragraphs. After there is a reference to “her pleasantly stinging mouth.” There is also a later kiss that comes with a moan, though with much less description. I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

{364 print pages}

Genre: Historical fiction
Tropes: Secrets, family betrayal
Setting: Georgian England
Writing style: Dual POV, 3rd person, past tense
Tone: Tumultuous, with periods of lightness
Character- or plot-driven: Both, though mainly character

Other romantic elements:
• 1 mouth kiss with minimal description, preceded by “kiss me all the way home.” 1 mouth kiss, zero description.
• Forehead kiss.
• 2 instances of desire to kiss and 1 to “take her into his arms”, 1 instance of noticing mouth, 1 thought of kissing fingers.

Other sensitive aspects:
* Infidelity and illegitamacy play a central role in the plot
• Recalling sexual assault — mouth on hers and wandering hands (recall is brief)
• Woman sees man’s partially-exposed chest (2 separate lines)
• Recall of past comment alluding to men who sleep around
• Man eyes a woman from her neck to her bodice, then keeps his gaze on her chest — no detail and other men around take issue
• 2 instances of variations of da*n, 1 instance of bloody

Favorite aspects of the book:
• A heartwarming scene where Louisa and Lady Halverton play an “unconventional” version of the ball game Pall Mall
• Louisa’s relationship with Lady Halverton
• Louisa and James’s relationship, as it blossoms from friendship to more, despite some of the bumps along the way to their happy ending
• The embrace of James’s siblings and Tom and Susan

Thoughts on main characters:
• Louisa grows in wisdom throughout the narrative, with help from the people in her life who care deeply about her, and impacts others with her liveliness and zest.
• James has a heightened sense of justice and all the integrity his father failed to stay bound in.
• Lady Halverston is an anchor for her son and the young woman she loves as a daughter.
Favorite character: Lady Halverton (though all three main characters are wonderful)

*There’s a characterization inconsistency — Louisa suddenly has a Cornish accent, which there was no trace of in the last book.

This book is chock full of things to talk about. Based on my reading of this and the previous book in the series, the author writes complex stories that engage the mind and invite readers to make judgments on the topics addressed, alongside the characters. Discussion plays a key part in both of these books (3 and 4 in the series), which feature literary meetings where participants are encouraged to share their views and respectfully debate with the others in the group. The story has all the complexity of real life, and the characters must work just as hard for their happy ending.

The central lesson is that one mistake, no matter how big, doesn’t define you. Louisa is convinced that because she is capable of what she calls her Great Misjudgment, she is irredeemable, undeserving of praise or even basic admiration. She confuses the capacity to make a disastrous choice with being a fundamentally bad person, one with nothing to recommend her. The harsh judgment of the society she lives within serves only to reinforce this damaging mindset. Ultimately, it takes the inevitable exposure of her secret for her to finally confront the folly of this thinking.

The secret of James’s father’s indiscretions highlights the rampant hypocrisy of the upper class when it came to morality and proper conduct. People were ostracized for the smallest offenses, often things for which they were not even remotely responsible. One misstep, and you could be shunned by all society — and anyone who dared to go against the crowd would share your fate. Yet things like extra-marital and pre-marital affairs and fathering children through them were common even among the foremost moralizers, as the elder Lord Halverston had been. And many would look the other way.

It’s essential to recognize that social-class prejudice and judgment weren’t one-sided; both the upper and lower classes were biased against and mistrustful of each other. James’s sister, Margaret, expects him to behave just as their father did. She views his desire to embrace her and their brother, Samuel, with suspicion—her scars run too deep to believe he truly cares. Yet, to her credit, in a moment of absolute necessity, she seeks James out for Samuel’s sake. Somehow, James manages to keep his siblings there, gradually overcoming her resistance to bridging the social and emotional gap between them, until the barrier has all but fallen.

The author follows the common tendency of saying “her truth” instead of “her experience” or “her story,” or whatever word might have fit the context better. Truth is inherently objective, and using the word inaccurately is detrimental to how we think about and relate to reality.

____________________________________

[Louisa’s] logic grated. If she was right, [James] would have to grapple with the possibility that his father either voted ignorantly or selfishly.

Or his logic brought him to a different conclusion. Why must it be one or the other?

[James’s] mention of his father recalled the previous day in his study. “It was kind of you to listen to me yesterday. I hope I did not force my confidence.”

She pushed him to. If anyone “forced,” it was her.

His father had certainly been diligent in caring for James, yet he had not cared for Margaret and Samuel as he should have. But hadn’t James just done something reprehensible in the name of kindness?

In what way were his father’s actions in the name of kindness? Caring for James didn’t preclude him from caring just as well for his other children.

Favorite Quotations:
• “She but enters a room and sunshine follows her.”
• “You keep all the good you make, Miss Louisa. Mistakes cannot erase the goodness you are.”
• From now on, Louisa would know a man’s heart before she gave him her own.
• “We arrived late on purpose to avoid your other callers, but we will leave if you don’t want us.” “I always want you, but you might have come earlier and done me the favor of scaring off the other guests.”
• Though Louisa did not like shadows, she could not ascertain how to properly step out of them without embarrassing herself.
• Lady Halverton’s smile drew Louisa in and wrapped her in warmth. All would be well. She was safe.
• It was an unfair reality that the memories she most wished to hold eluded her while those she wanted to forget rose unbidden with lifelike clarity.
• Like starlings, the Halvertons and their guests flew in coordinated precision, each understanding their places—when to lift, when to perch, when to soar—while Louisa was a solitary swift, unable to perch. Silk feathers could not disguise the outsider.
• “…needless expense of that gown. If you indulge your companion, she will not know her place.” Lady Waxpole spoke to Lady Halverton. “Her place,” Lady Halverton retorted, “is beside me.”
• Lord Halverton appeared at her side. “I believe the next set is mine.” His voice was almost a growl. “I will not hold it against you if you wish to abstain.” His glower deepened. “I do not dance with you out of a sense of duty.” “Then stop looking at me as though I caused eternal darkness.”
• “...women are not more culpable than men, nor can we claim a greater share of virtue. We all have weakness. Only by uniting our strengths, women and men together, do we overcome our foibles.”
• Her affection for him was as profound as it was elevated, founded on an admiration for his goodness, his sincerity, his integrity.
• Unworthy. Was that what she was? Louisa refused to accept the word. Misunderstood. Misguided. Impulsive. All of that. But if she had learned a singular truth in her time as Lady Halverton’s companion, it was that she was a person of value.
• [T]he idea that she might slip beyond the edges of his life felt like watching the sun set without knowing if he would ever feel its warmth again.
• with the delight of a child blowing dandelion fluff into the wind.
• She had made a mistake, but she was also all the goodness she had ever created, all the generosity she had ever shared. Gathering wisdom from the wreckage and leaving the rest behind, she grounded herself, no longer willing to be defined by what had once undone her.
• “He seems happier every week,” Halverton said. “They are a joy,” said Mr. Kent. “They are noise and laughter and happiness,” said his wife. “It is the music I’ve longed for. Thank you, my lord, for thinking of us.”
• “She watched you like a flower follows the sun.”
• “‘Dear Louisa,
Your behavior to me was reprehensible. Thank you.
Love, Charles.’”
• “I’ve thought about all these men who asked something of you. Your father, your brother, the man who took you from Bath. They each wanted to take something from you. What they didn’t realize is that you are the treasure. If you will forgive my impertinence, I am asking for more than anyone else ever has, because I want that prize, the treasure that is you.”
• In that moment, he felt like a sparrow among falcons.

[Paty · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I read form this author and it definitely won’t be my last! This is part of a Sweet Regency Romance Series called The Gentlewoman Companion. There are four novels published already and a fifth one already announced! This novel can be perfectly read as a standalone, although I do want to read the others now! Louisa Thorpe is determined to leave her past behind and become an independent woman, free from her family’s pressure to marry. She accepts a position as a lady’s companion, resolved not to fall in love—until she’s drawn to her employer’s son, James Halverson. James, newly bearing his father’s title and focused on his role in the House of Lords, has no time for romance but finds himself captivated by Louisa’s unconventional ways. When shocking secrets about his father arise, James must question everything—including Louisa’s loyalty. In this poignant story of love, betrayal, and independence, will their relationship survive the storm of hidden truths? The story was really good, depicting constant themes that men and woman faced upon marriage and forging their future in the Regency Era. The first part may have a slower pace, but I liked how the author describes the setting and customs with such detail that it’s not difficult to imagine the whole scene so vividly! The characters are lovable and endearing. Louisa’s spark and fierce determination made her charming and I loved her genuine cheerful personality. My heart tore at her dire situation, the guilt she carried for a past mistake, and the way her father and brother used her for money was so sad. But her optimism, strength and zest for life made her face her challenges with a positive attitude and not one of a victim, or a mere damsel in distress. Her earnestness to make up and atone for her mistakes was heart-tugging, but she followed the road to forgiveness and redemption in a beautiful way. She had a great heart and spoke her mind in a place and time when that was definitely not proper for a woman. Her brightness lighted James monotonal and duty centered life. He needed someone like Louisa to open up his mind to other important things in life and learn how to enjoy the ordinary things of life. His honesty and integrity endeared him to me, and the way he gradually lightens up made him even more relatable. But the best part is his desire to do what is right in a society where interests overcome the sense of justice, truth and fighting for the defenseless. The theme about forgiving oneself and others was inspiring. The romance is sweet and clean, slow-burn but romantic. The story has its twists -betrayal and deception- that keep you engaged until the end, in spite of being a long novel. The ending was pretty good, I only wished I could get more about the happily ever after!
Highly recommended! I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author and was under no obligation to post a review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.

[Alexis (IG: lexislimitlesslibrary) Anderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝓔𝓿𝓮𝓷 𝓪𝓯𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝓮𝓿𝓮𝓻𝔂𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓰.”

This sweet story touched my heart so much! This is book 4 in the series, but can be read as a stand-alone. James and Louisa’s story is one of embracing our flaws/shortcomings and learning that mistakes can be forgiven. No one is perfect and oftentimes there are very good reasons for people’s actions and choices. Mistakes don’t define a person, but rather how we right wrongs and how our choices have more of an impact than we can imagine.
 
‘𝒮𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝒶 𝓈𝓊𝓃, 𝑜𝒷𝓁𝒾𝓋𝒾𝑜𝓊𝓈 𝓉𝑜 𝒽𝑜𝓌 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝓌𝒶𝓇𝓂𝓉𝒽 𝒶𝓌𝒶𝓀𝑒𝓃𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝓌𝑜𝓇𝓁𝒹. 𝐻𝑒 𝓂𝓊𝓈𝓉 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝒽𝑒𝓇 𝓊𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇𝓈𝓉𝒶𝓃𝒹—𝓅𝑒𝓇𝒽𝒶𝓅𝓈 𝒾𝓉 𝓌𝑜𝓊𝓁𝒹 𝑒𝒶𝓈𝑒 𝓌𝒽𝒶𝓉𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇 𝒷𝓊𝓇𝒹𝑒𝓃 𝓈𝒽𝑒 𝒸𝒶𝓇𝓇𝒾𝑒𝒹..’

Louisa’s bravery to face the future thrust upon her and her journey to independence pulled at my heart and I was pulled into the story from the beginning. James’s devotion to his family and doing what is right made him an endearing MMC! This gripping story has so many deep layers with twists and betrayal. I only wish the book was longer to stay with these characters more! 😊

‘𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉 𝒉𝒆 𝒅𝒊𝒅 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒌𝒏𝒐𝒘 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒕𝒂𝒊𝒍 𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒊𝒔𝒔𝒖𝒆, 𝒉𝒆 𝒕𝒓𝒖𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒑𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒊𝒑𝒍𝒆𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒊𝒏 𝒇𝒐𝒍𝒍𝒐𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒏𝒔𝒄𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒄𝒆.’

I loved how the themes of forgiveness, mistakes, societal standards, the progressiveness of women’s thoughts and feelings were written into this book. The difficult topics were done respectfully and I could not get enough of this book. There is a sneak peek into the next book and I cannot wait to read Meg’s full story.
 
There are so many favorite moments in this book but I do not want to spoil any of the twists and list them out. But James’s mom is seriously the best!! The games they play and the meetings they have are an absolute delight!!

Thank you, Emily, for writing such a captivating story and for the opportunity to read this early! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
 
#thegentlewomancompanion #thegentlewomanseries #newrelease #bookstagram #closeddoorromance #historicalfiction #historicalromance #emilyopal #booksbooksbooks 

[Tales and Toils · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story made me an instant fan of this author. Can't wait to read books 1-3!

Lonely since her mother passed and desperate to escape her assigned fate,
after her father negotiates a marriage without even naming her intended groom, with her rash disposition she runs away with a man that flatters, smiles, and promises her peace at an estate if they elope. During the journey she escapes after learning his intention was to ruin her and demand her dowry. Driven by her determination to choose her own future and fear of scandal should her actions become known she and her maid throw themselves at the mercy of a local widowed countess who takes them in. She's able to learn and become wiser under Lady Halverton's example in a happy but haunted arrangement. She feels the guilt and shame that hovers and threatens to be revealed or if she is complimented knowing how their opinions would change should they know the truth which causes bouts of impetuous behavior.
His study of the legacy his father has left him as a respected, upright and wise member of the peerage is driven by his guilt for not returning to spend time with his father before he passed. When he discovers the life his father truly led, the disappointment and confusion crushes him sending him into a state of paralysis and anger as he rejects anything associated with is father. The only one to pull him from his grief is his mother's annoyingly heedless companion that he can't help but find comfort and friendship. She inspires him to discover the man he wants to be while embracing the discarded consequences of his father.

I hung on every word of this charming tale, and I loved all the family nuances, the snobbery, the humor, the aches and fears, I loved it all!

[Corina · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book had cute premise and was predictable to an extent, I was surprised though of the plot twist the author created in the middle to add another dimension to the story.

This is a clean romance set in the mid 1700s England. Although, the author denotes in the beginning of the book, she is not a historian, and there are some historical accuracies. I thought an author is to research as much as possible the subject matter to which they write about, especially if they are doing a series in this time period.

Louisa, the FMC, starts the story by writing a long journal letter (15 pages by my Kindle on my phone), on another story that happened off page the author is either is setting up for another book or try to squeeze a novella into this book. Interestingly enough, her journaling was proper without slangs or shorthand, far different than the way as her character first spoke, stating it was because she being from Cornwall. The journal entry glossed over how Louisa ended up in her current predicament in the first place and set the stage for the story's beginning. Louisa is an independent young lady of 17, and even though she doesn't have any financial means to be on her own or be choosy towards suitors. She refuses to be forced into a loveless marriage and she ends up answering an ad to become a Lady's companion for a widow.

James, the MMC, of course happens to be the Lady of the house's grown son, who happens to be the typical Lord barrister of Georgian era England. James has morals and a heart big enough to overcome his father's legacy and betrayal. Which beomes a large part of the plot.

The whole book was how Louisa and James began falling in love for one another on their own time while staying at the same home. At the very end of the book, James does ask to court and marry Louis, but then it's the epilogue and they have already entered married life and all is well. As a reader, I feel that I missed out on a wedding after reading an entire book.

This is a light romance book, that at times was funny and endearing, but I did not care for the writer's style. The world building just wasn't there, and the character building lacked as well.

[NewariMaicha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my very first historical romance, and I was instantly swept into the charm and richness of the past times. It’s a heartwarming yet layered tale of love, betrayal, and a fiercely brave woman determined to claim her independence and find her place in a world that often underestimates women.

Louisa faces trial after trial, but her grit and determination carry her through. Along the way, this story delivers not only a romance but a beautiful exploration of self-discovery showing that true happiness doesn’t come from pleasing everyone, but from staying true to yourself, choosing kindness, and opening your heart to unexpected friendships. I loved how it highlighted that mistakes don’t define a person, and that unconditional love can bring both peace and joy. This is a story of second chances, redemption, and finding love where you least expect it, With vivid writing, emotional depth, and moments of humor.

The synopsis, Louisa Thorpe is determined to leave her past behind and build a life free from the constraints of her family’s marriage expectations. Taking a position as a lady’s companion seems like the perfect step forward until she finds herself drawn to her employer’s son, James Halverson. James, newly burdened with his father’s title and responsibilities in the House of Lords, has no time for romances until Louisa’s wit and unconventional spirit captivate him. But when dark secrets from his father’s past come to light, trust is tested, and loyalties are questioned.

This beautifully told romance will leave you smiling, aching, and believing in the power of second chances.

[Debra Henrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Louisa Thorpe writes to her mother who has passed as if it is a journal. Loved this introduction to the main character and the information to begin with. It is a great way to tell some of the back story and what Louisa is trying to do to improve the circumstances of what she is facing. Louisa wants to redeem herself by running away and finding a way to support herself without having her father or brother find out where she has gone. She becomes a companion for Lady Halverton. For the first time in many years, she finds peace and acceptance in her life. Through the guidance of Lady Halverton , Louisa practices her speech and how to present herself. In return Lady Halverton enjoys Louises company. I loved this story very much. Louisa makes great efforts to change and how she conducts herself. Louisa has a bright outlook on life and takes time to really see those around her and what they have to offer without always focusing on herself. She keeps a secret from her past life but as the story advances it is slowly being revealed through others. When her brother starts blackmailing her and a so-called friend shuns her at a ball, she feels like she is back where she started. This story is about redemption and change. I love the gentle way the story is told to achieve these attributes. The characters are very believable and endearing. The story of Louise and James Halverton is lovely. Great read!

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

A determined Louisa Thorpe seeks independence as a lady’s companion, vowing to avoid both her family’s marriage plans and love itself. However, her resolve falters when she meets her employer’s son, James Halverson, who is a newly titled lord. James having recently inherited his father’s title, and believes that he has no time for romance, with his duty in the House of Lords. Yet, Louisa’s sharp wit and spirit captivate him in ways he never expected. Their connection deepens, even as shadows from the past emerge. When James uncovers troubling truths about his late father, Louisa finds herself caught in the crossfire of suspicion and duty.
This is a heartfelt romance with many layers, with two people finding the courage to choose each other despite secrets and social pressures. I enjoyed the balance of the slow-burn attraction with deeper themes of trust, loyalty, and self-determination. The chemistry between Louisa and James is evident, growing through shared glances and sharp banter. I particularly enjoyed how Louisa’s strength didn’t come at the expense of her warmth. She is not portrayed as infallible, but as a woman trying to navigate her feelings against the rigid rules of society
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the latest novel in this historical romance series from Emily Opal, readers follow Louisa Thorpe, desperate to keep her past hidden as she acts as a companion to Lady Halverton. However, her employer’s son, James Halverton, is distracted from his obligations by Louisa’s unique manners, and their constant proximity means that soon their secrets and attraction to each other will come to light. As their worlds change and force them to question everything, James and Louisa must learn about themselves before embarking on a new relationship and future. Entertaining, occasionally steamy, and charming, readers will love the historical details and atmosphere which act as the backdrop to James and Louisa’s relationship. The characters are complex and well-written, and the details that bring their unique stories to life will pull readers into the narrative. With the right amounts of drama and tension, readers will really enjoy the story and the characters’ growth over the novel, and Opal has really nailed the pacing and emotional tempo of the story. Charming, entertaining, and fun, historical romance readers will love this book and the rest of the series because of the fantastic characters, entertaining storylines, and detailed historical backdrop that Emily Opal has brought to life.

Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-opt for the advance copy.

[Julianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a charming, sweet historical Romance.

Louisa is a young gentlewoman, who puts herself into a compromising position when she's talked into eloping with an insincere man. Luckily, she's able to escape before she's married or compromised, but her reputation is marred. Alone, except for her trusty ladies maid, Nelly - Louisa finds refuge and friendship with Lady Halverton as her companion.

Shortly after Louisa arrives at Lundbrook estate, Lady Halverton's son, James - returns from his business abroad. As the trio spends more time together, we see each of them grow & blossom in new ways: Lady Halverton opens herself up to fun and adventure. James gains confidence in his own political opinions and charitble endeavors. And Louisa learns to accept the mistake she made, yet believe that it does not define her future.

This is a sweet, slow-burn romance with lots of wonderful character development and a well-written journey into the lives of of both the genteel and the poor of 1700's England.

This is the 4th book in the Gentlewoman series by Emily Opal. I'm already looking forward to reading more about Meg's journey in The Gentlewoman Tailor.

Thank you to Emily Opal for an ARC of The Gentlewoman Companion. All opinions are my own.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review: Happy release day to Emily Opal! This was my first time reading Emily Opal's work, and it was my first historical fiction/romance, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The beginning was a tad slow (I might have had a different experience if I had read the previous books in this series… still uncertain of this), but I equate this to all the buildup, getting to know the characters and their motivations.
Our female lead, Louisa, is a strong woman who has run away from her family to escape an unwanted arranged marriage. She finds employment as a companion to a wealthy older woman, who just so happens to have a handsome son. Yup, you guessed it, here enters our male lead, James. Without any spoilers, both have secrets, both are trying to overcome their pasts, and learn so much about themselves and each other along the way. Will they come together and create the life they both dream of, or will their personal challenges keep them apart?
This was a sweet story with budding romance, strength in finding your independence, and a not-so-little dash of blackmail.
This might have been my first Emily Opal book, but it'll not be my last. It was such a privilege to be a part of this ARC team, and I am happy to give my honest review of the book.