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The Bradley Brothers #1
A Beguiled Gentleman
Hannah Gibbons is no stranger to being seen as little more than her dowry—a prize to be claimed by eager suitors for their own gain and a tool to be used by her parents to elevate their social status. So whenever Hannah’s impetuous nature strikes, her parents assume their name sullied, and pack up and move away to start fresh. But now Hannah has more at stake—friendships, and even love, are on the table, and she is determined not to lose it this time.
Lord Noah Bradley, a man of kindness and quiet integrity, has long dreamed of marrying, but when his heartfelt proposal to Miss Margaret Lewiston is rejected, his spirit is shattered. Left to face the sting of heartbreak, he struggles to regain his footing as life’s unexpected challenges—both in his relationships and his work—threaten to overwhelm him. But his new friendship with Miss Hannah Gibbons begins to help him find comfort and solace.
Will Noah's heart find new hope in the woman who has become his greatest ally? Or will he remain too lost in the shadows of his past to recognize the love right in front of him?
Lord Noah Bradley, a man of kindness and quiet integrity, has long dreamed of marrying, but when his heartfelt proposal to Miss Margaret Lewiston is rejected, his spirit is shattered. Left to face the sting of heartbreak, he struggles to regain his footing as life’s unexpected challenges—both in his relationships and his work—threaten to overwhelm him. But his new friendship with Miss Hannah Gibbons begins to help him find comfort and solace.
Will Noah's heart find new hope in the woman who has become his greatest ally? Or will he remain too lost in the shadows of his past to recognize the love right in front of him?
261 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 13, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
July 14, 2025
3.5 stars ⭐️ Clean Fiction - Regency
I’ve been wanting to try out another book by this author and this cover made me put it to the top of her book list, because really! I absolutely adore this cover and all the flowers. Just so very, very pretty. Stunning, even.
As far as the inside, I overall liked both Noah and Hannah. Not a great amount as I feel like I didn’t fully understand their logic (or lack there of) with some comments or actions, but I honestly felt for Hannah. Her parents love her, but are also controlling and want her married. This includes moving every six months to a new area to meet new men after the current men see one of Hannah’s unladylike habits—such as her loud sneezing, her laughing without a care, etc. it was such slight things to nitpick in my modern eyes, but not things a graceful lady of that time period should be seen doing.
For Noah, I felt so bad for him at the beginning. You can tell he is beyond smitten for this girl (who is not the FMC, so I really could have told him it wasn’t going to work out) and then, heartbreak. Bless him. He was a little too sappy and emotional/teary for my tastes as a MMC, but he had his sweet moments. And stupid ones too, if I’m being honest. But I love a cinnamon role MMC so I can’t really complain about it.
I do have to say that I loved how Noah’s biggest goal in his life and why he worked was to provide for his future wife and children. Swoon.
I was a little concerned that Noah was going to do a 180 too fast and fall for Hannah quickly after being rejected by the other girl, but it wasn’t that way at all—and because of that angst which about did me in (and a kiss being a bit too much for me), I’m giving it a 3.5. 😅 I think I would have wished for a couple different plot points to be different. (Such as Margaret. I have the Veggie Tales meme running on a billboard in my mind: “It was nice to meet you. Now go away.” Didn’t like her a fraction of an ounce. Now, I wasn’t supposed to, but I don’t want to see her again in this series. I have a lingering feeling we’ll see her again and I’m not happy about it. 🤨)
All of that said, besides one kiss that was a little much for my personal tastes and a couple suggestions in the epilogue, it was pretty clean, which was nice. I think I struggled with understanding Hannah and Noah because of the writing style at times (perhaps? I’m not sure what else it would have been?), but will definitely be seeing about reading the author’s other books.
Main Content-
Hannah attends a church service and struggles to focus on the “droning” vicar’s words (at the end of the service, she thinks it felt like the longest hour of her life).
Noah compares Hannah to a “goddess on the shores of the water”.
A few mentions of church going & some paying attention to the sermon; A couple mentions of a possible ghost (teasing); A couple mentions of luck; A mention of saying a prayer (but not towards Whom).
No language stronger than regency phrases like “blast” and “lud”; Noah also asks if he sounds like a “pansy”; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A couple lies; Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Hannah’s parents have moved six times to try to find her a husband (moving each time she acts unladylike and society whispers about it); Because of this, Hannah feels rather like an animal being auctioned off & they do not offer praise freely at home; Hannah admits to Noah that she would be fine to be away from her parents and even longs for it; She has a conversation with her mother about her feelings.
When upset, Noah drinks his father’s brandy (“welcoming the burn” from it and his father cautions him about the effects of drinking when you’re not used to it).
Mentions of wine & drinking; A few comments about men not usually wanting a woman’s opinion; A couple mentions of lies & lying.
1 hand kiss,
1 cheek kiss,
3 head/nose kisses,
5 kisses lasting a sentence,
3 kisses lasting a couple sentences (one told from both perspectives, counted twice),
1 kiss lasting a few sentences,
1 kiss lasting 2-3 paragraphs (7-9+ sentences, but more emotion based than physical details).
Remembering a kiss (up to a couple sentences);
Wanting to kiss & Staring at lips (up to a couple sentences).
Touches, Embraces, Butterflies, Warmth, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (including her figure, up to a couple sentences); Remembering touches, embraces, & nearness (up to a couple sentences); Wanting to touch & hold hands (up to a few sentences).
Teasing innuendo in the epilogue about a game (kissing) leading into a pregnancy.
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of flirting & flirts; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of chaperones & reputations; A few mentions of women’s figures; A mention of a woman’s figure being good for rearing children; A mention of men tracing Hannah’s form with their “hungry glances”.
I’ve been wanting to try out another book by this author and this cover made me put it to the top of her book list, because really! I absolutely adore this cover and all the flowers. Just so very, very pretty. Stunning, even.
As far as the inside, I overall liked both Noah and Hannah. Not a great amount as I feel like I didn’t fully understand their logic (or lack there of) with some comments or actions, but I honestly felt for Hannah. Her parents love her, but are also controlling and want her married. This includes moving every six months to a new area to meet new men after the current men see one of Hannah’s unladylike habits—such as her loud sneezing, her laughing without a care, etc. it was such slight things to nitpick in my modern eyes, but not things a graceful lady of that time period should be seen doing.
For Noah, I felt so bad for him at the beginning. You can tell he is beyond smitten for this girl (who is not the FMC, so I really could have told him it wasn’t going to work out) and then, heartbreak. Bless him. He was a little too sappy and emotional/teary for my tastes as a MMC, but he had his sweet moments. And stupid ones too, if I’m being honest. But I love a cinnamon role MMC so I can’t really complain about it.
I do have to say that I loved how Noah’s biggest goal in his life and why he worked was to provide for his future wife and children. Swoon.
I was a little concerned that Noah was going to do a 180 too fast and fall for Hannah quickly after being rejected by the other girl, but it wasn’t that way at all—and because of that angst which about did me in (and a kiss being a bit too much for me), I’m giving it a 3.5. 😅 I think I would have wished for a couple different plot points to be different. (Such as Margaret. I have the Veggie Tales meme running on a billboard in my mind: “It was nice to meet you. Now go away.” Didn’t like her a fraction of an ounce. Now, I wasn’t supposed to, but I don’t want to see her again in this series. I have a lingering feeling we’ll see her again and I’m not happy about it. 🤨)
All of that said, besides one kiss that was a little much for my personal tastes and a couple suggestions in the epilogue, it was pretty clean, which was nice. I think I struggled with understanding Hannah and Noah because of the writing style at times (perhaps? I’m not sure what else it would have been?), but will definitely be seeing about reading the author’s other books.
Main Content-
Hannah attends a church service and struggles to focus on the “droning” vicar’s words (at the end of the service, she thinks it felt like the longest hour of her life).
Noah compares Hannah to a “goddess on the shores of the water”.
A few mentions of church going & some paying attention to the sermon; A couple mentions of a possible ghost (teasing); A couple mentions of luck; A mention of saying a prayer (but not towards Whom).
No language stronger than regency phrases like “blast” and “lud”; Noah also asks if he sounds like a “pansy”; A couple mentions of curses (said, not written); A couple lies; Eye rolling & Sarcasm.
Hannah’s parents have moved six times to try to find her a husband (moving each time she acts unladylike and society whispers about it); Because of this, Hannah feels rather like an animal being auctioned off & they do not offer praise freely at home; Hannah admits to Noah that she would be fine to be away from her parents and even longs for it; She has a conversation with her mother about her feelings.
When upset, Noah drinks his father’s brandy (“welcoming the burn” from it and his father cautions him about the effects of drinking when you’re not used to it).
Mentions of wine & drinking; A few comments about men not usually wanting a woman’s opinion; A couple mentions of lies & lying.
1 hand kiss,
1 cheek kiss,
3 head/nose kisses,
5 kisses lasting a sentence,
3 kisses lasting a couple sentences (one told from both perspectives, counted twice),
1 kiss lasting a few sentences,
1 kiss lasting 2-3 paragraphs (7-9+ sentences, but more emotion based than physical details).
Remembering a kiss (up to a couple sentences);
Wanting to kiss & Staring at lips (up to a couple sentences).
Touches, Embraces, Butterflies, Warmth, Nearness, Smelling, & Noticing (including her figure, up to a couple sentences); Remembering touches, embraces, & nearness (up to a couple sentences); Wanting to touch & hold hands (up to a few sentences).
Teasing innuendo in the epilogue about a game (kissing) leading into a pregnancy.
Mentions of kisses & kissing; Mentions of flirting & flirts; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of chaperones & reputations; A few mentions of women’s figures; A mention of a woman’s figure being good for rearing children; A mention of men tracing Hannah’s form with their “hungry glances”.
October 10, 2026
Gaaawd, this is so boring 🥱 28% in and he’s still pining after some shallow society miss. Nothing is happening, zero romance, less than zero chemistry. I’m out. One star for the cover 💗
May 3, 2025
I found the characters genuinely engaging. I admired how receptive he was to her advice, showcasing a depth of character that draws you in. His loyalty to Margaret, despite her shortcomings, really stood out; he didn’t simply walk away.
I appreciate that Noah and Hannah’s relationship began with a foundation of friendship, which is truly the best way to cultivate a lasting bond. They complemented each other beautifully. It was refreshing to see that she wasn’t overwhelming for him. When you connect with the right person, things just click. I loved how they listened to and supported each other. And that first kiss? Totally unexpected! I found myself increasingly disliking Margaret and her family; it’s astounding what some will do to gain power. I was thrilled with the fully realized happy ending. No more spoilers from me! I'm hoping there will be more books about his brothers.
A delightful and wholesome period romance that both you and your daughter will cherish!
This was a dream come true to ARC for one of my favorite authors. 🥰
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book and read it with pleasure. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
I appreciate that Noah and Hannah’s relationship began with a foundation of friendship, which is truly the best way to cultivate a lasting bond. They complemented each other beautifully. It was refreshing to see that she wasn’t overwhelming for him. When you connect with the right person, things just click. I loved how they listened to and supported each other. And that first kiss? Totally unexpected! I found myself increasingly disliking Margaret and her family; it’s astounding what some will do to gain power. I was thrilled with the fully realized happy ending. No more spoilers from me! I'm hoping there will be more books about his brothers.
A delightful and wholesome period romance that both you and your daughter will cherish!
This was a dream come true to ARC for one of my favorite authors. 🥰
I received a complimentary e-copy of this book and read it with pleasure. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.
June 1, 2025
This was a very sweet and charming regency. I saw a lot of rave reviews and I loved the cover so I decided to dive in! Normally, I'm not a huge fan of the friends-to-more trope, but I thought it was handled really well here. I actually don't mind it when the H/h meet, become friends and then it develops naturally. Which is what happens here. Hannah and Noah had a very interesting meet cute and a natural friendship grew out of their entertaining first encounters. I liked them both and thought overall it was a fun read.
Content Rated G
Romance: Clean, mild kissing
Language: None
Violence: None
Content Rated G
Romance: Clean, mild kissing
Language: None
Violence: None
May 13, 2025
Oh my goodness this book is beautiful! This story and these characters have stolen my heart! This book had me laughing, smiling, swooning, and it gave me the happiest tears.
This book had me from the surprising and adorable meet cute to the genuine and caring friendship to so much more!
Hannah and Noah are such lovable characters! They felt like old friends, and the way the author wrote made me feel apart of their story! I love the way they truly see each other, and their adorable friendship made the romance so much sweeter!!!! I looked forward to every single moment they were together!!!
To top it all off the gorgeous setting by the sea and all of the scenes at the bluffs! Be still my romantic and ocean loving heart!!!!
Read for:
🌸Gorgeous setting
🌸Endearing characters
🌸Fiery and giggly heroine
🌸Sweet and romantic hero
🌸Friends to more
🌸Unrequited love
🌸Laugh out loud scenes
🌸The most tender and romantic scenes
🌸Heart warming story
🌸Utterly romantic
🌸Truly seeing each other!
🌸That ending!!!!
This is a beautiful regency romance that has everything you could ever want in a story. It is beautifully written, and hopelessly romantic. I loved the adventure this incredible story took me on. Hannah and Noah are a favorite couple and their story is so enjoyable and enchanting! An absolute must read for all romance lovers everywhere!!!!!
P.S. I just can’t get over this stunning cover!🌸
.
.
.
Thank you to the author for the arc copy. All opinions are my own.
Content: kisses only
This book had me from the surprising and adorable meet cute to the genuine and caring friendship to so much more!
Hannah and Noah are such lovable characters! They felt like old friends, and the way the author wrote made me feel apart of their story! I love the way they truly see each other, and their adorable friendship made the romance so much sweeter!!!! I looked forward to every single moment they were together!!!
To top it all off the gorgeous setting by the sea and all of the scenes at the bluffs! Be still my romantic and ocean loving heart!!!!
Read for:
🌸Gorgeous setting
🌸Endearing characters
🌸Fiery and giggly heroine
🌸Sweet and romantic hero
🌸Friends to more
🌸Unrequited love
🌸Laugh out loud scenes
🌸The most tender and romantic scenes
🌸Heart warming story
🌸Utterly romantic
🌸Truly seeing each other!
🌸That ending!!!!
This is a beautiful regency romance that has everything you could ever want in a story. It is beautifully written, and hopelessly romantic. I loved the adventure this incredible story took me on. Hannah and Noah are a favorite couple and their story is so enjoyable and enchanting! An absolute must read for all romance lovers everywhere!!!!!
P.S. I just can’t get over this stunning cover!🌸
.
.
.
Thank you to the author for the arc copy. All opinions are my own.
Content: kisses only
April 28, 2025
This story is absolute perfection! The writing is amazing, and the story is just beautiful! Hannah and Noah are such a great couple. They start off as friends, just there for one another and have real deep connecting conversations. I loved how they progressed to more and that it was very realistic and beautiful. There were lots of cute moments like the picnic on the bluff. I also enjoyed the bee scene, yay for Noah. There is another scene at the bluff which is so touching. I also loved Noah’s family. If you don’t normally like friends to lovers, I think this one will be different for you, as it was for me. If you do like friends to lovers you will also love this one. This is the best book by this author to date! I most definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
April 26, 2025
a beguiled gentleman is audra wells at her absolute best. this story feels like the moment everything clicked for her as an author. the emotional depth, the pacing, the characters — it’s all so beautifully done. i was hooked from the first not-so-cute meet cute and absolutely loved watching hannah and noah’s “friendship of convenience” grow into something honest, deep, and real. it’s a friends to lovers romance with the kind of foundation that makes every swoony moment hit harder.
noah took a minute to grow on me, but that just made his arc even better. the way he slowly figured out what true love and real friendship look like was so satisfying. and hannah’s journey was just as moving. watching her stop trying to shrink herself to fit into her mother’s mold and finally step into who she really is…gahhhh, i just loved that so much. both noah and hannah’s growth felt natural and fit the progression of the story perfectly. they truly brought out the best versions of each other!
and then there’s the angst. excuse me?! i was not expecting it, but i ate it up! the tension, the rawness of the first kiss, the ache of wanting more but being scared to ask for it. there’s even a bit of other woman drama, but it worked here. it wasn’t just drama for drama’s sake; it was the moment that really showed noah’s growth. it made his feelings for hannah that much clearer, that much deeper and the payoff was so worth it. plus, the resolution between hannah and her mom added a quiet emotional weight that tied everything together perfectly. and that epilogue?! perfection. 10/10. no notes.
content: kisses
thanks to the author for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.
noah took a minute to grow on me, but that just made his arc even better. the way he slowly figured out what true love and real friendship look like was so satisfying. and hannah’s journey was just as moving. watching her stop trying to shrink herself to fit into her mother’s mold and finally step into who she really is…gahhhh, i just loved that so much. both noah and hannah’s growth felt natural and fit the progression of the story perfectly. they truly brought out the best versions of each other!
and then there’s the angst. excuse me?! i was not expecting it, but i ate it up! the tension, the rawness of the first kiss, the ache of wanting more but being scared to ask for it. there’s even a bit of other woman drama, but it worked here. it wasn’t just drama for drama’s sake; it was the moment that really showed noah’s growth. it made his feelings for hannah that much clearer, that much deeper and the payoff was so worth it. plus, the resolution between hannah and her mom added a quiet emotional weight that tied everything together perfectly. and that epilogue?! perfection. 10/10. no notes.
content: kisses
thanks to the author for a gifted copy. my thoughts are my own.
April 25, 2025
A Delightfully Romantic Escape!
Audra Wells delivers pure magic in A Beguiled Gentleman. From the very first page, I was utterly charmed by the sharp wit, sparkling dialogue, and undeniable chemistry between the leads. The flirtatious banter is so clever and comical, it had me grinning constantly—and more than once, I laughed out loud. It’s the kind of romance that feels timeless, where every glance, every line of dialogue, carries that delicious tension that makes your heart race.
What sets this novel apart is how effortlessly it blends humor and heart. The characters are vivid and so well-drawn, you feel like you’re eavesdropping on a real couple falling in love. The romantic moments are genuine, tender, and at times, breathtakingly swoony. Wells knows how to build a slow burn that keeps you hooked while delivering the kind of payoff that makes your heart melt.
A Beguiled Gentleman is not just a love story—it’s a beautifully written, emotionally satisfying journey with characters you’ll root for from beginning to end. If you're a fan of sparkling banter, heartfelt romance, and stories that leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page, this is a must-read. I can’t recommend this enough!
Audra Wells delivers pure magic in A Beguiled Gentleman. From the very first page, I was utterly charmed by the sharp wit, sparkling dialogue, and undeniable chemistry between the leads. The flirtatious banter is so clever and comical, it had me grinning constantly—and more than once, I laughed out loud. It’s the kind of romance that feels timeless, where every glance, every line of dialogue, carries that delicious tension that makes your heart race.
What sets this novel apart is how effortlessly it blends humor and heart. The characters are vivid and so well-drawn, you feel like you’re eavesdropping on a real couple falling in love. The romantic moments are genuine, tender, and at times, breathtakingly swoony. Wells knows how to build a slow burn that keeps you hooked while delivering the kind of payoff that makes your heart melt.
A Beguiled Gentleman is not just a love story—it’s a beautifully written, emotionally satisfying journey with characters you’ll root for from beginning to end. If you're a fan of sparkling banter, heartfelt romance, and stories that leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page, this is a must-read. I can’t recommend this enough!
May 14, 2025
"I love everything that makes you, you."
A Beguiled Gentleman by Audra Wells
I just found my newest Favorite Regency Romance author!
My First Audra Wells book! Awwww happiest of happy sighs! I loved this book so much! Easily all the stars!
Even though this was my first AW book, it most definitely won't be my last, because I'm hooked!
Hannah and Noah meet in a chance encounter when Hannah bumps into him at the Linsfield ball. Noah is nursing wounds from a woman's rejection when he meets Hannah. They become instant friends. Their romance is so sweet, and gentle, and tender. This book is the perfect example of friends to lovers done right! I've read a few friends to lovers books where the miscommunication just ruined the book for me. But this is NOT one of them. It was so well-done. With a little bit of angst, but ALL the swoon, this book is one that will delight any Regency Romance lover!
Hannah Gibbons. She is chaotic, awkward, unsure of herself, and I love her for her insecurities and weaknesses. Because Hannah is me, and I am Hannah. I saw myself in Hannah so much. I am so awkward, and clumsy at times, and definitely don't say the right things in public. So I related well to Hannah and her struggles in society. Hannah is also kind and sweet, intelligent, beautiful, and so loyal!
Noah Bradley. He is probably one of the sweetest male main characters you will ever read about. I loved him so much! He loves fiercely, is also loyal to his family, healing from his wounds, and just so gentle and kind.
There were moments where I was laughing, and then moments I was weeping for them. Then the next where I was grinning ear to ear again.
I was savoring this book right until the very last word, I didn't want it to end.
I definitely do recommend this new favorite of mine to anyone who loves regency romance. All the stars and hearts!!
Be right back, I'm off to go read the rest of Audra's books.
Favorite Parts:
Meet cute
The bluffs
Lemon drops
Friends to lovers
Berry picking
Tower
The ball
Fruit tart
The Ending
Content Guide:
Language: none
Romance Content: Sweet kisses
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: Mild-Characters drink brandy and port
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: Prayer is mentioned once
Other: strained family relationship/overbearing mother
Book Info:
Series: Bradley Brothers bk 1
Genre: Historical Romance; Regency
Romance Level: Sweet kisses
Release Date: May 13
Publisher: Indie
POV: Dual
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
A Beguiled Gentleman by Audra Wells
I just found my newest Favorite Regency Romance author!
My First Audra Wells book! Awwww happiest of happy sighs! I loved this book so much! Easily all the stars!
Even though this was my first AW book, it most definitely won't be my last, because I'm hooked!
Hannah and Noah meet in a chance encounter when Hannah bumps into him at the Linsfield ball. Noah is nursing wounds from a woman's rejection when he meets Hannah. They become instant friends. Their romance is so sweet, and gentle, and tender. This book is the perfect example of friends to lovers done right! I've read a few friends to lovers books where the miscommunication just ruined the book for me. But this is NOT one of them. It was so well-done. With a little bit of angst, but ALL the swoon, this book is one that will delight any Regency Romance lover!
Hannah Gibbons. She is chaotic, awkward, unsure of herself, and I love her for her insecurities and weaknesses. Because Hannah is me, and I am Hannah. I saw myself in Hannah so much. I am so awkward, and clumsy at times, and definitely don't say the right things in public. So I related well to Hannah and her struggles in society. Hannah is also kind and sweet, intelligent, beautiful, and so loyal!
Noah Bradley. He is probably one of the sweetest male main characters you will ever read about. I loved him so much! He loves fiercely, is also loyal to his family, healing from his wounds, and just so gentle and kind.
There were moments where I was laughing, and then moments I was weeping for them. Then the next where I was grinning ear to ear again.
I was savoring this book right until the very last word, I didn't want it to end.
I definitely do recommend this new favorite of mine to anyone who loves regency romance. All the stars and hearts!!
Be right back, I'm off to go read the rest of Audra's books.
Favorite Parts:
Meet cute
The bluffs
Lemon drops
Friends to lovers
Berry picking
Tower
The ball
Fruit tart
The Ending
Content Guide:
Language: none
Romance Content: Sweet kisses
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: Mild-Characters drink brandy and port
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: Prayer is mentioned once
Other: strained family relationship/overbearing mother
Book Info:
Series: Bradley Brothers bk 1
Genre: Historical Romance; Regency
Romance Level: Sweet kisses
Release Date: May 13
Publisher: Indie
POV: Dual
Thank you to the Author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.
April 27, 2025
Oh my goodness!! Audra has made me a friends to lovers fan with this exceptional story! I’m not a fan normally of the ftl trope this is done so well!
Noah is desperately in love with the woman of his dreams, but those dreams turn to a nightmare when she refuses his proposal. He is devastated. He feels as if his life is falling apart before his eyes.
Hannah is the new girl in town—again. She struggles to maintain a perfect composure and etiquette her mother requires. So when she makes a mistake or fails to live up to society’s standards, her mother packs up and moves to a new town where Hannah’s foibles are unknown.
Hannah and Noah cross paths when she attempts to help him save face after his disastrous proposal. From there they come to an agreement to assist each other in certain matters and a sweet, genuine friendship begins, and despite Hannah’s best efforts her feelings become much more than she had planned.
This story was an utter delight from start to finish. There are so many sweet moments I’d love to share but I won’t ruin it for you. You need to experience it for yourself. Noah has some moments that remind me a little of Wesley and that makes me love him even more.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this lovely story. Thank you @authoraudrawells for allowing me to read an early copy of this book. I loved it wholeheartedly!
#audrawells #abeguiledgentleman #regencyromance #friendstolovers #sweetromance #bookstagram #arcreview #arcreader
Noah is desperately in love with the woman of his dreams, but those dreams turn to a nightmare when she refuses his proposal. He is devastated. He feels as if his life is falling apart before his eyes.
Hannah is the new girl in town—again. She struggles to maintain a perfect composure and etiquette her mother requires. So when she makes a mistake or fails to live up to society’s standards, her mother packs up and moves to a new town where Hannah’s foibles are unknown.
Hannah and Noah cross paths when she attempts to help him save face after his disastrous proposal. From there they come to an agreement to assist each other in certain matters and a sweet, genuine friendship begins, and despite Hannah’s best efforts her feelings become much more than she had planned.
This story was an utter delight from start to finish. There are so many sweet moments I’d love to share but I won’t ruin it for you. You need to experience it for yourself. Noah has some moments that remind me a little of Wesley and that makes me love him even more.
I highly, HIGHLY recommend this lovely story. Thank you @authoraudrawells for allowing me to read an early copy of this book. I loved it wholeheartedly!
#audrawells #abeguiledgentleman #regencyromance #friendstolovers #sweetromance #bookstagram #arcreview #arcreader
May 18, 2025
WOW 🤩🥰 If you love friends to more, slow burn romances, and expert Regency settings, try A Beguiled Gentleman today!
THIS BOOK WAS SOOOO GOOD. WOWWW. I loved the friendship that bloomed between Hannah and Noah. It was so sweet and grounded. The pair grew together and helped each other overcome insecurities. I adored how Hannah gave Noah confidence and Noah showed Hannah that she was a treasure. Romances like this are SO heartwarming and real.
Also, Audra expertly handled the slow burn romance! From the plot twists to the yearning moments, I was hooked. I loved how I just kept thinking about picking up this book and reading until the end. Continuing, Audra writes the Regency setting so well. I always feel immersed in her stories and I LOVED the cliff scenes!
Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl
CW: MMC drinks one glass of whisky to calm his nerves.
THIS BOOK WAS SOOOO GOOD. WOWWW. I loved the friendship that bloomed between Hannah and Noah. It was so sweet and grounded. The pair grew together and helped each other overcome insecurities. I adored how Hannah gave Noah confidence and Noah showed Hannah that she was a treasure. Romances like this are SO heartwarming and real.
Also, Audra expertly handled the slow burn romance! From the plot twists to the yearning moments, I was hooked. I loved how I just kept thinking about picking up this book and reading until the end. Continuing, Audra writes the Regency setting so well. I always feel immersed in her stories and I LOVED the cliff scenes!
Happy reading,
Bethany the Bookworm Girl
CW: MMC drinks one glass of whisky to calm his nerves.
June 28, 2025
Oh my word, this friends to more story gave me ALL the feels! A friendship forged because of a disaster of a failed proposal brings Hannah and Noah into a truly vulnerable and heart-warming relationship. I loved how they saw each other and how they supported one another—and how they each realized they were totally in love. A total swoon-worthy delight!
February 3, 2025
Review to come 🩷
May 16, 2025
Reread October 2026
🌷 “You are fire, Hannah Gibbons. Promise me you won’t let anyone put out your light.” 🌷
I loved this story just as much as I did the first time 💖
It’s so sweet, with adorable and kind main characters I can really connect with emotionally.
The sincere friendship that blossoms so easily between them is lovely, and the feelings that develop later on go straight to my heart.
Hannah’s unrequited love breaks my heart every time! Yes, I cried again while reading it, haha 😂😭
And Noah! Sweet, clueless Noah stole my heart all over again.
And that epilogue… It makes me so happy!
This is a beautiful story that I highly recommend 🙌🏻
🌷 What if Noah never stopped seeing her as a mere friend?...” 🌷
Original review:
Added to my FAVORITE BOOKS ❤️
I loved this book so much!
The pages filled my heart with this sweet story. I must admit I cried quite a bit while reading 🤭
I loved Lord Noah, he is a cinnamon roll, a gentleman in every sense of the word, he is loving and dreams of love. Watching him heal his broken heart was wonderful.
Hannah is unique, authentic and I loved her. Watching her value herself and find a place to belong was beautiful.
I have not stopped thinking about this beautiful story! I love every word of this book.
I'm looking forward to the stories of the other Bradley brothers, especially sweet Donald.
Hannah's family has moved six times to escape her "social mistakes" as her parents want her to get married. Hannah feels that they see her as a way to move up socially and she also feels very lonely, she has no one...until she meets Noah.
Lord Noah, after being harshly rejected by the woman he loves, finds healing for his aching heart in his new friend, a sincere and optimistic young lady who makes him see things from a different perspective, and makes him wonder if he has truly known love.
You will find:
🍋 Strangers to friends to lovers
🍋 Dual Pov
🍋 She Falls First
🍋 Unrequited love
🍋 Challenges of adulthood
🍋 Sneezes and bees
🍋 Cliffs
🍋 Found Family
🍋 Sweet epilogue
~ Hannah often wondered if people ever saw her for herself, or only for what she came with—money. ~
✨ Check out this review—with aesthetic, edits, quotes, and more—on Instagram: @sina.venus.booklover
🌷 “You are fire, Hannah Gibbons. Promise me you won’t let anyone put out your light.” 🌷
I loved this story just as much as I did the first time 💖
It’s so sweet, with adorable and kind main characters I can really connect with emotionally.
The sincere friendship that blossoms so easily between them is lovely, and the feelings that develop later on go straight to my heart.
Hannah’s unrequited love breaks my heart every time! Yes, I cried again while reading it, haha 😂😭
And Noah! Sweet, clueless Noah stole my heart all over again.
And that epilogue… It makes me so happy!
This is a beautiful story that I highly recommend 🙌🏻
🌷 What if Noah never stopped seeing her as a mere friend?...” 🌷
Original review:
Added to my FAVORITE BOOKS ❤️
I loved this book so much!
The pages filled my heart with this sweet story. I must admit I cried quite a bit while reading 🤭
I loved Lord Noah, he is a cinnamon roll, a gentleman in every sense of the word, he is loving and dreams of love. Watching him heal his broken heart was wonderful.
Hannah is unique, authentic and I loved her. Watching her value herself and find a place to belong was beautiful.
I have not stopped thinking about this beautiful story! I love every word of this book.
I'm looking forward to the stories of the other Bradley brothers, especially sweet Donald.
Hannah's family has moved six times to escape her "social mistakes" as her parents want her to get married. Hannah feels that they see her as a way to move up socially and she also feels very lonely, she has no one...until she meets Noah.
Lord Noah, after being harshly rejected by the woman he loves, finds healing for his aching heart in his new friend, a sincere and optimistic young lady who makes him see things from a different perspective, and makes him wonder if he has truly known love.
You will find:
🍋 Strangers to friends to lovers
🍋 Dual Pov
🍋 She Falls First
🍋 Unrequited love
🍋 Challenges of adulthood
🍋 Sneezes and bees
🍋 Cliffs
🍋 Found Family
🍋 Sweet epilogue
~ Hannah often wondered if people ever saw her for herself, or only for what she came with—money. ~
✨ Check out this review—with aesthetic, edits, quotes, and more—on Instagram: @sina.venus.booklover
May 22, 2025
4.5 stars
This book took me by surprise! Friends to lovers is a hit or miss for me, but this one was a definite hit!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
I loved both Hannah and Noah. They are both such lovable characters, and their friendship developed effortlessly. I love how love really snuck up on both of them, just at different times. Communication was key to their relationship, and I’m not mad about it!! So many moments had me laughing out loud, while other moments had my heart pounding in anticipation. The romantic tension was oh, so good!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
It took me a little while to become really invested, but then suddenly I was all in! It became “unputdownable” at one point, and I completely ignored my family for a short while!
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I’m very excited about this new series!
🌶️ kissing
🤬 none
This book took me by surprise! Friends to lovers is a hit or miss for me, but this one was a definite hit!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
I loved both Hannah and Noah. They are both such lovable characters, and their friendship developed effortlessly. I love how love really snuck up on both of them, just at different times. Communication was key to their relationship, and I’m not mad about it!! So many moments had me laughing out loud, while other moments had my heart pounding in anticipation. The romantic tension was oh, so good!
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚𝙙:
It took me a little while to become really invested, but then suddenly I was all in! It became “unputdownable” at one point, and I completely ignored my family for a short while!
𝙊𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
Thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I’m very excited about this new series!
🌶️ kissing
🤬 none
April 26, 2025
I do love a good friends to lovers as long as it's done well, and this one was so unique I absolutely devoured it! Hannah and Noah were so much fun and I loved their genuine friendship before they recognized their feelings. Were they a bit blind? Yes! Did I love it? Also yes! Their relationship was so honest and realistic and just so full of fun, and it really is the epitome of "marry your best friend" in the best way. I can't wait to see what happens with the other Bradley brothers!
May 16, 2025
“𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒏𝒆 𝒇𝒂𝒍𝒍𝒔 𝒊𝒏 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒊𝒓 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒕 𝒇𝒓𝒊𝒆𝒏𝒅, 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒉𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒎 𝒃𝒂𝒄𝒌?”
I’m not normally fond of overly emotional men who wear their heart on their sleeve, but Noah somehow wormed his way into my heart ♥️ His character was the ooiest and gooiest of cinnamon rolls, with the biggest golden retriever energy about him—aka, absolute perfection for a Miss fiery redheaded Hannah Gibbons 🤭 Their dynamic was absolutely ✨SUBLIME✨ and left me aching for more time with them. If there were ever two people perfect for each other, it would have to be Noah & Hannah!
What started out as the dearest and most vibrant of friendships quickly turned into the most splendid of relationships. GAHHH!! These two were an absolute delight! With Hannah’s bold, vivacious spirit and Noah’s bright, loving persona combined in a whirlwind of golden delight and fiery charm, we were blessed with this gem of a story! (If I haven’t convinced you yet—which I’m not sure how you wouldn’t be by now—then just keep reading!)
If you know me, then you know that friends-to-lovers is not usually my jam. But…this book was definitely an exception! I loved watching Noah & Hannah grow from tumbling-onto-the-floor-together acquaintances to I-can’t-live-without-you soulmates ♥️ Each interaction was highly enjoyable and kept me thoroughly entertained! I loved that Hannah was such a unique character with the best quirks, and I adored the way that Noah did not think her odd for them, but rather encouraged her to keep on being her genuine self. They supported one another beautifully and truly highlighted each other’s strengths!
I can’t not mention the petty encounter between Margaret and Hannah—I was literally dying 🤭 The humor in this book was incredible and had me laughing out loud multiple times!
Read it for:
🐝 Friends-to-lovers trope
🐝 Duo POV
🐝 Cute & amusing interactions
🐝 Fiery-spirited redheaded FMC
🐝 Gentle-spirited MMC
🐝 She falls first
Favorite quotes:
“𝚆𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚎𝚕𝚜𝚎 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚏𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚏 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚙 𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚏𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖𝚜?”
“𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚎, 𝙷𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚊𝚑 𝙶𝚒𝚋𝚋𝚘𝚗𝚜. 𝙿𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝚖𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚢𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚙𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝.”
“𝙱𝚎𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚒𝚜 𝚙𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚖𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚜𝚘.”
“𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚕𝚢 𝚙𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚞𝚎𝚍, 𝚖𝚢 𝚕𝚊𝚍𝚢.”
I’m not normally fond of overly emotional men who wear their heart on their sleeve, but Noah somehow wormed his way into my heart ♥️ His character was the ooiest and gooiest of cinnamon rolls, with the biggest golden retriever energy about him—aka, absolute perfection for a Miss fiery redheaded Hannah Gibbons 🤭 Their dynamic was absolutely ✨SUBLIME✨ and left me aching for more time with them. If there were ever two people perfect for each other, it would have to be Noah & Hannah!
What started out as the dearest and most vibrant of friendships quickly turned into the most splendid of relationships. GAHHH!! These two were an absolute delight! With Hannah’s bold, vivacious spirit and Noah’s bright, loving persona combined in a whirlwind of golden delight and fiery charm, we were blessed with this gem of a story! (If I haven’t convinced you yet—which I’m not sure how you wouldn’t be by now—then just keep reading!)
If you know me, then you know that friends-to-lovers is not usually my jam. But…this book was definitely an exception! I loved watching Noah & Hannah grow from tumbling-onto-the-floor-together acquaintances to I-can’t-live-without-you soulmates ♥️ Each interaction was highly enjoyable and kept me thoroughly entertained! I loved that Hannah was such a unique character with the best quirks, and I adored the way that Noah did not think her odd for them, but rather encouraged her to keep on being her genuine self. They supported one another beautifully and truly highlighted each other’s strengths!
I can’t not mention the petty encounter between Margaret and Hannah—I was literally dying 🤭 The humor in this book was incredible and had me laughing out loud multiple times!
Read it for:
🐝 Friends-to-lovers trope
🐝 Duo POV
🐝 Cute & amusing interactions
🐝 Fiery-spirited redheaded FMC
🐝 Gentle-spirited MMC
🐝 She falls first
Favorite quotes:
“𝚆𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚎𝚕𝚜𝚎 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚏𝚛𝚒𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚜 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚒𝚏 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚙 𝚎𝚊𝚌𝚑 𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚛 𝚏𝚞𝚕𝚏𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚎𝚒𝚛 𝚍𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚖𝚜?”
“𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚏𝚒𝚛𝚎, 𝙷𝚊𝚗𝚗𝚊𝚑 𝙶𝚒𝚋𝚋𝚘𝚗𝚜. 𝙿𝚛𝚘𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚎 𝚖𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚘𝚗’𝚝 𝚕𝚎𝚝 𝚊𝚗𝚢𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚙𝚞𝚝 𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚕𝚒𝚐𝚑𝚝.”
“𝙱𝚎𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚒𝚜 𝚙𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚒𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚢 𝚠𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎𝚜 𝚖𝚎 𝚕𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚜𝚘.”
“𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚊𝚋𝚘𝚞𝚝 𝚝𝚘 𝚋𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚕𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚕𝚎𝚜𝚜𝚕𝚢 𝚙𝚞𝚛𝚜𝚞𝚎𝚍, 𝚖𝚢 𝚕𝚊𝚍𝚢.”
May 9, 2025
10 Stars! Honestly, one of the best friends to lovers story! 🌟
This story had all the feels! From the moment Hannah and Noah met, their growing friendship completely captivated me. Hannah is stuck in a world that sees her only for her dowry, but Noah sees her for who she truly is, and their connection is everything! I loved watching their bond grow...especially how Noah pursues her with such intention once he realizes what he’s been missing. But what I loved about them the most was before love even entered the picture, their friendship was unlike anything I had read before, they became the other ones' "everything" before they even realized it.
Hannah’s quirks, the little moments like berry picking, candy shopping, and the bee incident, and so many more... had me swooning, laughing, and even tearing up. Their friendship turns into something neither could have imagined, and it was impossible not to root for them the whole way.
If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy love story with unforgettable characters, don’t miss this one!
Make sure that once you start reading, you can commit to reading it in one sitting... because it is going to be SO hard to put down!
Wow… just wow.
Gosh, I can not wait to experience the next Bradley brothers romance!
I received a complimentary copy, this review reflects my honest opinion.
This story had all the feels! From the moment Hannah and Noah met, their growing friendship completely captivated me. Hannah is stuck in a world that sees her only for her dowry, but Noah sees her for who she truly is, and their connection is everything! I loved watching their bond grow...especially how Noah pursues her with such intention once he realizes what he’s been missing. But what I loved about them the most was before love even entered the picture, their friendship was unlike anything I had read before, they became the other ones' "everything" before they even realized it.
Hannah’s quirks, the little moments like berry picking, candy shopping, and the bee incident, and so many more... had me swooning, laughing, and even tearing up. Their friendship turns into something neither could have imagined, and it was impossible not to root for them the whole way.
If you’re looking for a swoon-worthy love story with unforgettable characters, don’t miss this one!
Make sure that once you start reading, you can commit to reading it in one sitting... because it is going to be SO hard to put down!
Wow… just wow.
Gosh, I can not wait to experience the next Bradley brothers romance!
I received a complimentary copy, this review reflects my honest opinion.
May 13, 2025
Dreamiest friends to lovers!!
Noah is heartbroken when Margaret Lewiston rejects his marriage proposal. And now that he is facing challenges with his career, he is struggling at every turn. He finds a new friend in Hannah, however, and begins to find comfort and joy in their unlikely friendship.
Hannah is tired of moving ever time her impulsive nature strikes and her parents imagine that her reputation is tarnished, and now that she has close friends, she is especially loathe to leave again, especially where it concerns Noah. As her feelings for him begin to move beyond friendship, however, it seems that Noah's heart is still stuck in the past.
What you'll love:
friends to lovers
dual pov
unrequited love
recovering from broken heart
impulsive, fiery heroine
lots of angst and ache!
hopeless romantic hero
picnic on the bluff
laugh out loud moments
swoony kiss!!
It is no secret that friends to lovers is not my favorite trope, but this, my friends, this is how the trope is meant to be written!! There is the sweet friendship that I love BUT it also has SO MUCH ANGST!! Not to mention the sweet friendships, the heart and depth, the laughter and fun, and the inspiring and beautiful romance.
It would be impossible not to fall in love with Hannah and Noah. They are both such lovable and fun and relatable characters. We need more fictional men who are hopeless romantics! The friendship they develop is inspiring as much as as it is beautiful, the kind of friendship where they confide and support and help each other heal...and ultimately the kind that leads to love.
This delightful Regency romance gave me ALL THE FEELS and completely stole my heart. If you are a fan of this genre, this is one book you absolutely cannot miss! All the love from this happy reader!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
Noah is heartbroken when Margaret Lewiston rejects his marriage proposal. And now that he is facing challenges with his career, he is struggling at every turn. He finds a new friend in Hannah, however, and begins to find comfort and joy in their unlikely friendship.
Hannah is tired of moving ever time her impulsive nature strikes and her parents imagine that her reputation is tarnished, and now that she has close friends, she is especially loathe to leave again, especially where it concerns Noah. As her feelings for him begin to move beyond friendship, however, it seems that Noah's heart is still stuck in the past.
What you'll love:
friends to lovers
dual pov
unrequited love
recovering from broken heart
impulsive, fiery heroine
lots of angst and ache!
hopeless romantic hero
picnic on the bluff
laugh out loud moments
swoony kiss!!
It is no secret that friends to lovers is not my favorite trope, but this, my friends, this is how the trope is meant to be written!! There is the sweet friendship that I love BUT it also has SO MUCH ANGST!! Not to mention the sweet friendships, the heart and depth, the laughter and fun, and the inspiring and beautiful romance.
It would be impossible not to fall in love with Hannah and Noah. They are both such lovable and fun and relatable characters. We need more fictional men who are hopeless romantics! The friendship they develop is inspiring as much as as it is beautiful, the kind of friendship where they confide and support and help each other heal...and ultimately the kind that leads to love.
This delightful Regency romance gave me ALL THE FEELS and completely stole my heart. If you are a fan of this genre, this is one book you absolutely cannot miss! All the love from this happy reader!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
August 19, 2025
THIS WAS SWEET.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Audra Wells is easily one of my favorite historical romance authors. Her books hit so well every time and I adored the soft and gentle nature in Noah. And I loved his mindset about being who he wanted to be and figuring things out on his own. Noah had this endearing quality that was easy to love. I wish he was a bit less oblivious to Hannah (and a little less of his ex) though.
Hannah was easy to love. I loved her quirky nature and relatable characteristics. There was a genuine nature to the friends to lovers trope that I did like a lot.
Truly though it was a charming read with many memorable moments. It was swoony and fast paced and so much ground was covered. I loved the hints towards future books and I am just happy to be here with another Audra Wells series.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Audra Wells is easily one of my favorite historical romance authors. Her books hit so well every time and I adored the soft and gentle nature in Noah. And I loved his mindset about being who he wanted to be and figuring things out on his own. Noah had this endearing quality that was easy to love. I wish he was a bit less oblivious to Hannah (and a little less of his ex) though.
Hannah was easy to love. I loved her quirky nature and relatable characteristics. There was a genuine nature to the friends to lovers trope that I did like a lot.
Truly though it was a charming read with many memorable moments. It was swoony and fast paced and so much ground was covered. I loved the hints towards future books and I am just happy to be here with another Audra Wells series.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
January 5, 2026
This book started strong and in a way that I’ve never read before. I was immediately hooked and I think this author has a good writing style. (This is my first book by her)
I adored Hannah. It was easy to feel for this girl who is a bit awkward but is trying to do her best and be a good person. She had her faults, but she made up for them with her humor, bravery and open heart. She was a lovely character.
I really loved a couple of specific scenes. One was heartbreaking and the other was tender and sweet.
THOUGHTS:
The dialogue didn’t consistently feel organic to the time period. “Color me intrigued.” Was the most modern sounding sentence and this kept me from feeling taken back in time and immersed into the story.
Noah was made to be a “golden retriever” character and while I love that, (Mr. Bingley from P&P is a perfect example) it was not accomplished here. Instead of being charming and having a sensitive heart, he was confused about his feelings for most of the book and felt like a 16-year-old boy. I wanted to be romanced by a man, but he was terribly underwhelming.
The beginning was great but then the story was forgettable for about 40%. The plot conflict was unique but also a bit ridiculous.
There were a few scene jumps that I wish we could have experienced with the characters.
OVERALL:
If you like sweet and low conflict romances, this is for you.
I adored Hannah. It was easy to feel for this girl who is a bit awkward but is trying to do her best and be a good person. She had her faults, but she made up for them with her humor, bravery and open heart. She was a lovely character.
I really loved a couple of specific scenes. One was heartbreaking and the other was tender and sweet.
THOUGHTS:
The dialogue didn’t consistently feel organic to the time period. “Color me intrigued.” Was the most modern sounding sentence and this kept me from feeling taken back in time and immersed into the story.
Noah was made to be a “golden retriever” character and while I love that, (Mr. Bingley from P&P is a perfect example) it was not accomplished here. Instead of being charming and having a sensitive heart, he was confused about his feelings for most of the book and felt like a 16-year-old boy. I wanted to be romanced by a man, but he was terribly underwhelming.
The beginning was great but then the story was forgettable for about 40%. The plot conflict was unique but also a bit ridiculous.
There were a few scene jumps that I wish we could have experienced with the characters.
OVERALL:
If you like sweet and low conflict romances, this is for you.
May 14, 2025
I binge read her other books recently and UGH 😩 YALL I CANNOT they’re SO GOOD 🤩 I am so excited for this series to continue 🥰
Hannah. Red hair with a fiery personality to match ❤️ Hannah has so much personality it comes spilling out of her in the most awkward of moments 😳 after a particularly embarrassing encounter 🙈 she realizes the man she witnessed get rejected is now a neighbor 🙉 And surprisingly a really good friend??? 👀
Noah. After being soundly rejected by the love of his life 💔 Noah goes home, only to realize his new neighbor watched his life fall apart in real time 🎬 After some good advice and a surprising friendship 😏 Noah slowly begins to heal ❤️🩹
I ADORED how solid their friendship was before romance got involved 💘 THAT 👏🏻 is how it is done ✔️ scenes I adored: THE CLIFF SCENE 🌊 I had tears STREAMING down my face 😭 I also loved how this story explored learning to love yourself so you can more fully love others 💗
Hannah. Red hair with a fiery personality to match ❤️ Hannah has so much personality it comes spilling out of her in the most awkward of moments 😳 after a particularly embarrassing encounter 🙈 she realizes the man she witnessed get rejected is now a neighbor 🙉 And surprisingly a really good friend??? 👀
Noah. After being soundly rejected by the love of his life 💔 Noah goes home, only to realize his new neighbor watched his life fall apart in real time 🎬 After some good advice and a surprising friendship 😏 Noah slowly begins to heal ❤️🩹
I ADORED how solid their friendship was before romance got involved 💘 THAT 👏🏻 is how it is done ✔️ scenes I adored: THE CLIFF SCENE 🌊 I had tears STREAMING down my face 😭 I also loved how this story explored learning to love yourself so you can more fully love others 💗
October 9, 2026
Cute story, chemistry felt forced sometimes and I wish they had more of a background of being friends. Friends to lovers is several months to a few years long thing. This happened in two months. And idk, I just need more of a buildup of that slow-burn stuff.
April 26, 2025
I loved this story so much!! Hannah and Noah were both such fun and relatable characters. Their first introductions, official and unofficial, were funny. I loved how quickly they became friends.
Things I loved about this book:
-Hannah’s ability to love the people around her easily. Which made you sympathize with her after all her moves and the reasons behind her loving easily.
- their multiple visits to the shore. I loved each one for different reasons.
-Noah being able to see Hannah’s true colors and wanting her to be able to see that too.
-Hannah’s behavior at the last ball— don’t want to give spoilers—it was hilarious.
-Noah loving Hannah’s laugh and finding ways to make her laugh
Favorite Quotes
He narrowed his eyes.
“Are you trying not to laugh right now?”
She shook her head.
“Then say something.” His brow rose as he watched her.
Straining her neck, she took a tight swallow and several deep breaths. “I thank you for your service.” Her lips wobbled, and after desperately trying to hold it, she finally could not stop the laugh as it lifted from her throat.
As if anticipating this very thing, Noah’s mouth broke into a grin. “There. That’s better.”
Her laugh softened, and she tilted her head. “What?”
“I hate to see you hold in your laughter. It cannot be good for one’s health.”
Then his gaze landed on her, and she felt as she always did when with him. Appreciated. Seen. Cared for.
“You are fire, Hannah Gibbons. Promise me you won’t let anyone put out your light.”
Things I loved about this book:
-Hannah’s ability to love the people around her easily. Which made you sympathize with her after all her moves and the reasons behind her loving easily.
- their multiple visits to the shore. I loved each one for different reasons.
-Noah being able to see Hannah’s true colors and wanting her to be able to see that too.
-Hannah’s behavior at the last ball— don’t want to give spoilers—it was hilarious.
-Noah loving Hannah’s laugh and finding ways to make her laugh
Favorite Quotes
He narrowed his eyes.
“Are you trying not to laugh right now?”
She shook her head.
“Then say something.” His brow rose as he watched her.
Straining her neck, she took a tight swallow and several deep breaths. “I thank you for your service.” Her lips wobbled, and after desperately trying to hold it, she finally could not stop the laugh as it lifted from her throat.
As if anticipating this very thing, Noah’s mouth broke into a grin. “There. That’s better.”
Her laugh softened, and she tilted her head. “What?”
“I hate to see you hold in your laughter. It cannot be good for one’s health.”
Then his gaze landed on her, and she felt as she always did when with him. Appreciated. Seen. Cared for.
“You are fire, Hannah Gibbons. Promise me you won’t let anyone put out your light.”
May 15, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Beguiled Gentleman
Author: Audra Wells
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Publication Date: May 13, 2025
I was craving a bookish palate cleanser, and this novel hit the spot! Meet Hannah, a stunning redhead who’s also a wealthy heiress. She is also quite a klutz. Hannah is in town to find a husband, but things take a turn when she witnesses a heartbreaking scene. Young and handsome Noah is rejected by his love, Margaret, at his marriage proposal. They were destined to be together, but Margaret decided to go to London for the season and sell her beauty to the highest bidder. Noah was devastated, and Hannah, an unwilling witness to this fiasco, felt terrible for him. But guess what? Hannah and Noah become the best of friends. Hannah is embarrassed to admit that she saw Noah at his lowest point, but she’s become his confidante and best friend. And as they spend more time together, Hannah falls in love with him. But will their love overcome the misunderstandings, unrequited feelings, and secrets that stand in their way? This heartwarming and simple story is perfect for a break from the serious book stuff. If you’re looking for a delightful love story, you won’t want to miss this one!
#historicalficction #historicalromance #regency #romance #kindleunlimited #love #future #disappointment #misunderstanding #happiness #abeguiledgentleman @authoraudrawells #audrawells #kindleEdition @amazonkindle #kindleunlimited #kindleromance
A Beguiled Gentleman
Author: Audra Wells
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Publication Date: May 13, 2025
I was craving a bookish palate cleanser, and this novel hit the spot! Meet Hannah, a stunning redhead who’s also a wealthy heiress. She is also quite a klutz. Hannah is in town to find a husband, but things take a turn when she witnesses a heartbreaking scene. Young and handsome Noah is rejected by his love, Margaret, at his marriage proposal. They were destined to be together, but Margaret decided to go to London for the season and sell her beauty to the highest bidder. Noah was devastated, and Hannah, an unwilling witness to this fiasco, felt terrible for him. But guess what? Hannah and Noah become the best of friends. Hannah is embarrassed to admit that she saw Noah at his lowest point, but she’s become his confidante and best friend. And as they spend more time together, Hannah falls in love with him. But will their love overcome the misunderstandings, unrequited feelings, and secrets that stand in their way? This heartwarming and simple story is perfect for a break from the serious book stuff. If you’re looking for a delightful love story, you won’t want to miss this one!
#historicalficction #historicalromance #regency #romance #kindleunlimited #love #future #disappointment #misunderstanding #happiness #abeguiledgentleman @authoraudrawells #audrawells #kindleEdition @amazonkindle #kindleunlimited #kindleromance
May 26, 2025
4.5/5
“You are fire, Hannah Gibbons. Promise me you won’t let anyone put out your light.”
* I sense this won’t end well…
* He’s so tender
* Oh Hannah, I love you already
* Their friendship is so sweet and fun!
* Yesss. You go, Noah!
* These two 😭🫶
* Because you do like her, dummy
* Ugh noooo
* Eww she’s the worst
* Awwww!
* We love a family that stands up for each other! 👏
* That may be the best proposal I have ever read, I am crying
Okay, LOVE! Honestly, I could just stop right there. This book was SO good.
“I would much rather have a man who knows my faults and wants me despite them than one who sees only an illusion of my true self.”
Hannah is a girl after my own heart. Besides the fact that we’re both redheads (which I love), Hannah had so many deep feelings that I relate to. I moved so many times growing up and her struggles are so real. I absolutely loved how tender Noah was in helping her gain confidence in herself.
“You deserve to be loved and cherished, Hannah. You deserve someone’s entire heart. Not the mangled thing I have.”
And oh, Noah. How I love him. He is so sweet and tender hearted, and such a genuinely good person. I loved getting to see him grow and heal. And then of course, fall in love ;D
“You are about to be relentlessly pursued, my lady.”
This strangers to friends to lovers was SUCH a delight! I enjoyed it from start to finish. Audra is such a talented author, and this story was no different.
“The sun could make something beautiful that is often seen as unwanted. How many other things in life could benefit from light shining upon them and showing all of their possibilities?”
“Hannah . . . His friend. His confidant. His everything.”
Thanks to the author for the chance to read this one. All opinions are my own.
“You are fire, Hannah Gibbons. Promise me you won’t let anyone put out your light.”
* I sense this won’t end well…
* He’s so tender
* Oh Hannah, I love you already
* Their friendship is so sweet and fun!
* Yesss. You go, Noah!
* These two 😭🫶
* Because you do like her, dummy
* Ugh noooo
* Eww she’s the worst
* Awwww!
* We love a family that stands up for each other! 👏
* That may be the best proposal I have ever read, I am crying
Okay, LOVE! Honestly, I could just stop right there. This book was SO good.
“I would much rather have a man who knows my faults and wants me despite them than one who sees only an illusion of my true self.”
Hannah is a girl after my own heart. Besides the fact that we’re both redheads (which I love), Hannah had so many deep feelings that I relate to. I moved so many times growing up and her struggles are so real. I absolutely loved how tender Noah was in helping her gain confidence in herself.
“You deserve to be loved and cherished, Hannah. You deserve someone’s entire heart. Not the mangled thing I have.”
And oh, Noah. How I love him. He is so sweet and tender hearted, and such a genuinely good person. I loved getting to see him grow and heal. And then of course, fall in love ;D
“You are about to be relentlessly pursued, my lady.”
This strangers to friends to lovers was SUCH a delight! I enjoyed it from start to finish. Audra is such a talented author, and this story was no different.
“The sun could make something beautiful that is often seen as unwanted. How many other things in life could benefit from light shining upon them and showing all of their possibilities?”
“Hannah . . . His friend. His confidant. His everything.”
Thanks to the author for the chance to read this one. All opinions are my own.
May 5, 2025
This is the first book in the Bradley Brothers series. It is a kisses only Regency Era romance.
Recently I have been craving a book where the reader gets to see the whole progression of the romance develop. I am a bit tired of coming in to the story after the characters have a history of some sort with each other. Often times that gives us instant love type books, and those aren't my favorites either.
Audra Wells was able to put together a full romance from meet ugly through friendship and romance without making it feel rushed. I loved that! And she did it in a way that it was easily read in just a couple of days. (And I am not a fast reader. Just ask my Kindle!)
I say all that and now can't wait for the other brothers' stories! Here's hoping for Donald and his hinted at romance to be next!
These characters were so likeable. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this advanced copy provided to me by the author. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Recently I have been craving a book where the reader gets to see the whole progression of the romance develop. I am a bit tired of coming in to the story after the characters have a history of some sort with each other. Often times that gives us instant love type books, and those aren't my favorites either.
Audra Wells was able to put together a full romance from meet ugly through friendship and romance without making it feel rushed. I loved that! And she did it in a way that it was easily read in just a couple of days. (And I am not a fast reader. Just ask my Kindle!)
I say all that and now can't wait for the other brothers' stories! Here's hoping for Donald and his hinted at romance to be next!
These characters were so likeable. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this advanced copy provided to me by the author. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 26, 2025
4.25 ⭐️
I needed this book the moment Audra announced it and waiting was torture! 😂 It’s so ridiculously adorable!
Hannah and Noah are both kinda sappy, and I love that for them. There’s angst, pining, strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, society shenanigans, and powerful sneezes (iykyk). Somehow it never clicked before that Noah is Archie’s brother from An Improper Gentleman, but I love when authors do that.
Now can I pretty please have Donald’s book next? Or any Bradley brother really, I’m not picky. 😂😍
I needed this book the moment Audra announced it and waiting was torture! 😂 It’s so ridiculously adorable!
Hannah and Noah are both kinda sappy, and I love that for them. There’s angst, pining, strangers-to-friends-to-lovers, society shenanigans, and powerful sneezes (iykyk). Somehow it never clicked before that Noah is Archie’s brother from An Improper Gentleman, but I love when authors do that.
Now can I pretty please have Donald’s book next? Or any Bradley brother really, I’m not picky. 😂😍
October 16, 2026
Stayed up so late reading this one, I couldn’t put it down! It is cute and sweet and then BOOM the yearning hits so hard and I had to keep reading to figure out if and when they were going to get together. So so so good!
Noah and Hannah are absolutely adorable. I love the friendship they build together, and how they accept each other just as they are. A true, precious friendship that turns into so much more.
I also didn’t realize that Noah is Archie’s brother from An Improper Gentleman which was SO much fun! Can’t wait to read Donald’s book next.
Noah and Hannah are absolutely adorable. I love the friendship they build together, and how they accept each other just as they are. A true, precious friendship that turns into so much more.
I also didn’t realize that Noah is Archie’s brother from An Improper Gentleman which was SO much fun! Can’t wait to read Donald’s book next.
July 1, 2025
5 stars. This was utterly brilliant! And so refreshing in this genre because it felt like nothing I have ever read before. The friends to lovers trope was done SO WELL. And the author’s descriptions of the people and what was happening were so detailed I could actually picture it. I’m pretty sure I had a constant smile on my face the whole time I was reading.
Although there was that one time I started to tear up…🥹
Although there was that one time I started to tear up…🥹
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