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The Trouble with Anna
“A witty, charming, delight of a book!” —Evie Dunmore, USA TODAY bestselling author
A tart young woman and an arrogant lord collide in this flirty, sexy, and remarkably modern historical romance, perfect for fans of Bridgerton.
Anna didn’t intend to ride in a high-stakes horse race or start up a betting ring. She certainly didn’t mean to find herself in so many darkened corners with Lord Julian Ramsay, quarreling and kissing. But when her grandfather’s strange will stipulates that Anna must marry or she’ll be left broke, there’s nothing she won’t do to win her fight for independence. Even go head-to-head with Lord Ramsay, with her own heart as the prize.
Fans of the slow burn will devour this frenemies-to-lovers story perfect for fans of Sarah MacLean and Evie Dunmore.
A tart young woman and an arrogant lord collide in this flirty, sexy, and remarkably modern historical romance, perfect for fans of Bridgerton.
Anna didn’t intend to ride in a high-stakes horse race or start up a betting ring. She certainly didn’t mean to find herself in so many darkened corners with Lord Julian Ramsay, quarreling and kissing. But when her grandfather’s strange will stipulates that Anna must marry or she’ll be left broke, there’s nothing she won’t do to win her fight for independence. Even go head-to-head with Lord Ramsay, with her own heart as the prize.
Fans of the slow burn will devour this frenemies-to-lovers story perfect for fans of Sarah MacLean and Evie Dunmore.
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First published March 4, 2025
28 people are currently reading
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About the author
Rachel Griffiths
2 books108 followersRachel Griffiths was most recently an editorial director at Scholastic, where she published more than twenty New York Times bestsellers. As you might guess from a book full of high-stakes horse races and romantic midnight rides, she spent much of her childhood in the saddle and knows from painful experience how it feels to take a fall at twenty-five miles per hour.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 204 reviews
August 11, 2025
every time i tried to settle in and enjoy this, the author made the characters do something stupid or added in an irritating conflict. i didn't hate it... in fact i actually liked the romantic relationship but the book ultimately kind of pissed me off? lol
oh and whoever thought a HISTORICAL ROMANCE needed this fuck ass cover... needs help
oh and whoever thought a HISTORICAL ROMANCE needed this fuck ass cover... needs help
April 21, 2025
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖 (It took me a touch to get into this but once I got to about chapter 9 or so I didn’t want to put it down)
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋 (soooo angsty in some parts! My heart was clenching!)
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes!
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine, some minor scenes from the dowager and Charlotte (both side characters)
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: almost immediately (chapter 1)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, about 6 months later
Format: voluntarily read a physical copy of the book gifted to me by the author
Why I chose this book: I was sent a paperback from the author and the blurb on the back sounded super cute and fun!
Mains: This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I believe this is a stand alone/first in series.
Basic plot:
Anna finds out she will lose everything up on her grandfather’s death – unless she gets married. And her guardian, Lord Ramsay is taking his responsibility to her very seriously.
Give this a try if you want:
- historical romance (Georgian?)
- Earl hero
- best friend’s brother
- guardian/ward
- hero has a sweet tooth
- waltz lessons
- light vibes of ugly duckling (some elements of heroine makeover – mostly clothes that flatter her shape more)
- enemy to lover elements
- he gifts flowers to her horse
- lower steam – slow burn with 2 full scenes somewhat close together within the page count
Ages:
- I didn’t catch their ages! I think maybe 20s?
First line:
Lady Anna Reston stood at the bottom of a wide stone staircase, wearing a borrowed dress and a grim expression.
My thoughts:
Oh my goodness – I have found a new fave author. This book was so freaking fun to me – I adored it.
This is my first by her (and her debut into the HR world) and I am already so eager for the next book. Some writers really just shine and Griffith’s writing style was absolutely my jam. She is one that the humor was so good, and genuine, the characters were delightful and memorable – the side characters really bringing life to this book too - and I loved the mains. I found myself swooning over so many lines and wanting to take down so many quotes. I found myself smiling to myself and wanting to kick my feet in glee during this story.
Ramsay has some issues with love and in some ways comes off as the classic emotionally constipated hero – which I am totally guilty of consistently loving. Love is hard for him to admit and we find out the issues in his past that have sculpted him into that man. But it makes his falling that much more delightful to me to watch him floundering with Anna, whom he just cannot seem to do anything right with except kiss her. Jealousy and uncertainty eat him up and I was utterly in love with him.
The all is lost moments within this book just gutted me. I LOVED the tumultuousness of their relationship. The push and pull, the uncertainty mixed with the passion and the hurt. Ugh it was amazing. This whole ride of a book I just loved.
Anna was delightful and I adored getting to know her – I have read a fair amount of horse loving mains in historical romance but not like this – I felt Anna’s love and care for her ‘hobby’ (her life!) and Griffith’s really brought it to light in a way that was engaging and breathtaking. The excitement and wonder really came through to me.
The tension was layered so well between these mains. And I just melted – absolutely melted – when Ramsay starts the gift giving to woo Anna in the most unique way. So, so sweet.
Funny, bright, delightful – I didn’t want to put this book down once I got into it.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating: 5 stars
Favorite book: This one!
Quotes any typos are my own! I am bad with typos, I apologize
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖 (It took me a touch to get into this but once I got to about chapter 9 or so I didn’t want to put it down)
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋🦋 (soooo angsty in some parts! My heart was clenching!)
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes!
Perspective: third person from both the hero and heroine, some minor scenes from the dowager and Charlotte (both side characters)
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: almost immediately (chapter 1)
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, about 6 months later
Format: voluntarily read a physical copy of the book gifted to me by the author
Why I chose this book: I was sent a paperback from the author and the blurb on the back sounded super cute and fun!
Mains: This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I believe this is a stand alone/first in series.
Basic plot:
Anna finds out she will lose everything up on her grandfather’s death – unless she gets married. And her guardian, Lord Ramsay is taking his responsibility to her very seriously.
Give this a try if you want:
- historical romance (Georgian?)
- Earl hero
- best friend’s brother
- guardian/ward
- hero has a sweet tooth
- waltz lessons
- light vibes of ugly duckling (some elements of heroine makeover – mostly clothes that flatter her shape more)
- enemy to lover elements
- he gifts flowers to her horse
- lower steam – slow burn with 2 full scenes somewhat close together within the page count
Ages:
- I didn’t catch their ages! I think maybe 20s?
First line:
Lady Anna Reston stood at the bottom of a wide stone staircase, wearing a borrowed dress and a grim expression.
My thoughts:
Oh my goodness – I have found a new fave author. This book was so freaking fun to me – I adored it.
This is my first by her (and her debut into the HR world) and I am already so eager for the next book. Some writers really just shine and Griffith’s writing style was absolutely my jam. She is one that the humor was so good, and genuine, the characters were delightful and memorable – the side characters really bringing life to this book too - and I loved the mains. I found myself swooning over so many lines and wanting to take down so many quotes. I found myself smiling to myself and wanting to kick my feet in glee during this story.
Ramsay has some issues with love and in some ways comes off as the classic emotionally constipated hero – which I am totally guilty of consistently loving. Love is hard for him to admit and we find out the issues in his past that have sculpted him into that man. But it makes his falling that much more delightful to me to watch him floundering with Anna, whom he just cannot seem to do anything right with except kiss her. Jealousy and uncertainty eat him up and I was utterly in love with him.
The all is lost moments within this book just gutted me. I LOVED the tumultuousness of their relationship. The push and pull, the uncertainty mixed with the passion and the hurt. Ugh it was amazing. This whole ride of a book I just loved.
Anna was delightful and I adored getting to know her – I have read a fair amount of horse loving mains in historical romance but not like this – I felt Anna’s love and care for her ‘hobby’ (her life!) and Griffith’s really brought it to light in a way that was engaging and breathtaking. The excitement and wonder really came through to me.
The tension was layered so well between these mains. And I just melted – absolutely melted – when Ramsay starts the gift giving to woo Anna in the most unique way. So, so sweet.
Funny, bright, delightful – I didn’t want to put this book down once I got into it.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: This is my first
Average rating: 5 stars
Favorite book: This one!
Quotes any typos are my own! I am bad with typos, I apologize
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
February 15, 2025
3.5 stars
I have to admit, I will almost always default to the male lead first when it comes to romance. I look at his qualities, care, and concern for others. The female lead will come after that unless he is a complete jerk.
With that said, the characters in this story fall into my normal sequence. Ramsay was definitely not looking for her but fell first, and showed care, and concern. He really wanted to support her and changed so much throughout the book. Even the nice bit of steam is a big plus.
Anna was developed to only care about horses, her property, and little else. So it is within reason that she can come off as strong-willed, defensive, and somewhat of a mess. She is a tomboy in the Regency era forced to marry to keep her property. She resists everything he does to help her.
I like the strong feisty women featured but they are also a mess. Bullying and rude behavior between them abound. I mean, who forces someone to cut their hair, wear specific clothing, and do things they are not comfortable with all for the sake of attracting others? I thought we were over that.
The Trouble with Anna is a progressive story within the time frame it is written. Ramsay deals with a lot from Anna and their conversation skills between each other stink.
There were many parts in this book that I did not care for, but overall Griffiths delivers a book that is unique. There are some love/hate qualities for Regency romance fans, but the story is entertaining and delivers a sweetheart of a male lead worth the read.
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-trouble-...
I have to admit, I will almost always default to the male lead first when it comes to romance. I look at his qualities, care, and concern for others. The female lead will come after that unless he is a complete jerk.
With that said, the characters in this story fall into my normal sequence. Ramsay was definitely not looking for her but fell first, and showed care, and concern. He really wanted to support her and changed so much throughout the book. Even the nice bit of steam is a big plus.
Anna was developed to only care about horses, her property, and little else. So it is within reason that she can come off as strong-willed, defensive, and somewhat of a mess. She is a tomboy in the Regency era forced to marry to keep her property. She resists everything he does to help her.
I like the strong feisty women featured but they are also a mess. Bullying and rude behavior between them abound. I mean, who forces someone to cut their hair, wear specific clothing, and do things they are not comfortable with all for the sake of attracting others? I thought we were over that.
The Trouble with Anna is a progressive story within the time frame it is written. Ramsay deals with a lot from Anna and their conversation skills between each other stink.
There were many parts in this book that I did not care for, but overall Griffiths delivers a book that is unique. There are some love/hate qualities for Regency romance fans, but the story is entertaining and delivers a sweetheart of a male lead worth the read.
~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-trouble-...
April 19, 2025
—rivals to lovers
—inheritance plot
—she likes horses more than people; he’s afraid of how much he likes HER
Heat Index: 6/10
The Basics:
Horse girl Anna has never particularly liked Julian, earl at large and her close friend’s brother. But oops, her grandfather’s dead and there’s a stipulation in his will—in order to get her full inheritance, Anna must marry Julian … and until then she’s his ward. Julian isn’t particularly enthusiastic about either of these things himself, until he realizes that prickly Anna is actually all he can think about, and hmm, wouldn’t it be a little easier to go along with this marriage thing so he can bang her whenever he wants? Too bad Anna still isn’t on board …
The Review:
What a DELIGHTFUL book. I shall admit, I am a former horse girl myself, and this did awaken a bit of that in me again (there’s DARLEY ARABIAN CONTENT; if you know, you know). But you don’t have to be a horse girl to enjoy this. Horse racing is a focal point of the plot, but the true heart of the book is, of course, Anna’s combative-turned-seductive relationship with Julian.
There’s an instant chemistry between the two, and I find that Griffiths did a great job setting up two people who do know each other enough to have a bit of a history without truly knowing each other. Both Anna and Julian have preconceived notions about each other that sets them up for an initial clash. But dammit, they just can’t avoid that desire.
And there is a progression from physical attraction, that “I must have you” vibe (which is quite new to Anna) to something deeper. Without giving it away, Griffiths does something quite smart with the relationship progression here. It kind of reads as a “What else is there?” stop-start, for The Swan Princess fans, and it subverts expectations in a way I really liked. We really have time to get to know Julian and Anna as they get to know each other better. The characterization of both is excellent, even if I’d say that Anna, spiky (as Julian thinks of her) and secretly vulnerable, is the star of the show. Julian is a great middle ground between snarky seducer and genuinely sweet guy.
I also feel that a huge strength in this book is Griffiths’s writing. Dude, this author can write. The book’s witty, funny, genuinely heartfelt. Some of the lines here made me literally laugh out loud, which is hard to pull off right now. It’s quick without skimping on the depth of the relationship, and it absorbs you easily. In a lot of ways, this book reminded me of Tessa Dare, and I mean that as the highest of compliments.
The Sex:
This is a slow burn … and it isn’t. Again, there are plot elements I won’t give away that affect the way Julian and Anna go about intimacy. There’s a lot of foreplay—Julian catching Anna alone, pulling her bodice down, doing some furtive nipple sucking. There’s al lot of breast play happening in this one! You don’t get the full shebang until later in the book, but when you do, it’s both a sweet and funny, much like the rest of the book. And like any good horse girl romance should, it gives you STABLE ACTION (no horses involved, to be clear). Anne is a truly horny heroine, despite her best efforts, and Julian is dying to rip her clothes off. Good For Them.
The Conclusion:
I find that a lot of recently published historicals I’ve read are fun and lighthearted, which is nice, but they often fail to convince me of the depth of character. The Trouble with Anna avoids that pitfall excellently, and it’s a great addition to the subgenre. Pick it up for a break from the world!
—inheritance plot
—she likes horses more than people; he’s afraid of how much he likes HER
Heat Index: 6/10
The Basics:
Horse girl Anna has never particularly liked Julian, earl at large and her close friend’s brother. But oops, her grandfather’s dead and there’s a stipulation in his will—in order to get her full inheritance, Anna must marry Julian … and until then she’s his ward. Julian isn’t particularly enthusiastic about either of these things himself, until he realizes that prickly Anna is actually all he can think about, and hmm, wouldn’t it be a little easier to go along with this marriage thing so he can bang her whenever he wants? Too bad Anna still isn’t on board …
The Review:
What a DELIGHTFUL book. I shall admit, I am a former horse girl myself, and this did awaken a bit of that in me again (there’s DARLEY ARABIAN CONTENT; if you know, you know). But you don’t have to be a horse girl to enjoy this. Horse racing is a focal point of the plot, but the true heart of the book is, of course, Anna’s combative-turned-seductive relationship with Julian.
There’s an instant chemistry between the two, and I find that Griffiths did a great job setting up two people who do know each other enough to have a bit of a history without truly knowing each other. Both Anna and Julian have preconceived notions about each other that sets them up for an initial clash. But dammit, they just can’t avoid that desire.
And there is a progression from physical attraction, that “I must have you” vibe (which is quite new to Anna) to something deeper. Without giving it away, Griffiths does something quite smart with the relationship progression here. It kind of reads as a “What else is there?” stop-start, for The Swan Princess fans, and it subverts expectations in a way I really liked. We really have time to get to know Julian and Anna as they get to know each other better. The characterization of both is excellent, even if I’d say that Anna, spiky (as Julian thinks of her) and secretly vulnerable, is the star of the show. Julian is a great middle ground between snarky seducer and genuinely sweet guy.
I also feel that a huge strength in this book is Griffiths’s writing. Dude, this author can write. The book’s witty, funny, genuinely heartfelt. Some of the lines here made me literally laugh out loud, which is hard to pull off right now. It’s quick without skimping on the depth of the relationship, and it absorbs you easily. In a lot of ways, this book reminded me of Tessa Dare, and I mean that as the highest of compliments.
The Sex:
This is a slow burn … and it isn’t. Again, there are plot elements I won’t give away that affect the way Julian and Anna go about intimacy. There’s a lot of foreplay—Julian catching Anna alone, pulling her bodice down, doing some furtive nipple sucking. There’s al lot of breast play happening in this one! You don’t get the full shebang until later in the book, but when you do, it’s both a sweet and funny, much like the rest of the book. And like any good horse girl romance should, it gives you STABLE ACTION (no horses involved, to be clear). Anne is a truly horny heroine, despite her best efforts, and Julian is dying to rip her clothes off. Good For Them.
The Conclusion:
I find that a lot of recently published historicals I’ve read are fun and lighthearted, which is nice, but they often fail to convince me of the depth of character. The Trouble with Anna avoids that pitfall excellently, and it’s a great addition to the subgenre. Pick it up for a break from the world!
April 9, 2025
I didn’t like this and I don’t think it was meant for me, but Mimi Matthews and Evie Dunmore endorsed it so I thought it would be. Big marketing mistake imo, but also my own fault because the modern cover was a clue.
Sure it’s got a strong, forward-thinking female lead, but that’s illustrated by her preference for riding horses over attending balls, nothing goes much deeper than that!
Writing is competent, but the story is chock full of cliches and tropes from hundreds of other books. Many people will eat this up but I felt bored.
Sure it’s got a strong, forward-thinking female lead, but that’s illustrated by her preference for riding horses over attending balls, nothing goes much deeper than that!
Writing is competent, but the story is chock full of cliches and tropes from hundreds of other books. Many people will eat this up but I felt bored.
January 12, 2025
I am a huge fan of the Bridgerton series on Netflix and My Lady Jane series on Amazon. In fact, I was extremely saddened by the news that after two months, Amazon canceled the series.
This YA historical romance is described as perfect for fans of Bridgerton and My Lady Jane.
Lady Anna's grandfather, Lord Barton, dies suddenly and in his will the Chatham estate, including the stables, the stud farm, the horses, and the total sum of of ten thousand pounds will be inherited by Lady Anna Isabel Reston on the day of her marriage to Julian Alaric William Aveton, the ninth Earl Ramsay.
Unfortunately, Anna is against marrying Julian, therefore she and Lady Charlotte, Julian's younger sister and Anna's best friend, devise a scheme to make their own money via gambling on horseraces.
I enjoyed the tension and chemistry between Anna and Julian during their bumpy courtship leading up to marriage.
This YA historical romance is described as perfect for fans of Bridgerton and My Lady Jane.
Lady Anna's grandfather, Lord Barton, dies suddenly and in his will the Chatham estate, including the stables, the stud farm, the horses, and the total sum of of ten thousand pounds will be inherited by Lady Anna Isabel Reston on the day of her marriage to Julian Alaric William Aveton, the ninth Earl Ramsay.
Unfortunately, Anna is against marrying Julian, therefore she and Lady Charlotte, Julian's younger sister and Anna's best friend, devise a scheme to make their own money via gambling on horseraces.
I enjoyed the tension and chemistry between Anna and Julian during their bumpy courtship leading up to marriage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2025
"She'd promised to attend the ball, but surely she could attend from a nest of cozy coverlets, perhaps with a good book in hand?" - a relatable queen
This book was a delight. Griffiths writes with a surety and confidence that is unusual in a debut author, and demonstrates a clear love of the genre. Anna lives with her grandfather, heir to his horse racing stables. Julian is the older brother of her best friend, "miles above her" and so intimidating she freezes in his presence. So it is Not Great when her grandfather dies and there is a new will that Romance Laws that Julian and Anna must marry within six months for her to keep the estate.
Griffiths' writing is clever and funny, and plays with the conventions of the genre. Julian smells of "the scent of clean linen and...was that peat?" The POVs are blessedly 3rd person past, and include the sort of wry thoughts and internal commentary we all have, but don't usually see on page. Julian thinks his role as earl is "not just counting gold and banishing peasants" as he contemplates his duties. She's also a remarkably visceral writer, consistantly adding new and interesting twists. For example, we've seen characters with a feeling of dread in ther stomachs hundreds of times, instead here we have "something slithery coiled tight inside him." Fantastic stuff.
Poor Julian, weighted under the pressures and obligations of the earldom, throwing the need to marry Anna onto that pile, and letting his lack of enthusiasm show. He's torn between resenting having his bride chosen for him, and increasing attraction and affection for Anna which leads to a sort of blowing hot and cold all systems flooded panic. "He hadn't asked for any of this, not for a wife and certainly not one who had the power to reach into his chest, wrap her hand around his heart, and squeeze. What the hell was he going to do with her now that he had her? Adore her? called an embarrassingly needy voice inside." Anna simply isn't having it. She refuses to be where she's not valued, and works out a plan to rescue herself instead of waiting for Prince Charming to get himself together.
I felt like the Julian backstory/missing parental figures/emotional beats of the last bit of the book could have used a little more space to breathe, but I was having such a great time reading this book that it didn't bother me too much. In addition to the manipulative (complimentary) grandmother we get POV from the delightfully distractable but loyal sister/bff Charlotte. I assume the next book will be her and the Duke of Warrick who never fails to ask after her, and as far as she is concerned is "so large, you know, and he was so deliciously ruffled and brooding that I got quite distracted." BRING IT.
April 16, 2025
“How dearly women love to hear that we’re irrational. How we adore it when men lecture us about reason while they have none.”
The heroine was quick-witted, though she did have her stupid moments too. The hero started off with emotional whiplash and barking tendencies but eventually settled into something tender and adorably confused. The love story was a bit shallow, missing emotional depth, but still sparkled in places, especially with that ‘struck by lightning’ ring moment. Overall, it’s fun, flirty, occasionally frustrating, but with enough charm to pass the time.
The heroine was quick-witted, though she did have her stupid moments too. The hero started off with emotional whiplash and barking tendencies but eventually settled into something tender and adorably confused. The love story was a bit shallow, missing emotional depth, but still sparkled in places, especially with that ‘struck by lightning’ ring moment. Overall, it’s fun, flirty, occasionally frustrating, but with enough charm to pass the time.
October 6, 2024
I got this book as an ARC and loved it! It’s kinda like a slow burn and it gives bridgerton vibes if you like books at that time era. It’s also enemies to lovers and marriage of convenience. Very sweet love story and if you love horses you’d enjoy this book!
January 19, 2025
I received this ARC a few months ago and it has been sitting in my growing pile of TBRs. I grabbed it to take with me on a beach trip and I AM SO GLAD I DID!
It’s such a fun story with very likable characters. Except Anna. She drove me NUTS. But I came around to her by the end. People talk about book boyfriends - Lord Ramsey is IT. I just loved this one!
It’s such a fun story with very likable characters. Except Anna. She drove me NUTS. But I came around to her by the end. People talk about book boyfriends - Lord Ramsey is IT. I just loved this one!
October 4, 2024
Have a tissue handy the two days you read this delightfully steamy Regency age-gap enemies-to-lovers arranged marriage romantic comedy but be warned it is not safe to read in public as chortles, giggles, and guffaws will ensue. I had an ARC arrive in my mailbox, and this is my voluntary review.
August 20, 2024
What a great ride! I scored this arc randomly from a pile during a romance book crawl at Moon Palace in Minneapolis and am so glad this was the one I got! I’m a newer romance reader who grew up around horses and is trying to find my niche - this really hit the spot! Perfect for horse girls, fans of witty banter, unconventional mfcs (aren’t we all?), and stubborn love.
June 10, 2025
4.5 stars
Many thanks to the author for the complimentary copy!
This was SO MUCH FUN! You’ve got horse girl plus starchy lord plus a meddling will, and all that adds up to forced proximity, banter for days, and hijinks! Also add in a funny best friend and HILARIOUS grandmother, and I devoured this.
Anna and Julian have a million ups and downs in their unusual courtship. Mainly because Julian is a giant idiot and manages to backtrack on any progress he makes. But when he falls, he falls HARD, and we love to see it. We also love to see two entrepreneurial ladies winning bets against the men of the ton in order to gain their financial independence.
The horse race scene was one of my favs. I was on the edge of my seat, and I was so excited to see all the support Anna got. I also loved the chemistry between Anna and Julian, but especially how they came to each other as equals at the end.
This was such a fun romp and I definitely recommend! I’m excited for Charlotte’s book next!
Many thanks to the author for the complimentary copy!
This was SO MUCH FUN! You’ve got horse girl plus starchy lord plus a meddling will, and all that adds up to forced proximity, banter for days, and hijinks! Also add in a funny best friend and HILARIOUS grandmother, and I devoured this.
Anna and Julian have a million ups and downs in their unusual courtship. Mainly because Julian is a giant idiot and manages to backtrack on any progress he makes. But when he falls, he falls HARD, and we love to see it. We also love to see two entrepreneurial ladies winning bets against the men of the ton in order to gain their financial independence.
The horse race scene was one of my favs. I was on the edge of my seat, and I was so excited to see all the support Anna got. I also loved the chemistry between Anna and Julian, but especially how they came to each other as equals at the end.
This was such a fun romp and I definitely recommend! I’m excited for Charlotte’s book next!
February 16, 2025
Wow! What a ride!
The Trouble with Anna felt like such a fresh take on historical romance, and not just for its enticing hot pink cover. Rachel Griffiths’s writing style is contemporary, but does not feel out of place for a Regency romance. I enjoyed her shorter chapters which kept me reading. The plot had just enough events and actions to drive the story forward. There was no unnecessary wordiness or self-important filler. I don’t know how many times I found myself saying “just one more chapter,” and before I knew it, I was finished.
I’m not much of a horse girl myself. I think they’re a bit intimidating, but I loved this horse-obsessed heroine. She made me care about horses and racing. I was surprised to find myself slowing down during the riding scenes to make sure I absorbed all the details. It was clever how Anna’s character was a bit like a horse herself. Strong and fast, while also easily spooked by society and romance. The fact that Julian encouraged her passions, even as his potential Countess, was the icing on the cake.
Another unique point of this novel is the progression of the romance. Fairly early, Julian made me feel assured that they would find their happily ever after. I could just tell that Anna would be safe with him, despite his initial reactions. After anticipating a fluffy story of two people falling in love, my heart was seized and crushed by their struggles in the relationship. My eyes burned with tears during their reconciliations. How many times must this poor man propose? I let out a big sigh of relief when I realized they had overcome their challenges. My emotions could not handle anymore.
I loved that not all romantic and steamy scenes between them were these deeply passionate perfect moments. There was variety. It was so much more relatable and real to see an awkward moment between them. I think laughter or giggles during kisses makes me swoon just as much as a chin grab.
Griffith goes beyond a dual POV and I am here for it. A feisty dowager is always a favorite of mine, and Lady Charlotte is just as fun. I am thrilled that Charlotte will get a book, as well. I will need to sneak a peek at the synopsis to see if her beau is who I am hoping it is. I’m always thirsty for an “enormous” MMC.
If you enjoy a best friend’s brother romance with a take your clothes off and use my body heat for warmth scene, this is your book. I give it 4.5+ stars, but I’ll round it up to a 5 with a hope we will see more of Julian and Anna in book 2 of the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
The Trouble with Anna felt like such a fresh take on historical romance, and not just for its enticing hot pink cover. Rachel Griffiths’s writing style is contemporary, but does not feel out of place for a Regency romance. I enjoyed her shorter chapters which kept me reading. The plot had just enough events and actions to drive the story forward. There was no unnecessary wordiness or self-important filler. I don’t know how many times I found myself saying “just one more chapter,” and before I knew it, I was finished.
I’m not much of a horse girl myself. I think they’re a bit intimidating, but I loved this horse-obsessed heroine. She made me care about horses and racing. I was surprised to find myself slowing down during the riding scenes to make sure I absorbed all the details. It was clever how Anna’s character was a bit like a horse herself. Strong and fast, while also easily spooked by society and romance. The fact that Julian encouraged her passions, even as his potential Countess, was the icing on the cake.
Another unique point of this novel is the progression of the romance. Fairly early, Julian made me feel assured that they would find their happily ever after. I could just tell that Anna would be safe with him, despite his initial reactions. After anticipating a fluffy story of two people falling in love, my heart was seized and crushed by their struggles in the relationship. My eyes burned with tears during their reconciliations. How many times must this poor man propose? I let out a big sigh of relief when I realized they had overcome their challenges. My emotions could not handle anymore.
I loved that not all romantic and steamy scenes between them were these deeply passionate perfect moments. There was variety. It was so much more relatable and real to see an awkward moment between them. I think laughter or giggles during kisses makes me swoon just as much as a chin grab.
Griffith goes beyond a dual POV and I am here for it. A feisty dowager is always a favorite of mine, and Lady Charlotte is just as fun. I am thrilled that Charlotte will get a book, as well. I will need to sneak a peek at the synopsis to see if her beau is who I am hoping it is. I’m always thirsty for an “enormous” MMC.
If you enjoy a best friend’s brother romance with a take your clothes off and use my body heat for warmth scene, this is your book. I give it 4.5+ stars, but I’ll round it up to a 5 with a hope we will see more of Julian and Anna in book 2 of the series.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC. This is my honest review.
May 1, 2025
AHHHHH Where to start!! I thoroughly enjoyed this debut and I can’t wait to read what Rachel Griffiths writes next (please please let it be Charlotte’s story).
The author has a distinct voice and writes superbly. She wrote a feminist historical that was not utterly divorced from its context which I found refreshing. Excellent pacing too.
My only small critique is the last 1/5 meandered a bit and I felt like it needed to be 50-75 pages shorter. No doubt she will only improve with subsequent books so I didn’t reflect that in my rating. 4.5 stars rounded to 5 ⭐️
The author has a distinct voice and writes superbly. She wrote a feminist historical that was not utterly divorced from its context which I found refreshing. Excellent pacing too.
My only small critique is the last 1/5 meandered a bit and I felt like it needed to be 50-75 pages shorter. No doubt she will only improve with subsequent books so I didn’t reflect that in my rating. 4.5 stars rounded to 5 ⭐️
April 24, 2025
Full review to come
Tropes: Lord Next Door, Best Friend’s Brother, Last Dying Wish, Arranged Marriage-ish, Secret Crush, Enemies-to-Lovers-ish
Steam: 2
Tropes: Lord Next Door, Best Friend’s Brother, Last Dying Wish, Arranged Marriage-ish, Secret Crush, Enemies-to-Lovers-ish
Steam: 2
February 20, 2025
When I read Barbara’s review I laughed because it took me two days as well to read this book. There is no way it would have taken longer as it was so much fun that at one point I pulled over while driving to read another chapter!! 😂 It was saucy, sweet and tantalizing page after page. I not only liked the main character but her best friend and grandmother as well. If you want a two day romp through a book this is the one!!!
March 14, 2025
I saw Evie Dunmore endorsing this book on instagram. I'm a huge Evie fan and trusted her with my life so of course I ran to request this on Netgalley, not before reading the description. This had all my favorite elements of a historical romance, The cover was pretty, it sounded modern but not in a gen-z way, but in a progressive, advanced manner, it promised feminism, marriage of convenience and banter. Safe to say, it should've been a 4-5 stars. Alas.... it was not. Too many exclamation marks, amateur dialogue, annoying and meek heroine, a hero who growls all the time and was kind of weak of will, succumbing to anything, I did not enjoy it much. I have read some great historical romance lately, A Lady Awakened by Cecilia Grant, the latest, which was a masterpiece. Coming of of that and the mile high expectations, it did not live up to them. Maybe I should cut some slack because it's a debut book but so was A Lady Awakened. Lesson learned to not trust even your favorite authors.
April 29, 2025
5 ⭐️
Horse girls unite, this is the book for you! But also, if you’re just looking for the best time ever while reading a book, this one’s also for you! After Anna’s grandfather passes away, she’s shocked to learn that he’s left her his stables and horses…but only if she marries Lord Ramsey, her newly appointed guardian. Not only is Julian her best friend's older brother, she also can’t seem to keep her wits about her when he’s around. She’s either hiding away or picking a fight. But she seems to have met her match in Julian, who, for some reason, thinks courting her is a swell idea.
Anna & Julian
Julian has a stick up his a** about Anna right from the start, and I EAT THAT SH*T UP! I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about him, but he was so likable. And the author does a superb job of flipping between POVs quickly enough early in the story that you can’t help but be endeared to him. When you uncover his thing about control (and not wanting to lose his sense), his behavior makes so much sense. Anna, on the flipside, was so instantly and easily likable that I couldn’t put down this book. She was the perfect combination of fierce, clever, and caring, and to watch her self-confidence transformation was beautiful. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention Charlotte, who was truly a stand-out and exactly the type of best-friend character you want. She was so dynamic, and I’m super interested in getting a POV from her in the future 👀
Rachel feels like a fresh new voice in historical romance, one that I feel old school lovers and those new to the genre will be able to enjoy. Her writing is fluid and easy to get into, and she hooks you on a pretty engaging story right from the start. Her characters feel modern while still appropriate to the setting, but they’re pushing against the norms, and I love that. They feel like people you already know, and that type of storytelling and character work is something I truly appreciate. This book blew me out of the water in a way I wasn’t expecting, and I’m pretty sure this will be one I rec to new friends wanting to try out the genre! An excellent new gateway to historical romance!
Horse girls unite, this is the book for you! But also, if you’re just looking for the best time ever while reading a book, this one’s also for you! After Anna’s grandfather passes away, she’s shocked to learn that he’s left her his stables and horses…but only if she marries Lord Ramsey, her newly appointed guardian. Not only is Julian her best friend's older brother, she also can’t seem to keep her wits about her when he’s around. She’s either hiding away or picking a fight. But she seems to have met her match in Julian, who, for some reason, thinks courting her is a swell idea.
Anna & Julian
Julian has a stick up his a** about Anna right from the start, and I EAT THAT SH*T UP! I wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about him, but he was so likable. And the author does a superb job of flipping between POVs quickly enough early in the story that you can’t help but be endeared to him. When you uncover his thing about control (and not wanting to lose his sense), his behavior makes so much sense. Anna, on the flipside, was so instantly and easily likable that I couldn’t put down this book. She was the perfect combination of fierce, clever, and caring, and to watch her self-confidence transformation was beautiful. I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention Charlotte, who was truly a stand-out and exactly the type of best-friend character you want. She was so dynamic, and I’m super interested in getting a POV from her in the future 👀
Rachel feels like a fresh new voice in historical romance, one that I feel old school lovers and those new to the genre will be able to enjoy. Her writing is fluid and easy to get into, and she hooks you on a pretty engaging story right from the start. Her characters feel modern while still appropriate to the setting, but they’re pushing against the norms, and I love that. They feel like people you already know, and that type of storytelling and character work is something I truly appreciate. This book blew me out of the water in a way I wasn’t expecting, and I’m pretty sure this will be one I rec to new friends wanting to try out the genre! An excellent new gateway to historical romance!
May 16, 2025
4.5/5
Are you in the mood for a romp of a romance novel? Prefer something with a little angst? Well I’ve got a rec that meets both!
The Trouble With Anna by Rachel Griffiths is a delightfully fun and modern Historical Romance with just enough tension to keep you on the edge of your seat.
An unexpected arranged marriage brings Anna and Julian (older brother of Anna’s best friend) together by force. What follows is a grumpy-meets-prickly, hilarious, sweet, and sexy tale of two people who have no idea just how much they have in common or how hard they’re going to fall in love. Both characters bring excellent personality and emotions, making for some top tier dialogue.
The Trouble With Anna has stolen kisses, dance lessons, hurt feelings, extravagant gifts, wild horse races, apologies, subterfuge, villains, and top tier secondary characters (and you get their POVs).
Anna is certainly trouble, the best kind. I love her.
I read the paperback version but have recently heard the audio is outstanding, so will definitely be rereading.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. Thank you Rachel.
Are you in the mood for a romp of a romance novel? Prefer something with a little angst? Well I’ve got a rec that meets both!
The Trouble With Anna by Rachel Griffiths is a delightfully fun and modern Historical Romance with just enough tension to keep you on the edge of your seat.
An unexpected arranged marriage brings Anna and Julian (older brother of Anna’s best friend) together by force. What follows is a grumpy-meets-prickly, hilarious, sweet, and sexy tale of two people who have no idea just how much they have in common or how hard they’re going to fall in love. Both characters bring excellent personality and emotions, making for some top tier dialogue.
The Trouble With Anna has stolen kisses, dance lessons, hurt feelings, extravagant gifts, wild horse races, apologies, subterfuge, villains, and top tier secondary characters (and you get their POVs).
Anna is certainly trouble, the best kind. I love her.
I read the paperback version but have recently heard the audio is outstanding, so will definitely be rereading.
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review. Thank you Rachel.
April 1, 2025
Lady Anna Reston is put in an untenable situation when her grandfather dies. According to his will, the racing stables and horses she has spent her life building will go to her spendthrift cousin after six months if she does not meet one condition in her grandfather's will: she must marry her best friend's brother, Julian Aveton, Earl of Ramsay. Anna is appalled by the condition of her inheritance, especially because she can never bring herself to speak in Julian's presence from nerves and initially Julian is just as irate. But these two begin to warm to each other, that is until Julian says something stupid about Anna and burns down any goodwill he'd built with her. Now she is trying to become financially independent to build her own stables while Julian figures out how to regain her trust.
The Trouble with Anna is a lovely debut historical by someone who loves the genre. There were a lot of things I enjoyed about the book but it was also clearly a debut and has some rough edges.
Rachel Griffiths's writing style is engaging and makes for an easy read. The book is also written in multi-POV, third person, past tense which gives it a classic historical romance feel. And the premise of the novel– an inheritance with bizarre conditions– is right out of the historical romance playbook.
I enjoyed our main characters a lot, especially Anna. She is a wallflower after years of living in the shadow of her mother's scandalous death and her grandfather's overbearing personality. But she has found a true vocation in her work with horses. She clearly loves what she does and is immensely talented at it. Julian was the kind of taciturn romance hero I will always go feral for in a historical. I loved his idiocy, even when his behavior was infuriating.
When a heroine has a niche interest in a historical romance, I want to know as much about it as possible. I know that puts me in the minority– most people just was the basics– but I love when the detail is there. Rachel Griffiths was clearly a Horse Girl and wrote the Ultimate Horse Girl and I loved everything about that.
OK, on to the things that were rough and told me this was a debut.
If you're going to write an inheritance story in a historical romance, I need a couple pieces of information up front. First off, I need to know the year in which the book takes place so I know where we are relative to the different iterations of the Married Women's Property Act. We eventually find out this book is set in the Regency, between 1816 and 1820, because the characters refer to the Prince Regent and say the Battle of Waterloo was in the past. The Prince Regent was only in place from 1811-1820 and Waterloo was in 1815 so that narrows down our timeframe. I found it to be odd that Anna couldn't inherit the stables unless she married Julian because prior to the Married Women's Property Act (1870) a married woman couldn't even own property. So her grandfather was giving his stables to Julian, not Anna, with his will. Second, I need to know how old the heroine is. We know Anna is probably around 21-years-old because her best friend Charlotte has been out for four seasons but we're never explicitly told how old she is. It was weird that we didn't get that information up front since Julian was also named Anna's guardian in her grandfather's will and guardianship usually comes with an expiration date.
The plot pacing in this book was a little frantic. It was like Rachel Griffiths was trying to pack everything she's ever loved in a historical romance into one novel. That can water down some of the elements and make them less impactful. I wish we'd spent a little more time getting to know Anna's grandfather before he died. I also wish we had more time with Julian's backstory so we could better understand his behavior towards Anna. More time spent with both of those points would have made the act three low moment a bigger deal. As it was, we had a random baddie come in with no context and while I've read enough historical romance in my life to understand what was going on, I don't know that a newer reader would have felt the impact.
Overall, I really enjoyed the writing in The Trouble with Anna, even with the issues and I look forward to what Rachel Griffiths does next. She clearly loves this genre and I hope her second book is even better.
The Trouble with Anna is a lovely debut historical by someone who loves the genre. There were a lot of things I enjoyed about the book but it was also clearly a debut and has some rough edges.
Rachel Griffiths's writing style is engaging and makes for an easy read. The book is also written in multi-POV, third person, past tense which gives it a classic historical romance feel. And the premise of the novel– an inheritance with bizarre conditions– is right out of the historical romance playbook.
I enjoyed our main characters a lot, especially Anna. She is a wallflower after years of living in the shadow of her mother's scandalous death and her grandfather's overbearing personality. But she has found a true vocation in her work with horses. She clearly loves what she does and is immensely talented at it. Julian was the kind of taciturn romance hero I will always go feral for in a historical. I loved his idiocy, even when his behavior was infuriating.
When a heroine has a niche interest in a historical romance, I want to know as much about it as possible. I know that puts me in the minority– most people just was the basics– but I love when the detail is there. Rachel Griffiths was clearly a Horse Girl and wrote the Ultimate Horse Girl and I loved everything about that.
OK, on to the things that were rough and told me this was a debut.
If you're going to write an inheritance story in a historical romance, I need a couple pieces of information up front. First off, I need to know the year in which the book takes place so I know where we are relative to the different iterations of the Married Women's Property Act. We eventually find out this book is set in the Regency, between 1816 and 1820, because the characters refer to the Prince Regent and say the Battle of Waterloo was in the past. The Prince Regent was only in place from 1811-1820 and Waterloo was in 1815 so that narrows down our timeframe. I found it to be odd that Anna couldn't inherit the stables unless she married Julian because prior to the Married Women's Property Act (1870) a married woman couldn't even own property. So her grandfather was giving his stables to Julian, not Anna, with his will. Second, I need to know how old the heroine is. We know Anna is probably around 21-years-old because her best friend Charlotte has been out for four seasons but we're never explicitly told how old she is. It was weird that we didn't get that information up front since Julian was also named Anna's guardian in her grandfather's will and guardianship usually comes with an expiration date.
The plot pacing in this book was a little frantic. It was like Rachel Griffiths was trying to pack everything she's ever loved in a historical romance into one novel. That can water down some of the elements and make them less impactful. I wish we'd spent a little more time getting to know Anna's grandfather before he died. I also wish we had more time with Julian's backstory so we could better understand his behavior towards Anna. More time spent with both of those points would have made the act three low moment a bigger deal. As it was, we had a random baddie come in with no context and while I've read enough historical romance in my life to understand what was going on, I don't know that a newer reader would have felt the impact.
Overall, I really enjoyed the writing in The Trouble with Anna, even with the issues and I look forward to what Rachel Griffiths does next. She clearly loves this genre and I hope her second book is even better.
May 14, 2025
I received this copy of The Trouble with Anna from author, Rachel Griffiths a few weeks ago and I was immediately intrigued when I said that back cover blurb!
Best friend’s brother, Ward/guardian, will stipulated marriage… and plenty of “it’s just kisses” - SAY LESS!!!
This one start off with lady Anna, waiting for her grandfather‘s will to be read and being surprised when her best friend brother, Julian- Earl Ramsey shows up for the reading. What is he doing here? Well, her grandfather had something up his sleeve, and he stipulated then unless she marries him within six months, she leaves the horse farm and her dowry!
Both Julian and Anna have no interest in being manipulated into a marriage – but Julian eventually has a gentlemanly up, force him into attempting to propose and court Anna. to solve this dilemma. All the while, Anna has her own plans of her sleeve to create the life she wants without becoming someone’s burden.
Too bad both of these characters can’t keep their hands or lips off of each other!
I had so much fun with this romance. I know I’ve heard talk where the cover was a little confusing and people weren’t sure what they were getting well let me tell you it’s a historical romance with plenty of romcom added into the mix. It’s a fresh and fun take on the genre and I can’t wait to see what else Rachel Griffiths comes up with next!
Best friend’s brother, Ward/guardian, will stipulated marriage… and plenty of “it’s just kisses” - SAY LESS!!!
This one start off with lady Anna, waiting for her grandfather‘s will to be read and being surprised when her best friend brother, Julian- Earl Ramsey shows up for the reading. What is he doing here? Well, her grandfather had something up his sleeve, and he stipulated then unless she marries him within six months, she leaves the horse farm and her dowry!
Both Julian and Anna have no interest in being manipulated into a marriage – but Julian eventually has a gentlemanly up, force him into attempting to propose and court Anna. to solve this dilemma. All the while, Anna has her own plans of her sleeve to create the life she wants without becoming someone’s burden.
Too bad both of these characters can’t keep their hands or lips off of each other!
I had so much fun with this romance. I know I’ve heard talk where the cover was a little confusing and people weren’t sure what they were getting well let me tell you it’s a historical romance with plenty of romcom added into the mix. It’s a fresh and fun take on the genre and I can’t wait to see what else Rachel Griffiths comes up with next!
April 29, 2025
When Lady Anna hears the stipulation in her grandfather's will, she's stunned: she'll inherit the estate (and more importantly the stables and horses) in 6 months, but only if she marries Lord Julian Ramsay. Anna isn't just a wallflower, she's not beautiful like her late mother, she's awkward, and she prefers being on horseback to a ballroom. But what if Julian is the right man for her?
I really enjoyed this debut from Rachel Griffiths! Anna has a lot of spirit, and she decides to take things into her own hands. Even as she starts to fall for Julian, she has a backup plan: gambling with her best friend, Julian's half-sister Charlotte, to build a nest egg of their own. Because Anna isn't vivacious and beautiful like her mother, she assumes she's undesirable, and cannot believe a lord like Julian would fall for her, especially since it seems as though he's only begrudgingly agreed to marry her.
I don't always love a romance novel that blows hot and cold, but there's a line that I loved that turns it from frustrating to steaming hot: [FIND LINE]
Thank you to Rachel Griffiths for a finished copy of this book!
I really enjoyed this debut from Rachel Griffiths! Anna has a lot of spirit, and she decides to take things into her own hands. Even as she starts to fall for Julian, she has a backup plan: gambling with her best friend, Julian's half-sister Charlotte, to build a nest egg of their own. Because Anna isn't vivacious and beautiful like her mother, she assumes she's undesirable, and cannot believe a lord like Julian would fall for her, especially since it seems as though he's only begrudgingly agreed to marry her.
I don't always love a romance novel that blows hot and cold, but there's a line that I loved that turns it from frustrating to steaming hot: [FIND LINE]
Thank you to Rachel Griffiths for a finished copy of this book!
February 12, 2025
This book was so fun! A historical romance romp with a rebellious FMC and a exasperated MMC that reads more like a TV show than your usual romance book.
Lady Anna Reston's grandfather has died, and has left her his estate (complete with race horse breeding stables)... on the condition that she marries. Enter the Earl, the older brother of Lady Anna's best friend and the new guardian of her estate until she marries. He wants to do right by his new "ward". Anna wants her independence and to do right by her grandfather's estate. The two goals clash, leaving us with a he-falls-first historical romance with lots of ups and downs.
This reminded me of Bridgerton- the characters are more modern than historically accurate, the clothes pretty but not period appropriate, and the banter is top-notch. Putting aside anything I knew about this time period, I had so much fun reading this book. Anna was great, but my favorite character would be either the Dowager or Charlotte, Anna's best friend. I strongly suspect that we are going to get Charlotte's book next... and I can't wait!
Recommend for anyone who enjoyed Bridgerton and is looking to capture some of that energy before the next season!
Lady Anna Reston's grandfather has died, and has left her his estate (complete with race horse breeding stables)... on the condition that she marries. Enter the Earl, the older brother of Lady Anna's best friend and the new guardian of her estate until she marries. He wants to do right by his new "ward". Anna wants her independence and to do right by her grandfather's estate. The two goals clash, leaving us with a he-falls-first historical romance with lots of ups and downs.
This reminded me of Bridgerton- the characters are more modern than historically accurate, the clothes pretty but not period appropriate, and the banter is top-notch. Putting aside anything I knew about this time period, I had so much fun reading this book. Anna was great, but my favorite character would be either the Dowager or Charlotte, Anna's best friend. I strongly suspect that we are going to get Charlotte's book next... and I can't wait!
Recommend for anyone who enjoyed Bridgerton and is looking to capture some of that energy before the next season!
March 4, 2025
The Trouble with Anna is everything I want in a historical romance. Witty characters. Excellent female friendships. A hero who's down bad. An independent heroine with a spine. French letters(!). A wonderfully melodramatic climax. And, finally, an epilogue that I adored (and I don't usually care about an epilogue one way or another)! Truly, what more could you want?
Where this book really shines is in the dialogue. The characters throw so many barbs at each other, and get along famously. Charlotte constantly had me giggling, and the Dowager was exactly the grandmotherly character I like to read. Anna and Julian had their ups and downs, but dealt with things in extremely human ways, making them feel grounded.
I enjoyed the writing so much, and I hope we may one day get a book about Charlotte.
Thank you to Gallery Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
Where this book really shines is in the dialogue. The characters throw so many barbs at each other, and get along famously. Charlotte constantly had me giggling, and the Dowager was exactly the grandmotherly character I like to read. Anna and Julian had their ups and downs, but dealt with things in extremely human ways, making them feel grounded.
I enjoyed the writing so much, and I hope we may one day get a book about Charlotte.
Thank you to Gallery Books and Netgalley for the ARC.
May 18, 2025
This was a fast entertaining read. The characters of Anna and Charlotte were interesting and the race scene was very good.
June 13, 2025
I listened to the audio and absolutely adored this witty, sensual historical romance!
Some of the reasons I 10 out of 10 recommend:
1. Vibrant characters with personalities that leap off the page.
2. A realistic depiction of the heroine’s neurodivergence.
3. Starchy hero falls first.
4. Hilarious banter that had me unhinged laughing at the stoplight.
5. An HEA that made me swoon and kick my feet.
Some of the reasons I 10 out of 10 recommend:
1. Vibrant characters with personalities that leap off the page.
2. A realistic depiction of the heroine’s neurodivergence.
3. Starchy hero falls first.
4. Hilarious banter that had me unhinged laughing at the stoplight.
5. An HEA that made me swoon and kick my feet.
April 6, 2025
Wow! I stayed up super late to finish The Trouble with Anna. Read it in one day because I couldn’t wait to see how things would work out for Anna. This is a fast-paced, witty historical romance with rich character development and a plot that draws the reader in quickly. The banter between the characters is really funny, and the emotional angst and chemistry between Anna and Julian are intense! I absolutely loved the many feminist elements to the story. Anna is fighting for her independence in a man’s world, and we are rooting her along every step of the way. Another 5 star 2025 for me! Check out this amazing debut novel by Rachel Griffiths.
The author gave me a free copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
The author gave me a free copy of this novel. All opinions are my own.
April 12, 2025
4.75
D A Z Z L I N G debut! Rollicking fun with the most mad MCs I’ve read in a while. I so hope the author decides to write about Charlotte!
D A Z Z L I N G debut! Rollicking fun with the most mad MCs I’ve read in a while. I so hope the author decides to write about Charlotte!
January 22, 2025
Total smut. The author must be a total pervert
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