What do you think?
Rate this book
Second Sons #1
Beautiful Things
Crashing a country house party in Regency England, an intrepid young woman is drawn into the orbit of three delicious gentlemen in this "Why Choose," slow burn, very sexy, definitely-not-your-mother’s historical romance from internationally bestselling author Emily Rath.
At twenty-two, Rosalie Harrow is unmarried and near destitute. She has two snag a wealthy gentleman, or take work as a governess. Neither option appeals to headstrong Rosalie, who sees both futures as a kind of cage.
When Rosalie receives an invitation to Alcott Hall, she believes she’s there to meet the Dowager Duchess of Norland, the mysterious childhood friend of her late mother. Instead, Rosalie is thrust in the middle of a house party of eligible high society ladies all desperate to win the hand of the new, conveniently single duke. Hilarity ensues as Rosalie dodges the attentions of the officious duke, and weathers the censure of the other guests, all while trying to unravel the mystery of her invitation.
And then there’s the gentlemen…
The more Rosalie tries to avoid the high society husband hunt, the more she finds herself charmed by three very different men. There’s Lord James, the duke’s younger brother, who is the secret duke in all but name. Lieutenant Renley, recently returned from the West Indies, and begrudgingly looking for a wife of his own. And the tempestuous Mr. Burke, who irks Rosalie to no end.
The clock ticks down the days to the Michaelmas ball, when the duke is set to announce his bride. Marriage is a trap and Rosalie will not be easily snared…but that doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy the chase while it lasts.
At twenty-two, Rosalie Harrow is unmarried and near destitute. She has two snag a wealthy gentleman, or take work as a governess. Neither option appeals to headstrong Rosalie, who sees both futures as a kind of cage.
When Rosalie receives an invitation to Alcott Hall, she believes she’s there to meet the Dowager Duchess of Norland, the mysterious childhood friend of her late mother. Instead, Rosalie is thrust in the middle of a house party of eligible high society ladies all desperate to win the hand of the new, conveniently single duke. Hilarity ensues as Rosalie dodges the attentions of the officious duke, and weathers the censure of the other guests, all while trying to unravel the mystery of her invitation.
And then there’s the gentlemen…
The more Rosalie tries to avoid the high society husband hunt, the more she finds herself charmed by three very different men. There’s Lord James, the duke’s younger brother, who is the secret duke in all but name. Lieutenant Renley, recently returned from the West Indies, and begrudgingly looking for a wife of his own. And the tempestuous Mr. Burke, who irks Rosalie to no end.
The clock ticks down the days to the Michaelmas ball, when the duke is set to announce his bride. Marriage is a trap and Rosalie will not be easily snared…but that doesn’t mean she can’t enjoy the chase while it lasts.
481 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 14, 2022
2859 people are currently reading
37651 people want to read
About the author
Emily Rath
22 books11.1k followersEmily Rath is a USA Today and international bestselling author whose chart-topping, sex-positive, queer-inclusive fantasy and romance novels include the Second Sons Regency romances, the Tuonela Duet fantasy novels, and the ‘why choose’ Jacksonville Rays Hockey Romances. A former university professor, she holds PhDs in Political Science and Peace Studies. Emily lives with her husband, son, and cats in the Pacific Northwest. She can be found online at EmilyRathBooks.com, on Instagram @emilyrathauthor and on TikTok @emilyrathbooks.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,373 reviews
May 12, 2023
Emily Rath is a deeply unserious person and I love mess
August 2, 2025
Historical romance is fucking boring, the men didn’t kiss and she’s so “plain” and “petite” and “has no title” but all the men want to suck her tits because she’s sooooooo different because she punched a man and doesn’t want to get married….
🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
When the fuck do the men kiss?
IDC ABOUT HISTORICAL DRAMA, LADIES MARRYING FOR MONEY OR COURT POLITICS, SHOW ME YOUR WIENER/S, I WANNA UNDERSTAND HOW MMMF or MMF/M WORKS.
🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄🙄
When the fuck do the men kiss?
IDC ABOUT HISTORICAL DRAMA, LADIES MARRYING FOR MONEY OR COURT POLITICS, SHOW ME YOUR WIENER/S, I WANNA UNDERSTAND HOW MMMF or MMF/M WORKS.
March 25, 2022
Entertaining if a bit outlandish. Pairs best with wine.
Synopsis:
Rosalie Harrow has been dealt a crummy hand. Her mother has recently died of a brutal illness, her belligerent drunkard father is also long dead, her only inheritance his extensive debts. She has no family or friend in the world beyond her poor widowed aunt. The only boon she may claim is her feisty, unpretentious personality and being staggeringly good looking.
She is thus quite taken aback when she receives a summons at the behest of the dowager duchess Norland to Alcott Hall. Who is this duchess and how is she connected to her? And are her motives altruistic or self motivated?
The Duchess:
When Rosalie arrives at Alcott Hall it is to a thinly veiled matchmaking party in full swing where she, with no connections or dowry, sticks out like a sore thumb amongst all the polished society ladies who take none too kindly to pretty girls treading on their turf.
Rosalie:
The prize? The reprobate Duke George Corbin who is a devout hedonist. His mother warns Rosalie that a lady in reduced circumstances such as herself is not in the running, which is all fine and dandy with her. She would not be a player on the marriage mart even if she had enough to offer for the buy in.
After her parents less than fairytale marriage Rosalie wastraumatized impressed upon what marriages typically devolve to, so she has zero interest in the institution. She would rather make her way in the world untethered to any man who may drag her down. But her resolve will be tested by three gentlemen, all of whom she feels a strong attraction to.
Let’s meet our bachelors, shall we?
Mr Burke: The son of the previous steward, raised alongside James. He has a devil may care charm but is ultimately for the most part an upstanding gentleman .
Lord James Corbin: The younger brother of the Duke, a viscount in his own right. He has the ‘brooding due to being weighed down by responsibility so I haven’t time to regulate my manners’ vibe. He's often needlessly an over-reactive ass.
Lieutenant Tom Renley: The handsomest and most personable of the lot. He needs a wife with a dowry to pay for his ascension to Captain-hood. He's been crossed in love before…
And damn, for a girl saying she has no interest in relationships Rosalie sure is putting herself forward. She flirts a la Brittney: it's just a game she gets lost in, it doesn't mean she was serious!
Rosalie to the boys:
What Fanned my Fondness:
♡The writing fleshes out the scenes from scent, sound, feel, etc. The writing inhabits the atmosphere.
♡Rosalie is a solid protagonist, she is well established who she is from first scene. Though I wonder at her being so casual at being equally attracted to three men, who are all BFFs at once- like is this a common occurrence for her?
Rosalie:
♡The dialogue is witty & quippy, I was really impressed by it. the absolute strongest attribute this work offers.
♡Multiple POV's
What Fizzled my Sizzle:
✗Occasional Anachronisms & stagnant repetition of phrases.The language, sensibilities of the characters and forthrightness has a modern tint, not consistently but at times. I.e. phrases like ‘Listen, ’ in its context modern, and every male characters favorite expletive was 'Jesus Christ,' it got tedious in repetition.
Which was a shame as there is such a variety of colorful expletives in England at this time that would have been fun to use.
Also it could have dialed back like 50% on the F bombs in front of ladies. One time there was a swan attack and the language a gentlemen responded to it with in company of a lady was not proportional to the circumstances, unless his father was murdered by a swan and he has like severe unresolved swan trauma- which to be fair, who amongst us doesn't have unresolved bird trauma, mine is with Canadian geese.
I have rarely read such language in HRs its jarring and puts me to the modern liberties with swears in all situations. It's not my sensibilities that are offended but rather its about using language in a manner that highlights the restrictive mores of the regency period and the due deference gentlemen were brought up to display in front of ladies. When the boys are alone sure, they may swear away like sailors and it fits.
✗Lacks verisimilitude, but the good, entertaining kind.
✗Rosalie's modern attitude anachronistic to the wazoo
✗Insta love/ lust. Not sold on there being sufficient romantic tension and development before the damns of adoration broke. In reverse harems I usually have a favorite, but I found it hard to really feel invested in one guy or another, akin to being at the race track with no hunch as to which horse to bet on. I think it is due to lack of gradual emotional development of substance. The guys right of the bat like her with little reason, so it's taken to a ten early and it's lust fueled.
✗Not a particularly compelling conflict.
The Brass Tacks:
I seesawed on this one. There was some really fun, clever dialogue and poignant prose, but then some word or behavior would be really off for the time; up and down. On fleek and off tilt, this book is bipolar; it goes from having these deliciously arranged eloquent phrases and then in the next breath a man is thinking about his 'member.'
Its 50% what I love and 50% of what I hate in HR’s. I have mixed feelings for this book. It doesn't beat around the bush unless beating around the bush is intended as sexual innuendo.
A lot of it rang real true to the language and customs, but there were these glaring instances where the behavior or decorum was too modern and forward and I want to put that out there for the more stringent traditionalists regency readers. This falls in the category of a historical romance that is for a more mature, humor minded audience, like fans of 'Bridgerton.' That being said, I am subscribed to the notion in writing that whatever you do is fine as long as its entertaining, and the book stuck to that so I personally had no problems with it.
This is the first in a series and the debut of the author, which is admirable. I don't think the characters and their prevalent baser inclined motives are my cuppa, and that is why I didn't love the story, but I did enjoy it more than I tend to with these types of HR's. I've read other HR's from more established authors that were not half so charming or clever with their dialogue and that is what left me really impressed by this author.
So if you don't mind a more anachronistic sexy regency romance, then you'll love this.
Available on Kindle Unlimited today!
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Heady Habanero 🌶 🌶🌶🌶/5 ꙳
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Synopsis:
Rosalie Harrow has been dealt a crummy hand. Her mother has recently died of a brutal illness, her belligerent drunkard father is also long dead, her only inheritance his extensive debts. She has no family or friend in the world beyond her poor widowed aunt. The only boon she may claim is her feisty, unpretentious personality and being staggeringly good looking.
She is thus quite taken aback when she receives a summons at the behest of the dowager duchess Norland to Alcott Hall. Who is this duchess and how is she connected to her? And are her motives altruistic or self motivated?
The Duchess:
When Rosalie arrives at Alcott Hall it is to a thinly veiled matchmaking party in full swing where she, with no connections or dowry, sticks out like a sore thumb amongst all the polished society ladies who take none too kindly to pretty girls treading on their turf.
Rosalie:
The prize? The reprobate Duke George Corbin who is a devout hedonist. His mother warns Rosalie that a lady in reduced circumstances such as herself is not in the running, which is all fine and dandy with her. She would not be a player on the marriage mart even if she had enough to offer for the buy in.
After her parents less than fairytale marriage Rosalie was
Let’s meet our bachelors, shall we?
Mr Burke: The son of the previous steward, raised alongside James. He has a devil may care charm but is ultimately for the most part an upstanding gentleman .
Lord James Corbin: The younger brother of the Duke, a viscount in his own right. He has the ‘brooding due to being weighed down by responsibility so I haven’t time to regulate my manners’ vibe. He's often needlessly an over-reactive ass.
Lieutenant Tom Renley: The handsomest and most personable of the lot. He needs a wife with a dowry to pay for his ascension to Captain-hood. He's been crossed in love before…
And damn, for a girl saying she has no interest in relationships Rosalie sure is putting herself forward. She flirts a la Brittney: it's just a game she gets lost in, it doesn't mean she was serious!
Rosalie to the boys:
What Fanned my Fondness:
♡The writing fleshes out the scenes from scent, sound, feel, etc. The writing inhabits the atmosphere.
♡Rosalie is a solid protagonist, she is well established who she is from first scene. Though I wonder at her being so casual at being equally attracted to three men, who are all BFFs at once- like is this a common occurrence for her?
Rosalie:
♡The dialogue is witty & quippy, I was really impressed by it. the absolute strongest attribute this work offers.
♡Multiple POV's
What Fizzled my Sizzle:
✗Occasional Anachronisms & stagnant repetition of phrases.The language, sensibilities of the characters and forthrightness has a modern tint, not consistently but at times. I.e. phrases like ‘Listen, ’ in its context modern, and every male characters favorite expletive was 'Jesus Christ,' it got tedious in repetition.
Which was a shame as there is such a variety of colorful expletives in England at this time that would have been fun to use.
Also it could have dialed back like 50% on the F bombs in front of ladies. One time there was a swan attack and the language a gentlemen responded to it with in company of a lady was not proportional to the circumstances, unless his father was murdered by a swan and he has like severe unresolved swan trauma- which to be fair, who amongst us doesn't have unresolved bird trauma, mine is with Canadian geese.
I have rarely read such language in HRs its jarring and puts me to the modern liberties with swears in all situations. It's not my sensibilities that are offended but rather its about using language in a manner that highlights the restrictive mores of the regency period and the due deference gentlemen were brought up to display in front of ladies. When the boys are alone sure, they may swear away like sailors and it fits.
✗Lacks verisimilitude, but the good, entertaining kind.
✗Rosalie's modern attitude anachronistic to the wazoo
✗Insta love/ lust. Not sold on there being sufficient romantic tension and development before the damns of adoration broke. In reverse harems I usually have a favorite, but I found it hard to really feel invested in one guy or another, akin to being at the race track with no hunch as to which horse to bet on. I think it is due to lack of gradual emotional development of substance. The guys right of the bat like her with little reason, so it's taken to a ten early and it's lust fueled.
✗Not a particularly compelling conflict.
The Brass Tacks:
I seesawed on this one. There was some really fun, clever dialogue and poignant prose, but then some word or behavior would be really off for the time; up and down. On fleek and off tilt, this book is bipolar; it goes from having these deliciously arranged eloquent phrases and then in the next breath a man is thinking about his 'member.'
Its 50% what I love and 50% of what I hate in HR’s. I have mixed feelings for this book. It doesn't beat around the bush unless beating around the bush is intended as sexual innuendo.
A lot of it rang real true to the language and customs, but there were these glaring instances where the behavior or decorum was too modern and forward and I want to put that out there for the more stringent traditionalists regency readers. This falls in the category of a historical romance that is for a more mature, humor minded audience, like fans of 'Bridgerton.' That being said, I am subscribed to the notion in writing that whatever you do is fine as long as its entertaining, and the book stuck to that so I personally had no problems with it.
This is the first in a series and the debut of the author, which is admirable. I don't think the characters and their prevalent baser inclined motives are my cuppa, and that is why I didn't love the story, but I did enjoy it more than I tend to with these types of HR's. I've read other HR's from more established authors that were not half so charming or clever with their dialogue and that is what left me really impressed by this author.
So if you don't mind a more anachronistic sexy regency romance, then you'll love this.
Available on Kindle Unlimited today!
꙳ Spice Scale rating: Heady Habanero 🌶 🌶🌶🌶/5 ꙳
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 1, 2025
1⭐️ (DNF @ 51%)
Guys, this was so bad. SOOOO BAD. I won't have too much to say since I only made it to halfway before my body and mind said no more, but I think I have plenty to go on a small rant review on all the issues this book had so here we go.
First off, the characters! They weren't the worst characters in the world, but they were as bland and boring as boiled chicken. No amount of money could make me genuinely have interest in these characters. I was really looking forward to the poly aspect of all the love interests, and to see that they weren't written with an ounce of seasoning really disappointed me. No depth, no interesting backstories or personalities, BORING.
Now, onto the plot itself. Yet again, there was absolutely nothing to the plot. It didn't even sound interesting, but I wanted to read this because I liked one of Emily Rath's other books. Shame on me honestly. I really didn't feel that tension of angst that the author promised was in here and it just felt like a bunch of horny teenagers falling for a girl they knew nothing about, simply that she looked pretty. I was halfway through and, don't get me wrong I love a slow-burn, but the stakes in this were so low even if it tried to seem otherwise. It touched on forbidden love, but the forbidden aspect is just like a slap on the wrist.
Overall, I don't think I'l be reading anything more from the author not just because of her controversy, but she simply just hasn't captured my attention enough to want to know more. Yes, I liked a single on of her books, but nothing she has written has made me want to read more besides that. Even reading the blurb of this book I was like ummmmm....but I love a why-choose. This, unfortunately wasn't done well.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭: 👑🕊️
A why-choose regency romance? Oh I am sat 🧎🏼♀️
Guys, this was so bad. SOOOO BAD. I won't have too much to say since I only made it to halfway before my body and mind said no more, but I think I have plenty to go on a small rant review on all the issues this book had so here we go.
First off, the characters! They weren't the worst characters in the world, but they were as bland and boring as boiled chicken. No amount of money could make me genuinely have interest in these characters. I was really looking forward to the poly aspect of all the love interests, and to see that they weren't written with an ounce of seasoning really disappointed me. No depth, no interesting backstories or personalities, BORING.
Now, onto the plot itself. Yet again, there was absolutely nothing to the plot. It didn't even sound interesting, but I wanted to read this because I liked one of Emily Rath's other books. Shame on me honestly. I really didn't feel that tension of angst that the author promised was in here and it just felt like a bunch of horny teenagers falling for a girl they knew nothing about, simply that she looked pretty. I was halfway through and, don't get me wrong I love a slow-burn, but the stakes in this were so low even if it tried to seem otherwise. It touched on forbidden love, but the forbidden aspect is just like a slap on the wrist.
Overall, I don't think I'l be reading anything more from the author not just because of her controversy, but she simply just hasn't captured my attention enough to want to know more. Yes, I liked a single on of her books, but nothing she has written has made me want to read more besides that. Even reading the blurb of this book I was like ummmmm....but I love a why-choose. This, unfortunately wasn't done well.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
𝓟𝓻𝓮-𝓡𝓮𝓪𝓭: 👑🕊️
A why-choose regency romance? Oh I am sat 🧎🏼♀️
October 15, 2025
3.5 stars
Did it take me 2 weeks to read this book? Yes. Did I enjoy it? Also yes. This book is so deeply unserious that you cannot help but have a good time with it. It's absolutely way too long and could have been edited down, but at no point was this book boring. The beginnings of a "why choose" romance between one woman and three men, it's ridiculous, but in a good way.
Did it take me 2 weeks to read this book? Yes. Did I enjoy it? Also yes. This book is so deeply unserious that you cannot help but have a good time with it. It's absolutely way too long and could have been edited down, but at no point was this book boring. The beginnings of a "why choose" romance between one woman and three men, it's ridiculous, but in a good way.
March 29, 2022
now that I have a reading journal, I don't need to use Goodreads to keep track of my reading but here is it...
this book was kinda cool, okay?
imagine a regency RH with jane austen's feels all over. it's not perfect, there's a lot of anachronistic language here and there and it's clearly not believable...
but damn if it doesn't feel good.
rosalie was a refreshing character. she's a bit too modern, 100% a feminist of her era, but a lovely person to follow. you can't help to root for her, for her to get the freedom she craves, see her love blossom and change the people around her before she goes tackling society itself.
+ third person, multiple povs
+ jealousy
+ 100% ow drama cause you know, marriage of convenience and stuff
+ kinda fast burn, kinda slow burn
and then there's the fact that the author obviously loves jane austen and did not want to deviate too much from a beloved story; it's rh, it was written in 2022 but nothing happens.
and that's just how it should be.
but it also really tackles how ladies were conditioned to have no thoughts whatsoever and only wish for the best marriage they could.
hey, regency books are awesome and all-time guilty pleasures of everybody but it's definitely not pro women's rights...
anyhoo.
the romance is good. it's dramatic, it's sweet, and it's totally forbidden. rosalie is even less of a prospective bride than our dear lizzie bennet as she is a penniless orphan and not a virgin!
good thing she does not want to get married. why would she tie herself to a husband when she finally has no men to make decisions for her?
the book ended rather dramatically and it will be up to rosalie to pick up the pieces, and hopefully her third gentleman. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second part of this duology; I both wished this story would end at the last chapter and would last so much longer...
this book was kinda cool, okay?
imagine a regency RH with jane austen's feels all over. it's not perfect, there's a lot of anachronistic language here and there and it's clearly not believable...
but damn if it doesn't feel good.
rosalie was a refreshing character. she's a bit too modern, 100% a feminist of her era, but a lovely person to follow. you can't help to root for her, for her to get the freedom she craves, see her love blossom and change the people around her before she goes tackling society itself.
+ third person, multiple povs
+ jealousy
+ 100% ow drama cause you know, marriage of convenience and stuff
+ kinda fast burn, kinda slow burn
and then there's the fact that the author obviously loves jane austen and did not want to deviate too much from a beloved story; it's rh, it was written in 2022 but nothing happens.
and that's just how it should be.
but it also really tackles how ladies were conditioned to have no thoughts whatsoever and only wish for the best marriage they could.
hey, regency books are awesome and all-time guilty pleasures of everybody but it's definitely not pro women's rights...
anyhoo.
the romance is good. it's dramatic, it's sweet, and it's totally forbidden. rosalie is even less of a prospective bride than our dear lizzie bennet as she is a penniless orphan and not a virgin!
good thing she does not want to get married. why would she tie herself to a husband when she finally has no men to make decisions for her?
the book ended rather dramatically and it will be up to rosalie to pick up the pieces, and hopefully her third gentleman. I cannot wait to get my hands on the second part of this duology; I both wished this story would end at the last chapter and would last so much longer...
May 25, 2023
DNF at 35% - I don't think i've ever been so bored reading a book 🙃
July 28, 2025
3.5/5
a why-choose regency romance?!? sign me up ✍🏼
this book was so unserious and gives the same ridiculous vibes as the bridgerton show, but I cannot deny its entertainment value! I flew through this 400+ page romance book in 2 days 🫣
my fav part of a regency romance is the tension and yearning, there’s nothing as fun as the characters finally touching SHOULDERS after 200 pages and this book delivered on that!! bonus points that it was 3 MEN 🤭🫣
also side note - george may be an ass and the most useless duke I’ve ever read about, but some of his one liners and shenanigans were so hilariously ridiculous that he may have ended up my fav character in this book 🤣
my only complaint is that I don’t think this book needed to be as long as it was, especially with the super long descriptions of how london society looks and the inner workings of this estate. there is also a sequel so I’m curious what else these characters will be up to! other than that, it was a fun time and if you’re looking for a fun spicy take on a typical regency romance, emily rath has provided 😌
thank you to Hambright PR, Kensington Publishing, and Emily Rath for the e-ARC and physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
a why-choose regency romance?!? sign me up ✍🏼
this book was so unserious and gives the same ridiculous vibes as the bridgerton show, but I cannot deny its entertainment value! I flew through this 400+ page romance book in 2 days 🫣
my fav part of a regency romance is the tension and yearning, there’s nothing as fun as the characters finally touching SHOULDERS after 200 pages and this book delivered on that!! bonus points that it was 3 MEN 🤭🫣
also side note - george may be an ass and the most useless duke I’ve ever read about, but some of his one liners and shenanigans were so hilariously ridiculous that he may have ended up my fav character in this book 🤣
my only complaint is that I don’t think this book needed to be as long as it was, especially with the super long descriptions of how london society looks and the inner workings of this estate. there is also a sequel so I’m curious what else these characters will be up to! other than that, it was a fun time and if you’re looking for a fun spicy take on a typical regency romance, emily rath has provided 😌
thank you to Hambright PR, Kensington Publishing, and Emily Rath for the e-ARC and physical copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 16, 2025
A why choose historical romance isn't something I'd typically go after but I really enjoyed this book. The Jane Austen/Bridgerton vibes is what initially drew me in. I didn't mind the slow burn because it was done so well that I didn't get bored at all.
Rosalie is 22 and needs to find a husband or work. She finds herself at a party where everyone is looking to catch the eye of the Duke where she finds herself interested in 3 different men. I find myself laughing throughout this book and I didn't want to put this down.
A big thanks to Netgalley and Kensington publishing for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
Rosalie is 22 and needs to find a husband or work. She finds herself at a party where everyone is looking to catch the eye of the Duke where she finds herself interested in 3 different men. I find myself laughing throughout this book and I didn't want to put this down.
A big thanks to Netgalley and Kensington publishing for the e-arc in exchange for my honest review.
May 5, 2025
Oh my goodness, if you ever thought, gosh, I love Pucking Around but I wish it were a Regency romance - surprise, Emily Rath has just the book for you! Beautiful Things is the first book in a why choose duet, and it has so many similar vibes to her iconic hockey romance. A beautiful, strong FMC who isn't looking for love AT ALL somehow manages to find herself falling for THREE incredible men... and none of them are suitable matches. The story is full of banter, swoony moments, and some hot spice, and I can't wait to read the second book, His Grace, The Duke to see where things go!
I was a huge fan of Rosalie from the very beginning. She's virtually penniless and doesn't intend to ever marry, so she's surprised when the men of Alcott Hall flirt with her incessantly. However, she also can't help doing it right back, and I don't blame here because I'd fall for them too. There's dashing naval officer Tom Renley, who has never recovered from being jilted... until he sets eyes on Rosalie. James is a beleaguered second son who has all the responsibilities of a duke, but not the title... and though he knows he cannot be with Rosalie due to class differences, he is constantly fighting his need to be with her. And then there's Burke, my favorite. The illegitimate son of the duke, he's in a similar position to Rosalie, and I loved his passion and humor. When they all end up staying at Alcott Hall for a house party, there is immediate tension and chemistry between all of them, and I was just waiting for it to ignite.
I will note, this first book ends on a cliffhanger, and the way I am SO EXCITED to read the second book. Rosalie is obviously falling for all three gentlemen, and they are all somewhat willing to share, so despite all the obstacles that come up at the end, you know where things are going. While there is some spice in this book, I anticipate things ramping up significantly (and I've heard it gets queer pretty quickly too!). Seriously looking forward to more, one of the most fun regency romances I've ever read.
I was a huge fan of Rosalie from the very beginning. She's virtually penniless and doesn't intend to ever marry, so she's surprised when the men of Alcott Hall flirt with her incessantly. However, she also can't help doing it right back, and I don't blame here because I'd fall for them too. There's dashing naval officer Tom Renley, who has never recovered from being jilted... until he sets eyes on Rosalie. James is a beleaguered second son who has all the responsibilities of a duke, but not the title... and though he knows he cannot be with Rosalie due to class differences, he is constantly fighting his need to be with her. And then there's Burke, my favorite. The illegitimate son of the duke, he's in a similar position to Rosalie, and I loved his passion and humor. When they all end up staying at Alcott Hall for a house party, there is immediate tension and chemistry between all of them, and I was just waiting for it to ignite.
I will note, this first book ends on a cliffhanger, and the way I am SO EXCITED to read the second book. Rosalie is obviously falling for all three gentlemen, and they are all somewhat willing to share, so despite all the obstacles that come up at the end, you know where things are going. While there is some spice in this book, I anticipate things ramping up significantly (and I've heard it gets queer pretty quickly too!). Seriously looking forward to more, one of the most fun regency romances I've ever read.
January 27, 2024
Started out so promising. Eventually ended up almost skim-reading the rest of it only to realize it ended on a cliffhanger. Also, disappointed in how Rosalie’s wants are portrayed or manifested. Why is it okay for her to have stipulations when the others can’t? Hate the double standard.
August 8, 2025
What a unique and wild ride. This delightful slow burn romance is like nothing you’ve read before.
Emily Rath writes historical romance with a seasoned Austenesque allure. Written in poetic prose and with an air of romantic intrigue. Her characters are complex and scene stealing.
Rosalie Harrow is unlike all the ladies who’ve come before her. She plows through the ton making her own fate, but as a lady without means she is left with limited choices. Her one choice is clear though, after a life of misery at the hands of a cruel father, she will be owned by no man.
It is this choice that sets in gear all the events of this book. Filled with enough sexual tension to light a pyre, heat like you’ve never seen and more pining than one story has a right to. Not one but three men longing for her, desperate for her affection. And that right there is the core of this story. Love & Affection. That long forgotten feeling of unabiding love and devotion. All of these characters are seeking it, even as they profess the opposite. All they want is to belong, to be someone’s.
I was mesmerized but the unique blend of this story, entranced by its nuance and enthralled at its refusal to adhere to modern principle. Rath writes historical romance unlike any I’ve read and my only negative is that this story is too big to withstand a single book and now we must wait for book two. Though I know a happy ever after promises to be found, it will take 3 books to find it. Indeed, three books for three men but until then, none shall be happy.
The true definition of slow burn, it is the tension that sells this story. The pace constantly flowing so that you truly do not want it to end, and you’re in luck, for it won’t.
I chose to listen to this, for indeed when do I pass an opportunity for audio storytelling. Allie Rose and Dan Calley made for marvellous storytellers. Dan Calley was just the right blend of upright and wild. His cadence leaning towards the strength of the male characters and leaning into their vulnerability. Allie Rose may very well have stolen the show though. The power and magnetic tone of her voiced was absolute perfection for historical romance. The airy, floating tone of her voice giving strength to Rosalie’s stubborn adherence to her unique view. I was absolutely caught up in each of her chapters. The dual style of narration worked perfectly for this story as leaping between voices may have been jarring in this instance. Being fully immersed in a singular pov at a time made the story flow.
Emily Rath writes historical romance with a seasoned Austenesque allure. Written in poetic prose and with an air of romantic intrigue. Her characters are complex and scene stealing.
Rosalie Harrow is unlike all the ladies who’ve come before her. She plows through the ton making her own fate, but as a lady without means she is left with limited choices. Her one choice is clear though, after a life of misery at the hands of a cruel father, she will be owned by no man.
It is this choice that sets in gear all the events of this book. Filled with enough sexual tension to light a pyre, heat like you’ve never seen and more pining than one story has a right to. Not one but three men longing for her, desperate for her affection. And that right there is the core of this story. Love & Affection. That long forgotten feeling of unabiding love and devotion. All of these characters are seeking it, even as they profess the opposite. All they want is to belong, to be someone’s.
I was mesmerized but the unique blend of this story, entranced by its nuance and enthralled at its refusal to adhere to modern principle. Rath writes historical romance unlike any I’ve read and my only negative is that this story is too big to withstand a single book and now we must wait for book two. Though I know a happy ever after promises to be found, it will take 3 books to find it. Indeed, three books for three men but until then, none shall be happy.
The true definition of slow burn, it is the tension that sells this story. The pace constantly flowing so that you truly do not want it to end, and you’re in luck, for it won’t.
I chose to listen to this, for indeed when do I pass an opportunity for audio storytelling. Allie Rose and Dan Calley made for marvellous storytellers. Dan Calley was just the right blend of upright and wild. His cadence leaning towards the strength of the male characters and leaning into their vulnerability. Allie Rose may very well have stolen the show though. The power and magnetic tone of her voiced was absolute perfection for historical romance. The airy, floating tone of her voice giving strength to Rosalie’s stubborn adherence to her unique view. I was absolutely caught up in each of her chapters. The dual style of narration worked perfectly for this story as leaping between voices may have been jarring in this instance. Being fully immersed in a singular pov at a time made the story flow.
December 8, 2025
this was everything I needed
![Profile Image for Andrea ☾ [is inconsistently consistant].](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.gr-assets.com%2Fimages%2FS%2Fcompressed.photo.goodreads.com%2Fusers%2F1642113904i%2F116166019._UY200_CR2%2C0%2C200%2C200_.jpg&w=128&q=75)
March 10, 2024
4 ⭐️ I don't know if Emily Rath is capable of writing something I won't like...
She proves herself every time. Are her books long to the point of hilarity often? Sure. But, holy mother of all things romance, does she know how to write a slow burn, reverse harem, historical romance.
This is unrealistic in all the ways I love. These characters are more open-minded and free than they could've even been irl! Well, most of them...
And yes, I am already reading Book #2.
My only note: I kind of hate James.
There. I said it. Ups.
She proves herself every time. Are her books long to the point of hilarity often? Sure. But, holy mother of all things romance, does she know how to write a slow burn, reverse harem, historical romance.
This is unrealistic in all the ways I love. These characters are more open-minded and free than they could've even been irl! Well, most of them...
And yes, I am already reading Book #2.
My only note: I kind of hate James.
There. I said it. Ups.
August 12, 2023
Dnf
I didn't finish this, I only got 10% in. But I don't think it's badly written at all. I love Emily Rath, but I like my regency romance to at least give the impression that they would fit into the era and there are too many things, too early, where etiquette and decorum are broken in such a way that Rosalie would not be kept amongst such high society.
If you can put that aside, then you will probably really enjoy this. I just can't for me.
I didn't finish this, I only got 10% in. But I don't think it's badly written at all. I love Emily Rath, but I like my regency romance to at least give the impression that they would fit into the era and there are too many things, too early, where etiquette and decorum are broken in such a way that Rosalie would not be kept amongst such high society.
If you can put that aside, then you will probably really enjoy this. I just can't for me.
December 1, 2025
Rosalie is poor and orphaned, and has been invited to a three week house party by a mysterious dowager duchess who was friends with her mother (so she says). The house party is to audition ladies to marry the duke, but that's not why she's there. She's there to be mutually attracted to the duke's brother James (uptight, does all the duke work on the estate for wastrel brother), Jame's bestie Burke, the illegitimate roué who was reared in the house as a sort of son (no blood relation), and their other bestie Tom, a navy man who needs a wife to earn his next rank promotion. Well, in theory she's there for Many Secret Dowager Duchess Reasons, but in practice it's for clocking mutual hotness with these three different and complementary men. "'A lady can never have too many beautiful things.' [...] She realized she wasn't only talking about flowers." Yes, subtle. We get it.
Suffocatingly dull, the action takes place over the course of a house party for the vast most part, there's no setting change. No plot apart from three men are attracted to the same woman, she's attracted to them too. Some teensy side plots and mysteries that are quickly cleared up and don't have any narrative weight. One character faces a major life choice, and one friend thinks he should do A, one thinks he should do B, either choice works. Where are the stakes? Where is the tension? Even by the time an outside force decides to meddle and stir things up, it feels like both manufactured drama and out of the blue.
Everything we can say sometimes when we criticize romance popped its head in here. Wallpaper Romance: This was firmly England Times. One of our heroes is in the navy but no specific battles to anchor (yep, intended) us in time. It's Regency but only because the author has labeled it such, nothing in the way the characters act or anything they do backs that up. Who cares, not the author. Not Like Other Girls: We hear from everyone from the Dowager Duchess on down to the lowest servant how Rosalie is more beautiful, more engaging, more sincere than any other lady at the house party, and that every man present is entranced. "Miss Harrow was...odd. No, that wasn't the right word. Curious? Unique. Special. He smiled. Yes, that word would do nicely." Telling v. Showing: Rath asserts there is a connection between Rosalie and each of the men, but the reader doesn't feel it. Rosalie might have "caught a glimpse of the Mr. Burke behind the mask - kind and gentle, longing to belong." but the characters certainly don't act on it or show any kind of character arc about it.
Speaking of connection between the men, this is marketed as a "why choose" but no one makes any choices at all until 72% in, and with the exception of one incident, everything else is one-on-one and mostly kisses only. The three men are never involved at the same time, there's one scene of 2:1 but they stay well short of home plate. Rosalie insists she'll never marry because her father was a terrible husband, and that the men come to her only on her terms or no commitment, just fun. And then she gets super upset when other women are anywhere around them.
This book felt like a long story being told by a toddler. "And then this happened, and then this happened, and then we thought this because of this." and so on. There is no earthly reason this book should have been 472 pages (according to my kindle). And there is TRULY no reason for this to NOT end on an HEA, but instead end on a cliff hanger and be coupled with book two at 580 pages (or whatever, I'm close). I can't believe this isn't mentioned in the author's note or promotional blurbs. If this were 340 pages, I might think ok, new to me author, she's trying something new with historicals with the why choose, good to read one. But asking us to read over a thousand pages? No thanks, book one was enough. (A more kind book friend called the author a "maximalist" which is a nice way to put it). 1.5 stars and I highly recommend not reading it.
Suffocatingly dull, the action takes place over the course of a house party for the vast most part, there's no setting change. No plot apart from three men are attracted to the same woman, she's attracted to them too. Some teensy side plots and mysteries that are quickly cleared up and don't have any narrative weight. One character faces a major life choice, and one friend thinks he should do A, one thinks he should do B, either choice works. Where are the stakes? Where is the tension? Even by the time an outside force decides to meddle and stir things up, it feels like both manufactured drama and out of the blue.
Everything we can say sometimes when we criticize romance popped its head in here. Wallpaper Romance: This was firmly England Times. One of our heroes is in the navy but no specific battles to anchor (yep, intended) us in time. It's Regency but only because the author has labeled it such, nothing in the way the characters act or anything they do backs that up. Who cares, not the author. Not Like Other Girls: We hear from everyone from the Dowager Duchess on down to the lowest servant how Rosalie is more beautiful, more engaging, more sincere than any other lady at the house party, and that every man present is entranced. "Miss Harrow was...odd. No, that wasn't the right word. Curious? Unique. Special. He smiled. Yes, that word would do nicely." Telling v. Showing: Rath asserts there is a connection between Rosalie and each of the men, but the reader doesn't feel it. Rosalie might have "caught a glimpse of the Mr. Burke behind the mask - kind and gentle, longing to belong." but the characters certainly don't act on it or show any kind of character arc about it.
Speaking of connection between the men, this is marketed as a "why choose" but no one makes any choices at all until 72% in, and with the exception of one incident, everything else is one-on-one and mostly kisses only. The three men are never involved at the same time, there's one scene of 2:1 but they stay well short of home plate. Rosalie insists she'll never marry because her father was a terrible husband, and that the men come to her only on her terms or no commitment, just fun. And then she gets super upset when other women are anywhere around them.
This book felt like a long story being told by a toddler. "And then this happened, and then this happened, and then we thought this because of this." and so on. There is no earthly reason this book should have been 472 pages (according to my kindle). And there is TRULY no reason for this to NOT end on an HEA, but instead end on a cliff hanger and be coupled with book two at 580 pages (or whatever, I'm close). I can't believe this isn't mentioned in the author's note or promotional blurbs. If this were 340 pages, I might think ok, new to me author, she's trying something new with historicals with the why choose, good to read one. But asking us to read over a thousand pages? No thanks, book one was enough. (A more kind book friend called the author a "maximalist" which is a nice way to put it). 1.5 stars and I highly recommend not reading it.
August 29, 2025
4 Jezebel Stars ⭐️
Spicy Rating: 🌶️.5/5
𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
Rosealie Harrow is an orphan whose only living relative is her aunt. One day, surprisingly, she gets an invite from a duchess to come to a summer house party she is hosting with the goal of finding her son, the duke, a wife. The Duchess very quickly sets Rosealie straight that she was not invited as a potential candidate, but because her mother was close friends with the Duchess at one point before they had a falling out, so she wants to try to make amends through her daughter... while also having Rosealie serve as her eyes and ears on the ground for the woman who ARE wife candidates. Things start to get complicated, however, when she is constantly put into close proximity with the Duke's younger brother Lord James Corbin and his best friends, Burke and Lieutenant Tom Renley... and they are all practically enamoured by our Rosealie and don't seem to mind sharing.
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
Now, I first should say, if you...(like me) were expecting our heroine to be a damsel who is shy, demure and innocent as a rose... this is not going to be the type of book for you. So if you are used to picking up a Sarah MacLean, Lisa Kleypas or a Julia Quinn and expect a Bridgerton 2.0 close the book and go find a traditional regency romance... BECAUSE THIS IS NOT IT!
This is probably the first time I have ever read a Regency Why Choose Romance. I don't know if Emily Rath was one of the first to do it, or in the historical reading I have done, I chose subconsciously to stay with traditional couples... So for a little while, I had to push myself into the headspace of what a Why Choose would look like in the Regency period... and if I must say, Emily Rath does a smashing job at it. If any time period was against sexual promiscuity and freedom, it was the Regency era. Which is exactly why I loved that Emily Rath chose to flip it on its head.
This book and the message are largely a big Fuck You to standards, ideals and norms. Rosealie is very opposed to marriage and will not settle down, a big taboo for a woman of that time. So I really like that the direction of the book was taking those standards and turning them on their head. Making our FMC powerful and empowered to stand up for herself as a woman who doesn't need a man to be successful or to amount to anything, because she is perfectly comfortable with who she is without one.
The men OBVIOUSLY are all gentlemen and proper and make you swoon when they go against the norms and show their FOREARMS...
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Historical Why Choose Romance
▶ Poor Girl, Rich Boy
▶ One Horse
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Strangers to Lovers
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Tending to Injuries
and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ Finger Licking Good
▷ "Good Girl"
▷ "Tell me to Stop" and "Don't Stop"
▷ "Beg Me"
▷ Cages her with his arms
▷ "Greedy Girl"
▷ Rolled Sleeves/Forearms
Basically, this book takes every regency standard, lights it on fire, and dances on the ashes. It’s bold, it’s rebellious, and it makes you fall for Rosalie while cheering for her and her men to have everything they want... SO I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE SECOND BOOK!
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Emily Rath for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Spicy Rating: 🌶️.5/5
“I want you so badly, I can hardly breathe. From the first moment I touched you in that pub, and every moment since.”...“I worship only you. Claim me, ruin me, own me. I don’t fucking care.”I have not read a regency romance is what is almost years... and I missed it so much!
𝙎𝙮𝙣𝙤𝙥𝙨𝙞𝙨:
Rosealie Harrow is an orphan whose only living relative is her aunt. One day, surprisingly, she gets an invite from a duchess to come to a summer house party she is hosting with the goal of finding her son, the duke, a wife. The Duchess very quickly sets Rosealie straight that she was not invited as a potential candidate, but because her mother was close friends with the Duchess at one point before they had a falling out, so she wants to try to make amends through her daughter... while also having Rosealie serve as her eyes and ears on the ground for the woman who ARE wife candidates. Things start to get complicated, however, when she is constantly put into close proximity with the Duke's younger brother Lord James Corbin and his best friends, Burke and Lieutenant Tom Renley... and they are all practically enamoured by our Rosealie and don't seem to mind sharing.
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨:
Now, I first should say, if you...(like me) were expecting our heroine to be a damsel who is shy, demure and innocent as a rose... this is not going to be the type of book for you. So if you are used to picking up a Sarah MacLean, Lisa Kleypas or a Julia Quinn and expect a Bridgerton 2.0 close the book and go find a traditional regency romance... BECAUSE THIS IS NOT IT!
This is probably the first time I have ever read a Regency Why Choose Romance. I don't know if Emily Rath was one of the first to do it, or in the historical reading I have done, I chose subconsciously to stay with traditional couples... So for a little while, I had to push myself into the headspace of what a Why Choose would look like in the Regency period... and if I must say, Emily Rath does a smashing job at it. If any time period was against sexual promiscuity and freedom, it was the Regency era. Which is exactly why I loved that Emily Rath chose to flip it on its head.
This book and the message are largely a big Fuck You to standards, ideals and norms. Rosealie is very opposed to marriage and will not settle down, a big taboo for a woman of that time. So I really like that the direction of the book was taking those standards and turning them on their head. Making our FMC powerful and empowered to stand up for herself as a woman who doesn't need a man to be successful or to amount to anything, because she is perfectly comfortable with who she is without one.
The men OBVIOUSLY are all gentlemen and proper and make you swoon when they go against the norms and show their FOREARMS...
𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▶ Historical Why Choose Romance
▶ Poor Girl, Rich Boy
▶ One Horse
▶ Forced Proximity
▶ Slow Burn
▶ Strangers to Lovers
▶ Forbidden Romance
▶ Tending to Injuries
and 𝙈𝙞𝙘𝙧𝙤 𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙨:
▷ Finger Licking Good
▷ "Good Girl"
▷ "Tell me to Stop" and "Don't Stop"
▷ "Beg Me"
▷ Cages her with his arms
▷ "Greedy Girl"
▷ Rolled Sleeves/Forearms
Basically, this book takes every regency standard, lights it on fire, and dances on the ashes. It’s bold, it’s rebellious, and it makes you fall for Rosalie while cheering for her and her men to have everything they want... SO I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE SECOND BOOK!
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Emily Rath for the gifted ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own
September 28, 2025
this was extremely silly but I did read it so what can I say
April 8, 2023
Well.. I will be continuing very soon. Woah!
4.5 stars
2 on thr spice scale
4.5 stars
2 on thr spice scale
July 30, 2025
“Your siren is aching, Burke. Tend to me.”
if i had to read this, so do you
if i had to read this, so do you
July 29, 2025
I think this book just became my whole new identity.
Have you ever watched Bridgerton and thought, “Man, I wish she could just have all of them!”
Or alternatively, have you ever read a Why Choose and thought, “Man, I wish this had Bridgerton era vibes!”
If either of these apply to you, then you need to RUN NOT WALK to grab this one!
Rosalie is not like the other ladies called to the Duke’s estate as a potential bride. She has no money, no prospects, and no pedigree. She’s not afraid to speak her mind and she has no desire to ever get married.
Yet she gains the attention of not one, not two, but three of the bachelors in attendance.
Yes, this is a little unhinged. But it’s so fun.
I was team Burke at first, but not in feeling more partial to James. Can’t wait to see how the next one plays out!
👑 “Sorry, darling, you won’t escape our nets that easy.”
👑 “I said I was a lady,” Rosalie replied. “I never said I was a very good one.”
👑 “Your wish is my command, Miss Harrow. I won’t kiss you again . . . until you ask me nicely.”
Have you ever watched Bridgerton and thought, “Man, I wish she could just have all of them!”
Or alternatively, have you ever read a Why Choose and thought, “Man, I wish this had Bridgerton era vibes!”
If either of these apply to you, then you need to RUN NOT WALK to grab this one!
Rosalie is not like the other ladies called to the Duke’s estate as a potential bride. She has no money, no prospects, and no pedigree. She’s not afraid to speak her mind and she has no desire to ever get married.
Yet she gains the attention of not one, not two, but three of the bachelors in attendance.
Yes, this is a little unhinged. But it’s so fun.
I was team Burke at first, but not in feeling more partial to James. Can’t wait to see how the next one plays out!
👑 “Sorry, darling, you won’t escape our nets that easy.”
👑 “I said I was a lady,” Rosalie replied. “I never said I was a very good one.”
👑 “Your wish is my command, Miss Harrow. I won’t kiss you again . . . until you ask me nicely.”
August 4, 2025
It was such a fun experience reading this with my fellow ACOTAH book club girlies. I am not someone who reads regency romances but this had me enthralled from the start. The yearning, the pining, the drama! Ahhh all *chef’s kiss*!
Now do I wait for the second book to be republished in October, or do I carry on with the series on KU? Hmmm…
Now do I wait for the second book to be republished in October, or do I carry on with the series on KU? Hmmm…
August 23, 2025
really enjoyed this story! My first ever Why Choose Historical Romcom & I ate that Bridgerton level shit UP
However what do you mean this was 63 chapters long & it’s not a stand alone????
However what do you mean this was 63 chapters long & it’s not a stand alone????
December 22, 2025
the first half was incredibly boring, but the second half was at least messy and entertaining. still. pretty bad overall.
August 12, 2025
3.75. A regency era story with a messy romance plot! Rosalie is 22 and needs to either find work or find a wealthy man. She receives an invite to an event where she thinks she’ll be meeting a friend of her late mother’s but she finds herself in the middle of a party where everyone is after the hand of the duke. She finds herself interested in not one, not two, but three different men.
This story had me cracking up! I really enjoy regency era and forget that until I read one that is done right. I did feel this book was too long, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it! The banter is so funny, the longing was great. I love that they finally touch shoulders at some point and it’s so scandalous! Such a fun time.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Emily Rath for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review!
This story had me cracking up! I really enjoy regency era and forget that until I read one that is done right. I did feel this book was too long, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it! The banter is so funny, the longing was great. I love that they finally touch shoulders at some point and it’s so scandalous! Such a fun time.
Thank you so much to Hambright PR and Emily Rath for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review!
March 24, 2022
Emily Rath has given Julia Quinn a run for her money.
- I received an ARC of Beautiful Things from BookSprout in exchange for a fair review, and this is my honest opinion:
The writing of Beautiful Things far exceeds my expectations of a debut, especially one self-published (sorry, self-publishers, but the vast majority of you do in fact tend to rush into releasing a book that’s just not ready, and it gives the lot of you a bad name). Anyway, it’s well peppered with zingers and quotes worth noting, and overall was a respectfully good read.
Snappy dialogue and the sweeping regency backdrop for it all will be well met by fans of Bridgerton and Austen alike. The story unfolds sweet and slow, and does the difficult job of believably rendering a reverse harem within the bounds of regency sensibilities. A proud feat, that will have you soaking in the steam.
My main issue, was that I was disappointed to find this book falls into the same tired trap as too many romance novels that pit women uselessly against each other. How refreshing would it have been to read a story in which a group of women vying for a marriage of convenience to a well-to-do man were—gasp—nice to each other! A story in which the heroine, a woman of sparkling wit and effortless beauty—actually LIKED other women? Nope, what we get is a girl too good for other girls. She is intelligent and so every other girl in the room must be silly and interested in vain and witless topics! Who actually CARES about fashion besides the vapid and air headed, right? What other reason would there be for not one, but three men to be irresistibly attracted to her (and ONLY her), after all? If we’re going to have girl on girl competition, I just think it would be innovative for the opposing girls to not fall into one of merely two categories: a wicked bitch, or a witless tit. Clearly this is a peeve of mine, and not something I’m too forgiving of, but—
Clumsy feminism aside, Beautiful Things is a fun foray into Regency, with a leading man to suit every reader and I can see this book appealing to a raving audience of pearl-clutching fans.
- I received an ARC of Beautiful Things from BookSprout in exchange for a fair review, and this is my honest opinion:
The writing of Beautiful Things far exceeds my expectations of a debut, especially one self-published (sorry, self-publishers, but the vast majority of you do in fact tend to rush into releasing a book that’s just not ready, and it gives the lot of you a bad name). Anyway, it’s well peppered with zingers and quotes worth noting, and overall was a respectfully good read.
Snappy dialogue and the sweeping regency backdrop for it all will be well met by fans of Bridgerton and Austen alike. The story unfolds sweet and slow, and does the difficult job of believably rendering a reverse harem within the bounds of regency sensibilities. A proud feat, that will have you soaking in the steam.
My main issue, was that I was disappointed to find this book falls into the same tired trap as too many romance novels that pit women uselessly against each other. How refreshing would it have been to read a story in which a group of women vying for a marriage of convenience to a well-to-do man were—gasp—nice to each other! A story in which the heroine, a woman of sparkling wit and effortless beauty—actually LIKED other women? Nope, what we get is a girl too good for other girls. She is intelligent and so every other girl in the room must be silly and interested in vain and witless topics! Who actually CARES about fashion besides the vapid and air headed, right? What other reason would there be for not one, but three men to be irresistibly attracted to her (and ONLY her), after all? If we’re going to have girl on girl competition, I just think it would be innovative for the opposing girls to not fall into one of merely two categories: a wicked bitch, or a witless tit. Clearly this is a peeve of mine, and not something I’m too forgiving of, but—
Clumsy feminism aside, Beautiful Things is a fun foray into Regency, with a leading man to suit every reader and I can see this book appealing to a raving audience of pearl-clutching fans.
December 28, 2025
An ok historical romance with a ‘why choose’ spin, though nowhere near as fun or engaging as other books by this author. While the spice was there, the relationships lacked emotional connection (compared to Rath’s hockey guys, for example).
This featured instalust on steroids, with almost every male character - from the top of the aristocracy down to the stable boy - described as being attracted to or enthralled by the FMC. She was (of course) depicted as the most gracious, unassuming, yet independent and forthright woman around, with a touch of trauma, oh and firmly against marriage. Basically, classic ‘not like other girls’. Frankly, I often found the FMC annoying.
At times, the story itself felt slow, stilted, or overly descriptive (though I find the latter common to many historical romances). Some aspects were also contradictory or far from believable.
However, after that sort-of cliffhanger ending, I’m curious enough that I will likely have to read the sequel after it is re-released next month. Arrghh!
This featured instalust on steroids, with almost every male character - from the top of the aristocracy down to the stable boy - described as being attracted to or enthralled by the FMC. She was (of course) depicted as the most gracious, unassuming, yet independent and forthright woman around, with a touch of trauma, oh and firmly against marriage. Basically, classic ‘not like other girls’. Frankly, I often found the FMC annoying.
At times, the story itself felt slow, stilted, or overly descriptive (though I find the latter common to many historical romances). Some aspects were also contradictory or far from believable.
However, after that sort-of cliffhanger ending, I’m curious enough that I will likely have to read the sequel after it is re-released next month. Arrghh!
April 17, 2022
I was lucky enough to read an early version of this book and I can honestly say I absolutely loved everything about it!
Rath drops you right into the heart of a realistic Regency tale with gorgeous imagery that has you grabbing for your bonnet as if you too are headed to the ball.
The story follows Rosalie as she's flung into the world of high society, luxury, social politics and gorgeous men at every turn.
Rosalie is headstrong, feisty, witty and so damn likeable, and just a bit more vulnerable than she lets herself admit.
The men, well where do I even start. They are all in their own right delectable and honourable and so fricking hot! Rosalie is drawn to each for varying reasons, and would find it hard to choose between them, but then, does she have to?
I honestly couldn't stop myself reading, an absolute page-turner!
Rath drops you right into the heart of a realistic Regency tale with gorgeous imagery that has you grabbing for your bonnet as if you too are headed to the ball.
The story follows Rosalie as she's flung into the world of high society, luxury, social politics and gorgeous men at every turn.
Rosalie is headstrong, feisty, witty and so damn likeable, and just a bit more vulnerable than she lets herself admit.
The men, well where do I even start. They are all in their own right delectable and honourable and so fricking hot! Rosalie is drawn to each for varying reasons, and would find it hard to choose between them, but then, does she have to?
I honestly couldn't stop myself reading, an absolute page-turner!
March 2, 2025
Why choose in historical times is wild—never knew that was a thing. The characters are childish at times, which provided some shits and giggles. That being said, it was way longer than necessary. Super repetitive at times, dragging on when it could have easily been chopped down to something much tighter. (2.75⭐️)
October 4, 2023
Good writing and the characters had great chemistry. Not sure I'm actually sold on this being RH, especially in the era, but the author tried her best to sell us the set up. The three guys are very good friends so that kinda makes sense, but otherwise they're not romantically involved.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,373 reviews