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Romancing Lady Rose: A Closed Door Regency Romance
She wore a perfect smile over her torment. He knew that mask all too well…
Miss Alice Montrose's family teeters on the edge of financial ruin, leaving her with one option—she must marry wealth and restore their standing in society. When she receives an invitation to the Dowager Countess of Fairfax's birthday celebrations, Alice seizes the rare opportunity to find a wealthy husband. Taken under the wing of the matchmaking dowager and her mysterious Garden society, she's determined to secure a match with the Season's most eligible bachelor, the Duke of Gainsbury.
Captain Victor Lacey is everything Alice should avoid—scarred by war, wielding a razor-sharp tongue, and fiercely protective of his friend the duke. The insufferable captain brands her a fortune hunter, making it abundantly clear she'll never be worthy of his friend. Yet with each cutting remark, Alice finds herself drawn to the one man who sees past her facade to the despair she hides beneath. As the festivities at Fairfax Hall take an unexpected turn, Alice must choose between following the path laid before her or risk scandal for a love that could mend them both.
Romancing Lady Rose is a closed door Regency romance novel and the first book in The Dowager's Garden series, where each book can be read as a standalone novel.
Miss Alice Montrose's family teeters on the edge of financial ruin, leaving her with one option—she must marry wealth and restore their standing in society. When she receives an invitation to the Dowager Countess of Fairfax's birthday celebrations, Alice seizes the rare opportunity to find a wealthy husband. Taken under the wing of the matchmaking dowager and her mysterious Garden society, she's determined to secure a match with the Season's most eligible bachelor, the Duke of Gainsbury.
Captain Victor Lacey is everything Alice should avoid—scarred by war, wielding a razor-sharp tongue, and fiercely protective of his friend the duke. The insufferable captain brands her a fortune hunter, making it abundantly clear she'll never be worthy of his friend. Yet with each cutting remark, Alice finds herself drawn to the one man who sees past her facade to the despair she hides beneath. As the festivities at Fairfax Hall take an unexpected turn, Alice must choose between following the path laid before her or risk scandal for a love that could mend them both.
Romancing Lady Rose is a closed door Regency romance novel and the first book in The Dowager's Garden series, where each book can be read as a standalone novel.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 30, 2025
293 people are currently reading
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
April 28, 2025
“Captain Victor Lacey, Allow me to introduce Mrs. Regina Montrose and her daughter, Miss Alice Montrose.” The Captain did not spare them so much as a glance. “Yes, yes. You curtsy. I bow. We are now introduced. Charmed.”
From this first interaction I was intrigued!
A birthday celebration with balls, outings, beautiful dresses, gardens, and mishaps! Alice has her hands full between her mother, the dowager, the Duke, and his best friend, the Captain. The tension and verbal sparring between the Captain and Alice were next level, so good!
Victor was my favorite character! He was a tortured man. Grumpy, blunt, and not afraid to speak his mind. He was also loyal to the Duke. Watching him fall in love was amazing!
This book deals with self-doubt/hate, depression, and thoughts of self-harm. The author writes this very well, and seeing the characters deal with these things, manage, and overcome them was beautiful.
One more quote:
“It seems you’ve managed something far more impressive—bringing the dog to heel. Even more so, I do believe Victor may think you are part of his pack now. Not many could have managed that.” “I do not think anyone could bring Captain Lacey to heel,”“Oh, you would be surprised. That one is easily tamed by the right woman.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
From this first interaction I was intrigued!
A birthday celebration with balls, outings, beautiful dresses, gardens, and mishaps! Alice has her hands full between her mother, the dowager, the Duke, and his best friend, the Captain. The tension and verbal sparring between the Captain and Alice were next level, so good!
Victor was my favorite character! He was a tortured man. Grumpy, blunt, and not afraid to speak his mind. He was also loyal to the Duke. Watching him fall in love was amazing!
This book deals with self-doubt/hate, depression, and thoughts of self-harm. The author writes this very well, and seeing the characters deal with these things, manage, and overcome them was beautiful.
One more quote:
“It seems you’ve managed something far more impressive—bringing the dog to heel. Even more so, I do believe Victor may think you are part of his pack now. Not many could have managed that.” “I do not think anyone could bring Captain Lacey to heel,”“Oh, you would be surprised. That one is easily tamed by the right woman.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
May 4, 2025
Where are my historical romance readers?! This book is for you!! Finished in less than a day because I couldn’t put it down. Alice and Victors journey will have you feeling all the emotions 🤭😂🥹🥲❤️🩹
This romance story deals with some sensitive topics, such as self doubt/hatred, depression, and talk of self harm. The author took great care and delicately wove them through the romance in a beautiful way!
Even though this takes place in a different time period, so much that Alice goes through was relatable. Honestly, I felt seen in so many instances 🫣 but alas, it made me love her even more ☺️
Thank you Sariah Drake for the ARC and opportunity to read this gem of a book 💘
This romance story deals with some sensitive topics, such as self doubt/hatred, depression, and talk of self harm. The author took great care and delicately wove them through the romance in a beautiful way!
Even though this takes place in a different time period, so much that Alice goes through was relatable. Honestly, I felt seen in so many instances 🫣 but alas, it made me love her even more ☺️
Thank you Sariah Drake for the ARC and opportunity to read this gem of a book 💘
April 29, 2025
An amazing and emotional read! This book is by far one of the best books I have read in 2025 and I’ve read almost 80. This was so heartbreaking, so emotional, so raw, and just so so good. I wasn’t expecting some of the twists in this one and honestly it was just so powerful. This is my first book by this author and I can already tell you that I will be needing to read more.
The characters were just so well done. This book has a lot of triggers, including and mental health representation as well as others, but the author did such an amazing job with them. I was in tears. Real tears. I hardly ever cry when I read, even if the book is super emotional, but this one got me because the characters thoughts and feelings were just so realistic.
The plot was great! As a historical romance lover, I found the forced proximity at a birthday celebration to be wonderful. I loved how there was this whole society of flowers and the dowagers garden where she took young girls under her wing. I’m not a big love triangle person, but the author did a great job with this, especially at the end. I was worried how everything would go, but it turned out exactly how it should have.
If you are someone who loves closed door, historical romances with forced proximity, mental health representation, and an overall well written book, I highly suggest checking this one out! It was THAT good!
I received an eARC from the author, which in no way impacts my review.
The characters were just so well done. This book has a lot of triggers, including and mental health representation as well as others, but the author did such an amazing job with them. I was in tears. Real tears. I hardly ever cry when I read, even if the book is super emotional, but this one got me because the characters thoughts and feelings were just so realistic.
The plot was great! As a historical romance lover, I found the forced proximity at a birthday celebration to be wonderful. I loved how there was this whole society of flowers and the dowagers garden where she took young girls under her wing. I’m not a big love triangle person, but the author did a great job with this, especially at the end. I was worried how everything would go, but it turned out exactly how it should have.
If you are someone who loves closed door, historical romances with forced proximity, mental health representation, and an overall well written book, I highly suggest checking this one out! It was THAT good!
I received an eARC from the author, which in no way impacts my review.
May 1, 2025
“The next time you scheme to hunt a man’s fortune, perhaps do not speak so loudly. You never know who might be listening.”
I’ve only just begun reading regency this year, but I could tell right away this one was different and really special. It doesn’t shy away from discussing some difficult mental health issues. I felt like I really got to know the FMC. Her negative self talk in the first chapter is what really pulled me into the story. I wanted to know more of why she had those thoughts and I wanted to see how she learned to handle them. Seeing both main characters handle their pain and overcome their struggles was really beautiful.
I loved the love story. The tension! There were multiple scenes that actually gave me butterflies. And that epilogue! 🥹🥰
I feel like I need to read all that Sariah Drake has written now. I’m so excited for book two in this series!
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Favorite quotes:
“She did not feel any heavier in his presence, as though the darkness in her heart relaxed around him.”
“He is one of the few men I know who has been lucky enough to be untouched by the world and all its cruelties. And while some might call him naïve for it, I think that is something to treasure.”
“..she felt only a mild flutter, like a bird beating its wings against a cage, trying to reach something outside, bright, and shining and real, just beyond its grasp.”
“You are not a fool,” Victor interrupted firmly. “Do not say such things. You are simply hurting.”
I’ve only just begun reading regency this year, but I could tell right away this one was different and really special. It doesn’t shy away from discussing some difficult mental health issues. I felt like I really got to know the FMC. Her negative self talk in the first chapter is what really pulled me into the story. I wanted to know more of why she had those thoughts and I wanted to see how she learned to handle them. Seeing both main characters handle their pain and overcome their struggles was really beautiful.
I loved the love story. The tension! There were multiple scenes that actually gave me butterflies. And that epilogue! 🥹🥰
I feel like I need to read all that Sariah Drake has written now. I’m so excited for book two in this series!
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I thoroughly enjoyed it!
Favorite quotes:
“She did not feel any heavier in his presence, as though the darkness in her heart relaxed around him.”
“He is one of the few men I know who has been lucky enough to be untouched by the world and all its cruelties. And while some might call him naïve for it, I think that is something to treasure.”
“..she felt only a mild flutter, like a bird beating its wings against a cage, trying to reach something outside, bright, and shining and real, just beyond its grasp.”
“You are not a fool,” Victor interrupted firmly. “Do not say such things. You are simply hurting.”
May 1, 2025
This book captured my attention right away, but I especially could not put it down after I reached the halfway point. I binged the second half in about 3 hours tonight...and was awake until 3 AM finishing it and writing this review, haha! I thought the plot was unique compared to other Regency books I've read. Sariah was not afraid to add in difficult topics and struggles in the main characters, and it made the romance even better when they found the person who would help them through their own darkness.
If this sounds interesting to you, this book just came out, so you can read it anytime now. I would definitely read more of Drake's work in the future!
Content: closed door, semi-detailed kisses only, su*cidal ideation/thoughts and attempts, depression, grief
Thank you to Sariah for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions in this review are my own. :)
If this sounds interesting to you, this book just came out, so you can read it anytime now. I would definitely read more of Drake's work in the future!
Content: closed door, semi-detailed kisses only, su*cidal ideation/thoughts and attempts, depression, grief
Thank you to Sariah for the ARC copy of this book. All opinions in this review are my own. :)
April 21, 2025
Romancing Lady Rose is a different kind of love story. Alice is looking to change her family’s future by marrying well, but struggles with knowing her true value which causes societal faux pas. This story has a darker feel to it and I had a hard time at first believing the changing feelings between Lady Rose and her gentleman. It was nice to see how Alice finally comes into her own. She finally decides who she is and what she wants. This is a 3.5 stars read for me just because of not feeling really connected to the characters. I am looking forward to the next book though. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2025
Lady Rose’s Choice . . .
Miss Alice Montrose, already under pressure from her obnoxious mother’s relentless training, is the family’s last hope to avoid financial ruin. Therefore, it is Alice’s duty to marry into wealth so her family will raise their standing in society. A birthday celebration for the Dowager Countess of Fairfax gives her such an opportunity if the matchmaking dowager will offer help. Can Alice capture the attention of the eligible Duke of Gainsbury? Unfortunately (or perhaps not), Captain Victor Lacey carefully watches out for his friend the Duke and he believes Alice is a fortune hunter and not worthy of consideration. Victor definitely speaks his mind! But something about his character will draw you in, especially as he and a certain lady begin to fall in love. Will she make the right choice? Is she ready to forge her own path in life with the man she loves?
Miss Alice Montrose, already under pressure from her obnoxious mother’s relentless training, is the family’s last hope to avoid financial ruin. Therefore, it is Alice’s duty to marry into wealth so her family will raise their standing in society. A birthday celebration for the Dowager Countess of Fairfax gives her such an opportunity if the matchmaking dowager will offer help. Can Alice capture the attention of the eligible Duke of Gainsbury? Unfortunately (or perhaps not), Captain Victor Lacey carefully watches out for his friend the Duke and he believes Alice is a fortune hunter and not worthy of consideration. Victor definitely speaks his mind! But something about his character will draw you in, especially as he and a certain lady begin to fall in love. Will she make the right choice? Is she ready to forge her own path in life with the man she loves?
April 24, 2025
I found this book to be delightful, and funny!!
I loved the matchmaking element of this book! It was unique. I love how Victor goaded Alice in her choice about the duke. Victor and Alice had their own past and current issues to face, I loved that they found comfort and understanding in one another.
I loved how Alice bloomed under the dowagers instruction, and better understanding who her mother was. It allowed her to know who she should choose in the end.
Favorite Quotes:
If I did not know any better, I would say that was quite the kindly thing to do.” He rolled his eyes, but a smile played at the corners of his mouth as they came together, forearms touching as they spun around each other. When he spoke, his voice dropped to a whisper that sent shivers racing down her spine. “Please, do not speak so loudly. I have a reputation for wickedness to maintain.” A most unladylike snort of laughter escaped Alice before she could stop it. Victor’s answering grin was positively devilish as he stepped away, hands folded properly behind his back.
Alice’s breath caught as he stepped behind her. Time seemed to slow as he draped the shawl across her shoulders, his fingers deliberately brushing against the bare skin at the nape of her neck as he adjusted the fabric. The touch lasted barely a moment, yet heat bloomed wherever his skin met hers. When she turned to thank him, the intensity in his gaze made her heart stop entirely.
“Why would anyone wish you to be anything other than yourself?”
I loved the matchmaking element of this book! It was unique. I love how Victor goaded Alice in her choice about the duke. Victor and Alice had their own past and current issues to face, I loved that they found comfort and understanding in one another.
I loved how Alice bloomed under the dowagers instruction, and better understanding who her mother was. It allowed her to know who she should choose in the end.
Favorite Quotes:
If I did not know any better, I would say that was quite the kindly thing to do.” He rolled his eyes, but a smile played at the corners of his mouth as they came together, forearms touching as they spun around each other. When he spoke, his voice dropped to a whisper that sent shivers racing down her spine. “Please, do not speak so loudly. I have a reputation for wickedness to maintain.” A most unladylike snort of laughter escaped Alice before she could stop it. Victor’s answering grin was positively devilish as he stepped away, hands folded properly behind his back.
Alice’s breath caught as he stepped behind her. Time seemed to slow as he draped the shawl across her shoulders, his fingers deliberately brushing against the bare skin at the nape of her neck as he adjusted the fabric. The touch lasted barely a moment, yet heat bloomed wherever his skin met hers. When she turned to thank him, the intensity in his gaze made her heart stop entirely.
“Why would anyone wish you to be anything other than yourself?”
April 23, 2025
Wow. Wow. Wow.
This is the first closed door regency romance that I've read in a long time and it reminded me just how much I love this genre!
Alice was a very relatable character, trying to live up to her mother's impossible expectations. I loved how real and flawed she was and despite how much she wanted to be perfect, she wanted to just be herself even more. Her character growth throughout the novel had me cheering for her when she finally made the decision to make her own path.
Captain Victor Lacey...*cue the heart-eyed sighs* I love a good tortured hero. And even more than that, I love a grumpy, blunt hero who stands out in society because he is not afraid to speak his mind. I loved every single characteristic in Victor, he was my favorite character from his first arrival at the dowager's birthday celebration. *chef's kiss* he was amazing! And watching him fall in love was a real treat!
Overall, I loved this book. The writing style was pleasant to read and characters gripped at me on every page, refusing to let me stop reading. It was a wonderful balance of the regency era mixed with a mental health rep that really added to the characters and the story as a whole. I will definitely be reading more of Sariah's books in the future!
TW: suicidal thoughts, mentions past suicide attempts and one attempt occurring during the novel.
This is the first closed door regency romance that I've read in a long time and it reminded me just how much I love this genre!
Alice was a very relatable character, trying to live up to her mother's impossible expectations. I loved how real and flawed she was and despite how much she wanted to be perfect, she wanted to just be herself even more. Her character growth throughout the novel had me cheering for her when she finally made the decision to make her own path.
Captain Victor Lacey...*cue the heart-eyed sighs* I love a good tortured hero. And even more than that, I love a grumpy, blunt hero who stands out in society because he is not afraid to speak his mind. I loved every single characteristic in Victor, he was my favorite character from his first arrival at the dowager's birthday celebration. *chef's kiss* he was amazing! And watching him fall in love was a real treat!
Overall, I loved this book. The writing style was pleasant to read and characters gripped at me on every page, refusing to let me stop reading. It was a wonderful balance of the regency era mixed with a mental health rep that really added to the characters and the story as a whole. I will definitely be reading more of Sariah's books in the future!
TW: suicidal thoughts, mentions past suicide attempts and one attempt occurring during the novel.
April 14, 2025
What a wonderful book! Such a beautiful romance! And I love the way it dealt honestly with the dark, negative self talk that so many have. And deals honestly with the challenges of life in a truly beautiful way. This book is so well written! It’s consistent, contains the romance of Regency times in an authentic way, and is truly an engaging read. And it explores people’s hearts in such a romantic and beautiful way! I definitely recommend it!
April 20, 2025
Romancing Lady Rose by Sariah Drake is a book that teeters on duty and the wants of the heart.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Sariah Drake ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
This book was deep, full stop. This book really was one that made me be on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. I wondered where things would go and how things would turn out in the novel. Especially in this novel there was a love triangle whether the FMC wanted it or not. So intense, because I really was rooting for both of the male leads in the novel. The author did such a great job dropping a bomb and I was in actual shock reading this book.
The inner thoughts of the FMC were intense, and some of them hit quite close to home. The burden the FMC had on her shoulders and the emptiness she felt throughout the book were portrayed really well. While reading, I was rooting for the character growth and confidence growth of Lady Rose. I really loved this book and was a great starter to this new series by Sariah Drake. I can’t wait for the next one!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to be on the edge of their seat with a traumatic story of life and love but with a happy ending.
** I would like to express my thanks to ☆ Sariah Drake ☆ for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review **
This book was deep, full stop. This book really was one that made me be on the edge of my seat from the very beginning. I wondered where things would go and how things would turn out in the novel. Especially in this novel there was a love triangle whether the FMC wanted it or not. So intense, because I really was rooting for both of the male leads in the novel. The author did such a great job dropping a bomb and I was in actual shock reading this book.
The inner thoughts of the FMC were intense, and some of them hit quite close to home. The burden the FMC had on her shoulders and the emptiness she felt throughout the book were portrayed really well. While reading, I was rooting for the character growth and confidence growth of Lady Rose. I really loved this book and was a great starter to this new series by Sariah Drake. I can’t wait for the next one!
I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to be on the edge of their seat with a traumatic story of life and love but with a happy ending.
April 16, 2025
Browbeaten to the point of meekness, she shows spirit whenever the hero is around. The main characters are very sympathetic that you feel like railing at their detractors. The love story is heartbreakingly moving. A heart tugging beautiful and well written tale.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
May 14, 2025
Alice Montrose and her mother were attending the Dowager Countess of Fairfax’s birthday house party, where Alice was hoping to find a husband. Her mother had her sights set on the Duke of Gainsbury. Captain Victor Lacey, the Duke’s best friend, also was in attendance and took it upon himself to protect the Duke from fortune hunters like Alice and her mother. As the party progressed, Alice experienced a few embarrassing mishaps, and she and Victor always seemed to be at odds. Evenually Victor supported a relationship between Alice and the Duke, who insisted that Alice and Victor work out their differences. Meanwhile, the Dowager Countess added Alice to her ‘Dowager Garden’ giving her the name of Lady Rose. Apparently it was the Dowager’s habit to take some imperfect young lady under her wing, assign a specific flower to her, and help her achieve a good match. It was her intent to assist Alice in marrying the Duke. After walks in nature, playing outdoor games, charades and cards, a proposal was made and it seemed like the Dowager was going to have another successful marriage to add to her list. But the heart wants what the heart wants even if that does not look like the smartest choice. There is a darkness that permeates this tale, leading to vulnerable moments and heartbreaking discoveries. Pain and loss is covered by fake smiles and outrageous behavior, as society’s requirements are exacting and a facade must always be in place. Lady Montrose’s behavior is erratic at best, one minute clingy and dictatorial and dismissive the next…and then we learn her personal history. Although it was easy to surmise the story’s outcome, the journey there was full of surprises and unexpected actions. This is an attention holding story with strong characters, bouts of unpleasantness, and a friendship that surpasses any I have ever known. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 17, 2025
Sariah Drake has written another exquisite novel replete with gardens and balls, and silken dresses. In this first book of her Dowager’s Garden series, we begin with the sadly repressed and depressed Alice Montrose. She has been beaten down by her mother to be perfect, and now has the burden of marrying a Duke to save her family. Alice and her mother have been invited to the spectacular Fairfax estate, where she is brought into The Dowager’s Garden, which is a sort of elite social club of women for whom the Dowager serves as a matchmaker. Alice also meets the rude and abrasive Captain Victor Lacey, who is the best friend and guard dog of the Duke of Gainsbury. For Alice to win the Duke she will have to get the approval of Capt. Lacey and also learn to like him.
The festivities get off to a horrendous start when Alice embarrasses herself when she gets ill at the ball. The Dowager, who at first has written her off as a boring girl, suddenly takes an interest in the awkward and borderline suicidal Alice and decides to help her. Alice has to navigate between her mother, who is an overbearing and hypercritical horror, and the desires of the forceful and intimidating Dowager. In the meantime, Capt. Lacey seems to do everything in his power to keep Alice off kilter.
Sariah has masterfully created interesting and sympathetic characters, and weaves an astonishingly romantic tale laced with pain and longing. It is a difficult book to put down because the story keeps going deeper, drawing the reader into the inner world of Alice. At the same time, the book is filled with yummy descriptions of gardens and moonlight, and sparkling dresses. The novel has everything you could possibly want in a Regency romance and so much more. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The festivities get off to a horrendous start when Alice embarrasses herself when she gets ill at the ball. The Dowager, who at first has written her off as a boring girl, suddenly takes an interest in the awkward and borderline suicidal Alice and decides to help her. Alice has to navigate between her mother, who is an overbearing and hypercritical horror, and the desires of the forceful and intimidating Dowager. In the meantime, Capt. Lacey seems to do everything in his power to keep Alice off kilter.
Sariah has masterfully created interesting and sympathetic characters, and weaves an astonishingly romantic tale laced with pain and longing. It is a difficult book to put down because the story keeps going deeper, drawing the reader into the inner world of Alice. At the same time, the book is filled with yummy descriptions of gardens and moonlight, and sparkling dresses. The novel has everything you could possibly want in a Regency romance and so much more. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 11, 2025
First book in this series The Dowager's Garden and my first time reading this author. Since this is the first book, I'm not sure if you should read the next ones in order or if they are all stand alone stories.
Miss Alice Montrose and her mother were invited to the Dowager Countess of Fairfax's birthday celebrations. Alice had no idea that her mother was a part of the Dowager's mysterious Garden Society. She discovers that the Garden Society is the group of women that the Dowager had matched with their spouses over the years. Each woman is given the name of a flower and a beautiful badge to wear representing that flower. Alice knew that her mother was intent on her being introduced to the eligible bachelor, the Duke of Gainsbury. When her first interaction with the Duke ends with a horrible embarrassment, the Dowager invites Alice to become a member of her Garden Society as Lady Rose. The dowager will help her make the match with him as long as her mother is not involved.
Captain Victor Lacey is a close childhood friend of the Duke and he is trying to help him find a wife. He sees through Mrs Montrose's intention to make a match for her daughter with the Duke. He will protect his friend from any fortune hunter so he makes sure Alice knows he is aware that he knows her plans in a cutting way.
Every interaction between captain and Alice seem to be volatile until he begins to see that she is as broken as he is from his past. Now his intention is to help- her make a match with his friend despite what he is beginning to feel for her.
The story for me started off a little slowly but before many pages in, I was captured by the interactions between the characters, I will definitely be looking forward to the next story in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Miss Alice Montrose and her mother were invited to the Dowager Countess of Fairfax's birthday celebrations. Alice had no idea that her mother was a part of the Dowager's mysterious Garden Society. She discovers that the Garden Society is the group of women that the Dowager had matched with their spouses over the years. Each woman is given the name of a flower and a beautiful badge to wear representing that flower. Alice knew that her mother was intent on her being introduced to the eligible bachelor, the Duke of Gainsbury. When her first interaction with the Duke ends with a horrible embarrassment, the Dowager invites Alice to become a member of her Garden Society as Lady Rose. The dowager will help her make the match with him as long as her mother is not involved.
Captain Victor Lacey is a close childhood friend of the Duke and he is trying to help him find a wife. He sees through Mrs Montrose's intention to make a match for her daughter with the Duke. He will protect his friend from any fortune hunter so he makes sure Alice knows he is aware that he knows her plans in a cutting way.
Every interaction between captain and Alice seem to be volatile until he begins to see that she is as broken as he is from his past. Now his intention is to help- her make a match with his friend despite what he is beginning to feel for her.
The story for me started off a little slowly but before many pages in, I was captured by the interactions between the characters, I will definitely be looking forward to the next story in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 23, 2025
When Alice Montrose’s mother drags her to a house party for the Dowager Countess of Fairfax’s birthday, it is with the understanding that she will save her family from ruin by meeting and capturing the heart of the Duke of Gainsbury, who is a nice great guy and a really good catch. I liked that about him because I get a little tired of evil dukes who are mustache twirling villains. The biggest obstacle in her path is the Duke’s best friend, Captain Victor Lacey, who is determined to save his friend from gold digging young ladies.
The weekend is filled with surprises including Alice’s introduction into the Dowager’s Garden, a matchmaking scheme the Dowager started years ago to help hopeless young ladies find husbands. She is committed to marrying Alice off to the duke on one condition. Alice must follow her orders to the letter at all times.
This is not a fluffy Regency romance. Both Alice and Victor have demons from their previous lives living in their heads, bringing feelings of worthlessness and pain that they still haven’t recovered from. They both recognize these feelings in each other, creating a bond that could bring them together or tear them apart forever.
Ms. Drake’s characters are so well drawn and believable that there are times in the book where you want to stop reading to give them a break from their traumas. Will these two broken souls find each other, or will the traumas of their pasts be too much for them to overcome?
I absolutely loved this book. I received an advance copy of it through Book Sirens and am happily leaving this 5-star review.
The weekend is filled with surprises including Alice’s introduction into the Dowager’s Garden, a matchmaking scheme the Dowager started years ago to help hopeless young ladies find husbands. She is committed to marrying Alice off to the duke on one condition. Alice must follow her orders to the letter at all times.
This is not a fluffy Regency romance. Both Alice and Victor have demons from their previous lives living in their heads, bringing feelings of worthlessness and pain that they still haven’t recovered from. They both recognize these feelings in each other, creating a bond that could bring them together or tear them apart forever.
Ms. Drake’s characters are so well drawn and believable that there are times in the book where you want to stop reading to give them a break from their traumas. Will these two broken souls find each other, or will the traumas of their pasts be too much for them to overcome?
I absolutely loved this book. I received an advance copy of it through Book Sirens and am happily leaving this 5-star review.
May 22, 2025
Romancing Lady Rose begins The Dowager’s Garden series with an intense historical romance that held my attention through to the final word. I will make a trigger warning, though, for there are subjects spoken of that revolve around mental health concerns, and while handled gently, they still may be of concern to some readers.
Alice must make a good marriage match to save her family. She’s been given an unexpected opportunity by being invited to the dowager’s home, taken under her wing, so to speak. She knows that the Duke is the perfect fit for her circumstances, but it’s the Captain who, with his blunt and grumpy ways, is the man she’s falling for, even if it’s not the least bit logical.
I loved watching this romance unfold as Alice begins to see and believe in her own self-worth, and one very grumpy, loyal man opens his heart. Oh, it’s not going to be an easy courtship; there will be mishaps, misunderstandings, and divided hearts. But it was so fulfilling to see Alice eventually shine and find the happiness she deserves.
If you love a sweet, closed-door Regency Romance that is well-written, with believable characters and subjects that need addressing in a gentle way, then you would love Romancing Lady Rose by Sariah Drake.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Alice must make a good marriage match to save her family. She’s been given an unexpected opportunity by being invited to the dowager’s home, taken under her wing, so to speak. She knows that the Duke is the perfect fit for her circumstances, but it’s the Captain who, with his blunt and grumpy ways, is the man she’s falling for, even if it’s not the least bit logical.
I loved watching this romance unfold as Alice begins to see and believe in her own self-worth, and one very grumpy, loyal man opens his heart. Oh, it’s not going to be an easy courtship; there will be mishaps, misunderstandings, and divided hearts. But it was so fulfilling to see Alice eventually shine and find the happiness she deserves.
If you love a sweet, closed-door Regency Romance that is well-written, with believable characters and subjects that need addressing in a gentle way, then you would love Romancing Lady Rose by Sariah Drake.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 9, 2025
** 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 **
Romancing Lady Rose is a closed door historical romance set in Regency era England by Sariah Drake. This is the first book in The Dowager's Garden series.
While I did enjoy the book and the characters, I don't totally love the book in an "omg, this is amazing sense". I appreciated the more gentle aspects of the story, and thought that this approach suited both the FMC, Alice Montrose, and the MMC, Captain Victor Lacey.
Set at the house party of the Dowager Countess of Fairfax's birthday party, there seems to be a little something in the air aside from the grand celebration. For Alice, it's not so much the romance but the possibility of finding a wealthy husband among the ton, in order to save the fortune and the reputation of her family. It's a heavy burden to bear but as a daughter of marriageable age, Alice knows what she must do. For Captain Victor Lacey, the party is just another entertainment, and when he spots Alice it's not attraction so much but seeing a young lady desperate for marriage and fortune. It rubs him the wrong way. Victor is your typical broody, wounded soldier type of character, but for all his flaws he has a heart of gold and a need to ensure all is right in the world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Romancing Lady Rose is a closed door historical romance set in Regency era England by Sariah Drake. This is the first book in The Dowager's Garden series.
While I did enjoy the book and the characters, I don't totally love the book in an "omg, this is amazing sense". I appreciated the more gentle aspects of the story, and thought that this approach suited both the FMC, Alice Montrose, and the MMC, Captain Victor Lacey.
Set at the house party of the Dowager Countess of Fairfax's birthday party, there seems to be a little something in the air aside from the grand celebration. For Alice, it's not so much the romance but the possibility of finding a wealthy husband among the ton, in order to save the fortune and the reputation of her family. It's a heavy burden to bear but as a daughter of marriageable age, Alice knows what she must do. For Captain Victor Lacey, the party is just another entertainment, and when he spots Alice it's not attraction so much but seeing a young lady desperate for marriage and fortune. It rubs him the wrong way. Victor is your typical broody, wounded soldier type of character, but for all his flaws he has a heart of gold and a need to ensure all is right in the world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 27, 2025
I enjoyed this touching story. Miss Alice Montrose has always obeyed her demanding mother, and now that her family is in financial difficulties, her mother has dragged her to the Dowager's birthday celebration. Her mother intends Alice to find a wealthy duke for a husband and pushes and pulls, even verbally abusing her to get the job done. But then Alice discovers a hidden meaning to "The Dowager's Garden" as the Dowager takes her under her wing to assist in finding a successful man to marry. This world is so new to Alice, she's fearful of making a mistake. Can her fears ruin her chances of a successful match? The first opportunity that Alice gets to dance with the wealthy Duke proves to be a failure that she can never live down. Or can she?
Captain Victor Lacey is best friends with the Duke, but he's trouble and causes problems every time he's around Alice. Yet, his caring advice and help cannot be ignored.
There's humor, romance, truth, secrets, and so much more! Can Alice escape her mother's suffocating expectations? Will the Duke and Alice wed or will Captain Lacey ruin the connection? I loved the twists and turns and adventure of "Romancing Lady Rose" and cheered Alice on as she faced adversity and made a life of her own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
Captain Victor Lacey is best friends with the Duke, but he's trouble and causes problems every time he's around Alice. Yet, his caring advice and help cannot be ignored.
There's humor, romance, truth, secrets, and so much more! Can Alice escape her mother's suffocating expectations? Will the Duke and Alice wed or will Captain Lacey ruin the connection? I loved the twists and turns and adventure of "Romancing Lady Rose" and cheered Alice on as she faced adversity and made a life of her own.
I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this review.
August 7, 2025
Alice Montrose is dragged to a house party by her desperate mother for the sole purpose of snagging a duke. Her mother did not marry well, and the family is in need of funds. Alice's mother has controlled her every movement for so long that she's a quivering mass of insecurities. Her head is filled with things that can go wrong, and with all of her potential failures. And things do go wrong. Very wrong.
Alice has stumbled into a strange garden society, headed by the very weird Dowager Countess of Fairfax, who is celebrating her birthday in search of a new "flower" for her garden. Alice becomes Lady Rose, as the countess grooms her for marriage. Her mother knew exactly what the protocol was, because she experienced it herself when she was Alice's age. And yet she blows her lid when the dowager takes over her daughter's quest for a husband. Mom has some mental issues.
Guarding the duke from fortune hunters is his rude friend, Captain Victor Lacey, who never hesitates to make insulting remarks to scare the women away from the duke.
I'm left with several questions:
Alice has stumbled into a strange garden society, headed by the very weird Dowager Countess of Fairfax, who is celebrating her birthday in search of a new "flower" for her garden. Alice becomes Lady Rose, as the countess grooms her for marriage. Her mother knew exactly what the protocol was, because she experienced it herself when she was Alice's age. And yet she blows her lid when the dowager takes over her daughter's quest for a husband. Mom has some mental issues.
Guarding the duke from fortune hunters is his rude friend, Captain Victor Lacey, who never hesitates to make insulting remarks to scare the women away from the duke.
I'm left with several questions:
May 9, 2025
Wow! What an emotional and excellent read - Alice is facing pressure from her mother to secure an excellent match as the family has fallen on hard time. Her mother's pressure is extreme and the reader realizes that Alice has faced this pressure/abuse for most of her life. She has a lot of self doubt and loathing that leads her to consider self harm. Alice's mother has set her sights on the Duke for Alice but he has a best friend, Victor, who serves as a type of guard dog. Victor is fighting his own demons and recognizes the pain in Alice. He encourages both Alice and the Duke to find a match as he feels that the Duke can heal her brokenness. However, Alice has developed feelings for Victor and she is unsure if she will be able to fulfill her family duty by marrying the Duke of she will follow her heart. This is a great story that show the pain many of us experience in our daily lives and allows the reader to realize that this pain can be managed even if it never truly goes away. I highly recommend this story!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 27, 2025
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Level: No Spice
Tropes: Clean Romance, Regency Romance
Trigger Warnings: Emotional Abuse, PTSD, Grief, Mention of Self Harm
I really enjoyed the characters and I was not expecting the deep topics that they faced. The story follows Alice whose mother is an absolute wreak and terrible in my opinion. She's obsessed with getting her daughter married off to a Duke for the money so she has a more comfortable live.
This obviously causes issues of Mental Health for Alice and since she's invited to the Dowager's birthday party, they take opportunity. Enter Victor the Captain and his best friend Elias the Duke. Most of the book is Alice's facade dropping because Victor tries hard to be a brute but he sees things in Alice that no one else sees. This changes a lot of things going on in the story and this was the moment that I started to really enjoy it. The characters had so much development that they weren't just your typical members of the ton. We see more of what's going on pass the facade.
I loved the story even with the bit that were a little tacky and wacky but it was a good read all the same. Looking forward to the next one.
Spice Level: No Spice
Tropes: Clean Romance, Regency Romance
Trigger Warnings: Emotional Abuse, PTSD, Grief, Mention of Self Harm
I really enjoyed the characters and I was not expecting the deep topics that they faced. The story follows Alice whose mother is an absolute wreak and terrible in my opinion. She's obsessed with getting her daughter married off to a Duke for the money so she has a more comfortable live.
This obviously causes issues of Mental Health for Alice and since she's invited to the Dowager's birthday party, they take opportunity. Enter Victor the Captain and his best friend Elias the Duke. Most of the book is Alice's facade dropping because Victor tries hard to be a brute but he sees things in Alice that no one else sees. This changes a lot of things going on in the story and this was the moment that I started to really enjoy it. The characters had so much development that they weren't just your typical members of the ton. We see more of what's going on pass the facade.
I loved the story even with the bit that were a little tacky and wacky but it was a good read all the same. Looking forward to the next one.
May 11, 2025
This book was heartbreakingly beautiful from the moment Victor meets Alice, immediately conveying the promise of a great love story. The narrative expertly evokes emotions, making it relatable and impactful for readers who have experienced similar struggles. It's essential to acknowledge that this story may be triggering for individuals dealing with depression, and caution is advised. However, beyond the challenging themes, lies a beautiful love story. The character development is noteworthy, making it difficult not to wish for a happy ending for all parties involved, including the Duke, who is deserving of his own story. Victor is a compelling character, and it's easy to become invested in his journey. This book is a testament to the author's skill, as it's the first book in a long time to evoke strong emotions and tears. I'm grateful to have received an advance copy for free and am providing this review voluntarily.
May 13, 2025
Romancing Lady Rose
@sariahdrakeauthor
I received a free copy and welcome the chance to review this one.
This one, this book. Wow. Romance books are largely a fairly easy read. After all, romance and happily ever after usually go hand in hand. Imagine my suprise when Alice struggles with anxiety and depression right from the beginning. Watching her story unfold while she struggles with very real feelings; and watching her character grow, but still struggling was a heavy experience. As someone who struggled with PPA and PPD, this book reached corners of my mind I had forgotten. Sariah treated this and the PTSD of one of of the one MMC beautifully. Pain does now exclude one from finding happiness and balance.
If you, or a loved one, has struggled with these, definitely have tissues on hand. It hits hard in many places.
This is the first book in this series, and I cannot wait to see how the series and characters grow.
@sariahdrakeauthor
I received a free copy and welcome the chance to review this one.
This one, this book. Wow. Romance books are largely a fairly easy read. After all, romance and happily ever after usually go hand in hand. Imagine my suprise when Alice struggles with anxiety and depression right from the beginning. Watching her story unfold while she struggles with very real feelings; and watching her character grow, but still struggling was a heavy experience. As someone who struggled with PPA and PPD, this book reached corners of my mind I had forgotten. Sariah treated this and the PTSD of one of of the one MMC beautifully. Pain does now exclude one from finding happiness and balance.
If you, or a loved one, has struggled with these, definitely have tissues on hand. It hits hard in many places.
This is the first book in this series, and I cannot wait to see how the series and characters grow.
August 17, 2025
'Romancing Lady Rose' swept me up right away. This was my first book by Sariah Drake, and I’m already a fan! The pacing worked beautifully for a swift Regency romance. The easy, engaging writing style made it a pleasure to read.
What really stood out was the depth added through Alice’s inner struggles. Having insight into her self-hatred and bullying thoughts brought a heartbreaking weight to the story. Seeing what she was willing to risk for relief was difficult, but it made Captain Lacey’s warmth and advocacy all the more powerful. His loyalty feels as intense and swoon-worthy as a hero fighting for his lady against kidnappers or wartime dangers.
I also appreciated that this romance is clean, with dynamic lead characters who truly shine. Also, the Duke is truly a class act. I am looking forward to following his love story in the sequel.
Special thanks to BookSirens for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
What really stood out was the depth added through Alice’s inner struggles. Having insight into her self-hatred and bullying thoughts brought a heartbreaking weight to the story. Seeing what she was willing to risk for relief was difficult, but it made Captain Lacey’s warmth and advocacy all the more powerful. His loyalty feels as intense and swoon-worthy as a hero fighting for his lady against kidnappers or wartime dangers.
I also appreciated that this romance is clean, with dynamic lead characters who truly shine. Also, the Duke is truly a class act. I am looking forward to following his love story in the sequel.
Special thanks to BookSirens for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 26, 2025
I so love how this author writes! Alice is a woman manipulated by her mother, who is living her life over through Alice. Alice’s sense of worth is so shattered by it. I can feel her pain and angst, listening to the spiteful words in her head as I dealt with that as well, though not to the degree Alice did. Victor has pain of his own and their initial meeting is anything but good, made only worse by his ruthless nature. But behind the gruff exterior lies a man with secrets and deep pain of his own. I was gripped by this tale and loved every minute reading it. What is fun is the author has created a novella that happens between the last chapter and the epilogue of this story. I would encourage you to read that as well! I read this series out of order and now have to go back and read #2 again, knowing I will understand the Duke better having read this one. Great read!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 24, 2025
When I am given a book recommendation from a trusted source I don’t read the book summaries. I don’t read reviews or spoilers, I just read it. I like to go in blind and make up my own mind.
So, with that mindset I will say these few things:
1. There are trigger warnings for this book! If you get triggered, hop onto Sariah Drake’s email list and ask for a trigger warning list.
2. Despite the difficult things in the books that sometimes trigger me, these books are easy to read! The writing is smooth, and it’s so easy to pick the book back up once I’ve set it down.
3. I have found, personally, that I tend to have a difficult time starting books, but by the mid- end of Drake’s books I am staying up late to finish them! So, if you’re like me, stick with them!
I was given a free ARC copy of Romancing Lady Rose. This is an honest review.
So, with that mindset I will say these few things:
1. There are trigger warnings for this book! If you get triggered, hop onto Sariah Drake’s email list and ask for a trigger warning list.
2. Despite the difficult things in the books that sometimes trigger me, these books are easy to read! The writing is smooth, and it’s so easy to pick the book back up once I’ve set it down.
3. I have found, personally, that I tend to have a difficult time starting books, but by the mid- end of Drake’s books I am staying up late to finish them! So, if you’re like me, stick with them!
I was given a free ARC copy of Romancing Lady Rose. This is an honest review.
May 1, 2025
Ah yes….. the never ending pursuit of a duke to “save the family from ruin”. What started with Alice and her mother attending a house party to find a suitable match evolved into something with much greater depth. I must admit, it was a bit unsettling seeing the mothers behaviour directed at Alice. I guess this provides more depth of context as to what brought on Alice’s darker side. While it almost seems superficial that people at the house party interact knowing that spouse hunting is going on, it did allow us to learn much more about Alice, Elias the duke and his friend Victor. The more I read on, the more I was pulled into the story. It reminded me about the frailty of life, and how people are complex beings shaped by all of their experiences. I found it very satisfying to see truth, resilience and genuine affection as well as friendship as key values to uphold. Loved it!
May 14, 2025
For the book babes who love Bridgerton or Regency era in general, you'll want to read Romancing Lady Rose. The plot kept me invested as Alice Montrose enters society in pursuit of a match to save her family from ruin. The thorn in her side is Captain Victor Lacey, a gruff army captain whose countenance bothers and intrigues Alice.
I absolutely despised Alice's mother and found myself reflecting on miserable it must have been to endure the London season and other events befitting the aristocratic class. I loved the Dowager Lady Fairfax and her little schemes. Overall a great read and I look forward to the second book 🩷.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I absolutely despised Alice's mother and found myself reflecting on miserable it must have been to endure the London season and other events befitting the aristocratic class. I loved the Dowager Lady Fairfax and her little schemes. Overall a great read and I look forward to the second book 🩷.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 8, 2025
Wow. I feel like some authors have this anachronistic take on what we now dub as mental health. I can’t reconcile the new-age acceptance and how we deal with it now contrasted with how it would have been dealt with in a different century. How it’s been woven into stories I’ve read elsewhere has bothered me but this was done expertly. I absolutely loved the characters and although the Dowager’s Garden was a little cult-like for me, I still absolutely loved this book. The tension, the flow, the give and take - it was perfect. Favorite scene was tea on the veranda with all the kicking under the table. So many perfect moments that had me laughing out loud and that is not something I do very often. Can’t wait to read more by Ms. Drake!
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