Mr. Fernley and the Lady

Fernley Family #2

by Angela E. Johnson

One dance changed everything—but love could change even more.

Mr. Archibald Fernley has finally secured the most sought-after editor in England—only to learn his current manuscript is wholly unacceptable. Given one month to redeem himself, Archie is tasked with uncovering a subject compelling enough to enchant the ton while exposing the quiet inequalities of England’s social classes. Failure will cost him his reputation and his future as a writer.

Lady Rosalind Bailey has no intention of encouraging the persistent suitor her family favors. Desperate for escape, she accepts a seemingly harmless offer to dance with Mr. Fernley. But a single waltz leads to ruin when the pair are discovered alone in a secluded room leaving their reputations compromised. Marriage becomes their only option.

Thrown together by scandal rather than affection, Archie and Rosalind begin a reluctant union neither expected nor desired. Yet a summer spent at Brookside Manor may transform obligation into devotion, and a marriage of necessity into a love neither dared to hope for.

Mr. Fernley and the Lady can be read as s a stand-alone novel or enjoyed as part of the Fernley Family series by Angela E. Johnson. This is a clean marriage of convenience Regency-era romance.

Genres: Regency, Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Clean Romance, Historical Fiction, Regency Romance

222 pages, Paperback

First published October 15, 2022

About the author

Angela E. Johnson is an award-winning author and an award-winning editor. She has a BS in English Literature, an MA in Professional Communications, and an MA in Creative Writing with an emphasis in Publishing.

Angela loves to travel. She would prefer to see the Northern Lights and nature instead of riding a rollercoaster (only because the latter makes her too dizzy!)

As a native of Utah, Angela despises the snow when it is on the road, but loves snow when it falls romantically in the perfect scene for characters to fall in love. She loves the mountains and her family.

Be sure to follow Angela on BookBub for the latest releases and sales. https://tinyurl.com/5n6rkytm

Reviews

[Jerrye Tellmeagreatstorylove · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mr Fernley and the Lady by Angela Johnson

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
_________________________________
Story Notes

I just loved this sweetheart of a story. The marriage of convenience was played out with all the right moments and adorableness possible. Archie is a wonderful hero who, though a bit scatterbrained at times, honestly wants to show Rosalind respect and care. He’s determined to love her and make their marriage real in time. Rosalind is a bit reticent about love with Archie, though she knows how kind he is. I loved seeing them fall in love daily with all the conversations and experiences. Evelyn Lovitt was charmingly nasty as the “villain” and I was so glad to see her triumphed over at last. Archie and Rosalind are perfect for each other and Evelyn had no real chance after they married. Plus, the book discussions and swoony kisses between Archie and Rosalind were not something Evelyn could have hoped to have given her selfishness. I definitely recommend you check out this sweet read, especially if you like marriage of convenience. There is no third quarter breakup or problem and that just makes it so much better. I can hardly wait to read the rest of the series. The Fernley’s are certainly an interesting family.

I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and all opinions are my own.

[Sandra Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

A light Regency-era story where we know the ending, but like to watch the ups and downs of the couple along the way. Rosalind and Archie are our main characters and they are mild-mannered and kind people, which is refreshing. The reason for their need to marry is quite lame, but apparently important to the times and society in which they lived. Indeed, the requirement of propriety in everything in those days would be intensely stifling and unnecessary to our modern views. One wonders if it was truly THAT extreme! it does make for an interesting little story and this is one that is clean and uncomplicated, and easy on the mind.

[Lauren · Rating 2 out of 5]

There were some very sweet moments in this book, but I found the characters, dialogue and relationship trajectory to be somewhat awkward and disjointed. Mr. Fernley gets married and practically ignores his wife for weeks and then very suddenly decides to court her. Him ignoring her for work seemed so out of place from the person he was earlier in the book.

Their dialogue seemed so random at times and the progression of their relationship was confusing. Rosalind said and did the most random things. I couldn’t get ahold on who she was as a character. Was she serious? Flighty? Naive? Stubborn? Whimsical? She was kind of all over the place.

The back and forth between Archie’s writing and reality… the swift switch in topics from “falling in love in the country” to “ someone is missing and possibly dead” to attempted assault… It honestly gave me whiplash.

Even the whole Ms. Lovett storyline seemed odd and used randomly to cause conflict, but also not because nothing really came of it. I dunno! I just really struggled to connect with these characters and this book.

[Quenby · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very pleasant listen. Both characters are honest and earnest. A forced marriage, while not uncommon in those days, presents an interesting challenge. Rosalind and Archie could have taken a ‘just get on with it’ approach, but instead seek to establish a deep relationship. Will it turn to love? Rosalind is presented as a spoiled and very sheltered lady, which is fair as she is only 18 and considered a diamond of the first water. (Love that phrase). Archie has the advantage of being independently wealthy. That’s got to be a relief! The story is a slow developing romance, especially since Archie is committed to writing a novel that illustrates the lives of the poor. The audio is excellent, the villainess is annoying and despicable. Enjoyable

[Lisa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This wasn't my favorite, and honestly, I almost stopped reading it a few times, but I figured in order to give a fair review I should read the whole thing. The story didn't seem very realistic. The servants were impertinent, the marriage of convenience didn't have a lot of development, the story seemed more about Archie's book writing than a romantic connection with his new wife. I enjoyed the first book in the series, but I don't know if I'll read more after this one.

[Emily · Rating 2 out of 5]

Slow with no Sizzle

This is a slow meandering story.
If you're just looking to read a nice story you may enjoy it.
If you are looking for romance, there is just no zing. No anticipation, heart flutters, build up, or payoff. I found the romance to be extremely dull.

[Kim · Rating 2 out of 5]

The beginning was lovely, and the “Little Miss” recitation was exceptional! However, the overall plot needed better organization, and the characters kept acting in nonsensical ways. A lot of “Wait—what?!” moments.

[Laura Thomas · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not a fan

Too many characters, stories which were not cohesive which left a choppy narrative. Author did so much telling instead of showing. Will definitely not read this series.

[Carol Bisig · Rating 2 out of 5]

Liberal Politics Disguised As Fiction!

I have read so many false advertisement these past three years in the publishing world. This is supposed to be about a young Lady who finds out her future husband has no intention of being faithful to her, then she is compromised and must marry a stranger, a Meet Cute is what should have happened, no, we get another book with a running commentary on liberal politics, disguised as entertainment, in reality it brings up every ill in Society, somehow it's the Conservatives fault, good grief, please just write a non fiction account of grievances and be forthright in the blurbs. This is stressful, not escapism. Sorry, but it's my dime and my honest opinion. Thank you.
carolintallahassee

[June Calvin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure about this one.

Mr. Fernley and the Lady, by Angela Johnson, is a puzzle. The basic story is a marriage by compromise story. The precipitating event didn't seem very compromising, and everyone jumped on it almost as if the parents had been wanting to get rid of her, which prior to the event hadn't appeared to be the case. The story is told in a very leisurely way, and to be honest gets a little boring at the because of that. The author doesn't appear to have any idea what the publishing industry was like in the Regency (or is it later - hard to tell). Still, it is a sweet story of love that grows because the two main characters are basically good people who are kind to one another.

[Mary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not a lot to like in this story

I doubt I will recall much about this story in a few days' time. Neither H/h is likeable nor memorable. The most annoying aspect for me was referring to his Grace as "Duke Wharton" rather than the Duke of Wharton. Small plot inconsistencies got in the way: if Hadrian's Wall is a day trip, why did they travel (camping outdoors) 5 days? How can Rosalind's maid NOT point out the pocket specially sewn into that riding habit? How many times can these two come so close to kissing and be interrupted again? Does Miss Lovitt ever have her paternity suspicion quashed? What happened to all those gowns ordered as distractions while waiting to hear the "inevitable" news? Frankly, Angela. . . .

[Melody Tregear · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely story 3½ stars

I really enjoyed Archie and Rosalind's story. There are some unexpected turns but overall it's pretty straightforward. Their journey to love was sweet. There are some unanswered threads, but it is secondary to the main story and doesn't really take away from it. I only mention it because I much prefer everything answered and wrapped up. The ending was ok. Nice, but lacked oomph. It isn't an 'aah' moment. I wanted more from the ending. Overall though I enjoyed the story enough to read this author again.

[Libby Bell · Rating 2 out of 5]

An average book.

[Joelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This marriage of convenience to avoid as much scandal as possible was 100% delightful. Archie is the charming hero who steps in to save Rosalind from a marriage of loneliness and heartbreak. Watching him discover that there is more outside of writing, most importantly a beautiful and loving wife is heartwarming. And Rosalind, watching her discover that while poise and rule following is the correct approach to life there also needs to be living in that life, fun and raw moments to be enjoyed. Thrown together they discover that love is possible, real and perhaps, their favorite part of life.

The setting came with its beauty and tension all in its own from the carriage rides, the walks to visit neighbors and the back and forth of London to Scotland and back. Each aspect of the story added to it in beauty and made the plot richer. There are laugh out loud moments, witty banter that keeps you glued to the pages, moments of heartbreak and best of all the heart melting, swoon worthy moments that have you rooting for Archie and Rosalind.

Loved returning to the Fernley family and seeing different brothers pop in and out of the story. While this is book two in the series you do not need to read the first one if you want to jump in with this one. Nothing is spoiled from the first one and you could easily go back and read that one after. Whether you read this one first or second make time to read it because you will fall in love with Archie and Rosalind. This is a must-read recommendation from me!

*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. A review was not required and all opinions are my own.

[Maria Thomas · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new to me author I believe and there was a lot to like about the story. I loved that Rosalind and Archie both valued having a real relationship in their marriage. I kind of expected that they would achieve that if he brought her into his writing process instead of ignoring her while he wrote but it came about differently. It was very sweet when they spent time together. It would be easy to fall in love in those situations I think. But why didn't she let him off the hook on the ridiculous number of flowers. Still his determination showed his feelings and his character.

It is possible that the book began to drag a little with it taking so long for Archie to find time with her. She was bored and I began to wonder if anything would ever happen to move their relationship along.

Didn't feel like the conflict with Miss Lovitt really resolved. What was her real motivation? Did she think she could break up the marriage and gain the property she so clearly wanted? He's already married dude. It is too late to win him. She was not a great person and her father was pretty unpleasant as well. Also, the maid probably should have been moved to a different position or let go for her sassiness. She was totally inappropriate.

I listened to the audiobook and found the narrator did a really fine job. The accents all sounded good to me.

Overall I enjoyed the main characters and the story.

Sex: no
Language: no
Violence: attempted sexual assault

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

My review

Mr. Fernley just wants to write. He has no plans for marriage.
Rosalind plans to marry, but wants love to be the reason. Author Angela Johnson takes their tale to Scotland where love has a chance to blossom. Another story well written and worth your time! Happy reading, friends!

Book Description: When love arrives on a racing horse, who knew it would require one thousand white lilies?

Mr. Archibald Fernley has secured the most sought-after editor in England only to discover his current manuscript is unacceptable. With a deadline of one month, Archie’s assignment is to discover a topic to enchant the ton while exposing the inequalities in England’s social classes. On the eve of his departure from London, Archie finds himself entangled in a scandal providing him with a bride.

To escape an unwanted suitor, Lady Rosalind Bailey accepts an offer to dance with Mr. Fernley. A waltz leads to scandal when they are discovered in a secluded room without an escort and are forced to marry.

Rosalind and Archie are not a love match, but a summer at Brookside Manor and a courtship culminating with one thousand white lilies could make a world of difference in their marriage and lead their souls to love.

This book can be read as s a stand-alone novel or enjoyed as part of the Fernley Family series by Angela Johnson. This is a sweet Regency-era romance.

[Wanda Compton · Rating 5 out of 5]

lady Rosalind and Mr fernley

When Rosalind is told by the man she is engaged to he intends to see other women when the are married she tries to refuse his proposal with her parents will not allow it. Devastated she confines to her friend at a ball all that has happened. When she asks Audrey if she thinks all men are philanderers they talk to her friends the Fernley brothers to get their opinion. Caught alone with Archibald Fernley they are forced to marry the next day. They immediately leave for his estate in Scotland.When they arrive Archie is so involved in writing an article with a deadline he leaves Rosalind to herself. She also has to deal with someone in the village who thought she would be Mrs Finley and is spreading lies and trying to intimidate Rosalind. Rosalind has been raised in the Ton and knows how to deal with her. When Archie realizes he is ignoring Rosalind he makes an effort to spend time with her and get to know her. But is it too little too late.

I loved both Archie and Rosalind. Archie is a second son but wealthy in his own right. He isn’t interested in the social life in London and hadn’t thought to get married. He is a warm and compassionate man as proven in the way he treats the people who work for him. I enjoyed their story and the slow way the got to know each other. I recommend this.

[Luci Jamison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second stand alone story in the series of the Fernley brothers was very sweet. I liked how the two characters tried to do right and stand by their convictions, even when it placed them in an awkward situation.

The hero is kind and caring, even if he gets distracted while he is writing. I liked how he honored both his marriage and his new wife’s requests.
The heroine is caught in the double standard of the Ton’s for women and men. She is appalled at what is considered “ok” for the men and then the extreme opposite for women. She also tries to make her marriage work and to see her new husband for what he IS as to oppose to what MAYBE.

There is a strong story line and characters…both those you like and others not so much.

I enjoy reading a series in sequence as I like to see the other characters’ stories and recommend the first book as well. I look forward to reading more of this delightful family/ series!

I received an ARC copy of the book and all my opinions are my own.

[Eliza Cook · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was everything I expected for Archie Fernley and so much more!

We met Archie in the first book of the series but didn't get a chance to know him very well. We knew he was a writer and had a home in Scotland. That's about it...until now!!

Rosalind is the perfect match for Archie. She knows what she wants and she goes after it. I loved the way she pushed Archie in the right direction to be the husband she needed. She says what is on her mind, and doesn't shy away from difficult situations.

Archie's manuscript was a wonderful addition to the book. I wasn't certain we would get a taste of what he was writing, but when it finally happened I loved every moment of it.

The supporting characters added depth and warmth to the manuscript.

Can't wait to see what happens next with the Fernley family!

***I received an advanced reader copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are completely my own.

[Jerrie Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book of The Fernley Brothers series. Yet it can be read as a standalone book. This is a clean romantic read. Our main characters are Archibald and Rosalind Fernley. When the two are found in a room with no chaperone they are forced into marriage. You will read what the standards of the Ton's for men and women are. Also how extreme and to the opposite these standards were for the women. The characters in this book are relatable and storyline is very strong. I highly recommend you read this book, you'll find you will want to continue following Johnson's writing. I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving an ARC copy from the author. This review is in my own words as well as my opinion.

[Katharine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Fernley and the Lady was a cute forced-into-marriage-with-an-almost-stranger-because-you-were-caught-in-a-room-together-and-figuring-out-if-you-like-each-other book. I enjoyed it very much. I wish it could have been a little longer because some of the sub-plots didn't feel that they were settled.

My only actual complaint about the novel was the book Archie was writing as part of the main plotline. It was a complete rip-off of "The Little Match Girl" story by Hans Christian Andersen and not in the least bit original. I wish Ms. Johnson had been able to come up with something appropriate to the theme that hadn't already been Out There since 1845.

I look forward to reading other books in the series.

[Brandi | RB Momma Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story was sweet and cute, although predictable. It was an easy listen as I did my tasks throughout the day, and I am looking forward to the other books in this series. When I started "Mr. Fernley and the Lady," I didn't realize it was book #2, so I will go back and read/listen to book 1 and continue on with the set.

The Misters Fernley sounds like really great fellows and I look forward to getting to know this family better.

Audiobook Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️: The narration was good. The voice actor did a decent job at multiple accents; it seemed like it might have been a tad challenging, but it was still enjoyable to hear.

[Brooke Losee · Rating 5 out of 5]

cuuuuuute! I love when the MCs are forced into marriage and end up falling in love! This book was really adorable, and it was fun to watch Archie and Rosalind navigate their growing feelings for one another. AND Archie is a writer. To say I can relate to him is an understatement. There were several subplots that kept the story flowing with plenty of intrigue. My only disappointment is that I really want to read Archie's book now. I want more than the snippet. That was such a tease! But I loved that he utilized his writing to tell the story of the less fortunate and spread awareness. An excellent read. I'm looking forward to getting more of the Fernley brothers.

[Natasha · Rating 5 out of 5]

sweet and naturally grown:)

I love how this story is not pretentious, overly exciting, with passion galore but rather a development of deep feelings of love in the marriage of convenience. The trope is not unique but the characters bring it to life. Though not the most descriptive, it’s a well-written story with very relatable characters struggling to overcome their insecurities, past assumptions and such and grow in their new responsibilities and relationships.
The nod to H.C. Anderson’s The Matches (or at least I think that) is touching.

[monacia williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love grows

I enjoyed the story of Archie and Let Rosalind, but I was disappointed with the abrupt ending. I suppose it was done this way to whet the appetite for more. The descriptions of the newly married couple's discovery of each other were interesting and entertaining. The characters, for the most part were well drawn, so much so that they ended up not being well liked. Miss Lovitt and her father, the Vicar being prime examples.
This was an enjoyable way to spend a few hours.

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Archie and Rosalind find themselves in a marriage of convenience (to save her reputation because of society’s ridiculous rules) but decide to make the best of it.
Archie neglects Rosalind as he writes his book but is frequently reminded of his error and tries hard to do better. His decision to court her as soon as he finished his story was sweet. The blossoming romance between them was so tender and once they decided to acknowledge their love they grew so close. The 1,000 lilies! Overall a sweet story but just a little slow and repetitive.

[Glendora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love and Upbringing

Scandal seems to abound thanks to the Rakes of the Ton. While sweet young ladies receive tutelage in a wife’s duty it appears the gentleman only feel their duty lies in avoiding being caught with a paramour.
Fortunately there are still families who value integrity and raise their children to cherish those ideals.
When Rosalind learns how sad life can be she’s lucky to run into Archie who is willing to play the part of rescuer.
I enjoyed the story and was glad to discover a new author to add to my list of favorites.

[Shaylin Maxwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is part of a series but it can be read as a stand-alone (although you won’t regret reading the first book- it was good!).
I loved the main characters and how they interacted with each other. The plot was clean but still romantic. It held my interest right up till the end. One of my favorite trope is the forced marriage so this one was especially fun for me to read.
I can’t wait for more from this author!

[Joy Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Other reviews pretty much spell out this story, so I'll not get into that. This is the first time I've read any of A Johnson's work. I enjoyed her description of the relationships between their families and each other. I got a little bored with Mr. Fernley's obsession with his writing ideas. I didn't get involved enough with any of the characters to read other books in this series. Since I liked her style of writing, I will check out other books she has written.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

❤️:👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

A sweet recency era story where Archie & Rosalind get married to avoid a scandal. Archie is a busy author who is wrapped up in finishing his manuscript. Because of this, it takes him some time to realize that his marriage of convenience actually ends up being the best thing to happen. It’s one of those stories where we know the ending, but love watching it unfold.

-marriage of convenience
-kisses only