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A Most Unsuitable Suitor
Not yet published
Expected 28 Feb 26The BRAND NEW scandalously spicy Regency romance from Emma Orchard! 🌶️ Praise for Emma
'An exciting new talent' - KATIE FFORDE
'Hot stuff. I loved it!' - FERN BRITTON
'Absolutely glorious' - SOPHIE IRWIN
'A delicious Regency romp' - ALAN TITCHMARSH
'Sensual and exciting' - HEIDI SWAIN
'Heyer with spice!' - LIZ FENWICK
'Witty, heartfelt, deeply emotionally authentic and incredibly sexy' - KATY MORAN
'Sexy, seductive and swoon worthy' - SARAH BENNETT
'Witty, spicy, seductive' - HANNAH DOLBY
'Perfect for fans of Bridgerton' - DARCIE BOLEYN
'Fans of Heyer and Bridgerton rejoice!' - CHARLOTTE BUTTERFIELD
'A delicious slice of escapism' - LAURA WOOD
'Heart-thumping romance' - JENNI KEER
'An exciting new talent' - KATIE FFORDE
'Hot stuff. I loved it!' - FERN BRITTON
'Absolutely glorious' - SOPHIE IRWIN
'A delicious Regency romp' - ALAN TITCHMARSH
'Sensual and exciting' - HEIDI SWAIN
'Heyer with spice!' - LIZ FENWICK
'Witty, heartfelt, deeply emotionally authentic and incredibly sexy' - KATY MORAN
'Sexy, seductive and swoon worthy' - SARAH BENNETT
'Witty, spicy, seductive' - HANNAH DOLBY
'Perfect for fans of Bridgerton' - DARCIE BOLEYN
'Fans of Heyer and Bridgerton rejoice!' - CHARLOTTE BUTTERFIELD
'A delicious slice of escapism' - LAURA WOOD
'Heart-thumping romance' - JENNI KEER
- GenresHistorical Romance
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 28, 2026
1 person is currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Emma Orchard
10 books87 followersEmma Orchard was born in Salford. She studied English Literature at the Universities of Edinburgh and York, before working behind the scenes in publishing and television for many years. Her first job was at Mills & Boon, where she met her husband in a classic enemies-to-lovers romance. She now lives in North London.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 4, 2026
✧ 𝓟𝓻𝓮 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 ✧
Shout out to Boldwood books and NetGalley for the e-Arc🫶🏻
Just Finished Bridgerton part 1, and needed more of the regency vibes, And this seemed like the perfect choice while waiting for part 2!!!
✧𝓟𝓸𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 ✧
This definitely gave me the Victorian vibes, with the fancy balls and the beauty of that era,
But it’s was a-bit boring for me bcs of how slow it was, it took forever for me to get into it.
But aside from that,I liked the sister’s relationship and related quite to that.
And although I’m not a fan of the insta-love situation, I still enjoyed their story and how they made it work alas.
Easy fast read if you’re like me trying to fill the gap until part 2 is finally out😔🤝
Shout out to Boldwood books and NetGalley for the e-Arc🫶🏻
Just Finished Bridgerton part 1, and needed more of the regency vibes, And this seemed like the perfect choice while waiting for part 2!!!
✧𝓟𝓸𝓼𝓽 𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓭 ✧
This definitely gave me the Victorian vibes, with the fancy balls and the beauty of that era,
But it’s was a-bit boring for me bcs of how slow it was, it took forever for me to get into it.
But aside from that,I liked the sister’s relationship and related quite to that.
And although I’m not a fan of the insta-love situation, I still enjoyed their story and how they made it work alas.
Easy fast read if you’re like me trying to fill the gap until part 2 is finally out😔🤝
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Most Unsuitable Suitor is an absolute delight—elegant, witty, and just the right amount of scandalous. Emma Orchard captures everything readers love about Regency romance while giving it a fresh, spirited edge that makes the pages fly by.
Allegra Constantine is a wonderfully engaging heroine: bright, curious, and far too alive for the dull parade of suitors being pushed her way. Her world is full of expectations, but none of the men vying for her hand stir anything close to passion… until Max Severin enters the scene. Cynical, brooding, and wrapped in whispers of scandal, he’s exactly the sort of man she should avoid—and exactly the one she can’t stop thinking about.
Their chemistry is irresistible. From the moment that stolen kiss sparks between them, the story hums with tension—romantic, emotional, and social. Orchard balances the swoon‑worthy moments with a deeper thread of mystery, weaving in long‑buried secrets, family revelations, and the kind of danger that feels perfectly at home in a Regency setting.
The supporting cast adds charm and humour, the period detail feels lush without ever slowing the pace, and the romance itself is both tender and deliciously bold. It’s easy to see why readers of Bridgerton will fall head over heels for this one.
A captivating blend of desire, intrigue, and high‑society drama, A Most Unsuitable Suitor is a joy from start to finish—warm, romantic, and wonderfully escapist.
with thanks to Emma Orchard, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Allegra Constantine is a wonderfully engaging heroine: bright, curious, and far too alive for the dull parade of suitors being pushed her way. Her world is full of expectations, but none of the men vying for her hand stir anything close to passion… until Max Severin enters the scene. Cynical, brooding, and wrapped in whispers of scandal, he’s exactly the sort of man she should avoid—and exactly the one she can’t stop thinking about.
Their chemistry is irresistible. From the moment that stolen kiss sparks between them, the story hums with tension—romantic, emotional, and social. Orchard balances the swoon‑worthy moments with a deeper thread of mystery, weaving in long‑buried secrets, family revelations, and the kind of danger that feels perfectly at home in a Regency setting.
The supporting cast adds charm and humour, the period detail feels lush without ever slowing the pace, and the romance itself is both tender and deliciously bold. It’s easy to see why readers of Bridgerton will fall head over heels for this one.
A captivating blend of desire, intrigue, and high‑society drama, A Most Unsuitable Suitor is a joy from start to finish—warm, romantic, and wonderfully escapist.
with thanks to Emma Orchard, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Allegra and Max’s story is engaging, even if their romance leans toward instant love. Allegra is honest, direct, and deeply driven by passion—whether she’s standing her ground in an argument or surrendering to a romantic moment. While some readers may find her spoiled or childish, I saw her more as a sheltered young woman shaped by her time, raised in an era where women were closely guarded and rarely encouraged to develop academic independence.
Max’s story, on the other hand, is wrapped in mystery and marked by a dangerous past that has left him fearful of the very family life he secretly longs for. He presents himself as a lone wolf—intimidating, detached, and seemingly without roots—but he’s unaware that the secrets he carries could endanger not only his own life, but also that of any future wife or children. Everything changes when he crosses paths with Allegra, a woman whose passion and sincerity slowly unravel his carefully constructed walls. His attraction to her is unexpected and undeniable, even to himself.
When Allegra’s reputation—and life—are threatened by a villainous figure, Max steps in, only to uncover that her family is also entangled in secrets, and lies. What follows is a story of discovery, protection, and emotional growth.
In the end, this is a sweet historical romance about second chances, confronting the past, and finding a future with the family you choose rather than the one you’re born into.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC. This is my voluntary and honest review.
Max’s story, on the other hand, is wrapped in mystery and marked by a dangerous past that has left him fearful of the very family life he secretly longs for. He presents himself as a lone wolf—intimidating, detached, and seemingly without roots—but he’s unaware that the secrets he carries could endanger not only his own life, but also that of any future wife or children. Everything changes when he crosses paths with Allegra, a woman whose passion and sincerity slowly unravel his carefully constructed walls. His attraction to her is unexpected and undeniable, even to himself.
When Allegra’s reputation—and life—are threatened by a villainous figure, Max steps in, only to uncover that her family is also entangled in secrets, and lies. What follows is a story of discovery, protection, and emotional growth.
In the end, this is a sweet historical romance about second chances, confronting the past, and finding a future with the family you choose rather than the one you’re born into.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for this ARC. This is my voluntary and honest review.
January 28, 2026
Romance can feel repetitive, Regency romance maybe even more so but to my utter delight this book steered clear from trodden paths whilst, overall, still following a certain arc and meeting certain expectations that come with the genre.
Allegra isn’t tall, isn’t accomplished, isn’t a beauty per sé, and isn’t rich. She is fierce, and stubborn, and must marry. Her eldest sister is utterly unhappy with a Duke 30 years her senior and Allegra doesn’t want that. Doesn’t want any of her suitors, really.
In a reckless mood, she goes out into the garden, but is saved -in more ways than I can explain, because plot- by Mr Max Severin - NOT her suitor.
There’s intrigue that was genuinely intriguing, themes that might feel very ThisDayAndAge but are really of all days and ages, but mostly not addressed (Mr Severin is a Quadroon, for one. Love, whom we believe and who gets to say what are others) and it is all very well written. There were parts where we were in the heads of either Max Severin or Allegra Constantine that were mainly explaining, but it never felt like info dumping, or over-explaining, or underestimating the reader or even breaking the flow of the story.
There’s some spice - well written- but no smut, and I’d like to believe some men back in Regency times were as vocal and empathic about consent (who knows? Though I think… probably not, but it didn’t bother me that much).
Actual criticism for the Deux ex Machina, but to be fair: I was too enthusiastic about, and invested in, the story to really bother.
Reading the acknowledgements I nodded - of course the author mentioned Georgette Heyer and that’s another accolade.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Boldwood books in return for my honest opinion
Out February 28
Allegra isn’t tall, isn’t accomplished, isn’t a beauty per sé, and isn’t rich. She is fierce, and stubborn, and must marry. Her eldest sister is utterly unhappy with a Duke 30 years her senior and Allegra doesn’t want that. Doesn’t want any of her suitors, really.
In a reckless mood, she goes out into the garden, but is saved -in more ways than I can explain, because plot- by Mr Max Severin - NOT her suitor.
There’s intrigue that was genuinely intriguing, themes that might feel very ThisDayAndAge but are really of all days and ages, but mostly not addressed (Mr Severin is a Quadroon, for one. Love, whom we believe and who gets to say what are others) and it is all very well written. There were parts where we were in the heads of either Max Severin or Allegra Constantine that were mainly explaining, but it never felt like info dumping, or over-explaining, or underestimating the reader or even breaking the flow of the story.
There’s some spice - well written- but no smut, and I’d like to believe some men back in Regency times were as vocal and empathic about consent (who knows? Though I think… probably not, but it didn’t bother me that much).
Actual criticism for the Deux ex Machina, but to be fair: I was too enthusiastic about, and invested in, the story to really bother.
Reading the acknowledgements I nodded - of course the author mentioned Georgette Heyer and that’s another accolade.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Boldwood books in return for my honest opinion
Out February 28
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Emma Orchard’s Regency romances are always beautifully written, steamy and entertaining. This one was no exception.
I liked Max Severin, the hero of the story, for his perceptiveness. He’s also pretty hot. The witty dialogue between Max and the heroine, Allegra was fun to read, and I enjoyed all the scenes where he interacted with other characters.
A lot of this book consisted of characters’ introspection - these chapters were interesting, but less engaging for me than the scenes in which they interacted, mostly because Orchard writes sparkling dialogue so cleverly and I would have liked more of it.
I wasn’t sure I liked Allegra, the heroine - it was refreshing in a way that she wasn’t particularly beautiful, rich or accomplished, but I didn’t really understand in that case quite why so many men of the ton were attracted to her, and especially why Max found her so irresistible before he’d even had a conversation with her. She was also a bit of a prig in the way she lectured one poor suitor who had treated her with great courtesy.
I loved the way the author played with a “what if” from history in this story, and guessed Max’s secret early on. It was cleverly done, and it was good to have an author’s note at the end to explain the rationale and historical background.
All in all, another treat for fans of Regency romances.
I liked Max Severin, the hero of the story, for his perceptiveness. He’s also pretty hot. The witty dialogue between Max and the heroine, Allegra was fun to read, and I enjoyed all the scenes where he interacted with other characters.
A lot of this book consisted of characters’ introspection - these chapters were interesting, but less engaging for me than the scenes in which they interacted, mostly because Orchard writes sparkling dialogue so cleverly and I would have liked more of it.
I wasn’t sure I liked Allegra, the heroine - it was refreshing in a way that she wasn’t particularly beautiful, rich or accomplished, but I didn’t really understand in that case quite why so many men of the ton were attracted to her, and especially why Max found her so irresistible before he’d even had a conversation with her. She was also a bit of a prig in the way she lectured one poor suitor who had treated her with great courtesy.
I loved the way the author played with a “what if” from history in this story, and guessed Max’s secret early on. It was cleverly done, and it was good to have an author’s note at the end to explain the rationale and historical background.
All in all, another treat for fans of Regency romances.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you Netgalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest reveiw. I love to read historical romances and they don't seem as prevelant in the market as they used to be. Emma Orchard is a new to me author and I am looking forward to reading more by her.
This was a slow start. The style was different then books I have read before - the first 50% really only had two characters - Max and Allegra, with few interactions with anyone else. It took a while for me to get into it, I didn't feel like there was much of a plot to this point, really just Allegra trying to decide which of her three suitors to marry and Max watching from the sidelines.
Mid-point, there suddenly became a story and an interesting one at that. More characters became involved like Allegra's Mom and Grandfather, capturing my attention. I now wanted to know where this was going and how it would end.
On a side, I do love historical fiction that you also learn something from and this offered that. I went down an online rabbit hole re: diversity in regency England and learned alot. If anyone is interested, I recommend googling Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a goddaughter of Queen Victoria.
This was a slow start. The style was different then books I have read before - the first 50% really only had two characters - Max and Allegra, with few interactions with anyone else. It took a while for me to get into it, I didn't feel like there was much of a plot to this point, really just Allegra trying to decide which of her three suitors to marry and Max watching from the sidelines.
Mid-point, there suddenly became a story and an interesting one at that. More characters became involved like Allegra's Mom and Grandfather, capturing my attention. I now wanted to know where this was going and how it would end.
On a side, I do love historical fiction that you also learn something from and this offered that. I went down an online rabbit hole re: diversity in regency England and learned alot. If anyone is interested, I recommend googling Sarah Forbes Bonetta, a goddaughter of Queen Victoria.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoyed this book. I’ve read the others in this series as well, but this could also be read as a stand alone (previous books’ main characters were mentioned, but were not an integral part of this story).
The story starts out with Allegra, unhappy with her suitors, but resigned to having to choose one as a husband, and frustrated with the little freedom she has as a woman of that time. Meanwhile, Max watches her at outings, dark and brooding, but doesn’t approach her. It took me a bit to appreciate and like these two main characters - for the first third of the book Allegra seemed to scowl at everyone and be in a foul mood, and we didn’t really learn much about Max besides he wasn’t liked by the rest of the ton and preferred to remain in the shadows. However, as the story progressed, we see more of the main characters’ personalities start to show, and their family histories and secrets are revealed. The author weaves a good story, and I enjoyed how the plot developed and their issues were resolved in the end.
Overall, I thought this was a good book and I’d recommend it. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review.
The story starts out with Allegra, unhappy with her suitors, but resigned to having to choose one as a husband, and frustrated with the little freedom she has as a woman of that time. Meanwhile, Max watches her at outings, dark and brooding, but doesn’t approach her. It took me a bit to appreciate and like these two main characters - for the first third of the book Allegra seemed to scowl at everyone and be in a foul mood, and we didn’t really learn much about Max besides he wasn’t liked by the rest of the ton and preferred to remain in the shadows. However, as the story progressed, we see more of the main characters’ personalities start to show, and their family histories and secrets are revealed. The author weaves a good story, and I enjoyed how the plot developed and their issues were resolved in the end.
Overall, I thought this was a good book and I’d recommend it. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Most Unsuitable Suitor was such a fun read with an extra dose of history added in! I have enjoyed reading Emma's books before and LOVE historical fiction. This book had me looking up more about Napoleon and the wars during his time and I really enjoyed that!
This book is about Allegra who is Viola from A Tale of Two Dukes younger sister. This book takes place kind of in the middle of A Tale of Two Dukes and is definitely a stand alone. Allegra is in London with her mother and three younger sisters for her second season and has three eligible suitors. Of course, she is drawn to Mr. Max Severin who is not eligible or ever looking to get married! I loved Allegra and Max's chemistry and that they always gifted each other with honesty.
This book has familial mysteries on both sides as well as suspense and of course loads of romance! It is such a blast and as always I am waiting to see what's Emma will write next! Highly recommend!
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book is about Allegra who is Viola from A Tale of Two Dukes younger sister. This book takes place kind of in the middle of A Tale of Two Dukes and is definitely a stand alone. Allegra is in London with her mother and three younger sisters for her second season and has three eligible suitors. Of course, she is drawn to Mr. Max Severin who is not eligible or ever looking to get married! I loved Allegra and Max's chemistry and that they always gifted each other with honesty.
This book has familial mysteries on both sides as well as suspense and of course loads of romance! It is such a blast and as always I am waiting to see what's Emma will write next! Highly recommend!
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
** ARC REVIEW **
Thank you so much to Emma Orchard and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read this ARC!
I found this book genuinely interesting, especially with the subtle layer of mystery woven throughout the story—particularly surrounding Max Severin’s origins and Allegra Constantine’s maternal lineage. That intrigue added depth and kept me turning the pages.
Max was such a compelling hero. At times, he reminded me of Anthony Bridgerton—that commanding, duty-bound energy—but in other moments, he leaned more toward Simon Bassett, with his guarded nature and emotional restraint. That combination made him fascinating to read.
Allegra initially came across as a bit naive, but I appreciated how her character developed. As the story progressed, she proved she was far more than first impressions suggested, and I really grew to like her strength and quiet resilience.
Overall, this was a historical romance with just enough mystery to elevate it, and I enjoyed watching both characters unfold in unexpected ways.
Thank you so much to Emma Orchard and NetGalley for giving me the chance to read this ARC!
I found this book genuinely interesting, especially with the subtle layer of mystery woven throughout the story—particularly surrounding Max Severin’s origins and Allegra Constantine’s maternal lineage. That intrigue added depth and kept me turning the pages.
Max was such a compelling hero. At times, he reminded me of Anthony Bridgerton—that commanding, duty-bound energy—but in other moments, he leaned more toward Simon Bassett, with his guarded nature and emotional restraint. That combination made him fascinating to read.
Allegra initially came across as a bit naive, but I appreciated how her character developed. As the story progressed, she proved she was far more than first impressions suggested, and I really grew to like her strength and quiet resilience.
Overall, this was a historical romance with just enough mystery to elevate it, and I enjoyed watching both characters unfold in unexpected ways.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC from NetGalley and I'm willingly leaving a review
You should know: language is sometimes vulgar, talk of the possibility of BDSM in the near future, open door activities, LGBT+ (closet), promise of SA
I was grateful for the recap on dance rules. I would not wish Mrs. Constantine on anyone; she speaks another language, which I tried to find to no avail (tried 5). I respected Mr. Constantine, but had an earful with their children - I didn't quite understand why they would say such things about strangers. At the beginning, I thought Allegra reckless, as she did herself with Mr. Englishby, but also with the other men around her. Max talks a lot in his head and I was glad to have his POV, sometimes sad, but sometimes quite logical. We are still left with the mystery as to how Mr. E was able to find out details about a certain family. I loved the turn of luck near the end, which made this book wonderful.
You should know: language is sometimes vulgar, talk of the possibility of BDSM in the near future, open door activities, LGBT+ (closet), promise of SA
I was grateful for the recap on dance rules. I would not wish Mrs. Constantine on anyone; she speaks another language, which I tried to find to no avail (tried 5). I respected Mr. Constantine, but had an earful with their children - I didn't quite understand why they would say such things about strangers. At the beginning, I thought Allegra reckless, as she did herself with Mr. Englishby, but also with the other men around her. Max talks a lot in his head and I was glad to have his POV, sometimes sad, but sometimes quite logical. We are still left with the mystery as to how Mr. E was able to find out details about a certain family. I loved the turn of luck near the end, which made this book wonderful.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A Most Unsuitable Suitor is the fourth book I have read by Emma Orchard. As with the others, it was a mostly enjoyable Regency romp. There was one word used that I found anachronistic or, if period appropriate, at least unlikely to be known by the character who uttered it, but other than that nothing too major pulled me out of the story. The twist of Max's parentage was easily guessable from the first hint for anyone with a little knowledge of the key personages of the period. However, that, too, was not a big issue. This one was perhaps a little more melodramatic and farfetched than some of the other works I have read by this author, but, again, that is no issue if such things do not bother you in a story. This is a work that should appeal generally to fans of the spicier end of historical romance. I am giving it four stars.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free eBook ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
4 stars – A Most Unsuitable Suitor by Emma Orchard was a very good read if you are fans of the Bridgerton-like era. Our FMC Allegra Constantine is the third of six daughters in her family. She must marry and the story begins with her in London for her second season. She has 3 suitors plus Mr. Max Severin who isn’t looking to get married. Allegra and Max have great chemistry and banter (Allegra is much more open in her speech with Max than to her potential suitors). Each of our main characters has parental lineage issuers that are addressed before they can be together. I really enjoyed this book and it is different from the others in this series.
A big “Thank You” to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me to receive a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
A big “Thank You” to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for allowing me to receive a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC!
Emma Orchard is always a reliably good new author and I enjoy getting into her new releases. Her last release was her best work to date and she continues in this trajectory with this release. I enjoyed the ancestral complications of both MCs but I did think the resolution to both their problems had a feeling of deus ex machina. That being said it felt like most of the drama was internal for these characters and I appreciated that the large conflict was them owning their fears and feelings. Steam was reliably well written and the chemistry came through. I liked the historical tidbits too and even though the twist it’s a big swing it didn’t feel silly at all. Very happy to keep reading Orchard’s work!
Emma Orchard is always a reliably good new author and I enjoy getting into her new releases. Her last release was her best work to date and she continues in this trajectory with this release. I enjoyed the ancestral complications of both MCs but I did think the resolution to both their problems had a feeling of deus ex machina. That being said it felt like most of the drama was internal for these characters and I appreciated that the large conflict was them owning their fears and feelings. Steam was reliably well written and the chemistry came through. I liked the historical tidbits too and even though the twist it’s a big swing it didn’t feel silly at all. Very happy to keep reading Orchard’s work!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Allegra is in the difficult situation of not really wanting to marry, not really liking any of her suitors, and not really having any other options. And then there’s Max with his secret smiles, scandal, and mysterious background, plus a certainty that he can never marry.
At times the plot seemed a bit all over the place, but it certainly made for a wild and memorable ride! As with all romance books, you know there’s going to be a happy-ever-after ending, but this one truly had me guessing until the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
At times the plot seemed a bit all over the place, but it certainly made for a wild and memorable ride! As with all romance books, you know there’s going to be a happy-ever-after ending, but this one truly had me guessing until the end.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I will always happily devour a new book by Emma Orchard and "A Most Unsuitable Suitor" is no exception. The tale of Allegra and Max, both content on the fringes of the marriage mart, trying to secure the most fortuitous future they can, despite a burgeoning attraction to one another is a lot of fun. The drama is compelling with interesting historical and cultural detail. Her characters are never quite what you'd expect and are the better for it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
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January 30, 2026I DNF at 45% This was not for me. I just didn’t find it to be believable. I felt like it was pushing a progressive mindset too hard and it didn’t feel genuine. There is a bit of mystery behind the MMC… and that was what was keeping me engaged… but after a scene in a dressing room between the two I just lost all interest. The FMC’s words and actions weren’t believable to me and the physical connection only is not my cup of tea. 45% should be enough time for there to be more happening.
This just wasn’t for me, but I am sure there are others that would greatly enjoy this.
This just wasn’t for me, but I am sure there are others that would greatly enjoy this.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This Regency Romance is grounded in historical details, and mixed with a bit of spice and Bridgerton pomp. It’s a fun read with a lot of subplots that make it longer than necessary.
Allegra Constantine desires a love match, her mother wants a “status” match and her suitors leave a lot to be desired. Family secrets, misunderstandings, illusions and complications make this enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the complimentary eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Allegra Constantine desires a love match, her mother wants a “status” match and her suitors leave a lot to be desired. Family secrets, misunderstandings, illusions and complications make this enjoyable.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the complimentary eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
this book wasn’t for me but i’m giving it three stars because it might’ve been a me problem.
if this wasn’t an arc i might’ve dnf’d this book 7% in when the fmc’s inner monologue said:
“there were men in society who unaccountably seemed to wish to court a short, plump, sarcastic, beetle-browed female of uncertain temper, middling accomplishments and no fortune, who had besides three annoying sisters who were bound to be a burden on him, and a mother who had more than once been described as a napoleon in petticoats.”
GIRL, you can’t think of one redeeming quality for yourself??
max’s opinion of her is slightly better but not by much. he restates she’s nothing exceptional compared to the other debutants but for some crazy reason he is attracted to her.
this book is 90% monologues and speeches from the same three people.
thank you netgalley for the arc!
if this wasn’t an arc i might’ve dnf’d this book 7% in when the fmc’s inner monologue said:
“there were men in society who unaccountably seemed to wish to court a short, plump, sarcastic, beetle-browed female of uncertain temper, middling accomplishments and no fortune, who had besides three annoying sisters who were bound to be a burden on him, and a mother who had more than once been described as a napoleon in petticoats.”
GIRL, you can’t think of one redeeming quality for yourself??
max’s opinion of her is slightly better but not by much. he restates she’s nothing exceptional compared to the other debutants but for some crazy reason he is attracted to her.
this book is 90% monologues and speeches from the same three people.
thank you netgalley for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
My thoughts:
I enjoyed the mystery aspect within the story.
Allegra grew on me after a while….she comes across as very naive.
Max was…..quite commanding for sure.
The story is very “wordy.” I wasn’t quite sure where the author was taking us. Around half-way through the book, I did become more engaged in what was going on.
Overall, this was a ok read for me.
I enjoyed the mystery aspect within the story.
Allegra grew on me after a while….she comes across as very naive.
Max was…..quite commanding for sure.
The story is very “wordy.” I wasn’t quite sure where the author was taking us. Around half-way through the book, I did become more engaged in what was going on.
Overall, this was a ok read for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This novel was heavy on the history part of the historical romance designation. Two unlikely characters meet and quickly fall in love. A future for these two seems impossible, and much needs to happen before their HEA.
February 2, 2026
I enjoy Emma Orchard's books because she writes a creative regency romance. The heroine in A Most Unsuitable Suitor, Allegra, is no typical beauty and has a spirited personality. As for the hero, Max, the ton finds him formidable, but he lives in constant fear of his secret becoming public. I enjoyed exploring the backstories in each of their families. The addition of Schiavi and Jacques made this story even more heartwarming.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
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