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Love's Academic #3
The Antiquarian's Object of Desire
Not yet published
Expected 21 Apr 26Win a free print copy of this book!
24 days and 02:35:06
5 copies available
U.S. only
When two history professors and best friends are forced to fake hate to protect their reputations, chaos ensues, in the next rollicking historical-fantasy rom-com from beloved author India Holton.
Magical-antique experts Amelia Tarrant and Caleb Sterling have been best friends forever, although lately each has begun secretly wishing for more than friendship. But when rumors about their relationship spread, they're forced to fake being enemies to protect their reputations and keep their jobs.
The resulting arguments spark havoc across Oxford University, and when they cause an explosion while fighting over a magical antique, it’s the final straw for their exasperated faculty head. He dispatches them to a job in Cumbria where even they can’t get into trouble.…
Which proves just how wrong one man can be. In a stormbound old manor house, Amelia and Caleb face magical mayhem and rampaging ghosts that make the previous havoc look mild in comparison. Most troublesome of all, though, is the secret of how they feel about each other. When it comes to tackling deadly antiques, hiding the truth in their hearts could destroy them for real.
Magical-antique experts Amelia Tarrant and Caleb Sterling have been best friends forever, although lately each has begun secretly wishing for more than friendship. But when rumors about their relationship spread, they're forced to fake being enemies to protect their reputations and keep their jobs.
The resulting arguments spark havoc across Oxford University, and when they cause an explosion while fighting over a magical antique, it’s the final straw for their exasperated faculty head. He dispatches them to a job in Cumbria where even they can’t get into trouble.…
Which proves just how wrong one man can be. In a stormbound old manor house, Amelia and Caleb face magical mayhem and rampaging ghosts that make the previous havoc look mild in comparison. Most troublesome of all, though, is the secret of how they feel about each other. When it comes to tackling deadly antiques, hiding the truth in their hearts could destroy them for real.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 21, 2026
11846 people want to read
About the author
India Holton
10 books3,963 followersIndia lives in New Zealand, where she writes fantasy romcoms featuring unconventional women and men who adore them.
India's writing is fuelled by tea and thunderstorms.
India's writing is fuelled by tea and thunderstorms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
November 5, 2025
“Talk to me, Amelia.”
“I am,” she answered, frowning. “We’re having intercourse right now.”
“Hm. If that were true, I think I’d have noticed."
i am SWOONING over caleb, if you loved wendell and emily you NEED to read this!!! 💖
india holton delivered w her usual delightfully sassy charm, laugh out loud moments, and imaginative take in this fantasy of manners hisrom! the nod to the gothic era of the time w this rain-drenched, haunted mansion made this a perfect fall read and the fun twist of *fake* hate to love between secret best friends was so fun!
“Sorry. Looking at you in your evening attire, I completely forgot I’m supposed to hate you.”
the slowburn!! the tension!!! the adoration!!!! they were so cute but also so steamy 🤭 i was throwing my ereader at the wall (in the best way)!!!!
Amelia’s pulse began to run around madly, throwing off its clothes and hauling on lacy lingerie.
holton always knows how to write a simp who can smolder the chemise off any reader and a leading lady who keeps them on their toes. i just wanted to give amelia a hug (she would absolutely hate that tho so maybe a quick pat on the wrist).
Caleb found himself thinking, not for the first time in their long acquaintance, just how lovely her eyes were, soft and dark, with lashes so long they rightfully belonged on a morally gray hero.
if you haven’t gotten into holton yet, you must but esp to get to this book 💙✨
She was his magic; she had enchanted his life from the moment he first met her.
an honest arc review ♡
“I am,” she answered, frowning. “We’re having intercourse right now.”
“Hm. If that were true, I think I’d have noticed."
i am SWOONING over caleb, if you loved wendell and emily you NEED to read this!!! 💖
india holton delivered w her usual delightfully sassy charm, laugh out loud moments, and imaginative take in this fantasy of manners hisrom! the nod to the gothic era of the time w this rain-drenched, haunted mansion made this a perfect fall read and the fun twist of *fake* hate to love between secret best friends was so fun!
“Sorry. Looking at you in your evening attire, I completely forgot I’m supposed to hate you.”
the slowburn!! the tension!!! the adoration!!!! they were so cute but also so steamy 🤭 i was throwing my ereader at the wall (in the best way)!!!!
Amelia’s pulse began to run around madly, throwing off its clothes and hauling on lacy lingerie.
holton always knows how to write a simp who can smolder the chemise off any reader and a leading lady who keeps them on their toes. i just wanted to give amelia a hug (she would absolutely hate that tho so maybe a quick pat on the wrist).
Caleb found himself thinking, not for the first time in their long acquaintance, just how lovely her eyes were, soft and dark, with lashes so long they rightfully belonged on a morally gray hero.
if you haven’t gotten into holton yet, you must but esp to get to this book 💙✨
She was his magic; she had enchanted his life from the moment he first met her.
an honest arc review ♡
January 16, 2026
"I know you need your sunshine."
↳ " That's what you're for. "
CHILDHOOD BESTFRIENDS TO LOVERS??? WHO PRETEND TO HATE EACH OTHER FOR THE SAKE OF HER REPUTATION??
Yes, yes I am doing a lot of screaming, but what's new. To no one's surprise, I absolutely loved this one 😭 all I want to do now after finishing this is to go run and reread the series from the beginning. India Holton is so talented at creating characters that you cant help but root for. You just want to give them all the biggest hug, and that was no different with this installment. I ADORE Amelia and Caleb so much. Their story is so incredibly sweet and endearing, and this book was everything I could have ever asked for.
Caleb had me SWOOOOONING. This man and his dramatics (very Howl coded in this sense) and with his adorable nicknames for Amelia 😭 (Meely was my favorite, but they all had my giggling). Their dynamic was so, so sweet. I literally can't write this review without tearing up a little bit. The characters felt so incredibly real, and the relationship was executed so well. The little moments between them that could only work when you've been best friends with someone as long as they have been. And of course, the fake hating was always so entertaining to read. We love the silly little ridiculous moments that this author is known for doing so well.
"She didn't just know Caleb. He was deep inside her heart, the truest friend she'd ever had, her most favorite person in all the world."
And while it was heartwarming to watch Caleb and Amelia discover their feelings for one another, I also really enjoyed the self love journey that Amelia went on throughout this story. This book covered topics of misogyny and sexism in academia, and it made me want to just jump into this book and yell at all of these old men. She deserved SO much more, and I love that she had Caleb by her side while realizing how lovely she is.
There is just no one who writes a fantasy historical rom com like India Holton does, they always contain the perfect amount of whimsy magical fun. And this was THE BEST ending anyone could ask for, I actually had tears streaming down my face because I wasn't ready to say goodbye. This world had such lovely characters that will forever have a place in my heart. I can't wait for what she writes next!
Thank you SO much Berkley for this arc! It will be releasing April 21, 2026!
__________________
I AM CRYINNNNNNG 😭😭😭
what an amazing conclusion to such a lovely series 😭😭
↳ " That's what you're for. "
CHILDHOOD BESTFRIENDS TO LOVERS??? WHO PRETEND TO HATE EACH OTHER FOR THE SAKE OF HER REPUTATION??
Yes, yes I am doing a lot of screaming, but what's new. To no one's surprise, I absolutely loved this one 😭 all I want to do now after finishing this is to go run and reread the series from the beginning. India Holton is so talented at creating characters that you cant help but root for. You just want to give them all the biggest hug, and that was no different with this installment. I ADORE Amelia and Caleb so much. Their story is so incredibly sweet and endearing, and this book was everything I could have ever asked for.
Caleb had me SWOOOOONING. This man and his dramatics (very Howl coded in this sense) and with his adorable nicknames for Amelia 😭 (Meely was my favorite, but they all had my giggling). Their dynamic was so, so sweet. I literally can't write this review without tearing up a little bit. The characters felt so incredibly real, and the relationship was executed so well. The little moments between them that could only work when you've been best friends with someone as long as they have been. And of course, the fake hating was always so entertaining to read. We love the silly little ridiculous moments that this author is known for doing so well.
"She didn't just know Caleb. He was deep inside her heart, the truest friend she'd ever had, her most favorite person in all the world."
And while it was heartwarming to watch Caleb and Amelia discover their feelings for one another, I also really enjoyed the self love journey that Amelia went on throughout this story. This book covered topics of misogyny and sexism in academia, and it made me want to just jump into this book and yell at all of these old men. She deserved SO much more, and I love that she had Caleb by her side while realizing how lovely she is.
There is just no one who writes a fantasy historical rom com like India Holton does, they always contain the perfect amount of whimsy magical fun. And this was THE BEST ending anyone could ask for, I actually had tears streaming down my face because I wasn't ready to say goodbye. This world had such lovely characters that will forever have a place in my heart. I can't wait for what she writes next!
Thank you SO much Berkley for this arc! It will be releasing April 21, 2026!
__________________
I AM CRYINNNNNNG 😭😭😭
what an amazing conclusion to such a lovely series 😭😭
November 28, 2025
The Antiquarian’s Object of Desire felt like an alternate universe or something of a prequel to the Harry Potter series, mostly because it was set in Victorian England, and the magical elements the series is based on. The magical teaspoons, ghosts, and potions were also parts that reminded me of the Harry Potter movies. The best friends to fake enemies to lovers arc was fun and different from other stories I’ve read, and was very charming to watch play out.
✧ Amelia is a very capable antiquarian and professor, whose hardened exterior reflects the years of perseverance in a cruel male dominated academic world. At her core, she is a total sweetheart who deserves nothing but the best, and part of her arc is really just her discovering that for herself.
✧ Caleb is a charming, happy go lucky golden retriever. The picture of a gentleman, has been in love with Amelia (who has been oblivious) all along. He really only just wants to be where Amelia is. I really liked him.
This was a very sweet romcom overall! Amelia’s guarded strength was balanced well between Caleb’s unwavering affection for her, even when they were meant to be hating on each other… it anchored the novel in a nice way. It was so easy to read and fun to watch Amelia’s walls crumble, finally allowing herself to indulge in happiness. I enjoyed it but did find the pacing to be a little slow, before realizing durr this is a slow burn. And trust me this was a …..SLOWww…… BURN 🔥 though it was really strong in the butterfly department. The love scenes just felt a little confusing to read because they weren’t very descriptive/written mostly in metaphors 😂
There were also parts of the story that touched on women’s rights in the era, and how our main character Amelia had to overcome the hurdles of being one of the only female professors at the respected university that she was employed by. Some of the scenes felt powerful, while others fell a little flat.
Full disclosure; I haven’t read the other two books, but don’t feel let out at all. I really appreciated that while this book was a story included in an ongoing series, it still stood firm on its own, and wasn’t confusing trying to acclimate to the story or magic systems.
Story- ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ★
Spice- ☆ ☆ ★ ★ ★
Overall- 4/5
Thank you so much to NetGalley to sending me a copy to review in exchange for an honest review! 🥄✨
✧ Amelia is a very capable antiquarian and professor, whose hardened exterior reflects the years of perseverance in a cruel male dominated academic world. At her core, she is a total sweetheart who deserves nothing but the best, and part of her arc is really just her discovering that for herself.
✧ Caleb is a charming, happy go lucky golden retriever. The picture of a gentleman, has been in love with Amelia (who has been oblivious) all along. He really only just wants to be where Amelia is. I really liked him.
This was a very sweet romcom overall! Amelia’s guarded strength was balanced well between Caleb’s unwavering affection for her, even when they were meant to be hating on each other… it anchored the novel in a nice way. It was so easy to read and fun to watch Amelia’s walls crumble, finally allowing herself to indulge in happiness. I enjoyed it but did find the pacing to be a little slow, before realizing durr this is a slow burn. And trust me this was a …..SLOWww…… BURN 🔥 though it was really strong in the butterfly department. The love scenes just felt a little confusing to read because they weren’t very descriptive/written mostly in metaphors 😂
There were also parts of the story that touched on women’s rights in the era, and how our main character Amelia had to overcome the hurdles of being one of the only female professors at the respected university that she was employed by. Some of the scenes felt powerful, while others fell a little flat.
Full disclosure; I haven’t read the other two books, but don’t feel let out at all. I really appreciated that while this book was a story included in an ongoing series, it still stood firm on its own, and wasn’t confusing trying to acclimate to the story or magic systems.
Story- ☆ ☆ ☆ ☆ ★
Spice- ☆ ☆ ★ ★ ★
Overall- 4/5
Thank you so much to NetGalley to sending me a copy to review in exchange for an honest review! 🥄✨
Want to read
June 3, 2025BEST FRIENDS TO LOVERS WITH FAKE HATING (to protect their reputation???).
THIS IS NOT A DRILL.
India Holton you will always be famous.
THIS IS NOT A DRILL.
India Holton you will always be famous.
January 1, 2026
BRB, double checking if any of my teaspoons are magical. 🤭
I don’t officially have a loved-and-couldn’t- care-less category on Goodreads- but if I do create it, this entire series would be in it.
Give me FMC’s fighting the patriarchy (and the feminist men fighting for them) in any world and I just tend to gobble it up. 🤷🏽♀️🥰
I requested this ARC from @netgalley not realizing it was book 3- but it was a happy mistake so I could binge read/listen to the series.
I wanted something light and fun for the end of 2025 and Holten absolutely understood the assignment. 101% smirk worthy and delightful to imagine. Like I would be delighted if Hollywood picked this up, even though the plots are a little predictable.
I would say that this is only a fluffy, silly read, but there was some surprising depth and thoughtful nuggets in this, that I could see why Holten would be a “comfort read” author. She gives us the HEA’s we really need in life. I, apparently, need more of her. 🤗 Good thing she has another completed series I need to check out, Dangerous Damsels.
Book 3 is out April 23, 2026-
So it gives you time to catch up on books 1 & 2 before them. IMHO, they would definitely be a Valentine’s month read rec.
Books 1 & 2 I listened to via audio
Book 3 I read with my eyeballs- It’s delightful in any format though!
I don’t officially have a loved-and-couldn’t- care-less category on Goodreads- but if I do create it, this entire series would be in it.
Give me FMC’s fighting the patriarchy (and the feminist men fighting for them) in any world and I just tend to gobble it up. 🤷🏽♀️🥰
I requested this ARC from @netgalley not realizing it was book 3- but it was a happy mistake so I could binge read/listen to the series.
I wanted something light and fun for the end of 2025 and Holten absolutely understood the assignment. 101% smirk worthy and delightful to imagine. Like I would be delighted if Hollywood picked this up, even though the plots are a little predictable.
I would say that this is only a fluffy, silly read, but there was some surprising depth and thoughtful nuggets in this, that I could see why Holten would be a “comfort read” author. She gives us the HEA’s we really need in life. I, apparently, need more of her. 🤗 Good thing she has another completed series I need to check out, Dangerous Damsels.
Book 3 is out April 23, 2026-
So it gives you time to catch up on books 1 & 2 before them. IMHO, they would definitely be a Valentine’s month read rec.
Books 1 & 2 I listened to via audio
Book 3 I read with my eyeballs- It’s delightful in any format though!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
can't a guy and girl pretend to be friends-to-enemies while crossing the lines of friendships in peace? must we combat gender warfare while dodging historical ghosts and cleaning up a home that would send the Hoarders hosts to the hospital?
amelia will forever be my best girl. she's full of whimsy in a world that wants to destroy every particle of it. she and caleb have a tender, beautiful relationship with roots growing from childhood. having to pretend hate someone that is essentially a critical part your existence? brutal.
but get you a man like caleb that will always have your back even when you're not in the room.
the pacing of this book wasn't my favourite and neither were some of the side characters. everytime an old misogynistic man shows up, i wish the most cursed death upon him.
still, the magical shenanigans are endless and india holton's unique prose continues to be charming.
i'll miss these characters dearly.
amelia will forever be my best girl. she's full of whimsy in a world that wants to destroy every particle of it. she and caleb have a tender, beautiful relationship with roots growing from childhood. having to pretend hate someone that is essentially a critical part your existence? brutal.
but get you a man like caleb that will always have your back even when you're not in the room.
the pacing of this book wasn't my favourite and neither were some of the side characters. everytime an old misogynistic man shows up, i wish the most cursed death upon him.
still, the magical shenanigans are endless and india holton's unique prose continues to be charming.
i'll miss these characters dearly.
December 3, 2025
I received an ARC of this book.
This was a very difficult book to review. I enjoyed the characters and found myself pulled into the story because I enjoyed them and their banter (and this is despite the fact that this book contains my LEAST favorite trope: best friends to "lovers."). But the plot and storyline was meandering at best, and repetitive, boring, and pointless at worst. I kept waiting for something interesting to happen in the midst of our MCs cataloging antiques and trying to hide not only their friendship but love for each other. But nothing DID happen. And then once it finally did, the characters still drifted from one ridiculous situation to another. It became increasingly frustrating. So, even though I enjoyed the characters, and wanted to enjoy the book..I did not.
This was a very difficult book to review. I enjoyed the characters and found myself pulled into the story because I enjoyed them and their banter (and this is despite the fact that this book contains my LEAST favorite trope: best friends to "lovers."). But the plot and storyline was meandering at best, and repetitive, boring, and pointless at worst. I kept waiting for something interesting to happen in the midst of our MCs cataloging antiques and trying to hide not only their friendship but love for each other. But nothing DID happen. And then once it finally did, the characters still drifted from one ridiculous situation to another. It became increasingly frustrating. So, even though I enjoyed the characters, and wanted to enjoy the book..I did not.
October 7, 2025
Disclaimer: I received a free electronic ARC of this title from the publisher & Edelweiss in my capacity as a bookseller. I was not paid for this review.
-
I really loved this childhood friends-to fake hating-to lovers story. There was a perfect blend of genuinely funny playful ribbing of English society in the Victorian period and a swoon worthy romance between Caleb and Amelia. The atmosphere is deliciously described at Ravenscroft Manor, while the supporting cast - while not exactly fleshed out - still feel like amusing obstacles to these two just trying to find a moment to talk to each other and maybe kiss.
Also, Caleb? Probably the MOST Howl Pendragon coded MMC I’ve seen in ages. He’s genuinely hilarious but also incredibly romantic and a character worth rooting for, 100%. He feels very well fleshed out in balance with Amelia, the FMC. She’s absolutely great - capable and knowledgeable, but with a vulnerability to her that makes her really wonderful and engaging.
I had a lot of fun with this title, as a fantasy romance rom-com it really nails the tone of playful comedy, commentary on how women are treated in academia, and heartfelt romantic tension between the lead characters. This was great.
-
I really loved this childhood friends-to fake hating-to lovers story. There was a perfect blend of genuinely funny playful ribbing of English society in the Victorian period and a swoon worthy romance between Caleb and Amelia. The atmosphere is deliciously described at Ravenscroft Manor, while the supporting cast - while not exactly fleshed out - still feel like amusing obstacles to these two just trying to find a moment to talk to each other and maybe kiss.
Also, Caleb? Probably the MOST Howl Pendragon coded MMC I’ve seen in ages. He’s genuinely hilarious but also incredibly romantic and a character worth rooting for, 100%. He feels very well fleshed out in balance with Amelia, the FMC. She’s absolutely great - capable and knowledgeable, but with a vulnerability to her that makes her really wonderful and engaging.
I had a lot of fun with this title, as a fantasy romance rom-com it really nails the tone of playful comedy, commentary on how women are treated in academia, and heartfelt romantic tension between the lead characters. This was great.
October 19, 2025
Well this is every thing I wanted it to be and then some.
I am a huge India Holton fan and was honored to receive this as an ARC.
This is the fake-hating relationship you never knew you needed. Amelia and Caleb are best friends who have to be fake enemies. It works about as well as one would expect.
This book carried all the whimsy Holton always provided. However, I feel it reaches even deeper in character development because of their friendship. This book had me giggling, tearing up, and beyond excited for every page.
I am a huge India Holton fan and was honored to receive this as an ARC.
This is the fake-hating relationship you never knew you needed. Amelia and Caleb are best friends who have to be fake enemies. It works about as well as one would expect.
This book carried all the whimsy Holton always provided. However, I feel it reaches even deeper in character development because of their friendship. This book had me giggling, tearing up, and beyond excited for every page.
arcs
July 25, 2025LOVE this series! So excited!
I hope the Cover is a royal blue? And that an ARC shows up in my inbox???
I hope the Cover is a royal blue? And that an ARC shows up in my inbox???
January 12, 2026
Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for the arc!
4.20 stars
I really enjoyed this book! I've loved all the books I've read by India Holton so far, and this was no different. I don't think I've ever read a romance book where they pretend to be enemies despite being best friends, but I thought it was a very fun idea. and it was executed very well! I really loved Amelia and Caleb, and they had a wonderful relationship. I really liked them together, and Caleb is definitely a stage 5 yearner (which I love). The plot was super fun, and the book was pretty fast-paced. Despite being book three of a series, I don't think you really have to read the other two books to understand this one (though it's more fun, because there are references!). Overall, I had a really good time reading this, and I would definitely recommend it, as well as India Holton's other books! :)
4.20 stars
I really enjoyed this book! I've loved all the books I've read by India Holton so far, and this was no different. I don't think I've ever read a romance book where they pretend to be enemies despite being best friends, but I thought it was a very fun idea. and it was executed very well! I really loved Amelia and Caleb, and they had a wonderful relationship. I really liked them together, and Caleb is definitely a stage 5 yearner (which I love). The plot was super fun, and the book was pretty fast-paced. Despite being book three of a series, I don't think you really have to read the other two books to understand this one (though it's more fun, because there are references!). Overall, I had a really good time reading this, and I would definitely recommend it, as well as India Holton's other books! :)
October 31, 2025
okay this was cute!!! on the rare occasions when i actually like friends to lovers, i really like it and this was definitely one of those cases. i thought the main characters were so sweet and funny, which made the story fly by for me. the only downside is more of a personal thing since i’m not really into historical fiction but it was totally worth the read!!
November 24, 2025
everything about this was beautiful. i do not think i have giggled while reading a series like this before. every thing you would expect from a fantasy rom com has been fulfilled, even going above and beyond.
india holton just knows how to balance romance with a worldbuilding that begets a whimsical charm. there was a plot that progressed the romance. the romance on its own was just stunning. caleb and amelia were interesting characters, and they shared a very codependent, i-go-wherever-you-go love and friendship, which was just so much fun to read.
the best friends to lovers trope has always been my most favourite trope, and this is one of the gems this trope offers.
thank you to netgalley and berkley for this ARC!!
india holton just knows how to balance romance with a worldbuilding that begets a whimsical charm. there was a plot that progressed the romance. the romance on its own was just stunning. caleb and amelia were interesting characters, and they shared a very codependent, i-go-wherever-you-go love and friendship, which was just so much fun to read.
the best friends to lovers trope has always been my most favourite trope, and this is one of the gems this trope offers.
thank you to netgalley and berkley for this ARC!!
Want to read
June 4, 2025I can rate this 5 stars and know I won't be rating it lower 🙌🏻
November 12, 2025
This book was every bit as good as I expected it to be but it surprised me by being even better than that. I’m charmed by the unexpectedly wry comparisons which India Holton makes, they often make me chuckle. I also enjoy the author’s use of different formatting for words and phrases to highlight and also convey a different meaning.
Hilton’s creative turn of phrase constantly keeps the reader engaged and on their toes, such as “…she wore a striped dress that didn’t just say I mean business but practically gave a podium speech about it.” There is no boring ‘middle of the book slump’ here!
The story moves along at a brisk pace, keeping the reader engaged and interested to see what happens next. The various magical outbursts sure keep things exciting. I admit that I found the constant ‘forced hate’ interactions a bit wearing after a while. I feel that they could be cut back slightly so they don’t drag the story down. They give the book a farcical feel which is perhaps what Holton wishes to accomplish.
Goodness me but I found Vanity annoying (which is what I expect the author wanted). The secondary characters are broadly drawn, almost as caricatures, which give the book some of its playfulness.
I love the plot twist about Lady Ruperta, it caught me off guard. I had figured out a couple of the red herrings but that one was a surprise.
The smouldering romantic tension between Caleb and Amelia keeps the reader anticipating and breathless throughout the book. The occasional tryst just serves to ratchet up the heat until both the reader and the couple can hardly contain their impatience. What sweet relief when they finally reach that sweet, shimmering peak in that intense scene.
Caleb is funny, charming, oh-so-handsome and also has been head over heels for Amelia since they were children. Who wouldn’t fall under his spell?! I feel like Amelia has more recently discovered her true feelings for Caleb. Her awakening desire is creating tremors, mentally and physically, that astonish and unsettle her, but in a good way.
I was delighted with the cameos of Gabriel and Elodie, Devon and Beth. How entertaining to get a whole scene with all of them interacting together. It’s so fun to be reminded of them and their stories. I always enjoy books that have crossovera seriesories that intertwine.
I love how Holton handles the theme of women’s treatment in academia with her trademark serious humour. She delivers a message but in a witty, amusing manner.
The series has been so enjoyable and this third instalment has really been the best one yet. It is charming, quirky, fun yet delivers a message about women’s experiences in the world. Deftly written, thoroughly diverting and highly recommended.
My thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book and this is my frank review of it.
Hilton’s creative turn of phrase constantly keeps the reader engaged and on their toes, such as “…she wore a striped dress that didn’t just say I mean business but practically gave a podium speech about it.” There is no boring ‘middle of the book slump’ here!
The story moves along at a brisk pace, keeping the reader engaged and interested to see what happens next. The various magical outbursts sure keep things exciting. I admit that I found the constant ‘forced hate’ interactions a bit wearing after a while. I feel that they could be cut back slightly so they don’t drag the story down. They give the book a farcical feel which is perhaps what Holton wishes to accomplish.
Goodness me but I found Vanity annoying (which is what I expect the author wanted). The secondary characters are broadly drawn, almost as caricatures, which give the book some of its playfulness.
I love the plot twist about Lady Ruperta, it caught me off guard. I had figured out a couple of the red herrings but that one was a surprise.
The smouldering romantic tension between Caleb and Amelia keeps the reader anticipating and breathless throughout the book. The occasional tryst just serves to ratchet up the heat until both the reader and the couple can hardly contain their impatience. What sweet relief when they finally reach that sweet, shimmering peak in that intense scene.
Caleb is funny, charming, oh-so-handsome and also has been head over heels for Amelia since they were children. Who wouldn’t fall under his spell?! I feel like Amelia has more recently discovered her true feelings for Caleb. Her awakening desire is creating tremors, mentally and physically, that astonish and unsettle her, but in a good way.
I was delighted with the cameos of Gabriel and Elodie, Devon and Beth. How entertaining to get a whole scene with all of them interacting together. It’s so fun to be reminded of them and their stories. I always enjoy books that have crossovera seriesories that intertwine.
I love how Holton handles the theme of women’s treatment in academia with her trademark serious humour. She delivers a message but in a witty, amusing manner.
The series has been so enjoyable and this third instalment has really been the best one yet. It is charming, quirky, fun yet delivers a message about women’s experiences in the world. Deftly written, thoroughly diverting and highly recommended.
My thanks to Netgalley for an ARC of this book and this is my frank review of it.
November 14, 2025
4.5/5 stars! I have (and always will) read everything India Holton writes. She is my comfort writer. I can always count on her for witty humor and the ability to have me kicking my feet in delight at all hours of the night. She is a master at writing historical rom coms with light fantasy. While the romance in this one wasn’t my favorite, I had such a delightful time with the story. It was such a treat to be whisked away into a world with magical objects. I love the academic aspect that this series has to offer. If you like the academia aspect and dynamic of the characters in the Emily Wilde series, I would highly recommend picking this up when it is out! At times the dynamic between our two main characters reminded me of Wendell and Emily. I really appreciated how self aware this book is and borderline satirical. The entire time Amelia and Caleb spend at the gothic manor felt very much like a satirical gothic novel. (Much to Caleb’s delight) As always, India Holton’s characters are so eccentric and entertaining that they practically leap off the page. Her writing is just as wonderful as always. I so enjoyed the autumnal imagery. As previously mentioned, the romance wasn’t my favorite. I did really love the male main characters/love interest though. I really appreciated how Holton wrote a male character that wasn’t afraid of his feminine side. I wish more authors would create characters like Caleb. At times I kind of got lost in the plot and forgot what exactly Amelia and Caleb’s end goal was. We did get there eventually! Overall, this was just as charming as Holton’s other works. I will be anxiously rereading all her books as I wait for whatever she publishes next.
*Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!*
*Thank you to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review!*
January 16, 2026
The Antiquarian’s Object of Desire is a historical fantasy romcom, infused with ridiculous magic and non stop humor to really enhance the reading experience. It’s witty, academic, terribly romantic, and immensely relevant despite its historical setting.
I would love to witness these characters in India Holton’s mind throughout the writing process. Because they are so clearly defined, that I imagine the scenarios that didn’t make the book would be just as endearing. Caleb has continued to confirm my hypothesis that blonde love interests are just as swoon worthy as their counterparts. Amelia is sensible, but self- aware enough to realize the “why” behind her thoughts and actions. Together, they form the loveliest of best friends (who are absolutely hopeless to resist each other).
This installment of the Love’s Academic series was more gothic meets cosy, and I relished every moment of it. To preserve their academic positions, they must engage in fake hating. Which unfortunately, or comically depending on how you look at it, results in a rather frequent occurrence of magical explosions. Throughout the duration of their field assignment, Caleb and Amelia show true solidarity and emotional intimacy. Which inevitably leads to friends who kiss (my favorite).
This conclusion to the series is probably my favorite! I loved everything about it, and highly recommend picking it up when it releases on April 21, 2026.
Thank you Berkley Romance (via Netgalley) for gifting me with an eARC. All thoughts expressed are my own.
I would love to witness these characters in India Holton’s mind throughout the writing process. Because they are so clearly defined, that I imagine the scenarios that didn’t make the book would be just as endearing. Caleb has continued to confirm my hypothesis that blonde love interests are just as swoon worthy as their counterparts. Amelia is sensible, but self- aware enough to realize the “why” behind her thoughts and actions. Together, they form the loveliest of best friends (who are absolutely hopeless to resist each other).
This installment of the Love’s Academic series was more gothic meets cosy, and I relished every moment of it. To preserve their academic positions, they must engage in fake hating. Which unfortunately, or comically depending on how you look at it, results in a rather frequent occurrence of magical explosions. Throughout the duration of their field assignment, Caleb and Amelia show true solidarity and emotional intimacy. Which inevitably leads to friends who kiss (my favorite).
This conclusion to the series is probably my favorite! I loved everything about it, and highly recommend picking it up when it releases on April 21, 2026.
Thank you Berkley Romance (via Netgalley) for gifting me with an eARC. All thoughts expressed are my own.
December 19, 2025
4.5 Stars.
🗺️ The vibes:
- Best friends
- History professors x2
- Fake hate
- Forbidden romance
- Academia
- Fantasy Rom com
- Book 3 in interconnected standalones
- Open door
🗺️ My thoughts:
There is nothing quite like an India Holton novel. She writes fantasy romcoms like no other. It’s a late Victorian-era England setting but contains fantastical things like magical teaspoons, flying parasols, and rambunctious ghosties.
🗺️ Amelia and Caleb are history professors at Oxford University who must keep their friendship a secret to maintain their reputations amongst their peers. As rumors spark and spread about their relationship, the duo amps up their fake hate which lands them in magical mayhem.
🗺️ I thought this story was charming and humorous as always. There’s heavy innuendo throughout that just makes me giggle. Her writing feels both historical and modern all at the same time, and the mix of heart and humor is just my cup of tea.
🗺️ There were some moments that felt a little bit slow or lagging, but overall I thought this was charming and fun. I will read any and all things that India writes for us.
Note- open door
Release date: April 21, 2026.
Thank you so much to India Holton, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the gifted copy.
🗺️ The vibes:
- Best friends
- History professors x2
- Fake hate
- Forbidden romance
- Academia
- Fantasy Rom com
- Book 3 in interconnected standalones
- Open door
🗺️ My thoughts:
There is nothing quite like an India Holton novel. She writes fantasy romcoms like no other. It’s a late Victorian-era England setting but contains fantastical things like magical teaspoons, flying parasols, and rambunctious ghosties.
🗺️ Amelia and Caleb are history professors at Oxford University who must keep their friendship a secret to maintain their reputations amongst their peers. As rumors spark and spread about their relationship, the duo amps up their fake hate which lands them in magical mayhem.
🗺️ I thought this story was charming and humorous as always. There’s heavy innuendo throughout that just makes me giggle. Her writing feels both historical and modern all at the same time, and the mix of heart and humor is just my cup of tea.
🗺️ There were some moments that felt a little bit slow or lagging, but overall I thought this was charming and fun. I will read any and all things that India writes for us.
Note- open door
Release date: April 21, 2026.
Thank you so much to India Holton, Berkley Publishing Group, and NetGalley for the gifted copy.
October 22, 2025
Cutie patooties
October 14, 2025
Edelweiss arc review: The main characters work extremely well together as a couple. The childhood friends-turned fake rivals have always loved one another secretly. The writing pulls this off really well and makes it both believable and enjoyable. The magical elements are intriguing and the plot makes sense. It's my favorite of the series!
October 12, 2025
India Holton can write romance, there just wasn’t enough of it in this installment for me. I like Caleb and Amelia’s dynamic but it was overshadowed by the plot for most of the book - which meandered at times I’ll still be reading more of her work but this one wasn’t my favorite.
October 26, 2025
I enjoyed this book the most out of the trilogy. Best friends to lovers slow burn with yearning for days is one of my all time favorite combinations, and this one was delivered with a twist: fake hating. The fake enemies trope was a first for me, and it created some fun banter, but after a while you could see the toll it was taking on both MCs. I cried so much for these characters both romantically and professionally. Two PhD history profs that experience academia so differently just because of their difference in gender. Amelia was so relatable, and her struggles in academia were just a mirror of what they still are today for women in male dominated fields. The ending was absolutely perfect. This trilogy was a bit interesting to me in that each book was written as complete standalones, but the last chapter of this final book gave a nice update for all 6 MCs. Aside from that final chapter, the other books’ storylines don’t overlap, so there’s no need to read the whole series if you don’t want to, but I would say that as the series progressed, I got more comfortable with the setting and the fantasy aspect of the books. I’m not a fantasy reader though, so maybe that wouldn’t impact everyone like it did for me. This book was well written, had an excellent plot and character development, and incredibly light spice.
Read
January 11, 2026Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an arc of this book!
My Ranking: this was fun!
My favorite installment in this series! When it comes to romance in books, friends to lovers is definitely my preferred trope. I enjoyed, not only the romantic tension and yearning between our two main characters, but also the friendship they had and that (thankfully) continued on into the relationship they developed later in the book. I’m glad that the attraction they felt didn’t overtake their genuine care and love for each other as people. I also enjoyed the cameos we got from previous installments at the end of this book! The author did a great job bringing all the characters together and allowing the series to have some finality (I believe this is the last installment?). All-in-all another silly, goofy, romantic time that I enjoyed reading. Although the plot was a little less evident in this installment, that didn’t take away from my enjoyment since I usually read these books for the characters and relationships anyway.
My Ranking: this was fun!
My favorite installment in this series! When it comes to romance in books, friends to lovers is definitely my preferred trope. I enjoyed, not only the romantic tension and yearning between our two main characters, but also the friendship they had and that (thankfully) continued on into the relationship they developed later in the book. I’m glad that the attraction they felt didn’t overtake their genuine care and love for each other as people. I also enjoyed the cameos we got from previous installments at the end of this book! The author did a great job bringing all the characters together and allowing the series to have some finality (I believe this is the last installment?). All-in-all another silly, goofy, romantic time that I enjoyed reading. Although the plot was a little less evident in this installment, that didn’t take away from my enjoyment since I usually read these books for the characters and relationships anyway.
November 23, 2025
I absolutely DEVOURED this magnificent book! Friends to fake enemies to lovers, I mean COME ON. I seriously love everything India Holton writes. This story was hilarious and heartbreaking and sometimes hit wayyyyy too close to home. But it was a fantastic and lighthearted story of friends who have loved each other from the start and just took a while to admit it. I also love the kookie magical historical objects that we get to see along the way.
If you love historical rom-coms with a dose of magic, you will absolutely love this book. If you want more of a sci-fi with academic rivals, I wouldn’t necessarily choose this one. There is definitely more yearning than scientific discovery.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this amazing story!
If you love historical rom-coms with a dose of magic, you will absolutely love this book. If you want more of a sci-fi with academic rivals, I wouldn’t necessarily choose this one. There is definitely more yearning than scientific discovery.
Thank you to Berkley Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this amazing story!
November 10, 2025
SHAMELESSLY CO DEPENDENT LOVERS (BEST FRIENDS) ARE SO BACK!!!!!!!!!!
OMG okay i need to chill a bit whew. there's nothing more iconic and romantic than best friends to lovers and I'll die on this hill once again. calebamelia have my whole heart and they're right up there now as my favourite india holton couple. I absolutely FLEW through this book. I have so much more to say but I need to collect my thoughts for it so I'll leave it at that for now
thank you sooooo much to berkley and netgalley for this arc and I'm really looking forward to how different wishspun would be from the typical india holton books🤓
OMG okay i need to chill a bit whew. there's nothing more iconic and romantic than best friends to lovers and I'll die on this hill once again. calebamelia have my whole heart and they're right up there now as my favourite india holton couple. I absolutely FLEW through this book. I have so much more to say but I need to collect my thoughts for it so I'll leave it at that for now
thank you sooooo much to berkley and netgalley for this arc and I'm really looking forward to how different wishspun would be from the typical india holton books🤓
October 15, 2025
I have the absolute best time reading everything India Holton writes. The nuance and humor in each line/word/look is enough to force me to savor her words. Taylor Swift’s “Ruin the Friendship” was on repeat in my head while reading this one. I love Caleb and Amelia so much, and I loved watching them adventure through a world of magical teaspoons with a mind of their own, misogynistic male superiors, and the forever respite they have in one another. Such a joy and such a lovely world to escape to.
Thanks to Berkley and Edelweiss for the ARC!
Thanks to Berkley and Edelweiss for the ARC!
Want to read
October 8, 2025i want to thank god and also jesus christ for the arc
November 24, 2025
Beth and Devon cameo my heart 🤎
Want to read
January 8, 2026ARC received! I'm so excited for this one :)
December 27, 2025
Many, many, many thanks to NetGalley and Berkeley Publishing Group for the eARC. My opinions are my own.
First, I love India Holton so much. She brings together educated humor, banter, feels, and just the right amount of bonkers. I was so, so excited to receive the eARC of her next book, and it did not disappoint.
Amelia Tarrant and Caleb Sterling have been best friends forever and are now both antiquarian professors at Oxford. Because of (1) misogyny and (2) the strictures of the day, they’ve had to pretend to hate each other for Amelia to keep her job. When they’re sent on a special project, their real feelings for each other become hard to ignore. So does all the exploding magic and disappearance of magical items.
My favorite trope: friends to lovers = swoon. 😍🥰😍🥰
Pre-order now for April 2026 release. (Just in time for Independent Bookstore Day!!)
First, I love India Holton so much. She brings together educated humor, banter, feels, and just the right amount of bonkers. I was so, so excited to receive the eARC of her next book, and it did not disappoint.
Amelia Tarrant and Caleb Sterling have been best friends forever and are now both antiquarian professors at Oxford. Because of (1) misogyny and (2) the strictures of the day, they’ve had to pretend to hate each other for Amelia to keep her job. When they’re sent on a special project, their real feelings for each other become hard to ignore. So does all the exploding magic and disappearance of magical items.
My favorite trope: friends to lovers = swoon. 😍🥰😍🥰
Pre-order now for April 2026 release. (Just in time for Independent Bookstore Day!!)
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