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Love’s Journey #4

Beneath a Brighton Sun

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“You’re imagining me in my bathing costume,” he said with irritating accuracy.

A LADY OF SCIENCE
Bluestocking Eloise Corbyn has always dreamed of recognition for her geological discoveries, but the scientific world isn’t ready to accept a woman’s theories—yet. With her latest geological research demanding perfection, she can ill afford distractions. But when her father requests she entertain his long-time protégé during a seaside fossil hunting party, she cannot resist—despite their sharp-tongued rivalry.

A MAN OF AMBITION
Land speculator Archer Vale has spent years building his fortune, determined to rise above his questionable origins. With plans for a fashionable hotel on England’s southern shore, he’s nearly attained the place in society he’s always craved. He has no time for a holiday, but when his mentor asks him to escort the man’s daughter to a fossil hunting party, he resigns himself to the task. After all, he owes Harry Corbyn everything.

WHAT LIES BENEATH IS DEEPER THAN BEDROCK
Archer and Eloise’s familiar sparring soon gives way to stolen moments during seaside strolls and fossil digs. Against the dramatic backdrop of Brighton’s windswept cliffs and fashionable promenades, they unearth a love that threatens everything they’ve worked to achieve. But when Eloise’s scientific dreams collide with Archer’s ambitions, each must choose what matters most. Will Eloise sacrifice her chance at recognition to protect the man she’s always loved? And will he abandon his ambitions to preserve the discoveries that mean everything to her?

A captivating romance perfect for readers who love intelligent heroines, reluctant heroes, snarky banter and the Victorian grandeur of a seaside holiday. This full-length enemies-to-more novel is the fourth installment in the Love’s Journey series. Each book stands alone, but many readers prefer to enjoy them in order.

404 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2025

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About the author

K. Lyn Smith

20 books69 followers
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ABOUT K. LYN
K. Lyn Smith’s heart resides in Birmingham, Alabama, where she writes sweet historical romance about ordinary people finding extraordinary love. Her debut novel, The Astronomer’s Obsession, was a finalist for the National Excellence in Romantic Fiction Award, and many of her other titles have been shortlisted for honours such as the American Writing Award, the Carolyn Reader’s Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion and the Maggie Award.

When she’s not lost in the pages of a book, you can find her with family, traveling to far-off places and bingeing period dramas. And space documentaries. Weird, right?

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
Profile Image for Leigh | The Naptime Library.
53 reviews5 followers
September 18, 2025
Absolutely delightful! This story was incredibly enjoyable to read! I’m already a huge fan of K. Lyn Smith’s books, having read 13 of her books, including this one - this is now one of my favorites from among them. I absolutely recommend it for those who enjoy well-researched historical fiction with a kisses-only yet swoony romance, hilarious banter, fun side characters, and an emphasis on science.

The storytelling is wonderful, and the descriptive writing is lovely. K. Lyn utilizes dual points of view (with a brief third POV added in for fun!) and hops to several points in the characters’ histories. The time hops blend seamlessly into the rest of the story and give us necessary insight into our main characters – Archer and Eloise. Archer and Eloise are such good characters and perfect for each other! Their conversations are both hilarious and deep. Their longstanding friendship (and annoyance of each other!) gives depth to their love.

One of my favorite things about K. Lyn’s books is the history incorporated into each one. Beneath a Brighton Sun is centered around fossil hunting and geology. It is fascinating and so well researched. The historical notes at the end are worth a read, too.

Some favorite moments – returning to familiar characters, a family member playing matchmaker, the bathing costume conversation, the cave, the walk under the stars, Archer’s knowledge of Eloise’s favorites, and the ending!

I received an advance review copy from the author (thank you, K. Lyn!), and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Regency_Fan_ Michelle RegencyFanMichelleAndMore.
629 reviews15 followers
October 19, 2025
A Sweet Romance with so much more!

K. Lyn Smith's "Beneath a Brighton Sun" is a delightful historical romance, featuring a strong-willed heroine, Eloise, and an engaging love story. Eloise, a brilliant geologist, is characterized by her courage and determination to challenge societal norms, advocate for her beliefs, and receive recognition for her groundbreaking research. Archer, with equal determination, strives to overcome his somber past and become a prosperous landowner. Their relationship evolves from childhood friends and adversaries to a more profound connection. The novel is meticulously researched and historically accurate, addressing women's issues and courtroom drama, making it a must-read for enthusiasts of sweet historical romance. The narrative is bursting with romance, humor, and engaging repartee. This book and series are integral reading for anyone who loves historical romance infused with a touch of sweetness and humor. The historical notes at the end are fascinating.
1,306 reviews13 followers
September 28, 2025
I really enjoyed the story. The author has a great talent of making the characters jump off the page. She also is good at researching historical finds from that timeframe. The story begins with a young boy whose mother passed away and his father is in trouble with the law, so he drops his son off at a foundling home. It is a touching, pull at your heart strings story. The boy reinvents himself and takes on the name of Archer. You find out later in the story what is behind the name change. A gentleman, Mr. Corbin has been coming to the home to help the boys with their studies. But one day he brings his daughter Eloise. This is the first meet up of Archer and Eloise, as their indifferent friendship begins. The story picks up 19 years later with Archer and Eloise still reserved around each other..
The story pulls you in from the beginning and holds on till the very end. I love the development and growth of the characters throughout the book and the storyline is interesting and intriguing. It is a clean, wholesome historical romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
975 reviews5 followers
August 27, 2025
What a wonderful way to “complete” a family series. Both Love’s Journey and Something Wonderful are full of amazing stories of a family that face life’s trials with perseverance and determination.

I have enjoyed the characters in each separate story and this one did not disappoint.

I loved how both the hero and heroine are faced with challenges they face by society’s standards . They may have been different in ways but just as limiting.

The growth that both characters had was inspiring and the discovery of their respective strengths made for a lovely romance.

I highly recommend the book, author, and both series!

I received an ARC copy of the book and all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Millie Bowker.
63 reviews1 follower
September 7, 2025
A charming mix of science, romance, and wit. I loved the fossil hunting element, the slow-burn relationship between Eloise and Archer, and the sparkle Felicity brought to the story!!

I really enjoyed the Brighton location & house party vibes - felt like a nice change compared to the usual London based ballroom!

Thank you to K Lyn Smith & Booksirens for the early copy! All opinions are my own🤍
Profile Image for K. Lyn Smith.
Author 20 books69 followers
Currently reading
August 25, 2025
Eloise Corbyn and Archer Vale meet the world Sep 30! Beneath a Brighton Sun features Eloise, the last of the Corbyn siblings, and Archer, her father's long-time protégé.

Eloise and Archer have lots of fun vibes, and when you pair a passionate fossil huntress with an ambitious land speculator, what could possibly go wrong? 😉

If you enjoy

❤️Intelligent heroines
❤️Orphaned heroes
❤️Brighton, summer, seaside, and holidays
❤️Snarky banter
❤️Masquerade kisses 😘
❤️Fossils
❤️Found families

I think you'll like this one.
Profile Image for Emma | meadowroselibrary.
220 reviews29 followers
January 20, 2026
This is a beautiful victorian romance! I loved the start of the story, and the ending was so sweet, I would just say personally that it kinda lagged and I lost my interest in it for a little bit. But besides that, very enjoyable, and lots of sweet, slow burn romance and history!

I really enjoy it when the couple gets a second chance. When they know deep down they care about each other, and fight to hide it. (And it comes out as enemies 😅)

If you enjoy lots of fossil history and caves, this is a good one for that as well! This is a closed-door, no spice sweet victorian romance that I would definitely recommend! 🩷

*I received a paperback ARC copy, all opinions are my own
Profile Image for Ifeanyi Omoike.
81 reviews3 followers
August 30, 2025
Set against the windswept cliffs and glittering promenades of Brighton, Beneath a Brighton Sun captured me from the very first pages with its intelligent heroine, ambitious hero, and their sharp-tongued chemistry. K. Lyn Smith has created a story that not only entertains but also lingers with deeper reflections on ambition, worth, and the courage to define one’s own path.

Eloise Corbyn was a standout for me. I loved her sharp tongue—one line that made me smile was, “Come, Archer. There’s no need to wrap the truth in cotton.” That single sentence summed her up: direct, brilliant, and unwilling to hide behind convention. Her intelligence and ambition shone through every scene, and what struck me most was her hunger to see her geological findings taken seriously in a world that dismissed women’s voices. Though she was very much “Daddy’s girl,” she was never spoiled—something I found both refreshing and rare. It speaks volumes of the thoughtful way her father, Harry Corbyn, raised her.

Harry himself was a wonderfully layered character, and I was touched by how he took an interest in Archer as a boy. Despite Archer not being his biological son and even with the shadow of theft over Archer’s father, Harry raised him with care and dignity. That choice shaped much of Archer’s journey and revealed Harry’s generosity of spirit.

Archer, in turn, impressed me with his determination to succeed against the odds. His rise surprised everyone around him, but what resonated most was his eventual realization—echoing Harry’s wisdom—that you are defined by what you make of yourself, not by what others think or the figures in your bank account. This truth struck me deeply, reminding me that our self-worth should never rest in the hands of others nor be dictated by society’s narrow expectations.

What I especially appreciated was how both Archer and Eloise were bound by societal standards at the start, yet found the courage to push past them. Their transformation was inspiring and heartening, proving that true success lies in living authentically. Their romance unfolded with wit, sparks, and an undercurrent of respect that made their eventual union feel earned and deeply satisfying.

Another highlight was the rich geological detail. K. Lyn Smith clearly did her research, but rather than weighing the story down, the discoveries felt alive and immersive. The fossil hunts and seaside explorations were written with such vividness that I often felt like I was there, brushing away the earth and uncovering history alongside them.

In all, this was a difficult book to critique because the character arcs were so well developed, the family dynamics on both sides were layered and believable, and the ending brought everything together beautifully. A moving story of ambition, resilience, and love that felt both historically grounded and timeless.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,554 reviews176 followers
October 4, 2025
Absolutely delightful! Beneath a Brighton Sun’s a new favorite from K. Lyn Smith. Witty banter, an enemies to more romance, & an engaging fossil hunting premise made this story a wonderful treat to read. I fell in love with Archer & Eloise & their deliciously challenging relationship with swoony undercurrents throughout. I was eagerly turning the pages to see if these two childhood rivals would finally admit their love.

Bluestocking Eloise Corbyn dreams of having her scientific papers published under her real name. Her geological discoveries are inspiring, yet because she’s a woman, she’s forced to submit her findings under an assumed name. Her latest fossil hunting adventure is in Brighton, but unfortunately, her father’s requested his protege, Archer Vale to accompany her & her friend. Their intense childhood rivalry has continued through the years, but an unexpected kiss has Eloise wondering if there could be more.

Archer Vale’s a successful land speculator who sees the area where they’ll be hunting for fossils as prime real estate for his fashionable hotel. Growing up as a virtual orphan, he’s determined to prove himself, especially to Eloise & her father, his mentor. Accompanying his sharp tongued rival on this adventure is not something he’d planned on, but couldn’t refuse. As he & Eloise spend time together & discover a significant fossil, he must wrestle with his desire to build his hotel over the wishes of Eloise, who’s captured his heart.

I thoroughly loved this story! The back & forth witty banter was absolutely amazing. I found myself laughing at the intelligent, quick wit of these two lovable characters. Underneath the rivalry is a sizzling attraction. I couldn’t wait to see their relationship grow from enemies to more. Loved the masquerade kiss & cave scene!

The story’s premise completely drew me in. The author’s impeccable research really shines & I loved reading about Eloise’s fossil finds. There’re several tangles involving the hotel plans & Eloise’s research & I enjoyed seeing Archer & Eloise navigate their way through. The side characters are fabulous as well.

Highly recommend! I received an advanced copy from the author with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.
Profile Image for Auriette.
86 reviews6 followers
September 14, 2025
A scientist’s children are bound to grow up with endless curiosity and a desire to understand the world around them, even in an age where recognized science is a boys-only club.

Eloise Corbyn, daughter of respected astronomer Harry Corbyn, is a geologist and paleontologist, patiently mapping out layers of earth and extricating the ancient bones buried there. She has a theory about coastal England, but the only way she can get her ideas in front of other specialists is to submit her papers under a false – male – name.

Archer Vale, the Corbyns’ adopted son, once shared Eloise’s passion for geology, but an incident at university changed the course of his life. He excels at buying and selling land, and he’s acquired a potentially valuable seaside property, with plans to share in the development. The deal will make him rich and give him respectability.

Matchmaking dad Harry ensures the pair will spend two weeks together, hunting fossils on the very land that Archer plans to develop. Let the fireworks begin.

K. Lyn Smith weaves a spiderweb of deception, thrills, romance, and revelation. We know Eloise and Archer will get together in the end, but it’s fascinating to watch them dance around each other. Despite nearly a lifetime together, they still have much to learn about each other, and their discoveries are revealed bit by bit – rather like chipping away at a fossil long buried in the cliffs near Brighton.

I enjoyed reading about geology and paleontology in the early Victorian era. It was also interesting to learn more about the process of publication in a scientific journal in those days. We also get a glimpse at social life and attractions in the popular beachside community. Eloise and Archer’s best friends provide a bit of comic relief and provide prodding, when needed, to get these two together.

I’ve loved the whole Love’s Journey series, following the children of Harry and Celeste, from Smith’s earlier Something Wonderful series. The books will stand alone, although I can attest to the fun of reading them all, start to finish.

I received a complimentary electronic copy of the novel in advance of publication; all opinions expressed here are my own.
Profile Image for Lou.
80 reviews
September 24, 2025
“Beneath a Brighton Sun” is Book 4 in K Lyn Smith’s wonderful series : Love’s Journey.

The character development is superb, with multi-dimensional characters who grow throughout their story . Eloise is a strong heroine, she is a brilliant geologist, brave and determined to challenge societal norms and fight for her beliefs, to receive recognition for her groundbreaking research.
Archer is also determined to rise above his somber past and become a rich landowner.
The emotional depth shines, offering genuine moments in the characters' journey to love and happiness. I love Eloise and Archer’s prickly relationship. They have been antagonists for half their lives. The interactions between them are fantastic. Their love shines through all the arguments, the teasing and the witty banter.

The well-researched historical context adds richness to the narrative.
One of the things about K. Lyn Smith’s books is the history she always incorporates into each one. “ Beneath a Brighton Sun” is centered around fossil hunting and geology. The book is well-written, nicely researched and historically accurate. The historical notes at the end are fascinating.

The story is charming, with wonderful supporting characters that add depth and warmth, especially Felicity, Eloise’s friend and Oliver, Archer’s friend. It is fun to see characters from previous books in the series. A special mention to Harry Corbyn, a special father and mentor.

This book is a captivating and heartwarming read. The Setting of Brighton adds unique charm and depth to the story , making this a delightful read for fans of sweet historical romance with well-developed characters and engaging plots.

I always enjoy reading a book by K.Lyn Smith. Her writing style is simply perfect. Her stories are full of romance, humor and banter. And “Beneath a Brighton Sun “ is no exception.
I highly recommend this book and the whole series for all lovers of sweet fun historical romance.
393 reviews
October 7, 2025
The protagonists are wonderfully complex characters.

Archer Vale, abandoned while a child by his criminal father (who unsuccessfully avoided the long arm of the law) is a serious, astute businessman in Victorian London. He is determined to make a success of his life and gain the acceptance he craves from Society. No one observing him would guess the fears that lurk in his soul—particularly the fear of loving and being loved. He accepts a request from his mentor, Mr. Corbyn to escort his daughter Eloise to Brighton for a fossil party sponsored by Lady Turnley.

Eloise is a brilliant geologist, but because she is a woman, she must publish her papers as Elliot Curry--which galls her. She is as determined as Archer to be recognized in her field and to be published in her own name. She resents Archer playing nursemaid to her fossil hunting but at the same time wants him to declare himself.

Each tries to protect and promote the other—not always with the consent of the other party.

Their intertwined lives move the story briskly, but I have two issues, which explains my 4-star rating.

First: I personally don’t care for prologues, and while the prologue in this novel features an incident that occurred in Eloise’s and Archer’s childhood, I am unconvinced of the necessity of its inclusion.

Second: I don’t claim to have expertise in Victorian English jurisprudence, but the courtroom scene struck me as unrealistic. As a retired American lawyer, I cannot imagine the broad bending of courtroom protocol portrayed. On the other hand, I highly enjoyed it.

This is a clean romance developed around Victorian “fossil fever” and delineates the subordinate role of women, many of whom were chaffing under the unfair disparagement of their intellectual pursuits. The author’s end notes provide additional perspective and offer resources for the reader’s own “fossil fever” exploration.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,013 reviews33 followers
September 30, 2025
Eloise's plans for a happy fossil-hunting house-party are dimmed when her father insists her childhood nemesis Archer escorts her and asks her to try to help the too-serious investor recall the joy of life. And Archer, coerced to go along 'to keep her safe' isn't thrilled either, though he'd go to even greater lengths to keep her safe from the man he fears is about to woo her again. Worse, he's having to hide the fact that it's his fault that the fossil bed she's so happily hunting in is about to have a hotel built on it. Spending time together gradually enables them to move past their long-continued minor feud, but will it be enough when their secrets come to light and their pasts catch up with them?

A thoroughly enjoyable read with the unusual (but intriguing) setting of a fossil hunt. I know little about fossils and it's not something that has ever particularly interested me, but the joy of searching for something and finally finding it? That I can definitely relate to. Toss in a romance between two people who are convinced they don't get along but somehow can't deny the invisible tie between them, as well as a villain to unintentionally throw them together, and you've got the makings of a great story. Add in Archer's difficult past and the struggles Eloise faces trying to be taken seriously as a female researcher, and it seals the deal. A great read, and I'm looking forward to seeing what the author writes next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
322 reviews10 followers
September 9, 2025
A thoroughly entertaining tale, K. Lyn Smith's "Beneath a Brighton Sun" features the last of Harry Corbyn's unattached children and his ward. While Eloise Corbyn is cheerful, friendly, and devoted to fossil collecting, Archer Vale is somber, driven, and determined to be a respected land speculator.

As always, Smith's characters come to life. At a time when women were still not taken seriously as scholars of science, mathematics or anything remotely intellectual, Eloise does not adhere to society's dictates. Archer Vale in particular is multi-faceted. His incredibly moving and sad backstory makes him who he WAS. With more than a guiding hand, Harry Corbyn helps makes him who he IS. Secondary characters are interesting, as well. Eloise's friend Felicity and Archer's friend Oliver are charming companions. Both Norton Pryce and Kit Vale are unlikeable antagonists. Imagery is vivid; the fossil hunting itself is intriguing. In addition, science cleverly saves the day!

The author's prose is a delight. She injects plenty of humor into this story, and banter is clever and witty. There is no graphic content. This is the final installment of the series. I try to read series in order, and I did so here. I look forward to K. Lyn Smith's next work.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,445 reviews
October 3, 2025
Eloise Corbyn is a bluestocking whose geological discoveries deserve recognition in a world not yet ready to accept a woman’s theories. Her father’s request that she entertain his protégé, Archer Vale, pulls her into an unexpected clash of ambition, loyalty, and love. Eloise and Archer’s sharp-tongued sparring quickly softens into something far deeper as they spend time together in Brighton. Together they explore the cliffs and dig for fossils. There they discover the bond that they share.
What makes this story shine is the way the romance unfolds naturally from their shared history, while Eloise’s father plays an important and touching role in their journey. The seaside setting, with its promenades and fossil-hunting excursions, adds a vivid sense of place that makes the romance all the more atmospheric. This is a beautifully written, heartfelt story with characters who linger in the mind long after the last page. I really loved this addition to the story of the Corbyn family. K. Lyn Smith is one of my favourite authors, as she manages to weave together a heartfelt romance with strong and engaging characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
151 reviews1 follower
September 16, 2025
Archer and Eloise were delightful when they finally emerged as a couple, but it seemed to take so long to do so. Having known each other since childhood, it was surprising how long it took to get past their misconceptions of each other and realize the depth of their feelings. Archer’s determination to succeed, in spite of being abandoned as a child by his criminal father, was commendable and thanks, in a large part, to the kindness of Eloise’s father. Eloise is wrapped up in her scientific studies, and I enjoyed the historical component of the popularity of fossil hunting parties of the time. Neither feels totally accepted by society, Archer, because of his background, and Eloise’s desires to succeed in a male dominated scientific world, but together they make an indomitable pair. The author did her research and I enjoyed her author’s notes at the end. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,593 reviews22 followers
October 5, 2025
Veery well written, full of society, mystery, intrigue, secrets, family, adventures, surprises and rock hunting. Eloise is the daughter of a scholar, who likes to find fossils and writing up articles for publications. But as she is a woman she uses another name as she would be blocked for the fact of being a woman. Archer is a young man , who came to live with her family when his father is arrested and shipped away. When Archer is asked to accompany Eloise to a dig party, Archer accepts. It's there both of their pasts follow them. Eloise has an male friend shows up after being away for a dig for 2 years. Archer has his father return looking for money. Archer also has a secret that where the dig is, he owns the land and wants to build a hotel. Eloise and Archer need to be honest with each other before they can get their happily ever after. Great read that keeps you turning the pages. Would strongly recommend.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.
250 reviews5 followers
October 15, 2025
I love K. Lynn Smith’s books. They’re sweet, witty and oh, so romantic. Beneath a Brighton Sun is no exception. In this book, Eloise Corbyn is frustrated that she can’t present her geological research papers to the Scientific Academy because she’s a woman.

Archer Vale used to love scientific things, inspired as he was by his mentor, Harry Corbyn. Now, however, he’s put aside such childish things in the pursuit of money and a place in society. Archer grew up in an orphanage and has spent his life trying to be accepted in society.

When Harry asks him to accompany Eloise on a fossil hunting party, Archer reluctantly accepts. He’d do anything for Harry, who was like a father to him as he was growing up. He just wished he didn’t have to deal with Harry’s irrepressible and confounding daughter.

Will the time they spend together in Brighton bring them closer together, or will the past and his plans for the future tear them apart?
Profile Image for Liz.
734 reviews27 followers
September 10, 2025
I have a habit of finishing K. Lyn Smith’s books and thinking, “This is her best one yet!” Eloise and Archer’s story sure reinforced this pattern for me. I enjoyed the competition and banter between these two over-achievers as they struggle to find their place in the world. Neither feels accepted due to circumstances beyond their control from birth (gender and class, respectively). More than once I found myself wishing they would pull together rather than apart, especially when their opposing plans collide over a piece of real estate. Their fathers couldn’t be more sharply contrasted; I love that Corbyn empowered Archer with a new name, but gave his daughter courage to use her own. All around, a beautiful romance and satisfying addition to this great series. I received a free advance copy of this book and was not required to post a review.
Profile Image for Tales Untangled.
1,186 reviews24 followers
October 8, 2025
BENEATH A BRIGHTON SUN is a delightful Victorian romance with all the vibes I want in a historical novel plus science!

Genre: Sweet Romance, Proper Romance, Historical Romance
Spice Level: Kissing
Format: Multiple POVs (handled well and easy to follow)
Readability: This is book four, but these are more companion novels and do not need to be read in order. However, you will want to read all of them.

Childhood annoyances can turn to love under the right pressures. In this case, the right pressures include geological information and fossils. (I cannot imagine what an exciting time it was when so many new fossils were being found.)

Archer and Eloise are great foils for one another. Even though they grew up together, there are misunderstandings and misconceptions. I thought this was handled well. They must consider class and family secrets, clear up why they pestered each other, and admit to themselves how their attitudes are changing. It's a great dance of push and pull, unraveling and rewinding history.

I've read several books by this author, and I will continue to read anything she has written. This one gets a great big smiley face in my personal notes.

Happy reading!
Profile Image for Rosanne Lortz.
Author 28 books217 followers
September 8, 2025
Eloise Corbyn and Archer Vale have been antagonists for half a lifetime. But neither can forget the shared kiss at a masquerade ball two years ago. When Eloise’s newest fossil excavation site is threatened by one of Archer’s pending business deals, he must choose whether to save his pocketbook and reputation or support Eloise’s dream.

I loved Eloise and Archer’s prickly relationship. His astonishing concession that she “would not be hard to love” is the stuff of swoon-worthy slow burn romance. The historical component about the Victorian fossil craze added interest to the story, and of course, the cover is absolutely gorgeous.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
187 reviews1 follower
September 22, 2025
I really enjoy K Lyn Smith's writing. These clean historic romances are a delight and Beneath a Brighton Sun is a great addition. The two main characters have known each other since childhood, but are not friendly. I wouldn't call this enemies to lovers but friends to lovers. The FMC Eloise is a geologist and her father a famous astronomer who fully supports his daughter's work. She writes scientific papers under a pseudonym. The MMC Archer was taken in when he was a boy by Eloise's father and given an education. They are brought together in Brighton because Eloise's father asks Archer to look after Eloise while she's there at a fossil hunting house party. This was a delightful story and well researched. I received an advance review copy and this is my honest voluntary review
Profile Image for Cajsa.
312 reviews1 follower
November 23, 2025
Once again K Lyn Smith writes a fun, historical romance with great characters and a bit of witty banter. Archer is taken in by Eloise Corbyn’s father when he was younger. Right off the bat there’s a bit of a love-I can’t stand you, kind of relationship. Archer “chaperones” Eloise and her dear friend Felicity, on a fossil hunt to Brighton, as a favor for Eloise’s father. He also has business of his own to pursue while there. In Brighton their feelings for one another finally come to a head.

This author just does her characters right. They’re not perfect, they have flaws but are always willing to see them for what they are and do better.

I love reading her books and will continue to recommend them.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Carolina CHC.
322 reviews6 followers
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September 5, 2025
This was a very sweet and engaging story. What I especially appreciated is that, unlike many Regency romances I’ve read lately—which seem to lean heavily on modern romcom tropes (brother’s best friend, enemies to lovers, and so on) while neglecting the era’s rich historical setting—this book actually felt grounded in its time.
The story itself was charming, with wonderful supporting characters that added depth and warmth. I personally loved it and found it refreshing compared to the more modernized takes on Regency romance.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for MEF.
398 reviews3 followers
August 30, 2025
I was charmed by the story of Archer and Eloise, their characters were nicely developed and the I got a real sense of the social background of the time. I might even have been interested in fossil hunting!

It’s a kisses only romance , just two if I counted right so if you like a clean historical romance with good social observations, a bit of a swipe at the restrictions suffered by women and two like minds eventually finding each other - then you will love this book!

I received and advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily. It is my honest opinion.
2,604 reviews45 followers
September 2, 2025
This was a beguiling tale of the push and pull until it's just the pull of love. Archer and Eloise were childhood friends, but years later Eloise is skeptical and very critical of Archer. As they spend more time together, he surprises her with small gestures and she finds her feelings for Archer have changed. He was her personal hero in many scenes. How could she not see and feel it? My favorite moment was when a cheater is unveiled as such. See the lengths Archer goes to for Eloise. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
Profile Image for Delphia  Von Heeder .
1,747 reviews53 followers
September 6, 2025
Beneath a Brighton Sun is Book 4 in the Love's Journey by K Lyn Smith. I enjoy historical England. Since the time period is 1852, I believe that the story is set after the Regency period, but, there are still many rules and women do not have much power. Eloise met Archer when she was 6 and he was 10. She irritated him at 6 and things aren't much better when she sees him again in her mid 20s. Where flames shoot up can love be around the corner? Make a cup of tea and relax with a wonderful story. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
248 reviews3 followers
January 9, 2026
well written and clean

I enjoyed the story very much. It was fun to watch the H and h recognize their live for one another. A fun backdrop worth the fossil expeditions.

My only frustration wasi didn't feel it was clear the court case was ended. The judge have them 3 days to check the evidence, but we never heard later the outcome. Also what happened to Archer's father after that? I felt that just kind of got dropped without full resolution.

But aside from that it was a great story and fleshed out well.
451 reviews3 followers
September 9, 2025
Bravo! Another’s delightful romance featuring a brilliant female geologist who has to be brave, clever and determined to receive recognition for her groundbreaking research. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The characters Eloise and Archer are well developed and believable. Both learn to overcome their weaknesses as they build on their strengths and develop a more honest relationship with each other.
659 reviews11 followers
September 9, 2025
This is a well written clean sweet love story with good character development. If you love geology you will love this story even more. I liked the story better after the main characters stopped acting liked they didn't like each other. There was some drama, but it wasn't drawn out too much. I liked the ending.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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