Loving Lady Lilac

The Dowager's Garden #2

by Sariah Drake

She thought her scars made her unlovable. He was determined to prove her wrong.

Eleanor Stanton has hidden in the shadows for two years, convinced the brutal attack that killed her brother and scarred her face has made her unworthy of love. When her father's failing health threatens to destroy her family, Eleanor must face the ton that whispers behind fans at her disfigurement.

Enter Elias Yates, Duke of Gainsbury—the only man who sees past her scars to the fierce woman beneath. His shocking acceptance awakens dreams Eleanor thought buried forever. But as she falls deeper under his spell, she discovers the perfect duke harbors dangerous secrets of his own.

When Eleanor uncovers what Elias does after midnight, their fairy-tale romance shatters. Now, with deadly enemies from her past closing in, she must return to the shadows or trust a man whose every kindness might have been a lie.

A swoon-worthy closed-door Regency where a scarred heroine and a duke with secrets prove that true love sees beyond appearances.

Book 2 in The Dowager's Garden series. Each book is a complete standalone with its own happily ever after.

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

286 pages, Paperback

First published July 30, 2025

Reviews

[Dab · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s something special about a scarred heroine and a hero who can see past it. And I don’t only mean that he accepts her scarred face, but also her ruined self-esteem and the mental health struggles that come with it.

Eleanor was attacked two years ago in a dark alley. The attacker killed her brother and badly injured her face. She’s been hiding away ever since, but a party invitation changes everything — including reacquainting her with her late brother’s friend, Elias, the Duke of Gainsbury.

This story was far more complex and action-packed than you would expect from a clean romance. There’s intrigue and mystery; there are secrets and betrayals — enough to keep me glued to the pages for the last 24 hours.

As fast-paced as this story was, the writing remained gentle and soothing, very much fitting the era and the genre, which worked very well for me.

I docked a star because some of Eleanor’s decisions were extremely frustrating, but otherwise I really enjoyed this book and will definitely read more from this author.

[Callie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

I didn’t know what to expect and I ended up really enjoying this one!

It hit the spot of being in the mood for a historical setting.

I really liked the heroine, Eleanor. She has a lot thrown at her - her brother dying, being scarred and losing an eye, other deaths, society harshly judging her. But she still managed to look for joy and take charge of her own fate for a little while.

This could’ve been a five star for me but a few things weren’t perfect. I don’t know if I can put my finger on it. One of them was that revelations about the hero came out and I wasn’t sure if there was sufficient grovel. A lot happens, and I just wanted way more of him explaining to her and working to get back into her good graces but it’s overshadowed by other events.

Other than that, I liked the setting, the strong heroine, and the little twists in the story!

Safety:
Triggers: familial death, attack by knife, other violence but not too gory
Romance wise: closed door, just kisses. Hero was engaged before and I wanted more detail!! Did he love her? I don’t think so. I think she may have been a character from another book and I missed something but I couldn’t believe Eleanor didn’t ask a single question about it??

[Emma | meadowroselibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙤 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙮, 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙞𝙙. 𝙎𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙖𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙛𝙪𝙡 . . . 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙙𝙤 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙮 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙙𝙨. 𝙄 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙞𝙩. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙩𝙝, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡.”

I finished this book last week, and I'm still struggling to find the words for my review, it was just so incredible, and SO deep!

I wasn't expecting the mystery and battles the characters would go through - present and from the past. Eleanor was such an inspiring person, someone to truly learn from and strive to be like. She literally lives behind a mask, and she still fought past that, to truly show herself.

Elias as well, had a lot to fight through, and I loved so much how he did it all for Eleanor.

Overall, they both turned to each other to heal from the past, and embrace the future, and I loved every bit of it. 🩷

*I received an e-ARC, all opinions are my own

[Brooke Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another emotion filled book from the Dowager's Garden series.

Eleanor is a… "beast". Injured by the man who killed her brother, she is disfigured and resigned to a life alone. When she is given the opportunity to have a season through friendship with her brother's friend, who is also a duke, she takes it. One last hurrah, of sorts.

Elias is a duke who has struggled with identity and in love. Friendship with Eleanor is just the distraction he needs. Love was never in the plans for these two.

Ms. Drake delivers another regency romance that isn't all sunshine and roses. Eleanor deals with PTSD, while Elias deals with inward rage and violence. The triggers are plenty, the story is harsh, but the growth of the characters, the regression, the healing, the patience of these scarred characters is beautiful.

I received an ARC copy and am leaving this review voluntarily

Triggers:

PTSD

Violence

Blood

Parental and sibling death

[Kiana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving Lady Lilac by Sariah Drake is a book full of suspense, finding their place in society, and speaking the truth.

I think this is my favorite book of this author. I seriously couldn’t put it down. First, touching on the opening where Sariah seriously hits you with the feels. First, the trauma. So believable, and so real. My heart pounded with the danger of each memory and I reveled in each emotion given. The story was just amazing. I would have never ever guessed the ending; it was like a punch in my stomach. Seriously, sooooooooooooooo good. I was rearing in the genius of it all.

The characters. My heart isn’t big enough for either of them. First with Eleanor and her tragic backstory, watching her grown into the light and accept her place where she rightfully belonged was such a beautiful thing. Her character growth was never boring and believable every step. And Elias. Oh my lord Elias. Such a hunk. What a guy. Riveting. Kind. Loyal. And maybe something a little darker? I wouldn’t know, you have to read it to find out. I loved them both!

If you want an unputdownable book. THIS IS THE ONE FOR YOU!

Thank you Sariah Drake for the free book.

[Kysa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely Regency Romance with deeper themes.

This was a lovely romance. There were deeper themes and traumas that characters went through that added depth to the story . Some plot lines made me think of Bridgerton - I was quite happy to be able to read a clean storyline that seems similar. A very enjoyable read that has me wanting to read more from this author.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was quite an intense story. The FMC Eleanor Stanton is a strong courageous young woman who suffered an attack from the person who murdered her brother in front of her. It left her with a disfiguring scar on her face and the need to wear an eye patch for the eye she had lost in the attack. She was a beautiful young lady before the attack but now the people around her avoided her and made comments. Their family has been in mourning since the death of their brother. Their father's failing health is leaving her and her sisters desperate since they don't know who will be is heir.

When an invitation comes to a house party for their brother from the Duke of Gainsbury, his friend, she is determined to come out of the shadows where she has been hiding to attend in his place. The outing doesn't go well as she suffers an emotional breakdown. Expecting to find it written about in the morning papers she is surprised when no mention is made. She finds out that the Dowager Countess of Fairfax had the story suppressed. She is interested in having Eleanor become one of the ladies of her garden. She presents her with a lilac pin but Eleanor feels it is just pity and refuses the Dowager.

Eleanor is shocked when Lady Hollings, the hostess of the party invites her to tea. Her brother Elias Yates, Duke of Gainsbury also decides to help Eleanor
by escorting her to many of the Season's events.

There is much more that goes on in this story that is not your typical regency tale. There's a secret that the Duke is hiding that Eleanor discovers. As her father's health continues to fail, she is trying to fit into society despite the ton that whispers behind fans at her disfigurement. As her relationship with Elias grows he is trying to convince her of her beauty. But other secrets he has kept from her may destroy their relationship and the trust she had placed in him.

I really enjoyed this story and felt for very bad for all that Eleanor had been put through. It was wonderful to see her step into her future despite the scars that she would never be able to hide.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ruth Coulson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Regency novel with a difference.

Even from the first, I could not help but feel that Eleanor is depicted as a a very brave woman who is strong in the sense that in the 21st century we think of strong women. Her sisters, as well as other people, are outright unkind in their clear horror in refusing to look at her, which could upset their "delicate sensibilities". She has terrible facial scars and must wear an eye patch after losing an eye in an attack where her brother Paul was killed. She has come to understand that her fate is to be alone.

An unexpected invitation leads her to attend a party, with her sister Sybella, held by the Elias, Duke of Gainsbury. Elias was a great friend of her brother Paul. This is the first time that either Eleanor or Sybella have had any social outing since the attack that killed Paul. This event led to Eleanor and her sister, this time Joan, being invited to a ball, and later there were other functions. Only Eleanor's bravery brought them to this point. Eleanor and Elias also became more involved as time goes on.

But their path is not smooth. Eleanor's disfigurement, her feelings about it, the fact that she is taken under the wing of the Dowager Duchess of Fairfax - these set her up to have a really hard time. Add betrayal, the death of her much-loved father, the reactions of her sisters and you have a woman who is really struggling. And then with the identity of her father's heir and what follows, and you might think the load is too heavy to shoulder.

Eleanor falters, of course she does. She is only human, but she is able to carry on. In fact the author has, with considerable skill, drawn a heroine with a character that can most easily be appreciated by today's women. Let's face it, we enjoy reading in this genre about fainting ladies whose only thoughts are about which balls to attend, what to wear and how to find a suitable husband. But we can easily admire a character like Eleanor, who is more real. She could easily fit in any serious novel set in more modern times. Given the chance, I would like to meet her. Wouldn't you?

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

[Ellie (On a break, mostly rereading) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loving Lady Lilac is the second book in Sariah Drake's Regency romance series, The Dowager's Garden. This is a standalone book, though if you have read the first book, you will recognise Captain Lacey and his wife in their cameo at the end of the book.

The series follows young ladies who catch the eye of the dowager Countess of Fairfax, who uses her social prowess and her fortune to help ladies of the ton "come up to scratch" to find a suitable marriage. The dowager dubs her ladies with different flower name, e.g. Lady Lilac, to add to her "garden". Basically, she's a bored socialite who wishes to help young ladies, whether her intentions are pure or not, and whether the lady in question wants the help or not.

Miss Eleanor Stanton is the very much reluctant Lady Lilac. She withdrew from society after she and her brother were attacked in a London alleyway two years earlier. Her brother was murdered and Eleanor was left with scars that have disfigured her face. Eleanor spends her time nursing her ill father, and navigating uneasy relationship with her sisters. With their father dying and their brother dead, their futures are bleak and there is no way for them to make respectful marriages now. This family has so much unresolved trauma.

An unexpected invitation sends Eleanor and one of her sisters to London, meeting their brothers best friend, Elias Yates, the Duke of Gainsbury. Elias is a fairly mild manner sort of guy, he is gentle and kind, but there is also a steel about him that suits his station in life. After making a faux paus Elias keeps turning up in Eleanor's life.

There is mystery, thrills and a murder that could potentially be solved. Elias and Eleanor are well suited, but they are also fascinating characters who grow both together and individually through the story. I really enjoyed the mystery part of the plot, both for the actual story but also how it worked to bring the couple together.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a story! Two years ago eighteen year old Eleanor Stanton and her brother Paul were attacked in an alley. Paul died and Eleanor’s face was sliced open leaving one of her eyes damaged beyond repair. Even after two years of mourning, she had bouts of detachment, distorted and horrifying memories, and the belief that her monstrous visage would be shunned by the entirety of the ton. An errant invitation addressed to her deceased brother led Eleanor to a party hosted by Paul’s friend Elias Yates, the Duke of Gainsbury, and his sister Lady Amelia Hollings. Although things went seriously awry at the party, Eleanor caught the attention of both the Duke and the Dowager Duchess of Fairfax, who sought to add Eleanor to her garden as Lady Lilac. Meanwhile, Eleanor and her sisters Joan, Phoebe and Sybella were still reeling from their brother’s death while watching their father wither away from a debilitating disease, not knowing what would become of them when he passed. This story has intense emotions, obvious and clandestine manipulation, outrageous secrets, and one mind blowing betrayal. There is everything from wish fulfilling dances beneath the stars, to underground bare knuckle fighting. As feelings develop and attachments form, hope proves to be a double-edged sword, leading to inaccurate beliefs and uncomfortable revelations. Somehow, despite the extent of the Dowager Countess’ machinations, falsehoods, facial disfiguration, unsavory interference, the threat of scandal, and attempted murder, love prevails. This story drew me in from the get-go and I often found myself with tears in my eyes, holding my breath, or gritting my teeth (especially if Sybella was talking). The characters are realistic and varied. The plot takes unexpected turns, and the epilogue supplies a wrap-up that is endearing and satisfying. This is one of those stories that stays with you longer after the reading is done!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loving Lady Lilac by Seria Drake, Evelyn has had bad times ever since the death of her brother in the violent incident that left her face scarred and missing an eye. even her sister’s claim it is hard to look up on her. So when they get an invitation for their deceased brother to a ball at his best friends house Evelyn knows this is her chance to get her sisters out in society and decides to go in his stead. this is how she becomes reacquainted with Elias a Duke in his own right but as soon learns he’s so much more. He also seems to be genuinely smitten with Miss Evelyn but it’s something she just can’t bring herself to believe she fears of being pity and looked out as a charity case throughout the book she becomes close with his sister lady Hollings who seems to also enjoy her company. She is also approached by the countess Fairbanks who runs a club to help women on the fringes of the ton fine husbands or at the very least be put in society and when she ask Evelyn to be one of her flowers lilac to be exact Evelyn refuses. however when the Duke of Gaines Berry ask her to spend time with him that season so she can get to know him and possibly herself she agrees. Will Evelyn find true love with Elias Gaines Berry and be the Duchess or will her stubborn nature have her only confidant in life be her journal? i’m not gonna lie I really loved the characters in this book I didn’t like all the boxing parts but they’re a few and don’t take over the story I also thought the book was absolutely historically accurate which is a pet peeve of mine and I thought Miss Drake did a beautiful job with that. I am definitely going to be looking out for the next book in the series I also want to say I got tired of her never wanting to be a charity case that got really old but loved the ending and look forward to the next installment.#BookSprout, #TheBlindReviewer, #MyHonestReview, #SeriaDrake, #LovingLadyLilac,

[My_every_day_chilling · Rating 3 out of 5]

5 stars for all the plot twists. I must say they were brilliant. Loved them, was not expecting them. They were the highlight of the story for me.
3 stars for the emotion felt. While book 1 had all the angst, I thought we'd have the same feeling in this book because of her scar. But the angst was missing and most of the time I forgot she even had a scar. I think that subject was in a fantasy world, where society accepted it too well, people didn't even look at her as they did in that era (maybe the 1st time, but then suddenly they accepted it). So that disappointed me.
There was some chemistry between our MC's, but I didn't feel their connection. I didn't know how I felt with the old Lady Fairfax in book 1 and I still don't like her in book 2. In book 1 I found Elias false and in Book 2 he's violent throughout most of the book. I think the author was trying to make a protector, alpha, dominant hero, but over indulged on the violence and I couldn't feel the protectiveness, nor dominance.
Both books tended to lean toward violence as a solution to their emotional states. I wasn't a fan of that.
1 star for historical accuracy. I couldn't figure out what era we were in, the year was never mentioned, and because of all the historical inaccuracies, I was confused. 1. Dukes and Earls partitioned and participated in boxing matches already in the 1700's, so I had no idea why Elias's boxing was a problem; 2. our MC used "cologne", something that only came into the country in the 1830's; 3. Rice being tossed at weddings became popular at the end of the 1800's; 4. even the black mourning dresses are debatable, for they only became popular with Queen Victoria, she wore black for 33 years after her husband dies in 1861.
So, all these couldn't have happened all at the same time.

This was a closed door historical romance, with some triggers that are kindly noted in the beginning

[Angelia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two years ago, Eleanor Stanton and her brother were victims of an attack on the streets of London. Her brother was killed, and Eleanor was left with a horrific scar on her face. After the attack, she and her family retreated from society. Her sisters can’t even bear to look at her, not just because of her scar, but because they blame her for their brother’s death. So she hides in the shadows of her home, taking care of her father and keeping out of her sisters’ way as much as possible.

When they receive an invitation to a ball, Eleanor makes an impetuous decision to attend. She knows she’ll never have another opportunity like this and just wants one night of joy. When she and her sister show up at the ball, she’s surprised to see her brother’s friend, Elias Yates, Duke of Gainsbury. He looks past her scars and sees the real true her and offers her friendship and acceptance that she hasn’t experienced in two years. Eleanor also comes to the attention of the Dowager Countess Fairfax, who wants to include her in her “garden” of hopeless young women she can turn into marriageable ladies.

As Eleanor tries to avoid the pushy dowager and establish a relationship with Elias, she realizes he’s not all he seems. And when a terror from the past comes back to haunt her, she’s not sure if their relationship can survive.

Loving Lady Lilac is a beautiful story of the healing power of love. It’s also very intense. There are scenes of violence, and we see the characters of the book dealing with incredibly traumatizing events. Ms. Drake handles Eleanor’s PTSD and the issues she and her family face with sensitivity and grace. I loved Eleanor and Elias. They were flawed but beautiful characters. The supporting cast is well drawn human. I can’t recommend this book enough.

I received an advance readers copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Lida Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚✨ BOOK REVIEW ✨📚
Title: Loving Lady Lilac
Series: The Dowager’s Garden, Book 2 (can be read as a standalone)
Author: Sariah Drake
Genre: Closed‑Door Regency Romance
Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)

📝 My Thoughts:
Eleanor Stanton’s scars (both visible and hidden) make her the least likely candidate for a glittering London Season. Enter Elias Yates, a duke with his own bruised past, whose charm hides dangerous secrets. Their romance is slow‑burn, full of push‑and‑pull tension, stolen moments, and sharp dialogue.

This book shines in its emotional depth and tender romance, but it’s heavier than a typical “tea and ballrooms” Regency. At times, the pacing wavers under the weight of its darker themes. Still, the characters feel real and layered, and the story delivers a satisfying happily‑ever‑after without glossing over pain.

⚠ Triggers (handled with care): PTSD, depersonalization, grief, violence, manipulation.

🔖 Favorite Quote:
"Society grinds us down, sometimes without building us back up again. Do not allow criticism to lead you to believe you are ineligible for love."

📌 Final Verdict:
A beautifully written tale of healing, trust, and unexpected love. Best for readers who enjoy:
* Scarred heroines who fight for their dignity
* Protective dukes with a dangerous edge
* Secret matchmaking schemes
* Slow‑burn, emotional romance with a closed door

💐 Thank you to the author for the early opportunity to read this story. This is my personal and unbiased opinion.

#rnreads #historicalromance #RegencyRomance #CleanRomance #BookReview #SlowBurnRomance #MarriageOfConvenience #FoundFamily #SwoonyDuke #Bookstagram #AmReading

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Death clouds the lives of Eleanor Stanton and her sisters. Their father lies dying in his bedroom. Their brother, Paul, was murdered in a street attack which left Eleanor with one eye and a scarred face. Their days are as dark as the black mourning they continue to wear.
Then an invitation to Paul and a guest is delivered to the house. Eleanor decides that she and one of her sisters should attend the ball, a fateful decision that puts her in contact with Paul’s best friend, Elias Yates, the duke of Gainsbury, who has his own secrets.
Although the ball could be described as a disaster, Eleanor is launched into a Season by the Dowager Countess of Fairfax, who attempts to bring unlikely young ladies to a happy marriage in her garden. Eleanor is to be her Lady Lilac. Eleanor rejects the lilac pin, but she embraces the opportunity a Season provides.
However, an enemy seeks to destroy her and the man she loves, aided and abetted by betrayal in her own family.
To say that the tone of the book is dark or intense would detract from the flowering of Eleanor’s soul. Unlike many romances in which the unlikely heroine is fat or plain and loses weight or adjusts her wardrobe or takes off her glasses, Eleanor’s disfigurement is permanent and her mental health is fragile. Her adjustments must be internal ones which then reflect in her external life. The author has done an excellent job in taking the reader into Eleanor’s mind and heart and creating a believable woman.
This is the second book in the Dowager’s Garden series.
I received a copy of this book from the author. This is my honest opinion of the book.

[SH · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eleanor Stanton has spent two years in hiding, haunted by the brutal attack that killed her brother and left her permanently scarred. Believing her injuries make her unworthy of love, she retreats from society until her father’s failing health forces her back into the very world that gossips behind fans, at her expense. Yet her brother’s true friend, Elias Yates, the Duke of Gainsbury, shows unexpected kindness, and his unwavering acceptance of Eleanor’s scars begins to make her feel worthy. Yet Elias is not your typical male lead. Beneath his polished exterior, he harbors dangerous secrets that threaten their fragile happiness.
Loving Lady Lilac is not the typical Regency romance. This story blends the elegance of London society with a darker, more emotionally gripping narrative that explores themes of murder and PTSD. Eleanor is such a strong character, defying society’s shallow perception of beauty while grappling with her trauma and self-worth. Elias, in turn, is refreshingly vulnerable, desperate to show Eleanor his feelings while she struggles to believe in her own value. Their chemistry feels genuine and hard-earned, making their romance deeply satisfying. What sets this book apart is its willingness to explore difficult topics within a Regency setting, creating a story that is both heart-wrenching and uplifting.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eleanor Stanton felt her future was drastically altered after an attack in which her brother was murdered & she was left with serious damage and scars. Her life evolved around caring for her family, but did they understand her? Her father's health was seriously failing. He had "shaking palsy" (now called Parkinson's Disease). She couldn't stand to watch him die; he was very weak. And if he died without she or any of her sisters marrying, they could be evicted and lose everything.
One day Eleanor took a bold step and accepted an invitation that was sent to her deceased brother. She and her sister attended in their brother's place. There, she met Elias Yates, Duke of Gainsbury and his sister. She also met the Dowager Countess of Fairfax who later invites her to become a member of her exclusive "garden".
Elias had been a friend to her brother, and now he seemed to see beyond Eleanor's facial scars to the kind and caring woman she was. Where others were horrified by her face, he wasn't. Could it be? However, when Elias' secret is found out, Eleanor and he part ways. Could they ever be friends again? And when a family secret--a dangerous story twist--is revealed, can Elias and Eleanor escape with their lives?
I enjoyed this story very much. The mystery, emotions, and the twists kept me reading to the end. I received a complimentary ARC of this book and have voluntarily given my honest opinion in this book.

[Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

'Loving Lady Lilac' gives readers what many of us were hoping for following the first book—we finally get to see Elias, the Duke, fall in love! After his intriguing presence in 'Romancing Lady Rose', it was a treat to see his story unfold.

This installment has a very different tone, with Eleanor’s perspective drawing us into a story that feels almost Gothic at times. I loved having a female lead with a more atypical appearance, and the emotional weight she carries makes her both complex and real. Sariah Drake does a wonderful job writing nontraditional characters while still delivering a clean and captivating romance.

The circumstances here are grittier, with characters facing grief, anger, and trauma. There are moments of raw emotion and suspense, complete with twists and horrific challenges. Yet the perilous backdrop ultimately makes the romance feel passionate while still remaining low-spice.

Although I don’t usually gravitate toward this genre, I raced through the book. It’s suspenseful, character-driven, and layered with both darkness and hope. While I would counsel real people facing these struggles toward different paths to healing, I eagerly followed these characters’ journeys. I also appreciated that it was clear from the start the romance would remain clean, which let me enjoy the unconventional circumstances without worry.

Special thanks to BookSirens for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Margaret P Medberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sariah Drake literally doesn’t pull any punches in this darkly romantic, almost Gothic novel. Drake is an exceptional writer and deals with the issue of post-traumatic stress very vividly in the character of Eleanor Stanton. Eleanor has to deal with her terrible scars, both physical and mental, that occurred from an attack that violently killed her brother.

As a result of a mistaken invitation, she and her sister go to a party hosted by her late brother’s best friend, Elias, who is now a powerful duke. As a child, Eleanor had adored Elias. Despite her terrible scars, Elias takes her under his wing, and we soon discover he has dark secrets that are painful and carefully hidden.

Drake weaves a powerful and romantic story filled with shocking twists and turns, and thrilling edge-of-your-seat moments. As always, she creates touching and compelling characters that are drawn together despite insurmountable obstacles. I don’t know how she does it. But, wow, Sariah Drake can write an amazing tale.

This story is darker in some ways than her previous books, but it is no less wonderfully romantic and still delivers a terrific HEA.

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

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t even know where to begin, this story is so rich! Eleanor has been so traumatized , it has left her numb. Elias is a duke, fighting rage that he can not explain. This emotional roller coaster ride of a story left me in tears, in anger, in disbelief and in love. There are so many curveballs in this tale, I am afraid to say more for fear of exposing some. I adored how the author portrayed Eleanor’s disassociation episodes.They felt so real and can only imagine what the author felt as she wrote them. The scenes in this book are so beautifully written , you can feel the angst, trauma, pain, heartache and anger. Her sisters’ are not at all supportive of her injury which adds to the trauma and Elias is a breath of fresh air in Eleanor’s life….until it isn’t . What they have to go through to get their HEA is painful and beautiful at the same time. One surprise comes OUT OF NOWHERE and will throw you for a loop. My first adventure with this author and it will not be my last! Great story, that I finished in one afternoon, it was that good!


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

[Denise Taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! Sariah did such a great job on this one! She stepped outside of her norm but man did she do a great job! I really felt for Eleanor and her struggles with trying to accept what happened to her and trying to move forward with life but the way her sisters were behaving and treating her along with the way society in general treated her - how could she. It made it very difficult for her to accept her appearance and move forward. I really liked the way Sariah wrote Elias’ character. His dark secrets that gentle society frowns upon. He was a night in shining armour for Eleanor and had to really work to prove to her that he didn’t see her the way everyone else did. It was nice that he saw her inner beauty and was able to fall in love with who she really was not what society made her out to be. I’m glad the ending was a happy ending. It was a well written story that had me right there with the characters- especially the death of their dad. That actually had me in tears. I could feel the guilt and the loss right along with the characters. Well done Sariah!!!

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

[psych0_4books · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.75 ⭐

I was floored by the story of Eleanor and Elias. The friends to lovers and brother's best friend tropes were well written and I couldn't put my Kindle down.

Eleanor Stanton immersed herself in the shadows after a fateful night in a London valley left her mentally and physically scarred and caused the loss of her beloved brother. She endured ridicule from her sisters and refused to join society or the search for a marriage. Fate swooped in with an invitation to a party and Eleanor found herself entwined with her brother's best friend, the Duke of Gainsbury Elias Yates.

Elias was reeling from his engagement woes of the previous book (Romancing Lady Rose) but when he encounters Eleanor at the party, sparks fly and he finds himself sticking up for her and attempting to save the Stanton's from further gossip and ruination.

I could not get enough of how Elias was so thoughtful and protective of Eleanor; the scene at the modiste made me gasp and swoon over Elias! Such a good book and I definitely recommend it for the girlies who love Bridgerton or the Regency era in general.

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an intense and intriguing historical romance. Eleanor has hidden away for two years, but when a surprising invitation, comes for her dead brother, she feels that it’s time to put herself out there despite her disfigurement.
Elias Yates, the Duke of Gainsbury is surprised and captivated by his former best friend's sister. But he himself is struggling with his own identity.
This story is really one for the books. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters and the storyline keeps you on your toes and second-guessing what would happen next. It is a little bit dark for a romance, but unraveling the mystery is so rewarding. Some triggers are mobbed to death, fist fighting, stabbing, and premeditated violence. All are handled with the utmost decorum. I appreciate this author for her well defined characters, her poignant and heartwarming storylines, and for writing, clean wholesome of romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Cortney · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Where did you go?"
The question caught her off guard.
"I beg your pardon?"
"You disappeared," Elias said.
"For a moment you were gone entirely. As though lost in some distant dream. Where did you go?"
Eleanor could only stare up at him, her mind struggling to form a coherent response. He was the first person to truly notice the episodes in public. How could she possibly explain something she barely understood herself? She shook her head slowly.
"I went nowhere."

To have someone know you, let alone understand you, when you’ve been traumatized? So rare! For someone to reach out and TRY to know you? Even rarer.

I love this book. I love the imperfect characters. I love the twists and turns we are taken through to get these two messed up people together. I love the perfect descriptions of what your brain does during PTSD. And I LOVE that Eleanor doesn’t want or need pity induced help. Please read the Dowager’s Garden series!

I received an Advanced Reader Copy for free from the author, this is an honest review.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is equal parts enthralling and...overwhelming.

I loved Elias and Eleanor. The two of them just clicked as soon as they shared the page. I really loved how Elias was the first person who saw her instead of her eyepatch and scars since the attack. And in the same way, as Eleanor got to know him better...she truly saw him too!

The mystery behind Eleanor's attack, what really happened that night when she lost her brother...it kept me hooked and horrified. The little hints and pieces thrown out as the story went had me imagining all sorts of worse case scenarios and I STILL couldn't have prepared myself for the actual account and the twist that came along with it!

So, overall, I was enthralled with the romance and the mystery surrounding the book, I absolutely hated some of Eleanor's sisters and was overwhelmed with how much I kept thinking of it when I wasn't reading! It was a great, but heavy, book and I definitely need a good romcom after this!

TW: This is definitely darker than the first book. Make sure you read the content warning at the beginning of the book.

[Natalie Paukstys · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was incredible. I was not expecting the depth that came from it. My only knock down to four stars instead of five was how toxic I felt the Duke could be. This will surely crop up in the future. Having lived with my own mental struggles and dealt with serious mental health issues involving violence in my own family, I feel that too many of the controlling tendencies he had made him less likeable than he was depicted. One does not simply shed an alter-ego because he fell in love. I know this too well, so I didn’t feel this was well-depicted in the book or should have gone that far. It really unsettled me, but that may have been my own PTSD talking. That being said, Ms. Drake clearly has the power to evoke strong emotion, display vivid scenes, and enact strong character development. I’m very interested in exploring her other titles.

Prepare yourself for something other than a clean, sweet Regency romance. This goes much further, deeper, and darker than that. It was impressive.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful story that, at its heart, focuses on two scared individuals struggling to come to terms with their personal demons while coping with the scrutiny of regency society. There is also a mystery component that further lured me into these pages. Family dynamics play a critical role in the well placed plot, both those of blood and of the "chosen" (not always by choice but chance and a lack of option). Many triggers such as PTSD, violence, blood and death are rather prevelant, yet addressed with sensitivity and scrutiny simultaneously. Drake created in depth characters ring true and blossom beautifully throughout the book.

Im elated i stumbled upon a gift copy of this book, as it is the first work of Drake's that I've read. However, the feelings evoked while reading have me clamoring to go back and read her earlier releases - and keep an eye out for more in the future.
*I voluntarily provided this review and hope it encourages you to read this wonderful story.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a heartfelt Regency romance. Eleanor is a beautifully written heroine—wounded, guarded, and painfully convinced she’s unlovable after the attack that changed her life. Watching her slowly step back into society and rediscover her worth was deeply satisfying.

Elias, the mysterious Duke of Gainsbury, is everything I love in a romantic lead: patient, attentive, and clearly captivated by Eleanor for who she is, not what she looks like. Their connection is tender and swoon-worthy, with just the right touch of intrigue once his secrets come to light.

I especially appreciated how this story handled themes of trauma, self-worth, and trust without losing its romantic charm. The closed-door romance keeps the focus on emotion, longing, and genuine connection. A lovely standalone Regency with heart, suspense, and a well-earned happily ever after.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review. 

[Kim!]

I received this as an ARC but DNF'd at the end of chapter 12, around 25%. Anachronisms don't normally bother me much, but there were a number of glaring ones, most notably in the modiste scene in chapter 12 - an unmarried man publicly paying for the wardrobe of an unmarried woman he isn't related to and declaring she is "under his protection," not to mention being present in the fitting room in the first place, dress shopping being written as "woman tries on dress" instead of being fitted & picking out fabrics, MMC "settling the bill" at the counter instead of being billed/paying later. And the author doesn't understand what a regency "house party" is. I also wasn't a fan of how two-dimensional FMC's sisters seemed in contrast to her and the inconsistent characterization of the MMC, though I can't make a complete judgement on that since I didn't finish the book.

[Purple Turtle Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think it's safe to say that I've found my new favorite author! This is only my second Sariah Drake novel, but I've fallen in love with her writing, characterization, and storytelling ability! Loving Lady Lilac kept me on the edge of my seat with its unexpected twists and turns and swoony closed door romance! I enjoyed the character building in this story-Eleanor and Elias are the most perfectly imperfect couple. ❤️ The mental health awareness and representation in this story was very insightful to read, and I believe it's an important element to add to fictional stories as it's an overlooked issue in the real world. I highly recommend this novel and author!

✨ Loving Lady Lilac is the second novel in The Dowager's Garden series, which can also be read as a standalone. Suitable for young adult readers and older. Contains mental health content that may be sensitive to some readers. ✨