The Falconer's Lost Baron: A Sweet Regency Romance of Falcons, Forgiveness, and the Courage to Heal

by Susanne Dunlap

One secret destroys everything she thought she knew. One cold December offers everything she never expected.

Antonella believes she is Lady Belinda’s twin—until a devastating revelation strips away her identity and her place in society. Cast adrift, she clings to the only constant she’s ever her passion for birds. But when rescuing an injured goshawk brings her face-to-face with Lord Atherleigh, a war hero who has lost both his hand and his hope, Antonella must decide if love can bloom from ruin.

Meanwhile in London, Belinda is determined to secure her sister’s future—until the dangerously charming Mr. Gainesworth entangles her in a battle between duty and desire. When he follows her to Cornwall, temptation may prove stronger than resolve.

Two sisters. Two romances. One truth that will test everything they believe about family, loyalty, and love.

Genres: Romance, Regency

370 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2025

About the author

Susanne Dunlap is the author of more than a dozen historical novels for adults and teens. Susanne grew up in Buffalo, New York and has lived in London, Brooklyn, Northampton, MA, and now Biddeford, ME. Her love of historical fiction arose partly from her PhD research at Yale.

Susanne is also an Author Accelerator Certified Book Coach in fiction and nonfiction, specializing in coaching historical fiction and historical nonfiction.

Reviews

[ItaPixie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Falconer's Lost Baron tells the story of Antonella and her twin sister Belinda, from the excitement to go to London together to the news that changes their lives, making them reevaluate their existence.

I loved this historical novel thanks to the skillful word building, the intriguing storyline, and the wonderful characters.

Susanne Dunlap has conceived once again an amazing tale with a couple of witties and peculiar heroines.

Antonella has just charmed me with her true passion for nature and her kindness towards birds. Malcom grumpiness due to his war wound is endearing. I was so glad these two beautiful souls met at just the right time, producing a perfect couple.
A special mention goes to Belinda and Hector, they are the right people to help the other two shy and grouchy characters to see their lives in a most colourful way.

I highly recommend this sweet, wholesome Regency romance.

Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written, full of drama, secrets, PTSD, adventure, emotions, love, sadness, intrigue, romance and history. A different twist to this story by putting two romances in one story. Antonella is at home taking care of her falcons but feels that something is wrong. She finds out that her mother is not really who she has said she was. She makes a match with Lord Malcolm after one her falcons lands there. Malcolm feels he isn't the man he was anymore after losing his hand in the war. He has other issues that goes along with it. Antonella is able to help him overcome what emotions he's having about it. they get their happily ever after. Lady Belinda is being pushed to marry a man that she doesn't like or want for his title by her mother. She meets Hector who is a rake but finds that he is what she wants. They find out that love has a way of changing feelings and hearts. Curl up and enjoy this book about these twins and what happened in their lives. Would recommend to everyone.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an emotional read with a dark secret . It was a case of being born on the wrong side of the blanket, and being held accountable when you yourself had nothing to do with it. An innocent victim. Two girls were raised as sisters, and felt the bond in their bones that others would not give credence to without proper support. Like Thomas (doubting tom) they would stick their hand in the wound to verify it!!! I liked how two imperfect people became the perfect fit for each other. A man who thought ge was less, because he was missing a hand lost in war. A woman who wasn't a lady because of birth circumstances!??!! They were a healing balm to each other's souls and a safe place when they each got out of their own way. I simply can't wait for the next sisters. They don't suffer fools lightly, and each has a mind of their own. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this historical double romance, sisters Antonella and Belinda must contend with a family secret, a lost falcon, and their first experiences of love.

Dilemma #1: Belinda is beautiful and vivacious. But will she find a husband she truly loves or be saddled with a man her mother selects for his title and wealth?

Dilemma #2: Antonella is the less conventional twin, devoted to caring for the birds on her family's property. When she learns a devastating secret about her birth, her security in society - and in her own home - is shattered. Where, and with whom, does she belong?

All the Double Dilemma stories are interesting, enjoyable reads packed with historical detail and sweet romances hindered by society's constraints. This one is no exception, but I found it more emotionally intense than the other books in the series, in a good way. Easily read as a standalone.

[I received a complimentary ARC from the author. Opinions are my own.]

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Oh how I loved this and the closeness of the two main characters Antonella and Belinda. They have always been led to believe that they are twins but then it is revealed that they’re not and Antonella’s place in society is immediately gone. She finds solace in her one true passion ~ birds. She rescues an injured goshawk and works out that he belongs to neighbour Lord Atherleigh. The connection between the two girls however never falters and Belinda is determined to find a suitor for Antonella who she still thinks of as her sister. However things take a turn when she meets a certain Mr Gainsworth in London…..
Lord Atherleigh has returned from war a hero but injured and this has left him feeling that there is no hope for him to lead a normal life. He also has an interest in birds but on his return learns that his goshawk has gone missing. Feeling extremely sorry for himself it takes friend to Mr Gainsworth to convince him to re -enter society bringing him face to face with Antonella…….
The main characters personalities and their interactions with each other were described brilliantly. I really felt that they came across as very individual and also very likeable. The thought that the story flowed well with plenty of intrigue and a few twists. A very enjoyable and at times emotional read.

[Cindy Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

First book I've read by this author and I'm now looking for the previous three novels as this was unique. Double-dilemma stories wherein there are two love stories to create. I loved both Belinda and Antonella, or Bee and Ant as they called themselves. Only thing I didn't really get is how much Lady Lewiston apparently changed at the end of the story, which seemed somewhat out of character for her, but, maybe she learned some lessons from the "sisters!" Although I received a complimentary review copy from BookSirens, my opinions are my own and given voluntarily.

[Trina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series, they are such emotional reads, I feel part of the family of characters. the world building and descriptions easily created a relatable location. The characters are the type you love and although no real 'baddies' in this book there are a couple which me as the reader did not warm to. Was a very happy ending, I look forward to the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It is not only a sweet romance but it has two sweet romances. The four main characters are likeable. Two of them have issues to be dealt with and love helps them do so. It is a quick easy fun book.

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

[Jill · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful story! I loved the relationship between Belinda and Antonella. The love they share as sisters is so deep. The story is well written. It moves at a steady pace which is easy to follow. The emotions within the story are so powerful and touching. It is a story that is filled with triumph.

[Cathy · Rating 2 out of 5]

Great set of characters but far too many holes and not romantic or healing enough

I love me a clean historical romance. Especially one with a wounded war hero MMC and a strong amazing female character. I just cry with joy whenever I find them. Who doesn't love a rise from the ashes to sore again kind of story? So I was very excited to sign up to review this for free when it came up on Booksprout. The bones of the story were so perfectly inviting.

Sadly a lot was amiss for me and as much I strongly wanted to love it, I must give my honest opinion.

As historical fiction readers we all know how deeply important choice of words and style of putting together sentences matter. It can either pull you and keep you locked into the world of the story, or if not well done be limiting to the reader's enjoyment. In this case the language used has an old flair to it but not old enough to properly tickle the period reader's brain amply.

The story telling was quite clumsy in some parts resulting in holes in the plot, and a rushing of things along where it would have been better to sit in the scenes a little more. Sometimes characters seem to forget profound things that happened and thus say and do things that do not track. Other times they rush through gripping and emotional moments leading to a loss of that heart warming element. This was quite sad because the bones of the story were so good!! Just the fleshing out and editing needed to add to the potential loveliness.

I feel like everyone also fell too fast. There was no proper build up. Just a sudden almost inexplicable serious attachment. So much was going and much of it was not the love interests interacting with each other. They spent more time thinking about each other than actually being in each other's company. What is love if not the building of a bond? This watered down the romance aspect heavily. And because of it I didn't find myself invested in the happiness of any of the couples.

It would have been perhaps a saving grace if whatever else was going on (which was quite interesting and potentially very entertaining to follow) was written in an intriguing and warming way but unfortunately it was not the case. A good number of times there was a lot of repetition where the story could have been moved forward in an interesting or warming way.

Then there was the matter of body shapes and beauty. Unfortunately yet another book where the chubby portly character is painted as disgusting and off putting and definitely the villain. While the more toned characters are the heroes worthy of respect. Sigh, apart from M. A. Nichols are there any other historical fiction writers who treat people with dignity and respect no matter whether they are tall or short or plump or lean?

It could have been a beautiful, heart warming, healing and romantic story but sadly it didn't hit the right spots for me.

[Nancy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed her writing style. The characters came alive on the page. I know this is book 4 in this series but I had no trouble understanding the story. i already have the other 3 books so now I have lots to look forward to reading.

The story starts write off with a horrible situation as a set of twins are preparing to leave for their introduction into London's society. Their mother calls them for an unexpected discussion where she tells them that they are not sisters and that Antonella was actually not her child. She was actually the child of a distant relative. This situation totally changes Antonella's life as she was prepared from childhood to take her place in Society to wed and have a family. Her sister Belinda is very upset by this news and wants to find a solution for her sister. She decides to try to find a man to court her and when that doesn't work she wants to discover why this was kept a secret from them for eighteen years.

Antonella is left home while Belinda and her mother go to London for a brief visit. She is devastated by the news she was given and is trying to deal with the change in her life. Even the staff in the home begin to treat her differently not giving her their usual attention. Antonella has studied and cared for birds for many years and she turns to that to help her cope with her new life. She finds a wounded goshawk which she takes to her small shed to treat it's broken wing. She knows the only person in her neighborhood that raises falcon's is Lord Atherleigh so she goes to his home to ask questions of his staff in charge of his birds. While there she discovers Lord Atherleigh struggling to mount his horse. She is terrified of horses yet willing to help him get back on his horse. She finds out he has a missing left hand from a war wound.

These two wounded people may realize they have a lot in common and they can be there for each other.

This book has a secondary romance between Belinda and Mr Gainesworth, the man she tries to get to court her sister. He will help her discover the truth about her sister's birth.

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

[Ingrid · Rating 3 out of 5]

This historical romance attempts something ambitious: a double love story in which two sisters find romance at the same time, with their stories unfolding in parallel. It’s a wonderfully charming idea — and one that could make for a deeply engaging read. Strong female leads in historical romance are still rare, and I genuinely wanted to love this book for that alone.

However, the execution doesn’t fully live up to the potential. The constant switching between the sisters sometimes creates plot holes and leaves the story feeling a bit disjointed. Both romances would have benefited from more character development to help the emotional arcs truly land.

The language also feels far too modern for a historical romance, which makes it hard to fully sink into the setting. The world-building is there, but the tone and speech patterns pull you back out — creating a noticeable tension throughout the book.

Since I received a non–proofread copy, I can’t comment on typos or editing, but the underlying issues with plot consistency and language choice do affect the overall reading experience.

That said, the foundation is strong: the idea is lovely, the world-building has real potential, and the female-centered storyline is refreshing. If the language were made more era-appropriate and the plot holes smoothed out, this could become a fantastic historical romance. As it stands, it’s a decent and enjoyable read — especially if you’re less sensitive to anachronistic language and simply want a sweet, dual-story romance.

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

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the plotline of this double dilemma romance which told the story of the two girls, Antonella and Belinda who had been raised as twin sisters and the daughters of a marquess. After some earthshattering news, Antonella finds her future turned upside down and her place in society questioned. There are some interesting details in the different ways the two sisters are treated in society and the futures they can expect.

Belinda proves to be a loyal sister who is not prepared to leave her sister behind as she goes forward into society. Antonella has always had interests which were far from the society preoccupations she is expected to have. She has nurtured her love of birds and the natural world, which is so different to the customs and rules of polite society. The men in the story are equally interesting. Lord Atherleigh has returned with life changing injuries from war. It is obvious to the reader that he shares many interests with Antonella but he needs to come to terms with his new state. Belinda, in London, finds herself in a friendship with a long term friend of Lord Atherleigh, Hector Gainesworth. Although extremely wealthy, he has no title which is a huge disadvantage according to Belinda's mother. With thoughts on how marriage affects young women and the opportunities which status brings, you find yourself thinking about the place of women in Regency society and the importance of loyalty, friendship, family and love.

In short: Regency romance
Thanks to the publisher

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Antonella's life is turned upside down when she learns that her 'twin sister' is not her twin sister at all - in fact, she's a mere poor relation. Feeling lost and uncertain of her place in life, she throws herself into caring for her injured birds - and particularly a magnificent goshawk she finds injured in a snare. But she soon finds herself keeping secrets from the man she's most attracted to - a man just as injured in his own way. Lady Belinda is determined to try to find a good husband for Antonella, twin or no - and her brief time in London finds what seems the perfect man. Only, when he follows her back to Cornwall, she gradually realises that he makes her own heart race. Can the pair find happiness amid a web of secrets, prejudices and lies?

I've really enjoyed each of these books, and this was no exception. The two romances are woven together in such a way that each adds to the other, making the combination better than the two separately could have been. Hints of the true background situation were clear throughout, but the full story waited until near the end and of course worked much better than my imagination had painted. And as for the two couples? Each fitted together beautifully, and the way Antonella and Belinda clearly cared for and supported each other was also heartwarming, particularly given the unexpected news. Add in a very satisfying ending despite a most unpromising situation, and the result is a really great story. Recommended.

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

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a heartfelt story with secrets, lies, disappointment and unbelievable courage. Just after they turned eighteen, Lady Lewiston informed her ‘twin’ daughters, Belinda and Antonella, that not only were they not twins, but in fact they were not even sisters. Antonella went from ‘Lady’ to ‘Miss’ and was denied her status and a London season. Meanwhile, Malcolm Tennant, Lord Atherleigh had returned from the war missing his left hand. He was determined to reside at his country estate, which was only a few miles from the Lewiston property, while he came to terms with all that the loss of his hand had cost him. Mr. Hector Gainesworth was Malcolm’s best friend and, having been completely smitten with Belinda at the one party she attended in London, decided to spend the holidays with Malcolm. The story that follows is filled with a variety of challenges, heartache, misconceptions, misinformation, and steadfast loyalty and friendship. It is a well written tale that evokes a wide range of emotions, while at the same time supplying a great deal of inspiration. I found it to be original, perceptive and difficult to put down.

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

[Margaret P Medberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susan Dunlap’s delightful Regency novel delves into family secrets, both physical and emotional, while weaving a captivating double love story. Antonella and Belinda, sisters with vastly different personalities, face their lives upended by a family secret.

Antonella, unlike her sister, finds solace in the outdoors, where she enjoys climbing trees, rescuing birds, and attempting to heal them. Her compassionate nature leads her to rescue a large hawk trapped in a poacher’s nest, determined to save its life. Meanwhile, her neighbor, Lord Atherleigh, has recently returned from the war with a severe wound that makes him feel unsuitable for falconry and marriage. His friend Hector’s efforts to bring him out of his shell soon bring the four young people together, revealing their mutual attraction.

Dunlap’s prose is exquisite, beautifully capturing the essence of birds, the outdoors, elegant balls, and beautiful gowns. She skillfully explores the emotional struggles of the main characters, leading the story through a series of twists and turns that culminate in a satisfying happy ending. This enchanting novel is a delightful read that leaves a lasting impression.

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

[Yak_in_flight · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet and satisfying Regency read with engaging characters and a charming blend of romance and adventure. I especially loved the relationship between the two sisters. It captures the strength of sisterhood in a world where women are bound by rigid social expectations, and I was reminded that love between women can be every bit as powerful as romantic love.

That focus on family doesn’t detract from the delightful romantic threads woven throughout the story. The relationships are playful and full of the tantalizing push-and-pull you expect from a good historical romance!

In vivid contrast to the societal constraints is the falconer’s bird, whose wildness mirrors Antonella herself, who is spirited and restless despite the limits imposed on her. Through its exploration of personal identity, freedom, and recovery, the story becomes not just a romance, but a thoughtful reflection on resilience and the courage to follow your heart.

It's so rare to find books that incorporate falconry into the plot, so that was a personal aspect that I enjoyed greatly!

[Patti Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and enjoyed this book very much. It is book four in the series but it can be read as a stand alone. The author does an excellent job of giving you plenty of details so that you are familiar with the backstory of the characters and their families. This is the story of both Antonella and Belinda. They are twins and are about to head to London to put their toes in the water of society. Antonella does not go to London after she finds out she is not really Belinda’s twin but a distant cousin. Belinda goes to London with a mission to find the perfect match for Antonella since her future is now in jeopardy. Belinda meets Hector and thinks he would be perfect. Antonella stays home and meets Malcolm. This story is about how both of these couples find their own strengths and overcome their own struggles so that they can find true love and happiness in the end.

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

[Denise Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

I very much enjoyed the story. I liked that there was 2 love stories and some mystery. I felt the 4 main chasers well developed and the story line for that time period to be not that unusual. The descriptions of how Antonella cared for the goshawk was very easy to imagine. Her love of birds was easy to believe. I was happy that Malcolm was able to get past his issues with losing his hand and finally admitting his true feelings. I liked that Belinda managed to win over a man that was a rake without even trying. The idea of Hector turning a new leaf so quickly was romantic. I was happy that it was a happily ever after ending. I look forward to reading more of Susanne’s books. Her writing style is easy to get caught up in the stories.

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

[Shuvai · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first time reading this author, and I was immediately drawn in by her vivid writing style and lifelike characters. Though it’s book four in the series, the story stood strong on its own. From the shocking revelation that shatters the bond between twin sisters to the tender romances that blossom—one between Antonella and a wounded war hero, the other between Belinda and a rake—the novel weaves drama, secrets, resilience, and love into a rich Regency tapestry. I especially loved the focus on sisterhood and the unique falconry element, which beautifully mirrored Antonella’s spirit and search for freedom. A heartfelt, adventurous, and satisfying read that I’d recommend to all fans of historical romance.

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

[Rabia · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the first time I have had a chance to read this author's book. The plot was quite interesting, and picked up pace immediately from the start, when Antonella learns that the lady she has been calling mother is not her mother after all. But I think it dragged a bit in the middle.

The characters were quite vivid and strong, staying true to their values despite circumstances pulling them down. The two main couples were quite nicely matched! The descriptions about the hunting birds seemed very authentic too.

I think the writing got a bit too wordy in some places, and some parts of the plot seemed too unreal and unnecessary. I received an ARC of the book, and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Southern Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m finding I’m enjoying these double-dilemmas; it’s like getting two for the price of one. I especially enjoyed this one since it involved sisters who were raised as twins but are very different from each other. Having each find their perfect match with two friends is a little convenient, but gave it a fairy tale feel. I loved that Antonella and Malcom were able to find healing and joy through each other, while Belinda, while not getting the titled match her mother wanted, found someone much better for her, allowing the two sisters the lives they wanted and deserved. Sweet closed-door romance with a bit of mystery. Learning a bit about falconry was an added bonus! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[HfbR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of sisters Belinda and Antonella Ambleton, Hector Gainesworth and Malcolm Tennant, Lord Atherleigh. Arabella and Belinda grew up believing they were twins, but just before a trip to London they were given the shocking news that in fact only Belinda was a true daughter and Arabella was a low born imposter…….

I’ve read a few books by this author now and like all the others this was another great read. It’s a well written story with excellent characters and an equally great plot which moved along at a good pace. I really enjoyed the story, and the details about keeping hunting birds added an interesting twist to the story. Top marks from me 🐈‍⬛.

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

[Marie Bourgery · Rating 4 out of 5]

At the beginning of the book it is revealed that Antonella is not really Belinda sister but a baby that was secreted into the household. Belinda decides this isn't fair and that she is going to find a husband for Antonella and decides that Hector is the one, but he's more interested in Antonella. Meanwhile Antonella stays behind in the country rescuing birds and falling for recently returned from war without his left hand baron next door and his injured goshawk that she is secretly keeping. But can Malcolm see past Antonella's parentage and Hector convince Belinda of his intentions towards her?

[Anne Curry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked this one. Mixed historical fiction with a tiny taste of mystery. Not too much drama but enough it gave it flavor. Who I wanted to hate in the beginning ended up feeling a bit of compassion for in the end. Loved characters and plot. Some scandalous things at the time. ( meeting unwed girls unchaparoned. ) author points out falconry at the time wasn’t in style. However I did like that bit of the story.

Some good morals on understanding and not judging. Good clean story.

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

[Paula Downs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Having a handicap from war was a sad thing to deal with in reading but the main character going through the stages of accepting what he will have to live with was very well done. I enjoyed seeing the change in attitudes. The falcon was a very interesting "prop" to the story. I learned something new. Characters all were believable and it wasn't fluffy but had meat to the story. Enjoyable reading and I would recommend The Falconer's Lost Baron. I read a free ARC book and am voluntarily leaving this review. PJ

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a sweet double romance. Two “sisters” find love with a wounded baron and his friend. There is a little mystery regarding the parentage of one of the sisters. I enjoyed the little bit about falconry that was mentioned. I wished there was more of a conclusion to the governess. The story revolves around two people who find themselves dealing with society’s expectations and what they once had been. It was a good read.

[CJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an interesting book. The characters had depth as they faced life's challenges, learning about themselves and those around them. Things aren't always as they appear, it's easy to see the bad but if we take the time we can find the good. Also I had never heard of falconry before, so that was also interesting to learn about.

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

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fourth book in the Double Dilemma Romance series was an engaging Regency historical romance. This story has interesting characters, with depth, a charming blend of adventure, drama, intrigue, emotional and family issues, and two romances in one story. I enjoyed how the characters worked through emotional struggles, the stories twists, and turns that led to a delightful and satisfying ending. I recommend reading.

[Mary Ansell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Double Regency Romance
I thoroughly enjoyed this interesting story, set in the romantic county of Cornwall. The unconventional main characters include falconry among their interests. Two sisters are fortunate in resolving a family mystery, and in each finding her ideal match. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.