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Tell Me Sweet
He set out to transform her… but she will undo him.
Lucasta Lithwick never asked to be fashionable. She only wanted to make music. But duty calls her to London to chaperone her cousin through a glittering Season—and into the path of Jeremiah Falstead, the new Lord Rudyard, whose cutting remarks earn him the nickname “Smart Jeremy.” When Lucasta dares to answer back, she becomes the target of his revenge. His plan? To turn her, the Season’s most unlikely wallflower, into its shining star.
Jem’s motives begin as pride and wounded vanity, but every stolen glance, every sparring word with Lucasta awakens something far more dangerous—desire. Beneath her prim exterior lies a spirit as wild and ungovernable as his own, and soon Jem finds himself risking not only his secret but his heart.
As transformation gives way to temptation, both must decide if love is worth the fall from Society’s grace… or if happily ever after belongs only in the music of their dreams.
An irresistible Regency romance about two strong hearts learning that love, not fashion, is the most daring transformation of all. Fans of Julia Quinn and Tessa Dare will fall for this emotional enemies-to-lovers tale that proves even the most sensible hearts can lose their way when love—and a rogue—comes calling.
Lucasta Lithwick never asked to be fashionable. She only wanted to make music. But duty calls her to London to chaperone her cousin through a glittering Season—and into the path of Jeremiah Falstead, the new Lord Rudyard, whose cutting remarks earn him the nickname “Smart Jeremy.” When Lucasta dares to answer back, she becomes the target of his revenge. His plan? To turn her, the Season’s most unlikely wallflower, into its shining star.
Jem’s motives begin as pride and wounded vanity, but every stolen glance, every sparring word with Lucasta awakens something far more dangerous—desire. Beneath her prim exterior lies a spirit as wild and ungovernable as his own, and soon Jem finds himself risking not only his secret but his heart.
As transformation gives way to temptation, both must decide if love is worth the fall from Society’s grace… or if happily ever after belongs only in the music of their dreams.
An irresistible Regency romance about two strong hearts learning that love, not fashion, is the most daring transformation of all. Fans of Julia Quinn and Tessa Dare will fall for this emotional enemies-to-lovers tale that proves even the most sensible hearts can lose their way when love—and a rogue—comes calling.
354 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
4 people are currently reading
2 people want to read
About the author
Misty Urban
36 books211 followersMisty Urban is a fiction writer, medieval scholar, freelance editor, and college teacher. She holds a Ph.D. in Old and Middle English and an MFA in fiction from Cornell University and lives in a small town along a big river in eastern Iowa.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The poor relation summoned to town as a chaperone & the draper’s son turned unexpected marquess’s heir.
She thinks him a pompous peacock who could use a little humility.
He thinks her a pretentious harpy in need of a lesson – and a new wardrobe.
But once these two cross verbal swords, they quickly discover first impressions can be most deceiving...
Talented singer and musician, Lucasta dreams of opening her own music school in Bath. Sadly vicar’s daughters can’t be choosers – not even when there’s a rumour about an inheritance. Her pretentious aunt might dislike her, but at least this way she’ll be close to her dearest friends during the Season.
Businessman with an eye for style, doting big brother, and secret philanthropist, Jeremiah is a fish out of water when it comes to the beau monde – but he needs them and their business if he’s to withstand his father’s scandal and take care of his siblings. He only wanted to blend in, but instead became the centre of their attention.
His well-meant but ill-received fashion advice, her not-so-private barb, and suddenly we’re in a multi-layered slow burn enemies-to-lovers fake-but-not-really two-steps-forward-one-step-back courtship.
A plotting papa, a gritty great-aunt, groovy gorgons, conniving cousins, greedy gossips, fortunate foundlings and boisterous siblings – it’s a big crowd and it felt very kisses-only Bridgerton.
A solid story with lots of twist and turns, always on the move and never a dull moment. There’s disability rep, inequality, racism, social pressure – and still it remained witty and light-hearted. I really liked both MCs and their chemistry, and all in all it was an enrapturing read, yet it missed that little something something for me.
Still, a beautiful final instalment of an exceptional series I highly and happily recommend.
She thinks him a pompous peacock who could use a little humility.
He thinks her a pretentious harpy in need of a lesson – and a new wardrobe.
But once these two cross verbal swords, they quickly discover first impressions can be most deceiving...
Talented singer and musician, Lucasta dreams of opening her own music school in Bath. Sadly vicar’s daughters can’t be choosers – not even when there’s a rumour about an inheritance. Her pretentious aunt might dislike her, but at least this way she’ll be close to her dearest friends during the Season.
Businessman with an eye for style, doting big brother, and secret philanthropist, Jeremiah is a fish out of water when it comes to the beau monde – but he needs them and their business if he’s to withstand his father’s scandal and take care of his siblings. He only wanted to blend in, but instead became the centre of their attention.
His well-meant but ill-received fashion advice, her not-so-private barb, and suddenly we’re in a multi-layered slow burn enemies-to-lovers fake-but-not-really two-steps-forward-one-step-back courtship.
A plotting papa, a gritty great-aunt, groovy gorgons, conniving cousins, greedy gossips, fortunate foundlings and boisterous siblings – it’s a big crowd and it felt very kisses-only Bridgerton.
A solid story with lots of twist and turns, always on the move and never a dull moment. There’s disability rep, inequality, racism, social pressure – and still it remained witty and light-hearted. I really liked both MCs and their chemistry, and all in all it was an enrapturing read, yet it missed that little something something for me.
Still, a beautiful final instalment of an exceptional series I highly and happily recommend.
January 18, 2026
This is such an amazing historical romance. I loved the characters, the setting, the romance, the dialogue, the world building and more. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop. If you're a historical romance reader who craves immersive romantic stories, you need to read this book.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
My Rating: 5+ stars
Reviewed by: Nancy
January 20, 2026
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion
This is an enemies to lovers historical romance set in the late 1700s during the London season and highlights two people who do not fit into the mold of the aristocracy and how perceptions can be skewed. I really enjoyed how the story was told from both viewpoints of the main characters, which only helps to emphasize how much they misconstrue about each other, at first, and how much that changes over time. This is also a story of how those who are different are treated, with regards to appearances/ability, race, and social background, through the main story and the background stories. What I especially liked was how the story of Jem and his siblings was told as well, because he acted out of love and protectiveness, but his actions were still oppressive and stifled their autonomy, especially that of his sister, and inadvertantly harmfull.
There is almost a Mean Girls, high school-ish cliques feeling to how Society is portrayed here, and how groups were percevied.
Lucasta is a poor relation, pulled against her will by her relatives from her safe haven at an educational academy where she could focus on her music. She is forced to chaperone her cousin, whom she does love, but stifled in any of her own wishes, including not being allowed to do anything about her music, other than practice privately, and is given little by the family, other than a bed and board. She appears as a plain wallflower and the butt of jokes as she is forced to wear her aunt's cast offs, from decades previously. It is later discovered that her family has other underhanded and manipulative plans for her because of the rumours of an inheritance she is unaware of.
Jeremiah Falstead was raised in trade as a draper, inheriting the successful family business from his mother. His father is not a part of his life, being the younger son of a noble family who was cast off and married into trade for the money. Said father pretty much abandoned the family, taking off to the New World to take on the role of governor and oversea British holdings in the West Indies, and essentially continuing to sow his wild oats there with no regard to scandal or morality. Jeremiah loathes his father, and tries to ameliorate any of his father's misdeeds and legacy on his own. He is fiercely protective of his siblings and business. Nobody expected that the stars would align so that his father would become heir to an earldom, and Jeremiah, as the next in line, is given the honorary title of Lord Rudyard.
Jeremiah, discovering new-found power and influence in his new status, wields it with very purposeful intent - namely to protect his status, build his business, and protect his family for the future. He is very much a stranger looking in, in Society. From his viewpoint, as he observes Lucasta and her friends, he sees them as haughty, superficial, and in light of comments he overhears, chooses to make Lucasta the target of his attentions and new found influence with the hopes of seeking revenge through bringing her down.
Lucasta likewise sees Jeremiah as a careless, unfeeling, prejudiced dandy who revels in his social power, and enjoys insulting others and making them the target of Society's spite, such as demonstrated by remarks he has made about her small group of friends, including naming them Gorgons.
But, after Jeremiah decides to make Lucasta the target of his attentions, they end up spending time together, and unexpected finding much more about each other. Peeling away the layers of their own personal prejudices and perceptions, they each discover more about each other's characters, and grow to appreciate what they each reveal, including unexpected fears, talents, kindnesses and vulnerabilities. As they grow more open to each other, their relationship with each other deepens and becomes love. But is their fragile budding love strong enough to thrive against the outside influences in their lives, including societal pressures, family manipulations, and their own personal fears and desires?
Lovely romance with many nuances, lots of sweetness mixed in with the bitterness of social and family angst, and lots of historical details that made it a pleasure to read, spanning racial inequality, music, clothing/fashion, social disparity, and disability/blindness.
4.25 stars out of 5
This is an enemies to lovers historical romance set in the late 1700s during the London season and highlights two people who do not fit into the mold of the aristocracy and how perceptions can be skewed. I really enjoyed how the story was told from both viewpoints of the main characters, which only helps to emphasize how much they misconstrue about each other, at first, and how much that changes over time. This is also a story of how those who are different are treated, with regards to appearances/ability, race, and social background, through the main story and the background stories. What I especially liked was how the story of Jem and his siblings was told as well, because he acted out of love and protectiveness, but his actions were still oppressive and stifled their autonomy, especially that of his sister, and inadvertantly harmfull.
There is almost a Mean Girls, high school-ish cliques feeling to how Society is portrayed here, and how groups were percevied.
Lucasta is a poor relation, pulled against her will by her relatives from her safe haven at an educational academy where she could focus on her music. She is forced to chaperone her cousin, whom she does love, but stifled in any of her own wishes, including not being allowed to do anything about her music, other than practice privately, and is given little by the family, other than a bed and board. She appears as a plain wallflower and the butt of jokes as she is forced to wear her aunt's cast offs, from decades previously. It is later discovered that her family has other underhanded and manipulative plans for her because of the rumours of an inheritance she is unaware of.
Jeremiah Falstead was raised in trade as a draper, inheriting the successful family business from his mother. His father is not a part of his life, being the younger son of a noble family who was cast off and married into trade for the money. Said father pretty much abandoned the family, taking off to the New World to take on the role of governor and oversea British holdings in the West Indies, and essentially continuing to sow his wild oats there with no regard to scandal or morality. Jeremiah loathes his father, and tries to ameliorate any of his father's misdeeds and legacy on his own. He is fiercely protective of his siblings and business. Nobody expected that the stars would align so that his father would become heir to an earldom, and Jeremiah, as the next in line, is given the honorary title of Lord Rudyard.
Jeremiah, discovering new-found power and influence in his new status, wields it with very purposeful intent - namely to protect his status, build his business, and protect his family for the future. He is very much a stranger looking in, in Society. From his viewpoint, as he observes Lucasta and her friends, he sees them as haughty, superficial, and in light of comments he overhears, chooses to make Lucasta the target of his attentions and new found influence with the hopes of seeking revenge through bringing her down.
Lucasta likewise sees Jeremiah as a careless, unfeeling, prejudiced dandy who revels in his social power, and enjoys insulting others and making them the target of Society's spite, such as demonstrated by remarks he has made about her small group of friends, including naming them Gorgons.
But, after Jeremiah decides to make Lucasta the target of his attentions, they end up spending time together, and unexpected finding much more about each other. Peeling away the layers of their own personal prejudices and perceptions, they each discover more about each other's characters, and grow to appreciate what they each reveal, including unexpected fears, talents, kindnesses and vulnerabilities. As they grow more open to each other, their relationship with each other deepens and becomes love. But is their fragile budding love strong enough to thrive against the outside influences in their lives, including societal pressures, family manipulations, and their own personal fears and desires?
Lovely romance with many nuances, lots of sweetness mixed in with the bitterness of social and family angst, and lots of historical details that made it a pleasure to read, spanning racial inequality, music, clothing/fashion, social disparity, and disability/blindness.
4.25 stars out of 5
January 16, 2026
This ninth book in the Ladies Least Likely series was a very engaging, clean enemies to lovers historical romance. It had interesting and complex characters, including a newfound family and wonderful side characters. The plot was well written, well paced, and full of humor, wit, longing, societal expectations, racism, inequality, and many emotional issues with a lot of twists that were very enthralling. I really enjoyed their chemistry, personal growth, and the delightful ending.
Review of advance copy
A Delightful and Slow-burn Enemies to Lovers Romance
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful, inspiring and touching Georgian enemies-to-lovers romance with its added revenge and found family tropes. The story is about a strong, determined and caring heroine and a protective and troubled hero, who are both oddities on the fringes of society and deal with it in different ways. The plot is very well written, well paced and full of emotion, humor, longing, inner conflicts, interesting historical tidbits, a great imagery of the time, some twists and a whole cast of very likable and partly quirky supporting characters. Lucasta and Jeremy are endearing characters. I loved their verbal sparring, their interactions, the chemistry between them and how their relationship progressed throughout the book.
Impoverished vicar's daughter Lucasta Lithwick enjoys her life at Madame Gregoire's School and wants nothing more than to continue studying and teaching music, but she is summoned to London by her aunt to support her cousin Cici as a chaperone during her season.
Draper Jeremiah Falstead never wanted nor expected to become Viscount Rudyard and heir to a marquessate.
Now he is constantly the centre of attention and must fight against the prejudice of being a low-born entrepreneur and secure his place in society. With his cutting remarks about fashion faux pas, he quickly earns the ton’s appraisal and the nickname "Smart Jeremy". After Jeremiah offends one of her friends and refers to her circle of friends as "gorgons" and her as Medusa, Lucasta makes fun of him at a social gathering. Out of revenge, Jem wants to elevate her status in society so that she can experience for herself what it is like to be the centre of attention and what a burden it is to be constantly exposed to critical glances and opinions from people who do not consider him good enough. And besides, he wants to transform the wallflower, who, according to rumors, will soon be a rich heiress, into a diamond to attract new customers to his business. Jeremy's plans bear fruit and Lucasta is soon besieged by admirers. He hadn't expected that he and she would open up to each other and grow closer, but there are many obstacles to overcome: his original plans for revenge, family secrets and their conflicting interests and desires. Jeremy is a people pleaser and fierce protector who longs for recognition from people who do not deem him worthy; Lucasta’s greatest desire is to perform her music, regardless of whether it is scandalous or whom she pleases…
If you like sweet and clean historical enemies to lovers stories with lovable protagonists, witty banter, touching moments, great world building, great character development, female empowerment and strong bonds of friendship, you will definitely enjoy this book!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
I thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful, inspiring and touching Georgian enemies-to-lovers romance with its added revenge and found family tropes. The story is about a strong, determined and caring heroine and a protective and troubled hero, who are both oddities on the fringes of society and deal with it in different ways. The plot is very well written, well paced and full of emotion, humor, longing, inner conflicts, interesting historical tidbits, a great imagery of the time, some twists and a whole cast of very likable and partly quirky supporting characters. Lucasta and Jeremy are endearing characters. I loved their verbal sparring, their interactions, the chemistry between them and how their relationship progressed throughout the book.
Impoverished vicar's daughter Lucasta Lithwick enjoys her life at Madame Gregoire's School and wants nothing more than to continue studying and teaching music, but she is summoned to London by her aunt to support her cousin Cici as a chaperone during her season.
Draper Jeremiah Falstead never wanted nor expected to become Viscount Rudyard and heir to a marquessate.
Now he is constantly the centre of attention and must fight against the prejudice of being a low-born entrepreneur and secure his place in society. With his cutting remarks about fashion faux pas, he quickly earns the ton’s appraisal and the nickname "Smart Jeremy". After Jeremiah offends one of her friends and refers to her circle of friends as "gorgons" and her as Medusa, Lucasta makes fun of him at a social gathering. Out of revenge, Jem wants to elevate her status in society so that she can experience for herself what it is like to be the centre of attention and what a burden it is to be constantly exposed to critical glances and opinions from people who do not consider him good enough. And besides, he wants to transform the wallflower, who, according to rumors, will soon be a rich heiress, into a diamond to attract new customers to his business. Jeremy's plans bear fruit and Lucasta is soon besieged by admirers. He hadn't expected that he and she would open up to each other and grow closer, but there are many obstacles to overcome: his original plans for revenge, family secrets and their conflicting interests and desires. Jeremy is a people pleaser and fierce protector who longs for recognition from people who do not deem him worthy; Lucasta’s greatest desire is to perform her music, regardless of whether it is scandalous or whom she pleases…
If you like sweet and clean historical enemies to lovers stories with lovable protagonists, witty banter, touching moments, great world building, great character development, female empowerment and strong bonds of friendship, you will definitely enjoy this book!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
January 20, 2026
Lucasta and Jem
“Tell Me Sweet” is book nine in Misty Urban’s series Ladies Least Likely. This is a very interesting story about the son of a draper, Jem (Jeremiah), who lands in the position of an heir to a Marquess by the surprising death of his cousin. Opposite him is Lucasta, daughter of a vicar and a shunned daughter of nobility. These two had more in common than they thought, neither grew up as part of society and the unforgiving ton. Lucasta had few options being a poor relative, she was plucked from Bath at the behest of family to chaperone her cousin for a season in London. Both Jem and Lucasta were well written, well realized characters. I liked them both. Lucasta was a strong extremely talented singer and musician. I liked that she had drive and determination to sing on stage and open her own music conservatory. Jem was a smart businessman who understood fabrics and color. I liked his ability to discern what looked good on a woman and what was fashionable. I also liked his caring and protective nature. Both Jem and Lucasta had charitable hearts, which was nice. The story is well paced as Jem and Lucasta get to know one another. The road they travel is not easy or direct. Both of these characters’ inner dialogues are lengthy and at times emotional. There were many secondary characters, Lucasta had a close circle of friends and extended family. Jem had friends who showed him how to navigate society and a myriad of family members he cared for. They all added to the depth and heart of the the story. I really enjoyed this multilayered historical romance that is well written with an interesting cast of characters. This book fits into the Ladies Least Likely series. Be sure to read the afterwords at the very end which is quite informative. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“Tell Me Sweet” is book nine in Misty Urban’s series Ladies Least Likely. This is a very interesting story about the son of a draper, Jem (Jeremiah), who lands in the position of an heir to a Marquess by the surprising death of his cousin. Opposite him is Lucasta, daughter of a vicar and a shunned daughter of nobility. These two had more in common than they thought, neither grew up as part of society and the unforgiving ton. Lucasta had few options being a poor relative, she was plucked from Bath at the behest of family to chaperone her cousin for a season in London. Both Jem and Lucasta were well written, well realized characters. I liked them both. Lucasta was a strong extremely talented singer and musician. I liked that she had drive and determination to sing on stage and open her own music conservatory. Jem was a smart businessman who understood fabrics and color. I liked his ability to discern what looked good on a woman and what was fashionable. I also liked his caring and protective nature. Both Jem and Lucasta had charitable hearts, which was nice. The story is well paced as Jem and Lucasta get to know one another. The road they travel is not easy or direct. Both of these characters’ inner dialogues are lengthy and at times emotional. There were many secondary characters, Lucasta had a close circle of friends and extended family. Jem had friends who showed him how to navigate society and a myriad of family members he cared for. They all added to the depth and heart of the the story. I really enjoyed this multilayered historical romance that is well written with an interesting cast of characters. This book fits into the Ladies Least Likely series. Be sure to read the afterwords at the very end which is quite informative. Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An emotional enemies-to-lovers tale that kept me fully engaged.
Lucasta Lithwick, a poor relative living in Bath, is summoned to town to chaperone her cousin. Jeremiah Falstead, suddenly the new Lord Rudyard, stumbles into society life and—without meaning to—becomes its darling. His sharp wit earns him the nickname “Smart Jeremy.” After overhearing one of Lucasta’s unflattering observations, Jem resolves to teach her a lesson.
Lucasta dreams of opening a music school, fueled by her deep passion for singing and performing. Even with the hope of an inheritance from her aunt, her goal feels far from certain. Fortunately, she has her loyal circle of friends, the Gorgons, to support her.
What begins as sparring and pride slowly transforms into desire. Beneath Lucasta’s prim exterior is a spirited soul that matches Jem’s own, and soon he risks not only his secret but also his heart. Lucasta’s devotion to music and her willingness to fight for her dreams—almost at the cost of love—make her journey captivating. Together, they must decide if love is worth the risk of scandal or if happily ever after belongs only in the music of their dreams.
Misty Urban excels at weaving social issues into her romantic narratives, showing how status, gossip, and financial pressures shape every choice her characters make. This story is lively, full of twists and emotional resonance, blending themes of societal expectation, family obligation, personal growth, and love.
I can’t wait to read more about the Gorgons in future installments. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lucasta Lithwick, a poor relative living in Bath, is summoned to town to chaperone her cousin. Jeremiah Falstead, suddenly the new Lord Rudyard, stumbles into society life and—without meaning to—becomes its darling. His sharp wit earns him the nickname “Smart Jeremy.” After overhearing one of Lucasta’s unflattering observations, Jem resolves to teach her a lesson.
Lucasta dreams of opening a music school, fueled by her deep passion for singing and performing. Even with the hope of an inheritance from her aunt, her goal feels far from certain. Fortunately, she has her loyal circle of friends, the Gorgons, to support her.
What begins as sparring and pride slowly transforms into desire. Beneath Lucasta’s prim exterior is a spirited soul that matches Jem’s own, and soon he risks not only his secret but also his heart. Lucasta’s devotion to music and her willingness to fight for her dreams—almost at the cost of love—make her journey captivating. Together, they must decide if love is worth the risk of scandal or if happily ever after belongs only in the music of their dreams.
Misty Urban excels at weaving social issues into her romantic narratives, showing how status, gossip, and financial pressures shape every choice her characters make. This story is lively, full of twists and emotional resonance, blending themes of societal expectation, family obligation, personal growth, and love.
I can’t wait to read more about the Gorgons in future installments. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2026
I have read all the books in this series and they are wonderful. They can be read out of order but trust me better read in order. I love the Gorgon’s a nasty to start a nickname for a group of friends. If one is very lucky, you will have a friends like these. I have to say I had a hard time getting into this story, which is unusual for the other books I’ve read by Misty. I don’t like mean or people who put others down or cause them to feel bad. Both Lucasta and Jem were doing this to each other. Lucasta has been put down by her family as a poor relation and made to wear out of date dress and to feel kept. They didn’t feel her music and singing was worth talking about while it was extraordinary. Jem was never meant to me part of society and only is now due to his cousins' death. He feels he must meet all of society's must dos to keep the ton happy so they will continue shopping at his store. The story was interesting but seemed overly long to me. It dragged on with both their past and a lot of characters. It is a very slow burn romance, with a lot of twists and turns. I love the children of both the orphanage and Jem’s family. If you keep reading, it gets better and has a good ending too. I disliked a lot of the people in this book which means the author did her job well as the villains are very nasty. There is a lot going on with both our main characters and others too. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This London Season of 1785 romance shows what it costs to be visible in society, and who controls that visibility.
It’s told from the POV of Lucasta Lithwick and Jeremiah “Jem” Falstead. She is strong, grounded, observant, and quietly defiant. She is a 'poor relation', socially vulnerable, and constantly required to be grateful, restrained, and invisible but she is not passive. She is intelligent, morally clear, and deeply talented, especially in music which is central to who she is. Music is her source of identity.
Jeremiah Falstead has risen into power rather than inheriting it. He wields influence fluently and often thoughtlessly, convinced that control is the same as protection. His charm and intelligence are real, but so are the consequences of his actions. Watching those consequences unfold is a major engine of the plot.
The central conflict between Lucasta and Jem is ideological. They fundamentally disagree about power, responsibility, and consent.
Plotwise, the book is very grounded in the social mechanics of the time period. Gossip, reputation, invitations, patronage, and money are treated as forces that shape people’s lives.
This book takes the roles of independence and choice very seriously. The prose is very well executed, and Lucasta in particular exhibits real wit.
This is a character driven story that is entertaining and its satisfying ending is hard earned!
It’s told from the POV of Lucasta Lithwick and Jeremiah “Jem” Falstead. She is strong, grounded, observant, and quietly defiant. She is a 'poor relation', socially vulnerable, and constantly required to be grateful, restrained, and invisible but she is not passive. She is intelligent, morally clear, and deeply talented, especially in music which is central to who she is. Music is her source of identity.
Jeremiah Falstead has risen into power rather than inheriting it. He wields influence fluently and often thoughtlessly, convinced that control is the same as protection. His charm and intelligence are real, but so are the consequences of his actions. Watching those consequences unfold is a major engine of the plot.
The central conflict between Lucasta and Jem is ideological. They fundamentally disagree about power, responsibility, and consent.
Plotwise, the book is very grounded in the social mechanics of the time period. Gossip, reputation, invitations, patronage, and money are treated as forces that shape people’s lives.
This book takes the roles of independence and choice very seriously. The prose is very well executed, and Lucasta in particular exhibits real wit.
This is a character driven story that is entertaining and its satisfying ending is hard earned!
Review of advance copy
4.4
We have Lucasta Lithwick talent Extradanaire except she doesn’t realize it! She has been whisked from Bath to chaperone her young cousin and treated and dressed like a poor relation!
She makes a very astute observation about one “Smart Jeremy!” He of course as Mr Jeremiah Falstead no one cares what he thought or said but he is not Lord Rudyard heir to the Earl of Payne!
But Jeremiah aka Jem has secrets that are not his own! He deserves to cultivate favor with a very fickle Ton for when those secrets are exposed!
Lucasta has secrets of her own and ones that she she been kept in the dark about!
Her passion is music and one day she wants to open a music conservatory!
She visits the foundling home and passes on her gift and instruction to the girls there!
She is unaware that Jem is on the board there, they connect and meet! They have far more in common then they realize as both their secrets start to unfold! Because of the money her “family” is sure to be settled on Lucasta she has two more suitors among her cousins!
But the heart wants what and who it wants! But can Lucasta give up her dream of singing and address the bet she has participated in and marry the man of her dreams? Impossible!
But life and live will always offer surprises and how we adapt define us! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from Booksprout for my unbiased opinion!
We have Lucasta Lithwick talent Extradanaire except she doesn’t realize it! She has been whisked from Bath to chaperone her young cousin and treated and dressed like a poor relation!
She makes a very astute observation about one “Smart Jeremy!” He of course as Mr Jeremiah Falstead no one cares what he thought or said but he is not Lord Rudyard heir to the Earl of Payne!
But Jeremiah aka Jem has secrets that are not his own! He deserves to cultivate favor with a very fickle Ton for when those secrets are exposed!
Lucasta has secrets of her own and ones that she she been kept in the dark about!
Her passion is music and one day she wants to open a music conservatory!
She visits the foundling home and passes on her gift and instruction to the girls there!
She is unaware that Jem is on the board there, they connect and meet! They have far more in common then they realize as both their secrets start to unfold! Because of the money her “family” is sure to be settled on Lucasta she has two more suitors among her cousins!
But the heart wants what and who it wants! But can Lucasta give up her dream of singing and address the bet she has participated in and marry the man of her dreams? Impossible!
But life and live will always offer surprises and how we adapt define us! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from Booksprout for my unbiased opinion!
January 20, 2026
It was really nice to come across a story that is longer and more well rounded than a lot of books being released today. This story covers many societal issues, including slavery, prejudice against colour and disability, class differences, and women choosing independence. It gives you a lot to think about beyond just the love story, which slowly grows throughout the book.
I really enjoyed the preconceptions the main characters had about each other, and how they eventually saw past them and realised what they both truly wanted. Our hero is extremely protective, but it raises the question of whether it is always for the right reasons. The heroine is mentally independent, even if she currently relies on her family for her living.
There are plenty of supporting characters, including scheming uncles, cousins attempting to force a marriage, close friends who have her back, and a wide mix of family on both sides of the blanket. This is a sweet, clean story about a couple navigating the Georgian ton when neither of them quite fits.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed the preconceptions the main characters had about each other, and how they eventually saw past them and realised what they both truly wanted. Our hero is extremely protective, but it raises the question of whether it is always for the right reasons. The heroine is mentally independent, even if she currently relies on her family for her living.
There are plenty of supporting characters, including scheming uncles, cousins attempting to force a marriage, close friends who have her back, and a wide mix of family on both sides of the blanket. This is a sweet, clean story about a couple navigating the Georgian ton when neither of them quite fits.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
I adore enemies to lovers stories and this one does not disappoint. Though some of the banter seemed a bit confusing , especially at the beginning with lineages and such, it really was a rip-roaring tale of who should be in control of their lives.I totally understood Jem’s need to control his family, but how he did it with his sister was a bit bullish. Lucasta loves music, almost to the point of losing a HEA she really wanted. It was interesting how all the characters were intertwined , the secrets they held(some were a doozy that shocked me) and how the author worked it all out. The motto should be make your self happy and not society. For those looking down on you are NEVER important. Very sweet with delicious kisses and no crass language (thank you author!) Lucasta and Jem have a place in my heart just for them!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
From antidote to diamond
Lucasta is the poor cousin living with relatives. She lives for her music, but she had to abandon her position as a music teacher to chaperone her cousin’s come-out in London. When a dandy’s cutting remarks provoke her ire, she and her friends receive the appellation of Gorgons. Instead of protesting, the quartet of young ladies decide to make the name their own. The dandy, heir to a marquessate, decides to take his revanche by dressing Lucasta as a diamond and assuring her popularity, meaning afterwards to turn against her. However, he is stunned by the results.
This book describes spot on the games and cruelty of the ton. Lucasta is not subservient and docile like most women of the time. She is strong, resilient, independent, determined to devote her life to her music. She will not compromise even if she has to sacrifice the love of her life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Lucasta is the poor cousin living with relatives. She lives for her music, but she had to abandon her position as a music teacher to chaperone her cousin’s come-out in London. When a dandy’s cutting remarks provoke her ire, she and her friends receive the appellation of Gorgons. Instead of protesting, the quartet of young ladies decide to make the name their own. The dandy, heir to a marquessate, decides to take his revanche by dressing Lucasta as a diamond and assuring her popularity, meaning afterwards to turn against her. However, he is stunned by the results.
This book describes spot on the games and cruelty of the ton. Lucasta is not subservient and docile like most women of the time. She is strong, resilient, independent, determined to devote her life to her music. She will not compromise even if she has to sacrifice the love of her life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2026
Delicious
Smothered by society’s expectations and her aunt’s unreasonable demands, Lucasta Lithwick has reached the end of her patience after being inadvertently insulted with a demeaning moniker issued by Jeremy Rudyard. He has referred Lucasta and her brilliant friends to the Gorgon sisters. Merely a draper’s son who acquired the status of Viscount late in life, Jeremy is on a mission to protect his unknown but vulnerable family by acquiring wealth.
Urban’s elegant prose, wealth of fascinating characters and verbal exchanges that reveal not only the characters’ intelligence and impeccable lexicon, but the author’s as well, enrich the entire novel.
Enjoy the battle of wills between the two formidable MC’s, before they discover that they have something in common…compassion for the disadvantaged. The author’s latest endeavor is akin to exquisite fare at a 5 star Michelin restaurant. It’s meant to be savored. Kudos to the chef!
I have received an ARC from OHB and I am leaving an unbiased review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Oh, I do love a novel that starts at a simmer, then builds to a slow boil, and then becomes nearly impossible to put down!
Tell Me Sweet started slowly, introducing so much of Lucasta and Jem's lives and the world around them. But, oh, when the story really kicked in, it pulled me in, and I did not want to let it go. And then I slowed my pace so that it wouldn't end too quickly. It was that good.
The twists, the turns, the barbs, the tears, and so much more reminded me of why I love Ms. Urban's writing style. I can't wait for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tell Me Sweet started slowly, introducing so much of Lucasta and Jem's lives and the world around them. But, oh, when the story really kicked in, it pulled me in, and I did not want to let it go. And then I slowed my pace so that it wouldn't end too quickly. It was that good.
The twists, the turns, the barbs, the tears, and so much more reminded me of why I love Ms. Urban's writing style. I can't wait for the next one!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2026
When I started this book, I didn’t want to carry on. I am not a fan of people being mean and underhanded, and this caught me by surprise. However, I really like reading Misty Urban's book, and I knew I would get the satisfaction from this book that I was looking for. Lucasta has been made to feel small by her society family, and Jem has been made to feel he has to over-compensate for his beginnings out of society. In getting to know each other, they bring different points of view to each other through their misunderstandings as they navigate society.
Review of advance copy
This is a truly enjoyable read with several layers of storylines about social as well as personal issues. Wrong first impressions about each other until they learned there was more to them than what was initially presented.
I love the Gorgons! Can’t wait to read about their love stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love the Gorgons! Can’t wait to read about their love stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 13, 2026
A strong story with plenty of twists and turns! Great plot, well written and wholey entertaining. There are plenty of characters to love, shake your head at or chuckle about. Well paced and excellent read.
January 13, 2026
An enjoyable read in the style of My Fair Lady or Clueless Jem wants to reinvent Lucasta making a wallflower into a diamond. Only his plan backfires as revenge turns into admiration and desire.
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