A Bewildered Bachelor

The Gentlemen's Gamble

by Holli Jo Monroe

The bet was simple. The plan was perfect. The result was bewildering.
To win a high-stakes wager, Ambrose Hartley must find a wife, preferably one who will help secure his ideal future. Hardened by past disappointment, he is avoiding fickle emotions by focusing on a logical list of requirements. His plans include a serious courtship, a suitable partner, and a predictable life.

Susanna Fenton is unpredictable, unsuitable, and rarely serious. A contented spinster, she believes love is the only proper reason to surrender her freedom. Having known Ambrose since childhood, she doesn’t hesitate to mock his plan. But as she watches him court eligible ladies, she begins to wonder if what she feels isn’t sisterly concern but jealousy.

As Ambrose’s plan unravels, Susanna worries that she will never measure up to his impossible standards. With their mutual misunderstandings mounting and six hundred pounds on the line, can they find the courage to risk their hearts for a future they never thought to plan?

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

250 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 5, 2026

Reviews

[Melissa’s Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

All the stars for A Bewildered Bachelor! I’ve adored The Gentlemen’s Gamble series & this book is a definite new favorite. Holli Jo Monroe delivers a brilliant she falls first, opposites attract romance that’s delectably charming. I loved Susanna & the way she absolutely befuddles Ambrose at every turn. It’s a swoon worthy childhood friends to more Regency with sizzling kisses & witty banter that had me grinning from ear to ear.

Six years earlier, Ambrose Hartley made a rash bet with six other friends when it looked like their ship might sink. Each must find a wife before the last man does unless they want to cough up 600 pounds. As Ambrose becomes one of the last men standing, he needs to desperately find a wife. Being the logical man he is, he makes a list requirements for a wife. What he doesn’t bet on is Susanna, the charming, exasperating woman who’s teased him since they were children. She invades his every thought & makes choosing a wife all the more difficult. When they’re invited to his sister’s house party for the purpose of Ambrose finding a wife, suddenly he begins to see Susanna in a new light, but he can’t let irrational emotions get in the way, right?

Susanna Fenton has always liked Ambrose, but doesn’t see herself settling down any time soon. She’s unpredictable, uniquely forthright, & determined to only marry for love, & very much an unsuitable choice according to Ambrose & his list. But, Susanna finds herself more & more attracted to the infuriating man & sees all the ways she compliments him, if only she can convince him to give her a chance.

I absolutely adored this story! Susanna is witty, flirtatious, & an absolute delight. I enjoyed the delicious banter between her & Ambrose as they match wits. Ambrose can’t see what’s right before his eyes until it’s almost too late. I loved him finally reconciling his feelings with his darn list. The rain scene is one of my all time favorites, & I adored how it all played out.

Definitely a must read for Regency romance fans! Though each book can be read as a standalone, highly recommend reading the in order. Can’t wait for the last book! I received an advanced copy from the author, but also purchased in Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are completely my own & provided voluntarily.

[Emma | meadowroselibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘬𝘦𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘮𝘪𝘭𝘦? 𝘐𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘧 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘴𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘱𝘳𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘦 𝘫𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘪𝘮 𝘵𝘰 𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘥. 𝘉𝘶𝘵, 𝘢𝘴 𝘶𝘴𝘶𝘢𝘭 𝘸𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘚𝘶𝘴𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘢 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘪𝘯𝘷𝘰𝘭𝘷𝘦𝘥, 𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥."

What a perfect regency romance!! This is only my second book by Holli, but oh how I love her writing!!

Susanna was like no other FMC I've read. 😅 She is so headstrong and stubborn, her love for Ambrose made her push so hard for him, it was incredible!

This was a true slooooooow burn. 😍 It took Ambrose almost the entire book for him to realize he loves her. 😅 But the plot was so good and funny, Susanna so persistent, I didn't even mind!

This has been an amazing series, and I highly recommend it if you enjoy a clean, closed-door, no spice Regency romance!! 🩷

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

[Sarah's Reading Nook · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review to come!

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fifth book in the series! Ambrose is looking for a wife but he does it by making lists in his notebook. His wife must meet certain criteria. Susanna is his longtime friend and does not meet the criteria. In fact, she bothers him and teases him to no end. Susanna likes him and makes up her mind to behave and be like the woman he wants. But things don’t go as planned.
I really enjoyed this story! I loved Ambrose and Susanna’s relationship. Although I felt bad for Susanna at times. There were a lot of fun moments between them. And good tension. I loved the ending! Overall, a great story and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bewildered Bachelor
(The Gentlemen’s Gamble Book 5)
by: Holli Jo Monroe
@hollijo.writes

••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

~The bet was simple. The plan was perfect. The result was bewildering…

“Sometimes the best things in life are not planned.”

-Oh my goodness, Friends, I am here to say, that the Gentlemen’s Gamble Series is a top read series this year for me! I simply adore each story within! A Bewildered Bachelor, by @hollijo.writes is dear book 5 in this series and it is such a delight! You see, to win a high-stakes wager, dear Ambrose Hartley must find a wife, preferably one who will help secure his ideal future. But hardened a bit by past disappointment, he chooses to avoid fickle emotions by focusing on a “seemingly” logical list of requirements. His plans include a serious courtship, a suitable partner, and a predictable life but, his plans begin to unravel with Susanna Fenton. She is a dynamite, unpredictable, unsuitable, and rarely serious. A contented spinster, who dearly believes love is the only proper reason to surrender her freedom. So, having known Ambrose “Rosie,” since
childhood, she doesn’t hesitate to mock his plan. What proceeds had me smiling, laughing, swooning, shaking my head, and wanting to read faster with these two souls fighting off more deeper realizations and feelings for perhaps a spark deeper for the other. But most of all, I loved the difference for the better these two are for another and together! I loved seeing Ambrose come to see what love is and what he is not willing to give up most of all! This is a delightful story filled with such heart! Worth the read, of course!🙌🏻📚❤️

“The course of true love never did run smooth.”

•Content: mild social drinking, past disappointment, death of loved ones-from side characters-mentioned on page, minor accident involving a broken carriage wheel, very mild potential peril type scenerio, no language, kisses only (some short; some more passionate).

-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

#abewilderedbschelor
#hollijowrites
#thegentlemensgambleseries
#allaboutthebestreads

[Abby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay, this book was enjoyable. I liked the banter and insults (ofc) buuuuuut, halfway through I got a wee bit annoyed for a bit. Susanna was so delusional to fault 😭 Like girl is more delulu than me and that is most certainly saying something 😭😭
But it picked up again after her delusions had to be set aside.
Also Rosie was so.. i don’t even know. At times he was great, and at other times I wanted to smack him because he was being an absolute idiot.
But all in all, I liked it quite a bit.
4/5 ⭐️

[Jesica · Rating 5 out of 5]

“The bet was simple. The plan was perfect. The result was bewildering…”

Oh this one was just plain fun & Ambrose was definitely bewildered… for all of his planning and lists he sure was confused when it came to Susanna. It’s the fifth book in the Gentlemen’s Gamble series with each book written by a different author. It’s such a fun premise… 7 friends make a wager on who will marry last. The last one to marry will pay each of the others a 100 pounds. It’s years later and five friends have married & It’s time for Ambrose to make plan & get married. So he makes a list of all the qualities he wants in a wife and sets out to marry her… only things never go as planned. And when Susanna, his unconventional sister’s best friend enters his life his plans begin to unravel. Susanna not only mocks his plans but she discovers she might have feelings for Ambrose & of course chaos ensues… It’s sweet & swoony and the lake & library kisses were 🤌🏼🔥🫠 It’s full of reckless driving, lots of lists & a very bewildered bachelor. This is such a fun series but I’d definitely suggest reading them in order 🥰

“You were never part of the plan.”

“Sometimes the best things in life are not planned."

[Emily Cronk · Rating 3 out of 5]

Have y'all read any of the books in the Gentlemen's Gamble series yet?? While I haven't read all of them yet, the ones I have read I have loved. Yesterday I finished A Bewildered Bachelor and let me just tell you - it is such a great addition to the series!

Ambrose and Susanna are complete opposites, so it was fun to watch their story unfold. While Ambrose is very detail oriented and has a plan for everything, Susanna is more free spirited and outspoken. They really were perfect for each other and I was so happy when everything finally worked out for them.

Other things to love about this story in addition to being the most perfect opposites attract romance:
• Ambrose's list
• childhood friends
• the house party
• the kiss in the rain
• the boat ride
• architecture
• the character growth

This really was a such a good story! If it isn't on your TBR lists already, it needs to be. I have spoken.

Many thanks to the author for the early copy; all thoughts are my own.

[Annabelle Baker · Rating 4 out of 5]

SUSANNNAAAAA YOU QUEEN!!!!!
Ok I actually loved this book more than I thought I would!! I thought it would be more of a fluffy book that follows the series plot of the wager (which tbh is not my fav but it’s ok) but this one had me going crazy!!! Tugging heartstrings at 12am and kept me up reading. I felt like Susanna’s character grew so much. At first the plot I thought was too similar in a way to “Mr. Malcolm’s List” but it deviated so that was ok. Overall one of my favs in this series!!

[Coventry Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 5 in the Gentlemen’s Gamble. I have been reading these books all kinds of out of order. But the fun thing is. They aren’t dependent on you reading them in chronological order.

This was my first time reading a book by this author, but it won’t be the last. I do know that she does so much research on her books and she really knows her stuff.

I really enjoyed this book a lot, but was probably the most bugged by the MMC, Ambrose, in this book. He is so set on finding a wife and not making the same mistakes he made in a previous proposal that he pretty much throws logic to the wind. He has a list of requirements for a wife and is dead set on not deviating from the list. He’s downright oblivious.

Susanna is the FMC and definitely falls first. She comes up with a plan to be able to fall into all the check list that Ambrose had. However, that just isn’t her. She doesn’t fit into the boxes he has.

Seeing them come together and fight what is right in front of them, made me want to shake them. He does end up waking up and realizing what he’s missing. I loved seeing his mindset be able to change. I also enjoyed the humor and comedic moments that were thrown in there.

I would definitely recommend this book along with all of the books in this series. I only have two more left to catch up on.


- Disclaimer, I read this as a gifted advanced copy, but my thoughts are my own.

[Berly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in multi author The Gentlemen’s Gamble series. It is a kisses only Regency Era romance. These books can be read in any order if you don’t care about being spoiled as to who actually loses the bet and is the last to marry.

After each book, I think that one may be my favorite. But I really mean it with this one. There was something about the obliviousness of Ambrose that was endearing. I just loved him.

I feel that Holli Jo always adds something extra to her books. She sneaks in little extra bits of history or commonplace actions for that time that others don’t. I love that about her books.

I was so excited to get an advanced digital copy of this book. I am happily and eagerly leaving a review.

[Lyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5

Best regency I’ve read in a while. Susanna is a bit modern in her attitudes, but she was refreshingly realistic in her feelings, hopes, and actions, which made for an infinitely better read.

I did not like the faults list. Overdone (though much milder than usual), and in this case not much of a faults list at all. Certainly no cause to overreact or cause such deep hurt.

But I did like that Ambrose truly was bewildered and not bought in until the end. Especially since it was dual POV. That, combined with her jumping the gun, gave me strong second hand embarrassment but boy did it make for believable suspense.

The best part is that this is a new to me author. I’m running as fast as I can to grab more of her books. 🎉

[Brittnee · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

London 1816

👍:
-Dual POVs
-Childhood friendship 
-She falls first
-He's methodical & determined not to be swayed by emotions 
-She's unconventional & free-spirited 
-Character growth

*Received an ARC, opinions are my own.

[Kristi W - Book Love By Kristi · Rating 5 out of 5]

“So what is the plan for our marriage?” “Well, Mr. Hartley, I plan to be obnoxiously happy.” “How very strange, that is precisely my plan as well.”

This delightful childhood friends to more story has sister’s best friend, she falls first, and a house party. This was my first book by Holli Jo and I absolutely enjoyed it.

Ambrose is intelligent, determined, and a little stubborn. After disappointment and with time running out on the bet he is determined to stick with his list/plan. Enter Susanna with her outgoing, opinionated, unsuitable self. I loved that when Susanna wasn’t irritating him, she was baffling him. I enjoyed seeing Ambrose enlist his sister and brother into his plan (and the plans they had of their own!). Ambrose’s chat with Andrew was amazing. I loved how witty and charming Rosie was with Susanna once he acknowledged his feelings. Susanna is kind, witty, and feisty. I loved that she was honest and spoke her mind. I loved that she challenged Rosie and his list/plan at every turn. I loved her determination to prove she was a proper candidate for marriage to Ambrose. I enjoyed the growth that both Rosie and Susanna experienced and the connection they found with one another when the walls came down. I loved every minute of Rosie and Susanna’s story the head-butting, friendship, banter, and romance.

A few more quotes:
“Sentiment has destroyed many a man,” he said stiffly. “I will not let it rule me when I choose my wife. I will decide rationally.” She tsked. “A marriage without affection? That will never do for you.”

“Ambrose Hartley, do not stand there and pretend that you were not about to kiss me.”

“Careful, Mr. Hartley, a woman might get ideas from a look like that.” He smirked. “Perhaps you should get ideas.”

[Elizabeth S · Rating 4 out of 5]

Because of the impossible premise this series is based on, I had vowed not to read anymore of the books. Then I noticed that this one is written by an author I enjoyed in the past. At least this one doesn't mention visiting Paris in 1810, right in the middle of the Napoleonic War. The six friends made a pact while fearing for their lives in a ship rocked by storm-roiled waves, while returning to England from their Grand Tour. A wager was made, with the last to marry being the loser.

Ambrose was jilted once and decided to approach marriage more methodically, keeping notes on the characteristics to look for in a wife. More practical than sentimental. Several of his friends are already married by now (six years later), and he's frantic in his search, not wanting to be the loser in the wager. His fun-loving childhood friend, Susanna, cannot resist teasing him. You can imagine what happens.

I didn't quite understand the chemistry between the two, but I do like the author's writing.

[Katie (hiding in the pages) · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s been a while since I’ve read a she-falls-first love story, and this one is pure satisfaction. Clueless Ambrose has the perfect plan in place, but his sister’s best friend mocks him and the result is absolute bewilderment. Both Ambrose and Susanna find themselves confused, as they analyze feelings and situations, and I couldn’t help but immerse myself into every moment.

The stakes are high with the Gentlemen’s wager set years earlier in this opposites attract story and I adored the way Holli Jo Monroe created these amusing characters and awkward situations. Susanna is witty and independent and the perfect match for her completely opposite love interest in these Regency times.

I was able to listen to it on Libby and loved hearing it come to life. From start to finish, this one was sheer happiness.

[Sarah Woodrome · Rating 3 out of 5]

Book five in the gentleman’s gamble featuring Ambrose and Susanna. Ambrose is nearing to be the last one in the gamble and this losing 600 pounds to his friends. Furthermore, he was hurt by a former lady and this has completely foregone love in a marriage and has begun to look for a list of qualities. Susanna, on the other hand, has performed for seasons and has come to the conclusion that she would rather be by herself than in a loveless marriage that requires her to perform.

Out of the five I have read, regrettably, this one was my least favorite. For me, it was slow until the last 10%. Probably still a little too spicy for my grandma but it is a clean read, I promise.

[Franchely · Rating 5 out of 5]

At first I found Susanna a little bit annoying, but as I kept reading I started to like her a lot. She’s very funny and cute, I think after 60% I was found smiling throughout the book. The romance and when Ambrose started to feel jealous and notice his feelings towards Susie made me giggle, I loved them😭. This story and Rowan’s story are my favorite so far💖

[Kate Frisch · Rating 5 out of 5]

The second to last book, but I didn't read in order, so it's the last for me in a series of six stories. Poor Ambrose was painfully obtuse, but it was a sweet read, and again, grateful for books that can sell a good love story without relying on sex.

[Yara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ok i did not love this😭

Like it wasn’t unbearable to read, I was entertained.

But I just didn’t like how the story unfolded at all.

My girl Susanna was CHASING this man so much like it got embarrassing at some points💀. He rejected her sm times it was so bad😭

And Ambrose was SO dumb too like after a whole kiss he was still wondering if she liked him like what r we doin

And after everything he apologized like once and she was like “ok great” like where is ur pride girl

Anyway, not a horrible read but def not my favourite

2.8⭐️

[JTot · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable

Fresh characters with unique personalities and dialogue. By the way was there a little homage to both P&P movies? White shirts, lakes and Greek temples in the rain…

[Joelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

In A Bewildered Bachelor you get opposites attract, best friend's brother, she falls first and more all in the Regency era. Ambrose and his lists with Susanna straightforward and independent nature sure make for an enjoyable and enticing read. Ambrose really is the bewildered bachelor as he watches his friend treat him differently than before.

Multiple instances befuddle him, while Susanna's heart is just confused. But there's something there and watching that bloom throughout the story was heartwarming and more. From great side characters to the Regency time setting Holli Jo Monroe delivers a great addition to The Gentlemen's Gamble series.

If you enjoy audiobooks, this is a great choice for your next listen.

[Sheila (sheilasbookreviewer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the fifth installment of The Gentlemen’s Gamble, the stakes are higher than ever! This series follows seven men in a desperate, high-speed race to the altar to avoid losing a massive wager. I’ve read two so far, and they are an absolute delight.
This novel features two leads who couldn't be more different. Ambrose Hartley is the definition of "by the book" because he’s serious, rigid, and constantly making lists. With his friends already marrying off or getting betrothed, Ambrose is panicking. His solution? Find a wife immediately, even if love isn't part of the equation.

Enter his childhood friend, Susanna Fenton. She is his polar opposite: opinionated, playful, and always ready with a witty retort. While she’s publicly embraced her "spinsterhood" and lives life to the fullest, she secretly holds out hope for a true love match. When she discovers Ambrose’s cold-blooded plan to find a bride, she decides to sabotage his efforts with every shenanigan in her arsenal.
Poor Ambrose is completely outmatched by her antics! As Susanna realizes she’s falling for her old friend, she finds that Ambrose is hilariously dense when it comes to her clues. Between the laugh-out-loud humor and the obvious jealousy as they watch each other flirt with rivals, their journey is a total rollercoaster.

This Regency romance is a beautiful reminder that sometimes, the person you’ve been searching for has been standing right in front of you the whole time. If you love the genre, this series is a must-read!

[Ru4repeat · Rating 5 out of 5]

That was no way to get a wife..."

"That was no way to get a wife. Passion was too unpredictable and could easily lead to a lifetime of misery."
"Proximity as children does not grant you liberties or insights into my life. Do not mistake past familiarity for present friendship."
"She was not the least bit cowed and spoke with conviction instead of contrition."
"Jealousy grew in fields of affection. If Ambrose was jealous, it was a sure proof of his regard.“
"I thought securing a wife would be simple and now I am in a mess.” “The course of true love never did run smooth.” “Is that Shakespeare?” “It is, and it is also a very true sentiment.”

[Deon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I read this on #KindleUnlimited

[Jessica McAvoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked it, maybe my favorite of the series. Good character development. It was a fun, unique relationship. Ambrose is the typical unaware guy stumbling through life. Susanna is your bubbly unaware girl. I liked the relationship progression. I like that the relationship built, and there was all the messy confusion that sometimes accompanies finding your missing piece. I like in this book it listed the other friends and their status. I don’t like how the series is so disconnected from each book. There is not a lot of interaction, which I guess makes sense given the different novels, but it seems like there is so much banter and plot left aside because of that missing interaction. Susanna is a bit reckless with the driving, and real bold for reading someone else’s journal, but if you ignore that she is great.

Ambrose is the secretary of an Earl and seeking a wife to not owe 600 pounds to his friends. He has composed a list. Susanna is his sister’s best friend. They have known each other since childhood. He feels like she is mischievous and makes fun of him all the time. She “borrows” his book with the list, and to ignore further interaction he just buys a new one and recreates his journal. She reads his list and thinks it is crazy, focusing too much on trivial matters (no novels?). She watches him interact with the females on his list and tells him he is not choosing well. He rebuffs her and soon finds he is not good at finding a wife. Susanne finds she likes him, and is jealous of the other girls. After he goes to propose to a women he had been courting and over hears her yelling at her family that she will not accept him, he flees her house and goes to his brother and sister for help. His brother explains that the girl likely encouraged him for various reasons one being that she liked the attention (foreign treatment to me, but there are girls like that). His sister, Grace, organizing a house party with the two remaining females on his list. She invites Susanna as they are best friends. At the house party Susanna tries to highlight the attributes she has on his list. She reads a random book about roads. At one point she flirts with the older brother to try and get Ambrose jealous. It works in part as he demands to ride home with her where they crack a wheel and get stranded in a rain storm. It leads to a sweet first kiss, but Ambrose has revealed he made a list of why Susanna would not be a good wife (to keep him focused), but Susanna is understandably hurt. Grace steps in and assists in organizing time for them to speak together. Ambrose realizes he loves her, and in looking at his list about Susanna he realizes it is a pretty weak list (she had dimples and drives crazy). He gives a cute apology listing all the things he has to apologize for. They get engaged and he promises to marry last so she doesn’t think the only reason he choose her was to avoid paying the bet. After a few months with the last friend, Leonard, showing no interest in marriage, Susanna works with the local Vicar to begin announcing the bands. Ambrose is surprised when he hears their name announced. Book ends with them excited to be married in two weeks.

“Requirements for a wife: 1. Intelligent, able to converse on a variety of topics. 2. Excellent at domestic economy. 3. Forgiving and charitable. 4. Good hostess - Graceful, well-mannered, amiable, etc. 5. Easy temperament, is not forever arguing 6. Gentle and delicate sensibilities 7. Dowery of at least $5,000. 8. Reading habit, not novels 9. No older than 3 and 20. 10. Pleasing countenance 11. Honest. For a moment, Ambrose considered adding pleasing laugh.” Chapter 1, 11:06

“When she was first out in society, Susanna had tied herself into knots trying to be what everyone wanted, what they expected. But being a perfect paragon of womanly virtues was tiring. She was never able to hold the facade for more than a few outings. Gentlemen were inevitably disappointed when they discovered her true nature and stopped seeking her company. Such rejection had been painful, but eventually she learned to embrace her flawed nature and cease searching for acceptance from those who did not understand her.” Chapter 2, 36:44

“She wanted a love that was ardent, and undeniable…she wanted to be loved for every part of herself.” Chapter 24, 5:26:54

[Asianbibliophile · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Bewildered Bachelor is the 5th book in The Gentlemen’s Gamble Series.

What happens when you have 7 friends on a ship on the English Channel, in the middle of a storm, and they are all convinced they might actually die? They form a wager of course (such an early 20's male move). The wager? Whomever marries last owes the others £600.

Since Thomas Denby got married, Ambrose Hartley has been actively trying to find a wife through careful planning and looking for women who met his list of requirements. However, Susanna Fenton is someone he can’t possibly plan for.

Ambrose (Rosie to his friends) has been unlucky in love to the point of having some trauma about it. So, he is intent on finding a woman who meets his list so avoid his past fumbles. However, every woman he meets throughout the season falls short of his expectations. And then he keeps running into Susanna Fenton.

Susanna Fenton is best friends with Ambrose’s older sister and has known him since he was a child. She is two years older than him and enjoys teasing him. She is also a 28-year-old spinster who plans to only marry for love since she is to inherit from her aunt. When she finds out that Ambrose is looking for a wife and has a list of all thing, she steals his notebook as a way to tease him.
Susanna finds Ambrose’s list ridiculous. He isn’t going to find anyone who meets these requirements and all the women who he is trying to court are not a good fit for him. After many interactions throughout the season Ambrose is still single and Susanna has realized she may have feelings for him... drat.

With Ambrose’s sister (and her best friend) planning a house party to help Ambrose find a wife, Susanna takes the leap to try and show him that she is exactly what he needs and that she can match his list (at least the reasonable expectations anyway). Ambrose doesn’t see it coming at all! Susanna irritates him so much, he could not possibly fall for her!

Ambrose: He is s fun male lead to read. I loved how he would lose his composure around Susanna and all filters would go out the window with him. Toward to beginning of the book, he only listens to his head and not his heart. It takes him a bit, but he does eventually listen to what his heart is telling him.

Susanna: OH MY GOSH she is so relatable! She is independent, opinionated, and seriously out of practice when it comes to flirting. I related to her so hard! I loved it when she teased Ambrose and flustered him. But I also loved that she was trying to show him her good points to get him to notice her. She is a joy to read!

Tropes:

•Older sister’s best friend.
•Best friend’s brother
•Older female lead
•She falls first; he falls harder.
•Opposites attract
•Childhood connection
•Meddling older siblings

Favorite quotes:

•“Sometimes the best things are those you can’t plan.”

•She could not possibly --
It was Rosie!
But this was not sisterly affection --
He had much to recommend him --
They were forever arguing!
With each unfinished thought, her heart beat faster. Suddenly one thought began to repeat. A simple truth. A truth impossible but undeniable.
She cared for him, much more than was proper for old childhood friends.
Susanna Fenton was infatuated with Ambrose Hartley.
How very inconvenient.

•“I did not seek you out. I merely waited for you and will escort you to the room.”
Her lips quirked. “I see. Does that mean you intend to stay by my side all evening?”
Her smile grew as she looked up at him. A dimple appeared on both cheeks. He had never seen this particular smile. He wanted it to stay. Without thinking, he nodded. He would happily stay by her side.

•How strange that he welcomed her presence when he was still confused and annoyed by her behavior.

•That dimple haunts my dreams.

•...he looked down, transfixed by her nearness, by the gentle curl of her eyelashes and the softness of her lips. The drops of rain clung to her skin like his hands clung to her waist. The fleck of green in her eyes seemed to beckon him closer. There was a tenderness in her expression that was undeniable.

•“So what is the plan for our marriage?”
“Well, Mr. Hartley, I plan to be obnoxiously happy.”
“How very strange, that is precisely my plan as well.”

[Always Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

📚-4 🎧-4 🌶️-1 🤬-0

Another very enjoyable book in the series!

This was the first book where I really felt like the man was on the hunt solely because he did NOT want to lose the bet with his friends. Ambrose was pretty much willing to settle for anyone he could tolerate. He did have a list of things he was looking for, but honestly, it didn’t seem to hold much weight as long as the relationship seemed tolerable.

Ambrose definitely wasn’t the most loving or romantic gentleman either. After reading some of the other reviews, I wasn’t even sure if I was going to like him. But I actually really liked watching him grow throughout the book. He did a pretty solid job of growing up and becoming a better person, and by the end, he was actually pretty cute and endearing.

Susanna was basically the exact opposite of Ambrose. She would only marry if it was for love, and absolutely no other reason would be good enough. She was quirky, funny, and didn’t take life too seriously, which made her such a fun contrast to Ambrose.

This was very much an opposites-attract story, and even their attraction to each other seemed to surprise them. Once Susanna realized she had feelings for Ambrose, she didn’t even really know how to act on them. And then there was Ambrose, who was so easily confused that he was pretty much oblivious to all of Susanna’s attempts.

I really enjoyed watching these two figure each other out. Another fun addition to the series, and I’m definitely still enjoying this whole collection!

Audiobook: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Narration: Dual narration

Really good narrators. It was easy to listen to and once again I loved the proper way that they spoke. It really transported me back in time. They had good emotion and brought the story to life in a very enjoyable way

Spice: 🌶️
Spicy Chapter: None

Closed door but it was not lacking in emotional buildup and tension. Romance was appropriate for the time period.

Language
F Word Count: 0

Clean language - There was no swearing throughout the entire book.


My Rating Scales
———————————————————————
1/5 Spice
Very clean romance with little to no sexual content. Expect mostly kissing, emotional tension, and sweet romantic moments.

2/5 Spice
Some sexual content and chemistry, but nothing overly explicit. Expect fade-to-black scenes or lightly detailed intimate moments rather than graphic descriptions.

3/5 Spice
Open-door romance with moderate detail, but the scenes aren’t excessive or overly graphic. Expect a few moderately descriptive scenes that support the story rather than dominate it.

4/5 Spice
Definitely a spicy read with multiple open-door scenes and explicit detail. (🌶️) The intimate scenes are longer, more descriptive, and play a larger role in the overall story. (🫑)You’ll also find frequent sexual tension and references, including attraction, arousal, fantasies, dreams, and suggestive thoughts throughout the book.

5/5 Spice
Heavy spice with frequent, highly explicit scenes and graphic detail throughout the book. Expect lengthy intimate scenes, strong sexual content, and a story where the spice is a major focus of the reading experience. For me, these books fall into the “smut” category rather than simply being “spicy.”
———————————————————————
0/5 Language
No profanity or crude language. F-word count: 0

1/5 Language
Occasional mild profanity. No F-words or explicit sexual language. F-word count: 0

2/5 Language
Frequent mild to moderate profanity, but still no F-words. F-word count: 0

3/5 Language
Mild swearing with occasional F-words but no explicit sexual language. Typical F-word count: 1–29

4/5 Language
Heavy profanity with frequent F-words and may also include some use of explicit sexual language. Typical F-word count: 30+

5/5 Language
Very heavy profanity with constant strong language, frequent F-words, and extensive explicit sexual language throughout the book. Typical F-word count: 50+

[Sharon the Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Another winner in the Gentleman's Gamble series.

I love a good confident, feisty, knows-who-she-is female main character. Susanna is just that, and more. She is open and honest and not afraid to speak her mine. She definitely is not the typical regency lady, saying what is expected, demurely being who everyone expects her to be- she is bold and sometimes impetuous to a fault. She tried being like the other ladies, but felt miserable. She is content with being a spinster since a love match does not seem to be in the cards for her.

"Nonsense. I do not hold with this notion that a lady must also be a weakling. It is nothing more that Society's attempt to keep women beholden to men."


On the other hand, Ambrose is a list maker. He wants predictability, a future that he has planned out, and has a list of qualities he wants in a wife that will help him achieve his goals. They are logical and written in a notebook alongside a list of candidates who appear to meet them. He has been burned by what he thought was love once before, and is not interested in trying that route again. He also has a list of flaws of his childhood friend, Susanna. And when Ambrose Hartley made a plan, nothing could keep him from executing it.

"Sentiment has destroyed many a man," he said stiffly. "I will not let it rule me when I choose my wife. I will decide rationally."

The problem is, Ambrose is in a time crunch. A wager with his friends that the last to marry owed the other six 100 pounds each is coming to reality as there are only 2 left. He must focus on the list and go about it methodically.

"He needed to get married. Why must love play any part of it."

She called him 'Rosie' which he detested as it was childish and they should be more formal now that they are older. They squabbled like siblings and getting him riled up was one her favorite pastimes. She even stole his notebook and refused to return it.

Oh, the hilarious and sometimes heartbreaking chaos that ensues; it had me laughing, cheering for her antics, wanting to scold him like a mother would, and my eyes widening in surprise at her boldness. A very inconvenient attraction is not in the plans, and though efforts to ignore it are attempted- you are kept wondering if the 2 would come to realize it as you see it blossoming. He felt like he was going crazy- he wanted to see her and avoid her at the same time. She was driving him mad, and she was also madly in love with him.

If you love friends to enemies to more, a regency romance laced with humor, opposites attract, and a good house party- you are in for a treat.

"It was possible he was letting his memory of the girl interfere with understanding of the woman."

"He had worked too hard and planned too carefully to let sentiment ruin his chance at finding his ideal wife."

"The course of true love never did run smooth."

"Sometimes the best things are those you can't plan."

I received a copy of the book from the author for my opinion.

[Holly (IG Hollys_Book_Musings) · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The course of true love never did run smooth."

A Bewildered Bachelor by Holli Jo Monroe

I love a good determined, feisty female main character, and Susanna is just that! If there ever were opposites attract, it would be Susanna and Ambrose.
They were made for each other, even if it took Ambrose FOREVER to realize it.

Ambrose has a list. A very good list. At least he thinks so. And a plan to find a lady to marry. But life never goes according to plan as he learns throughout this delightful clean Regency Romance.

I loved Susanna's plan to thwart Ambrose's plans and courtships of other ladies. They are a riot and I definitely smiled and giggled at many parts, especially knowing both of their perspectives.

Holli Jo has a beautifully unique voice in regency novels. I really enjoyed this second regency novel I've read of hers. If you haven't read her Snowbound Courtship, I definitely recommend it as well.
Be sure to pick up this next novel in the fun new series of The Gentlemen's Gamble.

A LIST of reasons to LOVE A Bewildered Bachelor:
The list
In the garden
Childhood friends
Looking at architecture designs
House party
Jealous MMC
“Lemonade”
In town
Flirting with the brother
Driving the gig
At the lake
His conversation with Andrew
Boat ride
New list
In the library

"You were never part of the plan."

"Are you mad?" he cried.
"Sometime," she called back as she urged the horse faster.

Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: passionate kissing
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: Mild-social drinking
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: characters attend church
Other: none

Book Info:
Series: The Gentlemen's Gamble book 5
Genre: Historical Romance; Regency Multi-author
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: March 5, 2026
Publisher: Indie
POV: Dual third person

Thank you to the author for the review copy. All thoughts are my own.