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The Debutante Dilemma
Lady Emily Calloway has everything a debutante could want, including a fairy tale engagement to a fabulously wealthy lord. Her wedding should be the highlight of the Season—until her fiancé’s older brother announces his own upcoming nuptials. Society is riveted to learn that the heir to a dukedom will marry an unknown American.
Seething with envy, Emily is burdened with the task of introducing her rival to London Society…and is shocked to discover her own attraction to the beautiful heiress.
Miss Rebecca Tremblay might have left a trail of broken hearts behind her in New York, but she is determined to make a fresh start in London. Marrying a marquess will settle her restless ways, if only she can deny her forbidden desires for sophisticated and elegant Emily.
If Emily and Rebecca yield to their passion for each other, they must make a choice that will change their futures forever. Will ambition prevail—or their hearts?
Seething with envy, Emily is burdened with the task of introducing her rival to London Society…and is shocked to discover her own attraction to the beautiful heiress.
Miss Rebecca Tremblay might have left a trail of broken hearts behind her in New York, but she is determined to make a fresh start in London. Marrying a marquess will settle her restless ways, if only she can deny her forbidden desires for sophisticated and elegant Emily.
If Emily and Rebecca yield to their passion for each other, they must make a choice that will change their futures forever. Will ambition prevail—or their hearts?
Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
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32 people want to read
About the author
Jane Walsh
8 books65 followersJane Walsh is a queer historical romance novelist published by Bold Strokes Books who loves everything Regency. She is delighted to have the opportunity to put her studies in history and costume design to good use by writing love stories. Jane’s happily ever after is centered on her wife and their cat and their cozy home together in Canada. You can find her at www.janewalshwrites.com and discover all her latest releases at www.boldstrokesbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews
January 24, 2026
I found it, upon the whole, a very pleasing story indeed. The scenes and sentiments were perfectly suited to the Regency period, and I was quite delighted by the attention paid to the gowns, ribbons, and the elegant arrangement of the hair. It seemed to me a tale very much concerned with awakening—of youthful hearts and minds discovering themselves as they move, sometimes willingly, and sometimes not, toward womanhood.
The narrative concerns itself with the delicate business of reconciling personal inclination with the formidable expectations of society, a task rendered especially complex for ladies, who must often learn the art of contentment before they are permitted the reality of choice. The difficulties faced were neither slight nor easily dismissed, and yet there was something most encouraging in the manner by which they were addressed, suggesting that happiness need not always be sacrificed to propriety.
For women of that age, freedom is too often a thing imagined rather than possessed, and thus such reflections feel particularly near to the heart. Life, after all, is rarely free of trial; yet still one is inclined to believe that hope remains, quietly and steadfastly, in spite of all.
I was kindly provided with a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley, for which I am most grateful, and I offer these thoughts in return.
The narrative concerns itself with the delicate business of reconciling personal inclination with the formidable expectations of society, a task rendered especially complex for ladies, who must often learn the art of contentment before they are permitted the reality of choice. The difficulties faced were neither slight nor easily dismissed, and yet there was something most encouraging in the manner by which they were addressed, suggesting that happiness need not always be sacrificed to propriety.
For women of that age, freedom is too often a thing imagined rather than possessed, and thus such reflections feel particularly near to the heart. Life, after all, is rarely free of trial; yet still one is inclined to believe that hope remains, quietly and steadfastly, in spite of all.
I was kindly provided with a complimentary copy of this book by NetGalley, for which I am most grateful, and I offer these thoughts in return.
February 25, 2026
Scandalous fun!
Emily’s debutante dreams are coming true, until she meets her fiance’s older brother’s bride to be, Rebecca. At first, Emily is angry that her own big day is being overshadowed by this new engagement and is less than happy that she is expected to introduce brash American, Rebecca to London Society. That is until Rebecca tempts Emily and has her questioning if she wants something different.
Loved this! Jane always writes these historic romances with such flare and elegance that transports you right into the moment. Emily and Rebecca were both young, and Rebecca’s nature was more adventurous. It didn’t take long, even if partly in denial, for Emily to become a bit fascinated with Rebecca’s risqué behaviour and mischievous nature. She was curious about the world, in a way that had Emily trailing along for new experiences and having her own mind opened and world changed.
Their rivalry at first was so funny because you could tell Emily was struggling to resist wanting to know more about Rebecca. Rebecca was infectious in a way that meant she had Emily drawn in from their first meeting. All of their encounters were memorable because they were so different from the norm, and often because they found themselves where they shouldn’t be, or where their potential in-laws would not approve of. In a way, it was as if Rebecca was corrupting Emily, but she was liberating her and saving her from a miserable life that wasn’t true to her heart. They ended up having an undeniable connection and an attraction that was electric, loving, and beautiful.
I had a lot of fun reading this, and hope Emily and Rebecca have future stories, because I can’t wait to join them on more adventures.
Emily’s debutante dreams are coming true, until she meets her fiance’s older brother’s bride to be, Rebecca. At first, Emily is angry that her own big day is being overshadowed by this new engagement and is less than happy that she is expected to introduce brash American, Rebecca to London Society. That is until Rebecca tempts Emily and has her questioning if she wants something different.
Loved this! Jane always writes these historic romances with such flare and elegance that transports you right into the moment. Emily and Rebecca were both young, and Rebecca’s nature was more adventurous. It didn’t take long, even if partly in denial, for Emily to become a bit fascinated with Rebecca’s risqué behaviour and mischievous nature. She was curious about the world, in a way that had Emily trailing along for new experiences and having her own mind opened and world changed.
Their rivalry at first was so funny because you could tell Emily was struggling to resist wanting to know more about Rebecca. Rebecca was infectious in a way that meant she had Emily drawn in from their first meeting. All of their encounters were memorable because they were so different from the norm, and often because they found themselves where they shouldn’t be, or where their potential in-laws would not approve of. In a way, it was as if Rebecca was corrupting Emily, but she was liberating her and saving her from a miserable life that wasn’t true to her heart. They ended up having an undeniable connection and an attraction that was electric, loving, and beautiful.
I had a lot of fun reading this, and hope Emily and Rebecca have future stories, because I can’t wait to join them on more adventures.
February 13, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Books and Jane Walsh for this ARC. I am happy to share my honest review.
I was thrilled to pick this book up because I love historical sapphic romance and the Regency period is amongst my absolute favorites. The Debutante Dilemma is a lovely and heartfelt sapphic romance with emotional depth and is wonderfully satisfying to read. I was thoroughly entertained from beginning to end. This is the first book I've read by Jane Walsh and I was impressed and will look for more from her. There is something special about a well done historical fiction story for me because it transports me into a time and place so far removed from everyday life. This story of duty and refinement in an intriguing era was just so much fun to read.
Lady Emily is fortunate enough to have snagged a very desirable fiance in the son of a Duke. Despite not feeling particularly enamored with him she understands the magnitude of this engagement and believes real feelings will grow in time. Her own engagement is upstaged by the announcement that her fiance’s brother is engaged and to an American Heiress no less. Emily's careful and curated life is thrown off balance especially when she is tasked with introducing the American into London society. Rebecca Tremblay is a confident woman dripping with American independence. She is not without faults and has experienced a bit of scandal involving another woman back in the States. She has elected to marry the wealthy and influential eldest son of a Duke in London and abscond from her troubles. She believes a fresh start and a new country might be the best way to move forward.
Emily and Rebecca are thrust together and must spend quite a bit of time together at the insistence of her fiance's grandmother. What begins as a sort of adversarial relationship blossoms into a sweet friendship and eventually into more than either woman could have ever imagined. Emily is dutiful and diligent. She is the quintessential respectable Lady of the time. Nevertheless, she is equally fascinated by the free spirited Rebecca. She honestly just really grows to enjoy her company. She becomes quite taken with the unique American and feels an attraction that Emily has never truly allowed herself to recognize. Rebecca absolutely reciprocates her feelings and can't deny her ever growing attraction to Emily. The two of them can't escape each other and the undeniable tension between them. I loved the will they or won't they aspect. The time period adds a sense of taboo and forbiddenness to their relationship and I love that. This aspect is my favorite part! They shouldn't want each other and they feel pressure and fear from society but they choose each other anyway. It is so beautiful to watch love prevail. The romance is gradual and their internal struggle is believable and makes the entire story so much better. The romance between Emily and Rebeca is real and their connection is so sweet. I loved them together and was rooting for them all along. They found their HEA in the end and I was most definitely swooning!
The writing was deliberate and quite elegant. I found Jane Walsh’ss interpretation of the time period to be most enjoyable. She does a great job of describing Rencegenhy high society and all of its beautiful limitations. The pacing is on point and the slower realization of feelings and attraction really works quite well. Walsh employs a unique voice and writes with emotion. The story embraces the time period and also the beautiful love story between Emily and Rebecca.
This was a wonderful sapphic historical romance that I really enjoyed. I found the characters to be deliciously deep and soulful. Emily and Rebecca nestled their way into my heart and will remain there for a long time. The book is emotional and sweet and offers a romance that you can root for. I absolutely recommend this book for any lovers of the Regency period who also want to indulge in a slow burn sapphic romance that will make you feel all the feels. A must read!
I was thrilled to pick this book up because I love historical sapphic romance and the Regency period is amongst my absolute favorites. The Debutante Dilemma is a lovely and heartfelt sapphic romance with emotional depth and is wonderfully satisfying to read. I was thoroughly entertained from beginning to end. This is the first book I've read by Jane Walsh and I was impressed and will look for more from her. There is something special about a well done historical fiction story for me because it transports me into a time and place so far removed from everyday life. This story of duty and refinement in an intriguing era was just so much fun to read.
Lady Emily is fortunate enough to have snagged a very desirable fiance in the son of a Duke. Despite not feeling particularly enamored with him she understands the magnitude of this engagement and believes real feelings will grow in time. Her own engagement is upstaged by the announcement that her fiance’s brother is engaged and to an American Heiress no less. Emily's careful and curated life is thrown off balance especially when she is tasked with introducing the American into London society. Rebecca Tremblay is a confident woman dripping with American independence. She is not without faults and has experienced a bit of scandal involving another woman back in the States. She has elected to marry the wealthy and influential eldest son of a Duke in London and abscond from her troubles. She believes a fresh start and a new country might be the best way to move forward.
Emily and Rebecca are thrust together and must spend quite a bit of time together at the insistence of her fiance's grandmother. What begins as a sort of adversarial relationship blossoms into a sweet friendship and eventually into more than either woman could have ever imagined. Emily is dutiful and diligent. She is the quintessential respectable Lady of the time. Nevertheless, she is equally fascinated by the free spirited Rebecca. She honestly just really grows to enjoy her company. She becomes quite taken with the unique American and feels an attraction that Emily has never truly allowed herself to recognize. Rebecca absolutely reciprocates her feelings and can't deny her ever growing attraction to Emily. The two of them can't escape each other and the undeniable tension between them. I loved the will they or won't they aspect. The time period adds a sense of taboo and forbiddenness to their relationship and I love that. This aspect is my favorite part! They shouldn't want each other and they feel pressure and fear from society but they choose each other anyway. It is so beautiful to watch love prevail. The romance is gradual and their internal struggle is believable and makes the entire story so much better. The romance between Emily and Rebeca is real and their connection is so sweet. I loved them together and was rooting for them all along. They found their HEA in the end and I was most definitely swooning!
The writing was deliberate and quite elegant. I found Jane Walsh’ss interpretation of the time period to be most enjoyable. She does a great job of describing Rencegenhy high society and all of its beautiful limitations. The pacing is on point and the slower realization of feelings and attraction really works quite well. Walsh employs a unique voice and writes with emotion. The story embraces the time period and also the beautiful love story between Emily and Rebecca.
This was a wonderful sapphic historical romance that I really enjoyed. I found the characters to be deliciously deep and soulful. Emily and Rebecca nestled their way into my heart and will remain there for a long time. The book is emotional and sweet and offers a romance that you can root for. I absolutely recommend this book for any lovers of the Regency period who also want to indulge in a slow burn sapphic romance that will make you feel all the feels. A must read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
(4.5 Stars) I really enjoy historical romances and Walsh has the ability to write f/f romances while sticking to the rules of Regency society. Her books aren’t reimagining the rules like the TV version of Bridgerton. Lady Emily Calloway is enjoying her first season in society and has caught the attention of a wealthy second son of a Duke. She isn’t expecting a love match but she likes his attention and is sure feelings will grow between them. At her engagement party the announcement is upstage by the return of the heir who has been abroad for several years. He announces his engagement to Miss Rebecca Tremblay, an American heiress. Her family hopes to benefit from his connections for trade.
The dowager Duchess (grandmother) of the brothers decides that Emily must help ease Rebecca’s way into society. It allows them time together. Emily is shocked at Rebecca’s easy way and lack of concern for chaperones and rules. Emily is also concerned that her friendship feelings may be more. I really enjoyed the story. The feuding twin brothers are not a major part of the story other than how their actions have ramifications for their fiancees. I love that all men aren’t villains, especially the girls' fathers. (Father’s are often pushing marriages for their own gain in historical romances.) And I like how things work out to a plausible ending.
A very enjoyable novel. Especially if you enjoy historical romances. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
The dowager Duchess (grandmother) of the brothers decides that Emily must help ease Rebecca’s way into society. It allows them time together. Emily is shocked at Rebecca’s easy way and lack of concern for chaperones and rules. Emily is also concerned that her friendship feelings may be more. I really enjoyed the story. The feuding twin brothers are not a major part of the story other than how their actions have ramifications for their fiancees. I love that all men aren’t villains, especially the girls' fathers. (Father’s are often pushing marriages for their own gain in historical romances.) And I like how things work out to a plausible ending.
A very enjoyable novel. Especially if you enjoy historical romances. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
February 6, 2026
This novel offers a slow-burning and emotionally rewarding historical romance. At the beginning of the book, I found myself searching for the connection between the two main characters, Emily and Rebecca. Their bond is not immediately obvious, but as the story unfolds, their relationship develops in a natural and convincing way that gradually draws the reader in.
Emily’s character growth is particularly well done. Throughout the story, she learns to reflect on herself and her choices, discovering what it truly means to feel rather than simply doing what is expected of her by society. Her journey of self-discovery adds emotional depth and makes her character increasingly relatable. Rebecca, by contrast, comes from a very different background. She is open, warm-hearted, and carries a strength shaped by her past, which creates a compelling contrast between the two women.
The development of their relationship feels believable and easy to follow. The further you read, the more emotionally invested you become in their story. The tension between ambition, societal expectations, and personal desire is handled with care, making their connection both touching and impactful.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Emily’s character growth is particularly well done. Throughout the story, she learns to reflect on herself and her choices, discovering what it truly means to feel rather than simply doing what is expected of her by society. Her journey of self-discovery adds emotional depth and makes her character increasingly relatable. Rebecca, by contrast, comes from a very different background. She is open, warm-hearted, and carries a strength shaped by her past, which creates a compelling contrast between the two women.
The development of their relationship feels believable and easy to follow. The further you read, the more emotionally invested you become in their story. The tension between ambition, societal expectations, and personal desire is handled with care, making their connection both touching and impactful.
I received a free copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The author did well with this historical romance, but it wasn't the best for me. It was an interesting take in Regency society and she kept to the rules and etc and not making it up as she went.
Lady Emily Calloway caught the attention of a wealthy second son of a Duke, but a wrench is thrown in. Her announcement of her engagement is upstage by the return of the heir, the brother of Emily's fiancée and he announces his engagement to Miss Rebecca Tremblay, an American heiress.
The Grandmother of the brothers decides that Emily must help Rebecca. Emily isn't sure what to think of Rebecca's easy way and lack of concern for chaperones and rules and Emily's feelings grow that are more than friendship. This wasn't a bad story, but didn't hit the mark for me.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Emily Calloway caught the attention of a wealthy second son of a Duke, but a wrench is thrown in. Her announcement of her engagement is upstage by the return of the heir, the brother of Emily's fiancée and he announces his engagement to Miss Rebecca Tremblay, an American heiress.
The Grandmother of the brothers decides that Emily must help Rebecca. Emily isn't sure what to think of Rebecca's easy way and lack of concern for chaperones and rules and Emily's feelings grow that are more than friendship. This wasn't a bad story, but didn't hit the mark for me.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 13, 2026
Lady Emily’s dream wedding is overshadowed by her fiancé’s brother’s scandalous engagement to American heiress Rebecca. Emily is tasked with guiding her rival through London society, only to discover a surprising attraction. As societal pressures mount, Emily and Rebecca must decide if ambition or their hearts will prevail.
I love Emily and Rebecca! In many ways, this is an opposites-attract romance. Rebecca is a free spirit, while Emily observes the proprieties. Emily’s envy of Rebecca’s position as the heir’s fiancée is an interesting twist—she’s not purely a “good girl.” I wish we’d seen a little more of the rivalry between the brothers, but otherwise this is an engaging and heartwarming romance.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
I love Emily and Rebecca! In many ways, this is an opposites-attract romance. Rebecca is a free spirit, while Emily observes the proprieties. Emily’s envy of Rebecca’s position as the heir’s fiancée is an interesting twist—she’s not purely a “good girl.” I wish we’d seen a little more of the rivalry between the brothers, but otherwise this is an engaging and heartwarming romance.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 14, 2026
The Debutante Dilemma is a beautifully written, emotionally rich story that balances historical authenticity with a tender, slow-burning love. The vivid setting, natural dialogue, and period-appropriate language make the world feel immersive, while Emily and Rebecca’s journey, shaped by societal expectations, family pressure, and quiet longing, adds real depth and heart. Their romance is sweet, swoony, and quietly devastating in the best way, making this a memorable and deeply satisfying read for anyone who loves character-driven historical romance.
Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com
Check out my complete review at TheLesbianReview.com
January 21, 2026
This was an absolutely delightful regency romance.
Here's the setup. Emily & Rebecca are set to marry a pair of brothers, one of which is the heir to the dukedom. Emily is set to educate the "uncultured american" Rebecca in the ways of high society and things progress from there.
I loved absolutely every moment of this. Emily & Rebecca both have distinct and different personalities and lived history, but their chemistry together is just delightful. The book touches on some series issues of the regency era, such as both of their engagements were basically paid for by respective fathers (yeah) and what kind of future they may have.
An amazing book.
Here's the setup. Emily & Rebecca are set to marry a pair of brothers, one of which is the heir to the dukedom. Emily is set to educate the "uncultured american" Rebecca in the ways of high society and things progress from there.
I loved absolutely every moment of this. Emily & Rebecca both have distinct and different personalities and lived history, but their chemistry together is just delightful. The book touches on some series issues of the regency era, such as both of their engagements were basically paid for by respective fathers (yeah) and what kind of future they may have.
An amazing book.
January 24, 2026
Everything you want in a historical romance. There is angst, drama and a little suspense. Overall, a very satisfying read. I particularly liked the fact that the author was respectful enough to truly 'know' the time period. It's obvious they have done so much research into the era, and the people who lived it, and it shows in the smooth plot and well defined characters.
As a historical romance fan, this ticked all the right boxes for me
As a historical romance fan, this ticked all the right boxes for me
January 5, 2026
This book will be great for those who love historical romance with the added bonus of a sapphic romance.
The main characters are easy to cheer for and you want them to get their happy ever after.
There were parts of the story that dragged so I couldn’t give it 5 stars but this book will definitely have its dedicated lovers.
I received arc from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
The main characters are easy to cheer for and you want them to get their happy ever after.
There were parts of the story that dragged so I couldn’t give it 5 stars but this book will definitely have its dedicated lovers.
I received arc from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you are looking for a regency novel that is different from traditional ones then this is one book you should definitely check out. It is a very fast moving story and the page lengh is fairly reasonable. I for one enjoy reading a historical fiction LGBTQ romance once in a while. I will say I was very impressed with the outcome and the fact that these two ladies were willing to sacrifice everything to be together.
We are introduced to Emily who has everything going well for her as she is going to be married to the second son of a wealthy lord. But a bombshell is dropped when it is announced that her fiance's brother is also engaged to a wealthy American Heiress. Enter the lovely Rebecca.
However, Rebecca has a few secrets of her own. She had to leave America due to an indiscretion with another woman. Soon after her engagement and arrival her fiance is accused of a murder plot. She ends up seeking friendship with Emily which soon turns into much more. Emily soon finds herself falling for this wealthy American Heiress. Will these two give up the comforts of secure marriage to wealthy men in order to be happy?
We are introduced to Emily who has everything going well for her as she is going to be married to the second son of a wealthy lord. But a bombshell is dropped when it is announced that her fiance's brother is also engaged to a wealthy American Heiress. Enter the lovely Rebecca.
However, Rebecca has a few secrets of her own. She had to leave America due to an indiscretion with another woman. Soon after her engagement and arrival her fiance is accused of a murder plot. She ends up seeking friendship with Emily which soon turns into much more. Emily soon finds herself falling for this wealthy American Heiress. Will these two give up the comforts of secure marriage to wealthy men in order to be happy?
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews