What do you think?
Rate this book
The Accidental Debutante
The BRAND NEW page-turning Regency romance from Sunday Times bestseller Jane Dunn ✨ Must-read for fans of Jane Austen and Gill Hornby! A daring young lady, a dashing English Earl and a bluff American millionaire in search of a bride. Who will win the hand of the mysterious Eliza Gray? 💍
At Prebbles Flying Circus. the daring Eliza Gray captivates audiences with her breathtaking feats on horseback. Yet beyond the applause, she harbours a longing to find the family she lost as a child and discover who she truly is.
Fate, however, takes an unexpected turn when Eliza is unceremoniously knocked down by a curricle driven recklessly by Raven, Earl Purfoy. Dazed but intrigued, she cannot help but notice Purfoy’s commanding presence.
For his part, the dashing lord, is mortified at his carelessness and resolves to assist the spirited yet intriguing young woman. He deposits her in the care of his dearest friends, Corinna and Alick Wolfe, who encourage Miss Gray in her search for her family and sponsor her entry into London society. The glittering balls and scurrilous gossip of the ton are a far cry from the circus ring and Eliza finds herself the subject of intense speculation and unwelcome advances.
As a most accidental debutante, Eliza has to navigate the complexities of high society and her new friendships. Her quest for family and belonging becomes perilously entwined with Zadoc Flynn, an American heir of a New York plutocrat, who intends to take home with him the finest racing horse money can buy...and an English bride.
Can Eliza uncover the truth of her past and the family she longs for? And will it be Mr Flynn or Lord Purfoy, or indeed her new female friends, who help her find her place in the world?
In a tale of courage, passion, and self-discovery, this lost orphan must decide where she truly belongs.
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth with this sparkling historical romance – the chemistry will rival Lizzy and Darcy!
Praise for Jane
'Authentic, thrilling, touching, heart-wrenchingly romantic.' Bestselling author Emma Orchard
'Brilliant, sparkling and very clever.' Elizabeth Buchan
‘Outstanding, perceptive and delightfully readable.’ Sunday Times Books of the Year
‘Jane Dunn has written a splendid piece of popular history with the ready-pen of a highly skilled writer, endowed with remarkable insight.’ Roy Strong, Daily Mail
‘Jane Dunn is one of our best biographers.’ Miranda Seymour, Sunday Times
Readers love Jane
‘The story was brilliant, captivating, exciting.... and at times I held my breath ~ there was romance, revelations and drama within. This was a super read which I WILL recommend to all of my book loving friends.’
‘I could not put this down and finished it in the small hours! All the characters are so well-drawn and lovable and the feel for the Regency so evocative I was immediately drawn into a wonderful story of family and friendship, loss and longing – and love across the social classes.’
‘Another really wonderful book from Jane Dunn. I couldn’t put it down.
At Prebbles Flying Circus. the daring Eliza Gray captivates audiences with her breathtaking feats on horseback. Yet beyond the applause, she harbours a longing to find the family she lost as a child and discover who she truly is.
Fate, however, takes an unexpected turn when Eliza is unceremoniously knocked down by a curricle driven recklessly by Raven, Earl Purfoy. Dazed but intrigued, she cannot help but notice Purfoy’s commanding presence.
For his part, the dashing lord, is mortified at his carelessness and resolves to assist the spirited yet intriguing young woman. He deposits her in the care of his dearest friends, Corinna and Alick Wolfe, who encourage Miss Gray in her search for her family and sponsor her entry into London society. The glittering balls and scurrilous gossip of the ton are a far cry from the circus ring and Eliza finds herself the subject of intense speculation and unwelcome advances.
As a most accidental debutante, Eliza has to navigate the complexities of high society and her new friendships. Her quest for family and belonging becomes perilously entwined with Zadoc Flynn, an American heir of a New York plutocrat, who intends to take home with him the finest racing horse money can buy...and an English bride.
Can Eliza uncover the truth of her past and the family she longs for? And will it be Mr Flynn or Lord Purfoy, or indeed her new female friends, who help her find her place in the world?
In a tale of courage, passion, and self-discovery, this lost orphan must decide where she truly belongs.
Celebrate the 250th anniversary of Jane Austen's birth with this sparkling historical romance – the chemistry will rival Lizzy and Darcy!
Praise for Jane
'Authentic, thrilling, touching, heart-wrenchingly romantic.' Bestselling author Emma Orchard
'Brilliant, sparkling and very clever.' Elizabeth Buchan
‘Outstanding, perceptive and delightfully readable.’ Sunday Times Books of the Year
‘Jane Dunn has written a splendid piece of popular history with the ready-pen of a highly skilled writer, endowed with remarkable insight.’ Roy Strong, Daily Mail
‘Jane Dunn is one of our best biographers.’ Miranda Seymour, Sunday Times
Readers love Jane
‘The story was brilliant, captivating, exciting.... and at times I held my breath ~ there was romance, revelations and drama within. This was a super read which I WILL recommend to all of my book loving friends.’
‘I could not put this down and finished it in the small hours! All the characters are so well-drawn and lovable and the feel for the Regency so evocative I was immediately drawn into a wonderful story of family and friendship, loss and longing – and love across the social classes.’
‘Another really wonderful book from Jane Dunn. I couldn’t put it down.
MP3 CD
Published June 14, 2025
317 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
Jane Dunn
16 books145 followersJane Dunn is a leading biographer, the author of Moon in Eclipse: A Life of Mary Shelley, A Very Close Conspiracy: Vanessa Bell and Virginia Wolf, and Antonia White: A Life. Elizabeth and Mary: Cousins, Rivals, Queens was published in the spring of 2003 and spent seven weeks in the top ten of the Sunday Times bestseller list. A fellow of the Royal Society of Literature, Dunn lives near Bath with her husband, the linguist and writer Nicholas Ostler. Her most recent book is Read My Heart.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
dnf
July 11, 2025DNF @ 20%
Unfortunately I'm finding it really hard to stay focused / interested in this book. It feels like it's moving really slowly. I'm also not a fan of the multi POV. I don't mind third person but when it skips around between all the characters it's just hard for me to follow.
I also think that this would have been better if I had read some of the previous books. I believe the author when she says it's a standalone but for me personally I think I need to read the other ones and I'm not interested enough to do that.
Unfortunately I'm finding it really hard to stay focused / interested in this book. It feels like it's moving really slowly. I'm also not a fan of the multi POV. I don't mind third person but when it skips around between all the characters it's just hard for me to follow.
I also think that this would have been better if I had read some of the previous books. I believe the author when she says it's a standalone but for me personally I think I need to read the other ones and I'm not interested enough to do that.
June 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advanced reader copy I received of this book.
Eliza Gray has spent the last 12 years of her life working as a trick rider for the circus in Regency England. She was found at the age of seven, wandering around Bath and was taken in by the circus owner. However, this was not a loving childhood or an easy life. Eliza is now an adult and wants to find her family so she sneaks out of the circus one night and heads into London to find work. On her way there, she's almost killed by Raven, Earl Purfoy as he drives his carriage through the streets at night. Raven can't leave a wounded woman on the sidewalk, nor can he take her to his home, so he asks his friends and neighbors, Alick and Corinna Wolfe, to help the young woman recover. Eliza is terrified to be sent back to the circus so she tells them she has amnesia following the accident but she can't keep that up for long if she wants to find the truth of who she is and where she came from.
This was my first book by Jane Dunn and it was kind of a bizarre place to drop into her novels because this book heavily overlaps with her earlier book, An Unsuitable Heiress. While I wasn't confused at any point in the book, I did feel like I was missing some context for the relationships between Purfoy and his friends that would have been helpful in understanding why he behaves the way he does.
The Accidental Debutante reads like an old school historical romance from the late 80s to early 90s. I was not surprised when I got to the About the Author to find that she is a historian and author of nonfiction by trade and has written biographies of people like Daphne du Maurier. This novel has all the hallmarks of the older historicals with a modern sensibility. The POV is third person omniscient, which is incredibly rare in historical romance today. Jane Dunn head hops constantly, sometimes shifting mid-paragraph. The vibes of the characters and dialogue also felt very late 80s. It's hard to describe if you haven't read those books but if you are a seasoned reader of that era of historical romance, you'll recognize it as soon as the book starts.
I liked a lot of things about this book. The heroine is a horse girl. She has spend her life in the circus working with horses and is more comfortable with them than people in many cases. A lot of this book takes place while she is out riding or around the topic of horse racing and breeding. I love when a heroine has a niche interest in a book, especially if the author weaves it throughout the novel so I was charmed by Eliza's passion for horses.
The hero is an alpha asshole, which worked for me! Again, he feels of a time in a way I don't often see in new historical romances. I don't know how his asshole exterior and Never Had A Feeling nonsense would play to a new reader in the genre but as someone who grew up on Garwood and Harlequin Historical heroes, I was locked in. And his name is Raven! Raven! If you're going to put an alpha hero on page, he needs a name like that to support his bullshit behavior.
Now, you will need to just go along with a couple of Romance Law things to enjoy this book. Jane Dunn is a biographer so I know she knows the legal points were incorrect but it served the book to have the law against the heroine. Just know going in that what you know about inheritance law in Regency England will not apply.
I enjoyed The Accidental Debutante. It was very different from any other new historical romance I have read this year (and that's saying something– I read a lot of new titles) and I am intrigued to read this author's other books.
Eliza Gray has spent the last 12 years of her life working as a trick rider for the circus in Regency England. She was found at the age of seven, wandering around Bath and was taken in by the circus owner. However, this was not a loving childhood or an easy life. Eliza is now an adult and wants to find her family so she sneaks out of the circus one night and heads into London to find work. On her way there, she's almost killed by Raven, Earl Purfoy as he drives his carriage through the streets at night. Raven can't leave a wounded woman on the sidewalk, nor can he take her to his home, so he asks his friends and neighbors, Alick and Corinna Wolfe, to help the young woman recover. Eliza is terrified to be sent back to the circus so she tells them she has amnesia following the accident but she can't keep that up for long if she wants to find the truth of who she is and where she came from.
This was my first book by Jane Dunn and it was kind of a bizarre place to drop into her novels because this book heavily overlaps with her earlier book, An Unsuitable Heiress. While I wasn't confused at any point in the book, I did feel like I was missing some context for the relationships between Purfoy and his friends that would have been helpful in understanding why he behaves the way he does.
The Accidental Debutante reads like an old school historical romance from the late 80s to early 90s. I was not surprised when I got to the About the Author to find that she is a historian and author of nonfiction by trade and has written biographies of people like Daphne du Maurier. This novel has all the hallmarks of the older historicals with a modern sensibility. The POV is third person omniscient, which is incredibly rare in historical romance today. Jane Dunn head hops constantly, sometimes shifting mid-paragraph. The vibes of the characters and dialogue also felt very late 80s. It's hard to describe if you haven't read those books but if you are a seasoned reader of that era of historical romance, you'll recognize it as soon as the book starts.
I liked a lot of things about this book. The heroine is a horse girl. She has spend her life in the circus working with horses and is more comfortable with them than people in many cases. A lot of this book takes place while she is out riding or around the topic of horse racing and breeding. I love when a heroine has a niche interest in a book, especially if the author weaves it throughout the novel so I was charmed by Eliza's passion for horses.
The hero is an alpha asshole, which worked for me! Again, he feels of a time in a way I don't often see in new historical romances. I don't know how his asshole exterior and Never Had A Feeling nonsense would play to a new reader in the genre but as someone who grew up on Garwood and Harlequin Historical heroes, I was locked in. And his name is Raven! Raven! If you're going to put an alpha hero on page, he needs a name like that to support his bullshit behavior.
Now, you will need to just go along with a couple of Romance Law things to enjoy this book. Jane Dunn is a biographer so I know she knows the legal points were incorrect but it served the book to have the law against the heroine. Just know going in that what you know about inheritance law in Regency England will not apply.
I enjoyed The Accidental Debutante. It was very different from any other new historical romance I have read this year (and that's saying something– I read a lot of new titles) and I am intrigued to read this author's other books.
June 1, 2025
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have enjoyed all of Jane Dunn's Regency romance books, and this one was no exception. It does revisit characters from An Unsuitable Heiress, which means certain aspects of that novel's ending will be spoiled for you, but if that doesn't bother you, this can easily be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed seeing familiar characters back again after their happy ending, their everyday lives interweaving with and supporting Eliza and Raven's story. Said story felt like it wrapped up a bit quickly for me, but any idiosyncracies were absolved for me when I read that Dunn's intent was to make this book celebrate love in all its forms (including grief, the other side of the coin), which it definitely does and which we definitely need right now. Overall, I highly recommend this latest release.
I have enjoyed all of Jane Dunn's Regency romance books, and this one was no exception. It does revisit characters from An Unsuitable Heiress, which means certain aspects of that novel's ending will be spoiled for you, but if that doesn't bother you, this can easily be read as a standalone. I really enjoyed seeing familiar characters back again after their happy ending, their everyday lives interweaving with and supporting Eliza and Raven's story. Said story felt like it wrapped up a bit quickly for me, but any idiosyncracies were absolved for me when I read that Dunn's intent was to make this book celebrate love in all its forms (including grief, the other side of the coin), which it definitely does and which we definitely need right now. Overall, I highly recommend this latest release.
June 1, 2025
Eliza is a circus performer in Regency-era London, a scandalous career as far as society is concerned but the only one open to her. She has no memory of her childhood before being rescued from the streets as a child, and she grew up in the circus. As an adult she chooses to leave the circus to finally find her parents. But on her way to do so, Lord Raven "Rav" Purfoy, inebriated after a night of gaming, runs over Eliza with his carriage. Oops! Taken under the wing of Lord Purfoy's friends, she soon meets Zadoc Flynn, the rich American who's also her host's cousin. Eliza longs to find her lost family, and she must navigate London society while also examining her own feelings about love and her future. I do enjoy historical romances but this was not really the book for me. The writing style was a bit formal and overly descriptive for my tastes, and I had some trouble fully engaging with the story and characters. It was an interesting premise but the story was kind of a slow starter, and there were parts that seemed far-fetched even when trying to suspend disbelief. Rav was kind of a jerk to Eliza, and Flynn was a bit over-blown in his American-ness, although thankfully they both mellowed over the course of the book. I was engaged with the mystery of Eliza's family, which is the main reason why I kept reading. The book is described as a standalone that's part of a larger series. I haven't read any of the other books but I didn't have any trouble following the story. That said, because there are characters in this story that appeared in previous books it's possible I might have enjoyed this one more if I'd read the whole series. If you're in the mood for a multi-character, family mystery, opposites-attract, quasi-love triangle, low spice historical romance, this is the book for you. Publishes June 14, 2025. This review is based on a complimentary eARC of the book, all opinions are my own.
May 22, 2025
The Accidental Debutante is a regency romance by author Jane Dunn, and although it wasn't terrible, it wasn't my cup of tea.
I found the story of Eliza Gray, a circus performer who is looking for her family to be more than a little bit unbelievable considering the time period in which the story was set. I am not a huge stickler for details being perfect in historical romance, but I just didn't believe that society would be so accepting of a circus performer, and she didn't try to hide it from most of the people she met.
Also, I don't want to mention specific spoilers for other readers, but one of the reveals in the novel was just so unbelievable. That she would attach herself to this one person and then to have that person revealed to be who they were was a bit much for me.
As I said I don't want to spoil things for other readers, so I'll just say this was not the book for me, although I think that some people will enjoy it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I found the story of Eliza Gray, a circus performer who is looking for her family to be more than a little bit unbelievable considering the time period in which the story was set. I am not a huge stickler for details being perfect in historical romance, but I just didn't believe that society would be so accepting of a circus performer, and she didn't try to hide it from most of the people she met.
Also, I don't want to mention specific spoilers for other readers, but one of the reveals in the novel was just so unbelievable. That she would attach herself to this one person and then to have that person revealed to be who they were was a bit much for me.
As I said I don't want to spoil things for other readers, so I'll just say this was not the book for me, although I think that some people will enjoy it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 7, 2025
I liked a lot of things about this book. I love it when a heroine has a niche interest in a book, especially if the author weaves it throughout the novel, so I was charmed by Eliza's passion for horses. Also, I loved Raven from the start! And don't even get me started on that group of friends! They were all just amazing, and I had so much fun seeing them! The only thing was that the book was quite predictable for me, maybe cause I've read too many historical romances at this point lol, but still had fun with the plotline!
June 29, 2025
I received this from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This was a pretty good read. I did enjoy the romance that grew between characters. It was just a slow read.
May 5, 2025
Eliza Gray, a daring performer at Prebbles Flying Circus, mesmerises audiences with her horseback feats. Yet beneath the applause, she yearns to discover her lost family and true identity. Fate intervenes when she is accidentally knocked down by Raven, Earl Purfoy, whose remorse leads him to aid her. Under the guidance of his close friends, Corinna and Alick Wolfe, Eliza enters the dazzling world of London society. Navigating its treacherous gossip and social intrigue, she finds herself entangled with Zadoc Flynn, an American heir seeking both a prized racehorse and an English bride. As Eliza searches for her past and her rightful place, she must decide who—Flynn, Purfoy, or her newfound friends—will truly help her uncover the life she desires.
This was a cute story and the premise was interesting. The first half was well paced and I liked Eliza and Rav as the main leads. There are quite a few plot points – Eliza’s search for her family, the horse race and Eliza's deception, finding a long lost sister, the conflict with the villain, Raven’s reluctance to open his heart. Although the reader is carried along with Eliza and her search I did feel that it was a little disjointed. The matter of her search for her family was resolved quickly but unsatisfactorily. The connection between Eliza and Rav is instant and I never felt that Flynn would come between them but I felt the romance lacked a little something. I definitely preferred the first half. I think there were so many plot points that each one needed more focus rather than skimming across it. Just as an example - the villain accosted Eliza towards the end, she was saved by her friend and then it was never mentioned again.
Overall, I did enjoy the story though. It had likeable leads and it was well written. I received an advanced review copy via Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Three and a half stars rounded up.
This was a cute story and the premise was interesting. The first half was well paced and I liked Eliza and Rav as the main leads. There are quite a few plot points – Eliza’s search for her family, the horse race and Eliza's deception, finding a long lost sister, the conflict with the villain, Raven’s reluctance to open his heart. Although the reader is carried along with Eliza and her search I did feel that it was a little disjointed. The matter of her search for her family was resolved quickly but unsatisfactorily. The connection between Eliza and Rav is instant and I never felt that Flynn would come between them but I felt the romance lacked a little something. I definitely preferred the first half. I think there were so many plot points that each one needed more focus rather than skimming across it. Just as an example - the villain accosted Eliza towards the end, she was saved by her friend and then it was never mentioned again.
Overall, I did enjoy the story though. It had likeable leads and it was well written. I received an advanced review copy via Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Three and a half stars rounded up.
June 11, 2025
It builds up it’s reminds bridgeston
A daring young lady, a dashing English Earl and a bluff American millionaire in search of a bride. Who will win the hand of the mysterious Eliza Gray? 💍
At Prebbles Flying Circus. the daring Eliza Gray captivates audiences with her breathtaking feats on horseback. Yet beyond the applause, she harbours a longing to find the family she lost as a child and discover who she truly is.
Fate, however, takes an unexpected turn when Eliza is unceremoniously knocked down by a curricle driven recklessly by Raven, Earl Purfoy. Dazed but intrigued, she cannot help but notice Purfoy’s commanding presence.
For his part, the dashing lord, is mortified at his carelessness and resolves to assist the spirited yet intriguing young woman. He deposits her in the care of his dearest friends, Corinna and Alick Wolfe, who encourage Miss Gray in her search for her family and sponsor her entry into London society. The glittering balls and scurrilous gossip of the ton are a far cry from the circus ring and Eliza finds herself the subject of intense speculation and unwelcome advances.
As a most accidental debutante, Eliza has to navigate the complexities of high society and her new friendships. Her quest for family and belonging becomes perilously entwined with Zadoc Flynn, an American heir of a New York plutocrat, who intends to take home with him the finest racing horse money can buy...and an English bride.
Can Eliza uncover the truth of her past and the family she longs for? And will it be Mr Flynn or Lord Purfoy, or indeed her new female friends, who help her find her place in the world?
In a tale of courage, passion, and self-discovery, this lost orphan must decide where she truly belongs.
A daring young lady, a dashing English Earl and a bluff American millionaire in search of a bride. Who will win the hand of the mysterious Eliza Gray? 💍
At Prebbles Flying Circus. the daring Eliza Gray captivates audiences with her breathtaking feats on horseback. Yet beyond the applause, she harbours a longing to find the family she lost as a child and discover who she truly is.
Fate, however, takes an unexpected turn when Eliza is unceremoniously knocked down by a curricle driven recklessly by Raven, Earl Purfoy. Dazed but intrigued, she cannot help but notice Purfoy’s commanding presence.
For his part, the dashing lord, is mortified at his carelessness and resolves to assist the spirited yet intriguing young woman. He deposits her in the care of his dearest friends, Corinna and Alick Wolfe, who encourage Miss Gray in her search for her family and sponsor her entry into London society. The glittering balls and scurrilous gossip of the ton are a far cry from the circus ring and Eliza finds herself the subject of intense speculation and unwelcome advances.
As a most accidental debutante, Eliza has to navigate the complexities of high society and her new friendships. Her quest for family and belonging becomes perilously entwined with Zadoc Flynn, an American heir of a New York plutocrat, who intends to take home with him the finest racing horse money can buy...and an English bride.
Can Eliza uncover the truth of her past and the family she longs for? And will it be Mr Flynn or Lord Purfoy, or indeed her new female friends, who help her find her place in the world?
In a tale of courage, passion, and self-discovery, this lost orphan must decide where she truly belongs.
June 16, 2025
Eliza Gray was seven when she got lost and was taken in by a circus. Since then, she's been trained and worked on doing elaborate tricks on horseback. She has long desired to find her family and home and leaves the circus one night after her performance with plans to find work and embark on her search in free time. Unfortunately, she's run over by a vehicle travelling too fast and driven by an inebriated Raven Purfoy. Next thing Eliza knows, she's set up in the home of the Wolfes, close friends and neighbors to Rav. It's not long before Eliza is caught up in the social scene, attending balls and meeting many people in society. It's a whole new world and eventually she does find out about her family.
I really enjoyed this and liked Eliza's background as a circus performer. I do ponder the circumstances keeping her from being reunited with family at the time, but her experience does drive the story quite a bit. The romance between Eliza and Rav is fairly slow burning but there's plenty of story aside from that to keep them both occupied. One thing I like about the series is there are character who don't fit the norm totally. While I am aware this isn't likely to have gotten a person very far during the time in reality, I like the idea of these more unique characters. I've read the book previous in this series so I already knew the main characters. I think someone could read this without having read previously, but it definitely provides a bit more background to have that earlier experience.
Overall, this was a really good read, and I rate it 3.5 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood books for giving me a free advance reader copy. My opinions have been provided voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this and liked Eliza's background as a circus performer. I do ponder the circumstances keeping her from being reunited with family at the time, but her experience does drive the story quite a bit. The romance between Eliza and Rav is fairly slow burning but there's plenty of story aside from that to keep them both occupied. One thing I like about the series is there are character who don't fit the norm totally. While I am aware this isn't likely to have gotten a person very far during the time in reality, I like the idea of these more unique characters. I've read the book previous in this series so I already knew the main characters. I think someone could read this without having read previously, but it definitely provides a bit more background to have that earlier experience.
Overall, this was a really good read, and I rate it 3.5 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood books for giving me a free advance reader copy. My opinions have been provided voluntarily.
August 30, 2025
Jane Dunn’s The Accidental Debutante is a lively and heartfelt Regency romance that blends intrigue, romance, and self-discovery. Eliza Gray, once a daring circus equestrienne, flees the only life she has ever known in search of her lost family. Fate intervenes when she is injured by Raven Purfoy, the brooding Earl burdened by his own painful past. Taken in by friends of the aristocracy, Eliza suddenly finds herself thrust into London society, navigating glittering ballrooms, whispered secrets, and the attentions of two very different suitors—Purfoy, whose guarded heart she longs to unlock, and Zadoc Flynn, a pragmatic American with ambitions of his own.
Dunn layers her story with themes of identity, belonging, and resilience, while weaving in rich historical detail and a spirited dose of horse racing lore. Eliza shines as a heroine—fearless, resourceful, and determined to chart her own course. The chemistry between her and Purfoy is both tender and slow-burning, making their eventual romance all the more satisfying. With its blend of emotional depth, clever twists, and immersive Regency atmosphere, The Accidental Debutante will charm fans of Georgette Heyer and Evie Dunmore alike.
A tale of reinvention, love, and the courage to face both the shadows of the past and the promise of a brighter future, this is a delightful addition to Dunn’s growing Regency collection.
Dunn layers her story with themes of identity, belonging, and resilience, while weaving in rich historical detail and a spirited dose of horse racing lore. Eliza shines as a heroine—fearless, resourceful, and determined to chart her own course. The chemistry between her and Purfoy is both tender and slow-burning, making their eventual romance all the more satisfying. With its blend of emotional depth, clever twists, and immersive Regency atmosphere, The Accidental Debutante will charm fans of Georgette Heyer and Evie Dunmore alike.
A tale of reinvention, love, and the courage to face both the shadows of the past and the promise of a brighter future, this is a delightful addition to Dunn’s growing Regency collection.
June 14, 2025
Eliza is running away from the circus, where she’s lived since she was seven years old, desperately wanting to find her family and to find her home. Buffeted by the stormy wind she falls into the path of a speeding curricle driven by the drunken Lord Purfoy and is injured, losing her memory as a result. Lord Purfoy is horrified, as it brings back memories from his past, and he quickly takes Eliza to his friends’ house and asks them to care for her until her memory returns. Eliza is welcomed by the Wolfe family and when they learn why she fled the circus they promise to do all they can to help her find her family. In the meantime, they introduce her into society.
I really enjoyed this book; it has all the ingredients for an absorbing regency romance. A handsome, brooding hero; a feisty heroine; a dastardly villain; a rich, respectable but bluff suitor and a surprising new female friend. The characters interacted well with each other and the friendship displayed between the main characters was heart-warming. It was good to catch up with Alick, Rav, Ferdy and Corinna following their exploits in An Unsuitable Heiress, but this book can be read as a standalone. Maybe we’ll find out what happens to Ferdy in the future?
I really enjoyed this book; it has all the ingredients for an absorbing regency romance. A handsome, brooding hero; a feisty heroine; a dastardly villain; a rich, respectable but bluff suitor and a surprising new female friend. The characters interacted well with each other and the friendship displayed between the main characters was heart-warming. It was good to catch up with Alick, Rav, Ferdy and Corinna following their exploits in An Unsuitable Heiress, but this book can be read as a standalone. Maybe we’ll find out what happens to Ferdy in the future?
June 15, 2025
Eliza is an intriguing central character with a mystery to solve as to her upbringing. She can mimic whichever strata of society she finds herself in but her earliest memories point to her having a respectable and fairly affluent family. As self defence, she finds herself having to mislead the people who are trying to help her. She feels guilty about this.
Raven is the dashing lord who has made sure that she is safe and under the care of his closest friends. Up in London for the Season, he is a confirmed bachelor but you feel that there is a sensitive side beneath the surface. A trauma in his family has left him determined to avoid any future heartbreak. Eliza finds herself with a choice to make. She has the chance for a respectable but loveless marriage to a rich American but hankers after a true love affair. There is plenty of period detail which shows you a believable world with some interesting characters. It has all the ingredients of a Regency romance and depicts plausible friendships and a touch of humour too.
In short: family secrets and a glittering romance
Thanks to the publisher
Raven is the dashing lord who has made sure that she is safe and under the care of his closest friends. Up in London for the Season, he is a confirmed bachelor but you feel that there is a sensitive side beneath the surface. A trauma in his family has left him determined to avoid any future heartbreak. Eliza finds herself with a choice to make. She has the chance for a respectable but loveless marriage to a rich American but hankers after a true love affair. There is plenty of period detail which shows you a believable world with some interesting characters. It has all the ingredients of a Regency romance and depicts plausible friendships and a touch of humour too.
In short: family secrets and a glittering romance
Thanks to the publisher
July 11, 2025
Oh, the rapturous joy of being transported to the Regency era to join Lord Raven Purfoy and his friends Alick Wolfe, Ferdi Shilton and Corinna Wolfe once more! I loved meeting them in An Unsuitable Heiress and was delighted to pick up their lives in Jane Dunn's latest, superb novel. When Eliza Gray decides to leave Prebbles Flying Circus, where she has lived since the age of 7, she hopes to find the family she lost. Her almost disastrous encounter with Lord Raven Purfoy results in her being introduced to his friends, who take her under their wing, helping her in her search for her family. The attraction between Eliza and Raven is both immediate and intense. Their shared love of horses brings about a mutual respect which threatens to become much, much more. But will Raven loosen the reins binding his heart and allow Eliza in? Or will she accept the offer of a new life in America? I loved the descriptions of the horses, the thrill of the race and was swept up in the emotional journey of Eliza and Raven's story. A brilliant book, with characters I am sorry to leave, but who will remain in my heart forever.
January 17, 2026
It was ok
While this is a clean, closed-door romance, I found it rather formal and dry in tone. Which was rather disappointing as I was excited by the premise of the book; hence the reason I bought it.
Eliza gets knocked over and trampled by the horses and all she has is a slight cut on the head from hitting her head when she falls. No other injuries! It's a miracle.
Numerous times I had to reread sections to make sense of it. Apart from Raven, I don't think anyone else in the group was titled. Yet they moved freely in society and among the ton. Was it purely because of wealth? Later when they are all at Ferdi's home, his home and servants are spoken of as ducal. But no mention was made of him being anything except a dandy. This group didn't seem to ever do any work either. Rav was quite rude to Eliza initially, which did not endear him to this reader.
How the half sister managed to get invited to balls etc, is beyond me. Society was often downright cruel to illegitimate children. Overall I did not enjoy it as much as I had anticipated, but your experience may be different.
While this is a clean, closed-door romance, I found it rather formal and dry in tone. Which was rather disappointing as I was excited by the premise of the book; hence the reason I bought it.
Eliza gets knocked over and trampled by the horses and all she has is a slight cut on the head from hitting her head when she falls. No other injuries! It's a miracle.
Numerous times I had to reread sections to make sense of it. Apart from Raven, I don't think anyone else in the group was titled. Yet they moved freely in society and among the ton. Was it purely because of wealth? Later when they are all at Ferdi's home, his home and servants are spoken of as ducal. But no mention was made of him being anything except a dandy. This group didn't seem to ever do any work either. Rav was quite rude to Eliza initially, which did not endear him to this reader.
How the half sister managed to get invited to balls etc, is beyond me. Society was often downright cruel to illegitimate children. Overall I did not enjoy it as much as I had anticipated, but your experience may be different.
June 14, 2025
Eliza Gray works at the Prebbles Flying Circus. She is a goddess on horseback, and her performance is the best attraction. She has been at the circus since Mrs.Prebbles found her wandering in Bath at a young age. Eliza doesn't know who her family is or if Eliza is even her name. She decides to finally leave the circus and her best friend, Rose, behind and begin her search for her parents and any family she may find.
Things don't go as Eliza planned, but I believe things went even better for her. She was lucky to stumble upon Earl Raven Purfoy, and he then took her to the Wolfe's, who showed her nothing but kindness and a feeling of being home and among family. Eliza will find heartaches in her search for her family but will gain very important people in her life.
Loved this story, Eliza is such a beautiful character, and her love for horses shows her true kindness and empathy. Corinna Wolfe is the nicest of all the characters and one of my favorites in this historical romance.
Thank you, Netgalley and Boldwood Books, for this ARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
Things don't go as Eliza planned, but I believe things went even better for her. She was lucky to stumble upon Earl Raven Purfoy, and he then took her to the Wolfe's, who showed her nothing but kindness and a feeling of being home and among family. Eliza will find heartaches in her search for her family but will gain very important people in her life.
Loved this story, Eliza is such a beautiful character, and her love for horses shows her true kindness and empathy. Corinna Wolfe is the nicest of all the characters and one of my favorites in this historical romance.
Thank you, Netgalley and Boldwood Books, for this ARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
June 5, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“The Accidental Debutante” is part of a series by Jane Dunn, however this book can be read as a stand-alone, which I appreciated. I’ve the feeling that if I’d read the earlier books in this series, the amount of names at the beginning would not have felt as overwhelming as it did. This book takes place during the Regency Era in England. We follow Eliza, a circus girl, who captures the heart of Lord Purfoy. At times this book flowed a bit slowly and a bit too formally for my taste. Additionally, some things came across a bit oddly - such as Lord Purfoy hinting that he knew that Eliza didn’t lose her memory and while being attracted to her, keeps her at arm’s length due to some tragedy in his past (which one is it sir?). This book missed the mark for me, but I found the idea interesting. I think if one likes Regency era books (Bridgerton!) and a slow romance, this book would be up your alley.
“The Accidental Debutante” is part of a series by Jane Dunn, however this book can be read as a stand-alone, which I appreciated. I’ve the feeling that if I’d read the earlier books in this series, the amount of names at the beginning would not have felt as overwhelming as it did. This book takes place during the Regency Era in England. We follow Eliza, a circus girl, who captures the heart of Lord Purfoy. At times this book flowed a bit slowly and a bit too formally for my taste. Additionally, some things came across a bit oddly - such as Lord Purfoy hinting that he knew that Eliza didn’t lose her memory and while being attracted to her, keeps her at arm’s length due to some tragedy in his past (which one is it sir?). This book missed the mark for me, but I found the idea interesting. I think if one likes Regency era books (Bridgerton!) and a slow romance, this book would be up your alley.
May 4, 2025
5 stars
Interesting premise, our heroine has been in the circus since she was 7. They taught her to do tricks on horses. She rides her favourite horse, Percy bare back. She decided to run away as she wants to find her family. Eliza has vague memories of a mother and father in Bath and losing her nurse. She leaves disguised as a old woman, turns the corner and is almost run over by Raven, Earl Purfoy who despite his tiger, Taz advice is driving whilst drunk. In a panic he takes the woman to his friends place. We have met his friends in other books. This nicely links to An Unsuitable Heiress.
Its lovely to see how Cory, Alick and Ferdy are getting on. This is obviously the book when Raven meets his match. Entertaining and I'd recommend this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
Interesting premise, our heroine has been in the circus since she was 7. They taught her to do tricks on horses. She rides her favourite horse, Percy bare back. She decided to run away as she wants to find her family. Eliza has vague memories of a mother and father in Bath and losing her nurse. She leaves disguised as a old woman, turns the corner and is almost run over by Raven, Earl Purfoy who despite his tiger, Taz advice is driving whilst drunk. In a panic he takes the woman to his friends place. We have met his friends in other books. This nicely links to An Unsuitable Heiress.
Its lovely to see how Cory, Alick and Ferdy are getting on. This is obviously the book when Raven meets his match. Entertaining and I'd recommend this author.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
June 14, 2025
Eliza Gray is a circus performer with stunning acrobatic skills and a deep affinity for horses. The circus took her in as a small child, and she can barely recall her former life. Still, she wants a family and has made up her mind to leave and find her true roots. A near tragedy puts her in the path of an Earl and his friends, and it's a life-changing experience. This romantic story has a pleasing uniqueness and a believable Regency setting. There is a mix of new characters and some from previous books, as well as an engaging romance between Eliza and Rav. Eliza is courageous and willing to defy convention despite her upbringing; she has a naivety that makes her emotional journey turbulent. The romance is lyrical and gentle but engaging to read. It's a lovely story with complex characters and a vibrant historical setting.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 1, 2025
I absolutely loved this from the very first page! The way the characters interacted and how their individual personalities were portrayed and shaped the story was in my opinion brilliantly written. When Eliza Gray falls in front of Lord Purfoy’s carriage she has no idea how much her life is going to change. Raven, Lord Purfoy, immediately takes her to his good friends Alick and Corinna Wolfe to tend to her needs. The Wolfe’s assist Eliza in being entered into society and she finds herself the centre of attention but she also receives some unwelcome advances. Raven has always sworn to never marry and Eliza is determined to find out who she really is but as their relationship develops will these things still stand? I devoured this wonderful story and found that it had a bit of everything from drama, to romance to heartbreak. I highly recommend reading this
July 7, 2025
Eliza was found at the age of seven wandering the streets crying and was taken in by Mrs. Prebble of The Prebble's Flying Circus. As an adult, Eliza is a circus performer but decides to sneak away to learn of her family. Rav is drunk driving his carriage and runs her down. He takes her to a friend's house to recover. She can speak as if she's from the streets or as upper class, fitting in to each situation. The friend couple introduces her to society and she must make a decision between the two men interested in her. The book is closed door and written in a quaint writing style (for lack of a better word) you might find wearying. I received an ARC of this title from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
June 10, 2025
This latest novel by Jane Dunn is a perfect read for fans of Jane Austen or Julia Quinn - Pride and Prejudice meets Bridgerton. Filled with lively and entertaining characters, it tracks the quest of circus runaway Eliza Gray to find her birth family.
Although humourous and mostly light hearted, the book does reflect the plight of young regency era ladies who are without society family or fortune, reliant on the generosity of others to survive and move forward in life.
This book works well as a standalone and is very enjoyable.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.
#TheAccidentalDebutante
#NetGalley
Although humourous and mostly light hearted, the book does reflect the plight of young regency era ladies who are without society family or fortune, reliant on the generosity of others to survive and move forward in life.
This book works well as a standalone and is very enjoyable.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the review copy.
#TheAccidentalDebutante
#NetGalley
June 22, 2025
Alone and lost at just seven years old
Eliza has been raised in a circus and is daring and bold.
However she dreams of finding her family
And so her adventures begin you see.
Being knocked down wasn’t what she had planned
Nor was recuperating in a home that is oh so grand.
However surprised she is at this twist of fate
Secrets need sharing before it is too late!
A fun historical romance I enjoyed all the way through
With friendship and more as Eliza decides what to do
There are twist a-plenty before all is resolved
Requiring Eliza to keep being bold!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this my honest review.
Eliza has been raised in a circus and is daring and bold.
However she dreams of finding her family
And so her adventures begin you see.
Being knocked down wasn’t what she had planned
Nor was recuperating in a home that is oh so grand.
However surprised she is at this twist of fate
Secrets need sharing before it is too late!
A fun historical romance I enjoyed all the way through
With friendship and more as Eliza decides what to do
There are twist a-plenty before all is resolved
Requiring Eliza to keep being bold!
For my copy of this book I say thank you
As I share with you this my honest review.
July 31, 2025
Preposterous Plot and Ludicrous Female Protagonist
I gave the first book I read by this author a rave review but what a let down this book is. Imagine Mr. Darcy wedding Elizabeth’s loony sister Lydia. To have the ultimate Corinthian fall for this boorish female is an insult to the Regency period The author is also insisting on having her female heroines dress like a man, which would be the kiss of death for any woman hoping to marry well. I will try one more of her books but don’t have much hope it will be better. This one is so trite and boring don’t waste your time. .
I gave the first book I read by this author a rave review but what a let down this book is. Imagine Mr. Darcy wedding Elizabeth’s loony sister Lydia. To have the ultimate Corinthian fall for this boorish female is an insult to the Regency period The author is also insisting on having her female heroines dress like a man, which would be the kiss of death for any woman hoping to marry well. I will try one more of her books but don’t have much hope it will be better. This one is so trite and boring don’t waste your time. .
January 31, 2026
This is the fourth regency romance by Jane Dunn I have read and definitely the weakest in the series, in my opinion. I could not really warm up to any character. Eliza's search for her family kept me engaged but the whole concept of a circus performer being welcomed to high society so effortlessly seemed too improbable for the period drama. Rav was a weird character, Mr Flynn was far more likeable. Eliza's instant and decisive dismissal of a reasonable (business-like) marriage in her circumstances was absolutely illogical and "unRegency."
June 13, 2025
An enjoyable story! There was so much depth of feeling in this story. Eliza's character is so hopeful, and she's willing to take take steps to make her dreams come true. Raven seemed stuck. He refuses to change and would rather be miserable. The entire cast of characters was fun which made for an enjoyable story.
June 15, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
You can definitely enjoy this one without reading the other books in the series, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I would have read those. This was a unique and interesting plot and I enjoyed the characters. It has a slow start, but once it picked up, I was intrigued.
You can definitely enjoy this one without reading the other books in the series, but I think I would have enjoyed it more if I would have read those. This was a unique and interesting plot and I enjoyed the characters. It has a slow start, but once it picked up, I was intrigued.
July 16, 2025
Eliza is a performer in a circus and is a trick horse rider. She leaves to find her home and family that she knows she had, as at seven she was found alone in Bath and the circus owners who found her raised from there. What she ultimately finds out about her family and how she finds her hea with Rev is told in this sweet read.
January 23, 2026
Unique
Wonderfully unique, the new HF from Dunn. The period details are exquisite. But the writing, that is perfection. It's just so good. You can see every detail in your mind, and it's even better than a BBC drama. Which actually I don't even watch any more. The book is always better.
Wonderfully unique, the new HF from Dunn. The period details are exquisite. But the writing, that is perfection. It's just so good. You can see every detail in your mind, and it's even better than a BBC drama. Which actually I don't even watch any more. The book is always better.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews