What do you think?
Rate this book
Burning Courtesy
He returned to London for revenge.
He never expected her to awaken a hunger he could not master.
After years of exile, Adrian Blackthorne returns to Regency society with a new title, a rebuilt fortune, and a single to destroy the powerful family that betrayed him.
Beneath polished courtesy lies a design shaped by patience and iron control, set carefully in motion to dismantle the Ashworth name from within.
At the center of that design stands Clara Ashworth, the celebrated diamond of the Season.
To society, she is flawless. To Adrian, she is something far more perilous. There is a quiet defiance in her, a restless intelligence, a spark that refuses to be contained. Drawing close to her should be strategy alone. Instead, it becomes something far more dangerous.
Something he begins to crave.
As London’s glittering ballrooms fill with whispers and watchful eyes, revenge begins to blur at the edges, giving way to desire that neither of them can deny. Loyalties begin to fracture. Control begins to slip.
And the closer Adrian comes to destroying the Ashworths, the more he risks losing himself to the one woman who sees him too clearly, and touches something in him he thought long buried.
In a world where reputation is power and ruin travels faster than truth, Adrian and Clara stand on the edge of something neither planned and neither can escape.
Because some desires are as dangerous as vengeance.
And some flames refuse to be contained.
He never expected her to awaken a hunger he could not master.
After years of exile, Adrian Blackthorne returns to Regency society with a new title, a rebuilt fortune, and a single to destroy the powerful family that betrayed him.
Beneath polished courtesy lies a design shaped by patience and iron control, set carefully in motion to dismantle the Ashworth name from within.
At the center of that design stands Clara Ashworth, the celebrated diamond of the Season.
To society, she is flawless. To Adrian, she is something far more perilous. There is a quiet defiance in her, a restless intelligence, a spark that refuses to be contained. Drawing close to her should be strategy alone. Instead, it becomes something far more dangerous.
Something he begins to crave.
As London’s glittering ballrooms fill with whispers and watchful eyes, revenge begins to blur at the edges, giving way to desire that neither of them can deny. Loyalties begin to fracture. Control begins to slip.
And the closer Adrian comes to destroying the Ashworths, the more he risks losing himself to the one woman who sees him too clearly, and touches something in him he thought long buried.
In a world where reputation is power and ruin travels faster than truth, Adrian and Clara stand on the edge of something neither planned and neither can escape.
Because some desires are as dangerous as vengeance.
And some flames refuse to be contained.
371 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 21, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 27, 2026
Review of advanced reader copy
I love historical fiction, I also love period romance, I did not love this.
Something felt very off? Honestly Charles dickens is easier to read, the prose was trying too hard to be historically accurate that it became really taxing. Every other line was a metaphor or analogy, the sentences were very short, almost clunky. I almost didn’t want to leave a review, but this is my honest opinion, so I feel I must say something.
Sorry but this just wasn’t for me, DNF’d at 40% - I gave it a really good go!
I love historical fiction, I also love period romance, I did not love this.
Something felt very off? Honestly Charles dickens is easier to read, the prose was trying too hard to be historically accurate that it became really taxing. Every other line was a metaphor or analogy, the sentences were very short, almost clunky. I almost didn’t want to leave a review, but this is my honest opinion, so I feel I must say something.
Sorry but this just wasn’t for me, DNF’d at 40% - I gave it a really good go!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy recived from Author.
Burning Courtesy delivers a richly textured Regency romance that leans heavily into atmosphere, character nuance, and slow-building tension. This particular arc stood out for me for its unhurried pacing—truly a slow burn in every sense. The romance simmers beneath layers of social propriety, internal conflict, and meticulous period detail, which Sutton renders with impressive care.
The writing is immersive, though at times almost too detailed. Chapters run long, often lingering in introspection and description, which may test the patience of readers looking for quicker progression. That being said, this same depth definitely becomes a strength in the second half of the book, where the emotional stakes sharpen and the narrative momentum finally clicks into place. It’s here that the payoff begins to feel worth the investment.
The dynamic between the FMC and MMC is particularly compelling—subtle, restrained, and full of unspoken tension. Sutton excels at portraying the push-and-pull of attraction within the strict confines of Regency society. By the latter half, their interactions carry more weight, and the emotional undercurrents are far more engaging.
While the beginning may feel slow, the arc ultimately rewards persistence. The improvement in pacing and emotional intensity makes the latter portion much more satisfying, leaving me especially intrigued about what ultimately happens to both the FMC and MMC. Their journey feels far from over, and I’m curious to see how Sutton resolves the threads she’s so carefully woven.
Overall, a 4-star read—best suited for readers who enjoy detailed historical settings, long-form storytelling, and a romance that takes its time to unfold.
Burning Courtesy delivers a richly textured Regency romance that leans heavily into atmosphere, character nuance, and slow-building tension. This particular arc stood out for me for its unhurried pacing—truly a slow burn in every sense. The romance simmers beneath layers of social propriety, internal conflict, and meticulous period detail, which Sutton renders with impressive care.
The writing is immersive, though at times almost too detailed. Chapters run long, often lingering in introspection and description, which may test the patience of readers looking for quicker progression. That being said, this same depth definitely becomes a strength in the second half of the book, where the emotional stakes sharpen and the narrative momentum finally clicks into place. It’s here that the payoff begins to feel worth the investment.
The dynamic between the FMC and MMC is particularly compelling—subtle, restrained, and full of unspoken tension. Sutton excels at portraying the push-and-pull of attraction within the strict confines of Regency society. By the latter half, their interactions carry more weight, and the emotional undercurrents are far more engaging.
While the beginning may feel slow, the arc ultimately rewards persistence. The improvement in pacing and emotional intensity makes the latter portion much more satisfying, leaving me especially intrigued about what ultimately happens to both the FMC and MMC. Their journey feels far from over, and I’m curious to see how Sutton resolves the threads she’s so carefully woven.
Overall, a 4-star read—best suited for readers who enjoy detailed historical settings, long-form storytelling, and a romance that takes its time to unfold.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love how right off the bat, you're completely captured in the time set and culture of this book. As you read the first few chapters, it is as if you were watching a ball with it's dancers masterfully woven together.
Although not written in a slow pace, it's not so fast that it whips you through the story, but just slow enough that it carries your through the dance.
For all historical fiction readers, this is a book for you. Beautifully eloquent, and simply masterful in capturing the manners and style of a timepiece.
There is so much witt, and soooo many good one liners. It'd be half a book if I were to list out every one that jumped out at me.
Downtown abbey your vibe? 🎩🪭Then, Burning Courtesy is your tribe
I enjoyed how this was first point of view! It's been a long while since I've read a book from the first persons perspective; it was, indeed, well written.
the plot was *chefs kiss*. I loved the mystery, and everything that there was to this story line!
my ✨️personal✨️ preference is more of a 3rd person pov.. and that would have sent this book into lovee😍 territory for me. but I did enjoy this book.
for first person pov, it was very well written and not unrealistic. so I am giving it a full five stars, even if it isn't written in my preferred pov!
the skill in writing was fantastic!
Although not written in a slow pace, it's not so fast that it whips you through the story, but just slow enough that it carries your through the dance.
For all historical fiction readers, this is a book for you. Beautifully eloquent, and simply masterful in capturing the manners and style of a timepiece.
There is so much witt, and soooo many good one liners. It'd be half a book if I were to list out every one that jumped out at me.
Downtown abbey your vibe? 🎩🪭Then, Burning Courtesy is your tribe
I enjoyed how this was first point of view! It's been a long while since I've read a book from the first persons perspective; it was, indeed, well written.
the plot was *chefs kiss*. I loved the mystery, and everything that there was to this story line!
my ✨️personal✨️ preference is more of a 3rd person pov.. and that would have sent this book into lovee😍 territory for me. but I did enjoy this book.
for first person pov, it was very well written and not unrealistic. so I am giving it a full five stars, even if it isn't written in my preferred pov!
the skill in writing was fantastic!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This felt like stepping into a candlelit confession.
Burning Courtesy is one of the most beautifully written historical romances I’ve read - every line feels intentional, layered, and steeped in metaphor. It’s the kind of book where the atmosphere does just as much work as the plot.
Adrian Blackthorne is not your typical romantic lead. He is controlled, calculated, and shaped by fifteen years of suffering. His revenge is not loud - it’s patient, quiet, and precise. And watching that control slowly unravel is everything.
Clara Ashworth was such a standout for me. She’s observant, intelligent, and carries a quiet defiance that makes her impossible to underestimate. The dynamic between her and Adrian is a true slow burn - built on tension, perception, and the dangerous pull of being understood.
The writing style won’t be for everyone - it leans heavily into metaphor and mood - but if that’s your thing, this book is an absolute feast.
Also: Henry and Elias deserve their flowers. Loyal, steady, and grounding in a story filled with shadows.
This is a story about revenge, yes - but more than that, it’s about what happens when control begins to slip… and something far more dangerous takes its place.
Burning Courtesy is one of the most beautifully written historical romances I’ve read - every line feels intentional, layered, and steeped in metaphor. It’s the kind of book where the atmosphere does just as much work as the plot.
Adrian Blackthorne is not your typical romantic lead. He is controlled, calculated, and shaped by fifteen years of suffering. His revenge is not loud - it’s patient, quiet, and precise. And watching that control slowly unravel is everything.
Clara Ashworth was such a standout for me. She’s observant, intelligent, and carries a quiet defiance that makes her impossible to underestimate. The dynamic between her and Adrian is a true slow burn - built on tension, perception, and the dangerous pull of being understood.
The writing style won’t be for everyone - it leans heavily into metaphor and mood - but if that’s your thing, this book is an absolute feast.
Also: Henry and Elias deserve their flowers. Loyal, steady, and grounding in a story filled with shadows.
This is a story about revenge, yes - but more than that, it’s about what happens when control begins to slip… and something far more dangerous takes its place.
May 14, 2026
I am a sucker for historical fiction, I also love a good period romance. Unfortunately, I did not love this.
This book was hard to read, the prose was trying really to be historically accurate and I found it more difficult to read than 'A Clockwork Orange' and I needed a Russian dictionary for that!
The level of depth the author put into every sentence felt excessive (and repetitive), it felt like every other line was a metaphor or analogy. I understand that it helps build a picture, but there's only so many times the wind or the candlelight can be described without me thinking, 'I don't give a toss about the sodding candlelight!'.
What I will say is that I liked the general premise/plot of the book and for many people I think this will be a firm favourite, I just didn't connect with the writing style and that made it hard for me to continue.
I DNF'd this book at 23%.
This book was hard to read, the prose was trying really to be historically accurate and I found it more difficult to read than 'A Clockwork Orange' and I needed a Russian dictionary for that!
The level of depth the author put into every sentence felt excessive (and repetitive), it felt like every other line was a metaphor or analogy. I understand that it helps build a picture, but there's only so many times the wind or the candlelight can be described without me thinking, 'I don't give a toss about the sodding candlelight!'.
What I will say is that I liked the general premise/plot of the book and for many people I think this will be a firm favourite, I just didn't connect with the writing style and that made it hard for me to continue.
I DNF'd this book at 23%.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Anyone up for a slow burn Regency era romance? Then this is it! Sylvia Sutton's writing style is fantastically vivid and captures all the finer details of the Regency era. If you're a lover of Bridgerton, this is slower paced and wildly descriptive.
The story centers around Adrian Blackthorne's return to London after a fifteen-year absence. Why was he gone so long? Well, there were some broken bargains at the hands of those who were wealthier, and now he wants revenge—with his eyes set on the Ashworths. There's just one outlier in his plans: the diamond of the season, Clara Ashworth.
Oh, and I absolutely loved the confectionary scene—it’s so perfect and wholesome, but you’ll have to read it to find out why!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was so lucky to have received an ARC of this novel and it was gloriously elegant and regal. The writing has an archaic quality and is vast in detail. The chapters are quite long, so it kept me reading to be able to break at a good point.
The cover is stunning and the character development beautiful and strong.
It gives vibes of similar era and styles of romance like Bridgerton or Downton Abbey, so if you like those please consider getting this one.
I also loved the historical setting.
I can't wait to read more from this author.
My instagram channel is @readsleepgame
My tiktok channel is @pinksweetst
The cover is stunning and the character development beautiful and strong.
It gives vibes of similar era and styles of romance like Bridgerton or Downton Abbey, so if you like those please consider getting this one.
I also loved the historical setting.
I can't wait to read more from this author.
My instagram channel is @readsleepgame
My tiktok channel is @pinksweetst
Review of advance copy received from Author
Sylvia Sutton's Burning Courtesy is a regency romance set around revenge and obsession.
This was a quietly intense novel that explored the tension between social expectations and inner turmoil.
My favorite part of the story was watching Clara's bravery blossom. She was definitely a stand out heroine.
Usually I am a very fast reader, but I really wanted to take my time with this story. Sutton has a beautiful way of writing that made you want to savor her descriptions of regency life.
Thank you to Sylvia Sutton for an ARC copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
This was a quietly intense novel that explored the tension between social expectations and inner turmoil.
My favorite part of the story was watching Clara's bravery blossom. She was definitely a stand out heroine.
Usually I am a very fast reader, but I really wanted to take my time with this story. Sutton has a beautiful way of writing that made you want to savor her descriptions of regency life.
Thank you to Sylvia Sutton for an ARC copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advanced copy received from author
Burning Courtesy is a quietly intense read that balances emotional depth with a slow-building sense of unease. Sylvia Sutton crafts characters who feel both fragile and guarded, pulling the reader into a world where politeness masks deeper tensions and unspoken truths. The prose is understated but effective, letting small moments carry significant weight. While the pacing may feel deliberate, it ultimately serves the story’s simmering conflict. A thoughtful, character-driven novel that lingers after the final page.
Burning Courtesy is a quietly intense read that balances emotional depth with a slow-building sense of unease. Sylvia Sutton crafts characters who feel both fragile and guarded, pulling the reader into a world where politeness masks deeper tensions and unspoken truths. The prose is understated but effective, letting small moments carry significant weight. While the pacing may feel deliberate, it ultimately serves the story’s simmering conflict. A thoughtful, character-driven novel that lingers after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy of this book to Arc and this is my genuine opinion of it.
The book is well written and develops at a good pace.
I’ve always been a fan of count of monte cristo and this definitely has a feel of it. Both MMC and FMC are strong and committed to each other. The only reason I didn’t give it 5* was because I cringed a little when realised the past between the MMC and Catherine. Thankfully there was no love lost so I got past it and enjoyed it!
The book is well written and develops at a good pace.
I’ve always been a fan of count of monte cristo and this definitely has a feel of it. Both MMC and FMC are strong and committed to each other. The only reason I didn’t give it 5* was because I cringed a little when realised the past between the MMC and Catherine. Thankfully there was no love lost so I got past it and enjoyed it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the Author for my Advance Readers Copy!
If your into a descriptive world building, slow burn period romance then this is the book for you!
Adrian Blackthorne is back for revenge, with his eye on the prized diamond. That prize diamond being Clara Ashworth.
The beginning of the book helps build a beautiful picture of the world. That sets the stage for whats to come.
If you love historical fiction like Bridgerton, then this is for you.
If your into a descriptive world building, slow burn period romance then this is the book for you!
Adrian Blackthorne is back for revenge, with his eye on the prized diamond. That prize diamond being Clara Ashworth.
The beginning of the book helps build a beautiful picture of the world. That sets the stage for whats to come.
If you love historical fiction like Bridgerton, then this is for you.
April 22, 2026
ARC review
London, early 1800s. Adrian returns from being imprisoned for 15 years and he seeks revenge on the Ashworth family. He is controlled and calculated. Clara Ashworth, the diamond of the season, catches his eye and plans to use her to destroy the family from the inside out.
The story is beautifully written. I recommend this book to those who enjoy Regency-era books. The story builds slowly. I enjoyed the witty banter throughout the book.
London, early 1800s. Adrian returns from being imprisoned for 15 years and he seeks revenge on the Ashworth family. He is controlled and calculated. Clara Ashworth, the diamond of the season, catches his eye and plans to use her to destroy the family from the inside out.
The story is beautifully written. I recommend this book to those who enjoy Regency-era books. The story builds slowly. I enjoyed the witty banter throughout the book.
Read
April 7, 2026As an advanced reader chosen for Burning Courtesy, I was impressed. The author has a beautiful way with language and writing that compliments the time and era of the story. It was a very descriptive slow burn that revealed that an unsatiated desire can linger and that the longing and obsession to devour can last. If you love a descriptive slow burn then this is for you.
April 22, 2026
I was lucky enough to receive a copy of Burning Courtesy as an Arc Reader.
From the beginning, the story is so beautifully and elegantly written. The descriptive narrative remains throughout, which completely captivates the scene. I enjoyed reading along as the romance developes and loved the ending!
If you enjoy slow-burn romances then I would recommend! 💕
From the beginning, the story is so beautifully and elegantly written. The descriptive narrative remains throughout, which completely captivates the scene. I enjoyed reading along as the romance developes and loved the ending!
If you enjoy slow-burn romances then I would recommend! 💕
April 22, 2026
Review of Advanced Copy Received from Author
Critically: 2.25/Personally: 1
The narration wasn’t for me. At first I thought it was interesting and mysterious, but I got tired of if by chapter 5. Overall, I got bored of the story too, but it did have some interesting parts. The dialogue was sometimes hard to understand, too.
Critically: 2.25/Personally: 1
The narration wasn’t for me. At first I thought it was interesting and mysterious, but I got tired of if by chapter 5. Overall, I got bored of the story too, but it did have some interesting parts. The dialogue was sometimes hard to understand, too.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Honestly, I loved this book, it gave me Bridgerton vibes but with a BANG! The writing style flowed brilliantly and I was invested from the very beginning! I honestly hope this becomes a series as I would buy all! MUST READ!
April 21, 2026
Absolutely amazing! I loved it from the beginning to the end.
Did Not Finish
June 28, 2026It began so very emotional that I could not bear the transference of feeling from one dead fiancé to a new husband.
May 6, 2026
I really enjoyed this one! It’s a fast-paced, tension-filled historical romance with a strong revenge plot that pulls you in right away. The chemistry between the main characters builds so naturally, starting with sharp, subtle moments that turn into something much deeper. I loved how the story balances high society drama with emotional intensity—it keeps things interesting without feeling overdone. The push and pull between duty, revenge, and growing feelings adds so much depth. Definitely a captivating read if you like romance with a bit of edge and intrigue.
July 8, 2026
While this book may look all frilly and pink on the outside, do not judge it by its cover, it will hook you right in! If you are a fan of Bridgerton, but want more scandal and obsessive MMCs (especially if you like to torture yourself with a slow burn), Burning Courtesy is for sure the book for you. Thank you so much to Sylvia for gifting me this eARC!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews