What do you think?
Rate this book
The Gentleman's Leading Lady
A Regency romance where a runaway actress and an ambitious architect pretend to be lovers—until pretending stops being enough.
She's fighting for the stage.
He's fighting for his name.
Neither expected to fight for each other.
Cerys Evans ran away from her family to make her way on the stage, determined to earn a name that was all her own. But when the theater burns down, her options are slink home a failure, or help her troupe build new premises and finally prove her place among them.
The only obstacle? She'll have to work with Dante Manelli, Cheltenham's rising architect—arrogant, infuriating, and most decidedly not a gentleman.
Dante has fought for every inch of his success, and he's not about to let the taunts of a saucy actress distract him. But she's offering a project that could cement his career. And when Cerys creates a ruse to free him from an old nemesis, she soon has all of Cheltenham believing they're not just co-conspirators—but lovers.
The more time they spend together, the more tempted Dante is to make their play real. But Cerys is meddling with a dangerous rival, one who will do anything to end her hopes. And when her past comes back to find her, Dante must prove himself the gentleman worthy of her hand—and deserving of her heart.
For two souls struggling to establish their place in the world, there may be only one place they each together.
Witty, romantic, and rich with tension—The Gentleman's Leading Lady is a Regency romance for readers who love fake relationships that become devastatingly real.
Perfect for Readers Who Witty romance rich with tensionAmbitious heroines and self-made heroesFake courtships that turn devastatingly realTheater settings and Regency charm
She's fighting for the stage.
He's fighting for his name.
Neither expected to fight for each other.
Cerys Evans ran away from her family to make her way on the stage, determined to earn a name that was all her own. But when the theater burns down, her options are slink home a failure, or help her troupe build new premises and finally prove her place among them.
The only obstacle? She'll have to work with Dante Manelli, Cheltenham's rising architect—arrogant, infuriating, and most decidedly not a gentleman.
Dante has fought for every inch of his success, and he's not about to let the taunts of a saucy actress distract him. But she's offering a project that could cement his career. And when Cerys creates a ruse to free him from an old nemesis, she soon has all of Cheltenham believing they're not just co-conspirators—but lovers.
The more time they spend together, the more tempted Dante is to make their play real. But Cerys is meddling with a dangerous rival, one who will do anything to end her hopes. And when her past comes back to find her, Dante must prove himself the gentleman worthy of her hand—and deserving of her heart.
For two souls struggling to establish their place in the world, there may be only one place they each together.
Witty, romantic, and rich with tension—The Gentleman's Leading Lady is a Regency romance for readers who love fake relationships that become devastatingly real.
Perfect for Readers Who Witty romance rich with tensionAmbitious heroines and self-made heroesFake courtships that turn devastatingly realTheater settings and Regency charm
- GenresEnemies To Lovers
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Misty Urban
42 books217 followersMisty Urban is a fiction writer, medieval scholar, freelance editor, and college teacher. She holds a Ph.D. in Old and Middle English and an MFA in fiction from Cornell University and lives in a small town along a big river in eastern Iowa.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
Read
July 24, 2026Look out, world, it's Cerys Evans, all grown up! You first met Cerys and her mother, Dovey, in Viscount Overboard when she was a sassy, headstrong girl helping Gwen hold a roof over the head of their little community in St. Sefin's. You saw her again, still brassy, bossing around Anne in The Knight Falls First. But now it's 1811 and Cerys has left Newport, Wales, following dreams of her own that involve being admired for her work on the stage. They don't involve having to deal with a brooding, arrogant, half-Italian architect. But Cerys has never let anything stop her from getting what she wants...and she's not about to stop now.
I hope you enjoy seeing our Cerys (pronounced CARE-iss) meet her match in Dante Manelli! You'll find callouts to Beatrice & Benedict of Much Ado About Nothing, fake courtships, gorgeous libraries, a very unusual Hamlet, and a few bits of architectural detail thrown in for texture. Around the kidnappings, banter, and sword-fighting, of course. Steam level: ardent kisses only.
I hope you enjoy seeing our Cerys (pronounced CARE-iss) meet her match in Dante Manelli! You'll find callouts to Beatrice & Benedict of Much Ado About Nothing, fake courtships, gorgeous libraries, a very unusual Hamlet, and a few bits of architectural detail thrown in for texture. Around the kidnappings, banter, and sword-fighting, of course. Steam level: ardent kisses only.
July 30, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this new installment of the series, which takes a leap forward in time to the Regency era and tells the story of Cerys and Dante. Fans of the series are already familiar with Cerys as a child from earlier books in the series (“Viscount Overboard” and “The Knight Falls First”) and the protagonists from those books, along with their friends, make a guest appearance in this story.
It‘s a beautifully written enemies to allies to lovers, forced proximity, fake relationship, working class romance filled with vivid imagery, interesting historical and geographical tidbits, emotions, enemies tension, a tribute to Hamlet, heartwarming and funny moments, a touch of suspense, fade out intimacy, and very likable protagonists and supporting characters.
Cerys is a true whirlwind and a ray of sunshine, but deep down she’s torn between two worlds, just like Dante. On the one hand, she’s confident, stubborn, ambitious, and adventurous; on the other, she’s driven by the desire to make something of herself and feels indebted to others.
Dante strives to be recognized as a gentleman and a talented architect, which is why he comes across as cool, reserved, and overly ambitious; yet deep down, he feels insecure. The enemies tension, and attraction between the two were palpable from the very beginning. I really liked how their relationship developed and how they supported each other.
Two years ago, Cerys Van Der Welle Evans left her home and family in Newport and became an actress with the traveling troupe Dorsey’s Players. Her greatest wish is to be recognized for who she is and to make her own mark on the world before she has to return home to her family. When the theater where they are performing in Cheltenham burns down, the entire troupe is taken in by Lord Andover at his country estate. Much to her chagrin, architect Dante Manelli is also a guest of Lord Andover, as he is currently renovating the house for him. Cerys and Dante have hated each ever since they first met.
Dante tries to establish himself as a successful architect and gain recognition as a gentleman. For years, he was subjected to criticism, injustice, and prejudice: from his father, who considered him too incompetent to follow in his footsteps as an artist; because of his father’s Italian heritage and his Mediterranean appearance; the fact that his mother had married below her station; other architects who took credit for his work; and his former love who jilted him because of his low social status and broke his heart in the process.
Now Dante is on the verge of fulfilling his dreams, but the young actress Cerys dares to criticize and challenge him at every opportunity. And he has to live with this flirtatious, spoiled, and self-centered young woman and put up with her.
But then there’s also Dante’s former lover, Batsheba—now Lady Baeccon—who left him for a title and arrives in Cheltenham with her husband, intent on winning Dante back as her lover. To both their surprise, Cerys steps in and protects him from Batsheba’s advances. Cerys will pretend to be his love interest, and in return, Dante is to design and build the Dorsey Players’ dream theater. For him, it’s the long-awaited opportunity to establish his reputation in town; for Cerys, it’s the legacy she wants to leave the troupe when she has to return home. Soon they grow closer, but Dante’s scheming ex isn’t ready to give up and wants to destroy Cerys…
All in all, this historical romance is full of heart, tension, fun, and a touch of intrigue, with a whole cast of complex and quirky characters you‘ll fall in love with!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
It‘s a beautifully written enemies to allies to lovers, forced proximity, fake relationship, working class romance filled with vivid imagery, interesting historical and geographical tidbits, emotions, enemies tension, a tribute to Hamlet, heartwarming and funny moments, a touch of suspense, fade out intimacy, and very likable protagonists and supporting characters.
Cerys is a true whirlwind and a ray of sunshine, but deep down she’s torn between two worlds, just like Dante. On the one hand, she’s confident, stubborn, ambitious, and adventurous; on the other, she’s driven by the desire to make something of herself and feels indebted to others.
Dante strives to be recognized as a gentleman and a talented architect, which is why he comes across as cool, reserved, and overly ambitious; yet deep down, he feels insecure. The enemies tension, and attraction between the two were palpable from the very beginning. I really liked how their relationship developed and how they supported each other.
Two years ago, Cerys Van Der Welle Evans left her home and family in Newport and became an actress with the traveling troupe Dorsey’s Players. Her greatest wish is to be recognized for who she is and to make her own mark on the world before she has to return home to her family. When the theater where they are performing in Cheltenham burns down, the entire troupe is taken in by Lord Andover at his country estate. Much to her chagrin, architect Dante Manelli is also a guest of Lord Andover, as he is currently renovating the house for him. Cerys and Dante have hated each ever since they first met.
Dante tries to establish himself as a successful architect and gain recognition as a gentleman. For years, he was subjected to criticism, injustice, and prejudice: from his father, who considered him too incompetent to follow in his footsteps as an artist; because of his father’s Italian heritage and his Mediterranean appearance; the fact that his mother had married below her station; other architects who took credit for his work; and his former love who jilted him because of his low social status and broke his heart in the process.
Now Dante is on the verge of fulfilling his dreams, but the young actress Cerys dares to criticize and challenge him at every opportunity. And he has to live with this flirtatious, spoiled, and self-centered young woman and put up with her.
But then there’s also Dante’s former lover, Batsheba—now Lady Baeccon—who left him for a title and arrives in Cheltenham with her husband, intent on winning Dante back as her lover. To both their surprise, Cerys steps in and protects him from Batsheba’s advances. Cerys will pretend to be his love interest, and in return, Dante is to design and build the Dorsey Players’ dream theater. For him, it’s the long-awaited opportunity to establish his reputation in town; for Cerys, it’s the legacy she wants to leave the troupe when she has to return home. Soon they grow closer, but Dante’s scheming ex isn’t ready to give up and wants to destroy Cerys…
All in all, this historical romance is full of heart, tension, fun, and a touch of intrigue, with a whole cast of complex and quirky characters you‘ll fall in love with!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
July 7, 2026
Thanks to Booksprout for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is part of the Ladies Least Likely series, and while there are references to relationships and occurences from previous books, this can be enjoyed as a stand alone story.
I quite enjoyed this story as it is about characters who are not normally featured in historical romances, with the main characters, and many of the secondary characters dealing with not quite fitting into their local society and forging a place for themselves. This is a historical romance with themes of social status, diversity, fitting in, as well as some forced proximity and a bit of enemies to lovers.
Cerys is a vibrant talented young woman who leaves the home and family she knows to persue something different than she feels is expected of her future. She expresses her talents on stage, finding a home for now with a troupe in Cheltenham. But when their theatre burns down, they seek to rebuild, and build something grander and more permanent for the future. They seeks sponsers amongst the wealthy and elite of the region, with Cerys playing on her charm and talent to help.
Dante Manelli is a talented architect who has not been able to make a name for himself, as others have used his talents to boost themselves, while not giving him his due, partly because of his Italian background, even though he and his sibling are English borne and raised.
He and Cerys have a hostile relationship from the beginning, partly due to assumptions each make of the other. But they are forced together when Cerys and her troupe are given rooms at the home Dante is living and working in, after the fire destroys their lodgings with the theatre. Cerys and Dante find themselves becoming reluctant allies when someone from Dante's past returns to ruin his equilibrium, and tries to manipulate him, and Cerys decides that she will play the object of his affection to buffer him, while Dante will design and build their theatre.
An interesting story as both Cerys and Dante navigate their lives, and work to gain notice and status in a world of prejudice against them. There is also conflict and tension as both Dante and Cerys started out disliking and making assumptions about each other that fed their distaste of each other, but as they chose to work together, learned that there is much to like beneath their assumptions, and their respect and liking for each other grows. This aspect of the story started out a bit slow and other than some superficial assumptions, I did not truly understand why Cerys and Dante had such a dislike of each other, and once the story moved beyond that, it became more interesting. It started to focus more on their growing appreciation of each others' talents and their relationship opens up as they spend more time with each other and see beyond their superficial dislikes.
There is added tension with a manipulative woman from Dante's past, who broke his heart, but has no qualms of returning and trying to seduce him again, with no thought to stomping those in her way, to get what she wants, including Cerys, and her own husband.
4 stars out of 5
This is part of the Ladies Least Likely series, and while there are references to relationships and occurences from previous books, this can be enjoyed as a stand alone story.
I quite enjoyed this story as it is about characters who are not normally featured in historical romances, with the main characters, and many of the secondary characters dealing with not quite fitting into their local society and forging a place for themselves. This is a historical romance with themes of social status, diversity, fitting in, as well as some forced proximity and a bit of enemies to lovers.
Cerys is a vibrant talented young woman who leaves the home and family she knows to persue something different than she feels is expected of her future. She expresses her talents on stage, finding a home for now with a troupe in Cheltenham. But when their theatre burns down, they seek to rebuild, and build something grander and more permanent for the future. They seeks sponsers amongst the wealthy and elite of the region, with Cerys playing on her charm and talent to help.
Dante Manelli is a talented architect who has not been able to make a name for himself, as others have used his talents to boost themselves, while not giving him his due, partly because of his Italian background, even though he and his sibling are English borne and raised.
He and Cerys have a hostile relationship from the beginning, partly due to assumptions each make of the other. But they are forced together when Cerys and her troupe are given rooms at the home Dante is living and working in, after the fire destroys their lodgings with the theatre. Cerys and Dante find themselves becoming reluctant allies when someone from Dante's past returns to ruin his equilibrium, and tries to manipulate him, and Cerys decides that she will play the object of his affection to buffer him, while Dante will design and build their theatre.
An interesting story as both Cerys and Dante navigate their lives, and work to gain notice and status in a world of prejudice against them. There is also conflict and tension as both Dante and Cerys started out disliking and making assumptions about each other that fed their distaste of each other, but as they chose to work together, learned that there is much to like beneath their assumptions, and their respect and liking for each other grows. This aspect of the story started out a bit slow and other than some superficial assumptions, I did not truly understand why Cerys and Dante had such a dislike of each other, and once the story moved beyond that, it became more interesting. It started to focus more on their growing appreciation of each others' talents and their relationship opens up as they spend more time with each other and see beyond their superficial dislikes.
There is added tension with a manipulative woman from Dante's past, who broke his heart, but has no qualms of returning and trying to seduce him again, with no thought to stomping those in her way, to get what she wants, including Cerys, and her own husband.
4 stars out of 5
July 2, 2026
If you have read some of the other books, you have already met Cerys. This is her story now and she has grown up. She is an actress, working with the Dorsey’s Players, as their leading lady. She has kept her past mostly secret, not wanting them to know about her friends in high places and who her stepfather is. She wants to make a name for herself on stage. All is going great till the theater burns down. Now they need to find sponsors to help build a new one. Unfortunately, the best architect in the area is one she has already had a run in with. Dante Manell is a talented and ambitious architect trying to make a name for himself without his famous father’s name following him. He is accepted by those who need his designs to show off their properties but is not part of the ton or society. He can’t help seeing how beautiful Cerys is and how she handles all the guests no matter who they are from servants to the high and mighty too. Cerys is a master at reading people's actions and seeing behind the masks they wear. When an ex-lover of Dante shows up thinking of using him again, Cerys sets herself up in a fake courtship to save him. Neither could know how evil and under handed the ex was. There is a lot going on in this story, and it sometimes seems to have too much history of both main characters given. We learn a lot of the different kinds of architecture which was very interesting and how hard each role is for the actress to copy or make her own, a very different Hamlet was given. Both Cerys and Dante try hard not to show how either is feeling and the longings they have. All the members of the theater group, Dot, Tryphenie, Rhonda, Fred and Mame along with the owner Jed Dorsey are wonderful additions to the story. Lots of twist and turns with a truly evil underhanded woman bound to have her way not matter what. It was a good read with lots of banter, witty exchanges and the pains of learning what is important or who is the most important person. I was sorry there was not an epilogue of their lives later on. I had some unanswered questions that one would have solved. I received an ARC from the author and with to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it. I feel it is best to read the books in order, but each can be read and fully enjoyed as stand atones.
June 30, 2026
Twenty year old Cerys Van Der Welle Evans was a member of the traveling acting troupe known as the Dorsey Players. When the theater they rented burned down, they decided to look into building their own permanent theater in Cheltenham, an area where people came to attend spas and ‘take the water’. Since Cerys was uncommonly beautiful, she was asked to accompany Jed Dorsey as he tried to enlist investors. Along the way, she met Dante Manelli, an up and coming architect, who managed to get under her skin….and the feeling was mutual. Lord Andover invited the whole troupe was to stay at Suffolk House and Cerys was not thrilled to find out that Dante was staying there too. Enter Lady Bathsheba, wife of Baron Baeccon, who had a history with Dante. After witnessing Dante’s reaction to his ex, Cerys couldn’t help goading Bathsheba into thinking that she and Dante had feelings for each other. And so the stage is set. A fake romance turns real and a jealous ex becomes unhinged. Meanwhile, investors are wooed, performances take place, and we get to know a whole cast of characters. We get hints of each player’s backstory, a ploy that successfully keeps the reader glued to the page. The insecurities that plague both Cerys and Dante often take center stage, challenging their journey to their happy ending. I enjoyed the education in architecture almost as much as I enjoyed the chaos when Cerys’ family showed up. This is a well written, entertaining tale filled with strong emotion, unusual characters, steamy undercurrents and a few surprises.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 30, 2026
The Gentlemen’s Leading Lady, the newest installment in Misty Urban’s captivating Ladies Least Likely series, delivers another irresistible, page-turning adventure.
Cerys Evans has her heart set on stardom. Leaving home to chase her dream of becoming a renowned actress, she’s determined to make her mark on the stage—until fate intervenes when the theater goes up in flames. Enter Dante Manelli, a talented and ambitious architect with his own reputation to build. When this unlikely duo teams up, sparks of every kind begin to fly.
From a runaway actress and an arrogant architect to a deliciously entertaining fake courtship, this story offers a whirlwind of delights: sword fights, a daring kidnapping, and a cascade of heartfelt emotions. The witty banter kept me grinning, and watching Cerys and Dante stumble from pretense into genuine love was pure joy.
The secondary characters enrich the tale, providing humor and depth without ever stealing the spotlight. Misty Urban’s writing is charming, evocative, and brimming with life, making it easy to fall head over heels for both the characters and their journey.
If you love romance laced with adventure, humor, and heart, The Gentlemen’s Leading Lady is a must-read. I closed the book with a smile and an eager hope for more stories in this delightful series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cerys Evans has her heart set on stardom. Leaving home to chase her dream of becoming a renowned actress, she’s determined to make her mark on the stage—until fate intervenes when the theater goes up in flames. Enter Dante Manelli, a talented and ambitious architect with his own reputation to build. When this unlikely duo teams up, sparks of every kind begin to fly.
From a runaway actress and an arrogant architect to a deliciously entertaining fake courtship, this story offers a whirlwind of delights: sword fights, a daring kidnapping, and a cascade of heartfelt emotions. The witty banter kept me grinning, and watching Cerys and Dante stumble from pretense into genuine love was pure joy.
The secondary characters enrich the tale, providing humor and depth without ever stealing the spotlight. Misty Urban’s writing is charming, evocative, and brimming with life, making it easy to fall head over heels for both the characters and their journey.
If you love romance laced with adventure, humor, and heart, The Gentlemen’s Leading Lady is a must-read. I closed the book with a smile and an eager hope for more stories in this delightful series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book left me with the most joyful feeling!
Three of my favourite subjects – theatre, architecture & history – combined with a delicious heartwarming romcom. There’s mayhem but no miscomm, tricks but no deceit, and a ton of humour and heart.
Half Dutch, half Afro-Caribbean, Cerys is one of those rare beauties with a tenacious free spirit and the need to leave her mark. She kind of ran away, joined a theatre company, found friends and success... yet can’t shake the feeling they’re expecting her to walk away.
Anglo-Italian architect Dante is desperate to establish his professional reputation and finally offer his sisters and mom the grand home they deserve. For now, however, he’s stuck finishing a big renovation project in Cheltenham, an up-and-coming spa town.
A disastrous first impression, a theatre turned to ash, and now they’re stuck in the same house.
In walks Dante’s callous ex, unwilling to share her toy and brilliance strikes: Cerys will play his pretend girlfriend if he designs her a theatre. Win, win! Or is it?
From disdain to admiration to love, these two prefer the safe road – no spoilers! 😉 – but both felt it, and neither will admit: one kiss was all it took.
It’s a lighthearted, sweet and witty kisses only romp set in the most fascinating village that inspired me to do a bit of research, and so much was based on facts that my wee nerdy heart danced a little jig! Names, places, even the original 1823 Theatre Royal!
Add the colourful Dorsey Players, their top-notch version of Hamlet, laid-back nobs, a viper in dire need of wrangling, and a gritty Lady host. Mix them with a rainbow of emotions, quick wit and a drop of sarcasm. And serve with a side of architectural digest.
It makes for one enthralling read!
And I really really loved that nifty little family twist at the end!
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Three of my favourite subjects – theatre, architecture & history – combined with a delicious heartwarming romcom. There’s mayhem but no miscomm, tricks but no deceit, and a ton of humour and heart.
Half Dutch, half Afro-Caribbean, Cerys is one of those rare beauties with a tenacious free spirit and the need to leave her mark. She kind of ran away, joined a theatre company, found friends and success... yet can’t shake the feeling they’re expecting her to walk away.
Anglo-Italian architect Dante is desperate to establish his professional reputation and finally offer his sisters and mom the grand home they deserve. For now, however, he’s stuck finishing a big renovation project in Cheltenham, an up-and-coming spa town.
A disastrous first impression, a theatre turned to ash, and now they’re stuck in the same house.
In walks Dante’s callous ex, unwilling to share her toy and brilliance strikes: Cerys will play his pretend girlfriend if he designs her a theatre. Win, win! Or is it?
From disdain to admiration to love, these two prefer the safe road – no spoilers! 😉 – but both felt it, and neither will admit: one kiss was all it took.
It’s a lighthearted, sweet and witty kisses only romp set in the most fascinating village that inspired me to do a bit of research, and so much was based on facts that my wee nerdy heart danced a little jig! Names, places, even the original 1823 Theatre Royal!
Add the colourful Dorsey Players, their top-notch version of Hamlet, laid-back nobs, a viper in dire need of wrangling, and a gritty Lady host. Mix them with a rainbow of emotions, quick wit and a drop of sarcasm. And serve with a side of architectural digest.
It makes for one enthralling read!
And I really really loved that nifty little family twist at the end!
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
Review of advance copy
Cerys Evans has left her home to become an actress. She is headstrong and determined to make a name for herself. Dante Manelli is an architect trying to make a name for himself. He is arrogant and works hard for every success he has achieved. Cerys needs Dante’s help when the theater burns down, but can the two of them work together. Will Cerys and Dante find they were actually meant to be together?
I have truly enjoyed reading this series, and this book definitely did not disappoint. It was full of witty banter, highly entertaining, and so much fun. I loved how Cerys decided to start a fake relationship with Dante to help him thwart his ex-lover. It was a blast reading how they navigated their fake relationship and started to find themselves falling in love with each other. I was so happy with how they finally admitted their true feelings for each other and got their happily ever after. The secondary characters were great and added to the story without being a distraction. Overall, the book was beautifully written, and the characters were well-developed and extremely likable. I highly recommend this book!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have truly enjoyed reading this series, and this book definitely did not disappoint. It was full of witty banter, highly entertaining, and so much fun. I loved how Cerys decided to start a fake relationship with Dante to help him thwart his ex-lover. It was a blast reading how they navigated their fake relationship and started to find themselves falling in love with each other. I was so happy with how they finally admitted their true feelings for each other and got their happily ever after. The secondary characters were great and added to the story without being a distraction. Overall, the book was beautifully written, and the characters were well-developed and extremely likable. I highly recommend this book!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2026
We have Cerys Evans a talented actress with many lofty connections. She has been traveling with Dorsey Players and they have had much success until their theatre burned down along with most of their savings! She is determined to raise the funding needed to build another one. Cerys believes they only accepted her temporarily because they constantly speak of her leaving and becoming some man’s mistress! Cerys is beautiful, talented but has a lady’s upbringing to a certain extent! She has much higher aspirations!
Dante Manelli, Cheltenham's rising architect—arrogant, infuriating, and most decidedly not a gentleman. He is a gifted architect and he and Cerys immediately misunderstand each other!
It is a delightful blend of witty banter and lots of growling from Dante.
But Dante has a past that comes calling and what begins as a fake courtship to get back at an angry bitter Lady becomes so much more! Lady Bathsheba not only doesn’t like to loose she is a vindictive harpy! Dante is very insecure about himself despite his talents. What length would a vindictive person go to when they see a former lover happy? Very far despite consequences!
Dante and Cerys give off enough heat to fog glasses! I received an ARC copy from Booksprout for my unbiased review!
Dante Manelli, Cheltenham's rising architect—arrogant, infuriating, and most decidedly not a gentleman. He is a gifted architect and he and Cerys immediately misunderstand each other!
It is a delightful blend of witty banter and lots of growling from Dante.
But Dante has a past that comes calling and what begins as a fake courtship to get back at an angry bitter Lady becomes so much more! Lady Bathsheba not only doesn’t like to loose she is a vindictive harpy! Dante is very insecure about himself despite his talents. What length would a vindictive person go to when they see a former lover happy? Very far despite consequences!
Dante and Cerys give off enough heat to fog glasses! I received an ARC copy from Booksprout for my unbiased review!
July 26, 2026
The Actress and the Architect
“The Gentleman’s Leading Lady” is book twelve in Misty Urban’s series Ladies Least Likely. A delightful tale of sparring and clever banter as two characters who didn’t like each other looked beneath the surface and like what they found. Cerys is the actress, she left her home in Wales to follow her dream. Even though she acted a little immature now and then, I liked the character. I appreciated that she had the strength to strike out on her own. I also liked Dante, he was trying to build a name for himself as an architect and earn his place in the world as a gentleman. I enjoyed the “fake courting” aspect of the story and was glad to see Bathsheba thwarted in her ploy to attract Dante back into her arms. She was not a good person, an easy character to dislike and throw tension into a room she inhabited. A lot of secondary characters, especially the acting troupe, added to the enjoyment of the story. As far as steaminess goes, Dante and Cerys didn’t get any farther than kissing. I was waiting for more passion between the couple that never happened. I did think the pacing was a little choppy in places. Overall, it’s a good story that fits well into the Ladies Least Likely world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“The Gentleman’s Leading Lady” is book twelve in Misty Urban’s series Ladies Least Likely. A delightful tale of sparring and clever banter as two characters who didn’t like each other looked beneath the surface and like what they found. Cerys is the actress, she left her home in Wales to follow her dream. Even though she acted a little immature now and then, I liked the character. I appreciated that she had the strength to strike out on her own. I also liked Dante, he was trying to build a name for himself as an architect and earn his place in the world as a gentleman. I enjoyed the “fake courting” aspect of the story and was glad to see Bathsheba thwarted in her ploy to attract Dante back into her arms. She was not a good person, an easy character to dislike and throw tension into a room she inhabited. A lot of secondary characters, especially the acting troupe, added to the enjoyment of the story. As far as steaminess goes, Dante and Cerys didn’t get any farther than kissing. I was waiting for more passion between the couple that never happened. I did think the pacing was a little choppy in places. Overall, it’s a good story that fits well into the Ladies Least Likely world.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
June 30, 2026
One of the things I love most about this series is that it isn't solely focused on lords and ladies. Instead, it shines a light on a wonderful variety of characters from all walks of life, making the stories feel fresh and engaging.
Cerys is the leading lady of Dorsey's Players, but she's hiding secrets from her past. Dante, an architect of Italian heritage, initially clashes with her when they first meet. However, as circumstances continue to bring them together, their chemistry becomes impossible to ignore and the sparks soon begin to fly.
Adding to the story is one of Dante's former lovers, who is determined to rekindle their relationship, a theatre that must be rebuilt after a devastating fire, and a host of influential dignitaries eager to become better acquainted with Cerys. All these elements combine to create an entertaining and well-paced story.
What I appreciated most was the lack of unnecessary misunderstandings between the main characters. Instead, their relationship is built on witty banter, genuine attraction, humor, and growing trust, making their happily-ever-after all the more satisfying.
This is another delightful addition to a series I'm thoroughly enjoying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cerys is the leading lady of Dorsey's Players, but she's hiding secrets from her past. Dante, an architect of Italian heritage, initially clashes with her when they first meet. However, as circumstances continue to bring them together, their chemistry becomes impossible to ignore and the sparks soon begin to fly.
Adding to the story is one of Dante's former lovers, who is determined to rekindle their relationship, a theatre that must be rebuilt after a devastating fire, and a host of influential dignitaries eager to become better acquainted with Cerys. All these elements combine to create an entertaining and well-paced story.
What I appreciated most was the lack of unnecessary misunderstandings between the main characters. Instead, their relationship is built on witty banter, genuine attraction, humor, and growing trust, making their happily-ever-after all the more satisfying.
This is another delightful addition to a series I'm thoroughly enjoying.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 22, 2026
Sparks between the leading lady and the architect
Carys ran away from home to realise her dream to be on the stage. Theatre is in her blood even if she has only grudgingly been accepted by the Dorsey’s Players Company.
When the Queen’s Theatre in Cheltenham burns to the ground, her colleagues actors expect her – why her? – to work with architect, Dante Manelli, with whom she had clashed a few days before.
But, of course, they also need backers, who will invest in a new theatre. Well, maybe Carys can charm them into investing but she has no intention of sacrificing her virtue to the bad reputation of actresses. She will find and charm investors among the owners of the medicinal sources Cheltenham is renown for but no further. And she will ignore this too goodlooking, upstart Italian architect. Or will she?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Carys ran away from home to realise her dream to be on the stage. Theatre is in her blood even if she has only grudgingly been accepted by the Dorsey’s Players Company.
When the Queen’s Theatre in Cheltenham burns to the ground, her colleagues actors expect her – why her? – to work with architect, Dante Manelli, with whom she had clashed a few days before.
But, of course, they also need backers, who will invest in a new theatre. Well, maybe Carys can charm them into investing but she has no intention of sacrificing her virtue to the bad reputation of actresses. She will find and charm investors among the owners of the medicinal sources Cheltenham is renown for but no further. And she will ignore this too goodlooking, upstart Italian architect. Or will she?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2026
Cerys is an actress who's theater has burned down. Dante is the architect who's building the new theater. They enter into a fake relationship to throw off his evil ex who has set her sights back on him
.
Cerys is young, but can hold her own and has the confidence of someone who's lived a lot in 20 years. Dante is reserved and trying not to get burned again. There is a 12 year age gap but these characters are well matched. It was great seeing Cerys grown up and basically staring in the Ladies Least Likely : Second Generation. I loved watching her outsmart that viper of a woman who was Dante's ex.
Thank you to Misty Urban, Oliver Heber and Booksprout for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
.
Cerys is young, but can hold her own and has the confidence of someone who's lived a lot in 20 years. Dante is reserved and trying not to get burned again. There is a 12 year age gap but these characters are well matched. It was great seeing Cerys grown up and basically staring in the Ladies Least Likely : Second Generation. I loved watching her outsmart that viper of a woman who was Dante's ex.
Thank you to Misty Urban, Oliver Heber and Booksprout for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
I loved the two main characters. The leading lady was mischievous, impulsive yet highly perceptive and talented. The man was dependable yet a talented artist and architect. The book sees them meet after he4 theatre is destroyed by fire and he may be able to plan a rebuild. They meet, dislike each other to star5 then grow in passion for each other despite the presence of an interfering rival. A really good read that illustrated class differences and human resourcefulness without it ever be8ngbpreachy. There was a grea5 Welsh angle there too. Not many books reference bara brith.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Lead actress Cerys and architect Dante rub each other the wrong way from the first. But she sees his sketchbook, realizes there’s more to his designs than she assumed, and decides she will do whatever it takes for him to agree to design her acting troop’s new theater. But she foolishly draws the ire of his spiteful jealous ex which could lead to her downfall. Cerys was a little too certain about her options and vain enough to want lots of attention and approval. Dante was burned by his ex and doesn’t appreciate Cerys manipulations. This was an adversaries to lovers romance with a few suspenseful moments.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This twelfth book in the Ladies Least Likely series was a refreshing and original slow burn fake relationship historical romance. The characters were head strong, determined, and had good depth. A runaway actress, an arrogant architect, a fake courtship, sword-fighting, a kidnapping, an unusual Hamlet, and strong emotions with other issues were very entertaining. I really enjoyed all the witty banter and how engaging their journey to love was! I hope there will be another book or 4 in this series! I highly recommend reading!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Attraction of Opposites 4.5*
An actress who keeps her past very private and a gentleman with an emotional suit of armour, clash on their first meeting but then find themselves lodging in the same property. Dislike turns into sparks, but Dante’s ex-lover is determined to get him back and Cerys is standing in her way! Feisty Cerys does all she can to needle Bathsheba and in doing so triggers an unexpected and potentially fatal reaction.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Booksprout. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An actress who keeps her past very private and a gentleman with an emotional suit of armour, clash on their first meeting but then find themselves lodging in the same property. Dislike turns into sparks, but Dante’s ex-lover is determined to get him back and Cerys is standing in her way! Feisty Cerys does all she can to needle Bathsheba and in doing so triggers an unexpected and potentially fatal reaction.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from Booksprout. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did like the characters of Cerys and Dante, although I couldn’t quite understand why they were so hostile to each other at first. Cerys was determined to help build a permanent theatre in Cheltenham for their group of actors. Dante is an architect with the vision to achieve this. The embittered old flame that appeared, added interest, as did many of the secondary characters. I did find the pace a little slow for me, as well as too much inner thoughts by the main characters. Also, I do like an epilogue and unfortunately this story didn’t have one. I received a copy via Booksprout and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
Fascinating look at someone beside lords and ladies! Fell in love with Dante, the Italian architect, whose creativity was being stolen by others using his talent. Also fell in love with Cerys, an accomplished actress who wants to be seen. The way Cerys worms her way into Dante's heart is wonderful. I really wanted something bad to happen to Lady Baeccon is no lady, but a villainous person who deserved more than to be sent home far away from our MCs. Although I received an ARC from Booksprout, my opinions are my own and freely posted.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“The Gentleman’s Leading Lady” by Misty Urban
-A charming historical romance filled with witty banter, humor, and heart. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Cerys and Dante’s fake relationship slowly turns into a sweet slow-burn romance with wonderful chemistry. The theatre setting, engaging characters, and light adventure make this an enjoyable read.
A fun, kisses-only romance culminating in a happy ending.
-A charming historical romance filled with witty banter, humor, and heart. I received a free copy and am voluntarily sharing my honest thoughts.
Cerys and Dante’s fake relationship slowly turns into a sweet slow-burn romance with wonderful chemistry. The theatre setting, engaging characters, and light adventure make this an enjoyable read.
A fun, kisses-only romance culminating in a happy ending.
July 1, 2026
This was a great story to see Cerys all grown up and on her own. She has grown into the woman we always knew she could be, and Dante never knew what hit him! To have two strong-minded people start out the thinking almost the exactly same negative thing about the other when they meet, and then discover differently was a lot of fun to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 15, 2026
Cerys and Dante are a fascinating couple. He is painfully straightforward though maybe not as honest with himself while she has a bit of mystery to follow her. Their ill-advised connection is powerful. I love all of the characters with their vivid personalities and the beautiful images of Cheltenham.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 2, 2026
I enjoyed reading this book. This is a fast read that quickly pulled me in. I liked the characters and the plot and will be looking for more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 3, 2026
This book has something for everyone. The characters are delicious. There's drama and kidnapping and enough intrigue to keep the reader turning the pages. But my absolute favorite draw to a story is snarky or witty banter and this book does not disappoint. Exceptional.
July 3, 2026
An enjoyable read about an actress and the architect she gets to help design a new theatre after the old one mysteriously burns down. Their interactions lead to more, but who set the fire and will they try again.
July 4, 2026
Its Cerys' turn. She's been in other stories at a younger age but here's her time to shine. Well written plot deals with the in and outs of theater and architecture while weaving a tale around this artist, her family and love. Engaging and entertaining all in one. A lovely add to the series.
July 15, 2026
She’s a lady…
But Cerys ran away to be an actress in the stage. Clearly she needed external validation and applause. So she’s a magnate for drama and it funds her when the theater burns down. Dante is an architect and she concocts a scheme.
But Cerys ran away to be an actress in the stage. Clearly she needed external validation and applause. So she’s a magnate for drama and it funds her when the theater burns down. Dante is an architect and she concocts a scheme.
Did Not Finish
June 24, 2026I would like to thank booksprout and the author for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
This was dragging, and I really didn’t like the way that the hero was thinking about the heroine.
This was dragging, and I really didn’t like the way that the hero was thinking about the heroine.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews