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Linfield Hall #1

Lady August

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August Summer thinks she is a nobody until a London solicitor barges into her employer’s drawing room, revealing not only is she the daughter of an earl but a wealthy heiress as well. Optimistic about a new life, she travels to her ancestral home of Linfield Hall, only for her brother to banish her to London to live with her aunt, a dowager duchess with a reputation.

When Lord Bolton asks him to fetch his illegitimate daughter, solicitor Samuel Brooks does not expect himself to become so invested in the young woman’s debut after wanting nothing to do with dinners and balls before. But as August navigates her way through this new world of the British aristocracy, Brooks is the one who is most dazzled by her unexpected charms.

Since society demands every young girl must marry, August decides she will accept nothing less than someone’s heart in exchange for possession of her newfound fortune. Forced to reexamine his negative views of love and marriage or lose August forever, Brooks soon realizes his heart is the only thing in danger of becoming possessed.

310 pages, Paperback

First published March 30, 2021

42 people are currently reading
1528 people want to read

About the author

Becky Michaels

3 books47 followers
Becky Michaels is a historical romance author and self-proclaimed Anglophile. After graduating from Boston University with a degree in English, she reluctantly decided to get a day job but never stopped writing—or dreaming. THE LAND STEWARD’S DAUGHTER, a Regency romance set in 1815 England, is her debut novel. Despite the cold winters and high rent, she still lives in the Boston area with her boyfriend and cat.

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5 stars
79 (23%)
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113 (33%)
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96 (28%)
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35 (10%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
Profile Image for Maditales.
625 reviews32.9k followers
December 31, 2023
From an orphan to the heir of a an estate…
This story had everything a historical romance needed but sadly still some things missed: the tension and slow build up.

How do I explain:
August is a super sweet girl that pretty quickly adapts to her new reality and right away seems fond of Samuel as well as intrigued by his “mysterious” way of living.

And I loved the little family drama we had in the book especially in relation to August’s new half siblings but wowwwwww. I do not see how some of these characters are supposed to get a redemption.

On top of that I was more invested in the romance story of August’s sister instead of hers just because it had more mystery and way more tension.

The attraction between august and Samuel felt extremely superficial and in comparison to how attraction and tension was written between other characters in the same book, it fell flat.

I wish this book was maybe a bit longer especially after the third act just because the conflict was not (in my opinion) resolved correctly.
Profile Image for Sarah.
554 reviews35 followers
May 3, 2021
'August Summer thinks she is a nobody until a London solicitor barges into her employer’s drawing room, revealing not only is she the daughter of an earl but a wealthy heiress as well. Optimistic about a new life, she travels to her ancestral home of Linfield Hall, only for her brother to banish her to London to live with her aunt, a dowager duchess with a reputation.

When Lord Bolton asks him to fetch his illegitimate daughter, solicitor Samuel Brooks does not expect himself to become so invested in the young woman’s debut after wanting nothing to do with dinners and balls before. But as August navigates her way through this new world of the British aristocracy, Brooks is the one who is most dazzled by her unexpected charms.

Since society demands every young girl must marry, August decides she will accept nothing less than someone’s heart in exchange for possession of her newfound fortune. Forced to reexamine his negative views of love and marriage or lose August forever, Brooks soon realizes his heart is the only thing in danger of becoming possessed.'
______________________________

3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.

Lady August is historical romance by Becky Michaels and is a stand alone.

Lady August follows the rags-to-riches storyline that we all know. But this one is a little different in that instead of finding her Prince Charming in a high-placed duke, marquess, or even earl she finds him in Brooks. Working as and raised to be a solicitor, Brooks has been surrounded by the aristocracy his entire life, but he is not truly one of them. He is stuck in in someplace between and that, a least for me, made the story better. There is some suspension of belief needed where liberties were taken with some historical details, but I didn't mind.

The story was really sweet and I liked both main characters. August is really open and accepting, Brooks is very repressed and self-sabatoging. My only complaint is that the resolution happened quite quickly it seemed. But it didn't really take away from the story so it's not even really a complaint. It just seemed that after holding onto those secrets for so long only to be ready to share them after one such conflict surprised me, but I guess it was a bit of an eye-opener. I wish the secrets he'd been holding back could have come to light on his own terms.

I have now read both books that this author has thus far published, this being the second, and I have enjoyed them both. I will be reading more from her in the future and would recommend them to others. I find myself hoping that the author will expand on this book and hopefully write a book about Rosamund. Still removed to her aunt's home at the end of this book, it feels like there's more to her story.
______

I would like to thank Becky Michaels and BookSirens or sharing an eARC of Lady August with me. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Finitha Jose.
317 reviews47 followers
May 14, 2021
I don't know why I hesitated to read this book sooner. Not the time, I guess. As you can see from the blurb, this is a dreamy rag to riches regency romance filled with humour, a bit of adventure and some rare rave characters.
Is there anyone who hasn't dreamed of a secret inheritance that takes you out of this dreary life? Well, for August Summer, our practical defiant heroine who never wasted her time on dreaming, this had become a reality. Within a day, the orphan girl is surprised with the knowledge of a father (an Earl, nonetheless) and a large inheritance he left out of guilt.
Hmm, money might make matters a lot easy but acceptance by society is another thing. Luckily, our author has created a regency romance with fairly modern characters -- a dowager duchess openly having affairs, a forgiving husband and a solicitor who is not concerned about his future wife's virginity. Yup, I too wondered the same. Is this really the 1800s?
The historical inaccuracies aside, August's pursuit to secure the love of Samuel Brooks formed the basis of a really cute story. Brooks is a complex character and I would have preferred if the author had allowed a bit more plot development for August to understand the man better. The much anticipated happy ending came way too early.
Considering the way it concluded I am expecting a continuation of the story of August's sister, Rosamund and the Duke. I have no doubt that all her stories make perfect weekend reads.
Profile Image for IslandGirl Reads.
307 reviews22 followers
April 22, 2021
Rating 3.5 stars.

Lady August was quite an enjoyable read and perfect for fans of Regency historical romance. Though its set in a historical time period, the story feels both familiar and fresh and touched on topics that are relevant today. This novel is character driven and I was intrigued by the varied cast. The Dowager Duchess was one of my favorites, she was a lady ahead of her time but understood the responsibility of family. Brooks - always brooding, shied away from romance; however, he was quite taken by Lady August though reluctant to admit it. Lady August was strong and resilient and complemented Brooks in a way that made them perfect for each other.

This book had several side stories within the main plot which kept me engaged throughout. I was eager to see what would happen with Lady August and Brooks but also vested in Rosamund’s relationship with her Fiance as well as the Dowager Duchess’s scandalous tryst with a certain younger male. The book could’ve used more tension between the main characters and I thought the ending was a tad predictable. Despite those drawbacks, it proved to be a delightful read and is perfect for fans of Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton novels.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Elodie’s Reading Corner.
2,554 reviews152 followers
March 26, 2021
Lady August
Becky Michaels
https://www.facebook.com/BexWritesBooks/
Release Date 03/30/2021
Publisher Mildred Books

𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯

August Summer thinks she is a nobody until a London solicitor barges into her employer’s drawing room, revealing not only is she the daughter of an earl but a wealthy heiress as well. Optimistic about a new life, she travels to her ancestral home of Linfield Hall, only for her brother to banish her to London to live with her aunt, a dowager duchess with a reputation.

When Lord Bolton asks him to fetch his illegitimate daughter, solicitor Samuel Brooks does not expect himself to become so invested in the young woman’s debut after wanting nothing to do with dinners and balls before. But as August navigates her way through this new world of the British aristocracy, Brooks is the one who is most dazzled by her unexpected charms.

Since society demands every young girl must marry, August decides she will accept nothing less than someone’s heart in exchange for possession of her newfound fortune. Forced to reexamine his negative views of love and marriage or lose August forever, Brooks soon realizes his heart is the only thing in danger of becoming possessed.

𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄

Will he let his fear drive her away ...

It is the cover that caught my eyes first, I even thought it was a comics or manga, why I expected more of an historical rom-com.

I was a bit annoyed with August, she is a daring young woman who takes not well-thought risks. She is young, bored and aware life will offer less than more as a poor orphan.
But with each dare, comes a price.
She will later discover how much reckless acts could cost her.
After with no real prospect, I can understand she wanted to have a taste of what is so forbidden to young misses, but the risks may come with a tremendous price, I think she risked much for even less than expected.
Outside this risk-taking side, she is a lively and caring woman, who is fast to stand on her two feet when thrown from one place to another.
She adapts and learns to voice what she wants or not, even when her caregiver is quite much improper in the eyes of polite society.
Samuel Brooks is a man who closed the door to any form of closeness and affection. He is determined to never love nor marry, his relatives examples give him credence that he is on the right path.
Yet he is drawn to his new charge turned employer. He might deny it, and run away every time they get too close. Still, nothing can free him from the pull he feels for her.
But damaged he is and for him to hand his trust and his heart is like shattering his whole life oath.
I was upset at him for being so tight lipped about the reason behind his dislike of marriage, he could have shared them with August. Voicing his fears could have helped him to overcome them. Why it is up to her to dig into Brooks past to unravel the mystery he is.

There are some errors I suppose will be corrected by time of the release, like the age of the heroine 20, 21 or 23, 2 or 3 years working as a governess.
After I wondered why does she never call him by his first name, he is no nobility, so when in intimacy, he could simply be Samuel.
Then there is what is impossible, people calling her a lady, whatever a peer would demande, she can never be no one else than a miss, acknowledged child or not. An orphan from unknown parents, an illegitimate daughter, an acknowledged but out of wedlock daughter could never be called a lady.
3.5 rounded up 4 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen lovemaking scenes

I have been granted an advance copy by the author, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Profile Image for Tabassum Irin (whatirinreads).
178 reviews111 followers
August 18, 2021
4.75/5 🌟 I loved reading Lady August so much ~ this is the first historical romance I've read (I've read historical fiction before, but not one that centered mainly around the romance) and I'm just so... amazed? Also, the author mentioned in the acknowledgement section that she named August after Taylor Swift's song from the Folklore album. My heart is so full right now 😭

Set in the Regency era, this book was a joyous ride from the beginning to end. August and Brooks were such fascinating characters, I was rooting for them from the very beginning of the story. Brooks was adamant about never settling down, so seeing August find her way to winning Brooks' heart was just so delightful! ❤️

I loved how the book portrayed some modern themes too (you'll see when you read the book, don't want to give out spoilers lol) and added a refreshing touch to the whole storyline. All the drama that unraveled throughout the book was just *chef's kiss* The supporting characters were all perfectly written into the storyline. Highly recommended picking this book up if you want to get out of a slump!
Profile Image for Rajiv.
982 reviews72 followers
May 10, 2021

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“Lady August” was a fun rags-to-riches historical romance that works well because of the main characters.

The author wrote the characters in a complex manner. I liked the conflicting feelings Brooks has towards August. The two of them share an interesting dynamic, and you could see the chemistry between them. Moreover, I adored Brooks more than August. I loved the way he protects August from her newfound family, especially with Charles. It was also fun seeing him trying to control his feelings for August as he is only her solicitor.

Similarly, August is terrific in the role. The author gave her many storylines, and she never had a dull moment. I particularly loved her bond with Rosamund and the news she gets from Lady Sarah. I also appreciated how the author gave importance to the supporting characters, like Rosamund and Ridlington. Also, I enjoyed the Aunt and the way she trains August into society.

While this book is primarily a historical romance, I also liked August’s journey to adapt to her new life. The author spends time with the character’s struggles and storylines, as much as the romance. Likewise, even Brooks’s plot with Swinton was one of the highlights. Another reason why I enjoyed the book was that it also shows the challenges of the relationship. Brooks and August face challenges even once you think things got sorted, making you want to read till the very end to find out what happens. On a side note, I loved the scenes where they talk about Lucy.

Overall, “Lady August” is a cute, charming historical romance that I liked reading.
Profile Image for i_hype_romance.
1,191 reviews53 followers
August 21, 2021
I absolutely adored this sweet regency romance. And now I'm determined to devour everything author Becky Michaels writes.

Here are the reasons I could not put it down:
1. An unapologetically down to earth heroine who is content with what she needs, and doesn't give a fig about keeping up with the Joneses.
2. A stoic hero who emerges from his chrysalis because he can't resist her grit and glitter.

When Lady August inherits a fortune, she is grateful for her improved circumstances. But she feels like a fatted goose thrown to the wolves, and begins to find the entire ordeal of conformity tedious. The only brightness in her days occurs because of her encounters with her disconcertingly handsome, yet impervious, solicitor.

This delightful slow-burn romance features a hero with motion sickness and a penchant for whiskey and a heroine who has no qualms whatsoever about remaining true to herself.

A full review will be up on my blog 5/26. Thank you so much @hfvbt and the author for sending me a copy of this wonderful book.

Steam rating: PG
Star Rating: 4.5 Stars
Published 3/31/21 and available from all major booksellers.
Profile Image for Connie Saunders.
1,838 reviews161 followers
June 3, 2021
The prologue of this book introduces Samuel Brooks as an eight-year-old boy who overhears a conversation that would remain with him all of his life. I was drawn to this young boy who had already decided that there were no happy marriages, but, as the story continues, I couldn't decide how I felt about him as an adult. It is twenty-two years later that Brooks is asked to find the illegitimate daughter of his client, and his life's destiny is forever changed. He still doesn't believe in love and marriage, but he does feel protective feelings toward August Summer, the young governess who turns out to be Lord Bolton's daughter. I had no doubts about my feelings for August! I liked this independent and spunky girl who was shocked to learn that she was an heiress, and mystified about her new position in London society. How would she handle the many suitors who were eager to court her? Were they interested in her, or were they anxious to learn just how much dowry she had to offer?

Romance lovers will enjoy the intense relationship that develops between August and Brooks. Yes, there is definitely a physical attraction, but there is also the connection of two people who have experienced deep hurts in their pasts. Brooks is willing to protect August, but can he overcome his fears and doubt, and offer her what she truly wants? Are love and trust possible?

Fans of historical fiction will enjoy Lady August, a realistic glimpse of British society as it was in 1816 London. Author Becky Michaels offers fascinating characters, intriguing complications, and alluring regency romance, but there are some issues that may prove to be disturbing to readers, such as domestic violence, sibling death, and depression. There are also some steamy scenes between husband and wife.

I received a copy of this book from the author via Historical Fiction Virtual Book Tours. There was no obligation for a favorable review. These are my own thoughts.
Profile Image for ariella.
77 reviews99 followers
November 16, 2025
don’t run, SPRINT to read this book!! this was SUCCHHH a cute book and just so old timie that i wish i was in that era. i loved this book so much and already started the 2nd one

MR. BROOKS IS *chefs kiss* muah 💋 🤌
Profile Image for steph ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚.
45 reviews12 followers
January 16, 2025
this was a nice read! obviously very predictable and there were some pretty unlikable characters, but i still heavily enjoyed it.
1,383 reviews20 followers
March 28, 2021
August Summer started her life as an orphan and then with the help of a benefactor was put into a girls school. There she started creating a good life for herself and eventually went on to be a governess for a good family. Then one day everything changed. She is the illegitimate daughter of a dying Earl who wants to meet his daughter before he dies and leave her a dowry that will make her a very wealthy woman.
Her father's solicitor, Samuel Brooks is sent to fetch the Earl's daughter. Samuel has been completely disillusioned about marriage by his family, the families of his friends and by the relationships of his friends.
This is a fun story in which a young woman has everything that can go wrong, go wrong but her attitude is over the top positive finding ways to create a family and love all around her. I smiled through the whole book.
Profile Image for Yvette.
795 reviews26 followers
May 6, 2021
There’s a dash of the Cinderella in this Regency story, complete with a cruel step-mother figure and an avaricious sibling. But in the hands of Becky Michaels, Lady August also manages to feel quite modern, as her heroine is no innocent maiden and the hero is no one dimensional prince.

August Summer, erstwhile orphan and governess whose one wish is to have a family, is surprised to learn that her father is alive – though not long for this world – and an Earl. To honor his dying wishes, she must be given a Season and be introduced to society, so she’s shipped off to London to be chaperoned by her aunt, a widow of a certain reputation. The attempts to sabotage her debut do not end there, but at every slight or threat, solicitor Samuel Brooks is quick to defend her. Though he makes for a reluctant and rather anti-social hero, August is soon smitten by her marriage-averse champion.

Lady August does, at times, bring to mind other romances I’ve enjoyed, while still being distinctly it’s own story. The cast of secondary characters helps to keep things lively, and there are few, if any, lulls in the story.

With themes of infidelity, betrayal, and with the history of abuse in the Brooks family, this is still a surprisingly upbeat and charming story, mostly due to the irrepressible August. And while the cover – which is lovely – is reflective of August’s spirit, it does not reflect the fact that this is an open door romance that includes intimacies between characters, accompanied with occasionally graphic language.

All in all, a very entertaining and enjoyable Historical Romance read. If you enjoy Regency romance on the frisky side with a plucky heroine and a damaged hero, Lady August might be just your cup of tea.

This review refers to a finished paperback I voluntarily received from the author. A positive review was not required and these are only my own, honest opinions.
Profile Image for Ashley.
366 reviews
May 8, 2021
Wow! This book is great! Every time I picked up "Lady August", I was whisked back in time to the Regency Era, and went on such a journey with this Cinderella-esque story.

This is the first book I have read by Becky Michaels, and it won't be my last! Her storytelling is spectacular, and she truly knows how to bring her story to life. The characters she writes all feel like incredibly real people; they have depth, and, as the reader, I could really feel their wants, fears, and desires. Moreover, she seamlessly intertwines characters and plot. I felt like I was back in time, truly immersed from the first page to the last.

August was raised believing herself to be an orphan, lived in an orphanage, and then began work as a governess. When a solicitor shows up, informing her that she is in fact the daughter of an Earl and his mistress, and her father wishes to meet her before his death, August's life changes in an instant. Samuel Brooks, the solicitor whose job it is to go and tell August the news, does not wish to marry. He has had a traumatic past, and is understandably against it. Never could either of them imagine that a chance meeting will forever change the path of their lives. As August wants to marry for love, and Samuel begins to fall and truly care for August, will these two follow their hearts and fall in love? You will just have to read to find out.

If you enjoy historical romance, I highly recommend this book! It had me turning the pages to see what would happen next, and I can't wait to see what Ms. Michaels writes next!

Thank you so much to HFVBT and Becky Michaels for the ARC of this book! All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Profile Image for Cass.
132 reviews22 followers
May 14, 2021
*Big thanks to BookSirens and the author for the free review copy!*

I've been in a recent love-hate relationship lately with historical romance. I think it's just been hard for me to find books that are a good blend of the two genres, without being too historical-detail-oriented or too over the top. THIS however was a wonderful blend of the two and I flew through it on this beautiful morning.

August was an incredibly fun heroine, her Aunt was an icon, and the steamy scenes were so well done! I also really liked the semi-rags to riches slant, it was an interesting take on things! The ending felt a bit rushed, and isn't my typical preferred ending, but endings are hard and overall this was a really solid book.
Profile Image for Kaitlyn.
138 reviews
July 8, 2021
I adored this sweet summer read. Lady August is a lighthearted romance that follows a regular girl named August who discovers she's the daughter of an earl. Samuel Brooks, her father's solicitor, brings her home. Though Samuel doesn't believe in marriage, he can't help but be attracted to August, and must decide what to do before he loses her forever.

I'm a big romance reader, and found this book easy to pick up. I think anyone who enjoys historical romance will enjoy reading Becky Michaels's work.

I also love the illustrated cover designed by Leni Kauffman.
Profile Image for Brenda.
3,498 reviews46 followers
March 28, 2021
Lord Bolton is on his deathbed and asks his solicitor to fetch his illegitimate daughter, August Summe. August thinks she is a nobody until that fateful day when Samuel Brooks comes to take her to meet a father she has never known.

This second novel by a previously unknown Author to me is awesome. Filled with intrigue this book deserves a five star review.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for rosa.
424 reviews5 followers
September 10, 2021
He was halfway out the door when August called his name. He immediately turned around, facing her. His eagerness made him feel all the more foolish."
literally one of my favorite reads of the year... i think becky michaels is very very talented and amazing <3. these characters 😭😭😭 (the ones i like and the ones i hate) !!!! august was so sweet and kind and perfect for brooks like... you don't get it, but they served the perfect grumpy/sunshine historical romance dynamic 🤷‍♀️. also brooks caring so much and denying himself happiness was also very sexy. can't wait to see how charles redeems himself because 🙄(btw i'm going crazy, i NEED book RN).
Profile Image for ruth.
25 reviews
November 16, 2021
I never knew I'll go for historical romance, but this book changed my mind. Looking forward for the next book in the series!
Profile Image for Michelle Fritz PA.
1,359 reviews98 followers
May 20, 2021
This beautifully covered book is stunningly addictive and brilliantly entertaining! From that very first page I was captivated and eager for more. I simply could not get enough. The ending was a tad bittersweet for me, as I never wanted this beautiful book to end. There were so many delightful characters that all had tales to tell and I hope that one day soon we are gifted with them.

August is easy to adore. She's sweet and kind hearted with a wild stubborn streak that all of the best heroine's possess. She made a grave mistake that comes back to haunt her. I like to think that with the maturity of age, she wouldn't have made that mistake. But who knows? She longs to belong and be loved and she's so very loveable!

Brooks is the absolute perfect male swoony hero. He comes onto the rescue with all of his wits about him, and yet his heart soon awakens. He doesn't want a wife and most certainly not one that everyone seems to keep pushing him towards. But he can't deny his heart nor his duty. His staunch attitude makes for a few drunken episodes that absolutely bring out more shades of his character. He's positively delightful.

I'm so excited that I've found a new favorite author! I can't wait to read her other work. This was thrillingly enjoyable and I can't wait to go back for a re-read. These characters are layered so deeply into my heart now. One click this steamy regency romance and fall in love today!
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.7k reviews362 followers
March 31, 2021
August Summer began as an orphan. Through a benefactor, she was placed in a school and became a governess. But when Lord Bolton, the father she never knew, was dying, he wanted her to be acknowledged and take her place as befits the daughter of an Earl.

Samuel Brooks, the solicitor of her father, is dispatched to bring August home. His own past experiences seeing unhealthy relationships have soured him on marriage. As he sees her on multiple occasions, he feels an attraction for her, however. Will he be able to change his mind about marriage, realizing not all are alike and it depends on what you are willing to put into it? Will he take a chance to begin a relationship with her? Or will he risk losing her forever?
Profile Image for Tiffany.
Author 4 books65 followers
June 2, 2021
Romance and Historical fiction

This was such a nice, fun sweetheart romance. This novel is The Princess Diaries meets Bridgerton. August is a regular girl until she finds out that she is the daughter of an Earl. Casted out by her brother, she is sent to live with her aunt. While August finds herself caught up in the traditions and new lifestyle of royalty, she is unwilling to give her heart up for anything but true love.

August was a relatable, lovable protagonist, while Brooks was a charming leading man. You couldn’t help but root for these two. The story moves at a good pace, and it was an entertaining read.

I would recommend this novel to fans of Regency romance and contemporary romance novels.
Profile Image for Diana (DomesticGoddess).
1,460 reviews28 followers
December 17, 2021
Willfully celibate, he reminded himself, though perhaps he ought to go to Covent Garden more often if a mere governess could have such an effect on him.

Men have been categorizing us since the beginning of time. We are either pure and innocent or sullied and virtueless. Well, I refuse to be either, and I prefer men who do not care—as should you.”
Profile Image for Amanda.
207 reviews18 followers
April 30, 2021
This was a delightful read, balancing modern sensibilities with a Regency romance. The heroine has plenty of agency and isn’t afraid to speak her mind, and our hero is full of well rounded emotions. I thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Profile Image for Courtney.
3,096 reviews7 followers
March 25, 2021
I received an ARC from the author/publisher via Hidden Gems. I am voluntarily posting a review.

Lady August continues two “grand” traditions (curses?) that have contributed to my embitterment to new-to-me Regency romance authors: the “illustrated cover” and the “emotionally stunted hero.” As for the former, it stings primarily because I was drawn to the cover art by Leni Kauffmann, whose art really stands out among the pack. Although a “cover buy” (or whatever the equivalent is for review copies) with little consideration for the content is always going to be a gamble, as I’ve often found out.

Meanwhile, the latter had me feel like I was reading an updated version of The Duke and I without the really problematic stuff (or really any of the scores of books where the hero has an unrealistically large chip on his shoulder and you just want to drop-kick him into the 21st century and drag him to therapy). While I was excited Brooks actually had a profession instead of being another lord, my excitement dimmed with his first declaration he would never marry; and then repeated it, rubbing it in so you know what the plot twist making him marry is going to be. And the reasoning was so weird, like he’d seen his parents’ marriage fail due to his father being horrible, and he’d also seen other marriages fall apart. But by making that choice, he’s proving the point of the “nature vs. nurture” debate. He has good intentions, and if he tries, he has the potential to persevere. Sure, some follow in the destructive paths of their parents, but others go in the opposite direction character wise without refusing to live their life.

And of course, his past plays a role in influencing the Big Misunderstanding with August…at that point, I didn’t even know if I wanted them together, which is horrible to say about a romance.

There are some good elements here. August is a lovely heroine, and I feel like she had a lot of potential, especially with her shadowy background. I rooted for her to triumph against her former lover and “wicked stepmother,” and I did appreciate that Brooks looked out for her in that regard…I just feel like them getting together was a mistake, or at least the way it happened was.

I do think Becky Michaels has talent, as I found the story engaging enough to read in an afternoon, and there are some other little subplots that intrigued me, making me hope we haven’t seen the last of these characters. And even if not, I am totally willing to give her another chance if the premise appeals to me more. I just have a massive bone to pick with this specific character archetype. However, I do realize that archetype is featured so often because it’s popular with readers, so I think if that’s your catnip, you’ll love this book.
Profile Image for Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews.
5,476 reviews178 followers
June 18, 2021
This synopsis sounded amazing. The best part was that the synopsis didn’t give every plot thread away. I’m thrilled to tell you that Lady August is so much more than just the synopsis. Thank you Becky Michaels.

I was excited to read a story about a heroine that was consider a nobody until it was revealed that she was in fact the daughter of an earl. It was wonderful to read how that transpired and evolved. I appreciated the detail involved with the significance of the heroine’s name, August Summer. Her character was smart, strong and mixed with a little naivety. I easily related to her and quickly cheered her on.

The hero, Samuel Brooks, was a steady hero but not my typical book boyfriend. While he worked well with August, he had some issues he had to deal with that I felt he over-dramatized. However, Samuel and August were heartwarming together.

The best part of this story was that it was like an onion. There were multiple characters with side plot lines. It was easy and fun to follow along. I found the pace to be consistent and non-troublesome as some story lines flowed with expected and unexpected situations.

The writing style was smooth and authentic for a historical novel minus one curse word, or so I thought. I Googled the timing of when that curse word was invented and was surprised to learn that it is indeed an accurate historical curse word.

One thing that was an eye-opener was how the majority of the love scenes were sweet/sensual. It wasn’t until near the end of the book that a certain couple turned up the heat level. I wasn’t prepared for that intense heat index. Fortunately I don’t have an issue with that but my mother would. Ha, ha.

In conclusion, Lady August was a very nice read. I’m not sure if this is a series or not but I would like a book with the hero being August’s brother Charles. I’d like to see him redeemed. A third book would be nice with the heroine being August’s sister, Rosamund. I’d like Rosamund to find her happily ever after. I loved the epilogue that did tie up all the lose threads and gave me a feeling of satisfaction. I am just greedy and wanted more. Lady August is a welcoming addition to my list of books that I gladly recommend.
Profile Image for James W.
223 reviews14 followers
April 12, 2021
Becky Michael’s latest novel, ‘Lady August,’ is a Regency-era ‘rags-to-riches,’ opposites-attract romance that eschews a ‘paint-by-numbers’ approach for a deep dive into the murky motivations that guide us all.

Raised in an orphanage, August Summer was no stranger to hardship. But through Dickensian stroke of luck, at the age of eighteen, she suddenly becomes a governess. Immediately and woefully out of place in her new life, the task of August’s assimilation into high-society is assigned to a lawyer named Samuel Brooks. Per his client, the Earl of Bolton’s request, Brooks reluctantly accepts the task.

Brooks soon becomes infatuated with the young heiress, but his pragmatic and cynical disposition regarding all-things marriage, heavily rooted in childhood trauma, places him at odds with his heart. What follows is an exercise in a romantic tension, one that leans heavily on suspense and offers readers a surprisingly nuanced plot and healthy doses of historical context.

For her part, Michael’s second foray into the realm of historical fiction feels that much more confident. The Boston-based author has never had an issue painting the picture of pre-Victorian England, but her greatest asset this time around just so happens to be the messy, flawed protagonists at the heart of this story. Be it August’s debilitating feelings of inadequacy or Samuel’s penchant for self-sabotage, the characters at the heart of this story might be from another century, but they ‘feel’ incredibly real and contemporary.

While the brisk pace and abundance of modern vernacular may irk purists, ‘Lady August’ is a solid narrative that would work in nearly any decade. In fact, I could argue that if this novel had been set during the ‘Jazz Age’—I don’t know why, but the cover immediately had me thinking of Fitzgerald’s ‘Tender is the Night’—the story might’ve even had more impact.

Regardless, ‘Lady August’ is a win in my book—for fans of historical fiction, highly recommended.
Profile Image for Jazmín Rojas ✨.
148 reviews
September 10, 2021
3 ⭐ para Lady August 💔
Mal ahí porque esperaba más del libro, en ese sentido le decepcionó un poco. Pese a todo, lo disfruté bastante, más que nada la primera parte. En un rato reseña.

RESEÑA
Lady August resultó ser una pequeña decepción, tengo que admitir. Pero empecemos desde un principio. Resulta que esta novela ambientada en la época de la regencia inglesa, aproximadamente en 1870 (siglo XVIII), nos va a llevar a través de la historia de una institutriz huérfana de clase media que descubrirá que su padre no es nada menos que un poderoso y muy adinerado hombre que planea dejarle una gran dote tras su muerte, y no solo eso, sino que también desea que se la presente en sociedad como a una señorita de alta cuna.
Acá empieza el primer error para mi. Nos introducen a una protagonista super reacia a hacer lo que el padre quiere e incluso capaz de violar las normas sociales, alguien empoderada, curiosa y que va a por lo que quiere. Pero de un momento a otro ya es toda una señorita del bien que llora y se sonroja con delicadeza como si nunca hubiera roto un plato en su vida 😂. Sentí que me estaban cambiando de protagonistas y estaba viendo a dos personajes completamente diferentes. Si bien no me hubiese molestado de ser mejor desarrollado, siento que tengo que mencionarlo porque paso en varias ocasiones.
A pesar de todo, la historia me resultó divertida y liviana, aunque no me daban particulares ganas de abrir el libro, pero eso creo que es porque estaba esperando otra cosa y me jugaron mal las expectativas. En realidad es una novela rápida de leer y a niveles generales la recomiendo, porque de hecho si que me reí y la disfrute, pero simplemente no tanto como pensé que haría. Si están buscando un libro tipo los Bridgerton: con romance histórico, humor y un poco de found family, probablemente este sea su libro, así que espero que lo disfruten.
3 ⭐
Profile Image for Liliya.
520 reviews10 followers
August 31, 2022
The premise of Lady August sounded good at first, it is a standard cutesy romance read, but unfortunately, it ended up being super unoriginal and basic. August is a poor girl who learns her father has left her a fortune. His solicitor Samuel brings August back to wealth where she must navigate her new family’s dramas, being out as a debutante, and falling in love with an unavailable man.

The characters are fine, they are very basic and need a great plot to compensate.. which did not happen. August did not act realistically and she was not developed at all. She called her birth mother “mom” the first time they were introduced as mother and daughter and their whole reunion was extremely casual and just accepted too quickly. There was no plot that showed how she changed from being poor to rich other than she suddenly could dance and dress like wealthy people do. Sam is a basic historical man who is against marriage. The other characters were just there. They had one job and they did it and beyond that, they were not enjoyable enough to redeem the others.

The plot…. Absolutely not. It is basically Bridgeton season 1 (I didn’t read the books). Fatherless and responsible rich girl meets fatherless and emotionless rich boy and they long for each other and get together only because of a compromising situation. Boy is very against marriage because of the men in his life and girl does an unethical thing to force his hand (what August did was far from what Daphne did though don't worry) and they live happily ever after. Plus there’s the rich single aunt and coming out season and the show and this book are exactly the same. That is it.

I wanted to read the second book because surely it wasn't unoriginal either, right? Wrong, apparently the plot is rich boy dates rich girl but her sister is the one who he really loves aka Bridgerton season 2. Of course Bridgerton does not own the rights to these tropes, but this book was just too similar for me to enjoy it.
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