As it turns out, a London Season is the worst place to find love.
Eliza Mulgrave never expected to make her bows to society. Yet here she is, dancing at Almacks and riding through Hyde Park. It would be perfectly delightful if it weren’t for the whispers and scornful glances. She certainly never sought to quit her place in society as a tradesman’s daughter. At least then she had known who she was and how to act; now, she’s completely lost.
Adam Lambert has been raised to be a viscount and though the time has come sooner than expected he is confident stepping into this new life. Until he meets his Father’s best kept secret—a little girl. And now she’s Adam’s responsibility. Surely someone ought to have told him about her before now.
After stumbling through an initial meeting, Adam and Eliza both find in the other what they most need this Season—a sincere friend. But society is not often willing to grant two people room to learn for themselves who to be, or who to love.
As the first stand-alone novel in a new series by author Laura Rollins, The Audacious Miss Eliza begins the Daughters of Courage series. This charming story is a light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era (think: a clean Bridgerton).
Some books have been previously published as L.G. Rollins
Laura Rollins has always loved a heart-melting happily ever after. It didn’t matter if the story took place in Regency England, or in a cobbler’s shop, if there was a sweet romance, she would read it. Life has given her many of her own adventures. Currently she lives in the Rocky Mountains with her best-friend, who is also her husband, and their four beautiful children. She still loves to read books and more books; her favorite types of music are classical, Broadway, and country; she loves hiking in the mountains near her home; and she’s been known to debate with her oldest son about whether Infinity is better categorized as a number or an idea.
3 stars ⭐️ (Clean regency book, no language or sexual innuendoes)
It was kind of fun to see her dad’s point of view in the prologue? I also liked seeing Eliza and her sisters suddenly thrown into the ton and all the balls and society things because typically my regency books have the girls who have grown up in that life.
He fell first~! (I hope you read that in a singsong voice because that was completely how I intended it.)
This was really sweet—besides all the meanies who were rude to Eliza because of her basically being new to society and Augusta started to make my eye twitch—but else wise it was a sweet romance.
The third-act whatever-that-was was my least favorite thing in this book. I was annoyed, I’ll admit about how things went down. I even exclaimed “WHAT?!” at a certain point because of his stupidity. Again, I’d like to mention that my eye was twitching in an unladylike fashion. Mainly because of Augusta. Thankfully it’s handled somewhat quickly but I was ready to push her into a lake. That last twenty percent was a bit stressful.
Overall this was cute and used regency words and phrases that I don’t see often. That last quarter nearly ruined the book for me, but it ended well enough.
Main Content: No actual faith content but a couple mentions of praying (not said towards who) and being blessed; A mention of a vicar saying that “the angels make note of every good deed done and that the doers never go unblessed for long.”.
Adam drinks at a society club (he sips it but after having a revelation, it’s like he drunk several glasses of brandy); Different society members look down at Eliza and her family (and others below them) & make snide comments towards, about, and in-front of them.
The prologue starts with Eliza and her father coming across a woman being robbed by highway men & him helping her (he shoots two of the men and knocks the other one unconscious); Mentions of this event, the possibility of someone being killed, & those thieves throughout the book (it’s discussed somewhat often because of the events that happened after); Mentions of deaths & grief (including a husband for his wife and it appearing like he never got over her & the death of Eliza’s mother who was sick); Mentions of alcohol & drinking; Mentions of gossip & rumors; A few mentions of wars, fighting, & deaths; A few mentions of lies & lying; A couple mentions of a prison.
Different phrases like ‘heavens/good heavens’, ‘heaven help him’, ‘for heaven’s sake’, ‘the devil’ (could be replaced with hell or stronger), and ‘devil take it all’; Regency phrase/words like ‘gads’, ‘lud’, ‘blast/blasted’, ‘why/where the blazes’, ‘hang it all’, ‘botheration’, and ‘blue-deviled’ are said up to 5-8 times each.
Adam’s father sent him away in his grief and Adam rarely ever saw him (this leading to Adam not feeling like he knew his father); Eliza has a good relationship with her father, but because he doesn’t do well with emotions, she doesn’t share everything with him for fear of him calling her emotions ridiculous or nonsense.
Two kisses lasting a couple of sentences; Staring at lips & wanting to kiss and embrace (up to a few sentences); Touches, Hand holding, Warmth, Nearness, Tension, Butterflies, & Noticing (including curves, barely-above-not-detailed/a couple of sentences); Remembering touches & warmth (a couple sentences); Blushes; Adam wonders if his sudden new ward is actually his half-sister and if his father had a mistress (*Spoiler* ); Mentions of blushes, flirting, & jealousy; A mention of crass calls following a woman.
This is a cute, clean Regency romance featuring two sisters, a cousin, and their father—a tradesman who is elevated to knighthood after rescuing Lady Blackmore from highwaymen. Sir Mulgrave takes the girls to London for their first season (under the tutelage of Lady Blackmore) with hopes of finding suitable husbands to match their new status. Unfortunately, they find high society not as accepting as Lady Blackmore. Eliza, the eldest daughter, is continually trying (and failing) to be something she’s not just to please society. She makes two real friends: Lady Augusta, also in her first season, and Lord Lambert. Lambert has newly inherited his title and house in London as well as a young ward—a six year old named Kitty (she is adorable and a great addition to the story). Lambert is also struggling to find his place. He was raised by his aunt after his mother’s death, and was not well acquainted with his father. Eliza and Lambert have the equivalent of a Regency meet-cute, and are consistently together at social events. The course of true love does not run smooth, but there is a happy ending. It’s also set up nicely for book two and I look forward to reading more. I recommend this to fans of sweet, Regency romance.
I received an eARC copy to review. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.
Laura Rollins is a new-to-me author, and The Audacious Miss Eliza was a pleasure to read. This sweet, romantic story features two rather reserved leads that often feel a bit out of their element. Eliza, more so because she never expected to come out in London society. Adam knew he would one day take on the mantle of viscount, but didn't think it would be quite so soon. To make matters more complicated, Adam discovers that his father had a ward, a little girl, and her origin is a mystery he's not sure he wants solved. For her part, Eliza finds herself struggling through the overwhelming London Season as the daughter of a former tradesman.
Eliza and Adam have a quiet chemistry, and although it is a bit subdued as they bend to society's whims, there are some swoony lines that I quite enjoyed. Lady Blackmore is my favorite secondary character, and while I didn't connect greatly with Rachel or Dinah, I'm looking forward to their own stories to get to know them more.
Fans of clean Regency romances will find a gem here, and a heartfelt happily ever after. I look forward to The Determined Miss Rachel, and happily for me, it releases next month.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel, and a positive review was not required. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.
The Audacious Miss Eliza by Laura Rollins commences the Daughters of Courage series, introducing several women whose stories are to come, but focusing on Miss Eliza Mulgrave and her relationships. The intriguing sisterly dynamic between Eliza, Dinah (her sister), and Rachel (her cousin) flowed throughout the novel. Furthermore, the novel explored female friendship bonds as Eliza and Augusta end up in a love triangle with Lord Lambert.
Speaking of Lord Lambert, I found myself wanting more interaction between Eliza and Lord Lambert at the start of the book. However, as their friendship budded into romance, my interest increased and, by the middle, I was absorbed into the story. The romantic tension heightened once Lambert determined to win Eliza and I thoroughly enjoyed the moves he made in those romantic moments.
The Audacious Miss Eliza by Laura Rollins is a light, Regency-era romance with themes about being true to yourself and the importance of relationships. Readers who enjoy clean, historical reads that entertain while staying light will likely enjoy this novel. 3.5 Stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I was provided a copy of this book by the author or publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.
I read this a couple of weeks ago and decided to sit on it for a bit before writing my review. My thoughts have not necessarily changed, but I think I may be able to do it better justice with the break between reading/reviewing. I am by no means a history buff, but I do read a lot of regency fiction and studied history in college. I know I tend to be one of those readers that struggles to disregard historical inaccuracies. Unfortunately because I stew on these, I tend to focus on them. This on top of one of my least favorite plot devices made this book a more difficult read for me. I can definitely say it's a "me thing" and a lot of readers wouldn't have the same experience. Outside of those things, I do believe that this book is very sweet and thoughtful. Eliza's father's courage and sacrifices paved the way to make better lives for the three girls. Even though he is a minor character, I appreciate him most. Her sister and cousin are set up to have their own stories for the next books and I'm interested to see how they get their own HEA. Thank you to the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
normally i can't get enough of these books but eliza doesn't really have a strong character and neither does adam. the most compelling character is augusta and she's apparently the rival
#BookReview: THE AUDACIOUS MISS ELIZA by Laura Rollins
Do you like the book cover? I do. The first book in the Daughters of Courage series is a sweet regency romance. Their ordinary life took a turn when Mr. Mulgrave saved Lady Blackmore’s life. Eliza, Rachel and Dinah went to London for their first Season. I agree with Eliza that it feels constrained to try to conform with society’s standards. I applaud her courageous act in speaking her mind to help others. The pacing is a bit slow but I do enjoy the witty dialogues.
“Having the audacity to be yourself, no matter who else is around, is one of the reasons you have become dear to me.” I find these words by Adam to Eliza sweet.
If you like clean romance with likeable characters, this one's for you. I wish the conversations with Miss Kitty were longer and more frequent. The epilogue is a good one and makes me look forward to Rachel’s story. 3.8 stars
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
4.25⭐ The Audacious Miss Eliza by Laura Rollins brought *such* a big smile to my face! What a treat. I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!!! Not only did I enjoy the story, but I also enjoyed all the time period references that made it a fun learning experience as well. I also loved Eliza's personality and saw a lot of myself in her - I'm pretty quiet and easygoing until I see something that is wrong and then umm...I'm not 😂🙈 I think *a lot* of readers will fall in love with this story.
This was a wonderful Regency read! I love this genre and Laura Rollins is one of my favorite authors! This book is the start to a new series titled "Daughters of Courage" which refers to the daughters of Mr. Mulgrave, who practically overnight became Sir Mulgrave, "knighted" after saving a noblewoman from three highwaymen that assault her in the road. In her deep gratitude, Lady Blackmoore, aside from getting him his title as a Knight, decides to take in her three daughters: Eliza, the eldest, Rachel (her niece, whom he practically adopted since her father passed away), and Dinah, and offer them a chance of enjoying their Seasons in London so they can find a suitable match for marriage. Eliza has always felt responsible for her sisters, and is in no mood for hunting for a husband. Having always lived a simple but decent life in the country with her father, the change to adjusting to London's critical and rigorous society, the"ton", Eliza feels that she will never belong. That is, until she befriends Lady Augusta, and Lord Adam Lambert, who seem to like her for who she is, not who she should be. Viscount Adam Lambert has unexpectedly arrived as the new Lord of his Manor, after his father's passing. The father he barely knew, as he was raised by his aunt when his father became a widow. To his surprise, he finds his father left him in charge of his ward, a six year old precocious girl named Kitty. Afraid to ask about Kitty's origin, and embarrass himself with the staff because of ignoring such a delicate matter from his father, he acknowledges and takes on the responsibility of his new charge, not without some insecurity and fear. He knows he must soon choose a suitable wife, and Lady Augusta Honefield seems the perfect match as she already has befriended Kitty, and comes from a well connected family. But it is sweet, reserved and forthright Eliza who really catches his eye, but she has no title or wealth. Can he overcome society's rules and let his heart dictate over what others expect from him? Can he conquer Eliza's heart and convince her that position or title doesn't matter to the heart and true love? This was a very sweet story I totally enjoyed! The characters were so relatable, each with their own insecurities and fears, but strong-minded for defending and pursuing what is right. Both had big hearts and a strong sense of responsibility. Eliza was so loyal and caring of her sisters, I loved that bond! Adam was a swooning hero, with a heart of gold, compassionate and a true gentleman. I loved that he dressed in an eccentric way and Eliza didn't mind at all. They were like kindred souls and made the perfect match, that's why they felt so at ease with each other. I also loved that the story is inspirational. The sense of family, the value of what's important, the kindness over formalities or appearance were strong in this story! I loved secondary characters like strong-minded Mrs. Blackmoore and Miss Kitty! So sweet! I definitely recommend it! I can't wait for the author to release Rachel and Dinah's story! Each sister so different yet there's that unbreakable bond between them that make them watch out for each other. There was also witty banter and humor which I love in a story! A must read!
This romance is charming and delightful. A quick read, you will find yourself loving the characters and quickly drawn in to the story. I found I couldn’t put it down for the final half of the book as I just had to know how things would work out for Eliza. The ending is quite perfect and the proposal scene might be one of my favorites.
Eliza is a character easy to love and love her I did. She is the kind of person I would have hoped to be had I been in a similar situation. She is loyal and kind and stands up for what is right, even when it is hard. I also liked her fierce love for her sisters. I loved that she learned to stand up for herself and be herself, even in the face of social ridicule and rejection (which, by the way, that society reminds me just a tad too much of middle school backbiting and gossip and it’s kind of ridiculous).
Adam is a wonderful hero. So gentle and kind and very different from so many other men of the time. I loved that he was okay with being different and felt confident in his opinions of being kind toward others, even if they were different.
I love Lady Blackmore and Sir Mulgrave. Both fantastic characters. Augusta is a lovely friend to Eliza though I admit I was angry with her for a minute there. I think I’d like Rachel and Dinah but I feel like we didn’t get to know them super well. I didn’t like Mr Collin and Aunt Priscilla kind of bothers me, but I loved Reid, Miss Notely, and Miss Kitty.
This is the first book I’ve had the pleasure of reading written by Laura Rollins but I’m sure I’ll look for more in the future.
Note: contains highwaymen, shooting guns, mention of blood and blunt force with a gun. All given only the briefest mention and in no way graphic or disturbing. Mostly, this is just a sweet, delightful romance.
**I received an advanced copy of this book with the option to review and post my honest thoughts about it, which I gladly share above.
Eliza Mulgrave had a season in London after her father saved a Lady of wealth and was knighted for his bravery. She was a really a country girl at heart and had a hard time fitting in to the London society. She just wanted the season to be over so she could move on with her life. The problem was she met a man who made her heart race. He called her "Audacious" but she was willing to settle for less than she deserved to protect a friend.
Lord Adam Lambert became a viscount upon his father's death. Now, he had come to London to take his rightful place in society, along with his aunt and cousins. He hadn't really known his father since he was sent away after his mother's death to live with his aunt. He didn't know the kind of man his father had been. But, he now had to step into the role and play the part. There was no woman that made him want to settle down until he met Miss Eliza. Then his heart wouldn't be still.
This was a beautiful story with a happy ending. I loved the interactions between Adam and Eliza and the way they were willing to sacrifice for the happiness of others even if that is not what they wanted. I was so glad there was a happy ending, though, for all. I can't wait to read Rachel's story next.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
4.5 stars this was an upbeat and cute Regency romance as well as a wonderful start to a new series that I am super excited about. When Eliza Mulgrave's father is knighted, the family's station in society is suddenly raised resulting in a London season for Eliza and her sisters. Feeling like a fish out of water, Eliza is just trying to adjust and find her new place in society which I thought the author did an excellent job in showing that inner struggle for her and her family. Adam has always been raised to become a viscount, but finds himself unready to take on his new role. When the two meet, they find in each other a true friend and I loved watching that friendship develop into something more. I loved the way Adam was kind and open with everyone. There were some really cute moments between the two and I just really enjoyed all of the characters overall. I am excited by the epilogue and can't wait to see whose story comes next. I did wish for just a little bit more between Eliza and Adam at the very end, but hopefully they will have cameos in the other books. I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is a sweet Regency romance and one I recommend.
Silly and quite nonsensical (to borrow a key character's favorite word). The "audacious" heroine wasn't, except just once. Her lamentable hero couldn't seem to get past simple obstacles of life ("Oh, my father left me a surprising ward. Instead of asking people who might know, like I don't know, the butler and the housekeeper maybe, I speculate in my mind about who my father might have bedded.") There isn't much of a story here, it limps along through a rather dull narration of repeated sessions and discussions of "How harsh and critical Society is!", without much happening, other than a lot of agonized introspection, of course.
Oh, and the whole rescue scene at the beginning that kicks off the life changes in the family of interest is also quite nonsensical. Somehow this man has a two-shot rifle in the early 1800s, carries it fully loaded, and uses it to good effect, shooting accurately both times. Wowzer.
(Did Wellington know about this gunsmith? This gun might have changed history! Too bad the British military had to make do with the Baker rifle, which could only shoot one bullet before elaborate reloading. The first double-barrelled guns were made in the 1830s. Five minutes of research reveals this fact.)
I was given an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When a widowed man steps in to rescue a damsel in distress, he unknowingly brings good fortune on his family. The damsel just so happens to be wealthy and takes interest in his three daughters, giving the man a title, wealth, and the means of finding them all suitable husbands in exchange for saving her life.
Eliza, the eldest of the three girls, doesn’t like the change and is most resistant to this new life of luxury. No matter how thrilling the experiences, she can’t help but feel different, like she doesn’t fit in.
But when she meets the equally as different Adam Lambert, her world begins to turn upside down. He has a title, offers her friendship, and maybe something more?
This story explores the gap found between social classes in a beautiful way. I think my most favorite part about this book is that no one is really “the bad guy” except for what one might call high society. It made most of the characters rather likable, to some degree.
I really enjoyed this novel, and though I did find it a tad predictable in places, it was still refreshing. Sweet, clean, and fun!
What an absolutely delightful story! Eliza has grown up happy and confident as the daughter of a tradesman, but when her father is knighted and decides to take her to London for her one and only season, she is not sure it is the good fortune everyone keeps telling her it is.
This book pulled me from the beginning and I was completely caught up in the storyline. At one point I was so surprised at a plot twist, I had to put the book down and walk away for a minute but couldn’t stay away too long as I just had to know how things were going to end. I loved Eliza’s unique personality and her ability to see through the shallow and judgmental factions of society. I adore Lady Blackmore and I wish I had her in my life! The romance is super sweet and swoony and I loved the theme of courage woven throughout the book.
I enjoyed getting to know Rachel and Dinah and cannot wait to read their stories! 5 stars for this wonderful regency romance!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but a positive review was not required
You guys. This book is oh so good!! It had me at the edge of my seat, giddy, and excited to see what would happen next. There were seriously times I found myself just smiling while I was reading because of how many cute scenes there were. 😊 Eliza is just so darn nice and Adam is that perfectly quirky guy who’s handsome and doesn’t even have to try. Plus, it’s adorable how he doesn’t care about fashion and wears the most absurd color combinations.
I think what got me was how sweet Adam and Eliza are. That genuine attraction where you see beyond the physical appearances and can be perfectly comfortable with one another. Adam sees Eliza for her good heart and upfront nature. I love that he can see what everyone else is apparently blind to. It was fun and enticing. And now, I am anxiously waiting for Rachel’s story!
One day, Eliza Mulgrave 's father performs a heroic deed and is rewarded for his efforts as he rises in society. He takes his daughters for a London season hoping to find them good husbands. It proves to be way more difficult than Eliza expected to try to blend into a society that she never expected to be a part of. With the friendship of Lady Blackmore and Lord Lambert, she is able to get through these difficult times and maybe come away with love in the end.
The storyline pulled at me to continue reading well past my bedtime. I loved how Eliza and Adam became friends and developed stronger feelings as time went on. They both grew into roles they weren't fully prepared for with the help of each other.
I have loved all books by Laura Rollins (L. G. Rollins) and would highly recommend all of them if you love clean regency romance.
Whilst on the whole I liked the story, reading it became increasingly frustrating and irritating. There were too many modern phrases, and the author wrote very much in her own vernacular style. It was jarring. Mistakes were the result of either lack of research, lack of knowledge, or sloppy writing. For example, Collins joined the Royal Navy so he is NOT a soldier. Also, a large dinner party Eliza would not have been left wondering who would partner her into the dining room. Guests would walk in by rank, with the host taking in the highest ranking female present, and so on down the social scale. As for the ridiculously insane engagement farrago and the party…..grrrrr!! The basic story is enjoyable, if you can get past the writing & mistakes, read.
It’s probably just me but I didn’t enjoy reading this story. The characters were juvenile and neither of them have a strong personality . I like characters who come across intelligent and resolute. The way they acted was strange to me. It just grated on me. The story is nice and clean and I hope the next one is better. I’ll probably buy it later. I do like other books by this author.
A sweet romance from Laura Rollins! The Audacious Miss Eliza is a quick, enjoyable read. Though I had a bit of a hard time connecting with some of the characters, I appreciated the book’s wittiness.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I love Eliza. She is a very admirable character, so admirable that she is willing to sacrifice her happiness for a friend. I loved that she was able to stand up to pompous idiots for a governess put in a hard position. She is what you would hope to find in all ranks of society.
This book was fun to read. I am looking forward to the rest of the series.
This is a sweet and clean story. Miss Eliza is too giving and willing to sacrifice when it comes to others, but through her experiences she learns to also stand up for herself.
“No matter who’s present, no matter what anyone else will think, no matter what’s happening, I hope you can be you, be brave enough to stay you, regardless.”
Dear Eliza has grown up happy and confident as the daughter of a tradesman, but when her father is knighted and decides to take her to London for her one and only season, she really is not sure it is the good fortune everyone keeps telling her it is. As it turns out, a London Season is the worst place to find love. It really would be perfectly delightful if it weren’t for the whispers and scornful glances.
Genuine Adam Lambert has been raised to be a viscount, and though the time has come much sooner than expected he is confident stepping into this new life. That is until, he meets his Father’s best kept secret—a little girl. And now she’s Adam’s great responsibility.
Surely someone ought to have told him about her before now. After stumbling through an initial meeting, Adam and Eliza both find in the other what they most need this Season, a sincere true friend.
However, society is not often willing to grant two lovely people inside and out room to learn for themselves who to be, or who to love…
“I hope that,you have the audacity to be yourself, no matter who else is around, is one of the reasons you have become so dear to me.”
The Audacious Miss Eliza begins the Daughters of Courage series and can be read as a stand alone. This charming story is a light-hearted, quick read, clean, and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. I loved the themes weaved through this story about being true to yourself, and the importance of lasting relationships. This dear story is worth reading.
“Didn’t I tell you?” he asked. I love you. I love you ardently, I love you completely.” He took hold of her hands and pulled her close to him. I love you wildly and madly.”
“How perfect. I love you that way, too.”
#theaudaciousmisseliza #laurarollins
I've been meaning to tell you that everything in my wardrobe looks better when you're with me."
Eliza Mulgrave and her father had gone to town and left the inn at first light. He then proceeded to stop three highwaymen from robbing and killing a marchioness. She wanted to do something special for him but he didn't need anything but to get back to his daughter hiding in the forest and getting home to the other two. So she decided to help him give his daughters a season. Her dad was knighted, which gave him more status and a step up in the ton. He worked for a living, just a simple and kind man. Adam was no longer Lord Robins, now he was Viscount Lambert and his dad had suddenly died. He actually did not know his dad, they didn't interact. He didn't remember the townhouse either. He was sent to his aunts when his mother died. He also had a ward, boy, did that surprise him. He had never been told. She was about six and the cutest little thing. Eliza had always taken care of her sister and her cousin, even after her dad got them a governess. She was very kind and loving. She would give up something she wanted, to someone in need, especially her family or even friends. When they got to London they felt so out of place. She was afraid to make a mistake and be ridiculed by the ton. The story told of Eliza and Adam. They both felt out of place and they struggled. It was an exciting tale. It was so hard for Eliza, she knew she did not have what the ton felt was needed. For some reason, she had trouble making friends. The characters were marvelous. It was so sweet reading him trying to give her encouragement and support her. Their best friend was Lady Augusta and they were always seen together. I loved the book and all the things that happened during their season. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. I received this ARC from
I'm super stoked that I was about to read the ARC of The Audacious Miss Eliza by Laura Rollins! It's looking so pretty on my favorites shelf! The beginning threw me off at first as it is dad's POV... which I don't think I've ever read before! It added so much to the story and set up the book so fantastically (word, prob not but I like it). Dad saves Lady Blackmoore's life from highwaymen and it changes his daughters lives forever. I immediately loved Eliza's family and Miss Kitty. Laura Rollins created such lovable characters that make you feel settled and at home. I love how real and down to earth Eliza is. Adam also is incredible because he encourages her to be herself despite what society thinks and acts like. There were a few of those society members I wanted Eliza to punch in the face... or do it myself for her! Conversations are so lively and fun... cracking me up multiple times. The romance is beautiful. A few side characters I loved were Lady Blackmoore, Miss Kitty, and Augusta. Lady Blackmoore is such a treat and I loved how she just took the family in as her own... secretly hoping down the line she marries dad! Miss Kitty is such a cute and crazy kid that people fall in love with immediately. Finally Augusta, a good friend in the midst of the crazy society that helps Eliza. Their friendship is beautiful and I hope she gets her own book sometime! This was the first book I've read by Laura Rollins and I will be seeking out all her other books now!!!
The Audacious Miss Eliza by Laura Rollins, book 1 in The Daughters of Courage series:
“I’d even go so far as to call it . . . audacious.” His gaze flicked down to her lips. Oh, heavens. “I don’t think anyone has ever accused me of being audacious before.”
I’ve been so excited to start this series since reading the Prequel novella, The Dauntless Lady Susan. It’s a favorite. Well after a year of being on my tbr I finally read The Audacious Miss Eliza, and I really enjoyed it! It has the cutest meet cute and I adored the proposal scene!
Adam is the sweetest cinnamon roll hero with a quirky sense of style which I loved. Eliza is so selfless and caring and can be a bit audacious at times. I loved how her audacity was a theme throughout the story. Both characters are trying to find their place in the world and when they stumble upon each other a wonderful story begins!
Read for: 🤍fun story line 🤍Family 🤍a spirited little girl 🤍little bit of a mystery 🤍Different social classes 🤍forbidden romance/friends to more 🤍shocking plot twist 🤍sweet happily ever after 🤍character growth
My favorite part of this book was the ‘love you as you are’ trope and watching Eliza grow throughout the story. I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters in this book, and I’m looking forward to reading the other stories in this series! If you enjoy sweet historical romance I think you’ll enjoy this book too.
Content: very brief mild violence, very briefly mentions a mistress
I enjoyed this story, and read the whole book, but I just think it wasn't for me. I read the sinopsis of the thrid book of this series, and I decided to start with the first one, and go in order. And this one I find it funny to read a book whose main character is named like me. :D
It is a very sweet romance story, it has some great elements, and for me it was a nice reading when I wanted to take a break from other books.
I want to talk about the strong points and the not so much, So there will be some spoilers ahead. Just letting you know.
I think I liked more the secondary characters than the main ones. I really liked the servants, and how they are visible in this story unlike in others. I also liked lady Blackmore and the father, whose name I can't remember now.
As for audacious, I don't think Eliza was that adaciuos, and I read the definition of the word, and honestly she didn't take surprisingly bold risks. She was outspoken at times. On the other hand, Adam, the ML, I thing he is the one who I think was more aduacious, although then when both of them needed to be, they just weren't.
As something positive about Eliza, I would say that she was the only one who contradicted Miss Kitty, and acted like an adult around her. And I also enjoyed a lot the conversation between Adam and Eliza's father.
Something that bothered me about Adam, is that he never stood up for Eliza in public, he would tell her later, "oh, don't mind what they are saying", but he wouldn't tell them, in public how wrong they were about her.
I didn't mind Augusta, Eliza and Adam's best friend, at first at least. At the end of the book I didn't liked her that much. But I think it was more because of the type of conflict. And I think that was my biggest problem with the book, there isn't much conflict. It starts very well, but I wished I saw more tension between the characters, and more growth.
Overall, I think it was a good novel, and I still want to read the next novels in the series, but I think I just didn't find the main characters that interesting. But I don't regret reading the story. I think the message behind it is very sweet, how to be true to yourself, speak out for you and others, and put your happines above what others might think.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.