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Lord Somerton's Heir
First love left them desolate ... can a new love heal their wounds? A tale of second chance love in aristocratic Regency England, for lovers of all things Bridgerton.
Sebastian Alder's sudden elevation from penniless army captain to Viscount Somerton is the stuff of fairy tales, but the cold reality of an inherited estate in wretched condition leaves him little time for fantasy, and the memory of his wife's brutal death haunts his every moment. When he learns of the mysterious circumstances of his cousin's demise, he must also look for a potential murderer ... surely not Isabel, his cousin's ladylike widow?
Isabel, Lady Somerton, is desperate to bury the memory of her unhappy marriage by founding the charity school she has always dreamed of. Her hopes are shattered from beyond the grave when she is left not only penniless but once more bound to the whims of a Somerton ... although perhaps the new Lord Somerton is a man she can trust ... or even care for?
Suspicion could tear them apart ... honesty and courage may pull them together.
Sebastian Alder's sudden elevation from penniless army captain to Viscount Somerton is the stuff of fairy tales, but the cold reality of an inherited estate in wretched condition leaves him little time for fantasy, and the memory of his wife's brutal death haunts his every moment. When he learns of the mysterious circumstances of his cousin's demise, he must also look for a potential murderer ... surely not Isabel, his cousin's ladylike widow?
Isabel, Lady Somerton, is desperate to bury the memory of her unhappy marriage by founding the charity school she has always dreamed of. Her hopes are shattered from beyond the grave when she is left not only penniless but once more bound to the whims of a Somerton ... although perhaps the new Lord Somerton is a man she can trust ... or even care for?
Suspicion could tear them apart ... honesty and courage may pull them together.
416 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2014
124 people are currently reading
268 people want to read
About the author
Alison Stuart
25 books366 followersMystery, history, romance and more…
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
Alison Stuart writes historical romances and short stories set in England and Australia and across different periods of history. She is best known for THE POSTMISTRESS and THE GOLDMINER'S SISTER, stories set in the Victorian goldfields in the 1870s.
She also writes historical mysteries as A.M. Stuart and her popular Harriet Gordon mystery series is set in Singapore in 1910.
She lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and a geriatric cat. In a past life Alison worked as a lawyer across a variety of disciplines including the military and emergency services. She has lived in Africa and Singapore and, when circumstances permit, travels extensively - all for research of course!
(This writer is NOT the Alison Stuart who also writes as Kate Tremayne and authored Fateful Shadows, Sin No More, Barefoot Angel, Innocence Betrayed or Loyalty Defiled.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
October 4, 2025
I every much enjoyed this kindle unlimited book, and it does remind me a bit of an old school historical romance with a mystery woven throughout. Well written characters and historical details. The book is a slow burn romance with a couple of very mild spicy scenes. I did guess some of the mystery BUT there are some twists that I did not see coming. I liked that were discussions of forgiveness and being able to move on from trauma. Nice to have someone raised by a cleric who is not cynical and was a military leader. I read the book over 2 days and would recommend it.
January 11, 2016
Alison Stuart is well on her way to becoming one of my favourite authors! She had me with this book from page one as soon as I realised it was set in the Regency period. I seriously love Georgette Heyer and this read just like one of her books (except for the scene where they go a little further than kissing and we know Miss Heyer's characters never went further than kissing). Sebastian and Isobel made a lovely couple, the goodies were all very good, the baddies were very bad and got their just desserts . All very satisfying and written in a very readable style. A real pleasure to read.
June 14, 2014
When Lady Isabel Somerton was summonsed with the dreadful news that her husband was dead, killed when thrown from his horse, her thoughts were in turmoil. What was she to do now that she was a widow? Learning of a cousin to her late husband, she set about finding him – near death in a hospital from wounds he received in the battle of Waterloo, she had him removed and placed where he would be cared for in a more suitable and caring manner. As the weeks passed, Sebastian Alder came to realize that Isabel had saved his life, and also that his life had taken an unexpected turn – it seemed he was now heir to Brantstone Hall and all that it encompassed. Unable to believe his good fortune, he was further astounded to find he had a family he knew nothing about. His sister Connie and brother Matt had been his only family for as long as he could remember…
But as Sebastian was to discover, the estate he had inherited had many debts – his cousin, the previous Lord Somerton, had deep, dark secrets and slowly but surely these were coming to the surface. With the help of the man who had controlled the finances and been by the original Lord Somerton’s side, Sebastian was coming to a realization that he needed to do something, and do it quickly. Those past secrets were beginning to unravel – there was danger – someone didn’t want the past uncovered; was there a murderer out there who wouldn’t hesitate to strike again?
As Sebastian found himself moving from gratitude and friendship with Isabel to something he hadn’t let himself feel in many years, he knew he had to tread carefully. And Isabel knew Sebastian was a completely different person to the man her husband had been – could she trust this man with her feelings and her future?
I absolutely loved this historical fiction novel by Aussie author Alison Stuart. She is an accomplished writer, one I have read before and have no hesitation in reading again. Highly recommended.
But as Sebastian was to discover, the estate he had inherited had many debts – his cousin, the previous Lord Somerton, had deep, dark secrets and slowly but surely these were coming to the surface. With the help of the man who had controlled the finances and been by the original Lord Somerton’s side, Sebastian was coming to a realization that he needed to do something, and do it quickly. Those past secrets were beginning to unravel – there was danger – someone didn’t want the past uncovered; was there a murderer out there who wouldn’t hesitate to strike again?
As Sebastian found himself moving from gratitude and friendship with Isabel to something he hadn’t let himself feel in many years, he knew he had to tread carefully. And Isabel knew Sebastian was a completely different person to the man her husband had been – could she trust this man with her feelings and her future?
I absolutely loved this historical fiction novel by Aussie author Alison Stuart. She is an accomplished writer, one I have read before and have no hesitation in reading again. Highly recommended.
January 18, 2016
There is nothing I enjoy more than a murder mystery encased in a historical backdrop and this Regency period drama is delightful. What more could you need for the perfect time out from this world than a handsome hero wounded at Waterloo waking in hospital to discover he is the heir to the recently deceased Lord Somerton, a beautiful mourning widow, an evil blackmailer, a murder or two, a kidnapping and a mad chase across the countryside with a little romance thrown in for good measure? Alison Stuart delivers all this and more. With a delightful cast of extras, she brings to life the times of Regency England with its manners of polite society, lavish balls and lifestyle but also the extreme poverty of the lower classes and the struggle of the landed gentry to keep up with the costs of running a large estate. Most enjoyable!
December 19, 2023
Excellent tale of a wounded Waterloo officer who finds out he’s inherited a viscounty.
There’s mystery and murder involved, and the lovely Dowager Viscountess. Read this following Alison Stuart’s offer of the free introduction, Sebastian’s Waterloo.
There’s mystery and murder involved, and the lovely Dowager Viscountess. Read this following Alison Stuart’s offer of the free introduction, Sebastian’s Waterloo.
May 1, 2014
You can read my other reviews at My Written Romance.
I was provided with an ARC of this book by Escape Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I remember, while reading another of Alison Stuart’s books earlier this year, being struck by how easy it was to imagine the words on the page leaping out at you like images on a movie screen.
When I opened Lord Somerton’s Heir on my Kindle and saw this in the opening paragraph, I knew that this would be another absorbing read:
Fantastic opening few lines, hey? It’s not just the detail that I enjoyed about Lord Somerton’s Heir. The emotion, the suspense and the connection between Isabel & Sebastian all joined it and came together to create a truly enjoyable story.
Isabel, Lady Somerton, is another wonderfully strong Stuart heroine – giving of herself and her time, and wanting to make the best of where she has landed in life. I loved that despite the sadness of her past and potential future roadblocks, she doesn’t lose sight of what she wants to achieve. Sebastian’s life is thrown into upheaval, all of a sudden transformed from the soldier son of a small town minister to a position high in Regency society. I loved his sense of honour, and that he sought to maintain the relationships he had with his siblings.
These two were so beautifully suited, and throughout the bumps and twists of the story, I often found myself willing them along to their richly-deserved happy ending.
Another highlight for me with Lord Somerton’s Heir were the characters on the periphery. They helped to create a vivid and strong story. With regard to the suspense element of the story, this was so very well done. There were a few moments where I thought I had things figured out, but then suddenly suspicion would be directed elsewhere.
As I understand, the move to Regency romantic suspense is a new one for Ms Stuart – and I have to say, it is an excellent move on her part. I’m very much looking forward to more.
I was provided with an ARC of this book by Escape Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I remember, while reading another of Alison Stuart’s books earlier this year, being struck by how easy it was to imagine the words on the page leaping out at you like images on a movie screen.
When I opened Lord Somerton’s Heir on my Kindle and saw this in the opening paragraph, I knew that this would be another absorbing read:
In the light of the lanterns held up by the stablehands, the glossy hide of the great, black horse reflected fire. The animal shivered, breaking the fire into golden sparks. …
Fantastic opening few lines, hey? It’s not just the detail that I enjoyed about Lord Somerton’s Heir. The emotion, the suspense and the connection between Isabel & Sebastian all joined it and came together to create a truly enjoyable story.
Isabel, Lady Somerton, is another wonderfully strong Stuart heroine – giving of herself and her time, and wanting to make the best of where she has landed in life. I loved that despite the sadness of her past and potential future roadblocks, she doesn’t lose sight of what she wants to achieve. Sebastian’s life is thrown into upheaval, all of a sudden transformed from the soldier son of a small town minister to a position high in Regency society. I loved his sense of honour, and that he sought to maintain the relationships he had with his siblings.
These two were so beautifully suited, and throughout the bumps and twists of the story, I often found myself willing them along to their richly-deserved happy ending.
Another highlight for me with Lord Somerton’s Heir were the characters on the periphery. They helped to create a vivid and strong story. With regard to the suspense element of the story, this was so very well done. There were a few moments where I thought I had things figured out, but then suddenly suspicion would be directed elsewhere.
As I understand, the move to Regency romantic suspense is a new one for Ms Stuart – and I have to say, it is an excellent move on her part. I’m very much looking forward to more.
April 13, 2014
I loved this story it is emotional and moving as Lady Somerton tries to locate the Heir to Somerton after the death of her husband Isabel has not had a great life in her marriage to Anthony and now she will be free to start her school. Sebastian Adler is a soldier from a little town when he is injured at Waterloo and found by Isabel and told he is now Lord Somerton many things change in his life. With blackmail murder secrets and a growing love between Isabel and Sebastian this story will have you falling into it Sebastian is such an honourable and caring man he has been through a lot in his army life and is also a widow losing his wife in a terrible way but can they make it to a HEA with suspicion and broken hearts and truths learned. The characters in this story are so strong and rich and they add a lot to the story. I thoroughly enjoyed this one from start to finish Sebastion is a hero to die for and Isabel is strong and caring thank you MS Stuart for hours of reading pleasure don't miss this one.
January 4, 2016
Lord Somerton's Heir is a distinctly deceitful historical romance piece. The splendor and opulence of the balls and propriety from the 1800s abounded and danced alluringly with the grit of wartime soldiers.
Sebastian Alder, a soldier, wounded in numerous ways, plays the male lead, alongside Isabel Somerton, the late Lord Somerton's widow.
There is a raft of supporting characters, ranging from Sebastian's siblings, to best friends and war-time buddies, to young stable hands. They create a delightful supporting cast to the romantic dance Isabel and Sebastian take together.
The plot progressed slowly, twists and turns abound, some obvious and others not. The mystery and intrigue within this tale was masterfully weaved into larger and smaller plot and character arcs, and added additional layers of complexity to an otherwise tried-and-true historical romance plot.
An enjoyable romp through the 1800s, Lord Somerton's Heir will take readers on just as much of a journey as Sebastian and Isabel take.
Sebastian Alder, a soldier, wounded in numerous ways, plays the male lead, alongside Isabel Somerton, the late Lord Somerton's widow.
There is a raft of supporting characters, ranging from Sebastian's siblings, to best friends and war-time buddies, to young stable hands. They create a delightful supporting cast to the romantic dance Isabel and Sebastian take together.
The plot progressed slowly, twists and turns abound, some obvious and others not. The mystery and intrigue within this tale was masterfully weaved into larger and smaller plot and character arcs, and added additional layers of complexity to an otherwise tried-and-true historical romance plot.
An enjoyable romp through the 1800s, Lord Somerton's Heir will take readers on just as much of a journey as Sebastian and Isabel take.
June 16, 2014
Lord Somerton's Heir by Alison Stuart is a 2014 Escape Publishing release. I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Sebastian goes through some pretty heavy duty life changes and events in a short period of time. First of all he is wounded in the war at Waterloo. He will most likely always walk with a limp. While burning with a fever, he is discovered by the Dowager Lady Somerton and from that moment on his life will never be the same.
Shocking revelations about his heritage will thrust Sebastian into the role of being the new Lord Somerton. He believes his fortune has changed but soon discovers things are not as they appear.
Isabel is still in mourning for her child who apparently passed away from SIDS. The death of her husband Anthony has given her the hope of freeing herself from the Somerton duties so she can open her own school for girls. So, finding Anthony's heir is a must. As soon as she finds Sebastian she takes him to his new home and begins to nurse him back to health. The sooner he heals and adjust to his new title and responsibilities, the sooner she can escape and begin her independent life.
Alas, things don't work out quite as planned for Sebastian or Isabel. It appears that Anthony squandered all of Isabel's money which ruins her plans for the school. To put the cherry on the cake it becomes evident that Anthony did not die from an accident after all. It seems he was murdered and Isabel is the only likely suspect.
This story got off to a really slow start for me. The first half of the book dragged along as Sebastian recovers from his wound, meets relatives he didn't know he had, and begins to realize the estate is in debt and he learns of Isabel's cold and loveless upbringing and he discerns her marriage to Anthony was one of duty and love was not a part of the partnership. It wasn't until nearly half way into the book the plot picked up steam. This is where the murder mystery really starts to become intriguing. Many stunning revelations will come to light as Isabel will learn things about Anthony she didn't know. While there is romance, I think the book was more along the lines of historical fiction/mystery. If you go into it knowing that upfront you will like this story a lot. If you are expecting a lot romantic angst and steamy sheet twisting, that doesn't happen in this one. In fact the romance was really low key. However, the mystery part of the story makes up for that and I was really into the second half of the book. There were lots of twist and turns in the murder plot and I also liked the super sweet and sentimental ending of the book. Overall this is good effort and the author shows a lot of promise. I 'm giving this on a 3.5 and rounding it up to four mainly because I love a good historical mystery.
Sebastian goes through some pretty heavy duty life changes and events in a short period of time. First of all he is wounded in the war at Waterloo. He will most likely always walk with a limp. While burning with a fever, he is discovered by the Dowager Lady Somerton and from that moment on his life will never be the same.
Shocking revelations about his heritage will thrust Sebastian into the role of being the new Lord Somerton. He believes his fortune has changed but soon discovers things are not as they appear.
Isabel is still in mourning for her child who apparently passed away from SIDS. The death of her husband Anthony has given her the hope of freeing herself from the Somerton duties so she can open her own school for girls. So, finding Anthony's heir is a must. As soon as she finds Sebastian she takes him to his new home and begins to nurse him back to health. The sooner he heals and adjust to his new title and responsibilities, the sooner she can escape and begin her independent life.
Alas, things don't work out quite as planned for Sebastian or Isabel. It appears that Anthony squandered all of Isabel's money which ruins her plans for the school. To put the cherry on the cake it becomes evident that Anthony did not die from an accident after all. It seems he was murdered and Isabel is the only likely suspect.
This story got off to a really slow start for me. The first half of the book dragged along as Sebastian recovers from his wound, meets relatives he didn't know he had, and begins to realize the estate is in debt and he learns of Isabel's cold and loveless upbringing and he discerns her marriage to Anthony was one of duty and love was not a part of the partnership. It wasn't until nearly half way into the book the plot picked up steam. This is where the murder mystery really starts to become intriguing. Many stunning revelations will come to light as Isabel will learn things about Anthony she didn't know. While there is romance, I think the book was more along the lines of historical fiction/mystery. If you go into it knowing that upfront you will like this story a lot. If you are expecting a lot romantic angst and steamy sheet twisting, that doesn't happen in this one. In fact the romance was really low key. However, the mystery part of the story makes up for that and I was really into the second half of the book. There were lots of twist and turns in the murder plot and I also liked the super sweet and sentimental ending of the book. Overall this is good effort and the author shows a lot of promise. I 'm giving this on a 3.5 and rounding it up to four mainly because I love a good historical mystery.
November 16, 2015
Whenever I pick up an Alison Stuart novel I know I am going to love her hero and admire her heroine, and this novel did not disappoint. In this, her latest work, the author moves into the Regency era where England is still reeling from the Napoleonic wars and so many men were irrevocably damaged by their experiences. Sebastian Alder is one of these, badly injured at Waterloo, with a tragic history, I fell for him the second he shrugged off Isabel, Lady Somerton’s shake of his shoulder and gruffly demanded who she was.
Sebastian is the unwitting, and at first unwilling heir to the Somerton estate, that of Isabel’s late husband. Sebastian has to break it to this self-contained woman reluctant to display any emotion, that her husband has left her penniless and him the master of a ruined estate.
Not a good start to a romance, but Miss Stuart’s Sebastian Alder is an absolute gem and a hero to fall for. Although Isabel is not strictly his responsibility, the valiant soldier cannot abandon her, nor the two cuckoos in the nest that come with Brantstone, his country estate.
When blackmail, murder and other dark secrets emerge and affect their present, the situation goes from bad to worse for Sebastian, the slightly naïve soldier, and Isabel, an emotionally damaged widow determined to walk away from a life that brought her only unhappiness.
A character driven story, this is a real page turner that delves into the darker areas of human nature and tests the mettle of the players. It may be a well-used formula, but an effective one which takes the reader on a roller coaster journey with a very satisfactory ending.
I look forward to more in the same genre from Alison Stuart.
Sebastian is the unwitting, and at first unwilling heir to the Somerton estate, that of Isabel’s late husband. Sebastian has to break it to this self-contained woman reluctant to display any emotion, that her husband has left her penniless and him the master of a ruined estate.
Not a good start to a romance, but Miss Stuart’s Sebastian Alder is an absolute gem and a hero to fall for. Although Isabel is not strictly his responsibility, the valiant soldier cannot abandon her, nor the two cuckoos in the nest that come with Brantstone, his country estate.
When blackmail, murder and other dark secrets emerge and affect their present, the situation goes from bad to worse for Sebastian, the slightly naïve soldier, and Isabel, an emotionally damaged widow determined to walk away from a life that brought her only unhappiness.
A character driven story, this is a real page turner that delves into the darker areas of human nature and tests the mettle of the players. It may be a well-used formula, but an effective one which takes the reader on a roller coaster journey with a very satisfactory ending.
I look forward to more in the same genre from Alison Stuart.
August 12, 2016
I really appreciated the consistency of Ms Stuart's Regency setting and markers. The story is pacy and the characters are likeable while the storyline holds together well. I like that her female protagonist is not a total wall flower even in the restrictive hothouse of the era in which she is constrained. I appreciated the realism of the potential outcomes for her character especially when dealing with scandalous and taboo subjects.
From a harsh and difficult relationship to love and forgiveness, this story is a delightful romance.
From a harsh and difficult relationship to love and forgiveness, this story is a delightful romance.
September 5, 2021
4.5*
Having read and enjoyed Alison’s Australian colonial tales, I was eager to step back to Regency England for a change of scene. Suffering from Bridgestone Blues, it was time to find a fix somewhere else and I am happy to say Lord Somerton’s Heir more than fits the bill.
This is classic stuff and highly entertaining. Alison gives this Regency romance some real drama with a fabulous murder mystery. There is the mandatory handsome hero and a wise widow, along with a solid cast of other characters that bring real depth to this great getaway. Add to the standard plot of redemption some evil blackmailers, a couple of murders ending with an edge of your seat final coach chase across the English countryside which is all neatly tied together with a romantic bow for good measure.
Regency England comes to life from a lavish ball, to the other end of the spectrum with the lengths some poor souls needed to go to in order to survive. What I truly appreciated was how Alison subtlety brought to light the very real struggle of how the aristocracy lived beyond their means, often with the cost of running such estates moving beyond them.
I very much enjoyed my trip to Regency England - a sweet romance and murder mystery - with Alison’s words flowing at an easy and enjoyable pace that kept me engaged to the very end.
‘She was free, but at what price came that freedom? … To attain freedom, first she had to find Lord Sommerton’s heir.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Having read and enjoyed Alison’s Australian colonial tales, I was eager to step back to Regency England for a change of scene. Suffering from Bridgestone Blues, it was time to find a fix somewhere else and I am happy to say Lord Somerton’s Heir more than fits the bill.
This is classic stuff and highly entertaining. Alison gives this Regency romance some real drama with a fabulous murder mystery. There is the mandatory handsome hero and a wise widow, along with a solid cast of other characters that bring real depth to this great getaway. Add to the standard plot of redemption some evil blackmailers, a couple of murders ending with an edge of your seat final coach chase across the English countryside which is all neatly tied together with a romantic bow for good measure.
Regency England comes to life from a lavish ball, to the other end of the spectrum with the lengths some poor souls needed to go to in order to survive. What I truly appreciated was how Alison subtlety brought to light the very real struggle of how the aristocracy lived beyond their means, often with the cost of running such estates moving beyond them.
I very much enjoyed my trip to Regency England - a sweet romance and murder mystery - with Alison’s words flowing at an easy and enjoyable pace that kept me engaged to the very end.
‘She was free, but at what price came that freedom? … To attain freedom, first she had to find Lord Sommerton’s heir.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
September 2, 2019
Alison Stuart's writing caught my eye in a sample I downloaded. What a lucky moment for me!
It's been awhile since I found a new author that caught my eye in a free 26 page story. So then I purchased the book last night about 10 pm and started reading. Taking the hero from a Waterloo hospital to his new estate sets up a mystery and a romance that kept me turning pages until past 2 in the morning! Glad to have a new author to read.
It's been awhile since I found a new author that caught my eye in a free 26 page story. So then I purchased the book last night about 10 pm and started reading. Taking the hero from a Waterloo hospital to his new estate sets up a mystery and a romance that kept me turning pages until past 2 in the morning! Glad to have a new author to read.
September 5, 2021
Thank you Harlequin and Alison for sending us a copy to read and review.
A very entertaining historical regency romance with a hint of mystery.
Sebastian Alder is fighting for his life when he discovers he’s the new Lord Somerton.
Stepping into the role has its issues but most of all his wife’s death still haunts him.
As he arrives at the stately manor he soon discovers his cousin’s death may be murder and the suspect could be the former Lady Isobel Somerton.
Isobel has been in a unhappy marriage since the beginning.
Her husbands death has not left her sad and now she finds out she is broke.
Wanting to start up a school she must ask for the new Lord’s help.
Can a new attraction between the two lead to love?
A delightful, alluring and enchanting read.
Previously published in 2014 and with a little tweak here and there it’s available for the first time in large paperback.
These types of stories are usually aimed at Mills & Boon fans using the same formula, something I loved about it was while it still contains the classic love story it also has a thread of mystery and a sprinkle of suspense.
Alison has captured the elegance, prestige, peril and treachery in this fine story where dashing men and glamorous ladies fall in love against the odds.
Wonderfully written, engaging and steadily paced keeping the reader intrigued page after page.
A cast of characters to drive the plot from debonair lead gentlemen to sophisticated central heroines to even some dastardly ones too, throw in a charismatic secondary cast, all having their essential role to the storyline.
A tale of excellence that combines some conundrum, danger, flirtation, scandal, heartbreak, friendship and of course closed door seduction.
I think readers will adore this book………. Indeed!
A very entertaining historical regency romance with a hint of mystery.
Sebastian Alder is fighting for his life when he discovers he’s the new Lord Somerton.
Stepping into the role has its issues but most of all his wife’s death still haunts him.
As he arrives at the stately manor he soon discovers his cousin’s death may be murder and the suspect could be the former Lady Isobel Somerton.
Isobel has been in a unhappy marriage since the beginning.
Her husbands death has not left her sad and now she finds out she is broke.
Wanting to start up a school she must ask for the new Lord’s help.
Can a new attraction between the two lead to love?
A delightful, alluring and enchanting read.
Previously published in 2014 and with a little tweak here and there it’s available for the first time in large paperback.
These types of stories are usually aimed at Mills & Boon fans using the same formula, something I loved about it was while it still contains the classic love story it also has a thread of mystery and a sprinkle of suspense.
Alison has captured the elegance, prestige, peril and treachery in this fine story where dashing men and glamorous ladies fall in love against the odds.
Wonderfully written, engaging and steadily paced keeping the reader intrigued page after page.
A cast of characters to drive the plot from debonair lead gentlemen to sophisticated central heroines to even some dastardly ones too, throw in a charismatic secondary cast, all having their essential role to the storyline.
A tale of excellence that combines some conundrum, danger, flirtation, scandal, heartbreak, friendship and of course closed door seduction.
I think readers will adore this book………. Indeed!
June 8, 2014
Received from publisher via NetGalley for an honest review
"In the light of the lanterns held up by the stable hands, the glossy hide of the great, black horse reflected by fire." This was the first sentence and what followed was a just as lushly, rolling gentle written read.
Lord Somerton's Heir is a male Cinderella story with a touch of mystery. Sebastian is a soldier who fought and was injured in Waterloo. While suffering from a bullet wound and fever he is visited by a woman calling herself the Dowager Lady Somerton and stating he is the new Lord Somerton. While at first it seems like a stroke of good fortune, Sebastian soon discovers a mountain of debt, hanger on cousins, and a murder mystery are also part of the inheritance.
Isabel, Dowager Lady Somerton, is the heroine of the story and I found her to be the more stronger written character of the two. She appears cold and rigid at first but as the story goes on it is revealed the brick wall exterior is built from a horrible childhood, death of a child, and a lack of a relationship between her and her husband. She is very easy to sympathize with and as you read on you'll be wishing for her to get her happy ending. Sebastian, I felt, was more weakly written than Isabel. His humble beginnings are discussed, military service, and the traumatic death of his wife but he lacked the depth Isabel had. He always make the right decision, has a heart of gold, and I'm sure in his free time rescues puppies and babies. It started to feel very overdone.
The romance between the two is a very slow burn. They start off as strangers, move to friends, and at the very end of the book develop their romantic relationship. Their interactions are soft and gentle. There are really only two bedroom scenes and both were fairly short. I could see this book falling under the term of women's fiction.
The murder mystery story arc was intriguing and will keep you guessing. I do however, think the separate house maid murder and gold mine scam tangent should have been cut; it wasn't necessary and cluttered the story.
This is not a book that is going to elicit strong feelings, rather a chicken noodle soup comfort read. I suggest finding a babbling brook, laying down a blanket, and settling in for a nice read.
"In the light of the lanterns held up by the stable hands, the glossy hide of the great, black horse reflected by fire." This was the first sentence and what followed was a just as lushly, rolling gentle written read.
Lord Somerton's Heir is a male Cinderella story with a touch of mystery. Sebastian is a soldier who fought and was injured in Waterloo. While suffering from a bullet wound and fever he is visited by a woman calling herself the Dowager Lady Somerton and stating he is the new Lord Somerton. While at first it seems like a stroke of good fortune, Sebastian soon discovers a mountain of debt, hanger on cousins, and a murder mystery are also part of the inheritance.
Isabel, Dowager Lady Somerton, is the heroine of the story and I found her to be the more stronger written character of the two. She appears cold and rigid at first but as the story goes on it is revealed the brick wall exterior is built from a horrible childhood, death of a child, and a lack of a relationship between her and her husband. She is very easy to sympathize with and as you read on you'll be wishing for her to get her happy ending. Sebastian, I felt, was more weakly written than Isabel. His humble beginnings are discussed, military service, and the traumatic death of his wife but he lacked the depth Isabel had. He always make the right decision, has a heart of gold, and I'm sure in his free time rescues puppies and babies. It started to feel very overdone.
The romance between the two is a very slow burn. They start off as strangers, move to friends, and at the very end of the book develop their romantic relationship. Their interactions are soft and gentle. There are really only two bedroom scenes and both were fairly short. I could see this book falling under the term of women's fiction.
The murder mystery story arc was intriguing and will keep you guessing. I do however, think the separate house maid murder and gold mine scam tangent should have been cut; it wasn't necessary and cluttered the story.
This is not a book that is going to elicit strong feelings, rather a chicken noodle soup comfort read. I suggest finding a babbling brook, laying down a blanket, and settling in for a nice read.
May 8, 2014
A stunning Regency romance from the enormously talented Alison Stuart, who has the ability to spin historical stories which will draw in a reader who will simply never wish to return. LORD SOMERTON’S HEIR is an ESCAPE publication.
There are some secrets which we will carry to our grave. Isabel, Lady Somerton, doesn’t intend to ever share the truth about her unhappy marriage with anyone. She will take her small inheritance, move to the dower house and set up a school for young girls, spending the rest of her existence doing philanthropic works. But will her dream be realized? Or will her late, unlamented husband manage to ruin her dreams of a simple, worthwhile life, even from beyond the grave?
Wounded at Waterloo, Sebastian Alder is stunned to learn that he is the new Lord Somerton. The memory of the dreadful events he’s witnessed on the battlefield haunt him, as does the memory of his lost love. But he has no time to grieve. His Somerton inheritance is mostly debt. The late Lord Somerton’s life was a shambles of unpaid bills and useless relatives hanging on and draining his estate. Then there is the question of Lord Somerton’s beautiful widow. How can Sebastian shatter her dreams tell her that her late husband simply squandered her inheritance in useless living?
A beautifully told story set in a bygone age where life – for some at least – was more leisurely and unhurried, this will certainly please readers of historical romance, particularly Regency romance. And anyone wishing to try out historicals, Regency or otherwise, would be well advised to start with Alison Stuart. She’s a magical storyteller.
There are some secrets which we will carry to our grave. Isabel, Lady Somerton, doesn’t intend to ever share the truth about her unhappy marriage with anyone. She will take her small inheritance, move to the dower house and set up a school for young girls, spending the rest of her existence doing philanthropic works. But will her dream be realized? Or will her late, unlamented husband manage to ruin her dreams of a simple, worthwhile life, even from beyond the grave?
Wounded at Waterloo, Sebastian Alder is stunned to learn that he is the new Lord Somerton. The memory of the dreadful events he’s witnessed on the battlefield haunt him, as does the memory of his lost love. But he has no time to grieve. His Somerton inheritance is mostly debt. The late Lord Somerton’s life was a shambles of unpaid bills and useless relatives hanging on and draining his estate. Then there is the question of Lord Somerton’s beautiful widow. How can Sebastian shatter her dreams tell her that her late husband simply squandered her inheritance in useless living?
A beautifully told story set in a bygone age where life – for some at least – was more leisurely and unhurried, this will certainly please readers of historical romance, particularly Regency romance. And anyone wishing to try out historicals, Regency or otherwise, would be well advised to start with Alison Stuart. She’s a magical storyteller.
October 14, 2025
While the writing was good, I found the style stiff and difficult to engage. This book did not capture or hold my attention at all and unfortunately I was not able to finish it. I found myself getting distracted and bored with it. I just was not invested in the characters and didn’t care what happened to them. The most emotion the characters got out of me were Fanny and Freddy, and that was because they were such sycophants and leeches. I just hated them on right away.
In addition, the story did not seem original to me. New heir inherits title with no money has to figure out how to make ends meet, widow who wants her freedom after a bad marriage just seems done to death. I understand that with historicals, you get a lot of the same but different storylines, but this one just was not different enough to hold my interest. Everything about it was just blah.
In addition, the story did not seem original to me. New heir inherits title with no money has to figure out how to make ends meet, widow who wants her freedom after a bad marriage just seems done to death. I understand that with historicals, you get a lot of the same but different storylines, but this one just was not different enough to hold my interest. Everything about it was just blah.
August 3, 2025
Soldier becomes lord
5 stars
Good story and mystery...a bit of a death comes to pemberley vibe.
Isabel is the dowager lady of the manor and she helps Sebastian settle in. Bennet, Sebastian batman realises that there's a mystery about thd previous Lord's death plus he death of a maid
5 stars
Good story and mystery...a bit of a death comes to pemberley vibe.
Isabel is the dowager lady of the manor and she helps Sebastian settle in. Bennet, Sebastian batman realises that there's a mystery about thd previous Lord's death plus he death of a maid
August 12, 2014
“Lord Somerton’s Heir” is an old-school romance in the way horrible disasters keep befalling the already downtrodden Isabel.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 August issue of InD’tale Magazine.
November 12, 2025
3 Stars
This is my first book with this author. I liked it for the most part. There were a few times that I did not know how to feel about some of the characters though. The H, Sebastian Alder, is having a fish out of water experience. He has risen from being a relative nobody to a member of the aristocracy overnight. From Captain to Viscount. I liked him. I am almost predisposed to like anyone name Sebastian. He was a nice guy, kind. I thought he would be more alpha, but he had more beta tendencies. Especially in dealing with the main villains, IMHO.
The h, Isabel or Lady Somerton, has been through a lot. I found her character to be a bit bland.* She can come off a bit cold at first, but it is revealed what has shaped her—things in her past and in her 10-year(?) marriage to Anthony. It was a loveless complicated marriage. With only a brief time of happiness. The plot reveals some things, presenting a very contradictory portrayal of a character.
I like that there wasn’t an instant love or even attraction with these two. The H was actually drooling over some other females before he begin to appreciate the h. It’s a slow burn romance. Its story is also, for me, a little slow paced. Nothing to pull your hair out over but there might have been some light skimming here and there.
The villains are both obvious and not so obvious. All I can say without giving anything away. The main ones were revealed pretty quickly. I did not understand why they were not dealt with more quickly. They should have been kicked to the curb a lot sooner. They were encroaching, presumptuous,and unpleasant. Guests who wore out their welcome long ago. But for some undetermined reason everyone tiptoed around them. It did not seem realistic to me. We get to know some of the other secondary characters. For example, for some reason we get Bennett’s POV a few times. It seemed a bit random. But whatever. Shrug. There’s also the H’s siblings, friends, and a supposed rival (and etc.).
All the primary mystery revolving around the previous Lord Somerton, Anthony, was alright. I suspected the villains, it was more of finding out why. The other, minor, mystery was more of a surprise. I had some confusion with how low in funds the estate really was in. They claimed to be (rich folks version of) ‘broke’ but then there was plenty of money for a gala, Matt’s schooling, a hefty dowry for the sister and etc. (Guess that horse sale did it?) But for aristocracy in HRs this (a lack of money) often seems to be a relative thing a lot of times. I think the book could have been shorter. There’s 66 chapters and almost 400 pages. It could have gotten to the point sooner.
CONTENTS:
Intimacy: Kissing and closed door sexy times.
Violence: Yes, murder, assaults, shooting, and an abduction.
Language: Yes, there’s some light-med range cursing.
*Although I can’t say I like her character; however, I found Lady Kendall to be a more exciting character than the h.
This is my first book with this author. I liked it for the most part. There were a few times that I did not know how to feel about some of the characters though. The H, Sebastian Alder, is having a fish out of water experience. He has risen from being a relative nobody to a member of the aristocracy overnight. From Captain to Viscount. I liked him. I am almost predisposed to like anyone name Sebastian. He was a nice guy, kind. I thought he would be more alpha, but he had more beta tendencies. Especially in dealing with the main villains, IMHO.
The h, Isabel or Lady Somerton, has been through a lot. I found her character to be a bit bland.* She can come off a bit cold at first, but it is revealed what has shaped her—things in her past and in her 10-year(?) marriage to Anthony. It was a loveless complicated marriage. With only a brief time of happiness. The plot reveals some things, presenting a very contradictory portrayal of a character.
I like that there wasn’t an instant love or even attraction with these two. The H was actually drooling over some other females before he begin to appreciate the h. It’s a slow burn romance. Its story is also, for me, a little slow paced. Nothing to pull your hair out over but there might have been some light skimming here and there.
The villains are both obvious and not so obvious. All I can say without giving anything away. The main ones were revealed pretty quickly. I did not understand why they were not dealt with more quickly. They should have been kicked to the curb a lot sooner. They were encroaching, presumptuous,and unpleasant. Guests who wore out their welcome long ago. But for some undetermined reason everyone tiptoed around them. It did not seem realistic to me. We get to know some of the other secondary characters. For example, for some reason we get Bennett’s POV a few times. It seemed a bit random. But whatever. Shrug. There’s also the H’s siblings, friends, and a supposed rival (and etc.).
All the primary mystery revolving around the previous Lord Somerton, Anthony, was alright. I suspected the villains, it was more of finding out why. The other, minor, mystery was more of a surprise. I had some confusion with how low in funds the estate really was in. They claimed to be (rich folks version of) ‘broke’ but then there was plenty of money for a gala, Matt’s schooling, a hefty dowry for the sister and etc. (Guess that horse sale did it?) But for aristocracy in HRs this (a lack of money) often seems to be a relative thing a lot of times. I think the book could have been shorter. There’s 66 chapters and almost 400 pages. It could have gotten to the point sooner.
CONTENTS:
Intimacy: Kissing and closed door sexy times.
Violence: Yes, murder, assaults, shooting, and an abduction.
Language: Yes, there’s some light-med range cursing.
*Although I can’t say I like her character; however, I found Lady Kendall to be a more exciting character than the h.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 1, 2021
After reading some other books by this author I was very pleased to see that this new historical romance has had a nice little mystery included in it too. It isn’t quite a cozy mystery but it had you wondering and guessing from page one. The characters were beautifully written and the story flowed at a pace that had you turning the page to see what would happen next. I have enjoyed all the different eras and nationalities this author writes and am looking forward to seeing what she writes next. There was no sex in this book but lots of romance which also made this review very happy. I received this book as an Arc and freely give my review.
January 30, 2022
Alison Stuart's 'Lord Somerton's Heir' was a beautifully written romance novel set in the Regency period in England. The prose was easy to follow, the plot was well paced alongside the murder mystery that envelops both the two protagonists - Sebastian Alder and Isabel, Lady Somerton. The blossoming romance between Sebastian and Isabel saw the two of them battling their own inner demons and reflecting their own desires to have a happy ending following personal tragedies and grief that made them lose hope. An excellent read that I am sure I will come back to, time and time again for years to come.
Would recommend if you enjoy a romance read to pass the time!
Would recommend if you enjoy a romance read to pass the time!
October 12, 2021
This novel by Alison Stuart transported me to a different time and place, as historical events were seamlessly woven into the tale. The excitement built as mysteries unfolded. This book had me guessing until the end. The romance between Sebastian and Isabel was built on admiration and respect, the kind of slow-burn I love. An exciting climax. Highly recommend!
November 16, 2021
I listened to this book on audio and thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters we’re fabulously drawn and likeable. This wont be my last read of Alison Stuarts books.
March 11, 2022
My first Regency novel by Alison Stuart and won't be my last. I really like her writing.
October 3, 2025
Compelling. Enjoyable. Some bits of characterization a bit uneven. The villain’s motivation really fell apart in the end. Overall quite good. Trying this author again!
October 10, 2025
The H inherits an estate, endures all kinds of betrayal and to me, he seemed rather weak. Overloaded with drama.
October 10, 2025
One of the best mystery/romance books
I like to read the first few chapters in a book and then if it's terribly predictable I either skip to the last chapters or quit reading it altogether. However, I read this book savoring it all. It had me from start to finish.
I like to read the first few chapters in a book and then if it's terribly predictable I either skip to the last chapters or quit reading it altogether. However, I read this book savoring it all. It had me from start to finish.
January 27, 2022
Nice easy romance with a little who dunnit thrown in. Looking forward to reading more from Alison Stuart.
February 25, 2023
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ .. well written historical fiction romance about Sebastian and Isabel, 2 people who up until now haven’t had much luck in life.
One was found half frozen on the steps of a church with his mother as a toddler, the other orphaned early and raised by cruel mill owners.
Fortunes are wryly attributed to slavery.
They grow up, into soldiering and sad short marriages only to be thrown together when the Somerton estate is looking for a new heir.
Of course they fancy each other.. glimpsed chests and stray dark blonde curls do all the heavy lifting and it’s a race to the finish (😹🤦♀️)
The novel has more than a few Dickensian touches( Molly houses, abandoned children, severed tongues etc) but comes alive with some genuinely well written villains, some obvious and some hiding in plain sight.
I enjoyed it, the writing is fine and the outcome never in doubt
M 2023
One was found half frozen on the steps of a church with his mother as a toddler, the other orphaned early and raised by cruel mill owners.
Fortunes are wryly attributed to slavery.
They grow up, into soldiering and sad short marriages only to be thrown together when the Somerton estate is looking for a new heir.
Of course they fancy each other.. glimpsed chests and stray dark blonde curls do all the heavy lifting and it’s a race to the finish (😹🤦♀️)
The novel has more than a few Dickensian touches( Molly houses, abandoned children, severed tongues etc) but comes alive with some genuinely well written villains, some obvious and some hiding in plain sight.
I enjoyed it, the writing is fine and the outcome never in doubt
M 2023
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