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Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues #1
Lady Ludmilla's Accidental Letter
Lady Ludmilla Windmere, spinster extraordinaire, has a dilemma. She has fallen in love with her best friend, and that cannot be. The problem? She hasn’t met him. Not once. For they have only ever corresponded by letter. When she sets out to uncover the identity of her secret correspondent, her world shatters. For Addy turns out to be none other but London’s worst hellrake.
Adrian St. Addington, hellrake extraordinaire, has a problem. He is developing a marked tendre for a spinster, and that cannot be. The problem? He suspects she is taking him for someone he is not. Or is it that she knows precisely who he is? Either possibility he finds profoundly disturbing. For he has a role to uphold, cost what may. And a depraved heart like his surely cannot fall in love…least of all with a plain, outspoken spinster.
Determined to discover the truth behind the man she loves, Lu does what she does best: she sits down and writes a letter…
Escape into the world of the Regency ton with Sofi Laporte's new series, where spinsters are merry, rakes are charming, and no one is who they seem.
Adrian St. Addington, hellrake extraordinaire, has a problem. He is developing a marked tendre for a spinster, and that cannot be. The problem? He suspects she is taking him for someone he is not. Or is it that she knows precisely who he is? Either possibility he finds profoundly disturbing. For he has a role to uphold, cost what may. And a depraved heart like his surely cannot fall in love…least of all with a plain, outspoken spinster.
Determined to discover the truth behind the man she loves, Lu does what she does best: she sits down and writes a letter…
Escape into the world of the Regency ton with Sofi Laporte's new series, where spinsters are merry, rakes are charming, and no one is who they seem.
266 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2022
813 people are currently reading
1374 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 457 reviews
October 16, 2022
Lady Ludmilla Windermere, long resigned to spinsterhood, resides in Bath with her retiring Aunt, her correspondence with Addy, a bright spot in her otherwise sheltered life. No-one seems to understand her so well, or has the ability to raise her spirits so. Of course it is quite scandalous that she keeps up correspondence with a gentleman, even more so one she does not even know the true identity of. Furthermore, when circumstances take Ludmilla to London and she thinks she may have discovered Addy's true identity, she is startled to realize he may be none other than one of London's most notorious rakes!
My first read from Sofi Laporte, I was intrigued by the premise of the story, which whilst certainly unconventional for Regency times, did I thought have potential. Unfortunately, I have to say I ultimately found myself disappointed with this book, and the execution of the storyline and character development, and on the basis of this doubt I will read the second in the series.
One of my gripes was just how much the story and characters did not fit the time period, and whilst this is not the only book guilty of giving the characters an overly modern voice, there wasn't enough to recommend it for me to be able to overlook this fact. The author's clear lack of research into Regency customs was just glaringly obvious, either that, or she chose to disregard the conventions simply to suit her.
I didn't really feel any genuine chemistry between the two leads, their banter seeming forced and often just silly and childish. Furthermore, too much of the plot relied on trying to keep the reader guessing who Addy was, with repeated attempts to throw in some confusion, when it was in fact obvious from very early on. The side characters were rather lack-lustre too, and didn't add much to the story, other than adding to the confusion.
Overall, simply not my cup of tea, and there are simply far better Regency Romances out there.
My first read from Sofi Laporte, I was intrigued by the premise of the story, which whilst certainly unconventional for Regency times, did I thought have potential. Unfortunately, I have to say I ultimately found myself disappointed with this book, and the execution of the storyline and character development, and on the basis of this doubt I will read the second in the series.
One of my gripes was just how much the story and characters did not fit the time period, and whilst this is not the only book guilty of giving the characters an overly modern voice, there wasn't enough to recommend it for me to be able to overlook this fact. The author's clear lack of research into Regency customs was just glaringly obvious, either that, or she chose to disregard the conventions simply to suit her.
I didn't really feel any genuine chemistry between the two leads, their banter seeming forced and often just silly and childish. Furthermore, too much of the plot relied on trying to keep the reader guessing who Addy was, with repeated attempts to throw in some confusion, when it was in fact obvious from very early on. The side characters were rather lack-lustre too, and didn't add much to the story, other than adding to the confusion.
Overall, simply not my cup of tea, and there are simply far better Regency Romances out there.
April 12, 2022
If you love epistolary romance, then this is for you.
I went into this with zero expectation, mainly because I've never read anything from this author before and none of my friends have yet to pick this one up.
Let's just say I'm blown away by this book. Although having zero smut in here, I have never feel so satisfied by a first time author book. It really delivered what it promised in the blurb. I have no contention point whatsoever as this book is perfect as it is.
I love Ludmilla and I freaking love Adrian. That last chapter made my jaw dropped and sure I could use an epilogue or two but fuck, go read this one if you like the penpal trope thing. I stamped this one with a huge approval.
I went into this with zero expectation, mainly because I've never read anything from this author before and none of my friends have yet to pick this one up.
Let's just say I'm blown away by this book. Although having zero smut in here, I have never feel so satisfied by a first time author book. It really delivered what it promised in the blurb. I have no contention point whatsoever as this book is perfect as it is.
I love Ludmilla and I freaking love Adrian. That last chapter made my jaw dropped and sure I could use an epilogue or two but fuck, go read this one if you like the penpal trope thing. I stamped this one with a huge approval.
July 10, 2022
I am on the fence about rating this as it is a fun frothy Regency romance about things are not as they appear and letter writing. The book started out with humor; I enjoyed the bookstore dialogue. The middle with multiple misunderstandings and changing of characters was a bit too busy for me. The end was nice, but I never saw the flashes of fun that the book started out with. I give the book 3.5.
July 16, 2022
Quick read, but somewhat lacklustre and not particularly memorable.
July 7, 2022
3.5 stars rounded up!
A cute story with simple prose that makes it accessible for a variety of age levels and readers. Whether you're new to Historical Romance or a seasoned veteran, I'm certain there are elements of this book you will enjoy. I especially loved the epistolary aspect and how my expectations were constantly flipped in unexpected but satisfying ways. The steam level is low (kissing only), however you have not one but two central couples to root for. I only wish it was slightly longer so we really got to see the heat and affection develop between Lu and Adrian; however, I adored them both as main characters and am overall happy I picked this up on a whim!
A cute story with simple prose that makes it accessible for a variety of age levels and readers. Whether you're new to Historical Romance or a seasoned veteran, I'm certain there are elements of this book you will enjoy. I especially loved the epistolary aspect and how my expectations were constantly flipped in unexpected but satisfying ways. The steam level is low (kissing only), however you have not one but two central couples to root for. I only wish it was slightly longer so we really got to see the heat and affection develop between Lu and Adrian; however, I adored them both as main characters and am overall happy I picked this up on a whim!
April 21, 2022
This story had some twists & sent out the message: be
yourself no matter how others perceive you. Had kisses
only & 2 romance couples. A nice, light diversion from
the real world. Gave it 3.5 stars and rounded up.
A Duke died & his 2 daughters were separated: blond beauty
Jessica stayed with Aunt E in London, and plain Ludmilla
"Lu" with Great-Aunt Mildred (of many ailments) in Bath.
Lu sent Susan, her friend in London, a letter. Someone
replied: Susan no longer lived there. Thus Lu & a man,
bookish, quiet "Addy" corresponded for 3 yrs. They shared
interests in: books, the theatre, animals, humor. They
became best friends of sorts.
Lu joined Jess & her Aunt in London. They gave Lu a make-
over of clothes (she had drab clothes) and hairstyle and
she became more attractive. Addy knew Lu resided in
London (for now) and suggested they meet. Could she
chance this?
Lu met rakehell, Adrian, Viscount St. Addington in a circul-
ating library. (Adrian had insulted her looks years ago
while bosky w/ likewise bosky friends. She overheard this
exchange.) Unknown to her, Adrian was cousin of Adam,
called "Addy" & Adrian gave up his rake-ness 1 year prior
but the public still perceived him this way.
This had a comedy of errors. And humor around perception
vs reality (IE fair to call Jessica feather-headed?) on
personalities and who was attracted to whom?
yourself no matter how others perceive you. Had kisses
only & 2 romance couples. A nice, light diversion from
the real world. Gave it 3.5 stars and rounded up.
A Duke died & his 2 daughters were separated: blond beauty
Jessica stayed with Aunt E in London, and plain Ludmilla
"Lu" with Great-Aunt Mildred (of many ailments) in Bath.
Lu sent Susan, her friend in London, a letter. Someone
replied: Susan no longer lived there. Thus Lu & a man,
bookish, quiet "Addy" corresponded for 3 yrs. They shared
interests in: books, the theatre, animals, humor. They
became best friends of sorts.
Lu joined Jess & her Aunt in London. They gave Lu a make-
over of clothes (she had drab clothes) and hairstyle and
she became more attractive. Addy knew Lu resided in
London (for now) and suggested they meet. Could she
chance this?
Lu met rakehell, Adrian, Viscount St. Addington in a circul-
ating library. (Adrian had insulted her looks years ago
while bosky w/ likewise bosky friends. She overheard this
exchange.) Unknown to her, Adrian was cousin of Adam,
called "Addy" & Adrian gave up his rake-ness 1 year prior
but the public still perceived him this way.
This had a comedy of errors. And humor around perception
vs reality (IE fair to call Jessica feather-headed?) on
personalities and who was attracted to whom?
May 15, 2024
This was such a fun, quick read with some clever twists. It’s like a Regency You’ve Got Mail!
March 13, 2022
Barbara’s rating: 3.7 of 5 Stars
Series: Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues #1
Publication Date: 2/25/22
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 266
While this is not this author’s first book, it is the first book I’ve read by her. I enjoyed the read and am thoroughly looking forward to the next book in the series – but, unfortunately, we won’t get it for another year. The book was witty and humorous, but I didn’t ‘feel’ that strong attraction between the two main characters after they met face-to-face. Their letters definitely showed a connection, but it didn’t seem to carry through once they met – we were told it was there, but somehow, I just didn’t feel it. Golly – much of what I’ve just said sounds a bit negative, so, let me say again – I really enjoyed the read and will definitely read the next one.
Lady Ludmilla Windmere is a spinster at twenty-eight and believes herself to be the ugly duckling of the spectacularly attractive Windmere family. That belief was fostered by an unfortunate event that caused her to leave London during her first season and she hasn’t been back in the last ten years. Three years ago, she wrote a congratulatory letter to a friend, but was unaware the friend had moved. The letter she wrote was entertaining and witty – and gendered a response from the person who now lives at the residence. The reply Lady Ludmilla received was also witty and entertaining, so the two of them continued to correspond even though it turned out that the other person was a male and it was totally improper for them to write to each other. They don’t even know each other’s real names – she is Lu and he is Addy.
Adrian, Viscount Addington, is London’s most outstanding rake. He’s charming, witty, and the ladies fawn over him. Thanks to an experience in his teens, he has become an excellent actor and he only shows the world what he wants them to see. That persona isn’t the real him – but it is what everyone believes of him. The only person he trusts is his cousin Adam – because Adam is the only one in his family who stood by him when he needed it most.
Lu and Addy are each reluctant to meet the other because their friendship has become special to each of them and they are afraid actually meeting will spoil that. Yet, each is desperately curious about the other. They begin a dance around each other – enlisting the help of Adam and Ludmilla’s sister Juliet. With mishaps, mixups, and a bit of misleading each other, can they get together and find their HEA? You’ll just need to read the book to see.
I can certainly recommend this book as a fun and entertaining read. There are what I think are historical inaccuracies – as in Ludmilla purchasing and owning property in her own name. I don’t believe that was acceptable at the time – but I could be wrong there. What did keep throwing me out of the story though – was the use of the phrase ‘hell rake’. It could be a perfectly acceptable phrase for the time, but I have never seen it in the hundreds of historical romance books I’ve read. I’ve always seen the term ‘rakehell’, so when I see ‘hell rake’, it immediately sets my mind off wondering whether that is actually correct or not.
Regardless of owning property and hell rakes, I enjoyed the read and I hope you will as well. I’m looking forward to the next book, which I believe is titled Miss Ava’s Scandalous Secret.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues #1
Publication Date: 2/25/22
Period: Regency
Number of Pages: 266
While this is not this author’s first book, it is the first book I’ve read by her. I enjoyed the read and am thoroughly looking forward to the next book in the series – but, unfortunately, we won’t get it for another year. The book was witty and humorous, but I didn’t ‘feel’ that strong attraction between the two main characters after they met face-to-face. Their letters definitely showed a connection, but it didn’t seem to carry through once they met – we were told it was there, but somehow, I just didn’t feel it. Golly – much of what I’ve just said sounds a bit negative, so, let me say again – I really enjoyed the read and will definitely read the next one.
Lady Ludmilla Windmere is a spinster at twenty-eight and believes herself to be the ugly duckling of the spectacularly attractive Windmere family. That belief was fostered by an unfortunate event that caused her to leave London during her first season and she hasn’t been back in the last ten years. Three years ago, she wrote a congratulatory letter to a friend, but was unaware the friend had moved. The letter she wrote was entertaining and witty – and gendered a response from the person who now lives at the residence. The reply Lady Ludmilla received was also witty and entertaining, so the two of them continued to correspond even though it turned out that the other person was a male and it was totally improper for them to write to each other. They don’t even know each other’s real names – she is Lu and he is Addy.
Adrian, Viscount Addington, is London’s most outstanding rake. He’s charming, witty, and the ladies fawn over him. Thanks to an experience in his teens, he has become an excellent actor and he only shows the world what he wants them to see. That persona isn’t the real him – but it is what everyone believes of him. The only person he trusts is his cousin Adam – because Adam is the only one in his family who stood by him when he needed it most.
Lu and Addy are each reluctant to meet the other because their friendship has become special to each of them and they are afraid actually meeting will spoil that. Yet, each is desperately curious about the other. They begin a dance around each other – enlisting the help of Adam and Ludmilla’s sister Juliet. With mishaps, mixups, and a bit of misleading each other, can they get together and find their HEA? You’ll just need to read the book to see.
I can certainly recommend this book as a fun and entertaining read. There are what I think are historical inaccuracies – as in Ludmilla purchasing and owning property in her own name. I don’t believe that was acceptable at the time – but I could be wrong there. What did keep throwing me out of the story though – was the use of the phrase ‘hell rake’. It could be a perfectly acceptable phrase for the time, but I have never seen it in the hundreds of historical romance books I’ve read. I’ve always seen the term ‘rakehell’, so when I see ‘hell rake’, it immediately sets my mind off wondering whether that is actually correct or not.
Regardless of owning property and hell rakes, I enjoyed the read and I hope you will as well. I’m looking forward to the next book, which I believe is titled Miss Ava’s Scandalous Secret.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 14, 2024
I enjoy this cute story . It has nice characters and good humour.
March 11, 2022
✉️ Lady Ludmilla's Accidental Letter 📜
Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues
✒️ Sofi Laporte
https://www.facebook.com/sofilaportea...
Release Date 02/25/2022
Publisher Lapuerta Publishing
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MFQ1FKQ/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A resolute spinster. An irresistible rake. One accidental letter… Can love triumph over this hopeless muddle in the middle of the London season?
Lady Ludmilla Windmere is mortified. The spinster extraordinaire has fallen in love with her best friend, and that cannot be. The problem? She hasn’t met him. Not once. For they have only ever corresponded by letter. When she sets out to uncover his identity, her world shatters. For Addy turns out to be none other but London’s worst rake.
Adrian St.Addington is perturbed. The rakehell extraordinaire is developing a marked tendre for a spinster, and that cannot be. The problem? She might be mistaking him for someone he is not. Or, what is worse, know precisely who he is. A depraved heart like his surely cannot fall in love…least of all with a plain, outspoken spinster.
Determined to discover the truth behind the man she loves, Lu does what she does best: she sits down and writes a letter…
If you crave a humorous romp with witty banter and surprising twists, you will love Sofi Laporte’s charming masquerade.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When a misaddressed letter turns into an unexpected friendship…
Lu fled the London’s society when she overheard a wager including herself, the homeliest of her well renowned for their beauty’s family. From then, she hides at her parents estate and after their passing with her hypochondriac aunt. Her only highlight, the letters she scandalously exchange with a stranger, who over the years became her friend.
And now she is back in the city, she fears to disappoint him while she also wants to meet the man who makes her soul sings.
St. Addington is the conundrum of this story, is he or not her penpal. The author plays at leading us on many paths, mixing facts with his cousin, the bookish fellow when Adrian is the rake.
He wears so many masks, educated, idle, a secret hobby, indolent. So who is he really. A man drowning in the angst and sorrows of his path or a man who longs for something else than empty pursuits.
I felt it was not right St. Addington’s own trauma was not addressed outside a mention to explain his entrance in the world of sins, there is no resolution, he is pointed as the culprit when he is the victim. His wounds run much deeper than Lu’s hurt pride. But only Lu’s pain is discussed.
This is a tale of two persons who choose to hide but in looking to unmask the other they caught two others into their scheme, hurting everyone in the process.
3 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 clean
I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/Ca7LWI4g...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
Merry Spinsters, Charming Rogues
✒️ Sofi Laporte
https://www.facebook.com/sofilaportea...
Release Date 02/25/2022
Publisher Lapuerta Publishing
➪ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09MFQ1FKQ/...
𝗕𝗹𝘂𝗿𝗯
A resolute spinster. An irresistible rake. One accidental letter… Can love triumph over this hopeless muddle in the middle of the London season?
Lady Ludmilla Windmere is mortified. The spinster extraordinaire has fallen in love with her best friend, and that cannot be. The problem? She hasn’t met him. Not once. For they have only ever corresponded by letter. When she sets out to uncover his identity, her world shatters. For Addy turns out to be none other but London’s worst rake.
Adrian St.Addington is perturbed. The rakehell extraordinaire is developing a marked tendre for a spinster, and that cannot be. The problem? She might be mistaking him for someone he is not. Or, what is worse, know precisely who he is. A depraved heart like his surely cannot fall in love…least of all with a plain, outspoken spinster.
Determined to discover the truth behind the man she loves, Lu does what she does best: she sits down and writes a letter…
If you crave a humorous romp with witty banter and surprising twists, you will love Sofi Laporte’s charming masquerade.
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
When a misaddressed letter turns into an unexpected friendship…
Lu fled the London’s society when she overheard a wager including herself, the homeliest of her well renowned for their beauty’s family. From then, she hides at her parents estate and after their passing with her hypochondriac aunt. Her only highlight, the letters she scandalously exchange with a stranger, who over the years became her friend.
And now she is back in the city, she fears to disappoint him while she also wants to meet the man who makes her soul sings.
St. Addington is the conundrum of this story, is he or not her penpal. The author plays at leading us on many paths, mixing facts with his cousin, the bookish fellow when Adrian is the rake.
He wears so many masks, educated, idle, a secret hobby, indolent. So who is he really. A man drowning in the angst and sorrows of his path or a man who longs for something else than empty pursuits.
I felt it was not right St. Addington’s own trauma was not addressed outside a mention to explain his entrance in the world of sins, there is no resolution, he is pointed as the culprit when he is the victim. His wounds run much deeper than Lu’s hurt pride. But only Lu’s pain is discussed.
This is a tale of two persons who choose to hide but in looking to unmask the other they caught two others into their scheme, hurting everyone in the process.
3 stars
𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 clean
I have been granted an advance copy by Rachel’s Random Ressources, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.instagram.com/tv/Ca7LWI4g...
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
#bookstagram #historicalromance #romance #romancebookblog #romancebookblogger #bookblog #romanceauthor #bookblogger #2022read #bookstagrammer #bookreview #romancebookreviewer #arcreader #bookquote #romancestagram #readersofinstagram
June 22, 2023
guys I have been in such a reading slump, boo! but not “boo” at the same time bc it’s been one of those “yeah idgaf that I’m in a reading slump” moods. so actually a bit scary bc does that mean everything has just been BORING TO ME? Idk & Idc to really know but all I know is that the last two books I have read have been BOMB & aww wow, I love that for meeeeee
dnf
April 16, 2025DNF at 58%
The heroine’s insistence on continuing to hide her identity is annoying me. Her sister rightfully calls her out but somehow ends the conversation apologizing and saying the heroine’s nonsense reasoning makes sense.
Plus it’s all very convoluted and that’s preventing me from really buying into it.
4.16.25
The heroine’s insistence on continuing to hide her identity is annoying me. Her sister rightfully calls her out but somehow ends the conversation apologizing and saying the heroine’s nonsense reasoning makes sense.
Plus it’s all very convoluted and that’s preventing me from really buying into it.
4.16.25
November 12, 2023
New Letter who dis?
probably some rake somewhere.
What a cute book! I read it in breaks all day and ended the last few chapters with me wandering out into the backyard, then out to the park with my dogs as they went on a sniffing, squirrel-hunting mission and I stood in place holding my Paperwhite and giggled like a fifteen year old. I love writing letters. Do people still write letters? This book made me research that question but no - electronic letters are just not the same. .
I recently read a futuristic pen pal love story in the middle of a Time War kerfuffle: How To Lose A Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone and that opened a whole new delight for me. This book just added to my interest in the archaic form of communication.
A truly welcome palate cleanser!
Romance Plot/Storyline/Themes: Pacing Perfection. The opening chapter was such a hook and yanked me out of my world and into my first Regency Romance. I love it all; the manners, the aires and all that fancy socialite bull. I mean the post scripts alone were just adorable!
Characters: Aunt Ernestine and Aunt Mildred were my favorite supporting characters.
Lu: Every strike against her in regency romance would be the reason why Fae Kings would fall head over heels for her. Let's see: Sallow skin with freckles, Jet Black hair. Check, She wears khakis and caps and is a norm breaker. Check. She's cottagecore: isolated, bibliophile, who wants a cottage and chickens. Check.
●Adrian: Sexy devil. sure he has layers but I don't care about that right now. nom nom nom.
●Great Aunt Mildred A hypochondriac who loves catastrophizing and has succumbed to what she perceives to be the end of her rope. She had me snort-laughing
●Aunt ErnestineI would like to go shopping with Lady Rutherford, I need her to "she's all that me" too!
●Jessica Kind of forgettable but maybe because she is just another Windemere buxom blonde and so I just wrote her off anyhow.
●Favorite/Curious//Ludicrous/Unique Scene::
Honestly, I cackled at every scene with Aunt Ernestine. But this one had me spitting out my drink.
●“Good Heavens, Aunt. Are you certain Jessica’s reputation won’t be
tarnished when she is seen in his company?” Under no circumstances did
she want her to dance with St Addington.
“Poppycock. He has no taste for insipid debutantes, so Jessica will be
safe. (Aunt Ernestine, Jessica and Ludmilla after a day of shopping, discussing husband-hunting prep)
Favorite/Curious/Ludicrous/Unique Quotes:
■My dear Ludmilla. This is beside the point. The point is that he died a most horrific death because he laughed while eating. At least he did not die of the black pox, like his sister (Great Aunt Mildred on the heinous act of laughing out loud )
■“Fiddlesticks. “Can a person have some tea in this house? Preferably something unlaced with laudanum or other tonics. (Aunt Ernestine after a glorious tirade )
■He ruined perfectly respectable women and debutantes merely by looking at them. Men lost their entire fortunes to him. He won entire estates, while the poor men who
lost to him shot themselves at dawn. (Ludmilla on the scandalous Lord St. Addington)
Favorite/Curious/Ludicrous/Unique Concepts:
♧Bring Back Snail Mail! Bring Back Penpals! I'll be here all day with my soapbox.
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2025
Challenge Prompt: 150 Romance books by 2025
What a cute book! I read it in breaks all day and ended the last few chapters with me wandering out into the backyard, then out to the park with my dogs as they went on a sniffing, squirrel-hunting mission and I stood in place holding my Paperwhite and giggled like a fifteen year old. I love writing letters. Do people still write letters? This book made me research that question but no - electronic letters are just not the same. .
I recently read a futuristic pen pal love story in the middle of a Time War kerfuffle: How To Lose A Time War by Amal El-Mohtar and Max Gladstone and that opened a whole new delight for me. This book just added to my interest in the archaic form of communication.
A truly welcome palate cleanser!
Romance Plot/Storyline/Themes: Pacing Perfection. The opening chapter was such a hook and yanked me out of my world and into my first Regency Romance. I love it all; the manners, the aires and all that fancy socialite bull. I mean the post scripts alone were just adorable!
Characters: Aunt Ernestine and Aunt Mildred were my favorite supporting characters.
Lu: Every strike against her in regency romance would be the reason why Fae Kings would fall head over heels for her. Let's see: Sallow skin with freckles, Jet Black hair. Check, She wears khakis and caps and is a norm breaker. Check. She's cottagecore: isolated, bibliophile, who wants a cottage and chickens. Check.
●Adrian: Sexy devil. sure he has layers but I don't care about that right now. nom nom nom.
●Great Aunt Mildred A hypochondriac who loves catastrophizing and has succumbed to what she perceives to be the end of her rope. She had me snort-laughing
●Aunt ErnestineI would like to go shopping with Lady Rutherford, I need her to "she's all that me" too!
●Jessica Kind of forgettable but maybe because she is just another Windemere buxom blonde and so I just wrote her off anyhow.
●Favorite/Curious//Ludicrous/Unique Scene::
Honestly, I cackled at every scene with Aunt Ernestine. But this one had me spitting out my drink.
●“Good Heavens, Aunt. Are you certain Jessica’s reputation won’t be
tarnished when she is seen in his company?” Under no circumstances did
she want her to dance with St Addington.
“Poppycock. He has no taste for insipid debutantes, so Jessica will be
safe. (Aunt Ernestine, Jessica and Ludmilla after a day of shopping, discussing husband-hunting prep)
Favorite/Curious/Ludicrous/Unique Quotes:
■My dear Ludmilla. This is beside the point. The point is that he died a most horrific death because he laughed while eating. At least he did not die of the black pox, like his sister (Great Aunt Mildred on the heinous act of laughing out loud )
■“Fiddlesticks. “Can a person have some tea in this house? Preferably something unlaced with laudanum or other tonics. (Aunt Ernestine after a glorious tirade )
■He ruined perfectly respectable women and debutantes merely by looking at them. Men lost their entire fortunes to him. He won entire estates, while the poor men who
lost to him shot themselves at dawn. (Ludmilla on the scandalous Lord St. Addington)
Favorite/Curious/Ludicrous/Unique Concepts:
♧Bring Back Snail Mail! Bring Back Penpals! I'll be here all day with my soapbox.
StoryGraph Challenge: 1800 Books by 2025
Challenge Prompt: 150 Romance books by 2025
October 27, 2022
Lady Ludmilla’s Accidental Letter was about the spinster, Lady "Lu" Ludmilla Marie Windmere, and London's worst rakehell, Lord Adrian Adey, the Viscount St Addington.
After having been treated poorly during her first season and then losing their parents, Lu and her sister, Jessica, were split up, with Lu going to stay in Bath with their Aunt Mildred, and Jessica going to live in London to live with their Aunt Ernestina. While Jessica got to live it up in town, Lu had been made Aunt Mildred's companion and turned into a drudge. While living in Bath, Lu wrote a congratulatory letter to one of her friends who had recently married. The letter was filled with childhood remembrances and even some of their antics. However, the response she received was not from her friend, but from the person who had taken up residence in her friend's former home and had mistakenly read the missive. This started a three-year correspondence between Lu and her new friend, "Addy"...although this pen pal informed her almost immediately that Addy was not of the female persuasion but was, in fact, a man.
Lu's London aunt decided that she should join her sister in London in order for them to attend the Season together in hopes that both Lu and Jessica could find husbands. In one of her letters, she mentioned the move to Addy and was surprised when his reply suggested that they finally meet face-to-face while she was in town.
Lu's curiosity about the identity of her pen pal had been eating her up. When her aunt decided that she needed a whole new wardrobe in order to be presentable before society, Lu realized how close she was to Addy's residence. When she saw a man come out of the townhouse, she was appalled, for it was a man who had been instrumental in her devastation several years before. Surely that wasn't her friend? Or was it?
The twists and turns of this book were often confusing. It seemed the author enjoyed keeping the reader puzzled from beginning to end. Was this one love story...or two? Who was the real "Addy" that was corresponding with Lu? Who would Lu choose? Would Lu choose anyone? It was a rollercoaster of questions that took forever to finally receive answers.
While the storyline was a bit unique, the drama and angst were unnecessarily high and the book was drawn out for too long, nearly losing the interest of the reader. The emotions were lopsided, at best. There was never any real chemistry or passion with any of the characters, let alone the main two. The main focus was on the correspondence and "who was who" of the story. There were no real romances to speak of. It was more or less all angst, anger, deception (after deception), and making people either jealous or trying to make them believe a lie was the truth and the truth was a lie. It was very frustrating.
The characters were a bit stiff and unbelievable. They lacked so much that I don't even know where to start. Every single character was immature and they were all too cowardly to speak honestly to each other. There was so much wrong with this book that it boggled the mind. This book definitely did not earn a five-star rating...and I don't think I'll read the second book that is supposed to be coming out next year. I won't waste my time.
After having been treated poorly during her first season and then losing their parents, Lu and her sister, Jessica, were split up, with Lu going to stay in Bath with their Aunt Mildred, and Jessica going to live in London to live with their Aunt Ernestina. While Jessica got to live it up in town, Lu had been made Aunt Mildred's companion and turned into a drudge. While living in Bath, Lu wrote a congratulatory letter to one of her friends who had recently married. The letter was filled with childhood remembrances and even some of their antics. However, the response she received was not from her friend, but from the person who had taken up residence in her friend's former home and had mistakenly read the missive. This started a three-year correspondence between Lu and her new friend, "Addy"...although this pen pal informed her almost immediately that Addy was not of the female persuasion but was, in fact, a man.
Lu's London aunt decided that she should join her sister in London in order for them to attend the Season together in hopes that both Lu and Jessica could find husbands. In one of her letters, she mentioned the move to Addy and was surprised when his reply suggested that they finally meet face-to-face while she was in town.
Lu's curiosity about the identity of her pen pal had been eating her up. When her aunt decided that she needed a whole new wardrobe in order to be presentable before society, Lu realized how close she was to Addy's residence. When she saw a man come out of the townhouse, she was appalled, for it was a man who had been instrumental in her devastation several years before. Surely that wasn't her friend? Or was it?
The twists and turns of this book were often confusing. It seemed the author enjoyed keeping the reader puzzled from beginning to end. Was this one love story...or two? Who was the real "Addy" that was corresponding with Lu? Who would Lu choose? Would Lu choose anyone? It was a rollercoaster of questions that took forever to finally receive answers.
While the storyline was a bit unique, the drama and angst were unnecessarily high and the book was drawn out for too long, nearly losing the interest of the reader. The emotions were lopsided, at best. There was never any real chemistry or passion with any of the characters, let alone the main two. The main focus was on the correspondence and "who was who" of the story. There were no real romances to speak of. It was more or less all angst, anger, deception (after deception), and making people either jealous or trying to make them believe a lie was the truth and the truth was a lie. It was very frustrating.
The characters were a bit stiff and unbelievable. They lacked so much that I don't even know where to start. Every single character was immature and they were all too cowardly to speak honestly to each other. There was so much wrong with this book that it boggled the mind. This book definitely did not earn a five-star rating...and I don't think I'll read the second book that is supposed to be coming out next year. I won't waste my time.
October 25, 2023
This was a book I picked up on a whim because it was on KU and it was the genre I was wanting—regency. It started out very humorous and had the regency dramatics that I enjoy, but I ended up not liking it as much by the ending. I knew he was a flirt and was expecting that, but the comments on women’s chests were ridiculous. Because of his comments he made a long time ago when drunk (I’m excepting volunteers to help tar and feather him—the man needed to grovel at her feet in my honest opinion and that didn’t happen enough), comments on women’s bodies and breasts, his flirting ways, and mentions of “indecent” novels, it overall felt meh to me. She also ended up being very flighty on her interests in him. Sad to say that I didn’t like this one. Entertaining at times, yes, but had content I had problems with. :(
Putting the main content under the spoiler section because there’s a couple spoilers but also content I don’t want younger eyes to see:
Main Content-
Putting the main content under the spoiler section because there’s a couple spoilers but also content I don’t want younger eyes to see:
Main Content-
May 16, 2022
This book was a complete and utter delight 😍
In a lot of ways, if felt like a very loose retelling of Daddy Long Legs (*very* loose) and I loved the similarities
But Lu and St Addington and Jessica and Adam were all delightful in their own right and I loved the twists and turns and how we were kept guessing (I read the end of the book to spoil the twist for myself and still felt like I was still guessing up until the end xD)
It was just so soft and bantery and sweet and I adored it. Parts of the ending felt a little unrealistic to me, but honestly wasn't too concerned with that as they weren't major plot points, and the ending was so so good
All in all, a delightful read that kept me turning pages and feels very soft and giddy inside 💕
In a lot of ways, if felt like a very loose retelling of Daddy Long Legs (*very* loose) and I loved the similarities
But Lu and St Addington and Jessica and Adam were all delightful in their own right and I loved the twists and turns and how we were kept guessing (I read the end of the book to spoil the twist for myself and still felt like I was still guessing up until the end xD)
It was just so soft and bantery and sweet and I adored it. Parts of the ending felt a little unrealistic to me, but honestly wasn't too concerned with that as they weren't major plot points, and the ending was so so good
All in all, a delightful read that kept me turning pages and feels very soft and giddy inside 💕
March 16, 2023
This was sweet, funny, light and no sex scenes.
February 23, 2022
This was the perfect book to read at this dark, cold, depressing time of year. It’s bright, clever, humorous, and engaging, and it ends in the perfect manner. The characters are delightful, each with their own quirks, and that makes them seem real.
Lady Ludmilla has been writing to a *gasp* male friend for three years. She’s never met him, but they get along swimmingly in their correspondence. But when Lady Ludmilla is dragged off to London for the season by her aunt, it’s possible that she’s been mistaken about the man to whom she’s been writing.
Viscount St Addington is a well-known rake . . . or is he? People will believe what they wish, and he’s decided to live the lie that people believe about him. Sort of. He has secrets that he isn’t willing to share with the ton, but they come to light due to Lady Lu’s insightfulness.
If you enjoy enemies to lovers stories, this one will keep you involved, captivated, and turning pages. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
Lady Ludmilla has been writing to a *gasp* male friend for three years. She’s never met him, but they get along swimmingly in their correspondence. But when Lady Ludmilla is dragged off to London for the season by her aunt, it’s possible that she’s been mistaken about the man to whom she’s been writing.
Viscount St Addington is a well-known rake . . . or is he? People will believe what they wish, and he’s decided to live the lie that people believe about him. Sort of. He has secrets that he isn’t willing to share with the ton, but they come to light due to Lady Lu’s insightfulness.
If you enjoy enemies to lovers stories, this one will keep you involved, captivated, and turning pages. I highly recommend this book.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book from the author. I thank her for her generosity, but it had no effect on this review. All opinions in this review reflect my true and honest reactions to reading this book.
October 17, 2023
This was sooo cute, I loved Lu and St. Addington! No steamy scenes, but I don't really mind because their chemistry was off the charts.
December 18, 2024
It was okay
The way this book could’ve been wayyyyyyyy shorter if they just communicated. I believe it would’ve ended 100 pages in. However, they suddenly figured out how to talk to each other during the last ten pages (conveniently)… So much potential, but it just fell flat!
(Hey, at least this brought me out of my reading slump - which is why I gave it a 3)
The way this book could’ve been wayyyyyyyy shorter if they just communicated. I believe it would’ve ended 100 pages in. However, they suddenly figured out how to talk to each other during the last ten pages (conveniently)… So much potential, but it just fell flat!
(Hey, at least this brought me out of my reading slump - which is why I gave it a 3)
September 19, 2022
Cute story.
March 11, 2024
Very entertaining, charming historical romance
This charming, sweet historical Romance was just what I needed to read right now - an upbeat, witty, romance with a touch of mystery and a happily ever after ending. I love spinster stories and this one had an added bonus with a rake as a main character. The author has done a great job of creating strong characters, particularly with Ludmilla and Adrian. I especially appreciated Ludmilla’s backstory. If the subsequent books in this series are as enjoyable as this book, I can’t wait to read all of the other books.
This charming, sweet historical Romance was just what I needed to read right now - an upbeat, witty, romance with a touch of mystery and a happily ever after ending. I love spinster stories and this one had an added bonus with a rake as a main character. The author has done a great job of creating strong characters, particularly with Ludmilla and Adrian. I especially appreciated Ludmilla’s backstory. If the subsequent books in this series are as enjoyable as this book, I can’t wait to read all of the other books.
March 20, 2024
3.5 stars
Light and fluffy and irreverent, this short regency was a playful romantic mix-up, where none of the heroes was sure in the beginning who they were in love with. Royal confusion ensued.
One critical reviewer complained that the characters don't fit the time period. I agree: they don't. But I didn't read this book for historical accuracy. I read it for fun, and fun it delivered, oodles of it. The narrative wasn't anywhere near perfect, and the characterization could've been done better, but the story was engaging, the cast sympathetic, if not exactly 3-dimentional, and the humor catching. My chief emotion while reading this book could be named amusement. Enjoyment also works. Or simply pleasure. Anyway, I'm definitely going to buy the next book in the series.
Light and fluffy and irreverent, this short regency was a playful romantic mix-up, where none of the heroes was sure in the beginning who they were in love with. Royal confusion ensued.
One critical reviewer complained that the characters don't fit the time period. I agree: they don't. But I didn't read this book for historical accuracy. I read it for fun, and fun it delivered, oodles of it. The narrative wasn't anywhere near perfect, and the characterization could've been done better, but the story was engaging, the cast sympathetic, if not exactly 3-dimentional, and the humor catching. My chief emotion while reading this book could be named amusement. Enjoyment also works. Or simply pleasure. Anyway, I'm definitely going to buy the next book in the series.
September 4, 2023
Lady Ludmilla's Accidental Letter is a Regency romantic comedy with a breezy story.
The book is read easily, especially since the story is light and fluff. And sure, it is predictable, but it is enjoyable to read and the main character is adorable. Her character development in the end was a pleasant surprise as well.
Finally, the narration of the audiobook was great!!
The book is read easily, especially since the story is light and fluff. And sure, it is predictable, but it is enjoyable to read and the main character is adorable. Her character development in the end was a pleasant surprise as well.
Finally, the narration of the audiobook was great!!
February 12, 2022
What an enjoyable story! I was laughing the entire time I was reading it. I devoured it in one sitting and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series! I don't want to say too much for fear of spoiling the fun, but I really enjoyed the characters and the twists the story took. And I will say this... there's a pretty great kissing scene!
I received a complimentary copy and all opinions are my own.
I received a complimentary copy and all opinions are my own.
February 12, 2022
I received an ARC copy of this book for my honest review, and I am so lucky to have been given this opportunity! I could not put Lady Ludmilla down. It had such well developed characters - I especially felt connected to the heroine although our hero was no slouch himself. I appreciate when characters in a story have more to their personality than just being unrealistically beautiful. A thoughtful, well written plot with just enough mystery kept the story moving and me thoroughly engaged.
I enjoyed Sofi Laporte’s Wishing Well series, and think with each subsequent book, she has improved her craft. She has really hit her stride with Lady Ludmilla. Can’t wait to read the next book!
I enjoyed Sofi Laporte’s Wishing Well series, and think with each subsequent book, she has improved her craft. She has really hit her stride with Lady Ludmilla. Can’t wait to read the next book!
April 20, 2022
Such a cute story that was full of surprises!
April 25, 2022
not the best, but also not the worst
I enjoyed the trope here but I did think some parts of the plot were rather contrived and the author tended toward over-explanation. By the third misunderstanding I was a bit tired of it. But I did enjoy it overall, even if it could have been finessed.
I enjoyed the trope here but I did think some parts of the plot were rather contrived and the author tended toward over-explanation. By the third misunderstanding I was a bit tired of it. But I did enjoy it overall, even if it could have been finessed.
August 11, 2022
Sometimes 3.5,
Uses to much of the word 'one does this and one does not',
Lacks depth etc even though I enjoyed the tone of the books and the plot twist which could have taken a more believable route.
Uses to much of the word 'one does this and one does not',
Lacks depth etc even though I enjoyed the tone of the books and the plot twist which could have taken a more believable route.
May 12, 2024
A very fast and light read, but several things made no sense.
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