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Isabelle: The page-turning Regency romance from the author of Kingscastle
Isabelle Wareham, whilst caring for her beloved widowed father, has not seen much of the world. After his death, Isabelle finds she is no longer her own mistress but under the guardianship of her unscrupulous brother-in-law, Lord Dunsfold, who sees her as a way to improve his own fortunes.
The outlook is bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished former soldier Lord Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to rise above her circumstances to grasp her chance of happiness.
The outlook is bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished former soldier Lord Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to rise above her circumstances to grasp her chance of happiness.
354 pages, Paperback
Published December 15, 2022
42 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Sophia Holloway
11 books104 followersSophia Holloway describes herself as a ‘wordsmith’. She read Modern History at Oxford, and her factual book on the Royal Marines in the First World War, From Trench and Turret, was published in 2006. Shea takes her pen name from her great grandmother ( hence the photograph portrait). She also writes the Bradecote & Catchpoll mediaeval murder mysteries under the pen name, Sarah Hawkswood. Her third Classic Regency novel, 'Kingscastle' was published in paperback and ebook by Allison & Busby in November 2021, with another due out in spring 2022.
She is a member of the Historical Writers’ Association, the Historical Novel Society, and the Crime Writers' Associationand the Romantic Novelists' Association.
She is a member of the Historical Writers’ Association, the Historical Novel Society, and the Crime Writers' Associationand the Romantic Novelists' Association.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 19, 2022
3.5* rounded up. I enjoy Sophia Holloway's work, and in my opinion, she is excellent at creating in a niche genre of Heyer'esque style writing. But, sadly, this wasn't filled with the type of fun-loving quick banter and antics that would make it a 5* read for me.
It is a delightful read nonetheless, and as always, the gifted Welshman Matt Addis brings his skilful narration talent to various accents.
It is a delightful read nonetheless, and as always, the gifted Welshman Matt Addis brings his skilful narration talent to various accents.
December 14, 2022
Isabelle Wareham, recently orphaned, is a strong woman, but as not being of age yet falls under her brother-in-law´s guardianship. He doesn´t have the best in mind for her though, especially when a man appears and an accident happens.. With some dark points and the cruel treatment of Isabelle the story develops till the happy ending. I liked the different characters and story lines, once I had managed the rather clumsy start of the book.
Recommended for a holiday read or a present for lovers of Regency Romance.
Recommended for a holiday read or a present for lovers of Regency Romance.
December 13, 2022
Isabelle was a delight for a reader like me – someone who enjoys historical romance and manners more than historical romance and graphic sex. This novel has the added bonus of some hijinks involving a cat and a fur muff in the manner of Georgette Heyer.
Our heroine is Isabelle, recently orphaned and with a sister who might as well be a fairy tale stepsister, she is so resentful of Isabelle. For four years, Isabelle and her father’s faithful valet have assisted her ailing Papa and managed the estate as he declined. Now he is dead, and he had the gall (according to her sister and brother-in-law) to leave his estate to Isabelle. Fortunately, Isabelle has a good-natured cousin to protect her from the dastardly pair and from the patronizing suitor who feels certain she will marry him given enough time.
Isabelle’s father always hosted the Boxing Day hunt, and she eagerly agrees to host without him, to give her something to think about other than her grief. An unfortunate shooting accident leaves Isabelle with an unexpected houseguest. Isabelle moves a little slowly for a stretch, when Isabelle is nursing the gravely injured Earl of Idsworth. However, it turns into a cracking good time. There are plot twists and kidnappings, carriage chases and heartfelt romance.
The author has written many lovely, old-fashioned passages that I quite enjoyed, like this one: “This was England, and he loved it. Fighting through the Iberian Peninsula had taught him to appreciate the verdure of his native country, even in the grey-green drabness of winter; the smell of damp woods with the leaf litter of beech, oak, and ash; the dark, ploughed loam ready to nurture the next year’s harvest. Only by being effectively exiled from it had he come to realise how much it meant to him.” (p. 76)
I read an advance reader copy of Isabelle from Netgalley, courtesy of Allison & Busby.
Our heroine is Isabelle, recently orphaned and with a sister who might as well be a fairy tale stepsister, she is so resentful of Isabelle. For four years, Isabelle and her father’s faithful valet have assisted her ailing Papa and managed the estate as he declined. Now he is dead, and he had the gall (according to her sister and brother-in-law) to leave his estate to Isabelle. Fortunately, Isabelle has a good-natured cousin to protect her from the dastardly pair and from the patronizing suitor who feels certain she will marry him given enough time.
Isabelle’s father always hosted the Boxing Day hunt, and she eagerly agrees to host without him, to give her something to think about other than her grief. An unfortunate shooting accident leaves Isabelle with an unexpected houseguest. Isabelle moves a little slowly for a stretch, when Isabelle is nursing the gravely injured Earl of Idsworth. However, it turns into a cracking good time. There are plot twists and kidnappings, carriage chases and heartfelt romance.
The author has written many lovely, old-fashioned passages that I quite enjoyed, like this one: “This was England, and he loved it. Fighting through the Iberian Peninsula had taught him to appreciate the verdure of his native country, even in the grey-green drabness of winter; the smell of damp woods with the leaf litter of beech, oak, and ash; the dark, ploughed loam ready to nurture the next year’s harvest. Only by being effectively exiled from it had he come to realise how much it meant to him.” (p. 76)
I read an advance reader copy of Isabelle from Netgalley, courtesy of Allison & Busby.
November 17, 2022
Isabelle Wareham, whilst caring for her beloved widowed father, has not seen much of the world. After his death, Isabelle finds she is no longer her own mistress but under the guardianship of her unscrupulous brother-in-law, Lord Dunsfold, who sees her as a way to improve his own fortunes.
The outlook looks bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished Earl of Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to rise above her circumstances to reach her chance of happiness.
Isabelle isn't ready to wed until an earl changes her mind.
Sophia Holloway has written a good book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
The outlook looks bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished Earl of Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to rise above her circumstances to reach her chance of happiness.
Isabelle isn't ready to wed until an earl changes her mind.
Sophia Holloway has written a good book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
December 13, 2022
Isabelle Wareham has cared for her beloved widowed fatherbut when he dies she finds she's under the guardianship of her unscrupulous brother-in-law, Lord Dunsfold, who sees her as a way to improve his own fortunes as her father left the estate to her. The outlook looks bleak until the Boxing Day hunt throws Isabelle and Julian, the impoverished Earl of Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match.
A delightful read & a very well written one. The characters have depth & were well portrayed some I loved & some I loathed. The pace was steady & held my interest all the way through. I loved both Julian & Isabelle, they were attracted to each other from their first meeting but the road to their HEA was strewn with obstacles & I loved hoe they overcame them I also loved Charlie & hope he has his story. I would have loved an epilogue to round everything off
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A delightful read & a very well written one. The characters have depth & were well portrayed some I loved & some I loathed. The pace was steady & held my interest all the way through. I loved both Julian & Isabelle, they were attracted to each other from their first meeting but the road to their HEA was strewn with obstacles & I loved hoe they overcame them I also loved Charlie & hope he has his story. I would have loved an epilogue to round everything off
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
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January 24, 2023I've enjoyed Sophia Holloway's other Regency romance novels, especially because they're very much in the vein of Georgette Heyer, but I found this one sadly quite slow-paced and a little lacking. Not very much happened until the last 15% of the audio and I just wasn't captivated by the characters.
Content warnings for death of a parent, attempted kidnapping/abduction, period-type sexism, sibling abandonment.
Content warnings for death of a parent, attempted kidnapping/abduction, period-type sexism, sibling abandonment.
December 16, 2022
4,5 stars
A sweet story. Isabella has inherited from her father. Her elder sister is annoyed as is her brother-in-law. Unfortunately Brother-in-law is her guardian as well as her cousin. Sir Charles has invited his friends Molly and Julian down for Christmas. Charles is also a guradian. Though she's in mourning Isabella Still holds the shoot. Her creepy relative Edwin turns up. Edwin wants to marry her for her money. Edwin's a very poor shot and shoots ex soldier Julian who almost dies. Isabella and her father's valet (and batman) nurse Julian back to health.
Meanwhile greedy borther--in-law is still keen to make a profit out of Isabella. I don't think he got punished enough at the donouement but then perhaps Cassandra, Isabella's sister made him suffer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A sweet story. Isabella has inherited from her father. Her elder sister is annoyed as is her brother-in-law. Unfortunately Brother-in-law is her guardian as well as her cousin. Sir Charles has invited his friends Molly and Julian down for Christmas. Charles is also a guradian. Though she's in mourning Isabella Still holds the shoot. Her creepy relative Edwin turns up. Edwin wants to marry her for her money. Edwin's a very poor shot and shoots ex soldier Julian who almost dies. Isabella and her father's valet (and batman) nurse Julian back to health.
Meanwhile greedy borther--in-law is still keen to make a profit out of Isabella. I don't think he got punished enough at the donouement but then perhaps Cassandra, Isabella's sister made him suffer.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2024
Can there really have been people so bad? They abduct a young, innocent girl in order to marry her off to a man she detests. Thank heaven she has some people who love her and need to make sure she is alright when she isn't. I did like this rom-com altho I began to disbelieve that the two men who are in charge of Isabella could be so mean. I suppose these things can happen. Sophia Halloway is a good writer; she can be funny and witty. I enjoy her books. If you like love stories, you will like this one.
January 8, 2024
I was afraid that I wouldn't like this book, since some reviewers said they couldn't get into it. While the first 100 pages of the ebook were a bit of a struggle to get through since there were many character relationships to set up and the two leads had no more than a passing greeting, something told me to push on. And I'm so glad I did, because this was a jewel of a book.
August 24, 2023
I did not get around to reading this book straightaway, but now that I have, I can honestly say that I nearly missed a treat. Set in the “Regency period” much beloved of Georgette Heyer and those who followed, the title character is a young woman who has a steely character – despite her young age and her seeming seclusion. Although probably best described as a historical romance, there is much else to enjoy in this book – including humour and some wonderful characters such as the never pleased Lady Slinford. Holloway demonstrates a wealth of research into such areas as shotgun wounds and the various vehicles that the characters travel in, as well as the clothes appropriate to the female characters and the nature of investments. This research is never allowed to slow the narrative; Holloway always keeps the story moving with surprises as well as the development of events. In this novel the less obvious characters are never discounted; they all have their parts to play in the action and atmosphere of what is a really good story. I truly enjoyed this novel, keen to discover what would happen next, and I was very grateful to have the opportunity to read and review it.
The book begins on a somewhat ominous note. Isabelle has been caring for her much-loved father in their country home while simultaneously running the household and estate of Bradings. Her much older sister Cornelia has never shown her any affection, having been ‘brought out’ into society in the approved manner and accordingly married to the unpleasant Lord Dunsfold. Although mature in many ways, Isabelle is still underage, and is accordingly left under the guardianship of Dunsfold who is bitter that she has been left as sole beneficiary under her father’s will. Fortunately her cousin Charles has been left as co-trustee, and so can prevent Dunsfold’s worse excesses. It is the affable Charles who insists that Isabelle come over to his house for part of Christmas. He has invited two friends who, having been appalled at the continuous complaints of a certain Lady Slinford, contrive a complex mission against her. Isabelle is intrigued by and attracted to former soldier Lord Idsworth, but their acquaintance seems to be destined to be brief until an unfortunate incident changes everything. While there is a definite mutual attraction, circumstances and the ambitions of others mean that they must part.
A lot of the enjoyment of this novel emerges from the characters and how they are developed through the narrative. The Christmas house party, even though briefly attended by Isabelle, is a painfully funny experience as Charles’ sister Julia is courted by a certain Lord Slinford, much to Charles’ despair. The thinly veiled insults from his unpleasant mother and the replies from Isabelle and others are entertaining. I could almost wish that the roles of Charles, Lord Mollington and Idsworth were extended, as they are a good natured and resourceful group, and their contribution is immense. That is not to exclude the unique parts played by other characters in making this a really satisfying novel which I enjoyed reading, keen to find out what happens next. Happily, this is the third Holloway novel I have enjoyed, and I am greatly looking forward to reading more. I really recommend this and her other books as great reads.
The book begins on a somewhat ominous note. Isabelle has been caring for her much-loved father in their country home while simultaneously running the household and estate of Bradings. Her much older sister Cornelia has never shown her any affection, having been ‘brought out’ into society in the approved manner and accordingly married to the unpleasant Lord Dunsfold. Although mature in many ways, Isabelle is still underage, and is accordingly left under the guardianship of Dunsfold who is bitter that she has been left as sole beneficiary under her father’s will. Fortunately her cousin Charles has been left as co-trustee, and so can prevent Dunsfold’s worse excesses. It is the affable Charles who insists that Isabelle come over to his house for part of Christmas. He has invited two friends who, having been appalled at the continuous complaints of a certain Lady Slinford, contrive a complex mission against her. Isabelle is intrigued by and attracted to former soldier Lord Idsworth, but their acquaintance seems to be destined to be brief until an unfortunate incident changes everything. While there is a definite mutual attraction, circumstances and the ambitions of others mean that they must part.
A lot of the enjoyment of this novel emerges from the characters and how they are developed through the narrative. The Christmas house party, even though briefly attended by Isabelle, is a painfully funny experience as Charles’ sister Julia is courted by a certain Lord Slinford, much to Charles’ despair. The thinly veiled insults from his unpleasant mother and the replies from Isabelle and others are entertaining. I could almost wish that the roles of Charles, Lord Mollington and Idsworth were extended, as they are a good natured and resourceful group, and their contribution is immense. That is not to exclude the unique parts played by other characters in making this a really satisfying novel which I enjoyed reading, keen to find out what happens next. Happily, this is the third Holloway novel I have enjoyed, and I am greatly looking forward to reading more. I really recommend this and her other books as great reads.
December 15, 2022
My thanks to Allison & Busby for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘Isabelle’ by Sophia Holloway.
‘Isabelle’ is the second novel by Sophia Holloway that I have read this year and I was so pleased to find it as delightful as ‘The Season’.
As I have long enjoyed the Georgian and Regency romances of Georgette Heyer, it’s always a pleasure to discover new authors who are following in the same tradition of historical romances that are faithful to the traditions and social etiquette of their period setting.
Nineteen-year old Isabelle Wareham has been nursing her widowed father for some time. Following his death Isabelle learns that until she reaches the age of 21, she is under the guardianship of her brother-in-law Lord Dunsfold. He, along with her cousin, Charlie, also control her inheritance until then. Charlie may be a sweetheart but Lord Dunsfold is manipulative and controlling.
Without entering spoiler territory Isabelle desires to make her own decisions about her future. Yet Dunsfold is determined to force her into a marriage that will be advantageous for himself. He is a nasty piece of work who seeks to cut Isabelle off from her friends and allies.
While the ‘heiress in peril’ may be a classic premise of the Regency romance, I felt that Sophia Holloway did well in creating relatable characters that I quickly felt connected to. I so admired Isabelle and each little victory had me cheering her on; while each setback had me worrying that the Dunsfolds’ machinations might well succeed. The closing chapters were certainly page-turners including fun twists and a thrilling carriage chase.
Overall, a delightful, well written traditional Regency romance. There also were moments of humour that made me smile, such as the saga of the Lady, the cat and the sable muff.
I shall definitely be reading more of Sophia Holloway’s writings and recommending them widely.
‘Isabelle’ is the second novel by Sophia Holloway that I have read this year and I was so pleased to find it as delightful as ‘The Season’.
As I have long enjoyed the Georgian and Regency romances of Georgette Heyer, it’s always a pleasure to discover new authors who are following in the same tradition of historical romances that are faithful to the traditions and social etiquette of their period setting.
Nineteen-year old Isabelle Wareham has been nursing her widowed father for some time. Following his death Isabelle learns that until she reaches the age of 21, she is under the guardianship of her brother-in-law Lord Dunsfold. He, along with her cousin, Charlie, also control her inheritance until then. Charlie may be a sweetheart but Lord Dunsfold is manipulative and controlling.
Without entering spoiler territory Isabelle desires to make her own decisions about her future. Yet Dunsfold is determined to force her into a marriage that will be advantageous for himself. He is a nasty piece of work who seeks to cut Isabelle off from her friends and allies.
While the ‘heiress in peril’ may be a classic premise of the Regency romance, I felt that Sophia Holloway did well in creating relatable characters that I quickly felt connected to. I so admired Isabelle and each little victory had me cheering her on; while each setback had me worrying that the Dunsfolds’ machinations might well succeed. The closing chapters were certainly page-turners including fun twists and a thrilling carriage chase.
Overall, a delightful, well written traditional Regency romance. There also were moments of humour that made me smile, such as the saga of the Lady, the cat and the sable muff.
I shall definitely be reading more of Sophia Holloway’s writings and recommending them widely.
June 9, 2023
Isabelle Wareham’s difficult relationship with her sister is exacerbated by the death of their father. The elder Cornelia, already planning refurbishments to Bladings, the family manse, is incensed that the Will leaves everything to Isabelle, who had looked after Col. Wareham since his seizure. Isabelle is aggravated to find that her brother-in-law viscount Charles Dunsfold, is now her legal guardian.
She decides, despite mourning, to host the annual Boxing Day hunt at Bladings as was her father’s tradition. And she is determined to hold the Twelfth Night shoot, as well. Her cousin Julia accepts the proposal of Lord Slinfold, so, one of the bachelors is out of the running. Lord Idsworth is wounded at the shoot, and Isabelle nurses him back to health.
The tension is light. The ins and outs of aristocratic English high society are daunting. What is appropriate? What is not? Are men flirting with her, or just being gracious? Fortunately, Lady Taynton takes her under her wing.
Local squire Edwin Semington seems sure Isabelle will marry him, a match favoured by Lord Dunsfold, but she is more attracted to the penniless Lord Idsworth. As Dunsfold and Semington plot to force her hand, Lady Taynton and Idsworth plot to rescue her.
The similarity of names—Charles Slinfold/Charles Wareham; Slinfold/Dunsfold—is unfortunate, but there are not too many characters to keep track of.
This is a Regency romance ‘in the style of Georgette Heyer’. I don’t know Heyer, but there seemed to be a bit of the Bridgerton and a bit of the Upstairs, Downstairs (but mostly Upstairs) and with the antics of young toffs Sir Charles Wareham, Lord Idsworth, Lord ‘Molly’ Mollerton and the indefatigable butler Mumby in their hunt for the rat and/or Lady Slinfold’s muff, a bit of the PG Wodehouse. An easy read.
This review first appeared in Historical Novels Review.
She decides, despite mourning, to host the annual Boxing Day hunt at Bladings as was her father’s tradition. And she is determined to hold the Twelfth Night shoot, as well. Her cousin Julia accepts the proposal of Lord Slinfold, so, one of the bachelors is out of the running. Lord Idsworth is wounded at the shoot, and Isabelle nurses him back to health.
The tension is light. The ins and outs of aristocratic English high society are daunting. What is appropriate? What is not? Are men flirting with her, or just being gracious? Fortunately, Lady Taynton takes her under her wing.
Local squire Edwin Semington seems sure Isabelle will marry him, a match favoured by Lord Dunsfold, but she is more attracted to the penniless Lord Idsworth. As Dunsfold and Semington plot to force her hand, Lady Taynton and Idsworth plot to rescue her.
The similarity of names—Charles Slinfold/Charles Wareham; Slinfold/Dunsfold—is unfortunate, but there are not too many characters to keep track of.
This is a Regency romance ‘in the style of Georgette Heyer’. I don’t know Heyer, but there seemed to be a bit of the Bridgerton and a bit of the Upstairs, Downstairs (but mostly Upstairs) and with the antics of young toffs Sir Charles Wareham, Lord Idsworth, Lord ‘Molly’ Mollerton and the indefatigable butler Mumby in their hunt for the rat and/or Lady Slinfold’s muff, a bit of the PG Wodehouse. An easy read.
This review first appeared in Historical Novels Review.
December 12, 2022
Isabelle has been motherless virtually from birth (a loss for which her sister has never forgiven her). When her father dies before Isabelle comes of age, following a long illness that prevented her from being presented, she is left to the guardianship of her unscrupulous brother-in-law Lord Dunsfold - who is most upset that she has inherited the estate he expected to receive. A chance encounter with her cousin's friend the Earl of Idsworth shows her a happiness greater than she ever expected, but Lord Dunsfold will do anything in his power to get his own way. Can Isabelle escape Lord Dunsfold's machinations and find her hoped-for happily ever after?
I feel like each book I read by this author is better than the last - which is a dangerously high bar to set! However, this didn't disappoint. Definitely reminiscent of some of Heyer's books (though possibly with a little less humour than some?), this is clean and well written, with characters I enjoyed getting to know and even a good pair of villains. I appreciated the way that the earl wanted what was best for Isabelle and therefore held back, but didn't try to make all the decisions for her. And yes, his way of dealing with the villains was definitely satisfying! I very quickly came to feel for the main characters, and was glad to see Isabelle and Idsworth get their happy ending. Does Charles get a story next? Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
I feel like each book I read by this author is better than the last - which is a dangerously high bar to set! However, this didn't disappoint. Definitely reminiscent of some of Heyer's books (though possibly with a little less humour than some?), this is clean and well written, with characters I enjoyed getting to know and even a good pair of villains. I appreciated the way that the earl wanted what was best for Isabelle and therefore held back, but didn't try to make all the decisions for her. And yes, his way of dealing with the villains was definitely satisfying! I very quickly came to feel for the main characters, and was glad to see Isabelle and Idsworth get their happy ending. Does Charles get a story next? Recommended.
Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.
December 13, 2022
Isabelle is the sweet, romantic tale Regency lovers have been waiting for. With shades of Jane Austen, the characters come alive with their demureness, ridiculousness, and wickedness. There is someone for everyone to love and to loathe.
When her father dies after a long illness, Isabelle is alone and left to discover what will become of her when her nefarious brother-in-law and the sister that never loved her take over her guardianship. Her cousin Charlie, who lives nearby, will not let anything happen to the estate she has inherited and dearly loves. Then she meets the one person who could take all her worries away. Except, he is an impoverished Earl who is just back from his stint in the military. Theirs is a forbidden love that you will root for the entirety of the tale.
Sophia Holloway has done an amazing job of pulling the reader into the Regency world to where we never want to leave. When reading these romantic novels, I can easily envision myself in the middle of the drawing rooms and carriages, watching events unfold as if they truly are happening around me. It is a great escape, and Ms. Holloway is commended for offering such an experience. I look forward to more escape through her writing in the future.
Thank you Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the digital ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
When her father dies after a long illness, Isabelle is alone and left to discover what will become of her when her nefarious brother-in-law and the sister that never loved her take over her guardianship. Her cousin Charlie, who lives nearby, will not let anything happen to the estate she has inherited and dearly loves. Then she meets the one person who could take all her worries away. Except, he is an impoverished Earl who is just back from his stint in the military. Theirs is a forbidden love that you will root for the entirety of the tale.
Sophia Holloway has done an amazing job of pulling the reader into the Regency world to where we never want to leave. When reading these romantic novels, I can easily envision myself in the middle of the drawing rooms and carriages, watching events unfold as if they truly are happening around me. It is a great escape, and Ms. Holloway is commended for offering such an experience. I look forward to more escape through her writing in the future.
Thank you Allison & Busby and NetGalley for the digital ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 14, 2022
I have recently started reading Ms. Holloway's books and have really been enjoying them and this one also did not disappoint. The story was well-written and quite captivating.
Isabel is recently orphaned and finds herself now under the guardianship of her wicked brother-in-law, Lord Dunsfold. When Isabelle decides to host the Boxing Day Hunt as her father used to, she meets Julian, an impoverished earl, who gets injured in the hunt. Julian becomes her unexpected houseguest as she nurses him back to health.
A romance begins to blossom between them, but her brother-in-law has other ideas for her future that will benefit him. These two have many challenges and obstacles thrown their way before reaching a happy conclusion.
The characters were well-defined and had such great depth and personalities. Thee author did a great job in creating some characters you truly love and some you can't help but hate. Julian and Isabelle were such a wonderful couple, I loved their interactions and seeing them together. This was a delightful and charming story and I am glad to have had the opportunity to read it.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Isabel is recently orphaned and finds herself now under the guardianship of her wicked brother-in-law, Lord Dunsfold. When Isabelle decides to host the Boxing Day Hunt as her father used to, she meets Julian, an impoverished earl, who gets injured in the hunt. Julian becomes her unexpected houseguest as she nurses him back to health.
A romance begins to blossom between them, but her brother-in-law has other ideas for her future that will benefit him. These two have many challenges and obstacles thrown their way before reaching a happy conclusion.
The characters were well-defined and had such great depth and personalities. Thee author did a great job in creating some characters you truly love and some you can't help but hate. Julian and Isabelle were such a wonderful couple, I loved their interactions and seeing them together. This was a delightful and charming story and I am glad to have had the opportunity to read it.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
February 23, 2023
Our heroine is Isabelle, recently orphaned and with a sister who might as well be a fairy tale stepsister, she is so resentful of Isabelle. For four years, Isabelle and her father’s faithful valet have assisted her ailing Papa and managed the estate as he declined. Now he is dead, and he had the gall (according to her sister and brother-in-law) to leave his estate to Isabelle. Fortunately, Isabelle has a good-natured cousin to protect her from the dastardly pair and from the patronizing suitor who feels certain she will marry him given enough time.
Isabelle’s father always hosted the Boxing Day hunt, and she eagerly agrees to host without him, to give her something to think about other than her grief. An unfortunate shooting accident leaves Isabelle with an unexpected houseguest. Isabelle moves a little slowly for a stretch when Isabelle is nursing the gravely injured Earl of Idsworth. However, it turns into a cracking enjoyable time. There are plot twists and kidnappings, carriage chases and heartfelt romance.
Isabelle’s father always hosted the Boxing Day hunt, and she eagerly agrees to host without him, to give her something to think about other than her grief. An unfortunate shooting accident leaves Isabelle with an unexpected houseguest. Isabelle moves a little slowly for a stretch when Isabelle is nursing the gravely injured Earl of Idsworth. However, it turns into a cracking enjoyable time. There are plot twists and kidnappings, carriage chases and heartfelt romance.
December 13, 2022
This really was such a delightful read. The two main characters of Isabelle Wareham and Julian, Earl of Idsworth were very engaging characters. Isabelle, although only 19 yrs old, was quite mature for her age, due to her past circumstances. She was a very caring person but could also be determined. Julian, was an honourable man, but due to an unfortunate event, had joined the army for a period of 10 years. There was almost an instant attraction that only grew as they got to know each other. However, nothing runs smoothly, as despicable relatives plan on working things out for their own advantage. There are a few surprises along the way and certainly one person had his comeuppance, which was quite amusing. I would have liked an epilogue as this would have rounded things off nicely. But, really I just didn’t want it to end! I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 16, 2022
Isabelle has been caring for her ill father most of her life, staying on the estate and not being presented or venturing in to society. After his death, she fully believes she will inherit the estate and life will continue as normal - however, he passed before she's of age and her brother-in-law is left in charge. He moves her out of her home and proceeds to match make with prominent men hoping to benefit himself. However, Isabelle has fallen in love with someone else, a lesser match but one for love. She has to fight for her home and her love.
It's an interesting romance, with a lot of turns - well written characters you'll root for - and the descriptions are so clear you'll believe you are right in the story as you read it.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
It's an interesting romance, with a lot of turns - well written characters you'll root for - and the descriptions are so clear you'll believe you are right in the story as you read it.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.
November 16, 2022
It was slow going for me but I really enjoyed this story. Isabelle has had to put her life on hold and do the hardest task, of taking care of her father and watch him get sicker and sicker. Once he passes, she has to not only move on with her life, but she has to have a season. The outlook looks bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished Earl of Idsworth together. Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to fight for her chance of happiness. Highly recommendable great read. I would love to read more from this author. You will enjoy watching their journey to their happily ever after. This is my honest review, for I received an advanced copy for NetGalley.
November 27, 2022
After the death of her father, Isabelle is glad to have someone to care for when a family friend is shot on her property. Soon a love begins to bloom between the two. Her brother-in-law, and guardian, as well as a miscreant “friend” have other ideas for Isabelle’s future.
I love how she keeps hope even through her trials and isolation. All of the characters are well developed. I think I would have liked more dialogue, most of the story takes place in the minds of the characters or actions. The only thing that truly bothered me is that something that her brother-in-law did in the past is alluded to and we get reactions from those that hear of it but never find out what it was he did. Other than that, it was a great story!
I love how she keeps hope even through her trials and isolation. All of the characters are well developed. I think I would have liked more dialogue, most of the story takes place in the minds of the characters or actions. The only thing that truly bothered me is that something that her brother-in-law did in the past is alluded to and we get reactions from those that hear of it but never find out what it was he did. Other than that, it was a great story!
December 6, 2022
A great read from an author I am unfamiliar with. I love how Isabelle keeps positive even through her trials and isolation. All of the characters are well developed. and likeable and the villains are as sleazy as expected. I will be searching out more books by this author and hope to read Charlie's HEA.. The only negative I could mention would be it did seem to drag a bit more than it needed to but still an enjoyable read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 14, 2022
I have to say the book has given me moments of smiling to myself from behind the pages or shock from the villains who try their hand at kidnapping, and I'm delighted to tell you Isabelle gets her happy ever after even though it takes lots of attempts to get there.
If you love historical romance and a few giggles then give it a try.
I was offered a digital copy of this book from the publishers, however I prefer paper copies so I held out to wait for my local library to get it in for me yesterday.
If you love historical romance and a few giggles then give it a try.
I was offered a digital copy of this book from the publishers, however I prefer paper copies so I held out to wait for my local library to get it in for me yesterday.
August 18, 2023
I enjoyed this more than many of the books I've read in this genre. I found the part with the cat to be rather silly, but on the whole, I liked the main characters, found the villains believably villainous, and found the supporting characters to be entertaining. It was also nice to have a hero who wasn't a reformed/reforming rake. It is a bit longer than some novels in this genre, but I generally didn't find the pace to be too slow, and I liked that the relationship between the main characters had a little more time to develop than it sometimes does.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
didn-t-finish
July 4, 2024Isabelle Wareham, whilst caring for her beloved widowed father, has not seen much of the world. After his death, Isabelle finds she is no longer her own mistress but under the guardianship of her unscrupulous brother-in-law, Lord Dunsfold, who sees her as a way to improve his own fortunes.
The outlook looks bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished Earl of Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to rise above her circumstances to reach her chance of happiness.
The outlook looks bleak until events throw Isabelle and the impoverished Earl of Idsworth together. However, Dunsfold is determined to force her into a more lucrative match and Isabelle will need to rise above her circumstances to reach her chance of happiness.
November 19, 2022
4.5 stars
I loved the characters- the MC, FMC, and Charlie. They were all so easy to love.
1/2 star deducted just because the ending ran on a little. (That may have been mainly because I was not patient lol) I must say though that even at 80% I knew it would have a happy ending and the MC would save the day but I didn't know how he was going to work it out.
Holloway did a great job making the sleazy characters sleazy. And now I want to see Charlie have a happy ending. ☺
I loved the characters- the MC, FMC, and Charlie. They were all so easy to love.
1/2 star deducted just because the ending ran on a little. (That may have been mainly because I was not patient lol) I must say though that even at 80% I knew it would have a happy ending and the MC would save the day but I didn't know how he was going to work it out.
Holloway did a great job making the sleazy characters sleazy. And now I want to see Charlie have a happy ending. ☺
December 11, 2022
I had fun and thoroughly enjoyed this historical romance that reminded me of Georgette Heyer.
The plot flows and I root for Isabelle and hoped she was able to escape the villain's plots.
Sophie Holloway is a good storyteller, the characters are well developed and the plot entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
The plot flows and I root for Isabelle and hoped she was able to escape the villain's plots.
Sophie Holloway is a good storyteller, the characters are well developed and the plot entertaining.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
December 16, 2022
A gorgeous and fully immersive story with a sweet love story bubbling at the heart of this.
Took me a while to get into this, but once I was, it was simply unputdownable. A glorious story with a sweet heroine, and an even braver hero. The chemistry just beamed off the page, and I loved seeing their story unfold.
Just lovely.
Took me a while to get into this, but once I was, it was simply unputdownable. A glorious story with a sweet heroine, and an even braver hero. The chemistry just beamed off the page, and I loved seeing their story unfold.
Just lovely.
March 17, 2024
The Disrobed Villain
What a lovely, charming story. Idsworth makes a great hero, a soldier of passionate heart, honor and commitment. And sweet Isabelle. So brave and strong in her love. I loved reading Celia. And Isabelle too. I often am disappointed reading another book in the series. But this did not disappoint.
What a lovely, charming story. Idsworth makes a great hero, a soldier of passionate heart, honor and commitment. And sweet Isabelle. So brave and strong in her love. I loved reading Celia. And Isabelle too. I often am disappointed reading another book in the series. But this did not disappoint.
January 29, 2025
What a Fun and Clever Read!
Isabelle is a wonderfully written book with its quick and witty dialogue and great characters.- some you root for and others you boo. It’s definitely a page-turner with great Regency details that make it even better. Sophia Holloway has penned another charmer!
Isabelle is a wonderfully written book with its quick and witty dialogue and great characters.- some you root for and others you boo. It’s definitely a page-turner with great Regency details that make it even better. Sophia Holloway has penned another charmer!
December 20, 2022
A lovely regency romance in the style of Georgette Heyer. Witty and romantic. I adored the characters. Isabelle was independent and caring and Lord Idsworth was dashing, charming and heroic. Just a gloriously written regency romance.
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