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Fernley Family #3
The Archaeologist and the Spinster
When love arrives on a camel, who knew it would be oblivious to flirting?
Self-proclaimed bachelor for life Phineas Fernley has dreamed of exploring the world since the day he found a book on archaeology hidden on the shelves of his father’s library. Armed with books and his personal journal Phineas sets out to add his knowledge to the world of ancient artifacts. His one true desire is to walk into a Pharaoh’s death chamber and discover the treasure within.
Living in the Egyptian desert was supposed to be temporary for Lady Adelia Winthrop and her father. After three years in Egypt, Adelia is no closer to convincing her father to return to England. As a spinster, all hope for a husband seems to be lost until a handsome gentleman arrives covered in sand and spit, riding upon an ornery camel.
Determined to fulfill their dreams, Adelia and Phineas set out on separate adventures. Phineas finds happiness at a dig site in the Valley of the Kings while Adelia shamelessly flirts, with the goal of making a match. When all hope seems lost, instead of giving up and accepting defeat, Adelia makes a request of a mythological goddess. To achieve their goals, she needs Phineas to notice her, and he needs Adelia to stop enchanting his every thought.
The Archaeologist and the Spinster is a stand-alone novel in this series by author Angela Johnson. This is a sweet Regency-era romance.
Self-proclaimed bachelor for life Phineas Fernley has dreamed of exploring the world since the day he found a book on archaeology hidden on the shelves of his father’s library. Armed with books and his personal journal Phineas sets out to add his knowledge to the world of ancient artifacts. His one true desire is to walk into a Pharaoh’s death chamber and discover the treasure within.
Living in the Egyptian desert was supposed to be temporary for Lady Adelia Winthrop and her father. After three years in Egypt, Adelia is no closer to convincing her father to return to England. As a spinster, all hope for a husband seems to be lost until a handsome gentleman arrives covered in sand and spit, riding upon an ornery camel.
Determined to fulfill their dreams, Adelia and Phineas set out on separate adventures. Phineas finds happiness at a dig site in the Valley of the Kings while Adelia shamelessly flirts, with the goal of making a match. When all hope seems lost, instead of giving up and accepting defeat, Adelia makes a request of a mythological goddess. To achieve their goals, she needs Phineas to notice her, and he needs Adelia to stop enchanting his every thought.
The Archaeologist and the Spinster is a stand-alone novel in this series by author Angela Johnson. This is a sweet Regency-era romance.
250 pages, ebook
Published February 7, 2023
82 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
About the author
Angela E. Johnson
62 books96 followersAngela Johnson has a love of literature and all things Regency. Traveling and reading are favorite past times and help her form ideas for writing. Angela despises the snow when it is on the road, but loves snow when it falls romantically in the perfect scene for characters to fall in love. Be sure to follow Angela on BookBub for the latest releases and sales. https://tinyurl.com/5n6rkytm
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
June 9, 2023
What stands out is how well written this book is. The descriptions of the Egyptian landscape are beautiful and will have readers feeling the sand between their toes.
Read full review in the 2023 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2023 June issue of InD'tale Magazine.
March 1, 2025
Eh. I was bored and didn't care for either MC, nor their "romance", which was pretty much MIA. Yes this was closed door but that's not what I mean.
July 4, 2023
A young man seeking adventure, a tenacious spinster, an exotic Egyptian setting, and one ornery camel made this unique, enjoyable Regency romance hard to put down. Phineas Fernley has dreamed of going to Egypt since he was a little boy. When he finally has the opportunity to venture there on an archeological expedition, he finds it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. His first day in the country he’s faced with a spitting, obstinate camel and lots of sand. Luckily, there’s another Englishman archeologist there with a beautiful daughter who can show him the ropes. But, will his single mindedness in discovering Egyptian artifacts prevent him from following his heart?
Lady Adelia Winthrop never wanted to stay in Egypt. She misses England and her lost opportunity for a season. Though she’s considered a spinster from a shear lack of suitable men, her beauty and intelligence make her a prime catch. She finally believes her oblivious, uncaring father has brought her a perfect match when Mr. Fernley arrives. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Adelia isn’t ready to give up though. She’s determined to find a way to get Mr. Fernley to fall in love with her including allowing her maid to summon all the appropriate Egyptian gods to make it happen. But when her wishes seem to come true, can she trust that Phineas’ love is real?
As someone who’s always been fascinated by Egyptian artifacts and culture, I was excited to read a Regency romance set there. I enjoyed learning more about the ancient religious customs & superstitions as well as early archeological digs. The romance with a hint of mystery completely drew me in. I enjoyed how Adelia & Phineas both grew throughout and learned to want what was best for the other. The camel Nefertiti was hilarious and often stole the show with her antics. The whole Fernley family is adorable and I can’t wait to read more of their adventures.
Definitely recommend this fun, sweet, Regency romance! Though it’s part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens, but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
Lady Adelia Winthrop never wanted to stay in Egypt. She misses England and her lost opportunity for a season. Though she’s considered a spinster from a shear lack of suitable men, her beauty and intelligence make her a prime catch. She finally believes her oblivious, uncaring father has brought her a perfect match when Mr. Fernley arrives. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Adelia isn’t ready to give up though. She’s determined to find a way to get Mr. Fernley to fall in love with her including allowing her maid to summon all the appropriate Egyptian gods to make it happen. But when her wishes seem to come true, can she trust that Phineas’ love is real?
As someone who’s always been fascinated by Egyptian artifacts and culture, I was excited to read a Regency romance set there. I enjoyed learning more about the ancient religious customs & superstitions as well as early archeological digs. The romance with a hint of mystery completely drew me in. I enjoyed how Adelia & Phineas both grew throughout and learned to want what was best for the other. The camel Nefertiti was hilarious and often stole the show with her antics. The whole Fernley family is adorable and I can’t wait to read more of their adventures.
Definitely recommend this fun, sweet, Regency romance! Though it’s part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens, but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
February 6, 2023
Phineas Fernley has dreamed his whole life of being an archaeologist. Finally, his dream is coming true and he is in his way to the Valley of the Kings. When he finds a fellow Englishman who is in charge of a dig, he feels like he is finally on his way. But the life of an archaeologist is not as glamorous or exciting as Phineas thought. Plus, his host has a spinster daughter who is not as old or plain as Phineas had assumed.
Adelia Winthrop followed her widowed father to Egypt, and is desperate to return home to England. When Phineas arrives, she is sure her father has found her a husband. She quickly realizes she is wrong, but finds herself drawn to Phineas.
One thing that was prominent in this novel was the idea that dreams can change. This theme is relatable to anyone who has ever struggled with changing dreams. This is something that many people have to go through, and seeing this struggle play out in the story is refreshing.
In one way, this book was difficult to read. Adelia is treated pretty horribly by her father and brother. Her insecurities are understandable, and so are her reactions to different events. This does not not make it any less uncomfortable to read, however.
Despite that, it is a romance and therefore you get to watch Phineas and Adelia fall in love slowly. They are both awkward in different ways. Adelia can't flirt and Phineas is determined to be a traveling archaeologist. Their gradual romance is adorable.
The Archaeologist and the Spinster deals with grief, betrayal, the importance of knowing about the culture you're living in, and the ethics of archaeology. Although the field has drastically changed today, at the time the novel is set, archaeology was more like tomb raiding. The Egyptian characters bring this up several times.
You don't need to have read the other books in the Fernley Family Series to understand the plot of this novel, but it does add some context to Phineas' life. Hopefully, other adventures with the Fernley Family are coming soon!
If you are a fan of clean romance, period dramas, or archaeology in fiction, The Archaeologist and the Spinster is a book to check out.
I received a copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.
Adelia Winthrop followed her widowed father to Egypt, and is desperate to return home to England. When Phineas arrives, she is sure her father has found her a husband. She quickly realizes she is wrong, but finds herself drawn to Phineas.
One thing that was prominent in this novel was the idea that dreams can change. This theme is relatable to anyone who has ever struggled with changing dreams. This is something that many people have to go through, and seeing this struggle play out in the story is refreshing.
In one way, this book was difficult to read. Adelia is treated pretty horribly by her father and brother. Her insecurities are understandable, and so are her reactions to different events. This does not not make it any less uncomfortable to read, however.
Despite that, it is a romance and therefore you get to watch Phineas and Adelia fall in love slowly. They are both awkward in different ways. Adelia can't flirt and Phineas is determined to be a traveling archaeologist. Their gradual romance is adorable.
The Archaeologist and the Spinster deals with grief, betrayal, the importance of knowing about the culture you're living in, and the ethics of archaeology. Although the field has drastically changed today, at the time the novel is set, archaeology was more like tomb raiding. The Egyptian characters bring this up several times.
You don't need to have read the other books in the Fernley Family Series to understand the plot of this novel, but it does add some context to Phineas' life. Hopefully, other adventures with the Fernley Family are coming soon!
If you are a fan of clean romance, period dramas, or archaeology in fiction, The Archaeologist and the Spinster is a book to check out.
I received a copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.
January 23, 2023
Four things I loved about this book:
1. Adelia's personality. She was tenacious and refused to give up on Phineas.
2. Phineas's love for travel. I feel that same yearning and I would love to go to Egypt. Maybe I'll get there someday.
3. The use of Egyptian gods I had personally never heard of before. I had to look up Hathor and Mut. I found this part of the book super interesting.
4. The love story between Adelia and Phineas. I think they are my favorite of Johnson's books so far. I loved how their connection built and how they really worked hard at falling in love.
This was a fabulous book. I'm sad it is over, but I can't wait for the next one.
*** I received an ARC copy of this book. I was not required to leave a review. The comments above are my thoughts and feelings and were not swayed by anyone else.
*** Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC copy.
1. Adelia's personality. She was tenacious and refused to give up on Phineas.
2. Phineas's love for travel. I feel that same yearning and I would love to go to Egypt. Maybe I'll get there someday.
3. The use of Egyptian gods I had personally never heard of before. I had to look up Hathor and Mut. I found this part of the book super interesting.
4. The love story between Adelia and Phineas. I think they are my favorite of Johnson's books so far. I loved how their connection built and how they really worked hard at falling in love.
This was a fabulous book. I'm sad it is over, but I can't wait for the next one.
*** I received an ARC copy of this book. I was not required to leave a review. The comments above are my thoughts and feelings and were not swayed by anyone else.
*** Thank you to the author/publisher for the ARC copy.
March 9, 2023
I liked the premise of the book and appreciated that it didn’t spend the whole time in Egypt. What I didn’t like as much was how long the end conflict dragged on. It made it hard to want to finish the book and then the ending didn’t feel worth the dragged out conflict. I also felt that Adeila wasn’t a consistent character. He saw her as being so kind and wonderful but I didn’t feel like we got to see that. This book had some tropes I enjoy and I liked that it traveled around. I enjoyed the time period and the happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2023
*This review is based on an ARC received from BookSirens*
4 STARS!!!
My first book by this author, The Archaeologist and the Spinster was an enjoyable read. It read quick and easy and left a pleasant feeling behind. The book (as is obvious from the title) is about a spinster who doesn't want to be one and an archeologist who DOES want to be one (an archeologist) but isn't very successful at it. Adelia, through a mix of desperate measures to be flirty and sacrificing to the Egyptian Gods, tries to get Phineas to fall in love with her and most importantly, get her back to England, where she longs to be. Phineas, in the meanwhile, just wants his camel to behave.
My favorite part of the story was the time on the boat. But the rest of it is funny, heart warming and engaging, too.
Just one thing that I have to point out - The writing style has a don't-take-me-seriously vibe, which is what saved it from sounding borderline xenophobic in parts!
Thanks to BookSirens, the publisher and the author for the ARC!
4 STARS!!!
My first book by this author, The Archaeologist and the Spinster was an enjoyable read. It read quick and easy and left a pleasant feeling behind. The book (as is obvious from the title) is about a spinster who doesn't want to be one and an archeologist who DOES want to be one (an archeologist) but isn't very successful at it. Adelia, through a mix of desperate measures to be flirty and sacrificing to the Egyptian Gods, tries to get Phineas to fall in love with her and most importantly, get her back to England, where she longs to be. Phineas, in the meanwhile, just wants his camel to behave.
My favorite part of the story was the time on the boat. But the rest of it is funny, heart warming and engaging, too.
Just one thing that I have to point out - The writing style has a don't-take-me-seriously vibe, which is what saved it from sounding borderline xenophobic in parts!
Thanks to BookSirens, the publisher and the author for the ARC!
January 8, 2024
Anachronisms galore. The setting was 1812, yet characters referred to visiting "Israel" and "Myanmar," for example. With each passing page, the editing became more slipshod, and everything sounded increasingly modern and American. First-rate Regency novels require, among other things, copious research, a rigorous editor, and constructive beta readers (ideally British ones with historical backgrounds) whose criticism will help to shape an authentic period voice and a show-not-tell narrative—not simply rubber-stamp it. A particularly egregious typo: "Honor they [sic] father and they [sic] mother," not to mention that in a Regency novel, "honor" should have been "honour." Having said all of this, I certainly think that Ms. Johnson has the potential to become a much better writer, and it's frustrating to see the potential wasted.
February 23, 2023
I had very high hopes for this book, because I saw it took place in Egypt, and the story was very good. But then it dragged on because so many non-issues became issues. I felt like about 1/4 of the book was superfluous non-issues. But I would read the next book in the series. I am enjoying it!
February 6, 2023
I LOVE the books in the Fernley Family series, and they keep getting better and better with each release. In The Archaeologist and the Spinster, we get to dive into Phineas's romance, and it is delightful, heart wrenching at times and downright sweet.
As the romance of Phineas should, it includes pieces of Egyptian history that carry the story along so beautifully as we get introduced to Lady Adelia in a land far from the comforts of England. You've got a delightful, stubborn heroine in Lady Adelia who knows what she wants. A handsome hero who may seem aloof, but just has a laser focus on his dreams and making them a reality. In addition to these two wonderful characters, you've got the ones that stress you out, the ones who add to the twists and turns, a neglectful father who will break your heart, the intense desert heat, finicky camels and hilarious attempts and flirting that make for a great read.
An aspect that I really loved with this story is the character development. Phineas and Adelia both have a lot of growing up to do, they both have a lot of sacrifices they have to make. But, they also have so much more to discover about themselves and each other if they just embrace who they are and how much stronger they are together. Their story is beautiful and the emotions they go through when becoming a couple are real and felt by the readers. Maybe even experienced by the readers and that makes this story that much more enduring, meaningful and rich. This story takes an important look at what marriage means and can do for a couple if they just give it a chance. It is truly beautiful reading how their story comes together.
I love that these books give us small glimpses into the other brothers of the family. Each book gets me more and more excited for the next. Love the Fernley men! Wonderful job with this one Angela Johnson!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or author. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
As the romance of Phineas should, it includes pieces of Egyptian history that carry the story along so beautifully as we get introduced to Lady Adelia in a land far from the comforts of England. You've got a delightful, stubborn heroine in Lady Adelia who knows what she wants. A handsome hero who may seem aloof, but just has a laser focus on his dreams and making them a reality. In addition to these two wonderful characters, you've got the ones that stress you out, the ones who add to the twists and turns, a neglectful father who will break your heart, the intense desert heat, finicky camels and hilarious attempts and flirting that make for a great read.
An aspect that I really loved with this story is the character development. Phineas and Adelia both have a lot of growing up to do, they both have a lot of sacrifices they have to make. But, they also have so much more to discover about themselves and each other if they just embrace who they are and how much stronger they are together. Their story is beautiful and the emotions they go through when becoming a couple are real and felt by the readers. Maybe even experienced by the readers and that makes this story that much more enduring, meaningful and rich. This story takes an important look at what marriage means and can do for a couple if they just give it a chance. It is truly beautiful reading how their story comes together.
I love that these books give us small glimpses into the other brothers of the family. Each book gets me more and more excited for the next. Love the Fernley men! Wonderful job with this one Angela Johnson!
*I received a complimentary copy from the publishers, publicists, and/or author. A review was not required, and all opinions are my own.
March 17, 2023
The Archaeologist and the Spinster was a fun read. In some ways, it was very run-of-the-mill regency romance, while in others, it was totally unique.
The primary setting of the novel was very unique. This is the only regency romance I've ever read that was set in Egypt, and it was a refreshing change from the usual. It was interesting to experience a bit of the fascination that the English of this era had with historical artifacts from cultures they viewed as 'exotic' while simultaenously viewing the civilization of said 'exotic' culture as barbaric. I really enjoyed how Johnson included that in the novel. It was well balanced -- just enough to give depth to the story without being overly heavy. I also enjoyed how Adelia's road to spinsterhood was different than the usual. She'd left English society before being truly a spinster and therefore truly became a spinster due to total lack of suitable suitors before Phineas' arrival. I also enjoyed that Phineas had a unique reason for being set on bachelorhood, and his gradual realization that maybe bachelorhood wasn't all he'd thought it would be.
The character development throughout the novel was a bit choppy. I could always see where Phineas and Adelia's respective character development was going, but at times that character development moved forward in a sudden lurch, and got bogged down in a rut at other times. I also felt that the actions of some of the other characters were driven solely by the needs of the plot, rather than actual motives from the characters themselves. I can't go into too much detail without many spoilers, but Huntly and Carlin in particular were not believable characters. I did really enjoy the Fernley family, however -- they so clearly and realistically love each other!
Overall, I enjoyed the book, and I intend to read the others in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The primary setting of the novel was very unique. This is the only regency romance I've ever read that was set in Egypt, and it was a refreshing change from the usual. It was interesting to experience a bit of the fascination that the English of this era had with historical artifacts from cultures they viewed as 'exotic' while simultaenously viewing the civilization of said 'exotic' culture as barbaric. I really enjoyed how Johnson included that in the novel. It was well balanced -- just enough to give depth to the story without being overly heavy. I also enjoyed how Adelia's road to spinsterhood was different than the usual. She'd left English society before being truly a spinster and therefore truly became a spinster due to total lack of suitable suitors before Phineas' arrival. I also enjoyed that Phineas had a unique reason for being set on bachelorhood, and his gradual realization that maybe bachelorhood wasn't all he'd thought it would be.
The character development throughout the novel was a bit choppy. I could always see where Phineas and Adelia's respective character development was going, but at times that character development moved forward in a sudden lurch, and got bogged down in a rut at other times. I also felt that the actions of some of the other characters were driven solely by the needs of the plot, rather than actual motives from the characters themselves. I can't go into too much detail without many spoilers, but Huntly and Carlin in particular were not believable characters. I did really enjoy the Fernley family, however -- they so clearly and realistically love each other!
Overall, I enjoyed the book, and I intend to read the others in the series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 28, 2023
In The Archaeologist and The Spinster we have a Regency Romance set in Egypt which makes for a more interesting read than the typical Regency. It allowed the characters to expand a bit beyond the confining societal conventions of England and let the reader get to know them beyond their superficial expected roles. The focus on Egyptian culture, particularly religion, and archeological exploration at that time were particularly interesting. The inclusion of an ill tempered camel, Nefertiti, was appreciated.
Three years ago Lady Adelia accompanied her widowed father Huntly, an archeologist, to live in Egypt resulting in her being out of society in England and missing her opportunity for an appropriate marriage. Phineas Fernley has come to Egypt with unrealistic dreams of unearthing a tomb giving him wealth and status and most of all feeding his lifelong desire for adventure. He is mentored by Huntly. Adelia, who is totally bored with life in Egypt, feels her options are to convince her brother to come and take her back to England or to get Phineas to fall in love with her and ask her father’s permission to marry her. Neither plan seems to have much potential. With at times rather agonizing slowness in the first 50% of the book, things progress to a point where an unusual event occurs. This event was the turning point and the rest of the book held my interest.
The only thing that became annoying was the amount of repetition portraying the main characters insecurities.
Overall it was an enjoyable read with many touching moments and a few humorous ones.
Thank you to the author, Angela Johnson, the publisher, Pemberly Publishing, and BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review an ARC.
Three years ago Lady Adelia accompanied her widowed father Huntly, an archeologist, to live in Egypt resulting in her being out of society in England and missing her opportunity for an appropriate marriage. Phineas Fernley has come to Egypt with unrealistic dreams of unearthing a tomb giving him wealth and status and most of all feeding his lifelong desire for adventure. He is mentored by Huntly. Adelia, who is totally bored with life in Egypt, feels her options are to convince her brother to come and take her back to England or to get Phineas to fall in love with her and ask her father’s permission to marry her. Neither plan seems to have much potential. With at times rather agonizing slowness in the first 50% of the book, things progress to a point where an unusual event occurs. This event was the turning point and the rest of the book held my interest.
The only thing that became annoying was the amount of repetition portraying the main characters insecurities.
Overall it was an enjoyable read with many touching moments and a few humorous ones.
Thank you to the author, Angela Johnson, the publisher, Pemberly Publishing, and BookSirens for the opportunity to read and review an ARC.
June 4, 2023
My review
Another great tale by author, Angela Johnson. I loved the dialogue and subtle use of humor between the 2 main characters as they were getting to know each other better. The use of mythology in this regency romance was a fun and interesting twist. I love how this story shows that our lives can have a better outcome as we are flexible and willing to change for good as we experience life and relationships. Happy reading, friends!
Book Description: When love arrives on a camel, who knew it would be oblivious to flirting?
Self-proclaimed bachelor for life Phineas Fernley has dreamed of exploring the world since the day he found a book on archaeology hidden on the shelves of his father’s library. Armed with books and his personal journal Phineas sets out to add his knowledge to the world of ancient artifacts. His one true desire is to walk into a Pharaoh’s death chamber and discover the treasure within.
Living in the Egyptian desert was supposed to be temporary for Lady Adelia Winthrop and her father. After three years in Egypt, Adelia is no closer to convincing her father to return to England. As a spinster, all hope for a husband seems to be lost until a handsome gentleman arrives covered in sand and spit, riding upon an ornery camel.
Determined to fulfill their dreams, Adelia and Phineas set out on separate adventures. Phineas finds happiness at a dig site in the Valley of the Kings while Adelia shamelessly flirts, with the goal of making a match. When all hope seems lost, instead of giving up and accepting defeat, Adelia makes a request of a mythological goddess. To achieve their goals, she needs Phineas to notice her, and he needs Adelia to stop enchanting his every thought.
Another great tale by author, Angela Johnson. I loved the dialogue and subtle use of humor between the 2 main characters as they were getting to know each other better. The use of mythology in this regency romance was a fun and interesting twist. I love how this story shows that our lives can have a better outcome as we are flexible and willing to change for good as we experience life and relationships. Happy reading, friends!
Book Description: When love arrives on a camel, who knew it would be oblivious to flirting?
Self-proclaimed bachelor for life Phineas Fernley has dreamed of exploring the world since the day he found a book on archaeology hidden on the shelves of his father’s library. Armed with books and his personal journal Phineas sets out to add his knowledge to the world of ancient artifacts. His one true desire is to walk into a Pharaoh’s death chamber and discover the treasure within.
Living in the Egyptian desert was supposed to be temporary for Lady Adelia Winthrop and her father. After three years in Egypt, Adelia is no closer to convincing her father to return to England. As a spinster, all hope for a husband seems to be lost until a handsome gentleman arrives covered in sand and spit, riding upon an ornery camel.
Determined to fulfill their dreams, Adelia and Phineas set out on separate adventures. Phineas finds happiness at a dig site in the Valley of the Kings while Adelia shamelessly flirts, with the goal of making a match. When all hope seems lost, instead of giving up and accepting defeat, Adelia makes a request of a mythological goddess. To achieve their goals, she needs Phineas to notice her, and he needs Adelia to stop enchanting his every thought.
August 15, 2023
More accurately 4.5 stars.
I enjoyed this book all the way through. I'm a big fan of Egyptian history and stories, so it was nice that this author was able to include some aspect of ancient Egypt and in practices throughout the story.
The two main characters and their flaws make you like them almost immediately. Lady Adelia lives with her father in Egypt but she is miserable and desperately wants to go home to England. She's struggled to marry and almost accepts her situation as a spinster but she still dreams of the proper English lifestyle.
Phineas is a dreamer and since boyhood he's wanted to travel the world and discover ancient artifacts. He's not attached to the traditional English lifestyle and has focused on his studies and almost nothing else.
A chance meeting introduces him to Lady Adelia's brother and sets up and introduction to her father. And from there the story takes off with a beautiful story of two people who need help finding their way, both in life and to each other.
Lady Adelia's character has so many emotional struggles and as a reader you root for her to win because she definitely deserves more than she's been giving. I wish we could have gotten a little more insight to her background because although she's super intelligent and caring, she's been secluded for so long and it seems like her time in England left her somewhat lacking in her confidences.
This was such a great story and I look forward to reading other work by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this book all the way through. I'm a big fan of Egyptian history and stories, so it was nice that this author was able to include some aspect of ancient Egypt and in practices throughout the story.
The two main characters and their flaws make you like them almost immediately. Lady Adelia lives with her father in Egypt but she is miserable and desperately wants to go home to England. She's struggled to marry and almost accepts her situation as a spinster but she still dreams of the proper English lifestyle.
Phineas is a dreamer and since boyhood he's wanted to travel the world and discover ancient artifacts. He's not attached to the traditional English lifestyle and has focused on his studies and almost nothing else.
A chance meeting introduces him to Lady Adelia's brother and sets up and introduction to her father. And from there the story takes off with a beautiful story of two people who need help finding their way, both in life and to each other.
Lady Adelia's character has so many emotional struggles and as a reader you root for her to win because she definitely deserves more than she's been giving. I wish we could have gotten a little more insight to her background because although she's super intelligent and caring, she's been secluded for so long and it seems like her time in England left her somewhat lacking in her confidences.
This was such a great story and I look forward to reading other work by this author.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 16, 2023
I started The Archaeologist and the Spinster not really knowing what to expect, and when the opening words portrayed young Phineas in front of his governess, I knew I was smitten. Then he had to face his father, Earl Grafton, for his behavior and I so admired how his father handled the whole situation showing his love for his son in all forms. By the time Phineas leaves for Egypt, I’m in love with the whole family. The creative way that the author, Angela Johnson, introduced her characters imbedded them in my heart immediately so when Phineas was awed with seeing Egypt for the first time so was I, when he was hurt because his camel didn’t like him so was I, when he was ecstatic at possibly finding treasure so was I and when he was suffering so was I. The book speaks a lot about pagan gods but if you read carefully you will find the teachings of God throughout it, done in a wonderful and subtle way. For future readers, you will discover a book of adventure, of trickery, of humor but overall a romance that goes through many phases with a true gentleman falling in love with a lady desiring nothing more than for him to love her and both to be happy and content together. The book is a clean well written love story told from two POVs that will leave you smiling in the end. I’m an ARC reviewer: reading for the enjoyment and voluntarily reviewing so that others may know what to expect.
February 8, 2023
I liked this book very much. Even as Phineas stood before his father the Earl Grafton’s door with the note from his governess in his shaking hand, he never doubted he would one day travel to Egypt as an Archaeologist and discover great things. Years later standing in the blistering heat of Alexandria gazing up at a spitting camel, he was relieved to be rescued by Lord Huntly who explained the wisdom of choosing a camel and an offer to work and live with him and his daughter Adelia. After 3 years Adelia had one desire which was to leave Egypt forever and return home to England. Her father felt it was her duty to go with him and treated her with great disdain when she expressed her great loneliness. When Adelia and Phineas meet he is certain she is of no threat to him, even if he does find her beautiful. She sees him as a chance to get home and sets out to make him fall in love with her, even if she has no idea how to do so. She becomes desperate and sets off a chain of events that go badly and it seems that they will never have a happy ending to their story. I loved the twists, the details of Egypt, and some very funny efforts to seem desirable by Adelia. I read an ARC for free and this is my honest review left voluntarily.
February 16, 2023
This journey was different than the regency norm and I eventually really liked these characters. It is like a cross between Swiss Family Robinson and maybe Wives and Daughters? Adelia is stuck in Egypt, with her positively annoying father, when she really wants to return to England. Phineas has only dreamed of being in Egypt and soaks every moment up.
I liked Phineas and his cluelessness. It made him a likeable character. Enter his camel. Hilarious! It’s not really a humorous book, but there are gems to be found throughout and I loved when they popped up. Although Adelia is kind of a wishy washy character I wanted her to find happiness.
There were a few times I scratched my head trying to figure things out, but I loved the whole ending as Adelia and Phineas tried to embrace their individual paths. It’s a sweet regency romance just not your typical setting and that was completely refreshing. I liked that their paths did not go in a predictable way.
I received an ARC of this book, but my opinions are left voluntarily. I haven’t read the series and didn’t feel like it was necessary, but now I’m super curious about Gilbert!
I liked Phineas and his cluelessness. It made him a likeable character. Enter his camel. Hilarious! It’s not really a humorous book, but there are gems to be found throughout and I loved when they popped up. Although Adelia is kind of a wishy washy character I wanted her to find happiness.
There were a few times I scratched my head trying to figure things out, but I loved the whole ending as Adelia and Phineas tried to embrace their individual paths. It’s a sweet regency romance just not your typical setting and that was completely refreshing. I liked that their paths did not go in a predictable way.
I received an ARC of this book, but my opinions are left voluntarily. I haven’t read the series and didn’t feel like it was necessary, but now I’m super curious about Gilbert!
February 19, 2023
Phineas Fernley has been fascinated with Egypt & Archeology since a young age.
He set sail for Alexandria in 1812, and was met by the Marquess of Huntley, whose son he had met just prior to his departure.
Huntley offered to let him stay as a guest at his home, saying that his daughter, Adelia, would be delighted to see a fellow countryman.
Adelia, however, was not the “elderly spinster” her brother had described to Phineas, and when he arrived at their home, she assumed that her Father had brought him there as a prospective husband for her.
This is a fascinating story of Egypt & Archeology in the hot, dry desert, as well as Adelia’s attempts to gain Phineas’ attention.
There is much trickery afoot too, and all is not as it seems to be.
Did Adelia capture Phineas’ attention in the end? You’ll have to read to find out, but you won’t be disappointed.
I was engrossed in the story, which was very well researched, and found the pagan gods and goddesses mentioned very interesting, as were the descriptions of the Nile & the Red Sea.
Five stars from me!
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
He set sail for Alexandria in 1812, and was met by the Marquess of Huntley, whose son he had met just prior to his departure.
Huntley offered to let him stay as a guest at his home, saying that his daughter, Adelia, would be delighted to see a fellow countryman.
Adelia, however, was not the “elderly spinster” her brother had described to Phineas, and when he arrived at their home, she assumed that her Father had brought him there as a prospective husband for her.
This is a fascinating story of Egypt & Archeology in the hot, dry desert, as well as Adelia’s attempts to gain Phineas’ attention.
There is much trickery afoot too, and all is not as it seems to be.
Did Adelia capture Phineas’ attention in the end? You’ll have to read to find out, but you won’t be disappointed.
I was engrossed in the story, which was very well researched, and found the pagan gods and goddesses mentioned very interesting, as were the descriptions of the Nile & the Red Sea.
Five stars from me!
I received an Advance Review Copy of this book, and am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
February 25, 2023
Phineas Fernley's dream was to live a life of adventures, outside the English estate where he was born. When he finally has the means and opportunity to work in Egipt as an archaeologist, he met Lord Huntly who kindly helps him in his first job at the Valley of the kings.
Adelia is living in Egipt with his father, but she resents the fact she could not frequent London society and has no more opportunities to find a suitable husband. When she met Phineas, her father's guest, she sees an opportunity to change her life, maybe if he falls in love with her and they go back to England…
There is no easy way for this couple. Phineas is attracted to Adelia, but wants to stay in Luxor. Adelia loves Phineas too, but she knows he prefers to chase ancient artifacts then live in England.
I liked this book, because is very well written and it is intense and full of inner contradictions in both characters, It's not a sweet love story at first sight, but a story about understanding the other and making sacrifices to pursue love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Adelia is living in Egipt with his father, but she resents the fact she could not frequent London society and has no more opportunities to find a suitable husband. When she met Phineas, her father's guest, she sees an opportunity to change her life, maybe if he falls in love with her and they go back to England…
There is no easy way for this couple. Phineas is attracted to Adelia, but wants to stay in Luxor. Adelia loves Phineas too, but she knows he prefers to chase ancient artifacts then live in England.
I liked this book, because is very well written and it is intense and full of inner contradictions in both characters, It's not a sweet love story at first sight, but a story about understanding the other and making sacrifices to pursue love.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 30, 2023
Phineas, consumed by a wanderlust and fascination with Egypt and antiquities since his childhood, left England behind and traveled to Egypt with no intention to ever return. In Egypt he met Adelia, who had been living there, quite unhappily, with her father, wishing desperately to return to England. Their feelings for each other grew over time, but it turned out there was more at work than just their hearts. I enjoyed the story and liked the characters for the most part. Sometimes I was a little frustrated with Adelia, especially in the last part of the book. There was obviously a lot of research about some topics in the story, but there are some inaccurate details and words that must not have been checked. The story took an interesting turn and I would be intrigued to learn more about the legalities of the situation Phineas and Adelia found themselves in. It made for quite a story. I really like a series about brothers, and this one has been enjoyable. This story is closed door with no harsh language.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 3, 2023
After reading the first two books in the series, I was very excited to read Phineas’ story too. And when I found out it would be mostly taking place in Egypt, I got even more excited. I have loved Egypt and its mysteries since I first saw The Mummy as a child. So I knew I would love this romance taking place in this enchanting land. And though it began with some awkward conversations, this love story unfolded into a beautiful romance that grew deeper with each passing day. I truly enjoyed getting to know Phineas better and seeing him fall in love. Adelia was a good match for him and helped him realize that others care for him and his dreams just as much as he does. And together they learned that dreams change when true love comes into your life. Definitely recommend this sweet story for your TBR. It’s a delight on the first page, the last page and all the ones in between.
I received the complimentary ARC of the story from the author. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received the complimentary ARC of the story from the author. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
March 13, 2023
An Imperfect Forever Match
In most romance novels it is pretty obvious if the hero and heroine are a good match. Not so with The Archaeologist and the Spinster by Angela Johnson.
The main characters are truly opposites in every way. Sure, the hero (Phineas) is attracted to the heroine (Adelia), but he is also very determined not to let his attraction distract him from his future goals. The heroine is just as determined to do whatever it takes to convince the hero to abandon his lofty goals and take her back to England. Did I mention most of this story takes place in Egypt? Very, very hot and sandy Egypt. You'll need to read this entertaining tale to find out just how they achieve their HEA and whether or not they go to England or stay in Egypt. But watch out for the unexpected plot twists.
Content 411: This book is refreshingly clean and suitable for all romance readers.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
In most romance novels it is pretty obvious if the hero and heroine are a good match. Not so with The Archaeologist and the Spinster by Angela Johnson.
The main characters are truly opposites in every way. Sure, the hero (Phineas) is attracted to the heroine (Adelia), but he is also very determined not to let his attraction distract him from his future goals. The heroine is just as determined to do whatever it takes to convince the hero to abandon his lofty goals and take her back to England. Did I mention most of this story takes place in Egypt? Very, very hot and sandy Egypt. You'll need to read this entertaining tale to find out just how they achieve their HEA and whether or not they go to England or stay in Egypt. But watch out for the unexpected plot twists.
Content 411: This book is refreshingly clean and suitable for all romance readers.
Disclosure: I received this book for free from BookSirens. I am voluntarily reviewing this book, and this is my honest review.
March 28, 2023
Oh what a complicated, convoluted plot!! I was drawn to this book because of the Egyptology component, but there is so much more involved.
Phineas has wanted to be an archeologist most of his life, and he is finally living his dream…. But is it going to be everything he thought it would be?
Adelia has been stuck in Egypt with her father for 3 years. She is sick of the heat and sand, and yearns for the lush greenery of England.
At the beginning of this book I was so upset with her father, and truthfully a little embarrassed by her machinations in trying to get a husband. However I realized how frustrating it must be not to be in charge of your own life and to feel like everyone is ignoring your distress. Her maid's confidence in the Egyptian gods to solve her problems of course created a few more problems and misunderstandings…… But all's well that ends well and of course there is a HEA. A great satisfying read!
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a voluntary review. Ask thoughts enclosed in the review are my own.
Phineas has wanted to be an archeologist most of his life, and he is finally living his dream…. But is it going to be everything he thought it would be?
Adelia has been stuck in Egypt with her father for 3 years. She is sick of the heat and sand, and yearns for the lush greenery of England.
At the beginning of this book I was so upset with her father, and truthfully a little embarrassed by her machinations in trying to get a husband. However I realized how frustrating it must be not to be in charge of your own life and to feel like everyone is ignoring your distress. Her maid's confidence in the Egyptian gods to solve her problems of course created a few more problems and misunderstandings…… But all's well that ends well and of course there is a HEA. A great satisfying read!
I received an ARC of this book and am leaving a voluntary review. Ask thoughts enclosed in the review are my own.
February 5, 2026
This is a non-typical Regency romance but definite;y entertaining. see note
Amazon synopsis:
Self-proclaimed bachelor for life Phineas Fernley has dreamed of exploring the world since the day he found a book on archaeology hidden on the shelves of his father’s library. Armed with books and his personal journal Phineas sets out to add his knowledge to the world of ancient artifacts. His one true desire is to walk into a Pharaoh’s death chamber and discover the treasure within.
Living in the Egyptian desert was supposed to be temporary for Lady Adelia Winthrop and her father. After three years in Egypt, Adelia is no closer to convincing her father to return to England. As a spinster, all hope for a husband seems to be lost until a handsome gentleman arrives covered in sand and spit, riding upon an ornery camel.
Determined to fulfill their dreams, Adelia and Phineas set out on separate adventures. Phineas finds happiness at a dig site in the Valley of the Kings while Adelia shamelessly flirts, with the goal of making a match. When all hope seems lost, instead of giving up and accepting defeat, Adelia makes a request of a mythological goddess. To achieve their goals, she needs Phineas to notice her, and he needs Adelia to stop enchanting his every thought.
Amazon synopsis:
Self-proclaimed bachelor for life Phineas Fernley has dreamed of exploring the world since the day he found a book on archaeology hidden on the shelves of his father’s library. Armed with books and his personal journal Phineas sets out to add his knowledge to the world of ancient artifacts. His one true desire is to walk into a Pharaoh’s death chamber and discover the treasure within.
Living in the Egyptian desert was supposed to be temporary for Lady Adelia Winthrop and her father. After three years in Egypt, Adelia is no closer to convincing her father to return to England. As a spinster, all hope for a husband seems to be lost until a handsome gentleman arrives covered in sand and spit, riding upon an ornery camel.
Determined to fulfill their dreams, Adelia and Phineas set out on separate adventures. Phineas finds happiness at a dig site in the Valley of the Kings while Adelia shamelessly flirts, with the goal of making a match. When all hope seems lost, instead of giving up and accepting defeat, Adelia makes a request of a mythological goddess. To achieve their goals, she needs Phineas to notice her, and he needs Adelia to stop enchanting his every thought.
February 3, 2023
The Archaeologist and the Spinster was a fun spin on regency era romances by taking the story outside of the traditional English countryside and into the sandy unforgiving Egyptian desert. The inclusion of Egyptian mythology was a nice touch, as was the subtle 'dig' about removing artifacts from their original homelands. And who knew that one of the best characters in a book could be a grumpy camel?
This was the first novel I have read by this author and her scenes with other members of the Fernley family were perfect to peak my interest into reading more of the series.
I loved the main conflict 'twist' in the end--where the biggest hurdle was the heroine herself and the constancy of her love interest that eventually overcomes it. Overall a sweet and fun breezy read perfect for a vacation or a dreary day stuck inside.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This was the first novel I have read by this author and her scenes with other members of the Fernley family were perfect to peak my interest into reading more of the series.
I loved the main conflict 'twist' in the end--where the biggest hurdle was the heroine herself and the constancy of her love interest that eventually overcomes it. Overall a sweet and fun breezy read perfect for a vacation or a dreary day stuck inside.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 27, 2023
As a love story this does work. It has the advantage of being a Regency novel not set in London or Bath which have both become tedious, but in a totally different locale - Egypt. I say Regency novel, but the time period is not stated within the book, so we have to just go by the sub-title "Fernley Family a Regency-era Romance"
Unfortunately the book does suffer from a lack of research. Anachronisms abound and there are many time/distance inconsistencies. For me, the characters seemed rather flat. Adelia was somewhat vapid. I know women at the time had no education to speak of, but really she seemed to suffer also from a lack of logical thinking. Phineas was little better.
But if you like your love stories light and easy to read you may enjoy this. This could have been competition for the Amelia Peabody novels of Elizabeth Peters but it sadly is not.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Unfortunately the book does suffer from a lack of research. Anachronisms abound and there are many time/distance inconsistencies. For me, the characters seemed rather flat. Adelia was somewhat vapid. I know women at the time had no education to speak of, but really she seemed to suffer also from a lack of logical thinking. Phineas was little better.
But if you like your love stories light and easy to read you may enjoy this. This could have been competition for the Amelia Peabody novels of Elizabeth Peters but it sadly is not.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 9, 2023
Thank you to Book Sirens, Pemberley Publishing and Angela Johnson for the opportunity to read an ARC for “The Archaeologist and the Spinster” , this is my honest and unpaid review.
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book. I’ve read quite a few regency romances and other similar types and I liked the idea of this one being set in Egypt! The book started off really well but then the story got sort of choppy. I kept on hoping it was maybe just that section but it felt like there was something missing.
I wanted to like this book because it had so many things going for it but in the end the story fell a bit short for me. The characters were a sort of one-dimensional and Adelia was a hard main character for me to connect with. It seemed like she and Phineas had just met then all of a sudden there’s all of these “deeper feelings” but I was lost how they’d gotten to there. I made it to the halfway point and gave up. I may try it again in the future and I see there are other books by this author that many people love so I’ll also search them out!
I was intrigued by the synopsis of this book. I’ve read quite a few regency romances and other similar types and I liked the idea of this one being set in Egypt! The book started off really well but then the story got sort of choppy. I kept on hoping it was maybe just that section but it felt like there was something missing.
I wanted to like this book because it had so many things going for it but in the end the story fell a bit short for me. The characters were a sort of one-dimensional and Adelia was a hard main character for me to connect with. It seemed like she and Phineas had just met then all of a sudden there’s all of these “deeper feelings” but I was lost how they’d gotten to there. I made it to the halfway point and gave up. I may try it again in the future and I see there are other books by this author that many people love so I’ll also search them out!
June 14, 2025
Actual rating 4.5*
As an avid lover of all thing Egyptology, I was excited about this one! I appreciated the vivid details of Luxor and Phineas's desire to find treasure in the Valley of the Kings. Adelia was very likable, and I really felt for her and her plight. Her hardships would have been so difficult to endure, especially with a father like hers (eww, that dude was just horrible). Angela certainly excels at character growth arcs, and in this one, we get both MCs starting out with somewhat selfish motives who learn to consider their spouse over their own desires and find love along the way.
I wasn't FULLY satisfied with the ending, but this is more of a personal thing, I think. I would have preferred to see the couple still traveling (together) so it felt a little less like Phineas gave up all of his dreams, but again, preference. Still a very excellent read with a unique setting that I thoroughly enjoyed!
As an avid lover of all thing Egyptology, I was excited about this one! I appreciated the vivid details of Luxor and Phineas's desire to find treasure in the Valley of the Kings. Adelia was very likable, and I really felt for her and her plight. Her hardships would have been so difficult to endure, especially with a father like hers (eww, that dude was just horrible). Angela certainly excels at character growth arcs, and in this one, we get both MCs starting out with somewhat selfish motives who learn to consider their spouse over their own desires and find love along the way.
I wasn't FULLY satisfied with the ending, but this is more of a personal thing, I think. I would have preferred to see the couple still traveling (together) so it felt a little less like Phineas gave up all of his dreams, but again, preference. Still a very excellent read with a unique setting that I thoroughly enjoyed!
January 29, 2023
This is as interesting take in the typical Regency trope. Archeology was a fascination for the period and not a lot of stories include the details.The story centers around Phineas Fernley, son of the Earl of Grafton, who as a child is enamored with Egyptology and as an adult is an archeologist embarking on a dig in Egypt. He is offered an introduction to the Marquess of Huntley , by his son Viscount Carlin to work in the Valley of the Kings. There he meets Adelia, the daughter and the rest of the story revolves around them.
There is a run in with a ornary camel ,Nefertiti, unruly natives and sandstorms. This is a clean Regency . There are some glaring anachronisms and some geographical gaffs ( that I actually had to look up to confirm) but other than that I enjoyed the story.
I received this advanced copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.L
There is a run in with a ornary camel ,Nefertiti, unruly natives and sandstorms. This is a clean Regency . There are some glaring anachronisms and some geographical gaffs ( that I actually had to look up to confirm) but other than that I enjoyed the story.
I received this advanced copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.L
February 21, 2023
clean romance
Four and a half stars for a book that was not what I expected it to be at all! That being said that is not a bad thing.
Great characters and a well developed plot line that had several unexpected surprises and twists that kept me guessing as to how it was all going to work.
I enjoyed the interesting aspect of the plot with the hero and heroine drawn to each other but with several obstacles in the way…many that are unique and unexpected.
I must admit I did struggle a bit with the heroine as she seemed a bit spoiled and unwilling to bend and compromise for the hero. I felt the hero was the one willing to go the extra mile above and beyond.
But of course I love the resolution of the romance and the quirky way it was presented.
The third in the series but each are stand alone books. But I have enjoyed each in order.
Four and a half stars for a book that was not what I expected it to be at all! That being said that is not a bad thing.
Great characters and a well developed plot line that had several unexpected surprises and twists that kept me guessing as to how it was all going to work.
I enjoyed the interesting aspect of the plot with the hero and heroine drawn to each other but with several obstacles in the way…many that are unique and unexpected.
I must admit I did struggle a bit with the heroine as she seemed a bit spoiled and unwilling to bend and compromise for the hero. I felt the hero was the one willing to go the extra mile above and beyond.
But of course I love the resolution of the romance and the quirky way it was presented.
The third in the series but each are stand alone books. But I have enjoyed each in order.
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