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Gentlemen of London #1
A Lady's Risk
'I cannot recommend this enough. This was the best Regency RomCom I've read all year!' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'A real regency romance which was a delight to read' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I really enjoyed this story, but I have to say I cheered for Nick, and I yelled for Meggy to wake up' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Never trust a rake...
Lady Margaret has devoted herself to taking care of her young siblings and the estate while her half-brother fritters away the family fortune. Upon Edwin's death, she learns he has left them destitute and, worst of all, at the mercy of a notorious and cruel rake.
Lord Nicholas would much rather be pursuing women for quick sport rather than taking care of a headstrong debutante without any prospects, as well as her siblings. But Edwin saved his life once, and now Nicholas owes him a debt. Fortunately, all he has to do is find Meggy a husband, and his debt will be paid.
There's just one problem: Meggy is nothing like what he'd imagined. And the more time he spends in her company, the more he begins to wonder whether he's met his match...
Heartwarming, sexy and unputdownable, A Lady's Risk is perfect for fans of Georgette Heyer and Bridgerton.
*The first in The Gentlemen of London series*
'A real regency romance which was a delight to read' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
'I really enjoyed this story, but I have to say I cheered for Nick, and I yelled for Meggy to wake up' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Never trust a rake...
Lady Margaret has devoted herself to taking care of her young siblings and the estate while her half-brother fritters away the family fortune. Upon Edwin's death, she learns he has left them destitute and, worst of all, at the mercy of a notorious and cruel rake.
Lord Nicholas would much rather be pursuing women for quick sport rather than taking care of a headstrong debutante without any prospects, as well as her siblings. But Edwin saved his life once, and now Nicholas owes him a debt. Fortunately, all he has to do is find Meggy a husband, and his debt will be paid.
There's just one problem: Meggy is nothing like what he'd imagined. And the more time he spends in her company, the more he begins to wonder whether he's met his match...
Heartwarming, sexy and unputdownable, A Lady's Risk is perfect for fans of Georgette Heyer and Bridgerton.
*The first in The Gentlemen of London series*
400 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2022
About the author
Felicity George
6 books42 followersFelicity George is a writer and teacher from Toronto, where she lives with her husband, her two teenage children, a large cat, and a tiny dog. A lifelong devotee of Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer, Felicity adores a happily-ever-after.
Connect with Felicity:
On Instagram: @felicitygeorge_romance
On Bluesky: @felicitygeorge.bsky.social
On X: @FGeorgeRomance
On Facebook: @FelicityGeorgeRegencyRomance
Connect with Felicity:
On Instagram: @felicitygeorge_romance
On Bluesky: @felicitygeorge.bsky.social
On X: @FGeorgeRomance
On Facebook: @FelicityGeorgeRegencyRomance
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
October 26, 2022
A story of family, friendship, healing, and taking a chance on love, A Lady’s Risk follows Margaret and Nicholas, joint guardians of Margaret’s younger siblings. I loved Margaret and Nicholas, as well as the secondary characters in the story and the swoon-worthy romance!
Meggy and Nicholas are layered and interesting characters with trauma in their past that defines their present. Meggy has devoted much of her life to caring for her younger siblings. All but abandoned by her older brother, Meggy is on the brink of destitution and knows she must marry to protect herself and her siblings. She loves her family more than anything, and she’s so selfless when it comes to them. She’s also strong, feisty, and fun with a strong sense of who she is and what she believes in.
Initially, Nicholas wants nothing to do with Meggy and her younger siblings, but he made a deathbed promise to her older brother to care for them and help Meggy find a husband. Happy with his rakish lifestyle, Nicholas never expects to be so profoundly affected by Meggy, but he is drawn to her from the start. I really enjoyed his character arc, and the more I learned about him and his troubled past, the more sympathy I had for him. He is so earnest, and he grows a lot over the course of the story. I like that he begins to realize his worth and learns to forgive himself and others. His is a story of love and healing, and it intrigued me from the start.
Oh my gosh, the love story between Meggy and Nicholas is wonderful! Meggy knows of Nicolas’s rakish ways, and she doesn’t trust that he’ll change. Though she is attracted to him, she doesn’t want to risk her heart. Like Nicholas, Meggy is very affected by her past, and she has every reason to doubt him. I do wish they communicated a bit more and that they were more patient with each other, but I think they both had to come to terms with their feelings and their pasts before they could be completely open and vulnerable with each other. The way he reacts when Meggy gets courted by several men made me melt, and the sweet and tender moments they have are lovely. Even when they are at odds, they have amazing chemistry, and the angst and pining are off the charts! Several romantic scenes had me positively swooning!
I also really enjoyed the other relationships and secondary characters in the story. The children are all so fun and inquisitive and sweet, and there are some great scenes with them. Meggy and Nicholas’s sister have a lovely friendship, and Nicholas and Meggy’s younger brother form a special bond. He doesn’t even realize it, but Nicholas is a wonderful role model for the kids, and the letter he writes to Meggy’s little brother is beautiful. He puts in words many things I think he struggles to say out loud. Nicholas also has a great relationship with his sister, and I’m eager to learn more about her and her husband as well as some of the other secondary characters in the story.
This is a wonderful start to Felicity George’s Gentlemen of London series! It’s a heartwarming, sexy, and moving story with layered and unique characters and an epic love story. I would definitely recommend the book to historical romance readers and readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romance. Special thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Meggy and Nicholas are layered and interesting characters with trauma in their past that defines their present. Meggy has devoted much of her life to caring for her younger siblings. All but abandoned by her older brother, Meggy is on the brink of destitution and knows she must marry to protect herself and her siblings. She loves her family more than anything, and she’s so selfless when it comes to them. She’s also strong, feisty, and fun with a strong sense of who she is and what she believes in.
Initially, Nicholas wants nothing to do with Meggy and her younger siblings, but he made a deathbed promise to her older brother to care for them and help Meggy find a husband. Happy with his rakish lifestyle, Nicholas never expects to be so profoundly affected by Meggy, but he is drawn to her from the start. I really enjoyed his character arc, and the more I learned about him and his troubled past, the more sympathy I had for him. He is so earnest, and he grows a lot over the course of the story. I like that he begins to realize his worth and learns to forgive himself and others. His is a story of love and healing, and it intrigued me from the start.
Oh my gosh, the love story between Meggy and Nicholas is wonderful! Meggy knows of Nicolas’s rakish ways, and she doesn’t trust that he’ll change. Though she is attracted to him, she doesn’t want to risk her heart. Like Nicholas, Meggy is very affected by her past, and she has every reason to doubt him. I do wish they communicated a bit more and that they were more patient with each other, but I think they both had to come to terms with their feelings and their pasts before they could be completely open and vulnerable with each other. The way he reacts when Meggy gets courted by several men made me melt, and the sweet and tender moments they have are lovely. Even when they are at odds, they have amazing chemistry, and the angst and pining are off the charts! Several romantic scenes had me positively swooning!
I also really enjoyed the other relationships and secondary characters in the story. The children are all so fun and inquisitive and sweet, and there are some great scenes with them. Meggy and Nicholas’s sister have a lovely friendship, and Nicholas and Meggy’s younger brother form a special bond. He doesn’t even realize it, but Nicholas is a wonderful role model for the kids, and the letter he writes to Meggy’s little brother is beautiful. He puts in words many things I think he struggles to say out loud. Nicholas also has a great relationship with his sister, and I’m eager to learn more about her and her husband as well as some of the other secondary characters in the story.
This is a wonderful start to Felicity George’s Gentlemen of London series! It’s a heartwarming, sexy, and moving story with layered and unique characters and an epic love story. I would definitely recommend the book to historical romance readers and readers who enjoy enemies-to-lovers romance. Special thanks to the author for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
May 13, 2024
This is a new author for me. I heard she was steamy. Not sure where I heard about her. Fingers crossed it's good. My regular authors don't have any new releases until May 14 and I only have 2 books on my TBR list.
Not sure how I feel about this book. The story itself was a bit boring and since it wasn’t a huge storyline it tended to drag on. I wasn’t really a fan of either character, Margaret (Meggy) and Nick. I didn't like how they were written. He was a bit wimpy and even though he went through the same things as many other characters I’ve read over many, many years of reading, the way she wrote how he handled it was very different from other peers. Meggy just didn’t know what the hell she wanted. One minute she hated him, the next like him, then hated him again. Yes, yes, yes, then no, no, no, then yes, yes, yes. UGH! Just a strange couple. There were a few sex scenes but not detailed and not impressive. Disappointing.
Not sure how I feel about this book. The story itself was a bit boring and since it wasn’t a huge storyline it tended to drag on. I wasn’t really a fan of either character, Margaret (Meggy) and Nick. I didn't like how they were written. He was a bit wimpy and even though he went through the same things as many other characters I’ve read over many, many years of reading, the way she wrote how he handled it was very different from other peers. Meggy just didn’t know what the hell she wanted. One minute she hated him, the next like him, then hated him again. Yes, yes, yes, then no, no, no, then yes, yes, yes. UGH! Just a strange couple. There were a few sex scenes but not detailed and not impressive. Disappointing.
November 2, 2022
Since her father’s death Lady Margaret has been responsible for the care of her two younger siblings and her family’s estate while her wastrel half-brother, Edwin, the Earl of Bucksleigh, depletes the family coffers with his profligate lifestyle in London. When Edwin dies, Meggy is distressed to learn that she and her siblings have been left with nothing and she must share guardianship of them with a man with a notoriously rakish reputation.
Lord Nicholas Burton, Marquess of Holbrook, isn’t thrilled to be saddled with a debutante and two children, but he owes Edwin this debt of honor. He just has to find Meggy a husband to take over his role and his debt will be repaid. Unfortunately for him, Meggy isn’t at all what he thought she’d be and as he comes to know her, he begins to wonder if she could change everything he expected for his future.
This book is perfect for those who like the period-focused, detail-oriented style of Mary Balogh, especially if you prefer more steam (a feature I’m always a fan of.) I liked the setup of the wastrel brother’s not quite friend having to work with his younger sister to be guardian to the two younger siblings. I liked that this was a higher steam book, though that relationship development between these MCs would’ve been stronger for me if their intimacy hadn’t devolved so often into a fight. There was clear chemistry between Meggy and Nicky (I’m not a fan of either of these names), but she did get frustrating after a bit with her rigidity. For his part, Nick was often an idiot and deserved the vitriol Meggy threw at him. She was a bit too inclined to be a martyr and some of her inner monologues grew a bit repetitive, though I think this was a deliberate choice to show us as readers how she was trying to convince herself of Nick’s unsuitability when she no longer believed in it. Nick was definitely not that likable for much of the story, but I am inclined to give him credit for trying and his character development was very strong. He cried quite a lot, but I was glad to see him be willing to be open and discuss his feelings with Meggy, though I’d have loved it more if she’d done the same. I wish we’d seen a bit more of this sort of growth from Meggy instead of just getting her wake up as a sort of epiphany near the end. Nevertheless, I was satisfied to see Nick finally get some unconditional love; after his tragic past, he definitely deserved it and the family he and Meggy created together was quite endearing.
This story was very dramatic, and character driven in a way that will appeal to many readers. The writing is very strong and well done and this is a new author I will try again.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lord Nicholas Burton, Marquess of Holbrook, isn’t thrilled to be saddled with a debutante and two children, but he owes Edwin this debt of honor. He just has to find Meggy a husband to take over his role and his debt will be repaid. Unfortunately for him, Meggy isn’t at all what he thought she’d be and as he comes to know her, he begins to wonder if she could change everything he expected for his future.
This book is perfect for those who like the period-focused, detail-oriented style of Mary Balogh, especially if you prefer more steam (a feature I’m always a fan of.) I liked the setup of the wastrel brother’s not quite friend having to work with his younger sister to be guardian to the two younger siblings. I liked that this was a higher steam book, though that relationship development between these MCs would’ve been stronger for me if their intimacy hadn’t devolved so often into a fight. There was clear chemistry between Meggy and Nicky (I’m not a fan of either of these names), but she did get frustrating after a bit with her rigidity. For his part, Nick was often an idiot and deserved the vitriol Meggy threw at him. She was a bit too inclined to be a martyr and some of her inner monologues grew a bit repetitive, though I think this was a deliberate choice to show us as readers how she was trying to convince herself of Nick’s unsuitability when she no longer believed in it. Nick was definitely not that likable for much of the story, but I am inclined to give him credit for trying and his character development was very strong. He cried quite a lot, but I was glad to see him be willing to be open and discuss his feelings with Meggy, though I’d have loved it more if she’d done the same. I wish we’d seen a bit more of this sort of growth from Meggy instead of just getting her wake up as a sort of epiphany near the end. Nevertheless, I was satisfied to see Nick finally get some unconditional love; after his tragic past, he definitely deserved it and the family he and Meggy created together was quite endearing.
This story was very dramatic, and character driven in a way that will appeal to many readers. The writing is very strong and well done and this is a new author I will try again.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 17, 2022
This was one of the best regency type books I’ve read this year. It was engaging and well written. I was swept in immediately. The characters and circumstances were believable and it felt very Jane Austen. As I said it was a regency type book and what I meant by that was it’s also a steamy open door romance. I was delighted by the writing of the female protagonist because I saw her desire and feelings about her life along with her limitations. The story was a perfect balance of romance, intrigue and conflict. The time with the children were so precious and I couldn’t get enough. I really loved this and highly recommend it.
I was gifted this novel and I’m leaving an honest review. I can’t wait for book 2!
I was gifted this novel and I’m leaving an honest review. I can’t wait for book 2!
September 27, 2022
I adored this book - it's a sexy, smart and fun take on Regency romance and I could not put it down. Heroine Meggy is refreshingly sex positive and determined to take her future into her own hands. Hero Nicky is suitably rakish - I particularly enjoyed watching him get schooled by Meggy, Jane Austen style! George's writing is so lush, and her Regency world is the perfect place to escape to after a stressful day. I was hooked from the very first page and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 8, 2022
Ms George is another up-and-coming author in the historical romance genre. This book features a romance between a rake afflicted with ennui (don't they all?) and a sexually curious, virginal and young heroine. They were brought together because Meggy's deceased brother, Edwin, made Nicholas a co-guardian with Meggy to his younger siblings. On top of taking care of the younger siblings, Nicholas also has to find a husband for Meggy. Unfortunately, sparks flew, literally, the instant they met.
I think their attraction manifests too quickly, and it's just physical. I don't see them wanting each other due to other attributes (like personality). Meggy's a bit too wishy-washy for me (I want him, I don't want him). I've never been fond of a weepy hero; unfortunately, Nicholas is one of them. I believe he cried three times (maybe more) because Meggy rejected him (seriously, what are you? 5 years old?) The children featured in this book are more mature than him. He's depicted as great with kids, maybe because he is still one. The children here are lovely, though.
This is a character-driven story, so there is not much action here. The obstacles are primarily internal ( a lot of self-loathing on Nicholas's part and fear on Meggy's part).
The writing is lovely, easy to read and straightforward, with sufficient details to fulfil your imagination. Too often, and when it comes to new authors, details are lacking. It shows that the author did her homework and researched the period.
I guess my biggest problem with the story is with the main characters. I disagreed with most of their actions and didn't quite identify with either of them.
I believe this author has a lot of potentials. I would recommend this book to novice historical romance readers. For an old-timer like myself, it has a 'been there, done there' vibe. Since I've managed to finish this book, and it didn't end up in the 'DNF' pile, that's saying something.
I think their attraction manifests too quickly, and it's just physical. I don't see them wanting each other due to other attributes (like personality). Meggy's a bit too wishy-washy for me (I want him, I don't want him). I've never been fond of a weepy hero; unfortunately, Nicholas is one of them. I believe he cried three times (maybe more) because Meggy rejected him (seriously, what are you? 5 years old?) The children featured in this book are more mature than him. He's depicted as great with kids, maybe because he is still one. The children here are lovely, though.
This is a character-driven story, so there is not much action here. The obstacles are primarily internal ( a lot of self-loathing on Nicholas's part and fear on Meggy's part).
The writing is lovely, easy to read and straightforward, with sufficient details to fulfil your imagination. Too often, and when it comes to new authors, details are lacking. It shows that the author did her homework and researched the period.
I guess my biggest problem with the story is with the main characters. I disagreed with most of their actions and didn't quite identify with either of them.
I believe this author has a lot of potentials. I would recommend this book to novice historical romance readers. For an old-timer like myself, it has a 'been there, done there' vibe. Since I've managed to finish this book, and it didn't end up in the 'DNF' pile, that's saying something.
October 13, 2022
A fresh take on the Regency romance genre complete with an irresistible main couple who are surrounded by a vivid & historically-detailed world. I really loved this novel and look forward to more in this new series by Felicity George!
April 19, 2024
I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the author in exchange for review.
A Lady’s Risk by Felicity George is the first book of the Gentlemen of London. Lady Margaret has been caring for her younger brother and sister since she was fourteen, when her older half-brother Edwin died after dwindling the family’s fortune and reputation. Edwin has also left them at the mercy of notorious rake Lord Nicholas. Nicholas owes Edwin a debt after he saved his life. He must find Meggy a husband. But this task becomes complicated when he finds himself drawn to her.
This is a very layered story that kept me reading. I did struggle to connect with Meggy and Nicholas. I understood their individual struggles, but I didn’t feel they were very compatible.
A Lady’s Risk by Felicity George is the first book of the Gentlemen of London. Lady Margaret has been caring for her younger brother and sister since she was fourteen, when her older half-brother Edwin died after dwindling the family’s fortune and reputation. Edwin has also left them at the mercy of notorious rake Lord Nicholas. Nicholas owes Edwin a debt after he saved his life. He must find Meggy a husband. But this task becomes complicated when he finds himself drawn to her.
This is a very layered story that kept me reading. I did struggle to connect with Meggy and Nicholas. I understood their individual struggles, but I didn’t feel they were very compatible.
January 12, 2023
This was a very well-written, historically accurate (verbiage, clothing details, etc.) and that pleased me.
The h was slightly annoying, but I understood her reasoning. The H was less annoying (not to sound harsh, but he cried more than she did) I enjoyed the secondary characters and hope to see more books about them.
What a nice surprise to find a fresh new author who gets it right!
The h was slightly annoying, but I understood her reasoning. The H was less annoying (not to sound harsh, but he cried more than she did) I enjoyed the secondary characters and hope to see more books about them.
What a nice surprise to find a fresh new author who gets it right!
October 29, 2022
I lost myself in the pages of this delightful regency romance.
Lady Margaret (Meggy) an orphan at fourteen raises her two young siblings as guardian, whilst her errant elder brother Edwin, (The Earl) has moved away, living a life of debauchery.
Upon Edwin’s death, Meggy finds herself joint guardian with the rake who is Lord Holbrook, until her young brother, the new Earl, becomes an adult.
Will this joint guardianship even work?
A really enjoyable curl up and read for me.
Lady Margaret known as Meggy to her nearest and dearest was barely out of childhood, when she began to raise her two young siblings as their guardian, because of the absence of Edwin.
I loved the way the book told the story, whilst feeling the loving bond Meggy and her two young siblings shared. Alongside some of the other characters in the novel.
Lord Holbrook, handsome and rakish, her co joint guardian to her siblings, has had his own Skeletons in the closet to deal with in the past.
It was a steamy novel in places.
Interesting to read of developing characters as they grow and change into adulthood. Pondering their lives.
I enjoyed reading this regency romance.
Thank you to the author for an e-book copy. Opinions are entirely my own.
Lady Margaret (Meggy) an orphan at fourteen raises her two young siblings as guardian, whilst her errant elder brother Edwin, (The Earl) has moved away, living a life of debauchery.
Upon Edwin’s death, Meggy finds herself joint guardian with the rake who is Lord Holbrook, until her young brother, the new Earl, becomes an adult.
Will this joint guardianship even work?
A really enjoyable curl up and read for me.
Lady Margaret known as Meggy to her nearest and dearest was barely out of childhood, when she began to raise her two young siblings as their guardian, because of the absence of Edwin.
I loved the way the book told the story, whilst feeling the loving bond Meggy and her two young siblings shared. Alongside some of the other characters in the novel.
Lord Holbrook, handsome and rakish, her co joint guardian to her siblings, has had his own Skeletons in the closet to deal with in the past.
It was a steamy novel in places.
Interesting to read of developing characters as they grow and change into adulthood. Pondering their lives.
I enjoyed reading this regency romance.
Thank you to the author for an e-book copy. Opinions are entirely my own.
September 26, 2022
A Lady's Risk is the story of Margaret and Nicholas, who are joint guardians of Margaret's younger sister and brother - the new earl. The two share an instant attraction but with both of them battling their inner demons, they end up on a path of a slow burn romance where they often misunderstand each other and butt heads.
I found Margaret to be difficult at times but I could see why she kept returning to the same point with Nicholas, who is full of inner turmoil. The secondary characters in this book were all very entertaining. This was an enjoyable novel and I look forward to reading more from Felicity George.
I found Margaret to be difficult at times but I could see why she kept returning to the same point with Nicholas, who is full of inner turmoil. The secondary characters in this book were all very entertaining. This was an enjoyable novel and I look forward to reading more from Felicity George.
October 20, 2022
A Lady’s Risk by Felicity George
If you love a Regency Romance then this book is for you!
Meggy is a feisty heroine with a keen sense of familial love, but she distrusts romantic love. She prefers to be ruled by her head, not her heart. When she and her adorable siblings are left in the care of their half-brother’s rakish friend, Lord Holbrook, she no longer knows what she thinks or feels.
Lord Holbrook is smitten by Meggy. However tempting she is, his conscience will not allow him to behave like a complete cad. He leaves her and her siblings in the care of his sister but finds he cannot walk away, especially when his best friend finds Meggy equally alluring.
Thoroughly enjoyable romp.
If you love a Regency Romance then this book is for you!
Meggy is a feisty heroine with a keen sense of familial love, but she distrusts romantic love. She prefers to be ruled by her head, not her heart. When she and her adorable siblings are left in the care of their half-brother’s rakish friend, Lord Holbrook, she no longer knows what she thinks or feels.
Lord Holbrook is smitten by Meggy. However tempting she is, his conscience will not allow him to behave like a complete cad. He leaves her and her siblings in the care of his sister but finds he cannot walk away, especially when his best friend finds Meggy equally alluring.
Thoroughly enjoyable romp.
October 5, 2022
Modern thinking Recency Woman
Flimsy reason, but I bought this book because I loved the dress on the cover. I am making one myself!! So glad I did because I thoroughly enjoyed the story, which never faltered. I admired Meggy's strength and determination to stick to her own beliefs in time when women were not supposed to think for themselves. I look forward to reading more book by Felicity George.
Flimsy reason, but I bought this book because I loved the dress on the cover. I am making one myself!! So glad I did because I thoroughly enjoyed the story, which never faltered. I admired Meggy's strength and determination to stick to her own beliefs in time when women were not supposed to think for themselves. I look forward to reading more book by Felicity George.
October 19, 2022
A thoroughly enjoyable read. Very much in the spirit of Jane Austen however, it has been written to appeal to more modern readers - I mean, come on - we all wanted to know what happened between Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennett behind closed doors... If you're a fan of Bridgerton, and historical romance, I think you'll enjoy this book.
Looking forward to the next title in the series and future works by Felicity George.
Looking forward to the next title in the series and future works by Felicity George.
December 21, 2022
Well… the heroine in this is just a straight up b*tch. She strings along the hero for the entire novel, running hot and cold, loving him one second and verbally abusing him the next. And then at the end, HE apologizes to HER.
I’m sorry, but I simply can’t.
I’m sorry, but I simply can’t.
October 4, 2023
This was such a fun and witty story to give me some much-needed escapism. There was SO much romantic tension and as a reader who typically skips over steamy scenes, I thought these parts were excellently written and added so much to the tension between the two hopeful lovers. A refreshing and clever narrative structure that keeps you on your toes and a hero and heroine it’s hard not to love. Can't wait to read the next book from this author!
October 30, 2022
Wow, if you are suffering from Bridgerton withdrawal symptoms, this will help you through in the best possible way.
The language in this completely transports you to the Regency era and feels like an Austen (until the steamy scenes enter!)
The chemistry just sizzles off the page with Meggy and Nicholas and I was racing through desperate to see their happy ever after.
Great historical detail, superb characters- look forward to the next in the series.
The language in this completely transports you to the Regency era and feels like an Austen (until the steamy scenes enter!)
The chemistry just sizzles off the page with Meggy and Nicholas and I was racing through desperate to see their happy ever after.
Great historical detail, superb characters- look forward to the next in the series.
November 3, 2022
Totally got swept up in the tale, really enjoyable!
Thank you!!
Thank you!!
December 12, 2022
I have been given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Lady Margaret Fairchild (Meggy) and her two siblings are forced to leave their home and be under the guardianship of Lord Nicholas Holbrook. Despite Meggy and Nicholas butting heads a lot they need to work together in order for Meggie to find a suitable husband. As the family fortunes have dwindled Meggie must do what she needs to do and quickly. What follows is a lot of humour, sadness and understanding.
I have really enjoyed reading this book and I am looking forward to the next book by Felicity George coming out soon. I liked the characters especially Meggie. She has a strong will that could disarm anyone and intelligence which makes her vital when everything seems to be going wrong. The book has some really lovely vivid descriptions of the countryside and the surrounding areas.
The story flows very well and it is nice to get the thoughts and feelings of both Meggie and Nicholas instead of trying to guess what one is thinking and feeling. It is an easy calming read and one that makes you want to go back again and again.
Lady Margaret Fairchild (Meggy) and her two siblings are forced to leave their home and be under the guardianship of Lord Nicholas Holbrook. Despite Meggy and Nicholas butting heads a lot they need to work together in order for Meggie to find a suitable husband. As the family fortunes have dwindled Meggie must do what she needs to do and quickly. What follows is a lot of humour, sadness and understanding.
I have really enjoyed reading this book and I am looking forward to the next book by Felicity George coming out soon. I liked the characters especially Meggie. She has a strong will that could disarm anyone and intelligence which makes her vital when everything seems to be going wrong. The book has some really lovely vivid descriptions of the countryside and the surrounding areas.
The story flows very well and it is nice to get the thoughts and feelings of both Meggie and Nicholas instead of trying to guess what one is thinking and feeling. It is an easy calming read and one that makes you want to go back again and again.
December 19, 2022
5.0 out of 5 stars
Fantastically fun read and absolutely wonderful in its attention to historical detail.
Fantastically fun read and absolutely wonderful in its attention to historical detail.
July 16, 2023
In Felicity George's A Lady's Risk, Lady Margaret, Meggy, has been caring for her younger siblings and the family’s estate since the age of 14 when her father died leaving her reprobate older brother, Edwin, the new Earl of Berkleigh. It’s been 7 years of selfless caring for her younger brother and sister and the family estate, but she is a model caregiver, and meets the news of her brother’s death (of a venereal disease) with a stiff upper lip until she learns the terms of his will. He has entrusted joint guardianship of his younger siblings to Meggy and his rake friend, Nicholas, the Marquess of Holbrook (in his late 20s), who is to find a suitable match for 21-year old Meggy to marry. Meggy is not pleased by this new circumstance until she meets the handsome man, after which she is torn between a deep attraction to his good looks and easy way with the children, and a repulsion at all the ways he seems similar to Edwin. Nicholas has worked hard to cover over a traumatic first marriage that ended in his wife’s death while giving birth to their stillborn son. His own feelings of worthlessness get in the way of his ability to love another woman. And so the stage is set for the enemies-to-lovers story with a dash of forced proximity as Meggy and her siblings move in to Nicholas’s estate to live with him and his sister and her children.
This should have been a four or five star read for me. Felicity George writes well with deep echoes of Jane Austen in her style. The storytelling is modernized, though, and we get to see the candid thoughts of both Nicky and Meggy through the dual point-of-view narration. The open-door love scenes are well done, and the secondary characters are well drawn and become integral to the central story. These are all great things about the book. However, this is only a three star read for me because the series of misunderstandings at the heart of the story’s main conflicts, the rigidity of Meggy’s expectations and thinking, and the reckless reactions Nicky has to Meggy’s reluctance to love him, all make this a frustrating read. Having one or two of these frustrating situations might’ve worked, but there were too many to count. And while Nicky seems to grow from his experiences during the novel, Meggy just seems to get more rigid. I’m not sure why she expected a guarantee of success with Nicky and not from her other suitors and the illogic of this way of thinking grated. In any case, the frustrating bits detracted from my enjoyment. Still deciding if I’ll continue on the to the second book or not.
This should have been a four or five star read for me. Felicity George writes well with deep echoes of Jane Austen in her style. The storytelling is modernized, though, and we get to see the candid thoughts of both Nicky and Meggy through the dual point-of-view narration. The open-door love scenes are well done, and the secondary characters are well drawn and become integral to the central story. These are all great things about the book. However, this is only a three star read for me because the series of misunderstandings at the heart of the story’s main conflicts, the rigidity of Meggy’s expectations and thinking, and the reckless reactions Nicky has to Meggy’s reluctance to love him, all make this a frustrating read. Having one or two of these frustrating situations might’ve worked, but there were too many to count. And while Nicky seems to grow from his experiences during the novel, Meggy just seems to get more rigid. I’m not sure why she expected a guarantee of success with Nicky and not from her other suitors and the illogic of this way of thinking grated. In any case, the frustrating bits detracted from my enjoyment. Still deciding if I’ll continue on the to the second book or not.
December 7, 2022
I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher. This in no way impacted on my view.
When Lady Margaret learns that her older half brother has died, she expects that she and her siblings, Henry and Sophia, will be even more down on their luck. Used to Edwin ignoring them, she never expected he would leave the family in the care of a known rake, and the title basically destitute. So when Nicholas Burton, Marquess of Holbrook, arrives, and has ideas about how Henry should be reared before he reaches his majority, and about Lady Margaret marrying, he has another thing coming. Meggy and Nicholas butt heads again and again, but as they grew more comfortable with each other, and realise that they have more in common than they might expect, sparks fly, and soon Meggy is risking it all.
I loved the concept of this book, and felt like it was executed so well. Meggy and Nicholas' every scene together were fantastic, and they grew so much. Nicholas, as a Marquess, had a lot of pressure on his plate, and hated the fact he made a deathbed promise to Edwin to care for his siblings. He expected to turn up and see an unattractive woman and two hellions, so meeting Margaret, Henry, and Sophia was a shock. He's drawn to Meggy like he's never been before, and though she tries to deny it, she feels the same. This book is 400 pages, and a lot happens, but it never felt like a chore to read. I just devoured it, page after page, and seeing the feelings blossom and bloom, and Nicholas feel envy and jealousy over Meggy getting the attention she rightly deserved was hilarious. A great start to a new series.
When Lady Margaret learns that her older half brother has died, she expects that she and her siblings, Henry and Sophia, will be even more down on their luck. Used to Edwin ignoring them, she never expected he would leave the family in the care of a known rake, and the title basically destitute. So when Nicholas Burton, Marquess of Holbrook, arrives, and has ideas about how Henry should be reared before he reaches his majority, and about Lady Margaret marrying, he has another thing coming. Meggy and Nicholas butt heads again and again, but as they grew more comfortable with each other, and realise that they have more in common than they might expect, sparks fly, and soon Meggy is risking it all.
I loved the concept of this book, and felt like it was executed so well. Meggy and Nicholas' every scene together were fantastic, and they grew so much. Nicholas, as a Marquess, had a lot of pressure on his plate, and hated the fact he made a deathbed promise to Edwin to care for his siblings. He expected to turn up and see an unattractive woman and two hellions, so meeting Margaret, Henry, and Sophia was a shock. He's drawn to Meggy like he's never been before, and though she tries to deny it, she feels the same. This book is 400 pages, and a lot happens, but it never felt like a chore to read. I just devoured it, page after page, and seeing the feelings blossom and bloom, and Nicholas feel envy and jealousy over Meggy getting the attention she rightly deserved was hilarious. A great start to a new series.
December 16, 2022
This is not a very well developed book. It's reviewed highly so perhaps I came in with unfairly high expectations, but I thought it was terrible. My overall impression was that the characters, the plot- the whole book really, is rather immature. Meggy and Nicky (awful name pairing) are two emotionally stunted people who bring out the worst in each other and not in a fun way.
Meggy's parents died years ago, leaving her wastrel of a brother, Edwin, to squander their family name and fortune while she raised their much younger siblings. Now, Edwin has died, and he has asked Nicky, the only friend he has, to be co-guardian of the children and to help Meggy find a husband.
Meggy and Nicky quickly get into an amorous situation, but when they're interrupted by a serving woman/prostitue, Meggy misinterprets the situation and thinks Nicky was using her while he waited for the woman to arrive. Meggy decides to harden her heart against Nicky, who has all of a sudden gone from a man telling her not to trust him, to a weeping mess of a man who can't stop confessing his love.
I didn't buy their attraction to each other or their friendship and Nicky's backstory was so stupid that I couldn't believe I was even reading it.
Neither Meggy or Nicky are very likable and I was desperate for this to end. The writing is juvenile, the romance is flat and the story itself was boring. Hard pass from me.
Meggy's parents died years ago, leaving her wastrel of a brother, Edwin, to squander their family name and fortune while she raised their much younger siblings. Now, Edwin has died, and he has asked Nicky, the only friend he has, to be co-guardian of the children and to help Meggy find a husband.
Meggy and Nicky quickly get into an amorous situation, but when they're interrupted by a serving woman/prostitue, Meggy misinterprets the situation and thinks Nicky was using her while he waited for the woman to arrive. Meggy decides to harden her heart against Nicky, who has all of a sudden gone from a man telling her not to trust him, to a weeping mess of a man who can't stop confessing his love.
I didn't buy their attraction to each other or their friendship and Nicky's backstory was so stupid that I couldn't believe I was even reading it.
Neither Meggy or Nicky are very likable and I was desperate for this to end. The writing is juvenile, the romance is flat and the story itself was boring. Hard pass from me.
January 28, 2024
If you love the drama of complicated romantic emotions and the warmth and affection of a fictional family, this will definitely hit the spot. The historical aspect is so wonderfully researched but never feels like an info dump. One of the things I loved most was the fresh way the characters were both products of their time but with human desires and reactions which we can relate to in modern times. There is a lot of angst and push-pulling between Nicholas & Meggy, both of which is understandable given their pasts, but the attraction is there from the outset and runs hot! Nicholas works really hard to grow and I think I loved his bond with the kids as much as with Meggy! I also loved the hint at secondary characters stories yet to come…
November 6, 2022
Was stuck for a read and this was in the house, not my usual genre but thoroughly unashamedly enjoyed it. Don't wanna spoil the plot, only to say its a period romantic novel from a modern female perspective. Then again I'm a guy and this isn't my usual material. Can't recommend it enough
November 29, 2023
Well written and though I do plan to read any future books by the author I absolutely could not stand the heroine in this one from nearly beginning to end.
December 20, 2022
Regency romance
Meggy’s ne’er do good brother has died leaving Meggy and her much younger brother and sister in the care of her brother’s friend Lord Holbrook. With their fortune squandered Meggy (otherwise known as Lady Fairchild) has only one goal, that is to find a good, safe, reliable husband to ensure the future of herself and her two siblings. If only life were that simple, and if only Lord Holbrook wasn’t quite so good looking!
Beginning in September 1812, the reader is whisked into a world of grandeur in Suffolk and London – but underneath life is not as beautiful as a quick glance would have us believe. People are not all that they seem, mysteries from the past refuse to remain hidden, and finding an acceptable husband proves troublesome.
The story is very much about Meggy and Lord Holbrook, Meggy seemingly good in every way and Lord Holbrook a rake and a scoundrel. Emotions rise and fall, suitors visit, and sometimes there are steamy encounters.
A great book, but the wrong genre for me. I enjoyed learning more about the social norms of these times, and Meggy as a character, and the predicament she found herself in, was great. I did find the opening pages a little stilted, as the scene was set, but very quickly this turned into an enjoyable and immersive read. Perfect for lovers of Regency period romance, with strong characters, moral dilemmas and bedroom encounters.
Meggy’s ne’er do good brother has died leaving Meggy and her much younger brother and sister in the care of her brother’s friend Lord Holbrook. With their fortune squandered Meggy (otherwise known as Lady Fairchild) has only one goal, that is to find a good, safe, reliable husband to ensure the future of herself and her two siblings. If only life were that simple, and if only Lord Holbrook wasn’t quite so good looking!
Beginning in September 1812, the reader is whisked into a world of grandeur in Suffolk and London – but underneath life is not as beautiful as a quick glance would have us believe. People are not all that they seem, mysteries from the past refuse to remain hidden, and finding an acceptable husband proves troublesome.
The story is very much about Meggy and Lord Holbrook, Meggy seemingly good in every way and Lord Holbrook a rake and a scoundrel. Emotions rise and fall, suitors visit, and sometimes there are steamy encounters.
A great book, but the wrong genre for me. I enjoyed learning more about the social norms of these times, and Meggy as a character, and the predicament she found herself in, was great. I did find the opening pages a little stilted, as the scene was set, but very quickly this turned into an enjoyable and immersive read. Perfect for lovers of Regency period romance, with strong characters, moral dilemmas and bedroom encounters.
January 4, 2023
I’m not a huge fan of Regency romance and have read very few -not even Ms Austen. Not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing when it comes to reading this book!
It is a well written tale and obviously the author has done her research. I found it refreshing that Meggy is a character alive to her sexuality and desires and is not afraid to act on them rather than some innocent simpering wallflower.
I can’t say that I really warmed to any of the characters though finding them all quite annoying and their actions baffling in places.
The story focuses very much on Meggy & Lord Holbrook and their fallings out and makings up which happened a bit too often for me. I also wish their attraction had been a bit of a slower burn rather than so immediate.
I don’t think this was the book to convert me to regency romance (if one does exist) but I would recommend this book to those who are fans of the genre
It is a well written tale and obviously the author has done her research. I found it refreshing that Meggy is a character alive to her sexuality and desires and is not afraid to act on them rather than some innocent simpering wallflower.
I can’t say that I really warmed to any of the characters though finding them all quite annoying and their actions baffling in places.
The story focuses very much on Meggy & Lord Holbrook and their fallings out and makings up which happened a bit too often for me. I also wish their attraction had been a bit of a slower burn rather than so immediate.
I don’t think this was the book to convert me to regency romance (if one does exist) but I would recommend this book to those who are fans of the genre
April 14, 2023
As someone who has a weakness for Regency Romance I was in parts excited for this, and worried that it wouldn't be what I expected. I needn't have worried. If I hadn't know it was a debut, I would never have believed that it was the author's first published HR. Written with a keen eye to historical research yet not at all heavy handed, it takes the reader into the homes and hearts of the Regency upper classes and makes you feel very at home with all the characters. You expect certain plot markers in a Romance (nothing goes to plan, misunderstandings, etc) and this debut delivers these with a delicate hand so you feel comfortable with where the story is going, yet are still pleasantly surprised with the way the author delivers the solutions. There are enough spicey scenes to make the story feel more realistic (the Georgians gave a new meaning to debauchery) yet written in such a way as to not be salacious or gratuitous. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and gave it 5 stars.
April 14, 2023
As someone who has a weakness for Regency Romance I was in parts excited for this, and worried that it wouldn't be what I expected. I needn't have worried. If I hadn't know it was a debut, I would never have believed that it was the author's first published HR. Written with a keen eye to historical research yet not at all heavy handed, it takes the reader into the homes and hearts of the Regency upper classes and makes you feel very at home with all the characters. You expect certain plot markers in a Romance (nothing goes to plan, misunderstandings, etc) and this debut delivers these with a delicate hand so you feel comfortable with where the story is going, yet are still pleasantly surprised with the way the author delivers the solutions. There are enough spicey scenes to make the story feel more realistic (the Georgians gave a new meaning to debauchery) yet written in such a way as to not be salacious or gratuitous. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and gave it 5 stars.
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