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Improper Agreements #2

An Improper Gentleman

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“And do not worry,” he said, giving her a knowing glance. “The hand is purely a formality. There shall be no touching.”

Bridget has learned not to trust an easy smile or flattering tongue, and Lord Archibald has both in spades. To make her time with him at Brookside Manor more tolerable–and to use it to her benefit–she agrees to do one activity with him every day in exchange for a fact about their host, Lord Eaton. However, she will only agree on one condition: there must be no touching of any kind.

Archie is used to young women swooning whenever he is near, so Miss Hall’s obvious reticence intrigues him. He has never had to prove himself and is more than willing to try to win her over. Much to his chagrin, his efforts only seem to make him look foolish while in her company.

When a woman once scorned refuses to fall victim to charm, and a man of leisure finds himself falling short at every turn, a hilarious battle of wills ensues.


An Improper Gentleman is a clean romance and is the second book in the Improper Agreements series. It can be read as a stand-alone but is best enjoyed in order.

271 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 28, 2023

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About the author

Audra Wells

13 books241 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 182 reviews
Profile Image for Milena Bookish❤️.
292 reviews146 followers
June 20, 2023
Audra Wells did it again! If you haven't read An improper Agreement you'll know what I'm talking about, it's a must-read. Absolutely delightful! Do yourself a favor and check both out, I promise you’ll love it.

"I do not know how it is possible that I have had such an effect on you, my lord". "And that, my lady is precisely why you have affected me so".


Grumpy/Sunshine. Regency romance done right! The tension and sweetness you want in a story--almost all those touches-- great chemistry. Bridget and Archie are very opposite--she's been hurt before so she is cautious and mistrusting of all men-- Archie's filtrations personality is easy-going and lovable. A fun book to read, with plenty of hilarious settings. Highly Recommend it.

Dual POV, Clean Read, Kisses only, nothing further.

Thank you Audra Wells for the eARC, I am blessed to read your book. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lauren (thebookscript).
927 reviews663 followers
September 12, 2023
Audra Wells truly has one of my favorite historical romance writing voices. Her books are just so delightful and charming and every time I pick one up its very hard to put down.

An Improper Gentleman is full of wits and extremely stubborn wills. I absolutely adored getting to see my favorite characters from book one and their interactions with our new couple.

ARCHIE, how I love thee. Archie is truly just the sweetest, happiest MMC. He's the kind of character that everyone wants at their party, but no one takes seriously, AND THEY SHOULD. Honestly I feel for every moment he appeared on these pages. He was such a genuine character and always wore his heart on his sleeve. I really appreciate a man who fight for a woman with steadfastness and loyalty.

Bridget has been burned by love and the perception of that experience has ruined her for trying again. As Archie tries to slowly melt away her icy exterior, she does not make it easy for him. I did love so many moments Bridget get to examine why she can't trust again, and there was an especially delightful sibling scene that was so lovely to read. As much as she makes Archie fight for her, and as much as he proves himself over and over, I just wish she would have given him a little more courtesy and fought for him in return. There was a missed moment for that and it just hurt me a bit. haha I just don't think he deserved the constant dismissal.

BUT OH MY GOSH. kissing scenes, tension scenes, so many lovely sweet moments that really made me still adore and savor the story.

I think that overall this was a really sweet, fun read and I cannot wait to see what Audra does next because I will definitely be reading it.
865 reviews10 followers
July 22, 2024
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year because I loved Archie in An Improper Agreement and I hate giving this two stars. I couldn’t wait to see Archie’s story, but this fell flat for me. These two did not get to know each other at all before professing their love and it showed because there was no trust between them. I liked Archie on his own when he was interacting with Wesley or Clara, but in his interactions with Bridget they felt forced. He teased her over and over about things that she asked him not to (like her notebook) and spent so much time trying to get her to smile and not give him dirty looks that they never really had “getting to know you” conversations.

I found Bridget pretty unlikeable. Yes she had her reason for closing herself off and not trusting people, but it was so weird how she blamed every male on the planet. She went after Wesley when he had been nothing but kind to her AND Clara (her “best” friend) told her again and again that she was happy. Bridget just came off as negative and honestly a bit of a brat at times. Ugh I dunno! I couldn’t figure out why Archie liked her. She hardly spoke to him for most of the book and when she did she wasn’t very nice, and he spent most of the time trying to prove something to her so she’d be nice to him. I just didn’t understand the effort and didn’t get why Bridget felt like she could treat him poorly as though he owed her something when she didn’t even know him.

The kicker for me was after Archie put so much energy into getting her to trust him and THEN he invaded her privacy even though she repeatedly asked him not to. I couldn’t believe it! Then Bridget says she trusts him and then makes decision after decision proving she doesn’t trust him at all.

Bridget is not ready for a relationship. Honestly I got to the end feeling like there is no way these two would work unless Archie completely stops being himself (aka outgoing and carefree) which shouldn’t have to happen or Bridget completely changes, which won’t happen. Archie deserves better than someone he will have to tip toe around constantly and Bridget needs to take some more time to sort through her issues before being in a relationship with anyone.

I did enjoy getting to catch up with Wesley and Clara though so the two stars are mostly for them!
Profile Image for Melissa’s Bookshelf.
2,524 reviews177 followers
February 28, 2023
Absolutely amazing! This is my first book by Audra Wells and definitely won’t be my last! I loved the premise of this book. Take a suspicious somewhat embittered best friend, a sunshiny flirtatious gentleman, a deal, and plenty of swoonworthy moments, and you have the makings for a great Regency! I could not put this book down. From the darling meet cute, to the witty dialogue, to the rain storm scene, this book completely drew me in and did not let go.

Bridget is the grump in this grumpy/sunshine trope. Though to be fair, she has a reason to be a bit bitter and suspicious of men. Her first love turned out to be a cad and since then she’s sworn off the male species. Suspicious of her best friend’s marriage, she’s determined to ferret out the truth when she comes to visit. Unfortunately, Lord Archibald has come to visit as well. From their first meeting, Bridget is both repelled and attracted to the lighthearted, too handsome for his own good Lord. When he offers her a deal she can’t refuse, the fun begins.

Archie is determined to make Bridget smile. She seems much too serious and brooding. Then there’s the curious little notebook she’s always carrying around and jotting things in. He is genuinely drawn to the woman who unlike every other woman doesn’t fall at his feet. Can he win her trust and esteem? From a disastrous boat ride to apple tossing to rain storms, Archie slowly worms his way into her heart. But when the other guests arrive, will he be able to convince her of his love?

Loved this slow burn, opposites attract romance! I love it when the man is the sunshiny character to the female grump. Archie is the perfect tease, flirt, fun loving, witty guy that makes this romance so much fun. But, he’s completely sincere and I loved the way he helped Bridget open up, trust, and find love. From the beginning, I was rooting for these two.

It’s a fun Regency tale that was a joy to read! Though it’s the second book in the series, it can definitely be read as a standalone. I can’t wait to read the first book in the series. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author. All opinions are my own and I was not required to provide a positive review.
Profile Image for thelilcloseddoorbookgal.
134 reviews3 followers
October 21, 2025
Archie is a 10/10. Loved rereading this😌 It was the lighthearted but also a little emotional read I wanted.
Profile Image for N.
140 reviews110 followers
August 26, 2023
Do not let me ruin your fun if you want a very readable, opposites attract, grumpy heroine/sunshine hero, no-external-conflict, fun little romp. And I must tell you, this story has lots of playful banter and, most significantly, highly memorable scenes of very cinematic, palpable tension. That “no touch” rule with a benign rake is highly effective, and the lauded first kiss scene delivered, let me tell you. If that’s enough for you, by all means, give it a shot.

Don’t mind me; I’m self-compelled to spell out my grievances. I loved the first book so much, I just had to immediately see about Lord Archibald’s comeuppance. And, yet, in expectation of certain aspects that I felt were not fulfilled, it pretty much had me complaining the rest of the way.

I rationally understand that they can’t all be inner-turmoil brooders, but I really thought we’d get some hidden depths from the unapologetic flirt. Just like with moody BFF Eaton, to me Archie is shown to be no more than the faithful golden retriever that lives for chasing around and working for smiles from grumpys who mostly find him an annoyance. And with not much to recommend guarded, high-strung Bridget beyond her severe trust issues, few things make me end a romance with a “Meh” than when I’m left both thinking “This could’ve been a novella” AND “She does not deserve him”. The meet cute was perfect for their characterizations, but then the third act drama was beyond expected (and this is from a romance reader, I thrive on expected). One-sided animosity plus He Falls First? We needed a significant reciprocation gesture from her, not a grudging white flag, so the HEA did not feel satisfying or secure.

Would definitely read more from this author, this one just did not win me over.

Content notes: kissing only, unwanted advances from secondary character, lots of on page betrayal trauma.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Latisha Sexton.
Author 11 books399 followers
February 25, 2023
Oh my goodness...this book! I was a little over halfway through and I was like, "yeah, this is a 4-star for sure." And then towards the end...that scene! 😍😍No spoilers here, but that scene took this up to a solid 5-stars. Oh my.

I adored Archie. He is all things sunshiney and such a fun character. He's the sunshine to Bridget's grumpy. But she's not a true grump. She has reasons for ignoring Archie's charms. I loved how he didn't let her wallow in her misery and that he did everything in his power to bring out her smiles.

Really and truly, this to me could be classified as a regency romcom. I laughed so much and when I wasn't laughing, I had the widest smile on my face. I will definitely be going back to read the first book in the series and any others that the author writes!

**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

Profile Image for Kristalyne, love.lovely.books love.lovely.books.
235 reviews45 followers
March 7, 2023
‘An Improper Gentleman’ by Audra Wells, book 2 in the Improper Agreements series:

“Then why do you keep trying so hard?” “Because your smiles are something I crave. Each one is like a gift, and if all I can do for the day is simply make you smile, then I feel like I have accomplished something of incredible value.”

Oh my goodness this book is wonderful! I loved it! I loved watching Archie and Bridget slowly fall in love. I loved the laugh out loud moments, the sweet moments, and the swoony moments! I loved the beautiful writing, amazing characters, the sweetest lines and story that pulled me in from the start!

Archie is used to easily charming ladies but Bridget is not like other ladies!

She is determined to not be charmed by him and he’s determined to charm her. A deal brings them together and the fun adventures they go on were a joy to read!

My favorite part of this book was Archie wanting to make Bridget happy! He was such a sweet gentleman who wouldn’t give up on her! He completely melted me! Bridget had a lot to deal with, and her character growth was so lovely to watch. These two were adorable together and their love story really touched my heart.

Read for:
🍎 the BEST meet cute
🍎memorable moments including a boat ride, a wink, apples, and a rainstorm
🍎”Fight for me.”
🍎a house party
🍎grumpy heroine and sunshine hero
🍎opposites attract
🍎Clara and Wesley from book 1!!!!
🍎Swoony kisses and romance
🍎Fun, entertaining, page turner!

Audra Wells has written such a lovely Regency Romance that I really enjoyed getting lost in! I loved so much about this book and I highly recommend it. I think you’ll love it too!

Thank you to the author for the ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Holly (IG Hollys_Book_Musings).
385 reviews64 followers
July 1, 2025
"Now," Bridget continued. "What were you saying?"
"That you have yet to tell me your affections."
"Ah, yes. Much to my chagrin, I seem to have fallen in love with you."
"That doesn't sound very romantic." He shook his head. "Say it nicer."

An Improper Gentleman by Audra Wells

An Improper Gentleman was a swoon-worthy sequel to book 1 in this delightful series!
I absolutely loved Archie's character. Yes, he is a bit of a cad, but he reforms his ways when he meets Bridget. He might become a tad smitten!
I was a bit frustrated with Bridget at first, but I came to enjoy her character the more I listened. I loved her loyalty and concern toward Clara.

They have a hilarious meet cute, I loved the fishing scene and throwing apples. And running in the rain! One of my favorite things growing up in the Midwest USA was running in the rain, so I imagined that part vividly, minus the running in Regency era clothing.

Another fabulous book by Audra Wells! The Improper series is quickly becoming one of my favorite series! The audio for this one was excellent!

Favorite Parts:
Meet cute
Fishing
Archie
Throwing apples
Poetry and grass
Horseback riding
The kiss
The ending

Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: character was a bit of a player in his past (nothing is detailed, but there is discussion about it), kissing
Violence/gore: none
Substance Use: side character smokes pipe briefly
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: none

Book Info:
Series: Improper series book 2
Genre: Regency Romcom
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: Available Now-Hoopla, Audible, other Audiobook platforms
Audio Publisher: Podium Entertainment
Narrators: Elizabeth Knowelden & Benjamin Crow
POV: dual
Profile Image for Jeanine Reed.
599 reviews20 followers
February 22, 2024
“Fight for me.” ~ Bridget

This moment! This beautiful, vulnerable statement; a tender, agonizing plea, a cry for help, to be free from doubt, to be free to love again, a yearning for her defenses to crumble, for him to not give up. That is all it took, all Archie needed to bolster his resolve.

The Archie we know from AIA is flirtatious, nonchalant, not-to-be taken seriously, the life of the party. But in this book we get to see a whole different side of Archie. He is genuine, caring, relentless, admirable, and has an unbelievable amount of restraint. Poor man endures so much temptation, but never once goes back on his word.

No woman has intrigued him as far as courtships go and no woman has ever resisted his charms. Until Bridget. He is determined to get to know her, to turn her frown upside down, to help her enjoy life. A challenge he is more than willing to undertake.

Hilarious outings abound. Poor attempts at fishing and boating, an unintended race, terrible lessons in apple throwing. Bridget can’t seem to shake him. And Archie pursues her with such openness and honesty and joy. Of all his ploys, the dancing and rainy day secret are my favorite! What woman could resist him after that!

Such a beautiful, sweet, and endearing story of friendship and love. Never has one book been so full of no physical touching and still make you go weak in the knees!
Profile Image for Cait | GoodeyReads.
2,752 reviews647 followers
April 20, 2025
LOVE THE BANTER.

BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK

Two books read from Audra Wells and I am becoming an absolute fan. I love the way she writes banter and dialogue between the love interests. It’s cheeky, yet there’s so much sincerity as the romance develops that the swoon factor is also high.

I did want to shake the FMC a little bit towards the end. I understood her difficulty trusting, but I thought she’d stop running away at last. With very little change in setting I thought the plot moved well. It’s short and fast paced and I loooved Archie. The opposites attract was in full force here and I love love love when there’s lots of forced proximity.

Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
Profile Image for Michelle Angus.
185 reviews11 followers
March 3, 2023
I just knew I would love this book! When I saw that this book was Archies story, I was SO excited! I loved Archie from the last book “An Improper Agreement”. I was also excited to finally meet Bridget, as you only get a small snippet into who she is in the first book. All that being said, you will adore Bridget and Archies story!!

Archie is a laid back, charismatic second son. He doesn’t really have any worries, is popular with the women, is charming and good looking. He is almost always smiling and is constantly handing out compliments.

Bridget is hesitant and weary and keeps men at a distance. She doesn’t trust easily and frowns specifically at Archie quite on a regular basis. She is beautiful, and caring towards those she loves but has a very guarded heart.

When Archie and Bridget meet, you just know something is up. And when they are left to themselves and are forced together, Bridget takes matters into her own hands to ensure Archie behaves himself. There are too many funny moments in this book, and oh so many swooney quotes that you will be in a book hangover once you are done. I am patiently awaiting Book #3.

*I received a copy of this book as an ARC reviewer, but a positive review wasn’t required. All thoughts are solely what I personally thought of this beautiful book. Thank You Audra for being such an amazing person! You are truly amazing!!
Profile Image for Meagan.
236 reviews14 followers
July 6, 2024
When I read An Improper Agreement, I immediately spammed Audra about wanting a book for Archie. I just knew he’d make a good main character. ☺️ (she kindly let me know his book was next)
Anyway, the review, Archie is so lovable and used to being perceived a certain way. When Bridget doesn’t fall for his charms, Archie is intrigued.
I love the way Archie tries to bring Bridget around to liking him. I love the way he is with Bridget. He is so kind and understanding when Bridget’s anxiety and fear get the better of her. I love Bridget’s character arc, because I think it’s realistic. Maybe not what everyone wants to happen, but I relate to her circumstances. It endears her to me.
If you like clean historical romance with comedic elements, found family, and opposites attract vibes, put this on your TBR.

Thank you for the ARC, Audra Wells. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kylaslittlelibrary.
583 reviews30 followers
February 22, 2023
An Improper Gentleman by Audra Wells

Second book in the “Improper” series and it does not disappoint. It can be read alone but I suggest reading An Improper Agreement first because the characters from that book play a large roll in this one.

Aw, Archie, let me count the ways I love thee. 🤣 He was such a fun character in the first book and I was so excited for him to get his own. He is still the same fun loving flirt we’ve glimpsed but now we get to see his point of view. His patience is one of the things I love most about him.

Bridget is a woman who has be scorned by love before and swears never to be taken in so completely again. She is careful and protective of her heart and you can’t help but feel for her. As she slowly warms up to Archie we get to see her really come alive. Her character arc is beautiful, making this happily ever after all the more fulfilling.

It’s not romance without the tension and this book delivers. Pull out your fans now and prepare yourself. (It’s a clean read but you know what I mean 🤣.)

Anyway, this is me shouting at you to read this book. Just do it.


Content: kisses


I received a complimentary copy of this story, in no way does that affect my opinion. All thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Morgan Giesbrecht.
Author 2 books179 followers
January 23, 2025
Regency house parties were serious matrimonial battlefields! But I love it when they work out for the best.

Archie was a lovable, goofy golden retriever, who’s a bit of a rake. Not so much that you despise him, but enough that he needs to charge course. Bridget was the cool, reserved black cat with her heart under lock, key, and deadbolt. I oscillated between loving her and wanting to shake her when she ran out of fear, but then I look in the mirror and see we’re very much alike in our gunshot attitudes. So I love Archie for her.

Also, shoutout to Wesley & Clara making an appearance, and the sweetest sister relationship between Bridget and Violet! So glad we will be getting Violet’s story!
Profile Image for Samantha Ball.
Author 6 books18 followers
November 20, 2023
Loved it!

I knew I would love this book, and I did! Archie made me swoon and laugh. Bridget was so stubborn, but I secretly loved how she guarded her heart. The flirty banter, the conditions to the agreement between Archie and Bridget, and Archive's incredible patience and persistence spurred me on to find out how he would win her heart and trust. This is a book I would read again. Love this author.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Sharlee.
130 reviews
February 28, 2025
I was really hoping that Archie was going to be in this book! And he did not disappoint. His hopeful and smiley attitude rubbed off even through the pages and had me smiling the entire time. His connection with Bridget was palpable. And that dancing scene in the parlor … uhhhh the tension.

The one liners though … “Fight for me.” I mean COME ON!!

I really felt for Bridget and her pain. I understood why she was so guarded and I loved seeing her character grow.

Sometimes the overly happy MMC's can be a hit or miss for me. Because I do like some grit and some background into my characters. And although there's not a ton on Archie I LOVED that Bridget called him on some things. And I LOVED that he took it to heart. His growth was lovely to see. They truly complimented one another.

This is a story of healing, of laughter and of love.

Read if you like:
-Historical romance
-Opposites attract
-Broken trust
-Healing
-Witty banter
-Laugh out loud moments
-Fast pace
-Multiple POV

Plot: 5 stars
Character Development: 5 stars
Romance: 5 stars
Writing Style: 5 stars
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Spoiler alerts:
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Trigger warnings: Betrayal. Loss of trust. Just kissing, closed door romance.
Profile Image for Berly.
774 reviews25 followers
February 8, 2025
This is the second book in the Improper Agreements series. It's a kisses only regency era romance. It has a standalone story, but characters that are prominent in this book were introduced in the first one. Do yourself a favor and read them in order. That way you'll get more of Archie's background too.

It's a lovely book with humor and growth. I actually read the ebook off of my TBR. If you know me, that is high praise!
Profile Image for Sara Grace.
353 reviews5 followers
September 27, 2024
I love regency sequels with character overlap. Forced proximity with a requirement of 1 fun activity a day? Ok propriety, I see you being thrown out the WINDOW! Archie supposedly knows how to fish… Bridget, perhaps a secret romance novelist, definitely knows how to fish. But who will fall overboard in-love first I wonder?? *blond MMC , first for everything*
Profile Image for Sydney.
470 reviews161 followers
March 8, 2023
This was really fun! I didn't click with the story like I wanted to, but I enjoyed the time I spent with it and I would definitely say it is worth a read if you're looking for something sweet and light. :)
Profile Image for Matisse Balazs (always_reading_romance).
68 reviews16 followers
February 27, 2023
Reasons why you should read this amazing regency romance:
1. Archie

That's it!... well he's the main reason to read this story. Especially if you love flirtatious fictional men.

I loved Archie and how much he cared for Bridget and tries to get her to forget about her past pain when it comes to love! She tries to ignore his charms because of this pain, but no woman can ignore a man like Archie for long! He is seriously one of my favorite leading men! 😍

The tension and chemistry between these two was very well written! I don't usually prefer friends-to-lovers in a romance novel but Audra did a wonderful job developing the connection between her two characters. I absolutely loved her first book in this series and these books just keep getting better! If you haven't read An Improper Agreement, you definitely should before reading this one!

Thank you Audra for allowing me to read an advanced reader's copy of An Improper Gentleman in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Katie Powell.
162 reviews37 followers
April 2, 2023
This is a fun story also. Archie is so “adorable” in his pursuit of Bridget. His determination to win her over is admirable. He’s not perfect and I can understand why Bridget hesitates to believe his sincerity in pursuing her, but I’m not really a fan of bitter, cranky heroines. She is quite harsh towards Archie and Wesley by judging them before getting to know them and she really annoyed me for most of the book. I think her response to being hurt by one man was a bit extreme. I will say their first kiss is probably the most romantic first kiss I have ever read. That kiss and Archie’s character make this book a must-read. I also enjoyed seeing a continuation of Clara and Wesley’s love story.
367 reviews13 followers
February 10, 2023
Just finished this book! *happy sigh!*

I LOVE ARCHIE! He's the sweetest, cutest flirt and I loved his tenderness and patience with Bridget! He was willing to wait for her and fight for her and he lived to make her smile! Loved him!

This is a sweet story of a man working to break down the walls around a woman's heart who was hurt in the past.

This book is-
•reverse grumpy-sunshine
•reformed flirt
•house party
•forced proximity
•"we must have rules for our friendship.."
•great tension
•fun daily excursions
•kisses in the rain

If you enjoy regency romance definitely check out this series! This book can also be read as a stand alone!
Profile Image for Amy Beth.
263 reviews39 followers
April 2, 2023
She agreed to do one fun activity a day with him but with a condition: he is not to touch her.

It’s really amazing how the majority of this book can have almost no physical contact between the two main characters and the reader can still feel the anguish and longing between them. Audra Wells brought the tension! It’s there in the stolen glances, the breathy words, and the almost touches. And when they finally kiss, boy is it good!! I just absolutely loved this book!

Bridget is cautious when it comes to love. She’s been hurt before and has built a wall around her heart.

“She knew just what an attractive face could hide, and she had learned her lesson. Never again would she fall victim to a man’s charms.”

Archie… What can I say about Archie. He’s a flirtatious, smooth talker who doesn’t take life too seriously. He’s use to women falling for him but when he meets Bridget, he suddenly finds himself being clumsy and stumbling over words.

“Never in his life had he been unsure of what to say to a woman. He knew how to make women respond to him with a simple smile, but in this moment, he was stuttering like a young schoolboy who had never even spoken with a girl.”

I absolutely loved these two together. I loved how Archie ardently pursued Bridget. She was determined not to fall for his charms but those walls she built slowly start to crumble and when they do it’s magic!

One of my favorite parts of this book is the continued friendship between Archie and Wesley. I love their good-natured banter. And it just warmed my heart to see Wesley and Clara so happy together!

This is book 2 in the Improper Agreement series. This can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend reading An Improper Agreement first. It’s so fun when you know the back story for all the side characters! Both books in this series have been 5 star books for me!

Thanks to the author for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Courtney | Bookish Beach Babe.
489 reviews53 followers
February 28, 2023
“𝘐 𝘥𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸 𝘩𝘰𝘸 𝘪𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘩 𝘢𝘯 𝘦𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘰𝘯 𝘺𝘰𝘶, 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘰𝘳𝘥.”

“𝘼𝙣𝙙 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵, 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙖𝙙𝙮, 𝙞𝙨 𝙥𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙞𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙝𝙮 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙖𝙛𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙚 𝙨𝙤.”

Archie and Bridget were so much fun! I knew Archie’s story was going to be a treat after meeting him in An Improper Agreement. How could you not love a golden retriever in human form?! Still, it was a bit satisfying to see him brought down a few notches by frosty Bridget! These two couldn’t have been more opposite and this made for some great banter.

I loved Archie and the comedic relief he brought to the angsty moments in this story. However, it was Bridget who stole the show for me. She put up a fortress around her heart after having it broken by a supposed gentleman. Her determination to protect herself was so endearing; my heart simply ached for her. But Archie was so delicate with her and it was so much fun to watch the ice thaw around Bridget’s heart. I really enjoyed how they both helped each other to grow as individuals which ultimately brought them together. I also loved the sweet bond between Bridget and her sister Violet. I highly recommend this sweet and swoony historical romance!

Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. My thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Jessica Harrison.
534 reviews14 followers
July 28, 2025
This is an adorable book! It’s so sweet and feel-good, I absolutely loved it. I won’t claim it’s terribly deep, but I had a smile on my face for nearly the entire book.

This is a regency sunshine/grump romance, with the FMC being the grump. She was previously burned in a relationship with an insincere man, and has developed an absurd distrust for all men. In fact, she has come to Brookside Manor with the sole purpose of rooting out any deception or unworthiness in her friend’s new husband (Lord Eaton from book 1). Bridget’s irrational suspicion and paranoia should be unrealistic in its ridiculousness, but instead I found it humorous and almost endearing.

Our MMC, Archie, is a blast. He’s outgoing and charming, and a magnet for the fairer sex (as we saw in book 1). He finds Bridget’s icy exterior intriguing and becomes determined to crack her code. His charm is exactly what our FMC needs, and I absolutely loved watching his persistent and awkward attempts to win her over.

There is little angst in this book, just excellent relationship development and fun banter. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to curl up with a smile… I also highly recommend the audiobook as it’s quite exceptional and both narrators are perfect.

Though I recommend starting with book 1 to fully appreciate the characters and context, I think this book could still be read and fully enjoyed as a standalone.

Content:
There’s no foul language, sex, or violence. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of faith or God
Profile Image for Morgan (lostinthepages).
135 reviews8 followers
January 28, 2024
Another great book in the series! I’m not sure which I liked more so far!

Recap: Bridget is visiting Clara and Lord Eaton now that they are married. She is arriving before everyone else for a house party, only to discover Clara is under the weather.

After a run in with Archie, Lord Easton’s flirt of a best friend, Bridget quickly decides she will not fall victim to his charm, especially after having her heart broken by just such a man.

However, with Archie surprising their hosts by arriving early, Bridget either must spend time with him or be alone and bored.

I really appreciated how much of a gentleman Archie really is. Though he has a reputation, he goes above and beyond to prove to Bridget that he can be trusted. Each time they are together a bit of her reserve falls away, and I loved watching that. Also, the scene under the tree in the rain was😍

I’m really enjoying the series so far. Can’t wait for the next one!
Profile Image for Megan T..
117 reviews8 followers
February 20, 2023
Book: An Improper Gentleman
Author: Audra Wells
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Format: ebook
Genre: Regency
Spice: Clean Romance / Just Kissing
POV: Dual
Troupe: Grumpy (Bridget) vs Sunshine (Archie)

Don’t forget to slide to see what the book is about.

This book I’ve waited awhile for. What do I mean? When Archie was first introduced in the first book, I immediately believed we needed a book about him. GUESS WHAT?! She delivered!
Archie was everything we knew him to be in An Improper Agreement and even more in An Improper Gentleman!

I’ve highlighted so much on my kindle! So many swoon worthy moments.

I loved his persistence in pursing her while she pushed back in not wanting his attention. Even though in the beginning he just wanted her to learn to live, he realized he liked her push back.
I loved Bridget’s concern for Clara. She truly cared and wanted to make sure her friend was in a happy marriage.

Bridget learning to be vulnerable was something I could relate to. pushing down past hurts and building walls as a form is safety is easy, but learning to love is hard and very much worth it.

She learned that not everyone guy is the same. Archie learning that flirting isn’t always without strings.

I really liked how the tables turned with Archie and Wesley! Wesley was like the older brother not wanting Archie to get into trouble 🤣

Favorite moment:
The rain scene 😍
No touching dancing (seriously the BEST)
Library moments

Overall, this book is perfect for those moments you want a good clean cozy read!

I was blessed with this beautiful arc and the review is my own opinion.

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