I really liked Sophia Holloway’s writing style and had high hopes for this book at the start, but although I thought Sophy was a great character, I found Harriet and Susan quite dull and the male characters arrogant and irritating. The unlikeable characters dominated for me more than the storyline, which felt thin, until right at the end.

A pleasant read, but not really for me.

2 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Sophia Holloway and Allison & Busby for an ARC in return for an honest review.

I like Sophia Holloway's Regency novels. They always feel quite historically accurate and I personally enjoy a traditional smut-free romance where the brushing of ungloved fingers is about as charged as it gets. The start of this book felt a little clumsy as the situation was laid out - is 23 year old Sophy really on the shelf? It's not that old even in terms of Regency marriages. However once the story was set up and the characters were introduced, I found myself really enjoying it. The various gentlemen potential love interests in particular were drawn very well, as well as the frankly quite awful Susan. Overall this was an entertaining romance in the traditional style for those who love a slow burn.

Irrelevant to the plot of the book or how it is written, but I also want to add how much I love the covers of Sophia's novels too. I just find them so appealing.

An extremely good historical romance which I was sorry to come to the end of. I loved reading the old English words and seeing the developing feelings between the main characters and their family
. Sophy has the patience of Job where Susan is concerned and Edmond is in for a treat as he continues in his life with her. I wish Sophy and Hugh all the best in their future, and look forward to reading more from this author

This was another great Regency romance by Sophia Holloway in the style of Georgette Heyer. There are several girls at the London Season, Sophy (hating her real name Sophronia)who has to play chaperone to her younger sister Harriet and to her difficult cousin Susan, an apparent rake, a male friend and some other more or less pleasant or dangerous men. Complications in the family and the relationships developing at the balls and other events lead to delicate situations and happy endings to several couples. I loved the drawing of the different characters and the witty dialogues as well as the settings that are faithful to the Regency period. Read it over a short period, as it was so entertaining!
Thanks to Allison & Busby, the author Sophia Holloway and Netgalley for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review.

I just loved the main characters of Sophy and Rothly. I did feel sorry for Sophy, her mother had such firm ideas about Sophy., particularly her height being a problem. The cousin, Susan was one bundle of trouble, which unfortunately reflected on Sophy’s younger sister Harriet. Sophy and Rothly are attracted to each other but for some reason Sophy has been warned of him by her mother. There are some very romantic moments. Family background and upbringing play a large part in how certain people behave. This was a very engaging read, it moved along at a good pace and had a very happy ending. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sophy Hadlow does not want to return for another London Season. Her own debut into Society was marred by self-consciousness and her cringing embarrassment every time she was announced as 'The Lady Sophronia Hadlow'. Yet, much to her dismay, Sophy is back in London to oversee the debut of her younger sister Harriet and their wild cousin, Susan Tyneham, who risks ruining both her own and her innocent cousin's chances of marriage. Sophy, a most reluctant chaperone, is left to guide her sister and attempt to keep Susan from complete disaster, all whilst dealing with her own unexpected feelings for the disarming Lord Rothley.
A very well written, well paced book with wonderful characters, whether you loved them or disliked them. I loved both Sophy & Rothley & was routing for them to find happiness. I had difficulty liking Susan & Sophy’s mother who undermined Sophy's self esteem at every turn. A thoroughly enjoyable romance which left me smiling
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

A good story line but I found it quite difficult to get into. I think I found myself comparing to the Bridgerton series, which is my fault.

4.5 stars

Oh what a fun time this was! At 24 Sophy is considered, and considers herself, on the shelf. But with one daughter due to give birth and another in need of making her debut, her mother's time and attention is split. Sophy reluctantly agrees to return to London to chaperone her youngest sister, hoping her introduction to society goes better than Sophy's own. This was a wonderful whirlwind of balls, routs and scandals-in-the-making. Perfect for fans of Georgette Heyer.

I received this arc for free from netgalley in exchange for a review.

If you love Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton novels and are looking for something to fill the gap then try Sophie Holloway’s book, equally readable with relatable characters and historical accuracy