This Regency rom-com features two friends, Sir Horley and Arabella, whose doomed relationship history leads them to consider marrying each other.

The premise is not a love story per se but one of a chosen family. The protagonists find Platonic love with each other and some spicy adventures with others along the way.

While this novel is a fun romp, readers must read the author’s other works in this series to understand the action entirely. Note: The cover and description would benefit from indicating that it is part of a series.

It is enjoyable, but at times, the pacing feels inconsistent. It also has an everything but the kitchen sink feel by the end. Hall did a good job showcasing platonic love.


Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC.

This was okay. I mean, there were moments of genuine fun and excitement, and others that unnecessarily prolonged and detracted from the overall pacing. A lot of dialogue in the story made it harder for me to stay engaged, unfortunately.

## Book Review: *Something Extraordinary (Something Fabulous)* by Alexis Hall

Alexis Hall's *Something Extraordinary (Something Fabulous)* is a delightful romp that blends humor, romance, and a touch of whimsy into a compelling narrative. Set in the Regency era, Hall’s novel stands out for its witty dialogue, charming characters, and a refreshing take on romantic tropes.

The story follows Valentine Layton, the Duke of Malvern, who is every bit the quintessential Regency aristocrat—handsome, wealthy, and accustomed to getting his way. His life takes an unexpected turn when he proposes to Arabella Tarleton, fulfilling a promise made to their families. However, Arabella has no intention of settling for an arranged marriage and promptly flees, leaving Valentine to chase after her.

Enter Bonaventure "Bonny" Tarleton, Arabella's twin brother, who is every bit as unconventional as his sister. Eager to help Valentine—or perhaps simply to cause some mischief—Bonny insists on joining the pursuit. The dynamic between Valentine and Bonny is electric from the start, and their interactions provide a wealth of comedic and romantic moments.

Hall’s characterization is one of the novel's strongest points. Valentine is a stoic duke, bound by duty and decorum, while Bonny is free-spirited, impulsive, and full of life. Their journey together is as much about finding Arabella as it is about self-discovery and challenging societal norms. Through their adventures, they encounter a cast of eccentric and memorable characters, each adding flavor and depth to the story.

The humor in *Something Extraordinary* is sharp and clever, often playing on the absurdities of Regency customs and the rigid expectations of society. Hall has a knack for comedic timing, and the banter between Valentine and Bonny is both endearing and hilarious. Despite the lighthearted tone, the novel also touches on deeper themes such as identity, freedom, and the courage to live authentically.

Romance fans will find much to love in the developing relationship between Valentine and Bonny. Hall masterfully balances their growing attraction with moments of genuine connection and vulnerability. The chemistry between the two leads is palpable, making their eventual romance all the more satisfying. It’s a slow burn that pays off beautifully, with a resolution that feels both earned and heartfelt.

One of the novel’s standout aspects is its subversion of traditional Regency romance tropes. Hall brings a modern sensibility to the genre, infusing the narrative with inclusivity and diversity that feels both natural and refreshing. The exploration of LGBTQ+ themes is handled with care and sensitivity, adding layers of authenticity to the characters and their experiences.

The pacing of the novel is brisk, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged from start to finish. The settings, from grand estates to quaint villages, are vividly described, immersing readers in the Regency era while maintaining a light and breezy tone.

In conclusion, *Something Extraordinary (Something Fabulous)* by Alexis Hall is a standout addition to the Regency romance genre. It combines wit, charm, and romance in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Hall’s ability to craft multi-dimensional characters and a compelling narrative makes this novel a must-read for fans of historical romance and anyone looking for a joyful, uplifting story.

For those seeking a book that offers both laughter and heartfelt moments, *Something Extraordinary* delivers in spades. It’s a celebration of love in all its forms, wrapped in a delightful package that will leave readers smiling long after the final page.

I actually didn't realize this was part of a series but they seem to be more like interconnected standalones so it was fine and I can't wait to read the previous books! This was so much fun and so sweet, I really loved the characters and the sort of silly but loveable tone

This book was delightful!

A lot of fun and shenanigans, plus a cute romance.

Would recommend!