Author: Barbara

Avid reader/reviewer of historical romance and historical mysteries.

My Best Friend’s Earl by Bethany Bennett

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Part of a Series, Regency Era (1811-1820)Leave a comment

My Best Friend's Earl (Bluestocking Booksellers, #2)Barbara’s Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Series: Bluestocking Booksellers #2
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
Period: Regency
Length: 368 pages

Review:

Oliver and Connie are the classic case of opposites attract in this witty and entertaining Regency romance.

Oliver Vincent is everything calm, collected, and rule-following—a proper gentleman, if a bit rigid. Connie Martin, on the other hand, is spirited, impulsive, and delightfully chaotic. (Note: Connie clearly shows traits of ADHD, which adds nuance to her character.)

After breaking off her engagement, Connie is living under a cloud of social disgrace, working in her family’s bookshop, and carrying guilt more for her family’s suffering than her own actions. When her friend Amelia begs for help escaping her own unwanted engagement, Connie jumps at the distraction—even if it means meddling with the famously steadfast Oliver Vincent.

Oliver sees marriage as a transaction, and his betrothal to Amelia is nothing more than fulfilling an obligation. He’s far too honorable to back out on his own. What he doesn’t expect is the whirlwind that is Connie Martin—and the chaos she brings into his carefully ordered life.

Thoughts:
While I enjoyed the quirky charm and banter between Oliver and Connie, I didn’t fall completely in love with the story. The pacing dragged in spots, and the historical inaccuracies pulled me out of the setting—a personal pet peeve of mine with historical romance.

That said, the character dynamics were engaging, and the series concept (bookish heroines, anyone?) remains strong. I’m glad I read this one, even if I wouldn’t revisit it, and I’m definitely planning to pick up the next installment.

Disclaimer: I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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A Silence in Belgrave Square by Jennifer Ashley

On By BarbaraIn Barb's Reviews, Historical Mystery, Part of a Series, Victorian Era (1837-1901)2 Comments

A Silence in Belgrave Square (A Below Stairs Mystery, #8)

Barbara’s Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Series: A Below Stairs Mystery #8
Publication Date: August 12, 2025
Setting: Victorian London
Pages: 320

One of my favorite aspects of this series is its focus on characters from below stairs. While aristocrats appear, they remain secondary—allowing the real spotlight to shine on the clever, resilient, and resourceful Kat Holloway, a cook with a sharp mind and keen eye for detail. Alongside her is the ever-enigmatic Daniel McAdam—a charming and wily operative with a hidden connection to a secretive branch of Scotland Yard.

Daniel longs to escape the grip of his manipulative superior, Monaghan, who’s had it out for him for years. Monaghan finally offers Daniel a deal: complete this one last mission—his most dangerous yet—and he’ll be free. The case? Infiltrate the household of Viscount Peyton, suspected of conspiring with the Fenians, a radical group willing to commit mass murder in the name of Irish independence.

Meanwhile, Kat takes on a troubling mystery of her own. Several of Lady Cynthia’s friends have received vile blackmail letters, with promises of further instructions to come. When the second letter arrives, the demands take an unexpected turn—leading Kat down a much darker and more complex path.

Although working separately, both Kat and Daniel find themselves navigating escalating dangers. The risks they face also serve to deepen their personal bond, hinting at exciting developments to come in their relationship and lives.

The pacing is tight, the stakes are high, and the dual investigations are expertly interwoven. I especially appreciate how the author continues to build on the characters’ growth while laying intriguing groundwork for future installments.

Will Kat finally open her long-dreamed-of tea shop? Will Daniel uncover the truth about his past—and break free from Monaghan’s grasp? So many tantalizing threads left to explore!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

View all my reviews