What do you think?
Rate this book
The Spinsters of Inverley #2
The Accidental Bride
Miss Grace Linfield has resigned herself to life as a lady’s companion as the only path to respectable security. At least it allows her to visit the beautiful seaside town of Inverley with her charge, Lady Edith. Passions flare when botanist Miss Thea Martin whirls into town—and into Grace’s bed for a scandalous night of passion.
Disaster looms when Lady Edith elopes with Thea’s brother. Prim-and-proper Grace and wildly outrageous Thea each wish it was anyone else by their side as they race after them to Gretna Green. In the midst of attempting to stop a wedding that will incur the wrath of both their families, they discover their passion for each other is too strong to resist.
A chance at a real relationship was the last thing either of them expected. When Grace and Thea return from Scotland, will the honeymoon be over? Or will love finally be in full bloom?
Disaster looms when Lady Edith elopes with Thea’s brother. Prim-and-proper Grace and wildly outrageous Thea each wish it was anyone else by their side as they race after them to Gretna Green. In the midst of attempting to stop a wedding that will incur the wrath of both their families, they discover their passion for each other is too strong to resist.
A chance at a real relationship was the last thing either of them expected. When Grace and Thea return from Scotland, will the honeymoon be over? Or will love finally be in full bloom?
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 16, 2023
9 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Jane Walsh
8 books65 followersJane Walsh is a queer historical romance novelist published by Bold Strokes Books who loves everything Regency. She is delighted to have the opportunity to put her studies in history and costume design to good use by writing love stories. Jane’s happily ever after is centered on her wife and their cat and their cozy home together in Canada. You can find her at www.janewalshwrites.com and discover all her latest releases at www.boldstrokesbooks.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
August 14, 2024
Mediocre read!
Could not connect with the storyline or any characters...
Could not connect with the storyline or any characters...
April 22, 2023
I am not a regular reader of lesbian historical novels, but from time to time I do not mind choosing one like that and they usually surprise me in a positive way, as it has been in this case.
The plot of this story is convoluted but funny, it is easy to understand how at that time lesbians had to behave and act in order to lead more or less full and satisfying lives, in this case also, one of the protagonists has a passion for botany, adding to her sexuality the lack of support and credibility towards women scientists by the society of that time.
The other protagonist urgently needs the recognition of her social status, she is the illegitimate daughter of a lady but is suffering the tyranny of one of her aunts and that has her very worried about her future.
Neither of them seeks any kind of relationship but circumstances unite them and they finally realize that they are the solution to their problems. This seems simple, but until reaching this conclusion they have spent a really bumpy trip, with unexpected situations and another surprising.
It has been a very entertaining story.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
The plot of this story is convoluted but funny, it is easy to understand how at that time lesbians had to behave and act in order to lead more or less full and satisfying lives, in this case also, one of the protagonists has a passion for botany, adding to her sexuality the lack of support and credibility towards women scientists by the society of that time.
The other protagonist urgently needs the recognition of her social status, she is the illegitimate daughter of a lady but is suffering the tyranny of one of her aunts and that has her very worried about her future.
Neither of them seeks any kind of relationship but circumstances unite them and they finally realize that they are the solution to their problems. This seems simple, but until reaching this conclusion they have spent a really bumpy trip, with unexpected situations and another surprising.
It has been a very entertaining story.
Publisher Bold Strokes Books was kind enough to provide me with an advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
October 11, 2023
Grace and Thea. I’ve read other Jane Walsh books before and this is so far my favourite because the main characters were more life-conscious and they were willing to WORK ON THEMSELVES AND THEIR RELATIONSHIP. I love the part in the book where it said, yes, they are both women and it should be easier but they are two different people. Yes, please! Truer words have never been spoken!
May 2, 2023
Grace Linfield is a lady’s companion to Lady Edith who hopes on getting on offer of marriage from Mr. Martin. While guests at Martin family home Grace has an encounter with Thea Martin, the family’s spinster daughter. She usually lives in London and has a passion for botany. Her family calls Thea home to say they are going to cut her off if she doesn’t marry. When Edith takes off eloping with the younger brother there is race and chase to Gretna Green.
The first part of the the book is playful and kept me guessing on how Thea and Grace can be together. In a twist the second half has beginning life together. I won’t spoil the details of how cleverly it happens. But now they have to navigate being together in what ways they can. It is almost like an arranged Regency marriage where they lack communication skills and neither is confident of how to please the other out of the bedroom. There is a strong power imbalance that I didn’t like because Grace legally has no standing and is fearful because of it. But the reality is that is how marriages of the time could be. I found the second half of the book more interesting than entertaining.
Kudos for Walsh continuing to get the beautiful covers for her romances. This is the second in The Spinsters of Inverley but can be read as a standalone. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Book for the ARC and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
The first part of the the book is playful and kept me guessing on how Thea and Grace can be together. In a twist the second half has beginning life together. I won’t spoil the details of how cleverly it happens. But now they have to navigate being together in what ways they can. It is almost like an arranged Regency marriage where they lack communication skills and neither is confident of how to please the other out of the bedroom. There is a strong power imbalance that I didn’t like because Grace legally has no standing and is fearful because of it. But the reality is that is how marriages of the time could be. I found the second half of the book more interesting than entertaining.
Kudos for Walsh continuing to get the beautiful covers for her romances. This is the second in The Spinsters of Inverley but can be read as a standalone. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Book for the ARC and I’m leaving a voluntary review.
May 16, 2023
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
The Accidental Bride is the second book in Jane Walsh’s sapphic Spinsters of Inverley series. It can be read as a standalone, and while I didn’t find the prior book to be the strongest, I do generally like what Walsh brings to historical and sapphic romance.
The strength of the story is in its compelling main characters. Thea is a great spin on the common bluestocking trope, with a family who does not approve of her unmarried state. Meanwhile, Grace is illegitimate, and is resigned to life as a lady’s companion. I loved how the dynamics between the two evolved, playing into some common tropes, from the initial passionate entanglement between the two, to a gradual development into something more as the rest of the plot plays out.
Some aspects of the external plot initially seem a bit convoluted, but I like how the structure allows for a somewhat different take on a romance while providing the same feels. The first part is about them figuring out the semantics of their relationship, amid some of the other issues in their respective lives, and the second half sees them living out their happiness, in spite of the obstacles that come between them. Walsh is great at playing with reader expectations, and I was not disappointed in her twists on genre tropes and expectations to deliver a truly satisfying ending.
This is a generally fun, light read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys sapphic historical romance.
The Accidental Bride is the second book in Jane Walsh’s sapphic Spinsters of Inverley series. It can be read as a standalone, and while I didn’t find the prior book to be the strongest, I do generally like what Walsh brings to historical and sapphic romance.
The strength of the story is in its compelling main characters. Thea is a great spin on the common bluestocking trope, with a family who does not approve of her unmarried state. Meanwhile, Grace is illegitimate, and is resigned to life as a lady’s companion. I loved how the dynamics between the two evolved, playing into some common tropes, from the initial passionate entanglement between the two, to a gradual development into something more as the rest of the plot plays out.
Some aspects of the external plot initially seem a bit convoluted, but I like how the structure allows for a somewhat different take on a romance while providing the same feels. The first part is about them figuring out the semantics of their relationship, amid some of the other issues in their respective lives, and the second half sees them living out their happiness, in spite of the obstacles that come between them. Walsh is great at playing with reader expectations, and I was not disappointed in her twists on genre tropes and expectations to deliver a truly satisfying ending.
This is a generally fun, light read, and I’d recommend it to anyone who enjoys sapphic historical romance.
April 23, 2023
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Grace has a complicated past as she tries to find a husband for her charge Edie. Thea is a botanist who is summoned home with an ultimatum either settle down or she won’t inherit anything from her parents. They have a night of passion that they know won’t go anywhere. Their lives gets more complicated when they have to run after Edie and Thea brother Charles because they are eloping. Thea thinks this is opportunity to prove to her parents that she doesn’t need to be married to secure a place in society and Grace wants to stop this from happening because she doesn’t want the wrath of Lady Harriett. I like that we got see how Grace and Thea made their relationship work despite it’s being forbidden and relatively light angst which I love because too much angst would’ve been annoying overall cute romance with heartwarming moments.
Grace has a complicated past as she tries to find a husband for her charge Edie. Thea is a botanist who is summoned home with an ultimatum either settle down or she won’t inherit anything from her parents. They have a night of passion that they know won’t go anywhere. Their lives gets more complicated when they have to run after Edie and Thea brother Charles because they are eloping. Thea thinks this is opportunity to prove to her parents that she doesn’t need to be married to secure a place in society and Grace wants to stop this from happening because she doesn’t want the wrath of Lady Harriett. I like that we got see how Grace and Thea made their relationship work despite it’s being forbidden and relatively light angst which I love because too much angst would’ve been annoying overall cute romance with heartwarming moments.
April 30, 2023
Jane Walsh may now be tied for first place as my favorite queer romance author. The Accidental Bride is definitely tied as favorite sapphic novel. If you like Sapphic Regency romances, get this book and get comfy.
Miss Grace Linfield is present at the Martin Estate for her companion's courtship, when Miss Thea Martin turns her head .... and unlaces her stays. Grace's charge takes off to elope with Thea's brother, though, and both Grace and Thea race off to catch the couple and prevent the marriage, for their own hidden reasons. Catch up they do, but they also get caught in wedding ceremony. Marriage is harder than seduction, though. Can these two headstrong women make it work, particularly when Thea's botanical success doesn't lead to the fiscal success she hoped for?
The tension, first sexual, then emotional, between these two women is captivating. I picked the book up, set it down long enough to gather sustenance, and stayed up to finish it. There is much delightful barb and banter between the two women, as well as with their friends, that my mind felt entertained as well. I can't wait to read another book by this author, particularly in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the free pdf review copy. Opinions and feedback are my own, however.
Miss Grace Linfield is present at the Martin Estate for her companion's courtship, when Miss Thea Martin turns her head .... and unlaces her stays. Grace's charge takes off to elope with Thea's brother, though, and both Grace and Thea race off to catch the couple and prevent the marriage, for their own hidden reasons. Catch up they do, but they also get caught in wedding ceremony. Marriage is harder than seduction, though. Can these two headstrong women make it work, particularly when Thea's botanical success doesn't lead to the fiscal success she hoped for?
The tension, first sexual, then emotional, between these two women is captivating. I picked the book up, set it down long enough to gather sustenance, and stayed up to finish it. There is much delightful barb and banter between the two women, as well as with their friends, that my mind felt entertained as well. I can't wait to read another book by this author, particularly in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the free pdf review copy. Opinions and feedback are my own, however.
July 5, 2023
Fun adventure!
Racing after her charge Lady Edith, who has run off to elope with a young man who happens to be the brother of Thea, Grace finds herself embroiled in an adventure she’d never dreamed off. After one night of passion with Thea they are united in their efforts to get to Gretna Green and stop the wedding however they find they cannot resist one another or the chance of a relationship.
There was a fast pace to this that was slowed by the historical setting, which made it all the more exciting. Thea and Grace ended up journeying to Scotland unexpectedly and growing closer with every mile travelled and stop they had to make. It was a lot of fun wondering if they were going to arrive in time to stop the wedding, whether their plans would change, or even their minds about one another during more heated moments. I loved how Grace and Thea were vibrant, exciting characters with different views and eccentric personalities that just suited one another perfectly. The Accidental Bride is the second book in The Spinsters of Inverley series but what I love most is being able to read it standalone. If you have read the first book though, you definitely benefit from knowing some of the other characters.
I loved the contrast with botanist Thea getting carried away with her passions for all things plants and flowers. When she was interacting with Grace about her studies and experiments she was full of life, excitement and enthusiasm for what she could achieve. It wasn’t all plain sailing though because Grace was a more subtle person, she worried and spent time overthinking some things which lead to tense and dramatic moments between them. It was magical how having resigned herself to a life that meant she wasn’t exploring her own passions, it was great how Thea encouraged and brought this out of Grace to make her realise she had a chance for more.
Really enjoyed this story in the series and can’t wait to find out what the future has in store for Grace and Thea if they are in any future stories in the series.
Racing after her charge Lady Edith, who has run off to elope with a young man who happens to be the brother of Thea, Grace finds herself embroiled in an adventure she’d never dreamed off. After one night of passion with Thea they are united in their efforts to get to Gretna Green and stop the wedding however they find they cannot resist one another or the chance of a relationship.
There was a fast pace to this that was slowed by the historical setting, which made it all the more exciting. Thea and Grace ended up journeying to Scotland unexpectedly and growing closer with every mile travelled and stop they had to make. It was a lot of fun wondering if they were going to arrive in time to stop the wedding, whether their plans would change, or even their minds about one another during more heated moments. I loved how Grace and Thea were vibrant, exciting characters with different views and eccentric personalities that just suited one another perfectly. The Accidental Bride is the second book in The Spinsters of Inverley series but what I love most is being able to read it standalone. If you have read the first book though, you definitely benefit from knowing some of the other characters.
I loved the contrast with botanist Thea getting carried away with her passions for all things plants and flowers. When she was interacting with Grace about her studies and experiments she was full of life, excitement and enthusiasm for what she could achieve. It wasn’t all plain sailing though because Grace was a more subtle person, she worried and spent time overthinking some things which lead to tense and dramatic moments between them. It was magical how having resigned herself to a life that meant she wasn’t exploring her own passions, it was great how Thea encouraged and brought this out of Grace to make her realise she had a chance for more.
Really enjoyed this story in the series and can’t wait to find out what the future has in store for Grace and Thea if they are in any future stories in the series.
June 8, 2023
I really liked this for the most part. It's great to see the Regency tropes and trappings I so enjoy but in a queer romance. I really enjoyed the progression of Grace and Thea's relationship, especially the way a lot of it occurred after their marriage.
This book reminds me of the Wallflowers series, actually, but it's lacking the two things that I think make that series (the first half of it, anyway) excellent: the equal focus on the platonic relationships along the romance, and a dash of drama. There was a little too much communication in this one for my liking. Nothing wrong with two lovers who talk about their feelings, but sometimes it does sound like every one of these characters went to the same therapist.
Would definitely recommend, will definitely be checking out other works by this author.
This book reminds me of the Wallflowers series, actually, but it's lacking the two things that I think make that series (the first half of it, anyway) excellent: the equal focus on the platonic relationships along the romance, and a dash of drama. There was a little too much communication in this one for my liking. Nothing wrong with two lovers who talk about their feelings, but sometimes it does sound like every one of these characters went to the same therapist.
Would definitely recommend, will definitely be checking out other works by this author.
October 6, 2025
Very enjoyable. I liked that while there was insta-lust, it wasn't insta-love, and the characters had to grow to figure out how to be together.
August 6, 2023
What can I say about Jane Walsh that I haven't already said? Her books are perfect and everyone should read them. There is so much hope, joy, and love in this series, and this this book in particular, and I feel so lucky to get to read it!
Thanks to Bold Strokes and NetGalley for this ARC.
Thanks to Bold Strokes and NetGalley for this ARC.
July 5, 2023
Who knew a pack of 13 pins would become the lucky charm?
Grace and Thea become a fun and loving couple, even though both are very insecure, not only with each other, but more so with themselves. I thought this would be the typical "lack of communication" romance novel, but it goes deeper. There is so much past emotional abuse. It's no wonder they are insecure. Thea is summoned home because her father is threatening to stop giving her the allowance she relies on for everything, but has to sleep in a small guestroom instead of her own bedroom. Lady "Aunt" Harriet is threatening to ruin Grace's possibilty for future employment within the peerage by blackmailing her to be her cousin Edie's companion for the season, but not allowing Grace to allow Edie know they're cousins. This sounds confusing and possibly spoiling the novel, but the theme is laid out within the first few pages. There are a couple of times I wanted to yell at both Thea and Grace, but understood why each made their decisions. Ironically, the first time they're together happens to be in Thea's childhood bedroom that Grace was given for her to use. It's also where they have their first encounter, an unplanned mental and physical release from each of their circumstances.
There are quite a few amusing as well as teaching events all throughout the novel. While chasing an eloping couple (whom I adored) to Gretna, Grace and Thea begin their relationship, even though they both have their own reason to stop the elopement...which neither reveals to the other. This is one of many examples of their vulnerability, keeping their shields up for protection.
I did enjoy the various good/bad luck charms Grace acquires. They fit well, and weren't just thrown in for no reason. They helped further the plot. There were a few surprises I did not expect.
Grace was definitely a people pleaser, while Thea wore her fear of rejection like it was her entire wardrobe. Untangling their own issues was a full-time job in itself for the author. Yet, she was able to do so, and bring the couple the HEA.
There are a few liberties taken regarding historical accuracy, not too egregious.
I would read this novel again, and there aren't very many I actually come back to after the first time.
This is definitely a mature novel, as the two main characters are both women. There are many graphic, but tasteful FF scenes.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Grace and Thea become a fun and loving couple, even though both are very insecure, not only with each other, but more so with themselves. I thought this would be the typical "lack of communication" romance novel, but it goes deeper. There is so much past emotional abuse. It's no wonder they are insecure. Thea is summoned home because her father is threatening to stop giving her the allowance she relies on for everything, but has to sleep in a small guestroom instead of her own bedroom. Lady "Aunt" Harriet is threatening to ruin Grace's possibilty for future employment within the peerage by blackmailing her to be her cousin Edie's companion for the season, but not allowing Grace to allow Edie know they're cousins. This sounds confusing and possibly spoiling the novel, but the theme is laid out within the first few pages. There are a couple of times I wanted to yell at both Thea and Grace, but understood why each made their decisions. Ironically, the first time they're together happens to be in Thea's childhood bedroom that Grace was given for her to use. It's also where they have their first encounter, an unplanned mental and physical release from each of their circumstances.
There are quite a few amusing as well as teaching events all throughout the novel. While chasing an eloping couple (whom I adored) to Gretna, Grace and Thea begin their relationship, even though they both have their own reason to stop the elopement...which neither reveals to the other. This is one of many examples of their vulnerability, keeping their shields up for protection.
I did enjoy the various good/bad luck charms Grace acquires. They fit well, and weren't just thrown in for no reason. They helped further the plot. There were a few surprises I did not expect.
Grace was definitely a people pleaser, while Thea wore her fear of rejection like it was her entire wardrobe. Untangling their own issues was a full-time job in itself for the author. Yet, she was able to do so, and bring the couple the HEA.
There are a few liberties taken regarding historical accuracy, not too egregious.
I would read this novel again, and there aren't very many I actually come back to after the first time.
This is definitely a mature novel, as the two main characters are both women. There are many graphic, but tasteful FF scenes.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 28, 2024
Each time that I read books from this period, it angers me so much. The hiding of love behind being a companion as a spinster’s life was undesirable to many onlookers. It was so easy to be “disgraced” and “disowned” in the era more than many others. Women had no rights to property, wealth, profession, or anything of substance that wasn’t in keeping with marriage and raising a brood. How easily parents would disinherit their daughters for not being to sell them off to the highest bidder is disgusting.
My heart went out to both Thea and Grace. They were both very lovely people. When Thea first saw Grace, that was the beginning of their love affair. It was one of the few times when only one of the two were described as being classically beautiful. For all the beauty and charm that Thea possessed, no one saw her for her true beauty within and ever wanted to stay. Her parents cast her off at the tender age of 18. Very sad, really. Grace was a Lady’s companion and how she came to ever become a governess and a Lady’s companion was fought for very hard.
Thea and Grace had secrets and hurts of the past that would rear their ugly heads and would threaten their relationship. For all the scandals and the adventures that Thea was known for in her younger years, couldn’t dislodge the bone deep feeling that Grace was meant for her in a more permanent way. And Grace couldn’t believe that someone like Thea could ever want her in the long-term sort of way. They were what both needed in their lives. And through the story you could tell that Thea loved and desired Grace. She always thought the best of Grace even when they were having growing pains on just what their relationship meant and what they meant to one another.
Lastly, I was very disappointed in Thea’s parents in the end. But I was happy that Grace stood up for herself against her aunt, finally. It is a continual thread that “polite” society really isn’t polite at all.
My heart went out to both Thea and Grace. They were both very lovely people. When Thea first saw Grace, that was the beginning of their love affair. It was one of the few times when only one of the two were described as being classically beautiful. For all the beauty and charm that Thea possessed, no one saw her for her true beauty within and ever wanted to stay. Her parents cast her off at the tender age of 18. Very sad, really. Grace was a Lady’s companion and how she came to ever become a governess and a Lady’s companion was fought for very hard.
Thea and Grace had secrets and hurts of the past that would rear their ugly heads and would threaten their relationship. For all the scandals and the adventures that Thea was known for in her younger years, couldn’t dislodge the bone deep feeling that Grace was meant for her in a more permanent way. And Grace couldn’t believe that someone like Thea could ever want her in the long-term sort of way. They were what both needed in their lives. And through the story you could tell that Thea loved and desired Grace. She always thought the best of Grace even when they were having growing pains on just what their relationship meant and what they meant to one another.
Lastly, I was very disappointed in Thea’s parents in the end. But I was happy that Grace stood up for herself against her aunt, finally. It is a continual thread that “polite” society really isn’t polite at all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 3, 2023
The rebellious and impulsive Lady Theodora Martin has been shunned by her parents since her scandalous London debut. Some truly wild and experimental years have passed, but now she’s summoned home after 15 years to learn her independence is to be curtailed.
Prim and proper Grace Linfield worked her way up to lady’s companion. Having failed at properly chaperoning her aunt’s daughter, Lady Edith, in London she now has to secure the match with the eldest son of an earl, Thea’s big brother, or her aunt will expose Grace’s past.
Thea and Grace’s paths cross at a ball. Hiding in the dark turns into a night of passion.
When Edith elopes to Gretna Green with the other Martin brother, Thea vows to bring them home unwed and Grace has to rescue Edith if she wants to keep her secrets and secure her future. A mad dash up the great northern road denying their attraction, a double wedding in a smithy, a liberating trip south and the beginning of a new life in London. The search for balance navigating their relationship. The fight to make the impossible a possibility…
📚 The beautifully written tale of two young women discovering what they never thought possible. An unconventional marriage. The struggle to find their place in the world and in their household, somewhere between old and new family, and eventually their purpose and destiny. The tension, first sexual, then emotional, between these two women is captivating. If you enjoy sapphic historical romances, you'll surely enjoy this one!
📚 Sapphic romance, road trip, forced proximity, one bed, steamy, open door, class difference, opposites attract
Thank you to Jane Walsh, Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
Prim and proper Grace Linfield worked her way up to lady’s companion. Having failed at properly chaperoning her aunt’s daughter, Lady Edith, in London she now has to secure the match with the eldest son of an earl, Thea’s big brother, or her aunt will expose Grace’s past.
Thea and Grace’s paths cross at a ball. Hiding in the dark turns into a night of passion.
When Edith elopes to Gretna Green with the other Martin brother, Thea vows to bring them home unwed and Grace has to rescue Edith if she wants to keep her secrets and secure her future. A mad dash up the great northern road denying their attraction, a double wedding in a smithy, a liberating trip south and the beginning of a new life in London. The search for balance navigating their relationship. The fight to make the impossible a possibility…
📚 The beautifully written tale of two young women discovering what they never thought possible. An unconventional marriage. The struggle to find their place in the world and in their household, somewhere between old and new family, and eventually their purpose and destiny. The tension, first sexual, then emotional, between these two women is captivating. If you enjoy sapphic historical romances, you'll surely enjoy this one!
📚 Sapphic romance, road trip, forced proximity, one bed, steamy, open door, class difference, opposites attract
Thank you to Jane Walsh, Bold Strokes Books and NetGalley for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own.
June 5, 2023
It’s really hard to find great Regency Romances with lesbian main characters and themes. Thank goodness we have author Jane Walsh. Ms. Walsh’s newest novel The Accidental Bride is a wonderful addition to her growing list of WLW Historical Romances.
This is the second book in ‘The Spinsters of Inverley’ series, and is probably my favorite book so far. I fell in love with the two main characters, and became totally invested in their story.
Miss Grace Linfield is a lady’s companion for the young Lady Edith. Grace sees this job as her only way to respectability and security for herself. Lady Edith’s family wishes her to be wed to James Martin, so they visit the Martin family estate near the seaside town of Inverley. There Grace meets botanist Thea Martin, and they have one night of secret passion right before Lady Edith elopes with Charles Martin, Thea and James’s younger brother. Since both families would be angry with this marriage, Thea and Grace race to Gretna Green to try and stop the marriage before it can happen.
The Inverley setting is familiar since I read the first book in the series as well. I enjoyed Thea’s townhouse with her garden of plants and flowers. Grace and Thea’s romance gives the reader quite a roller coaster ride, and provides some apprehension about whether they will be able to become a true loving couple.
As a lover of historical and Regency romances, I’m so glad we have these novels to read and enjoy. While this is the second book in the series, it could be read as a standalone if you wish. However, I’ve read both books now and can recommend them to all historical and regency romance lovers.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
This is the second book in ‘The Spinsters of Inverley’ series, and is probably my favorite book so far. I fell in love with the two main characters, and became totally invested in their story.
Miss Grace Linfield is a lady’s companion for the young Lady Edith. Grace sees this job as her only way to respectability and security for herself. Lady Edith’s family wishes her to be wed to James Martin, so they visit the Martin family estate near the seaside town of Inverley. There Grace meets botanist Thea Martin, and they have one night of secret passion right before Lady Edith elopes with Charles Martin, Thea and James’s younger brother. Since both families would be angry with this marriage, Thea and Grace race to Gretna Green to try and stop the marriage before it can happen.
The Inverley setting is familiar since I read the first book in the series as well. I enjoyed Thea’s townhouse with her garden of plants and flowers. Grace and Thea’s romance gives the reader quite a roller coaster ride, and provides some apprehension about whether they will be able to become a true loving couple.
As a lover of historical and Regency romances, I’m so glad we have these novels to read and enjoy. While this is the second book in the series, it could be read as a standalone if you wish. However, I’ve read both books now and can recommend them to all historical and regency romance lovers.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for an honest review.
February 9, 2024
I almost appreciated that the story doesn't end when they get together/married, except that this happens withing 1 week of their meeting so, you know. I will say that I found the societal (non-)acceptance of their relationship better handled than in the first book.
But like the first book, I found the botanist MC to be too much "manly". For example, she literally keeps thinking "Mine." about her wife (is that romantic? Does this really appeal to anyone?), she really sees their mariage as her providing for and protecting her wife while her wife just needs to be there, be present and do nothing (although she doesn't do nothing, the MC just doesn't think about what she does after the original point of being relieved to not have to handle household affairs anymore). She "gives a household" to her wife to run and proceeds to shut herself up with her studies. She gets mean and condescending and distant when she feels negative things (what her wife calls "prickly" as if it's not a problem). The list could go on.
Her wife is a bit more realistic as a character so I didn't hate the whole thing, but I also got frustrated with how much her worldview aligns with her wife's (things like her viewing the MC as her savior multiple times or blaming herself for wanting to help and doing it slightly wrong). Anyways, the lack of communication was in and of itself not the worst except it, and the arguments their friends give them to reassure them, really don't work when the mariage is non-binding.
But like the first book, I found the botanist MC to be too much "manly". For example, she literally keeps thinking "Mine." about her wife (is that romantic? Does this really appeal to anyone?), she really sees their mariage as her providing for and protecting her wife while her wife just needs to be there, be present and do nothing (although she doesn't do nothing, the MC just doesn't think about what she does after the original point of being relieved to not have to handle household affairs anymore). She "gives a household" to her wife to run and proceeds to shut herself up with her studies. She gets mean and condescending and distant when she feels negative things (what her wife calls "prickly" as if it's not a problem). The list could go on.
Her wife is a bit more realistic as a character so I didn't hate the whole thing, but I also got frustrated with how much her worldview aligns with her wife's (things like her viewing the MC as her savior multiple times or blaming herself for wanting to help and doing it slightly wrong). Anyways, the lack of communication was in and of itself not the worst except it, and the arguments their friends give them to reassure them, really don't work when the mariage is non-binding.
April 13, 2023
This historical romance novel is light on history and heavy on romance and angst. If you’re a fan of historical romance novels with more romance than history, you’ll find this an enjoyable read. However, if you like historical romance novels with more than a passing glance at the history of the time in which a novel is placed, you probably should pass on this book.
While the two characters are almost well drawn, the author has chosen to portray one of the main
characters, Thea, as either insensitive to those around her or clueless. She’s portrayed as a rebel
but wears dresses, etc., even when she’s puttering amidst her plants, pots, and dirt. The other
main character, Grace, is a strait-laced lady’s companion who has a secret that must be kept at all
costs. The secondary characters are not well drawn and some disappear almost as fast as they
were introduced.
The author sets a leisurely pace as she heads toward the expected ending. She uses too much telling and not enough showing as the character find romance with each other, which as usual means there’s a lot of angst to have to read which only slows the pacing.
The ending is rushed with an unexpected twist because it involves a secondary character who was introduced earlier in the book but never heard from again until the epilogue set 10 years after the events occurred.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
While the two characters are almost well drawn, the author has chosen to portray one of the main
characters, Thea, as either insensitive to those around her or clueless. She’s portrayed as a rebel
but wears dresses, etc., even when she’s puttering amidst her plants, pots, and dirt. The other
main character, Grace, is a strait-laced lady’s companion who has a secret that must be kept at all
costs. The secondary characters are not well drawn and some disappear almost as fast as they
were introduced.
The author sets a leisurely pace as she heads toward the expected ending. She uses too much telling and not enough showing as the character find romance with each other, which as usual means there’s a lot of angst to have to read which only slows the pacing.
The ending is rushed with an unexpected twist because it involves a secondary character who was introduced earlier in the book but never heard from again until the epilogue set 10 years after the events occurred.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
April 17, 2023
INSTAGRAM | BLOG
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for approving this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I discovered that I really enjoy sapphic period romances, and this one didn't disappoint. Grace is a lady's companion with a complicated past, whose only way forward is to secure a husband for her charge, Edie. Thea is a former prodigal child turned botanist, summoned home for an ultimatum. They spend a night together, but they know they're too different to work out together, even without the forbidden nature of their relationship. When Edie and Thea's brother elope to Scotland, Grace and Thea must join forces to get to them before it's too late - and they return with more than they bargained for.
This is a well-written story with open-door spice, UST, domesticity, and a little angst, with an interesting twist that explains the title. The second part of the story is about learning to navigate a committed relationship, and the main conflict arises from miscommunication. This felt a little slow-paced and repetitive for me, and I could have used with a little more showing, but the protagonists' reasons were believable enough and I enjoyed the way they worked through it individually and together. The smut was really good.
If you enjoy sapphic historical romances, you'll surely enjoy this one!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for approving this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I discovered that I really enjoy sapphic period romances, and this one didn't disappoint. Grace is a lady's companion with a complicated past, whose only way forward is to secure a husband for her charge, Edie. Thea is a former prodigal child turned botanist, summoned home for an ultimatum. They spend a night together, but they know they're too different to work out together, even without the forbidden nature of their relationship. When Edie and Thea's brother elope to Scotland, Grace and Thea must join forces to get to them before it's too late - and they return with more than they bargained for.
This is a well-written story with open-door spice, UST, domesticity, and a little angst, with an interesting twist that explains the title. The second part of the story is about learning to navigate a committed relationship, and the main conflict arises from miscommunication. This felt a little slow-paced and repetitive for me, and I could have used with a little more showing, but the protagonists' reasons were believable enough and I enjoyed the way they worked through it individually and together. The smut was really good.
If you enjoy sapphic historical romances, you'll surely enjoy this one!
April 18, 2023
4/5 stars
I am now well and truly a Jane Walsh mega fan. I have read all of her books and enjoyed every single one. She is definitely the reigning queen of queer regency romances and I will continue to look forward to each book she writes. The Accidental Bride is a delightful story. It is packed full of flirtation, a pinch of adventure and two strong, loveable women.
I am a big fan of historical romance in all of its forms, so it really does feel like a warm coming home reading Walsh’s novels. With all of the courtship, talks of scandals and beautiful dresses, I really feel like I’m back in an Austen-era tale. The author is wonderful at setting the scene and I felt right into the period with her writing and descriptions, I really felt I was there with the characters. Sapphic historical romances like this really make me feel like I am reading the real story of two women from the Regency era, which really shows how believable and captivating the author makes her story,
I loved that the pace of this book is a bit different to a the usual arc of a romance. It started off fun and flirty but then we got to explore what it was like after the characters were together as well, how they made things work and had a go at domesticity. I really appreciated this part of the story as they navigating their blossoming relationship. It was a sweet story overall, with relatively light angst and lots of heartwarming moments. I definitely recommend for any lovers of historical romances.
I am now well and truly a Jane Walsh mega fan. I have read all of her books and enjoyed every single one. She is definitely the reigning queen of queer regency romances and I will continue to look forward to each book she writes. The Accidental Bride is a delightful story. It is packed full of flirtation, a pinch of adventure and two strong, loveable women.
I am a big fan of historical romance in all of its forms, so it really does feel like a warm coming home reading Walsh’s novels. With all of the courtship, talks of scandals and beautiful dresses, I really feel like I’m back in an Austen-era tale. The author is wonderful at setting the scene and I felt right into the period with her writing and descriptions, I really felt I was there with the characters. Sapphic historical romances like this really make me feel like I am reading the real story of two women from the Regency era, which really shows how believable and captivating the author makes her story,
I loved that the pace of this book is a bit different to a the usual arc of a romance. It started off fun and flirty but then we got to explore what it was like after the characters were together as well, how they made things work and had a go at domesticity. I really appreciated this part of the story as they navigating their blossoming relationship. It was a sweet story overall, with relatively light angst and lots of heartwarming moments. I definitely recommend for any lovers of historical romances.
June 29, 2023
Thank you so much to Netgalley for the review copy! All thoughts are my own.
This book made me fall in love with sapphic regency romances all over again. Words cannot describe how much I loved this book, but I’ll try. (warning, this review is literally just going to be me gushing about what I loved).
Firstly, Thea is so smooth and charismatic and charming???? I was literally blushing and kicking my feet every time she hit on Grace.
The ROMANCE. Y’all. The romance is heart stopping. Swoon worthy! The spice is top tier too 🤭
They accidentally get married about half way through the book and the rest of the book is them adjusting to married life and really becoming a couple, which sounds boring in theory but somehow wasn’t at all.
Which leads me to my next point, during that part of the book, a major part of it is about their communication with each other. I have never read a romance novel with such healthy communication! It was AMAZING the way they handled things. No third act break up, no horrible fights, just two people who love each other trying to figure things out.
I really appreciated the end of Thea’s story arc; her parents refuse to accept the fact she’s sapphic, and she accepts it and moves on, determined to live happily.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book, and I will definitely be reading the rest of Jane Walsh’s books. 5/5 stars
This book made me fall in love with sapphic regency romances all over again. Words cannot describe how much I loved this book, but I’ll try. (warning, this review is literally just going to be me gushing about what I loved).
Firstly, Thea is so smooth and charismatic and charming???? I was literally blushing and kicking my feet every time she hit on Grace.
The ROMANCE. Y’all. The romance is heart stopping. Swoon worthy! The spice is top tier too 🤭
They accidentally get married about half way through the book and the rest of the book is them adjusting to married life and really becoming a couple, which sounds boring in theory but somehow wasn’t at all.
Which leads me to my next point, during that part of the book, a major part of it is about their communication with each other. I have never read a romance novel with such healthy communication! It was AMAZING the way they handled things. No third act break up, no horrible fights, just two people who love each other trying to figure things out.
I really appreciated the end of Thea’s story arc; her parents refuse to accept the fact she’s sapphic, and she accepts it and moves on, determined to live happily.
Overall, I absolutely loved this book, and I will definitely be reading the rest of Jane Walsh’s books. 5/5 stars
Want to read
July 20, 2023A madcap race across Britain, two weddings, a secret pregnancy, and a lot of plants.
The next book in the Spinsters of Inverley series follows Miss Grace Martin, lady’s companion. Grace has one goal, get her charge Lady Edith engaged and down the aisle to the heir of the Martin family. With a proposal in sight she lets her eyes stray to the Martin’s wild, wayward daughter Thea, home from London to convince her parents not to cut her off. When Lady Edith elopes with the wrong brother, the women team up in an effort to stop the wedding and protect both their secrets.
This book is told in two parts, the first taking part on the journey to stop Lady Edith’s wedding and the second following our main couple as they progress their relationship. Forcing Thea and Grace to learn how to communicate and live as a unit, as a couple. Thea is beautifully smart, a botanist fighting to be seen as more than a woman, her words are as sharp as the thorns on her plants. Whereas Grace lives up to her name, you get the feeling she was born to be the lady of the house, although she has no want of a husband.
I enjoyed Thea and Grace’s story and hope we will see them in the next Invernley book.
The next book in the Spinsters of Inverley series follows Miss Grace Martin, lady’s companion. Grace has one goal, get her charge Lady Edith engaged and down the aisle to the heir of the Martin family. With a proposal in sight she lets her eyes stray to the Martin’s wild, wayward daughter Thea, home from London to convince her parents not to cut her off. When Lady Edith elopes with the wrong brother, the women team up in an effort to stop the wedding and protect both their secrets.
This book is told in two parts, the first taking part on the journey to stop Lady Edith’s wedding and the second following our main couple as they progress their relationship. Forcing Thea and Grace to learn how to communicate and live as a unit, as a couple. Thea is beautifully smart, a botanist fighting to be seen as more than a woman, her words are as sharp as the thorns on her plants. Whereas Grace lives up to her name, you get the feeling she was born to be the lady of the house, although she has no want of a husband.
I enjoyed Thea and Grace’s story and hope we will see them in the next Invernley book.
September 22, 2023
An advanced reading copy via Netgalley for my honest review
Although I don't often read lesbian historical fiction, I don't mind doing so occasionally. These books usually surprise me in a good way, as they did in this instance. One of the protagonists in this story has a passion for botany, which adds to her sexuality the lack of support and credibility given to women scientists by the society of the time. The plot of this story is convoluted but humorous, and it is simple to understand how lesbians at that time had to behave and act in order to lead more or less full and satisfying lives. This novel actually makes me think of the Wallflowers series, but it lacks the two elements that, in my opinion, make that series (or at least the first half of it) outstanding: an equal emphasis on platonic ties along with romantic relationships, and a splash of drama. For my tastes, there was a little bit too much dialogue in this one. There is nothing wrong with two loves discussing their emotions, but occasionally it seems like each of these people saw the same therapist.
Although I don't often read lesbian historical fiction, I don't mind doing so occasionally. These books usually surprise me in a good way, as they did in this instance. One of the protagonists in this story has a passion for botany, which adds to her sexuality the lack of support and credibility given to women scientists by the society of the time. The plot of this story is convoluted but humorous, and it is simple to understand how lesbians at that time had to behave and act in order to lead more or less full and satisfying lives. This novel actually makes me think of the Wallflowers series, but it lacks the two elements that, in my opinion, make that series (or at least the first half of it) outstanding: an equal emphasis on platonic ties along with romantic relationships, and a splash of drama. For my tastes, there was a little bit too much dialogue in this one. There is nothing wrong with two loves discussing their emotions, but occasionally it seems like each of these people saw the same therapist.
May 12, 2023
Behind the scenes of the romance between two young nobles running away to Scotland to elope, a queer romance unfolds between the sister Thea and lady companion Grace, an unlikely duo teamed up to stop an inconvenient marriage.
I liked the conceit of this book, which felt original. I liked Theas passion for botany, which added extra dimension to the story. The pairing were well balanced in terms of conflict of personality, which made it fun when circumstances forced them together.
The thing about Regency romance is that the protagonists are often gentry, which means that a good author has to address matters of class and power, like Austen first satirized. However, I found the power imbalance between the protagonists to make the romance uncomfortable at times, and I felt Thea lacked empathy for Graces social position, even when she was supposed to. Since the romance drove a lot of the plot, the book started to loose me about 2/3rds of the way in.
I liked the conceit of this book, which felt original. I liked Theas passion for botany, which added extra dimension to the story. The pairing were well balanced in terms of conflict of personality, which made it fun when circumstances forced them together.
The thing about Regency romance is that the protagonists are often gentry, which means that a good author has to address matters of class and power, like Austen first satirized. However, I found the power imbalance between the protagonists to make the romance uncomfortable at times, and I felt Thea lacked empathy for Graces social position, even when she was supposed to. Since the romance drove a lot of the plot, the book started to loose me about 2/3rds of the way in.
May 14, 2023
Really good historical romance book. The relationship between Thea and Grace was very sweet and complicated. They are from two different classes of society, but start to fall for each other anyway. Grace is a companion two Edith who's trying to find a husband and Thea is a botanist, just wanting to live her life on her own terms, but this is put into question when her parents order her home after years away to tell her she needs to marry or loose her allowance. This doesn't sit well with Thea so she decides to sulk and drink her rage away in the library, and this is where the two woman first meet. I really liked this story and the support characters were written well and helped to move this story along and not bog it down. There's some angst and drama, and a wild chase or two to Gretna Green which was very entertaining. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family and I look forward to what's next from this author.
May 27, 2023
3.5 rounded up
Wow, am I happy to see an f/f whether both MCs know they're queer and neither are virgins!
I really loved these characters individually. And I had a great time in the first half of the book: How they met, their first encounter, the Plot that throws them together, the thirst, and the reason they end up together by halfway through the book.
But once that happened, I got too stressed out by the relationship dynamics to continue. It was the absolutely *realistic* lack of communication -- not the cheap trick of misunderstandings and false accusations and refusal to listen.
I actually really love the idea of a couple getting together first and then having to figure out how to live together, to be a couple. This is so overlooked in romance! But this one was too stressful, and I wasn't enjoying myself. YMMV.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC, opinions are my own.
Wow, am I happy to see an f/f whether both MCs know they're queer and neither are virgins!
I really loved these characters individually. And I had a great time in the first half of the book: How they met, their first encounter, the Plot that throws them together, the thirst, and the reason they end up together by halfway through the book.
But once that happened, I got too stressed out by the relationship dynamics to continue. It was the absolutely *realistic* lack of communication -- not the cheap trick of misunderstandings and false accusations and refusal to listen.
I actually really love the idea of a couple getting together first and then having to figure out how to live together, to be a couple. This is so overlooked in romance! But this one was too stressful, and I wasn't enjoying myself. YMMV.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC, opinions are my own.
July 6, 2023
This has a clever idea, which I'll not reveal here, no spoilers. That was enjoyable. I did feel like this book was in two distinct parts, which required an adjustment. I almost wanted "Book 1" and "Book 2" sections. The first has higher tension and even an extended chase sequence. The second part is quieter, domestic differences and adjustment.
I never really felt close to the characters. They were a bit more "types" than individuals. In the same way that Grace and Thea are having trouble knowing each other, I was at arms-length from both of them
It was nice to have a science-oriented woman, though I much prefer Olivia Wilde's The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics.
I never really felt close to the characters. They were a bit more "types" than individuals. In the same way that Grace and Thea are having trouble knowing each other, I was at arms-length from both of them
It was nice to have a science-oriented woman, though I much prefer Olivia Wilde's The Lady's Guide to Celestial Mechanics.
August 22, 2023
4.5/5 stars.
This was my very first time reading something by this author and it was a great, I had a great time while reading this book.
What I loved the most is that plot wise, it was very unique and new to me. I don’t want to spoil too much so I’ll just say that the second part of the book was so interesting and entertaining. I could not stop reading it because I was so invested in Thea and Grace’s story.
I was a little nervous when I started this because I hadn’t read the first book of this series, but to my surprise, one can read this book as standalone without being confused.
I really did love this. The story was entertaining, the characters were endearing, and the writing was incredible. I would definitely recommend this!
Thank you Netgalley for my advanced copy. My opinions are my own.
This was my very first time reading something by this author and it was a great, I had a great time while reading this book.
What I loved the most is that plot wise, it was very unique and new to me. I don’t want to spoil too much so I’ll just say that the second part of the book was so interesting and entertaining. I could not stop reading it because I was so invested in Thea and Grace’s story.
I was a little nervous when I started this because I hadn’t read the first book of this series, but to my surprise, one can read this book as standalone without being confused.
I really did love this. The story was entertaining, the characters were endearing, and the writing was incredible. I would definitely recommend this!
Thank you Netgalley for my advanced copy. My opinions are my own.
September 9, 2023
🌟1.5 Stars🌟
The premise of this was so fun but the execution was bleh. Grace and Thea having to hunt down their family members before they eloped is such a great set up for a story. This really should have been a regency road trip book but instead this book revolved around an uneventful carriage ride and boring marriage drama. The most exciting thing that happens on the journey to find the siblings is that Grace sprains her ankle. I found the marriage conflict confusing as it seemed to occur because these characters weren’t communicating their basic thoughts and feelings. This trope in regency romance is 1000x more effective when the marriage is between a man and a woman and is legally binding. These women have actively chosen to go against society and be together so it seems strange to me that they wouldn’t want to share their desires and thoughts. Sapphics are just built different and in my experience wouldn’t be having such a benign conflict.
The premise of this was so fun but the execution was bleh. Grace and Thea having to hunt down their family members before they eloped is such a great set up for a story. This really should have been a regency road trip book but instead this book revolved around an uneventful carriage ride and boring marriage drama. The most exciting thing that happens on the journey to find the siblings is that Grace sprains her ankle. I found the marriage conflict confusing as it seemed to occur because these characters weren’t communicating their basic thoughts and feelings. This trope in regency romance is 1000x more effective when the marriage is between a man and a woman and is legally binding. These women have actively chosen to go against society and be together so it seems strange to me that they wouldn’t want to share their desires and thoughts. Sapphics are just built different and in my experience wouldn’t be having such a benign conflict.
April 30, 2023
Grace has accepted her lot as a lady's companion—until she shares a scandalous night with botanist Thea. They confront their growing feelings for each other as they chase after an eloping couple. When the journey ends, can their love continue to bloom?
Jane Walsh has a knack for depicting how love turns ordinary lives into something extraordinary. Grace and Thea aren't seeking more than they have. But when they meet, something combusts between them. Circumstances force them to take action to preserve their financial security—but their growing passion and affection turns their world from black-and-white to color. It's an entertaining and heartfelt story.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Jane Walsh has a knack for depicting how love turns ordinary lives into something extraordinary. Grace and Thea aren't seeking more than they have. But when they meet, something combusts between them. Circumstances force them to take action to preserve their financial security—but their growing passion and affection turns their world from black-and-white to color. It's an entertaining and heartfelt story.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
March 26, 2024
A nice example of historical sapphic fiction that takes place in jolly old England and involves hijinks within the Ton. Grace is escorting her “cousin” for the summer to help find a suitable husband. Thea is the disgraced sister of the targeted suitor of choice within an aristocratic English country family. You know that Grace and Thea are destined to meet and begin a potentially scandalous relationship. The story has angst, soft romantic moments, a bit of travel, lots of botany and sympathetic second characters as well as a good dose of loving between women. Lovely writing, plausible storylines and a neatly wrapped up conclusion. Will read more by this author.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews