What do you think?
Rate this book
A Marriage Is Arranged
Can An Arranged Marriage Be Arranged ?
When the two plainest people in London enter into an arranged marriage the ton isn't so much surprised as counting the days to an arranged separation.
Louise is too short, too dull and too dowdy and the Earl is frightening, with his frowning demeanor and massive shoulders. He's willing to marry her because he doesn't expect a dowdy wife to impact his lifestyle and other relationships. She's willing to marry him because ugly and unmannerly as he is, she is for some unaccountable reason drawn to the man.
Louise vows to arrange the marriage to her own satisfaction, but when he appears to have another love interest, her anger and sorrow lead her to make a big mistake, which he responds to just as foolishly.
Ah me! The course of true love ne'er did run smooth
When the two plainest people in London enter into an arranged marriage the ton isn't so much surprised as counting the days to an arranged separation.
Louise is too short, too dull and too dowdy and the Earl is frightening, with his frowning demeanor and massive shoulders. He's willing to marry her because he doesn't expect a dowdy wife to impact his lifestyle and other relationships. She's willing to marry him because ugly and unmannerly as he is, she is for some unaccountable reason drawn to the man.
Louise vows to arrange the marriage to her own satisfaction, but when he appears to have another love interest, her anger and sorrow lead her to make a big mistake, which he responds to just as foolishly.
Ah me! The course of true love ne'er did run smooth
288 pages, Paperback
Published June 22, 2023
302 people are currently reading
199 people want to read
About the author
G.L. Robinson
30 books126 followersMy Regency novel The Earl and the Mud Covered Maiden is now free on multiple platforms:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08... (Amazon)
https://books2read.com/u/49vd2w (multiple platforms: Apple, Barnes & Noble, etc)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
GL Robinson is the godchild of Georgette Heyer. She writes Regency Romances in a very proper English style with a good dash of humor. As the product of a convent boarding school in the south of England in the 1950's and early 60's, she has a very proper English style herself, which you will be able to tell if you listen to the recordings of the first chapters of her novels on her website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com, where you can also sign up for a free short story.
She met her American husband in Brussels where she was working at the time the UK joined the European Union (or Common Market, as it was then called). After retiring from a career as a French professor in upstate New York, she happily swapped Existentialism for Romance and since 2018 has written 11 Regency novels. They all feature feisty heroines against a real historical background. She has also begun a contemporary crime trilogy featuring hunky ex-special forces Miles O'Malley. She's in love with him, but don't tell her husband!
Her Regency novels can all be found on:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WF2GV7S
and all her books on her Amazon page:
https://www.amazon.com/GL-Robinson/e/B08...
FOR A FREE SHORT STORY, or to listen to the first chapters of her novels, go to the website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com
Facebook: GL Robinson Author
Twitter: @gl_robinson
Instagram:@glrobinsonauthor
Tiktok @glrobinson1
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08... (Amazon)
https://books2read.com/u/49vd2w (multiple platforms: Apple, Barnes & Noble, etc)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
GL Robinson is the godchild of Georgette Heyer. She writes Regency Romances in a very proper English style with a good dash of humor. As the product of a convent boarding school in the south of England in the 1950's and early 60's, she has a very proper English style herself, which you will be able to tell if you listen to the recordings of the first chapters of her novels on her website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com, where you can also sign up for a free short story.
She met her American husband in Brussels where she was working at the time the UK joined the European Union (or Common Market, as it was then called). After retiring from a career as a French professor in upstate New York, she happily swapped Existentialism for Romance and since 2018 has written 11 Regency novels. They all feature feisty heroines against a real historical background. She has also begun a contemporary crime trilogy featuring hunky ex-special forces Miles O'Malley. She's in love with him, but don't tell her husband!
Her Regency novels can all be found on:
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09WF2GV7S
and all her books on her Amazon page:
https://www.amazon.com/GL-Robinson/e/B08...
FOR A FREE SHORT STORY, or to listen to the first chapters of her novels, go to the website: https://romancenovelsbyglrobinson.com
Facebook: GL Robinson Author
Twitter: @gl_robinson
Instagram:@glrobinsonauthor
Tiktok @glrobinson1
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews
September 2, 2023
A tad bit boring
And by tad, I mean totally boring. They were both unattractive supposedly and that didn't really bother me but it was kind of depressing with all the talk of it. He kept his mistress after the marriage but only slept with her up to his wedding. Wasn't that so sweet of him? Yuk! Just not for me. It was an arranged marriage but for goodness sake can't heroes be faithful anymore. She drew caricatures of people and her maid gave them to a newspaper, everyone found out, blah, blah, blah, and it was a very dreary story. And depressing. Even after they break up the mundane 'routine' for making heirs, it was still just so... routine. I am in the minority here and stories like this are just not my jam. Personal preference for sure. And I loved Georgette Heyer when I was a teen, but I don't really see the comparison. Maybe I will read one again to see. It has been many many years. Maybe I will find it boring too.
And by tad, I mean totally boring. They were both unattractive supposedly and that didn't really bother me but it was kind of depressing with all the talk of it. He kept his mistress after the marriage but only slept with her up to his wedding. Wasn't that so sweet of him? Yuk! Just not for me. It was an arranged marriage but for goodness sake can't heroes be faithful anymore. She drew caricatures of people and her maid gave them to a newspaper, everyone found out, blah, blah, blah, and it was a very dreary story. And depressing. Even after they break up the mundane 'routine' for making heirs, it was still just so... routine. I am in the minority here and stories like this are just not my jam. Personal preference for sure. And I loved Georgette Heyer when I was a teen, but I don't really see the comparison. Maybe I will read one again to see. It has been many many years. Maybe I will find it boring too.
November 28, 2023
Fair or not, I judge all Regency romances against those of Georgette Heyer. In fact, until recently I refused to read any Regencies by another author, instead rereading my two favorite books by Heyer. I am slowly buying the Georgette Heyer novels that are available on Kindle, but it will take time to build up my library.
I chose this book because it is free with Kindle Unlimited. Hopefully I will find other recently penned Regencies that I find more to my taste in between rereading Heyer books as I can afford them.
This novel was marred for me by the description of the love interest, the Earl of Shrewsbury. He is fond of boxing and has the muscular physique of a bodybuilder. I have never been attracted to that type of man. Give me the sleek muscles of a male gymnast any day, or simply a man who is fit and strong but not so bulging with muscles that he has to have his clothes specially fitted to accommodate his large shoulders and arms.
The story emphasizes character over looks, which is definitely worthwhile, but the constant mention of the lady's plainness and the gentleman's ape-like looks gets tiresome after a while. There are the usual romance tropes, misunderstandings and secrets which come out at the worst possible moment, a staple not only in Regency romances but those of any era. The use of caricatures is novel, although their purpose in causing problems between the two main characters is standard fare.
This is a pleasant enough read, which is why I gave it three stars. If you like Regencies, and you like your heroes bulked up, you might like this book.
I chose this book because it is free with Kindle Unlimited. Hopefully I will find other recently penned Regencies that I find more to my taste in between rereading Heyer books as I can afford them.
This novel was marred for me by the description of the love interest, the Earl of Shrewsbury. He is fond of boxing and has the muscular physique of a bodybuilder. I have never been attracted to that type of man. Give me the sleek muscles of a male gymnast any day, or simply a man who is fit and strong but not so bulging with muscles that he has to have his clothes specially fitted to accommodate his large shoulders and arms.
The story emphasizes character over looks, which is definitely worthwhile, but the constant mention of the lady's plainness and the gentleman's ape-like looks gets tiresome after a while. There are the usual romance tropes, misunderstandings and secrets which come out at the worst possible moment, a staple not only in Regency romances but those of any era. The use of caricatures is novel, although their purpose in causing problems between the two main characters is standard fare.
This is a pleasant enough read, which is why I gave it three stars. If you like Regencies, and you like your heroes bulked up, you might like this book.
August 26, 2024
I liked this but wished for a bit more grovel from the H, as usual. I rounded up to 4 stars but really it's more of a 3 star read. But I liked the growth of the characters.
The audiobook is read by the author, who is OK at best. The audio quality isn't great either.
The earl wants a wife but isn't really interested in being married or falling in love. He's a practical guy who is interested in politics and boxing and not much else. Since they were betrothed as little kids by their fathers who were best friends, they both seem to be fine with just going ahead with it.
Louise seems to always be underestimated by everyone, including her mother. And The Earl, Gareth doesn't think much of her at first either. But then, Louise doesn't see much in him either. He's kinda ugly, but she's attracted to him. Maybe it's his big muscles from his favourite passtime of boxing? She is no beauty but she's not ugly. She just wears the usual dowdy ill fitted gowns and ugly hairdo that underestimated h's do in these books.
He has no attraction at first, and plans to continue with his mistress.
They even have a schedule for sex drawn up in the marriage contract!
But of course the best laid plans....
His mistress Diane is pissed he married someone else. But even she isn't just a cardboard cutout villain.
So basically they marry as strangers with no real connection, but that changes until the OW sticks her oar into it and he is stupid enough to let her because he is still thinking in too self centered a way.
There's a long epilogue and his apology though rather short, was sincere.
Safety is good enough.
The audiobook is read by the author, who is OK at best. The audio quality isn't great either.
The earl wants a wife but isn't really interested in being married or falling in love. He's a practical guy who is interested in politics and boxing and not much else. Since they were betrothed as little kids by their fathers who were best friends, they both seem to be fine with just going ahead with it.
Louise seems to always be underestimated by everyone, including her mother. And The Earl, Gareth doesn't think much of her at first either. But then, Louise doesn't see much in him either. He's kinda ugly, but she's attracted to him. Maybe it's his big muscles from his favourite passtime of boxing? She is no beauty but she's not ugly. She just wears the usual dowdy ill fitted gowns and ugly hairdo that underestimated h's do in these books.
He has no attraction at first, and plans to continue with his mistress.
They even have a schedule for sex drawn up in the marriage contract!
But of course the best laid plans....
His mistress Diane is pissed he married someone else. But even she isn't just a cardboard cutout villain.
So basically they marry as strangers with no real connection, but that changes until the OW sticks her oar into it and he is stupid enough to let her because he is still thinking in too self centered a way.
There's a long epilogue and his apology though rather short, was sincere.
Safety is good enough.
November 25, 2023
I really wanted to like this book, the premise was promising and there aren't a lot of historical romances where the leads are ordinary and ugly, since usually everyone's gorgeous or jewels who don't know they're jewels (which gets boring). I did really like the FL at first but the author's constant preaching of feminism quickly got annoying and pulled me out of the book. Literally, that was all that was spoken about for majority of the book.
And oh my god, the ML was the WORST. I say that about most bad books but it's always down to the ML's that make a potentially great romance into the worst ones to have ever graced the reading world. He was an arsehole to the FL and I was rooting *against* him the entire time because he didn't deserve her. Everyone clearly knew of her worth except him, and even at the end, I still felt like he didn't learn anything or grow in terms of romantic development or even his own character development. I'm only giving it two stars and not the one it deserves because I did actually enjoy the grovel that happened (cos I liked seeing the ML suffer), but I felt like she forgave him too quickly right after.
The main issue I have is their love. I do believe she loves him, but I don't, not even for a second no matter what he says at the end of the book, believe that he loves her. He literally even admits to his mistress during that scene when the FL finds them in the garden that he's breaking things off because SHE made the choice to not continue, not that he wanted to break things off to honour his wife or because he didn't want her anymore. That made me so sick. Oh, and he knew the mistress was seeing someone else because he had gone over to her house (THE DAY OF THE WEDDING BTW) and saw the other guy come out of her house. Him visiting her house for one shows that he WAS going to continue their affair (he mentioned this would happen even before he got married). But okay, let's just say, hypothetically, that the other dude wasn't even in the mix (he only existed to drive that wedge in the book cos even the author knows that the ML wouldn't have a reason to stop the affair otherwise because HE. DOES. NOT. LOVE. THE. FL.), the ML would have happily continued the affair, no questions asked. He didn't break things with the mistress by choice. Had he had his way, things would have turned out differently so it was like he was kind of forced to accept the cards he was dealt with, that being the poor FL left to waste away her life with her husband who clearly only wants sex from her and doesn't actually like her as a person. He has an ugly personality that matches his apparently ugly looks.
So no, I didn't buy the romance at all and this being a ROMANCE, I feel like it just defeated the whole purpose of me reading the damned book.
I'm so upset I hated this. If only the ML was more tolerable and had redeeming qualities then this honestly would have been a completely different review. But oh well.
And oh my god, the ML was the WORST. I say that about most bad books but it's always down to the ML's that make a potentially great romance into the worst ones to have ever graced the reading world. He was an arsehole to the FL and I was rooting *against* him the entire time because he didn't deserve her. Everyone clearly knew of her worth except him, and even at the end, I still felt like he didn't learn anything or grow in terms of romantic development or even his own character development. I'm only giving it two stars and not the one it deserves because I did actually enjoy the grovel that happened (cos I liked seeing the ML suffer), but I felt like she forgave him too quickly right after.
The main issue I have is their love. I do believe she loves him, but I don't, not even for a second no matter what he says at the end of the book, believe that he loves her. He literally even admits to his mistress during that scene when the FL finds them in the garden that he's breaking things off because SHE made the choice to not continue, not that he wanted to break things off to honour his wife or because he didn't want her anymore. That made me so sick. Oh, and he knew the mistress was seeing someone else because he had gone over to her house (THE DAY OF THE WEDDING BTW) and saw the other guy come out of her house. Him visiting her house for one shows that he WAS going to continue their affair (he mentioned this would happen even before he got married). But okay, let's just say, hypothetically, that the other dude wasn't even in the mix (he only existed to drive that wedge in the book cos even the author knows that the ML wouldn't have a reason to stop the affair otherwise because HE. DOES. NOT. LOVE. THE. FL.), the ML would have happily continued the affair, no questions asked. He didn't break things with the mistress by choice. Had he had his way, things would have turned out differently so it was like he was kind of forced to accept the cards he was dealt with, that being the poor FL left to waste away her life with her husband who clearly only wants sex from her and doesn't actually like her as a person. He has an ugly personality that matches his apparently ugly looks.
So no, I didn't buy the romance at all and this being a ROMANCE, I feel like it just defeated the whole purpose of me reading the damned book.
I'm so upset I hated this. If only the ML was more tolerable and had redeeming qualities then this honestly would have been a completely different review. But oh well.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2024
Really a surprise
Delicious
Gareth is a little dumb but so cute
Louise is funny and catchy
Loved it
Delicious
Gareth is a little dumb but so cute
Louise is funny and catchy
Loved it
September 13, 2025
4.25 "Love" stars!!!!!
Oh what a story!!!! Loved Gareth and Louise so much!!!! They are hilarious and so unique on their own!!! This book has one of the best epilogues I've ever read!!!! The story is sweet and the epilogue is perfect!!!
Oh what a story!!!! Loved Gareth and Louise so much!!!! They are hilarious and so unique on their own!!! This book has one of the best epilogues I've ever read!!!! The story is sweet and the epilogue is perfect!!!
November 9, 2023
Enjoyed this couple's story. Both are naïve and view the world through their limited experience. He accepted he had to marry, she wanted to be a good wife so after he bedded her, he left her alone. Shad no expectations so she and her country maid enjoyed the sights in London for weeks. No chaperone, no fuss. Loved this heroine and the rather stupid and selfish H. Great plot and characters.
February 11, 2024
4 stars
A great balance between gentility and hell hath no fury. Sweet, enjoyable read
A great balance between gentility and hell hath no fury. Sweet, enjoyable read
February 14, 2024
A remarkable story
Forceful, often frowning, wealthy, the lord was not handsome but respected. He thought he was marrying a docile, plain woman who would not make much of a change in his lifestyle of boxing, politics, and mistress visitation. He was wrong. What developed between them was unexpected and made substantial change for the better for both.
Forceful, often frowning, wealthy, the lord was not handsome but respected. He thought he was marrying a docile, plain woman who would not make much of a change in his lifestyle of boxing, politics, and mistress visitation. He was wrong. What developed between them was unexpected and made substantial change for the better for both.
October 1, 2023
The guy is such a whiny piece of shit. He absolutely would have kept up with his mistress if she hadn’t moved on with someone else. I hate that I wasted time on this. It wasn’t worth it.
September 26, 2025
📚✨ BOOK REVIEW ✨📚
Title: A Marriage Is Arranged: A Regency Romance 💍
Author: G.L. Robinson
Genre: Regency Romance
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
📝 My Thoughts: Modestly Managed Match
This story leans heavily on the classic arranged marriage trope, staying close to Regency conventions. Louise Grey and Gareth Wandsworth, Earl of Shrewsbury, are bound by a long-standing promise between their fathers. Neither is eager: Louise, plain and dutiful, doubts anyone could want her, while Gareth, scarred by reputation and propriety, treats marriage more like business than romance.
What worked: Louise is far more interesting than she first appears. Beneath her quiet demeanor is a sharp, observant woman with dry wit and even a hint of rebellion, her amusing caricatures of others added personality. Gareth, though gruff and sometimes off-putting, slowly reveals why he behaves as he does. Watching their formal, cautious relationship gradually warm into mutual respect and affection forms the book’s heart. I also appreciated occasional dialogue on women’s education and independence, giving Louise depth beyond the typical Regency heroine.
Where it stumbled: Some conversations dragged, while major emotional moments were rushed. Gareth’s temper and pride made him occasionally hard to root for, and conflicts resolved a little too neatly. The romance is sweet but restrained, enjoyable in the moment but lacking the spark of stronger Regencies.
Triggers / Content Notes: Clean. Themes include duty, arranged marriage, and period-appropriate discussions of “conjugal rights.” No graphic content.
Who I’d Recommend This To: Readers who enjoy arranged marriage/marriage-of-convenience plots without scandal or high drama
🔖 Favorite Quote:
“She had not agreed to marry the Earl because she wanted a great position, but because she wanted the man.”
📌 Final Verdict:
A modest but pleasant Regency romance. Not a standout in the genre, but it delivers a careful, sweet evolution from convenience to affection. For me, a 3-star read enjoyable for the moment, though not one I’ll rush to revisit.
#RNreads #AMarriageIsArranged #GLRobinson #RegencyRomance #MarriageOfConvenience #BookReview #HistoricalFiction #3StarRead #Bookstagram #RNreads
Title: A Marriage Is Arranged: A Regency Romance 💍
Author: G.L. Robinson
Genre: Regency Romance
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ (3/5)
📝 My Thoughts: Modestly Managed Match
This story leans heavily on the classic arranged marriage trope, staying close to Regency conventions. Louise Grey and Gareth Wandsworth, Earl of Shrewsbury, are bound by a long-standing promise between their fathers. Neither is eager: Louise, plain and dutiful, doubts anyone could want her, while Gareth, scarred by reputation and propriety, treats marriage more like business than romance.
What worked: Louise is far more interesting than she first appears. Beneath her quiet demeanor is a sharp, observant woman with dry wit and even a hint of rebellion, her amusing caricatures of others added personality. Gareth, though gruff and sometimes off-putting, slowly reveals why he behaves as he does. Watching their formal, cautious relationship gradually warm into mutual respect and affection forms the book’s heart. I also appreciated occasional dialogue on women’s education and independence, giving Louise depth beyond the typical Regency heroine.
Where it stumbled: Some conversations dragged, while major emotional moments were rushed. Gareth’s temper and pride made him occasionally hard to root for, and conflicts resolved a little too neatly. The romance is sweet but restrained, enjoyable in the moment but lacking the spark of stronger Regencies.
Triggers / Content Notes: Clean. Themes include duty, arranged marriage, and period-appropriate discussions of “conjugal rights.” No graphic content.
Who I’d Recommend This To: Readers who enjoy arranged marriage/marriage-of-convenience plots without scandal or high drama
🔖 Favorite Quote:
“She had not agreed to marry the Earl because she wanted a great position, but because she wanted the man.”
📌 Final Verdict:
A modest but pleasant Regency romance. Not a standout in the genre, but it delivers a careful, sweet evolution from convenience to affection. For me, a 3-star read enjoyable for the moment, though not one I’ll rush to revisit.
#RNreads #AMarriageIsArranged #GLRobinson #RegencyRomance #MarriageOfConvenience #BookReview #HistoricalFiction #3StarRead #Bookstagram #RNreads
December 8, 2023
4⭐️Such a wonderful and entertaining read! Set in regency era, this fast paced marriage of convenience romance was full of witty banter, well developed characters and clever dialogue. There was no complicated plot in this one and it was quite predictable, but I adored the simplicity of it.
It is a clean romance, but I didn’t mind it at all, because the author included some “elegant“ sexual innuendos, if I can call them that, that made up for all the lack of spice.
The author’s writing style was extremely immersive and very reminiscent of Georgette Hayer and Jane Austen.
But what I liked most about it, is that it got me out of my reading slump. Finally! 🙌🏻😏
The only reason why I didn’t give it 5 stars is because the different points of views started all of the sudden, without any warning. I don’t even know how to explain it. Usually when I read books with multiple pov’s, the new point of view starts in the next chapter, well in this one, it always started right after a scene with other characters. I found it a bit confusing, but other than that, I loved the writing.
Ps: English is not my first language, so I apologize for any grammatical errors
It is a clean romance, but I didn’t mind it at all, because the author included some “elegant“ sexual innuendos, if I can call them that, that made up for all the lack of spice.
The author’s writing style was extremely immersive and very reminiscent of Georgette Hayer and Jane Austen.
But what I liked most about it, is that it got me out of my reading slump. Finally! 🙌🏻😏
The only reason why I didn’t give it 5 stars is because the different points of views started all of the sudden, without any warning. I don’t even know how to explain it. Usually when I read books with multiple pov’s, the new point of view starts in the next chapter, well in this one, it always started right after a scene with other characters. I found it a bit confusing, but other than that, I loved the writing.
Ps: English is not my first language, so I apologize for any grammatical errors
July 18, 2024
4 1/2 stars. Some authors can take an idea that doesn't work in another book and make it more plausible in their own book. The H's gran proposes that he marry the daughter of his father's best friend. The H is considered too big and muscular, a boxer not a fencer or a good shot. The h gives the appearance of being unremarkable in her mother's ill fitting, wrong coloured clothing and an unflattering hair style. The H and h agree to the marriage. The H believes he can continue the routines of his life since his new wife will be so undemanding and accommodating. This means he can continue with his mistress and he even has a contract drawn up the limits intercourse to once every two weeks. Of course his life does change. The h misinterprets a garden meeting of the H and the mistress in which he is ending the relationship. Luckily the H's grandmother is good at reading and fixing misunderstandings. An H trying to maintain a relationship with his mistress after marrying was too much to accept in another book that I read but he was not unfaithful to his wife and he chose to love his wife over being with his mistress. That made a difference for me.
July 16, 2023
An Enjoyable Read
I'm a big fan of character-driven romances. Even if the story is a bit predictable, as long as the characters are real and believable, I'm all in. Such is the case with A Marriage is Arranged by GL Robinson.
I don't believe I've ever read a romance where both the hero (Gareth) and heroine (Louise) not only consider themselves unattractive, but are considered unattractive by society as a whole. In an odd way that is exactly what makes this cleverly written book so appealing. The author has truly focused on the innate goodness of their personalities rather than on their beautiful appearance.
Though this book is a bit lengthy, this sweet story has just enough humor and angst to make the reader appreciate the ups and downs of this arranged marriage, as well as this couple's very HEA.
Content 411: This book is a clean read. There is no offensive language or sex.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
I'm a big fan of character-driven romances. Even if the story is a bit predictable, as long as the characters are real and believable, I'm all in. Such is the case with A Marriage is Arranged by GL Robinson.
I don't believe I've ever read a romance where both the hero (Gareth) and heroine (Louise) not only consider themselves unattractive, but are considered unattractive by society as a whole. In an odd way that is exactly what makes this cleverly written book so appealing. The author has truly focused on the innate goodness of their personalities rather than on their beautiful appearance.
Though this book is a bit lengthy, this sweet story has just enough humor and angst to make the reader appreciate the ups and downs of this arranged marriage, as well as this couple's very HEA.
Content 411: This book is a clean read. There is no offensive language or sex.
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the author. I am voluntarily submitting my honest review.
July 17, 2023
Louise unexpectedly finds that she has been promised in marriage to Gareth, the future Earl of Shrewsbury, by her parents who were friends of his parents. When she meets him she finds that his appearance befits a boxer, rather than a noble, whereas he finds her rather plain and drab. After this inauspicious start she decides to make a go of their marriage, however things naturally don't go smoothly.
This book reminds me of how much I do enjoy Regency romances, with the elegance of the times - although no doubt I would have been one of the lesser classes, rather than a noble. I did like Louise, although I did find Gareth too much of a stick in the mud and a man of the times. His grandmother was also rather a character. I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy Regency romances or would like to try the genre, although please note that there are some closed door spicy moments.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however this did not influenced my review of the book.
This book reminds me of how much I do enjoy Regency romances, with the elegance of the times - although no doubt I would have been one of the lesser classes, rather than a noble. I did like Louise, although I did find Gareth too much of a stick in the mud and a man of the times. His grandmother was also rather a character. I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy Regency romances or would like to try the genre, although please note that there are some closed door spicy moments.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however this did not influenced my review of the book.
July 26, 2023
Pure Joy!
In my humble opinion, this is the best story this author has written to date!
I simply could not put it down – I was that enthralled and mesmerised by it.
I absolutely loved the characters of Louise and Gareth.
Louise has an artistic talent which she uses to draw caricatures of people she comes into contact with. According to her, this is her only useful ability.
Then we have Gareth, the strong gentleman who agrees to his arranged marriage which both of their fathers had previously arranged, but his intention is to keep his lover even after he weds. He soon finds that he has a passion for the plain, rather dowdy and unattractive Louise and the story takes many a twist and turn before it comes to its delightful and pleasing happy ever after.
This is one story which grabbed and held me in its grip and would not let go!
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book and my voluntary review is recorded above.
In my humble opinion, this is the best story this author has written to date!
I simply could not put it down – I was that enthralled and mesmerised by it.
I absolutely loved the characters of Louise and Gareth.
Louise has an artistic talent which she uses to draw caricatures of people she comes into contact with. According to her, this is her only useful ability.
Then we have Gareth, the strong gentleman who agrees to his arranged marriage which both of their fathers had previously arranged, but his intention is to keep his lover even after he weds. He soon finds that he has a passion for the plain, rather dowdy and unattractive Louise and the story takes many a twist and turn before it comes to its delightful and pleasing happy ever after.
This is one story which grabbed and held me in its grip and would not let go!
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book and my voluntary review is recorded above.
November 6, 2023
This book starts with a very interesting premise. What if the hero and the heroine are not good-looking and not charming either? Can they still enjoy a happily ever after?
The premise really needs strong characters and challenges to bring them together & appreciate each others inner goodness. However, after reading the entire book, I did not connect with the characters at all and the premise did not lead to anything.
*mild spoiler*
The challenges they face seem to be so boring - wife losing large sum of money gambling, the husbands mistress trying to get back with him etc. All of these situations appear so mundane for a Regency romance. Even their resolution is quite boring. They are solved simply by threatening the other person or by explanation.
I have read better books by this author and would not go out of my way to recommend this to anyone.
The premise really needs strong characters and challenges to bring them together & appreciate each others inner goodness. However, after reading the entire book, I did not connect with the characters at all and the premise did not lead to anything.
*mild spoiler*
The challenges they face seem to be so boring - wife losing large sum of money gambling, the husbands mistress trying to get back with him etc. All of these situations appear so mundane for a Regency romance. Even their resolution is quite boring. They are solved simply by threatening the other person or by explanation.
I have read better books by this author and would not go out of my way to recommend this to anyone.
July 2, 2024
Can An Arranged Marriage Be Arranged ?
When the two plainest people in London enter into an arranged marriage the ton isn't so much surprised as counting the days to an arranged separation.
Louise is too short, too dull and too dowdy and the Earl is positively frightening, with his frowning demeanor and massive shoulders.
He's willing to marry her because he doesn't expect a dowdy wife to impact his lifestyle and other relationships. She's willing to marry him because ugly and unmannerly as he is, she is for some unaccountable reason drawn to the man. Louise vows to arrange the marriage to her own satisfaction, but when he appears to have another love interest, her anger and sorrow lead her to make a big mistake, which he responds to just as foolishly. Ah me! The course of true love ne'er did run smooth!
When the two plainest people in London enter into an arranged marriage the ton isn't so much surprised as counting the days to an arranged separation.
Louise is too short, too dull and too dowdy and the Earl is positively frightening, with his frowning demeanor and massive shoulders.
He's willing to marry her because he doesn't expect a dowdy wife to impact his lifestyle and other relationships. She's willing to marry him because ugly and unmannerly as he is, she is for some unaccountable reason drawn to the man. Louise vows to arrange the marriage to her own satisfaction, but when he appears to have another love interest, her anger and sorrow lead her to make a big mistake, which he responds to just as foolishly. Ah me! The course of true love ne'er did run smooth!
September 6, 2023
A delightful read!
I'm a huge admirer of romances that are character-driven. Even when the plot is somewhat foreseeable, as long as the characters feel authentic and relatable, I'm fully engaged. This holds true for "A Marriage is Arranged" by GL Robinson.
A delightful read! I've grown accustomed to romance novels often following a formulaic and lackluster style, so it was a delightful surprise to discover this book's well-crafted prose. The characters are meticulously developed and intriguing, mirroring the complexity of the storyline itself. An arranged marriage between two seemingly unremarkable individuals, an unconventional premise for a romance novel, yet it proves to be a compelling choice.
This is indeed a great read! It deserves a total 5/5 rating.
I'm a huge admirer of romances that are character-driven. Even when the plot is somewhat foreseeable, as long as the characters feel authentic and relatable, I'm fully engaged. This holds true for "A Marriage is Arranged" by GL Robinson.
A delightful read! I've grown accustomed to romance novels often following a formulaic and lackluster style, so it was a delightful surprise to discover this book's well-crafted prose. The characters are meticulously developed and intriguing, mirroring the complexity of the storyline itself. An arranged marriage between two seemingly unremarkable individuals, an unconventional premise for a romance novel, yet it proves to be a compelling choice.
This is indeed a great read! It deserves a total 5/5 rating.
August 13, 2024
I listened to the audiobook version of this title read by the author.
This was a nice cosy Regency novel (the second of hers that I’ve listened to), but unfortunately it is spoiled by the author narrating it herself! She just doesn’t have the voice for it. She has neither range or drama, she cannot make her voice sound younger than she is and her natural voice is raspy (like a smokers cough). The stories are good, but she doesn’t do her written talent ANY FAVOURS with her narration skills (or lack thereof). You don’t enjoy it as much as you should.
I’m going to try the next title using my Amazon Alexa narration! The Kindle editions are on KU and I won’t subsequently bemoan the cost of a credit! Or failing that, I’ll read it myself! 😄
This was a nice cosy Regency novel (the second of hers that I’ve listened to), but unfortunately it is spoiled by the author narrating it herself! She just doesn’t have the voice for it. She has neither range or drama, she cannot make her voice sound younger than she is and her natural voice is raspy (like a smokers cough). The stories are good, but she doesn’t do her written talent ANY FAVOURS with her narration skills (or lack thereof). You don’t enjoy it as much as you should.
I’m going to try the next title using my Amazon Alexa narration! The Kindle editions are on KU and I won’t subsequently bemoan the cost of a credit! Or failing that, I’ll read it myself! 😄
June 20, 2023
Another absolutely delightful read that revolves around a young lady and young man who enter into a marriage arranged many years ago between their fathers. What makes the story unique is how it focuses around the personalities of two individuals who are not considered very good looking (something not strongly alluded to in romance stories).
How they get through their misunderstandings, differences and difficulty situations is revealed in the usual witty and entertaining manner that, I feel, this author always delivers her stories. A sweet and clean read just adds to the enjoyment of reading this story.
How they get through their misunderstandings, differences and difficulty situations is revealed in the usual witty and entertaining manner that, I feel, this author always delivers her stories. A sweet and clean read just adds to the enjoyment of reading this story.
September 4, 2023
Enjoyable romance
A fun read! I am so used to romance novels being written in a certain style (simply, generically, and badly) that I was so pleasantly surprised to find this book was written well. The characters are well thought out and interesting, and so is the storyline. An arranged marriage between two dowdy people - I would never have thought that a romance novel would be about something like that. But it works really well, and you find yourself rooting for this odd couple. I particularly enjoyed the character of Louise, the bride, with her humorous caricature drawings of people and her sly sense of humor and sense of observation. Good book!
A fun read! I am so used to romance novels being written in a certain style (simply, generically, and badly) that I was so pleasantly surprised to find this book was written well. The characters are well thought out and interesting, and so is the storyline. An arranged marriage between two dowdy people - I would never have thought that a romance novel would be about something like that. But it works really well, and you find yourself rooting for this odd couple. I particularly enjoyed the character of Louise, the bride, with her humorous caricature drawings of people and her sly sense of humor and sense of observation. Good book!
September 5, 2023
This is a delightful tale that defies societal expectations in the Regency era. Louise and the Earl, both considered plain by London's standards, enter into an arranged marriage that raises eyebrows. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of their unconventional union, blending humor, intrigue, and heartfelt emotion.
The story explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the unpredictable nature of the heart. The characters' relatability and the Regency backdrop add charm to this tale. Author Robinson weaves a narrative where true love faces obstacles, making "A Marriage is Arranged" a charming and entertaining Regency romance that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
The story explores themes of self-discovery, love, and the unpredictable nature of the heart. The characters' relatability and the Regency backdrop add charm to this tale. Author Robinson weaves a narrative where true love faces obstacles, making "A Marriage is Arranged" a charming and entertaining Regency romance that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages.
September 8, 2023
When the two most unlikely people in London are forced to comply with an arranged marriage, nobody expects things to go well. But love has its way, although this way can be rocky and painful sometimes. This great novel takes readers to the fascinating world of a Regency romance. What I like the most about the story is the characters. The two protagonists are not the typical strong male figure and the lady in distress. They have flaws, they are equally strong and sensitive and they feel very real and relatable. They push the plot forward carrying readers with them to a fascinating end. The author, G.L. Robinson, has crafted a wonderful tale that I strongly recommend.
September 8, 2023
A Marriage is Arranged by GL Robinson is an atypical romance novel that caught my attention from the very begging. Fan as I am of romantic stories and it common and regular structure, I have to say that I completely fell for this narrative and its characters. After reading this book, I have a fresh new look about love stories. The plot is about Louise and the Earl, both considered plain by London's standards. They enter into an arranged marriage that makes everyone turn their heads upon their shoulders. The author does a marvellous job in unveiling the complexities of their union. All along the novel, I found humor, intrigue, and emotion. I simply loved the story. 100% recommendable.
September 9, 2023
"A Marriage is Arranged" by G.L. Robinson is a delightful Regency romance that deftly explores the complexities of love and relationships. In a society where appearances matter greatly, the story follows Louise and the Earl, two seemingly mismatched individuals thrown into an arranged marriage. The author created a tale of unexpected attraction and budding affection between these characters. The book challenges societal norms and expectations, highlighting that true love can transcend appearances and preconceived notions.
The narrative is filled with humor, misunderstandings, and genuine emotion, making it an engaging read for fans of Regency romance. Recommended!
The narrative is filled with humor, misunderstandings, and genuine emotion, making it an engaging read for fans of Regency romance. Recommended!
October 28, 2024
I really enjoyed this arranged marriage romance. I can't quite put my finger on what it was that I liked so much, but whatever the case, the book left me wanting to read more of Robinson's novels.
Because this is an arranged marriage plot, sex plays an important part in the plot, but all sex takes place behind a closed door, and the emphasis is on dialogue and emotional reactions rather than spice. Character development does a lot of the work of making the story appealing. Robinson uses a third person omniscient POV that allows us to see inside the heads of minor characters, such as the lady's maid.
Recommended for readers who like traditional Regencies that emphasize the drawing room rather than the bedroom.
Because this is an arranged marriage plot, sex plays an important part in the plot, but all sex takes place behind a closed door, and the emphasis is on dialogue and emotional reactions rather than spice. Character development does a lot of the work of making the story appealing. Robinson uses a third person omniscient POV that allows us to see inside the heads of minor characters, such as the lady's maid.
Recommended for readers who like traditional Regencies that emphasize the drawing room rather than the bedroom.
January 2, 2024
For nobles, naive!
A very different view of nobles, usually they are beautiful, but this time, neither are! Gareth, an Earl is reported to be short, heavy shoulders and chest, with thick eyebrows and a big nose! And Louise is short, stain with unruly curly hair and plain face. The Earl needs a wife, and his grandmother informs his father, both parents died in China while he’s at Eton, had promised his hand to his old friend’s daughter! And Louise learns it from her mother, so they are wed, and London was not prepared for them!
A very different view of nobles, usually they are beautiful, but this time, neither are! Gareth, an Earl is reported to be short, heavy shoulders and chest, with thick eyebrows and a big nose! And Louise is short, stain with unruly curly hair and plain face. The Earl needs a wife, and his grandmother informs his father, both parents died in China while he’s at Eton, had promised his hand to his old friend’s daughter! And Louise learns it from her mother, so they are wed, and London was not prepared for them!
January 10, 2024
Audiobook: I enjoyed this Regency romance story. The story was based on one of my favorite tropes that of arranged marriages. Louise agreed to marry the Earl as she was attracted to him. The Earl agreed to marry Louise because he thought she wouldn't change his current lifestyle. The relationship went through some misunderstandings and some sweet moments. I enjoyed the flashes of humor. GL Robinson's narration was good, and her performance brought the story to life. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
May 10, 2024
A good read.
I enjoyed this novel, it was an interesting read.
Some of the writing lacked a little “polish” in its presentation but the overall storyline is well worth overlooking this minor criticism.
There were small mini epilogues of minor characters towards the end which threw me a little but it was nice to see a follow through of those characters. The lack of an epilogue at the end is rectified by inclusions in the last chapter and I found it nice to have that completion to the novel.
I enjoyed this novel, it was an interesting read.
Some of the writing lacked a little “polish” in its presentation but the overall storyline is well worth overlooking this minor criticism.
There were small mini epilogues of minor characters towards the end which threw me a little but it was nice to see a follow through of those characters. The lack of an epilogue at the end is rectified by inclusions in the last chapter and I found it nice to have that completion to the novel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 91 reviews