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The Lucky Ladies of London #1
Lady He Lost
Her only interest is in making her own way in the world. Luckily, he can help. Lieutenant Eli Williams was supposed to be dead. In the two years since his shipwreck, his friends and family mourned him, his brother spent his savings, and his fiancée married someone else. So, when he turns up in the middle of the London social season citing the wild reasons for his absence, it creates quite a stir. All Eli wants is to set his life back in order and mend his relationship with his former friend Jane, whom he secretly loves, before returning to sea. But Jane Bishop refuses to waste any more of her life pining over Eli, who chose her cousin instead of her. She needs to focus on gaining her financial independence by establishing her ladies' gambling club. Never mind that Eli keeps trying to atone for his past mistake by bringing in new members and sharing steamy kisses with her when no one is looking. The fact that he's obviously keeping secrets about his disappearance means that she can't trust him with her heart, even if she wants to. As Eli goes above and beyond to support Jane, her defensive walls begin to fall. But when Eli faces a court of inquiry on suspicion of desertion, Jane must decide if she can let go of the past and stand by Eli or risk losing their love for good. This charming and sexy friends to enemies to lovers historical romance romp is the perfect read for fans of Evie Dunmore and India Holton.
Audio CD
First published April 2, 2024
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About the author
Faye Delacour
3 books127 followersFaye Delacour was raised in the Canadian prairies before deciding that she needed a challenge and should move to a place where everybody spoke French. She now lives and works in Montreal with her partner and children, a reformed street cat, and a shepherd who hasn't yet accepted that he can't herd the cat.
Faye writes historical romance featuring strong, feminist heroines and enthusiastic consent.
Faye writes historical romance featuring strong, feminist heroines and enthusiastic consent.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 345 reviews
April 4, 2024
I don’t think there was much wrong with it, but I was bored as sin…so maybe there wasn’t much right with it either. The narrator also didn’t help, as she sounded a bit wispy and breathy. A book where the hero returns from the dead should be so exciting!!! But the story just never kicked off for me. I probably would’ve DNFed if it wasn’t an arc. Bonus points for virgin hero though! But then minus those bonus points for her horrible brother and mostly horrible/only slightly redeemed cousin.
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I received an ALC from Dreamscape Media. All opinions are honest and my own.
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I received an ALC from Dreamscape Media. All opinions are honest and my own.
April 12, 2024
When the man you love goes missing - presumed dead - you do what you have to do to get on with your life... especially considering that he was engaged to your mean girl cousin. Jane has done just that: she's starting a gaming club with her BFF and they're planning to make it a going concern. But then, Eli (that man Jane loves) shows back up. He's not engaged to her cousin anymore, and he seems to be interested in her.
We saw a ton of potential in this debut historical romance: the characters were consistent and appealing, the banter was on point, and the plot moved at a cracking pace. Also these are two horny characters, which we appreciated. Sure, the plot runs a little bit on romance reasons (Jane is really pissed at Eli but also decides that she trusts him to give her discreet orgasms) but on the whole we enjoyed it. The ending went a little bit off the rails, and we would have loved a little more groveling (or decisiveness?) from Eli, but that didn't mean we didn't enjoy the hell out of this book.
11-Word Summaries:
Laine: When you're engaged to someone you don't like, a shipwreck isn't the worst.
Meg: Eli’s not dead but is interested in Jane. What’re the odds?
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
We saw a ton of potential in this debut historical romance: the characters were consistent and appealing, the banter was on point, and the plot moved at a cracking pace. Also these are two horny characters, which we appreciated. Sure, the plot runs a little bit on romance reasons (Jane is really pissed at Eli but also decides that she trusts him to give her discreet orgasms) but on the whole we enjoyed it. The ending went a little bit off the rails, and we would have loved a little more groveling (or decisiveness?) from Eli, but that didn't mean we didn't enjoy the hell out of this book.
11-Word Summaries:
Laine: When you're engaged to someone you don't like, a shipwreck isn't the worst.
Meg: Eli’s not dead but is interested in Jane. What’re the odds?
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
April 28, 2024
2.5⭐️ The first two pages promised a breezy although anachronistic HR. By page three the story settled into the doldrums.
Very little of interest happened. Eli returned “from the dead” with a secret that was kept under wraps from the reader for the majority of the book but referred to in each chapter. Jane had ambiguous feelings about Eli which she repressed by dwelling on her suspicions he wasn’t telling the full truth… at least once per chapter.
Because of this stall pattern, I lost interest. I should have DNF but there was nothing pressing in my library queue. Instead, I took frequent and long breaks. Upon each return I was surprised the book had not read itself and plunked me onto a new chapter. Kinda like the way I expect my house to clean itself while I’m reading. *shoves empty Amazon carton away to sidle up to computer*
Anyway, the last 10% picked up somewhat, but I was never convinced Eli’s dilemma was authentic or how another 3rd act issue was satisfactorily resolved.
Honorable mentions go to Della, Hal (possible future match?), and dear Uncle Bertie.
Very little of interest happened. Eli returned “from the dead” with a secret that was kept under wraps from the reader for the majority of the book but referred to in each chapter. Jane had ambiguous feelings about Eli which she repressed by dwelling on her suspicions he wasn’t telling the full truth… at least once per chapter.
Because of this stall pattern, I lost interest. I should have DNF but there was nothing pressing in my library queue. Instead, I took frequent and long breaks. Upon each return I was surprised the book had not read itself and plunked me onto a new chapter. Kinda like the way I expect my house to clean itself while I’m reading. *shoves empty Amazon carton away to sidle up to computer*
Anyway, the last 10% picked up somewhat, but I was never convinced Eli’s dilemma was authentic or how another 3rd act issue was satisfactorily resolved.
Honorable mentions go to Della, Hal (possible future match?), and dear Uncle Bertie.
February 1, 2024
4 stars ~ Arc Review
No one wanted an orphaned lady without any dowry for a wife. Much less one who aspires to run a clandestine gambling club…
Straight-laced lady Jane Bishop wants to start an all-female gambling club to ensure the state of her financial future. Unfortunately, it's easier said than done when her long-lost love comes back and wreaks havoc on her life.
Lt. Eli Williams appears out of nowhere after being pronounced dead for two years; shipwrecked and captured by pirates. Eli holds a life-changing secret that could leave a devastating impact on those around him. He must, first, try to win Jane's trust and love back before it's too late. Love and admiration reconnect Jane and Eli, making “the lady he lost”, “the lady he found”.
Pros:
- Well-written story
- Love Eli and Jane
- Some spicy moments
- All female gambling club
Cons:
- I hated one of the characters - very catty woman (Cecily)
- I wish it had more steam (I like a lot of steam and spice in my books)
Overall, I give this book 4 stars. Great debut novel by Faye Delacour. I look forward to reading more of her books! Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this free arc in exchange for my honest review. The book debuts April 2nd, 2024.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram - readinginbliss!
No one wanted an orphaned lady without any dowry for a wife. Much less one who aspires to run a clandestine gambling club…
Straight-laced lady Jane Bishop wants to start an all-female gambling club to ensure the state of her financial future. Unfortunately, it's easier said than done when her long-lost love comes back and wreaks havoc on her life.
Lt. Eli Williams appears out of nowhere after being pronounced dead for two years; shipwrecked and captured by pirates. Eli holds a life-changing secret that could leave a devastating impact on those around him. He must, first, try to win Jane's trust and love back before it's too late. Love and admiration reconnect Jane and Eli, making “the lady he lost”, “the lady he found”.
Pros:
- Well-written story
- Love Eli and Jane
- Some spicy moments
- All female gambling club
Cons:
- I hated one of the characters - very catty woman (Cecily)
- I wish it had more steam (I like a lot of steam and spice in my books)
Overall, I give this book 4 stars. Great debut novel by Faye Delacour. I look forward to reading more of her books! Thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this free arc in exchange for my honest review. The book debuts April 2nd, 2024.
Be sure to follow me on Instagram - readinginbliss!
April 24, 2024
This was a nice debut. I liked both main characters and enjoyed them together. However, much of it was slow, and nothing much actually happened. You would think a book about someone coming back after being mistakenly pronounced dead would be more interesting. The ending also felt a bit rushed.
Overall, this book had a lot of potential, and I'm hopeful that subsequent books in this series will be more interesting.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Overall, this book had a lot of potential, and I'm hopeful that subsequent books in this series will be more interesting.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
April 3, 2024
so the MCs were friends as teens, he tried flirting with her a lot and she never responded then one night when he was drunk he takes a walk in the garden with her cousin and is caught kissing her by the uncle, so he offers to marry the cousin then goes off to the navy (he’s 18). He’s reported dead when his ship goes down but comes back 5 years later and the cousin he proposed to is all married up with a baby so when he tries getting close to Jane, she feels like she’s his second choice. The first half of the book is him asking to speak to her alone and her refusing while this whole set up keeps repeating itself in their internal monologues - it’s not entertaining.
What’s wild is this dude was captured and held captive by pirates for years but she feels like there’s something off about his story so she’s like, “he’s keeping secrets from me!” This is somewhat true, there’s more to the story he can’t divulge for security reasons. It was so weird how she never really stopped to contemplate how awful his experience must’ve been for him and instead fixates on how he’s still not telling her something, he even says, “I hope we’re at a place where I can tell you more about it,” it’s obvious he’s unable to say more and it’s not personal but she keeps holding it against him like he can’t be trusted. I did not understand this!
I guess her aspirations to own a gambling hall are cool but since she’s so bratty and only cares about what her awful, competitive cousin thinks of her, this never really feels like part of her character and is just kind of in the background. Her friend even asks her why she only cares about what this chick thinks over her own happiness, so this is not my interpretation. And there’s a moment where another friend points out how they feel bad for what the hero went through and it dawns on the heroine, so her never considering that is also not my interpretation.
All of this was weird but I really liked the final quarter of the book, everything resolved in a satisfying way. If this book was 100 pages shorter, there would be less need for petty conflict that makes the heroine look selfish and it would’ve made more sense.
What’s wild is this dude was captured and held captive by pirates for years but she feels like there’s something off about his story so she’s like, “he’s keeping secrets from me!” This is somewhat true, there’s more to the story he can’t divulge for security reasons. It was so weird how she never really stopped to contemplate how awful his experience must’ve been for him and instead fixates on how he’s still not telling her something, he even says, “I hope we’re at a place where I can tell you more about it,” it’s obvious he’s unable to say more and it’s not personal but she keeps holding it against him like he can’t be trusted. I did not understand this!
I guess her aspirations to own a gambling hall are cool but since she’s so bratty and only cares about what her awful, competitive cousin thinks of her, this never really feels like part of her character and is just kind of in the background. Her friend even asks her why she only cares about what this chick thinks over her own happiness, so this is not my interpretation. And there’s a moment where another friend points out how they feel bad for what the hero went through and it dawns on the heroine, so her never considering that is also not my interpretation.
All of this was weird but I really liked the final quarter of the book, everything resolved in a satisfying way. If this book was 100 pages shorter, there would be less need for petty conflict that makes the heroine look selfish and it would’ve made more sense.
December 15, 2023
What an interesting premise! Jane is trying to create a gaming club that caters to society women so that she will be financially independent. Her parents died when she was younger and one uncle has been caring for her while another helps financially. She's also concerned about her younger brother. Jane participated in the season, but without a dowry, she's never found a match. Her outgoing cousin, Cecily, was more successful.
Eli Williams is a lieutenant in the Navy who was thought to be dead after a shipwreck. He was engaged to Cecily, but Jane had feelings for him as well. Cecily moved on and married someone else while Jane kept her mourning private. Eli was shipwrecked...but he was also picked up by pirates. The book opens as he arrives back in England and attempts to put his life back together.
You can't help but root for Jane as she tries to protect herself and Eli as he tries to undo some of the hurt he's inflicted. The writing allows for a fast read. The story stands alone, but could also be the start of a series, as there are other characters that could use their "happily ever after."
Eli Williams is a lieutenant in the Navy who was thought to be dead after a shipwreck. He was engaged to Cecily, but Jane had feelings for him as well. Cecily moved on and married someone else while Jane kept her mourning private. Eli was shipwrecked...but he was also picked up by pirates. The book opens as he arrives back in England and attempts to put his life back together.
You can't help but root for Jane as she tries to protect herself and Eli as he tries to undo some of the hurt he's inflicted. The writing allows for a fast read. The story stands alone, but could also be the start of a series, as there are other characters that could use their "happily ever after."
March 27, 2024
for a second there this seemed like it was gonna be good but then it turned out to be extremely mediocre
March 21, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Thank you, NetGalley, Sourcebook Casablanca, and Dreamscape Media for an early copy of this book.
Even though I´m not a super fan of historical romances this one was reeeeally cute! I enjoyed it a lot!!!
I found the story and the characters very interesting. Eli and Jane had unmatched chemistry and all their scenes were just spot on!
I also really enjoyed the side characters, there was a little bit of everything. The super cute and loving uncle, the bitchy and annoying cousin, the young little sister, the crazily brilliant best friend (whom I hope will be the protagonist of the next book in the series).
As far as debut novels go this one was really good.
If you are a fan of Bridgerton I think this book is a must for you.
I also liked the amount of spice, not too much and not too little.
Overall I think it´s a well-deserved 4 stars.
Thank you, NetGalley, Sourcebook Casablanca, and Dreamscape Media for an early copy of this book.
Even though I´m not a super fan of historical romances this one was reeeeally cute! I enjoyed it a lot!!!
I found the story and the characters very interesting. Eli and Jane had unmatched chemistry and all their scenes were just spot on!
I also really enjoyed the side characters, there was a little bit of everything. The super cute and loving uncle, the bitchy and annoying cousin, the young little sister, the crazily brilliant best friend (whom I hope will be the protagonist of the next book in the series).
As far as debut novels go this one was really good.
If you are a fan of Bridgerton I think this book is a must for you.
I also liked the amount of spice, not too much and not too little.
Overall I think it´s a well-deserved 4 stars.
April 3, 2024
A fiercely independent heroine determined to secure her future without relying on men, and a hero equally committed to his mission of winning back her affection, The Lady He Lost is friends to enemies to lovers at its best. I loved every minute of watching Eli and Jane find their happily ever after.
April 6, 2025
This is a well-written, entertaining, historical romance novel. It has a likable, independent female protagonist, an engaging male protagonist, wit, a touch of humor, an unexpected twist or two, and a happily ever after ending. I am looking forward to reading the next entry in this series with great anticipation. I listened to the audio book, and Ms. Blythe Fortune does an excellent job narrating the story.
April 24, 2024
The premise here was so good - He was presumed dead! Now he’s back! The woman who loved him has given up on the idea of marriage and runs a gaming club! - but the execution lacked. Everything lacked.
Eli and Jane were shallowly developed for main characters. Their backstory wasn’t developed. Their feelings for one another in the past are never made clear, and so this longing for one another for 5 years seems a bit far-fetched. As does the complete lack of tension between Eli and Jane once Eli returns - Eli wants to talk things out, and Jane keeps shutting him down. Repeat for 200 pages. Have 100 pages of third-act tepid drama. The end.
Eli and Jane were shallowly developed for main characters. Their backstory wasn’t developed. Their feelings for one another in the past are never made clear, and so this longing for one another for 5 years seems a bit far-fetched. As does the complete lack of tension between Eli and Jane once Eli returns - Eli wants to talk things out, and Jane keeps shutting him down. Repeat for 200 pages. Have 100 pages of third-act tepid drama. The end.
December 11, 2023
A compelling hist-rom story about Jane, a woman with a genius for cards, and Eli, the man she loved -- once thought killed in a shipwreck -- now returned miraculously to Victorian London. Romance readers will devour this!
April 6, 2024
The cover for this book is sooo pretty! I had heard some great things from earlier reviews about this historical romance debut so I definitely went into this one with high hopes. But it ended up being just okay for me sadly.
Eli and Jane were friends growing up and as teens, he was kinda into her and flirted but she didn’t seem interested and he eventually moved on with her cousin instead and was even engaged to her. Then he went off with the Navy and when the ship wrecked he was presumed dead. But now it’s 2 years later and he rolls back in to a societal event! His friends and family already mourned him, his brother spent all his money, and his fiancé is now married to someone else with a baby on the way. But Jane still privately mourned for him! Now Eli is back and trying to sort out his life, while also seemingly into Jane again, and she has to decide what’s going to happen this time between them.
The premise for this sounded great! I love a “he’s been missing and presumed dead, but shows back up alive” plot so I did expect it to revolve around that more. Which it sorta does, but it also focuses on the heroine trying to become financially independent and her gambling club. The heroine was kinda annoying and flippant with her thoughts on the hero’s reappearance and what he actually went through. She’s more concerned about the secrets he is keeping instead of like what he went through. The whole “I was into you but got with your cousin instead” bit was kinda ick, but I was like okay he was young when that happened, but then when a secret is revealed towards the end of him being away for so long well that really icked me out too.
All in all, I was just left wanting more from this debut. Good bones, execution just wasn’t my favorite. The audio is on hoopla and Libby though, so there is that! And I would check out more from the author in the future, as this was a debut and all.
Eli and Jane were friends growing up and as teens, he was kinda into her and flirted but she didn’t seem interested and he eventually moved on with her cousin instead and was even engaged to her. Then he went off with the Navy and when the ship wrecked he was presumed dead. But now it’s 2 years later and he rolls back in to a societal event! His friends and family already mourned him, his brother spent all his money, and his fiancé is now married to someone else with a baby on the way. But Jane still privately mourned for him! Now Eli is back and trying to sort out his life, while also seemingly into Jane again, and she has to decide what’s going to happen this time between them.
The premise for this sounded great! I love a “he’s been missing and presumed dead, but shows back up alive” plot so I did expect it to revolve around that more. Which it sorta does, but it also focuses on the heroine trying to become financially independent and her gambling club. The heroine was kinda annoying and flippant with her thoughts on the hero’s reappearance and what he actually went through. She’s more concerned about the secrets he is keeping instead of like what he went through. The whole “I was into you but got with your cousin instead” bit was kinda ick, but I was like okay he was young when that happened, but then when a secret is revealed towards the end of him being away for so long well that really icked me out too.
All in all, I was just left wanting more from this debut. Good bones, execution just wasn’t my favorite. The audio is on hoopla and Libby though, so there is that! And I would check out more from the author in the future, as this was a debut and all.
August 21, 2025
3.5 stars
A new to me author, but a very decently written HR. The characters and the world building had charm, so it was comfortable to read. The romance between Eli and Jane was on the sweet side (with some quite steamy moments) but I think it could have been angstier to elevate the feels.
The main romance trope centered about the Jane feeling 'second best' as Eli was previously engaged to her cousin (spurred by an innocent kiss uncovered rather than genuine attraction). This trope could have been sizzling (and I had hoped it would have been) but instead too much time was devoted to silent misunderstandings.
For instance,
Like I said, I liked the story as spun by FD's pen but I do think some rounding the edges of some story key elements would have made it richer. And while I liked that they had their sweet ending, there were also some loose threads unanswered by the last chapter e.g. their financial dilemma, her brother, her uncle's marriage etc. As it is, the ending felt like things were kept loose and hanging in the air. For all these reasons, I am not rounding up my rating. But I will gladly read other titles from this author.
P.S. I love the colour scheme of that cover!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 19, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-second chance
-friends to estranged to lovers
-she owns a gaming hall
-he's back from the dead
-mutual pining
-it's always been you
-virgin hero
-incredible chemistry
This was just everything I wanted from a historical romance. Beautiful prose, incredible chemistry, and just a great plot that was pulling me through. Eli is returned from the dead and back in Jane's life. But she doesn't need a man. If you are a fan of Sarah MacLean's heroines this book is for you, just the pure independence I don't need you complicating my life I have my dreams I loved Jane so much.
The chemistry between these two was just so palapable the push and pull as Eli groveled and Jane tried to keep him at arms length, scared and trying to figure out how their lives could work together. To keep her choices. Gahhh just read this one. I can't wait to read whatever Faye has coming next.
I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)
-m/f historical romance
-second chance
-friends to estranged to lovers
-she owns a gaming hall
-he's back from the dead
-mutual pining
-it's always been you
-virgin hero
-incredible chemistry
This was just everything I wanted from a historical romance. Beautiful prose, incredible chemistry, and just a great plot that was pulling me through. Eli is returned from the dead and back in Jane's life. But she doesn't need a man. If you are a fan of Sarah MacLean's heroines this book is for you, just the pure independence I don't need you complicating my life I have my dreams I loved Jane so much.
The chemistry between these two was just so palapable the push and pull as Eli groveled and Jane tried to keep him at arms length, scared and trying to figure out how their lives could work together. To keep her choices. Gahhh just read this one. I can't wait to read whatever Faye has coming next.
April 10, 2024
I am a fan of the tropes this book appears to offer.
Some of it worked for me.
More of it didn't.
I guess I feel like there wasn't much payoff.
The gambling thing? *Insert sound of a single chip hitting a table*. Nothing much came of it so I suspect it is there to set the stage for the sequels.
The "big secret" *Insert deflating balloon noise* frankly didn't make a lot of sense and served to defer action more than anything else.
The reason for the whole "he chose my horrid cousin drama" and the rivalry *Insert sad sad trombone whomp whomp* didn't give me any kind of closure. Was it pacing? Was it execution? I don't know.
And...spoiler?....
the total BS heel turn of a minor character at the end? *Insert Oppenheimer in full theater Surround Sound atomic bomb detonation effect* Nope, nope, nope, nope.
I have read worse, for sure. I wouldn't tell anyone not to read this book. I am saying it was a disappointment. I will not be bothering with any more in the series.
Some of it worked for me.
More of it didn't.
I guess I feel like there wasn't much payoff.
The gambling thing? *Insert sound of a single chip hitting a table*. Nothing much came of it so I suspect it is there to set the stage for the sequels.
The "big secret" *Insert deflating balloon noise* frankly didn't make a lot of sense and served to defer action more than anything else.
The reason for the whole "he chose my horrid cousin drama" and the rivalry *Insert sad sad trombone whomp whomp* didn't give me any kind of closure. Was it pacing? Was it execution? I don't know.
And...spoiler?....
the total BS heel turn of a minor character at the end? *Insert Oppenheimer in full theater Surround Sound atomic bomb detonation effect* Nope, nope, nope, nope.
I have read worse, for sure. I wouldn't tell anyone not to read this book. I am saying it was a disappointment. I will not be bothering with any more in the series.
March 30, 2024
As delightful and steamy and angsty as advertised by friends! I REALLY loved the concept behind this one, with Eli coming back after all believed him to be dead (the Persuasion/Poldark comparisons feel very apt), although the romance for me was the strongest part and the surrounding elements weren’t as solid in execution. Eli and Jane’s chemistry is off-the-charts, and while the resolution of most of the side plots felt somewhat more rushed/neatly tidied up by comparison, there’s plenty here to love. A very strong debut from a historical romance author I’d love to read more from!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this edition from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this edition from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 5, 2024
OKAY YES OKAY.
This is the sort of historical romance I've been wanting to read for ages and nothing has come through like this. It landed with a great combo of character and plot and even a couple of things I didn't super care about, but didn't ultimately impact my enjoyment of this. The romance is great, the pining is great, there is no third act breakup! but there is a third act complication!, the ~lie is reasonable and isn't kept from Jane or the reader in a convoluted way. I cannot wait to see what Delacour does next, I'm just so thrilled by this.
Also, Eli? MAJOR Miles Dorrington vibes, iykyk
This is the sort of historical romance I've been wanting to read for ages and nothing has come through like this. It landed with a great combo of character and plot and even a couple of things I didn't super care about, but didn't ultimately impact my enjoyment of this. The romance is great, the pining is great, there is no third act breakup! but there is a third act complication!, the ~lie is reasonable and isn't kept from Jane or the reader in a convoluted way. I cannot wait to see what Delacour does next, I'm just so thrilled by this.
Also, Eli? MAJOR Miles Dorrington vibes, iykyk
April 9, 2024
Vibes: back from the dead, sweet guy/card sharp girl, unfinished business
Heat Index: 6/10
For two years, Lieutenant Eli Williams has been presumed dead following a shipwreck. He comes home to find that his money's gone (thanks to his brother), his fiancee married another man, and his former friend Jane... still hates him. Though Eli wants to fix things before returning to sea, Jane has bigger plans in mind. Eli chose her cousin over her, and she's bent on locking in her own future through her ladies' gambling club. As Eli works to regain her affection by bringing in new members, she's determined to resist--but can she?
This is one of those books where I liked the writing style and saw definite potential in the author (and it's important to note, I think, that this is her debut). However, I can't say that I was completely wowed. This is a brisk romance with some solid heat, and I would recommend it for readers who like something on the lighter side, if that makes sense. I just personally would've preferred a bit more done with this concept.
Quick Takes:
--Part of why I may be a little more on the "whelmed" side with this one is that I don't know that the marketing matches this book. This is a great cover--and I do feel like the lighting, the colors, the intimacy suggest something a bit angstier when coupled with the back copy. Despite it being a book about two people coming back together after the hero is presumed dead... It never felt that serious?
And because it didn't feel that serious, I also didn't really get the anger Jane felt towards Eli. Personally, it felt a bit "I had dibs on him!" which I.... don't care for! I enjoy an unlikable heroine, but I just didn't get Jane. I didn't get her beef with Eli. It felt unjustified, but it also felt like the story didn't get that it was unjustified, which made her come off as annoying. For me, at least. I did enjoy her angle as a card sharp.
--I appreciated Delacour's effort to add diversity into the story. Yes, a supporting queer character who doesn't suffer isn't like, smashing windows, but it does matter. Especially in historical romance, which can be more on the conservative side. Casual positive representation makes a difference, and it's the kind of little detail that makes me feel like the author was really thinking carefully as she wrote.
--Eli is a sweetie. The thing is that because he's a sweetie, you kind of have to accept him taking a lot of shit from Jane throughout the story. And if he's taking a lot of shit without really dishing it out, is it? Enemies to lovers? I'd say no. It's not a bad thing, but it's not enemies to lovers.
The Sex:
You get several good scenes, not that are super explicit, but all of which are sexy. I really enjoyed the fact that this is a book wherein the leads begin a "casual" situationship... While also clarifying that he can't put it in. Because historical romance and the heroine caring about whether or not she gets pregnant.
(Do they fully succeed in the whole "not putting it in" thing? Well, perhaps for longer than they would have had this book come out 20 years ago.)
You get some hero masturbation (yes!) some dry humping, and... ladies and gentlemen... we have virgin hero! The sex isn't crazy, but it is hot, in and in large part because of how Delacour writes Eli's mindset. Poor fella. God bless him.
I wish I'd loved this, but I was kind of in the camp of "it didn't thrill me, it didn't make me mad, and I do see promise". I'd like to try something else from Faye Delacour. However, I do think we need to see more drama to back up the hype for the next release.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Heat Index: 6/10
For two years, Lieutenant Eli Williams has been presumed dead following a shipwreck. He comes home to find that his money's gone (thanks to his brother), his fiancee married another man, and his former friend Jane... still hates him. Though Eli wants to fix things before returning to sea, Jane has bigger plans in mind. Eli chose her cousin over her, and she's bent on locking in her own future through her ladies' gambling club. As Eli works to regain her affection by bringing in new members, she's determined to resist--but can she?
This is one of those books where I liked the writing style and saw definite potential in the author (and it's important to note, I think, that this is her debut). However, I can't say that I was completely wowed. This is a brisk romance with some solid heat, and I would recommend it for readers who like something on the lighter side, if that makes sense. I just personally would've preferred a bit more done with this concept.
Quick Takes:
--Part of why I may be a little more on the "whelmed" side with this one is that I don't know that the marketing matches this book. This is a great cover--and I do feel like the lighting, the colors, the intimacy suggest something a bit angstier when coupled with the back copy. Despite it being a book about two people coming back together after the hero is presumed dead... It never felt that serious?
And because it didn't feel that serious, I also didn't really get the anger Jane felt towards Eli. Personally, it felt a bit "I had dibs on him!" which I.... don't care for! I enjoy an unlikable heroine, but I just didn't get Jane. I didn't get her beef with Eli. It felt unjustified, but it also felt like the story didn't get that it was unjustified, which made her come off as annoying. For me, at least. I did enjoy her angle as a card sharp.
--I appreciated Delacour's effort to add diversity into the story. Yes, a supporting queer character who doesn't suffer isn't like, smashing windows, but it does matter. Especially in historical romance, which can be more on the conservative side. Casual positive representation makes a difference, and it's the kind of little detail that makes me feel like the author was really thinking carefully as she wrote.
--Eli is a sweetie. The thing is that because he's a sweetie, you kind of have to accept him taking a lot of shit from Jane throughout the story. And if he's taking a lot of shit without really dishing it out, is it? Enemies to lovers? I'd say no. It's not a bad thing, but it's not enemies to lovers.
The Sex:
You get several good scenes, not that are super explicit, but all of which are sexy. I really enjoyed the fact that this is a book wherein the leads begin a "casual" situationship... While also clarifying that he can't put it in. Because historical romance and the heroine caring about whether or not she gets pregnant.
(Do they fully succeed in the whole "not putting it in" thing? Well, perhaps for longer than they would have had this book come out 20 years ago.)
You get some hero masturbation (yes!) some dry humping, and... ladies and gentlemen... we have virgin hero! The sex isn't crazy, but it is hot, in and in large part because of how Delacour writes Eli's mindset. Poor fella. God bless him.
I wish I'd loved this, but I was kind of in the camp of "it didn't thrill me, it didn't make me mad, and I do see promise". I'd like to try something else from Faye Delacour. However, I do think we need to see more drama to back up the hype for the next release.
Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 25, 2024
This felt very long—a lot happens, and frankly I was bored for most of it. The story is muddled and lacks focus, and the romance is all-tell-no-show. I wasn’t emotionally engaged with the characters. There’s no sense of urgency in the romance; I’m not talking about angst, but there’s no building of emotions, no sense of growing emotional intimacy. I was expecting a modicum of Persuasion and Poldark vibes, but there’s NOTHING of that here: there’s no longing, no yearning, no angst, no sense of two people slowly coming back together. There’s zero tension, and also no sense of momentum.
There’s a passivity to Eli that I found very frustrating. It’s as though the author conflated “supportive hero” with “passive do-nothing.” He just lets stuff happen to him, and although he repeatedly says he wants to earn Jane’s forgiveness, he’s lacking in some ability for reflection that would give him insight and direction—and this quality about him doesn’t change. His internal monologues are a rinse-repeat of “Hmm what does Jane mean by this” and “What do I do?”, and I lost patience with his inability to be straightforward. And at the end, his claim of ignorance as to the depth of Jane’s feelings is the weakest, most hollow excuse; it also reads as though he‘s blaming Jane for not expressing her feelings five years ago. Eli wants it both ways: he knows he made a mistake but also wants to claim it wasn’t really his fault. I also wasn’t sure if he actually loved her five years ago; again, the writing is muddy about his feelings for Jane.
What to say about Jane? Her ambition and resourcefulness were admirable, but I had little sense of her as a person; she’s good with numbers and wants to gain independence with her gaming club, and that’s basically her entire character. Oh, as well as her unending thoughts about Eli. The mental real estate she devotes to him quickly became tedious.
I despise when bullying side characters receive some kind of redemption or explanation for their cruel behaviour. Cancer is my sun sign so I hold grudges, and I say let assholes remain assholes. Let Cecily be a jealous immature bitch. Also, however well-meaning Uncle Bertie might have been, I could not forgive the way he allowed his daughter to bully Jane, nor his complete unwillingness to see his daughter for the mean-spirited bitch she is. Jane’s brother Edmund can go fuck off, too. Overall a tepid, unsatisfying story.
There’s a passivity to Eli that I found very frustrating. It’s as though the author conflated “supportive hero” with “passive do-nothing.” He just lets stuff happen to him, and although he repeatedly says he wants to earn Jane’s forgiveness, he’s lacking in some ability for reflection that would give him insight and direction—and this quality about him doesn’t change. His internal monologues are a rinse-repeat of “Hmm what does Jane mean by this” and “What do I do?”, and I lost patience with his inability to be straightforward. And at the end, his claim of ignorance as to the depth of Jane’s feelings is the weakest, most hollow excuse; it also reads as though he‘s blaming Jane for not expressing her feelings five years ago. Eli wants it both ways: he knows he made a mistake but also wants to claim it wasn’t really his fault. I also wasn’t sure if he actually loved her five years ago; again, the writing is muddy about his feelings for Jane.
What to say about Jane? Her ambition and resourcefulness were admirable, but I had little sense of her as a person; she’s good with numbers and wants to gain independence with her gaming club, and that’s basically her entire character. Oh, as well as her unending thoughts about Eli. The mental real estate she devotes to him quickly became tedious.
I despise when bullying side characters receive some kind of redemption or explanation for their cruel behaviour. Cancer is my sun sign so I hold grudges, and I say let assholes remain assholes. Let Cecily be a jealous immature bitch. Also, however well-meaning Uncle Bertie might have been, I could not forgive the way he allowed his daughter to bully Jane, nor his complete unwillingness to see his daughter for the mean-spirited bitch she is. Jane’s brother Edmund can go fuck off, too. Overall a tepid, unsatisfying story.
March 6, 2024
I started off loving this book but then it kind of lost momentum a little bit. I liked the FMC and understood right away that the MMC was holding a big secret but to me, that big secret seemed kind of underwhelming. I really couldn't stand the cousin sister (Cecily) and then at the end, the younger brother (Edmund?) was a really asshole to his sister. I liked most of the book but the last 10% felt rushed, like the author had written herself into a corner and needed a quick way out. However, I liked her voice well enough to definitely keep an eye out for future releases.
ARC via Netgalley, opinions are all mine.
ARC via Netgalley, opinions are all mine.
April 24, 2024
Such a fun premise. The most boring execution possible.
March 25, 2024
Review originally posted on Overflowing Shelf
Rating: 4.5 Stars
CW: Kidnapping; toxic relationship (not main couple); death of parents (off-page)
I first fell in love with The Lady He Lost because of its stunning cover! And I’m so glad that the story behind the cover is just as good! The Lady He Lost is a fantastic debut historical romance from Faye Delacour that had me laughing, swooning, and sighing as Eli and Jane find their way back to each other after his “death” at sea two years ago after getting engaged to her cousin.
If you’re looking for the perfect “it’s always been you” romance, The Lady He Lost would be it. I love a romance that packs an emotional gut punch with some heartache, and this book delivered! I’m truly obsessed with the romance between Jane and Eli. These two are so in love with each other, but there is a lot of hurt and history between them that they need to wade through to get to their happily ever after. This book definitely throws you right in, as I was getting all the feeling from the start with all the tension between them, given their history. I loved how deep the feelings go for both of them, and there are so many things left unsaid between them in the beginning that really add amazing depth to the romance.
I appreciated that Jane is not willing to let Eli back into her good graces so easily. But even as she tries to feign disinterest, you can tell how much she cares. This leads to some great banter and bickering between the two of them as they learn to navigate this new relationship and the sizzling sexual tension between them. And the pining! Ugh, I love it. And when they kiss – IN THE RAIN no less – oooh boy. All those true emotions come out when they’re alone together, and it’s so hot. These two are just so perfect for each other and watching them navigate their way through their complicated relationship to get the happily ever after is so rewarding.
I absolutely adored Jane. She’s determined to take control of her own future and claim her independence by running a ladies’ gaming club. She’s very practical and driven, so Eli showing up after being thought dead for two years definitely shakes her. She’s always been in love with him, but he hurt her deeply by getting engaged to her cousin (cue all the emotions!). I loved how she tries to be so cold and unfeeling towards him when she’s really a mess inside. Her relationship with her Uncle Bertie was also a highlight for me. Sweet Uncle Bertie isn’t perfect, but it’s clear he loves Jane deeply as he wants Jane settled and happy more than anything – and she wants to make him happy in return.
Eli’s had a rough few years. Everyone thought he was dead when his ship sank two years ago, but he was actually held captive by Greek pirates for that time…mostly. He definitely made many decisions in the past that have complicated things for himself now that he needs to try to untangle. I liked trying to unravel the mystery of his disappearance—there’s clearly more to it than he is initially sharing. I also loved how much he understands Jane. When it comes to her club, he not only supports it but actively encourages her to expand it and is willing to step aside for her to take the lead in the relationship. And despite being surrounded by a truly toxic relationship with his parents, he still wants to find a relationship that will bring him love and happiness.
Outside of Jane and Eli, I really enjoyed all the secondary characters in this. Jane’s friend and partner in the gaming club, Della, was one of my favorites, and I hope we see more of her! She was such a great friend, and so encouraging of everything Jane did – from the gaming club to Eli. Uncle Bertie’s another standout. He’s truly the sweetest. Even if he makes some choices that Jane may not like, he does have her best interests in mind. I love that he got his own happily ever after too, as he deserved it. I also hope we get to see more of Eli’s sister, Hannah, as I feel like she deserves to get a happily ever after as well after being stuck with their miserable parents.
If it’s not clear, I loved the premise of this book. Who doesn’t like it when someone you thought was dead for two years shows up unexpectedly? Plus, he was engaged to your cousin but was actually in love with you the whole time! So good! The pacing of the story was great, especially when it came to the romantic beats. I loved all the hints that there was more to Eli’s story than he was letting on. There was enough peppered in that the reveal wasn’t shocking, but still fun in its own way. The ending was a bit wild as a lot happened in the last 10%. That’s the only part that felt a tad rushed, but everything was resolved in a way that left me satisfied and happy, so I didn’t mind!
This was such a beautiful debut. I swear I highlighted like half of it as so many of the passages, particularly when it came to Eli or Jane talking about the other, were so beautiful and just hit right in the emotions! I also loved the humor Delacour wove into this. I seriously found myself chuckling so many times, including at the opening line. Overall the book felt so fun, and the tongue-in-cheek humor really added to it!
If The Lady He Lost was on your radar yet, ADD IT! It’s a beautiful debut historical romance filled with characters who are richly nuanced, a plot that is fun and engaging, and a romance that is so swoonworthy and hot. I had a blast while reading this as it was so fun but it also packed all the emotions I want from my romances! I cannot wait to see what Faye Delacour writes next, and I hope we’ll see some characters from this book get their own spinoffs!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca/Netgalley for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
CW: Kidnapping; toxic relationship (not main couple); death of parents (off-page)
I first fell in love with The Lady He Lost because of its stunning cover! And I’m so glad that the story behind the cover is just as good! The Lady He Lost is a fantastic debut historical romance from Faye Delacour that had me laughing, swooning, and sighing as Eli and Jane find their way back to each other after his “death” at sea two years ago after getting engaged to her cousin.
If you’re looking for the perfect “it’s always been you” romance, The Lady He Lost would be it. I love a romance that packs an emotional gut punch with some heartache, and this book delivered! I’m truly obsessed with the romance between Jane and Eli. These two are so in love with each other, but there is a lot of hurt and history between them that they need to wade through to get to their happily ever after. This book definitely throws you right in, as I was getting all the feeling from the start with all the tension between them, given their history. I loved how deep the feelings go for both of them, and there are so many things left unsaid between them in the beginning that really add amazing depth to the romance.
I appreciated that Jane is not willing to let Eli back into her good graces so easily. But even as she tries to feign disinterest, you can tell how much she cares. This leads to some great banter and bickering between the two of them as they learn to navigate this new relationship and the sizzling sexual tension between them. And the pining! Ugh, I love it. And when they kiss – IN THE RAIN no less – oooh boy. All those true emotions come out when they’re alone together, and it’s so hot. These two are just so perfect for each other and watching them navigate their way through their complicated relationship to get the happily ever after is so rewarding.
I absolutely adored Jane. She’s determined to take control of her own future and claim her independence by running a ladies’ gaming club. She’s very practical and driven, so Eli showing up after being thought dead for two years definitely shakes her. She’s always been in love with him, but he hurt her deeply by getting engaged to her cousin (cue all the emotions!). I loved how she tries to be so cold and unfeeling towards him when she’s really a mess inside. Her relationship with her Uncle Bertie was also a highlight for me. Sweet Uncle Bertie isn’t perfect, but it’s clear he loves Jane deeply as he wants Jane settled and happy more than anything – and she wants to make him happy in return.
Eli’s had a rough few years. Everyone thought he was dead when his ship sank two years ago, but he was actually held captive by Greek pirates for that time…mostly. He definitely made many decisions in the past that have complicated things for himself now that he needs to try to untangle. I liked trying to unravel the mystery of his disappearance—there’s clearly more to it than he is initially sharing. I also loved how much he understands Jane. When it comes to her club, he not only supports it but actively encourages her to expand it and is willing to step aside for her to take the lead in the relationship. And despite being surrounded by a truly toxic relationship with his parents, he still wants to find a relationship that will bring him love and happiness.
Outside of Jane and Eli, I really enjoyed all the secondary characters in this. Jane’s friend and partner in the gaming club, Della, was one of my favorites, and I hope we see more of her! She was such a great friend, and so encouraging of everything Jane did – from the gaming club to Eli. Uncle Bertie’s another standout. He’s truly the sweetest. Even if he makes some choices that Jane may not like, he does have her best interests in mind. I love that he got his own happily ever after too, as he deserved it. I also hope we get to see more of Eli’s sister, Hannah, as I feel like she deserves to get a happily ever after as well after being stuck with their miserable parents.
If it’s not clear, I loved the premise of this book. Who doesn’t like it when someone you thought was dead for two years shows up unexpectedly? Plus, he was engaged to your cousin but was actually in love with you the whole time! So good! The pacing of the story was great, especially when it came to the romantic beats. I loved all the hints that there was more to Eli’s story than he was letting on. There was enough peppered in that the reveal wasn’t shocking, but still fun in its own way. The ending was a bit wild as a lot happened in the last 10%. That’s the only part that felt a tad rushed, but everything was resolved in a way that left me satisfied and happy, so I didn’t mind!
This was such a beautiful debut. I swear I highlighted like half of it as so many of the passages, particularly when it came to Eli or Jane talking about the other, were so beautiful and just hit right in the emotions! I also loved the humor Delacour wove into this. I seriously found myself chuckling so many times, including at the opening line. Overall the book felt so fun, and the tongue-in-cheek humor really added to it!
If The Lady He Lost was on your radar yet, ADD IT! It’s a beautiful debut historical romance filled with characters who are richly nuanced, a plot that is fun and engaging, and a romance that is so swoonworthy and hot. I had a blast while reading this as it was so fun but it also packed all the emotions I want from my romances! I cannot wait to see what Faye Delacour writes next, and I hope we’ll see some characters from this book get their own spinoffs!
Thank you to Sourcebooks Casablanca/Netgalley for the ARC. All thoughts, ideas, and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 14, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
📖: The Lady He Lost
🖋️: Faye Delacour
🗓️: 4/02/24
⭐️: 5 of 5
💬: “I see you’re determined to make me kiss everyone then.”
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Second chances
✨Historical Romance
✨Arranged engagement
✨Dual POV
✨Hilarious moments
I’m not a historical romance fan but Faye easily turned me into one! I devoured this book in a couple of hours and loved it so much!🔥🔥 Can’t wait to check out more books by her!
Not just any day of the week, but on a Sunday, Lieutenant Eleazar Williams, was resurrected.
With the family having church plans for the day, they didn’t attend after their son knocked on the door.
“Terribly sorry to have frightened you.”
The family is shocked that their lost son is back. The family must work together to alert everyone that it’s true and that he is who he says he is.
Eli’s return throws Jane completely off and her feelings come flooding back. From the heartbreak of him being engaged to her cousin, with her never telling him about her feelings, and now he wants things to go back to how they used to be.
Jane’s uncle is obsessed with trying to marry her off but Jane isn’t a simple woman that wants to follow the same steps as the rest of the women. She wants to grow her independence with her gambling club.
“I think I’m going to kiss you.”
Can Jane allow Eli back into her heart? Will Eli convince the whole town of his innocence and the reason why he was gone?
Let me share a couple more things.
Cecily got on my nerves! With a husband and still trying to flirt with Eli and her husband just allowing it to happen. What in the world is her husband thinking sitting back and watching all of that happen? No one made a big deal of her wanting to get a kiss from Eli.
The ultimate betrayal by Jane’s brother made me scream at the book! I can’t believe everything Jane has done for him. He could do that to her.
I was also happy about her uncle’s relationship at the end. I was hoping and waiting for something to happen because it was so obvious. Maybe he will get his own separate story. I would for sure read it!
I will be on the lookout for more books by this author and thank you for showing me that I can fall in love with historical romance.
“You are good enough, Jane. You’re the very best. There’s no one else I want.”
Thank you, Faye Delacour, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
📖: The Lady He Lost
🖋️: Faye Delacour
🗓️: 4/02/24
⭐️: 5 of 5
💬: “I see you’re determined to make me kiss everyone then.”
Tropes, Topics & Themes:
✨Second chances
✨Historical Romance
✨Arranged engagement
✨Dual POV
✨Hilarious moments
I’m not a historical romance fan but Faye easily turned me into one! I devoured this book in a couple of hours and loved it so much!🔥🔥 Can’t wait to check out more books by her!
Not just any day of the week, but on a Sunday, Lieutenant Eleazar Williams, was resurrected.
With the family having church plans for the day, they didn’t attend after their son knocked on the door.
“Terribly sorry to have frightened you.”
The family is shocked that their lost son is back. The family must work together to alert everyone that it’s true and that he is who he says he is.
Eli’s return throws Jane completely off and her feelings come flooding back. From the heartbreak of him being engaged to her cousin, with her never telling him about her feelings, and now he wants things to go back to how they used to be.
Jane’s uncle is obsessed with trying to marry her off but Jane isn’t a simple woman that wants to follow the same steps as the rest of the women. She wants to grow her independence with her gambling club.
“I think I’m going to kiss you.”
Can Jane allow Eli back into her heart? Will Eli convince the whole town of his innocence and the reason why he was gone?
Let me share a couple more things.
Cecily got on my nerves! With a husband and still trying to flirt with Eli and her husband just allowing it to happen. What in the world is her husband thinking sitting back and watching all of that happen? No one made a big deal of her wanting to get a kiss from Eli.
The ultimate betrayal by Jane’s brother made me scream at the book! I can’t believe everything Jane has done for him. He could do that to her.
I was also happy about her uncle’s relationship at the end. I was hoping and waiting for something to happen because it was so obvious. Maybe he will get his own separate story. I would for sure read it!
I will be on the lookout for more books by this author and thank you for showing me that I can fall in love with historical romance.
“You are good enough, Jane. You’re the very best. There’s no one else I want.”
Thank you, Faye Delacour, Sourcebooks Casablanca, and Netgalley for this EARC! As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts. This review will be shared on my Instagram @Alexandriavwilliams_ shortly.
July 30, 2024
Such a great set-up for angst porn, but it never really gets there in a satisfying way. Needed more pining, reasoning, regret, despair, and groveling.
I don’t mind the way things turned out with her scheming little cousin, but that turnaround needed more work to make me believe it. Still, it provided more explanation and avenue for understanding than the H’s choices did. He just seemed to stumble into one thing after the other, which was frustrating.
I did like him well enough overall and them together, though. Just needed more of their backstory/connection and general feeling, as I didn’t feel enough of his remorse for what he put her through.
I don’t mind the way things turned out with her scheming little cousin, but that turnaround needed more work to make me believe it. Still, it provided more explanation and avenue for understanding than the H’s choices did. He just seemed to stumble into one thing after the other, which was frustrating.
I did like him well enough overall and them together, though. Just needed more of their backstory/connection and general feeling, as I didn’t feel enough of his remorse for what he put her through.
January 10, 2024
wait this was sooooooo darling and fun!! it's kind of everything i wanted in a period romance, the tension and longing, the social conventions, the drama. very much for bridgerton fans i would say, the main relationship feels like it takes different pacing cues from simon/daphne and kate/anthony. so happy that i enjoyed this!!! my cold dead heart really needed it
April 17, 2024
Two years ago, Lieutenant Eli Williams was reported dead after a shipwreck. His family and friends mourned him, his brother spent his savings, and his fiancée married someone else. So, he becomes the talk of the ton when he suddenly arrives back in town. After everything he's gone through, Eli wants to get on with this life and reconnect with Jane Bishop, the only person he's cared for. Jane once harbored feelings for Eli, but when he chose her cousin over her, she decided to put him out of her mind. Instead, focusing her attention on gaining financial independence by starting a ladies' gambling club. But with Eli back from the dead and doing all he can to help Jane's endeavors, it's getting harder and harder for her to ignore him or the feelings she stamped down. It's clear that Eli has been keeping secrets about his whereabouts for the past few years, so Jane will have to decide if she's willing to gamble with her heart once more.
I was first drawn in by the cover, but the synopsis kept me. A friends-to-sort-of-enemies-to-lovers-second-chance romance? Sign me up. Delacour's writing style was so easy to fly through that I read this in one sitting. I enjoyed our main character, Jane. One of my favorite things in historical romances is when our heroine is determined to make her way in life through unconventional ways. I liked watching her push societal norms and go against her traditional, meddling family. The romance between her and Eli was sweet. I understood why she guarded her heart from him, so watching her lower her defenses was gratifying. I wasn't super invested in the plot, but I enjoyed it and would continue with the series.
I was first drawn in by the cover, but the synopsis kept me. A friends-to-sort-of-enemies-to-lovers-second-chance romance? Sign me up. Delacour's writing style was so easy to fly through that I read this in one sitting. I enjoyed our main character, Jane. One of my favorite things in historical romances is when our heroine is determined to make her way in life through unconventional ways. I liked watching her push societal norms and go against her traditional, meddling family. The romance between her and Eli was sweet. I understood why she guarded her heart from him, so watching her lower her defenses was gratifying. I wasn't super invested in the plot, but I enjoyed it and would continue with the series.
September 28, 2024
I liked this but I think after seeing some friends rave about it, I ultimately wanted a little bit more especially because the premise was so fun. Also . I would read more by this author though!!
November 2, 2024
Excellent debut historical!
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