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Of Fossils and Follies: Victorians at the Beach
Will an unexpected summer yield more than one discovery?
Ever since she was a young girl studying geology with her father, Opal Martin has longed for the chance to visit Lyme Regis and dig for discoveries of her own. When a high-stakes contest partners her with the stiff and grumpy Mr. Harris, Opal hardly expects to find love along her quest for fossils.
Nigel Harris has had to work his way up from humble origins to become an assistant to the famous geologist, Gideon Buckston. The last thing he needs is a pampered lady tagging along on his summer explorations. But when his chance to join a prestigious expedition is on the line, he finds the ever-enthusiastic Miss Martin to be just the partner he needs.
Of Fossils and Follies is a standalone novella in the sweet, closed-door romance series Victorians at the Beach, where seaside summers meet Victorian romance.
Ever since she was a young girl studying geology with her father, Opal Martin has longed for the chance to visit Lyme Regis and dig for discoveries of her own. When a high-stakes contest partners her with the stiff and grumpy Mr. Harris, Opal hardly expects to find love along her quest for fossils.
Nigel Harris has had to work his way up from humble origins to become an assistant to the famous geologist, Gideon Buckston. The last thing he needs is a pampered lady tagging along on his summer explorations. But when his chance to join a prestigious expedition is on the line, he finds the ever-enthusiastic Miss Martin to be just the partner he needs.
Of Fossils and Follies is a standalone novella in the sweet, closed-door romance series Victorians at the Beach, where seaside summers meet Victorian romance.
114 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 9, 2025
3 people are currently reading
31 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 7, 2025
This was a very cute novella. This was my first read from this author and I really enjoyed it. I loved that paleontology was involved as I always find that interesting. Opal and Nigel start off on the wrong foot mostly with Nigel’s attitude towards Opal. Opal has a big love of Geology and is so excited to study along the men in her group. Nigel is a bit of a grump and Opal is full sunshine. I loved the competition where they have to work together to win. I really liked the end treasure hunt. And of course I loved their relationship so sweet! Overall a great story, and I recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 17, 2025
Finding a Seaside Romance
I really dug this book. 😆
Set in 1850s England, this engaging novella presents a collection of standalone stories that can be enjoyed in any order. With its brisk length, it’s perfect for a quick yet immersive read.
Our spirited heroine, Opal, guided by her father, a passionate geologist, unexpectedly bonds with Nigel, a fellow enthusiast eager to uncover the earth’s treasures. They enter a competition requiring them to submit a valuable specimen to Lord Chatsterbury, which brings them closer as they navigate daily digs and share the significance of their findings.
Amid their scientific endeavors, the charm of the era shines through in assembly rooms and country dances, showcasing the elegance of the time. This delightful tale not only entertains but also offers a wonderful glimpse into a remarkable period.
I really dug this book. 😆
Set in 1850s England, this engaging novella presents a collection of standalone stories that can be enjoyed in any order. With its brisk length, it’s perfect for a quick yet immersive read.
Our spirited heroine, Opal, guided by her father, a passionate geologist, unexpectedly bonds with Nigel, a fellow enthusiast eager to uncover the earth’s treasures. They enter a competition requiring them to submit a valuable specimen to Lord Chatsterbury, which brings them closer as they navigate daily digs and share the significance of their findings.
Amid their scientific endeavors, the charm of the era shines through in assembly rooms and country dances, showcasing the elegance of the time. This delightful tale not only entertains but also offers a wonderful glimpse into a remarkable period.
July 4, 2025
I loved this novella!! The way the characters thought and processed information was great!! I loved how similar they were to each other!
August 13, 2025
I love historical fiction and maybe it was the fossil topic but it felt dry to me. It needed more life to it. I don’t know if that makes sense.
August 6, 2025
I can't tell you how amazing Sienna Peake's novellas are! Every single time, they make me want to cozy up in my favorite chair to read them.
Oh, there are too many wonderful things about this book to write about them all, but I shall try!
For one, I think it's funny that when I first saw the title for this book, it took me back to a book I read as a child about Mary Anning, the girl who discovered the Ichthyosaurus. To find out that she was in this book was amazing! I love it when real- life characters make it into stories!
As to the fictional characters, this author's characters always feel so real, like if they were really alive, you'd be good friends.
The sock incident almost had me rolling on the floor with laughter. That had to be the best opener for a story and meeting between love interests. And Mrs. Potter's crab impression (I just about died 🤣...❤️)
The grumpy/sunshine trope was done so beautifully. Opal and Nigel are so sweet!
But... the book totally captured me when they had pasties, my absolute favorite comfort food!!! Opal became a girl after my own heart when she savored the flakiness of the crust 😅.
Also, the ending 😶- perfectly timed to get your heart racing!
The lessons learned from this book are so applicable, too. Teamwork and respecting each other are so much more important than treasure. The real treasures are the lives of those around you.
CW (only for younger readers): Akward falling on someone, dwelling on touches (very minimal though)
I do want to say, though, I appreciate the author preserving deceny in the area of some of the practices of that era. It's rare to find any good clean books with an author who cares about readers more than shock value.
Rating/Age Recommendation
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/ 18+
Concluding Thoughts:
I want to read this book over and over! It is the most perfect summer read.
I received a complimentary ARC, but all opinions expressed are my own.
Oh, there are too many wonderful things about this book to write about them all, but I shall try!
For one, I think it's funny that when I first saw the title for this book, it took me back to a book I read as a child about Mary Anning, the girl who discovered the Ichthyosaurus. To find out that she was in this book was amazing! I love it when real- life characters make it into stories!
As to the fictional characters, this author's characters always feel so real, like if they were really alive, you'd be good friends.
The sock incident almost had me rolling on the floor with laughter. That had to be the best opener for a story and meeting between love interests. And Mrs. Potter's crab impression (I just about died 🤣...❤️)
The grumpy/sunshine trope was done so beautifully. Opal and Nigel are so sweet!
But... the book totally captured me when they had pasties, my absolute favorite comfort food!!! Opal became a girl after my own heart when she savored the flakiness of the crust 😅.
Also, the ending 😶- perfectly timed to get your heart racing!
The lessons learned from this book are so applicable, too. Teamwork and respecting each other are so much more important than treasure. The real treasures are the lives of those around you.
CW (only for younger readers): Akward falling on someone, dwelling on touches (very minimal though)
I do want to say, though, I appreciate the author preserving deceny in the area of some of the practices of that era. It's rare to find any good clean books with an author who cares about readers more than shock value.
Rating/Age Recommendation
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟/ 18+
Concluding Thoughts:
I want to read this book over and over! It is the most perfect summer read.
I received a complimentary ARC, but all opinions expressed are my own.
July 6, 2025
Gentle Victorian romance on a paleontological dig.
For lovers of history and paleontology, this book with its nod to the wonderful cliffs of England will be doubly interesting. But even if you don’t consider yourself one, the sweet and clean romance will undoubtedly draw you in. While Opal and Nigel learn to extend grace to each other on the digs and see value in different personalities during a competition to earn a passage to South America , they also learn to love. And as they make new discoveries, they are reminded on the beautiful works of the Creator.
The story is cute, the plot is well-developed, and the prose is comfortable and easy to read. And as one comes to expect from the works of Mrs. Peake, the romance is sweet and gentle.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own.
For lovers of history and paleontology, this book with its nod to the wonderful cliffs of England will be doubly interesting. But even if you don’t consider yourself one, the sweet and clean romance will undoubtedly draw you in. While Opal and Nigel learn to extend grace to each other on the digs and see value in different personalities during a competition to earn a passage to South America , they also learn to love. And as they make new discoveries, they are reminded on the beautiful works of the Creator.
The story is cute, the plot is well-developed, and the prose is comfortable and easy to read. And as one comes to expect from the works of Mrs. Peake, the romance is sweet and gentle.
I had a privilege to read an advanced copy and absolutely loved it! All opinions expressed are my own.
August 13, 2025
of FOSSILS and FOLLIES
by: Sienna Peake
@siennapeakewrites
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~The last thing he needs is a pampered lady tagging along on his summer explorations. But when his chance to join a prestigious expedition is on the line, he finds the ever-enthusiastic Miss Martin to be just the partner he needs...
of FOSSILS and FOLLIES, is a quick but delightfully story brimming with charm, that is set in England in the 1850’s. Filled so wonderfully with adventure, dinosaurs, historic details, swoony moments, and a lovely romance. Watching dear characters mutual love of learning, helps set the course for greater possibility of discovering new finds together. The quest when united in both mind and heart, leads to such sweet destinations and true friendship. This dear story is worth reading!🙌🏻📚🩷
“It was like waves breaking on a shore, like sunlight shining on grey cliffs, it was light, it was love, it was everything. Opal had found her place, her person, and she had no intention of ever letting go.”
•Content: no language, no violence, kisses only.
“You are truly a wonder.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“When we behold God’s works, we come in touch with his majesty.”
#offossilsandfollies
“I care about you. I care that you are safe and well and here.”
#siennapeakwrites
“There was a peace to be found out of doors that could be found nowhere else. And there was always so much to explore.”
#allaboutthebestreads
by: Sienna Peake
@siennapeakewrites
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~The last thing he needs is a pampered lady tagging along on his summer explorations. But when his chance to join a prestigious expedition is on the line, he finds the ever-enthusiastic Miss Martin to be just the partner he needs...
of FOSSILS and FOLLIES, is a quick but delightfully story brimming with charm, that is set in England in the 1850’s. Filled so wonderfully with adventure, dinosaurs, historic details, swoony moments, and a lovely romance. Watching dear characters mutual love of learning, helps set the course for greater possibility of discovering new finds together. The quest when united in both mind and heart, leads to such sweet destinations and true friendship. This dear story is worth reading!🙌🏻📚🩷
“It was like waves breaking on a shore, like sunlight shining on grey cliffs, it was light, it was love, it was everything. Opal had found her place, her person, and she had no intention of ever letting go.”
•Content: no language, no violence, kisses only.
“You are truly a wonder.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“When we behold God’s works, we come in touch with his majesty.”
#offossilsandfollies
“I care about you. I care that you are safe and well and here.”
#siennapeakwrites
“There was a peace to be found out of doors that could be found nowhere else. And there was always so much to explore.”
#allaboutthebestreads
July 17, 2025
Of Fossils and Follies
Victorians on the Beach #2
By Sienna Peake
Opal Martin is excited for the opportunity to explore the Lyme Regis region under Gideon Buckston, a geologist who is friends with her father. Opal's presence annoys Mr. Buckston's assistant, Nigel Harris, who assumes she's a spoiled rich girl out for a lark.
But Opal is more than a pretty face, she lives for discoveries and her mind flourishes amidst the Lyme coast. What she never expected was to discover an attraction. No, Opal's scientific interests have kept interest in her to nothing of significance. She spends more time on the outer edges of polite society than deep in its fold.
As Opal works alongside him and his team, Nigel is more than a little surprise that her interest is genuine and not a passing fancy. What's more she seems to understand him, which is unusual in his experience. Nigel's geological pursuits take precedence in his life and he's never considered romance, but there is something about Miss Martin that sparks an interest.
I love how this story was woven together. This was a sweet beach read that gave a lovely nod to history and geology. Opal and Nigel were just so perfect for one another with their shared interests and lack of interest in societal expectations. This was a perfect afternoon read (well, two afternoons) that left me with a feeling of satisfaction.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Victorians on the Beach #2
By Sienna Peake
Opal Martin is excited for the opportunity to explore the Lyme Regis region under Gideon Buckston, a geologist who is friends with her father. Opal's presence annoys Mr. Buckston's assistant, Nigel Harris, who assumes she's a spoiled rich girl out for a lark.
But Opal is more than a pretty face, she lives for discoveries and her mind flourishes amidst the Lyme coast. What she never expected was to discover an attraction. No, Opal's scientific interests have kept interest in her to nothing of significance. She spends more time on the outer edges of polite society than deep in its fold.
As Opal works alongside him and his team, Nigel is more than a little surprise that her interest is genuine and not a passing fancy. What's more she seems to understand him, which is unusual in his experience. Nigel's geological pursuits take precedence in his life and he's never considered romance, but there is something about Miss Martin that sparks an interest.
I love how this story was woven together. This was a sweet beach read that gave a lovely nod to history and geology. Opal and Nigel were just so perfect for one another with their shared interests and lack of interest in societal expectations. This was a perfect afternoon read (well, two afternoons) that left me with a feeling of satisfaction.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations. All thoughts expressed are my own.
July 9, 2025
Opal Martin and Nigel Harris join together their expertise and love for fossils to compete for a chance to win a place on Lord Chatsterbury’s paleontological expedition to Patagonia. At first, Nigel is resentful and forms a wrong impression of Opal, but the longer they work together, the more he is impressed with her knowledge of fossilized creatures.
The commonality of learning that Opal and Nigel shared made them a terrific pair. They each liked geology, but also the possibility of discovering new things. I could easily relate to that myself. for this being a novella, Ms. Peake’s story and descriptions were well developed and I enjoyed this story immensely.
Things to enjoy:
woolen sea serpents
dual POV
sunshine vs. grumpy
sea bathing
fossil digging
bluestocking
Roman ruins
treasure hunt
author's notes
A favorite quote: “When we behold God’s works, we come in touch with his majesty.”
If you like adventure, dinosaurs, history, and a lovely romance, you will certainly want to read this novella that is part of the Victorian at the Beach series. This is a story for readers of all ages will enjoy. I received this complimentary. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The commonality of learning that Opal and Nigel shared made them a terrific pair. They each liked geology, but also the possibility of discovering new things. I could easily relate to that myself. for this being a novella, Ms. Peake’s story and descriptions were well developed and I enjoyed this story immensely.
Things to enjoy:
woolen sea serpents
dual POV
sunshine vs. grumpy
sea bathing
fossil digging
bluestocking
Roman ruins
treasure hunt
author's notes
A favorite quote: “When we behold God’s works, we come in touch with his majesty.”
If you like adventure, dinosaurs, history, and a lovely romance, you will certainly want to read this novella that is part of the Victorian at the Beach series. This is a story for readers of all ages will enjoy. I received this complimentary. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 10, 2025
Another wonderful story from Sienna! I've read a handful of her books already this past year and they always feature incredibly sweet FMCs that are about as down to earth as you can be, but always polite to perfection. Her MMCs are driven and focused and this book fit right into my expectations. While being familiar with Sienna's writing, I'm also reading all the books in this 'Victorians at the Beach' series.
Each book in this series features a unique cast that is experiencing "feminine freedoms" while being set near water and beaches. This one includes the meeting of Opal and Nigel - both are committed geologists and fossil hunters. Opal is visiting the site with her father and joins the team alongside Nigel and others.
Both Opal and Nigel are shy individuals that adore the work they do with rocks and fossils; finding companionship and comfort with their uniquely shared interests. I really enjoyed this novella that was filled with young love, splashing tides, and quite the adventure!
Each book in this series features a unique cast that is experiencing "feminine freedoms" while being set near water and beaches. This one includes the meeting of Opal and Nigel - both are committed geologists and fossil hunters. Opal is visiting the site with her father and joins the team alongside Nigel and others.
Both Opal and Nigel are shy individuals that adore the work they do with rocks and fossils; finding companionship and comfort with their uniquely shared interests. I really enjoyed this novella that was filled with young love, splashing tides, and quite the adventure!
June 27, 2025
I love clean historical romances. Especially those in which the hero and heroine form a true friendship first.
I loved how Nigel didn't dismiss Opal for pursuing a passion not typical of ladies in the Victorian era. He supported and respected her. In turn, she brought out a playful side to balance out his more serious nature.
I enjoyed the twist to the final task of the competition and how the couple discovered the true treasure in each other.
In the final chapter, I was concerned that a matter regarding Opal's relationship with her parents would not be answered. However, it was nicely addressed in the epilogue which left a smile on my face.
I received an ARC and share my honest review of this delightful story which has been added to my Keeper shelf.
I loved how Nigel didn't dismiss Opal for pursuing a passion not typical of ladies in the Victorian era. He supported and respected her. In turn, she brought out a playful side to balance out his more serious nature.
I enjoyed the twist to the final task of the competition and how the couple discovered the true treasure in each other.
In the final chapter, I was concerned that a matter regarding Opal's relationship with her parents would not be answered. However, it was nicely addressed in the epilogue which left a smile on my face.
I received an ARC and share my honest review of this delightful story which has been added to my Keeper shelf.
July 8, 2025
I want to start by saying I received an ARC of this book. This is a clean Victorian romance book and part of the series Victorians at the Beach. The main characters are Nigel and Opal. Opal and her father are visiting Lyme Regis. While there Opal gets a chance to dig for fossils or anything else they can find alongside Nigel. When they get a chance at winning a competition to travel to another land to explore and dig will they be able to work together? Both love geology and were very passionate about it. They were so great together. I loved watching their relationship blossom. I love how much they had in common and got along great. The side characters were awesome. The epilogue was amazing. Overall, I loved this book.
July 22, 2025
I loved this cute story about two people who love science and geology. This is definitely a little bit different with all of the dinosaur talk and While Nigel misjudges the Opal, they go about working side by side each day digging up fossils. The seaside setting was beautiful and I enjoyed the sea bathing and how we got to learn a little about how that worked!
Nigel was a bit of grumpy while Opal was just full of sunshine! I enjoyed watching their relationship blossom and grow. The competition was fun and I loved how everything turned out in the end. This is definitely a fun filled sweet romance Victorian novella!
I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Nigel was a bit of grumpy while Opal was just full of sunshine! I enjoyed watching their relationship blossom and grow. The competition was fun and I loved how everything turned out in the end. This is definitely a fun filled sweet romance Victorian novella!
I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 23, 2025
I am going to get my only issue with the book out of the way and then talk about all the great things I love about this book (which is a lot). The only issue with this book is that the female main character needed to be flushed out more. The male main character gets so much detail and characterization, but Opal needed more. Now like I promised, all the amazing parts of this book. The setting is perfect for a Victorian beach story with the English beaches having such great description. While I would have loved more detail on it, I enjoyed that Opal loved geology especially considering that this book is set in a time when women were discouraged to pursue the sciences. The book used the grumpy X sunshine trope and I am here for it. This is definitely a good book to read for the summer
June 27, 2025
This is a delightfully charming little novella. As one of those kids who loved dinosaurs, it was so great to see the fossil hunting craze of the era depicted with such accuracy (although I do question a well bred lady of 1850, even one like Opal, taking her shoes off on the beach to wade in the water, being seen doing it and it not causing a scandal or embarassment). The sweet romance between the characters has a grumpy vs sunshine vibe and the interactions between Opal and Nigel are simply fun to read. It's a delightful, quick read that does a wonderful job of bringing the coast of 1850 to life.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave an honest review.
I received an ARC and voluntarily leave an honest review.
July 3, 2025
Opal comes to Lyme Regis with her father for her father’s health. While she is there, her father has arranged for her to help Mr. Buckston’s geology and paleontology crew. While on the crew, Opal meets Nigel Harris and gets to know him. Opal is bright and passionate about studying geology and paleontology and Nigel is also passionate about geology and paleontology and works hard in his field. At times Opal and Nigel are a little awkward socially, but I find that characteristic charming in them. I enjoyed learning more about Victorian times such as sea bathing and Miss Anning. Opal and Nigel’s story is endearing. Enjoy!
August 27, 2025
I think this is the most unique premise I have read in a Victorian romance and I loved it!
I grew up loving dinosaurs and hearing my dad talk about famous paleontologists so the setting for this book was really fantastic to me. I loved the historical detail and reading this has really made me want to learn more about science and paleontology at that time.
Opal and Nigel were adorable, and I loved the way they complement each other and how they wanted to see and admire who they really were, not just who they were expected to be by society.
This was my first book by this author but I definitely want to read more now!
I grew up loving dinosaurs and hearing my dad talk about famous paleontologists so the setting for this book was really fantastic to me. I loved the historical detail and reading this has really made me want to learn more about science and paleontology at that time.
Opal and Nigel were adorable, and I loved the way they complement each other and how they wanted to see and admire who they really were, not just who they were expected to be by society.
This was my first book by this author but I definitely want to read more now!
June 30, 2025
I loved this zero spice Victorian era romance! I was hooked right from the beginning, and I really enjoyed the historical romance theme and the characters. The plot follows the growing friendship and attraction of the two main characters, Miss Opal Martin and Mr. Nigel Harris, showing their joint love of fossils. The character growth and their budding relationship made for a very interesting and enjoyable read! I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a feel-good historical romance.
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 9, 2025
I love her writing! All the narration is so intentionally crafted to bring these characters to life. You learn so much context by the way they see the world/how they phrase things even, and you just cannot help but want to cheer them on. This series has been fun for the way it really explores specific interests/industries in a historically accurate way but—to reference my favorite quote from this book—with “puffs of whimsy.” LOVE. I’d say it feels equally driven by the paleontology plot and the romance!
*Lucky to be on the ARC list, but my reviews are always my honest thoughts!!*
*Lucky to be on the ARC list, but my reviews are always my honest thoughts!!*
July 9, 2025
This was a very sweet love story between two archaeologists! It was nice to see two people who have felt different from the rest of society accept who they are and find other people who also love them as they are!
The characters are sweet, strong, and intelligent and the completion was entertaining!
Content:
No language
Clean romance
Thank you to the author for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
The characters are sweet, strong, and intelligent and the completion was entertaining!
Content:
No language
Clean romance
Thank you to the author for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 11, 2025
This book is apart of a series Victorians at the Beach. There aren't as many details as I'd like about our main female character. At times it feels like the main female characters perspective was added as an afterthought. We know she has blue eyes, is a younger sister and has social anxiety. We know far more about our main male character who is fleshed out far more. When I think of English Beaches Mary Anning and limestone cliffs is exactly what comes to mind. If that's what you picture also, this book is the perfect fun, fluffy, scientific romp at the seaside.
August 14, 2025
I loved the vibes in this novella! Opal was a unique female scientist who longed for more than high society without thinking that she is better than anyone else. The summery beach vibes, as well as the historical details of the bathing machines and chaperones, created an atmospheric setting.
My only issue with the book is that I would have loved a little more detail about the character's backstories, but since this is a novella, I understand that there's simply less page time for it.
If you're looking for a quick, closed-door historical romance, consider checking this out!
My only issue with the book is that I would have loved a little more detail about the character's backstories, but since this is a novella, I understand that there's simply less page time for it.
If you're looking for a quick, closed-door historical romance, consider checking this out!
June 30, 2025
I truly enjoyed this clean historical romance. It was full of fossils, friendship, and family. One of my favorite quotes from this book was “When we behold God’s works, we come in touch with his majesty”. The grumpy vs sunshine vibe between Opan and Nigel was top notch. Definitely read Of Fossils and Follies if you are looking for a lighter summer read!
I received an ARC and all thoughts/opinions of my own!
I received an ARC and all thoughts/opinions of my own!
July 10, 2025
OF FOSSILS AND FOLLIES is a sweet Victorian romance.
I love this type of book for a summer beach read vibe. This one also takes place on a beach, and we get to explore the world of fossils.
The ongoing misunderstanding of their approach to fossils and the natural world is charming. I loved how the characters interact and come to know one another. And there is growth in the mindset too.
Kisses only romance books are my jam, so this was perfect.
If you love historical romance, this novella is for you!
Happy reading!
I love this type of book for a summer beach read vibe. This one also takes place on a beach, and we get to explore the world of fossils.
The ongoing misunderstanding of their approach to fossils and the natural world is charming. I loved how the characters interact and come to know one another. And there is growth in the mindset too.
Kisses only romance books are my jam, so this was perfect.
If you love historical romance, this novella is for you!
Happy reading!
July 28, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I liked how Opal had to prove herself in the fossil discovery world. I loved how the author helped us to learn about history through this story. I also liked how Opal and Nigel fell in love through their love of fossils and how they made a great team. This was a sweet story with great characters.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
July 14, 2025
Another fabulous Victorians at the Beach novella! I was actually out on a lake the day that I read this one. It was the perfect setting for me to feel as if I was right there with Opal Martin and Nigel Harris searching for fossils in Lyme Regis! I kept looking around at the mountains around me and the shore and thinking of these characters in their adventures.
This was a fun grumpy/sunshine trope. I loved learning more about early fossil hunting in England along the coasts. The adventure that these two and their fellow fossil hunters experience made for a delightful storyline. I kept cheering (in my mind) for them and loved seeing the outcome of everything. I know, I'm being vague but I don't want to spoil anything.
Head to the beach, a river, lake, some sort of body of water and read this novella. Maybe you'll feel like you're right there with Opal and Nigel, just as I did! And get ready for a sweet love story that will have you smiling and laughing out loud!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
This was a fun grumpy/sunshine trope. I loved learning more about early fossil hunting in England along the coasts. The adventure that these two and their fellow fossil hunters experience made for a delightful storyline. I kept cheering (in my mind) for them and loved seeing the outcome of everything. I know, I'm being vague but I don't want to spoil anything.
Head to the beach, a river, lake, some sort of body of water and read this novella. Maybe you'll feel like you're right there with Opal and Nigel, just as I did! And get ready for a sweet love story that will have you smiling and laughing out loud!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
July 8, 2025
Such a sweet summer read!! Lots of little fun facts about early geology/paleontology wrapped up in a package of adorable characters as they fall in love. The main character is so quirky and adorable, as is the love interest! The scientific roots of this story stuck with me long after reading and sparked an increased joy in the fascinating things of life :) a beautiful tale!
July 9, 2025
This was the perfect summer novella. Set at Lyme on the cliffs at the edge of the ocean, it was full of fossils and science. It was the perfect blend of sweet romance and gentle science. It wouldn’t scare off any non fossil lovers.
The characters had their quirks and became loveable. It was so fun to cheer Opal and Nigel on and watch their story unfold.
The characters had their quirks and became loveable. It was so fun to cheer Opal and Nigel on and watch their story unfold.
July 12, 2025
This was a sweet read! I love that I learned more about pieces of history I was previously unaware of. This book was a great introduction for a tribute to women and their historical contributions in science. I wanted to know even more about the characters and the epilogue made me feel excited for their future adventures! It’s a cute little novella that is worth the time to read.
July 22, 2025
Opal Martin is an unusual young lady in Victorian England with a passion for paleontology. On a visit to Lyme Regis for a fossil hunt, she meets Nigel Harris, who expects the worst of her. A cute novella, which has some basis in fact. The late Mary Anning, who is now celebrated as a pioneer of paleontology, lived and did all her fossil hunting in Lyme Regis.
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