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The Regency Switch
Not yet published
Expected 3 Mar 26The Holiday meets Lost in Austen, with a sprinkling of Bridgerton steam… A gloriously witty, escapist and heartwarming romantic comedy about love, finding your people and living life to the full
***
Etta Moore expects nothing more from a Tuesday than another dull day in the office. But when her morning commute ends in Regency England, she is forced to accept the she and her ancestor Miss Henrietta Bainbridge – or ‘Mad Hetty’, as she’s known amongst the ton – have switched bodies.
Suddenly Etta and Hetty must get to grips with the new worlds they find themselves in. For Etta, it’s goodbye to dating apps and the daily commute and hello to the list of things ‘Ladies Do Not’ do. Luckily the dashing Lord Stanhope is on hand to aid her through even the most shocking of faux pas.
Meanwhile Hetty, who has always felt unseen and unknown, finds her truest self blossoming with the help of 21st century medicine and the most welcome attentions of her rather beautiful Adult Learning teacher, Stella.
Two hundred years away from everything they’ve ever known, might Etta and Hetty have actually found a place where they each truly belong?
***
Etta Moore expects nothing more from a Tuesday than another dull day in the office. But when her morning commute ends in Regency England, she is forced to accept the she and her ancestor Miss Henrietta Bainbridge – or ‘Mad Hetty’, as she’s known amongst the ton – have switched bodies.
Suddenly Etta and Hetty must get to grips with the new worlds they find themselves in. For Etta, it’s goodbye to dating apps and the daily commute and hello to the list of things ‘Ladies Do Not’ do. Luckily the dashing Lord Stanhope is on hand to aid her through even the most shocking of faux pas.
Meanwhile Hetty, who has always felt unseen and unknown, finds her truest self blossoming with the help of 21st century medicine and the most welcome attentions of her rather beautiful Adult Learning teacher, Stella.
Two hundred years away from everything they’ve ever known, might Etta and Hetty have actually found a place where they each truly belong?
320 pages, Paperback
Expected publication March 3, 2026
3 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
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February 24, 2026DNFing. Not a terrible book by any means but I am struggling to get into it and finding it a bit too non-serious and pop culture heavy for my preference.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What happens when the mind of a woman from 1817 goes into the body of a woman from 2023? Because a woman from 2023 still thinks the same as she did in her own time, and the same with the woman from the regency era.
Etta doesn’t really mind being in 1817, because she loved reading Jane Austin, Georget Hyer, and watching Brigerton, so that’s all she needs to know, right? And if things go poorly, she can always go back. Hetty, the woman who initiated the switch as told her so, so she pretends she is on vacation in the Regency era, and to go with the flow. Of course, some things she doesn’t like, such as the lack of rights, but she is in an upper-class family, with a maid, and friends with nobles, so life isnt’ all that bad.
Hetty, on the other hand, finds that modern medicine makes her depression that was driving her crazy in her own ear, go away. She also finds other things that were forbidden are open to her, such as education, and “the love that dares not speak its name” which is now common and legal.
Both of the main characters are quite lovable, and real. Their banter is natural, and I wanted more. Sorry to have the book end. And what a wild ride it was.
All the stars for this one. I would have devoured in one gulp, but I had to work and sleep. This is the author’s debut novel, and I look forward to many more from her.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper 360 for making this book available for an honest review. This book will be published on the 3rd of March 2026.
Etta doesn’t really mind being in 1817, because she loved reading Jane Austin, Georget Hyer, and watching Brigerton, so that’s all she needs to know, right? And if things go poorly, she can always go back. Hetty, the woman who initiated the switch as told her so, so she pretends she is on vacation in the Regency era, and to go with the flow. Of course, some things she doesn’t like, such as the lack of rights, but she is in an upper-class family, with a maid, and friends with nobles, so life isnt’ all that bad.
Hetty, on the other hand, finds that modern medicine makes her depression that was driving her crazy in her own ear, go away. She also finds other things that were forbidden are open to her, such as education, and “the love that dares not speak its name” which is now common and legal.
Both of the main characters are quite lovable, and real. Their banter is natural, and I wanted more. Sorry to have the book end. And what a wild ride it was.
All the stars for this one. I would have devoured in one gulp, but I had to work and sleep. This is the author’s debut novel, and I look forward to many more from her.
Thanks to Netgalley and Harper 360 for making this book available for an honest review. This book will be published on the 3rd of March 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Regency Switch is a quick and easy read that doesn't take itself too seriously! It's overall a bit too silly for my tastes, but I was entertained.
This story is told half in 1817 and half in 2023 from the perspectives of two women from each time who have switched bodies with each other. The narrative jumps between the two time periods, which worked well to keep the me reading on. I really tried to suspend disbelief, but I was taken out of the story multiple times by each bizarre turn that didn't make a lot of sense.
The present day woman living in the past was not my favorite. She was constantly mentioning that she was from the future to little or no reaction to those around her. She is supposed to be a big Regency media fan and makes many references to Regency media like Pride and Prejudice and Bridgerton, but she can't observe basic historical niceties. Her romance with an 1817 man was pretty lukewarm, and I was not at all invested in her story, though on paper it should have been very fun. The past girl living in the present was very sweet, and I was rooting for her to find her way. Her trials in the present were handled much better with much more reason. Her romance with a 2023 woman was also not terribly exciting, but I liked that she got to embrace her sexuality.
If you're looking for a breezy story of a modern Bridgerton-loving woman thrown into the past and a woman of Jane Austen's time in present day London, I think you'll be entertained.
Thank you, Harper 360, for the arc!
This story is told half in 1817 and half in 2023 from the perspectives of two women from each time who have switched bodies with each other. The narrative jumps between the two time periods, which worked well to keep the me reading on. I really tried to suspend disbelief, but I was taken out of the story multiple times by each bizarre turn that didn't make a lot of sense.
The present day woman living in the past was not my favorite. She was constantly mentioning that she was from the future to little or no reaction to those around her. She is supposed to be a big Regency media fan and makes many references to Regency media like Pride and Prejudice and Bridgerton, but she can't observe basic historical niceties. Her romance with an 1817 man was pretty lukewarm, and I was not at all invested in her story, though on paper it should have been very fun. The past girl living in the present was very sweet, and I was rooting for her to find her way. Her trials in the present were handled much better with much more reason. Her romance with a 2023 woman was also not terribly exciting, but I liked that she got to embrace her sexuality.
If you're looking for a breezy story of a modern Bridgerton-loving woman thrown into the past and a woman of Jane Austen's time in present day London, I think you'll be entertained.
Thank you, Harper 360, for the arc!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was an absolute delight to read. A body swap from 1817 to 2023? It's a fun concept and the pay off was a beautiful story that I could not put down.
Hattie travels into the future and truly finds herself and accesses the mental health care she truly needs. I do wish this was explored more but what was written on the page was great either way. Also the exploration of her sexuality, in a time where it is more accepted was heartwarming, seeing her find love.
Etta is able to find family in her life, a drastic contrast to her existence in modern day where she can slow down and traumatise people with songs from the future. She also finds herself as a main character in her own Regency love story, after watching so many on TV.
This story explores mental health and how this is treated in different eras now we have more understanding and treatmens. There's a sapphic love story that a main character feels safe to explore while still having moments of modern day homophobia, showing how times have changed but progress and acceptance is still needed.
Truly a page Turner that is as fun as it is heart warming. I only wish the story was longer!
Thank you to HQ Stories for this ARC
Hattie travels into the future and truly finds herself and accesses the mental health care she truly needs. I do wish this was explored more but what was written on the page was great either way. Also the exploration of her sexuality, in a time where it is more accepted was heartwarming, seeing her find love.
Etta is able to find family in her life, a drastic contrast to her existence in modern day where she can slow down and traumatise people with songs from the future. She also finds herself as a main character in her own Regency love story, after watching so many on TV.
This story explores mental health and how this is treated in different eras now we have more understanding and treatmens. There's a sapphic love story that a main character feels safe to explore while still having moments of modern day homophobia, showing how times have changed but progress and acceptance is still needed.
Truly a page Turner that is as fun as it is heart warming. I only wish the story was longer!
Thank you to HQ Stories for this ARC
February 14, 2026
3.75 stars!
thanks so much for HQ for sending me a copy of the regency switch by helen gaskell for review. this was a really lovely, heartwarming regency romance read but with a twist. i really liked almost the fantasy element of Etta and Hetty swapping bodies: one in the 21st century and the other in the 19th century. seeing them both in the different worlds/timelines was interesting. my only preference would be if we had more time in each plot/time to develop. i felt at times it could have been expanded a bit more, but overall really enjoyable historical romance!
thanks so much for HQ for sending me a copy of the regency switch by helen gaskell for review. this was a really lovely, heartwarming regency romance read but with a twist. i really liked almost the fantasy element of Etta and Hetty swapping bodies: one in the 21st century and the other in the 19th century. seeing them both in the different worlds/timelines was interesting. my only preference would be if we had more time in each plot/time to develop. i felt at times it could have been expanded a bit more, but overall really enjoyable historical romance!
October 21, 2025
I received an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
I absolutely devoured this book. A time travelling romance to the regency period was the initial attraction however, I loved the dual storyline with the two main characters points of view.
It made me smile quite regularly and actually laughed out loud at one point. (I very rarely laugh at books)
The plot moved along smartly. There was a bit of heat which was relevant to the storyline.
I thought the author made a smart choice with the two love interests for our main characters.
I have already recommended this to someone else.
I absolutely devoured this book. A time travelling romance to the regency period was the initial attraction however, I loved the dual storyline with the two main characters points of view.
It made me smile quite regularly and actually laughed out loud at one point. (I very rarely laugh at books)
The plot moved along smartly. There was a bit of heat which was relevant to the storyline.
I thought the author made a smart choice with the two love interests for our main characters.
I have already recommended this to someone else.
October 15, 2025
Historical, scifi romcom - what more do you need?
—
Are you kidding me? Regency romance, time travel, lesbian shenanigans, Reddit reactions on Instagram? Sign me up! I’m so there!
Seriously, Gaskell gives us a big city girl/country village milieu romance all twisted up and topsy-turveyed out through a science fantasy lens, like a glorious mix of Jenny Colgan (romance writer) and, er, Jenny Colgan (scifi author), with two—TWO!—protagonists I would gladly follow to the ends of the earth. Etta Moore is stuck, her life in London a round of sleep-commute-work-commute-sleep and repeat, the men she meets a series of no-hopers. When she’s accosted by a pair of lovely old ladies with the chance for a holiday from her life, she—well, she doesn’t quite grasp it with both hands, rather more being shanghaied into it, and the next thing she knows, she’s 200 hundred years in the past, in someone’s else’s body tied to a chair and meeting her brother in that time, and his friend, the most gorgeous man Etta has ever met in her life. Will sparks fly, or will Etta be found out and deemed mad?
In 1817, Henrietta Bainbridge is also stuck, her debilitating malaise driving away her family and friends, until she comes up with a (hand-wavey) method of time travel, and lo and behold, she ends up in Etta’s body in the present, aided by her two aunts/descendants. She’s not prepared for the modern world (while Etta has all her hard gleaned knowledge from Jane Austen and Bridgerton, neither of which mention chamber pots), nor for the beautiful woman teaching her computing basics. Will Hetty finally find her heart taken by someone, or will she crash and return back to her original present?
In a brilliant mix of romcom, sci-fi and comedy (extra com, if you like), Gaskell creates two characters and their worlds, their allies and enemies, and, this being a romance, a pair of endings that more than satisfy. A few loose endings (for the sequel?) but the romances and the comedy that help us get there are perfectly judged, and the characters are suitably novel. There’s one character where I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and it did, but boy was I surprised. I applaud thee, Helen Gaskell, romance author!
Four and a half stars
—
Are you kidding me? Regency romance, time travel, lesbian shenanigans, Reddit reactions on Instagram? Sign me up! I’m so there!
Seriously, Gaskell gives us a big city girl/country village milieu romance all twisted up and topsy-turveyed out through a science fantasy lens, like a glorious mix of Jenny Colgan (romance writer) and, er, Jenny Colgan (scifi author), with two—TWO!—protagonists I would gladly follow to the ends of the earth. Etta Moore is stuck, her life in London a round of sleep-commute-work-commute-sleep and repeat, the men she meets a series of no-hopers. When she’s accosted by a pair of lovely old ladies with the chance for a holiday from her life, she—well, she doesn’t quite grasp it with both hands, rather more being shanghaied into it, and the next thing she knows, she’s 200 hundred years in the past, in someone’s else’s body tied to a chair and meeting her brother in that time, and his friend, the most gorgeous man Etta has ever met in her life. Will sparks fly, or will Etta be found out and deemed mad?
In 1817, Henrietta Bainbridge is also stuck, her debilitating malaise driving away her family and friends, until she comes up with a (hand-wavey) method of time travel, and lo and behold, she ends up in Etta’s body in the present, aided by her two aunts/descendants. She’s not prepared for the modern world (while Etta has all her hard gleaned knowledge from Jane Austen and Bridgerton, neither of which mention chamber pots), nor for the beautiful woman teaching her computing basics. Will Hetty finally find her heart taken by someone, or will she crash and return back to her original present?
In a brilliant mix of romcom, sci-fi and comedy (extra com, if you like), Gaskell creates two characters and their worlds, their allies and enemies, and, this being a romance, a pair of endings that more than satisfy. A few loose endings (for the sequel?) but the romances and the comedy that help us get there are perfectly judged, and the characters are suitably novel. There’s one character where I kept waiting for the other shoe to drop, and it did, but boy was I surprised. I applaud thee, Helen Gaskell, romance author!
Four and a half stars
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I really liked the premise of this book and so I was excited to read it, but unfortunately it just fell a bit flat for me.
I was tempted to DNF a few times but I thought I'd stick with it to see if maybe it got better but I made it to the end and didn't feel any differently.
The story is told from Hetty's POV in the year 1817 and Etta's POV in the year 2023, before they end up switching lives (the story doesn't explain exactly how the switch happens and just hints around the fact that Hetty was a genius and made it happen).
I think it's just a personal thing, but I didn't connect with any of the characters and I feel they lacked depth. One of the things that has stuck with me after finishing reading is that Etta seems to be unsure about her love interest, she seems to question her thoughts about him more than once but then suddenly seems to lose all her doubts. At one point, it seemed she was flirting with another man and that it might go a different path.
Another thing that surprised me would be too much of a spoiler to say in detail, but I was a little shocked at how careless Etta is with Hetty's body (only their minds have swapped), in case they swap back.
Etta's chapters were the most interesting to me personally, but I did love Hetty being able to find herself as she was so suffocated back in the past.
I appreciate what the author has put into this book and you can tell from the acknowledgements that it has been a work of love, but I think maybe some of the ideas could have been explained better or considered more.
Thank you to Netgalley, HQ, HQ Digital and the author for the review copy, provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
I was tempted to DNF a few times but I thought I'd stick with it to see if maybe it got better but I made it to the end and didn't feel any differently.
The story is told from Hetty's POV in the year 1817 and Etta's POV in the year 2023, before they end up switching lives (the story doesn't explain exactly how the switch happens and just hints around the fact that Hetty was a genius and made it happen).
I think it's just a personal thing, but I didn't connect with any of the characters and I feel they lacked depth. One of the things that has stuck with me after finishing reading is that Etta seems to be unsure about her love interest, she seems to question her thoughts about him more than once but then suddenly seems to lose all her doubts. At one point, it seemed she was flirting with another man and that it might go a different path.
Another thing that surprised me would be too much of a spoiler to say in detail, but I was a little shocked at how careless Etta is with Hetty's body (only their minds have swapped), in case they swap back.
Etta's chapters were the most interesting to me personally, but I did love Hetty being able to find herself as she was so suffocated back in the past.
I appreciate what the author has put into this book and you can tell from the acknowledgements that it has been a work of love, but I think maybe some of the ideas could have been explained better or considered more.
Thank you to Netgalley, HQ, HQ Digital and the author for the review copy, provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
February 24, 2026
Thank you to the publisher HQ for the early copy of The Regency Switch by Helen Gaskell via NetGalley.
The Regency Switch is a warm, funny and wonderfully easy read that completely charmed me. I was especially drawn to the dual timeline and dual POV structure. Moving between the modern day and the Regency era kept the story feeling fresh and dynamic, and I loved seeing how each character navigated a world so different from their own.
The concept itself is such a fun one: a modern-day FMC finding herself in the Regency period, while a Regency-era FMC experiences the modern world. It felt trendy in its execution, but there was also something timeless about the way the story was told, particularly in how it explored love, identity, and belonging across centuries.
I also really appreciated the exploration of the sapphic romance woven into the story. It felt heartfelt and meaningful and I loved seeing that representation centred within such a playful, romantic premise.
My only real critique is that I wanted more. Because the book is on the shorter side, I would happily have read another 100 pages developing the romances of both couples. Each relationship had such lovely foundations, and a little more time spent deepening the emotional arcs would have made them even more satisfying.
Overall, this was a charming, feel-good romantic read with a clever premise and plenty of heart. If you enjoy dual timelines, fish-out-of-water scenarios, and romance with a sapphic twist, this one is definitely worth picking up.
The Regency Switch is a warm, funny and wonderfully easy read that completely charmed me. I was especially drawn to the dual timeline and dual POV structure. Moving between the modern day and the Regency era kept the story feeling fresh and dynamic, and I loved seeing how each character navigated a world so different from their own.
The concept itself is such a fun one: a modern-day FMC finding herself in the Regency period, while a Regency-era FMC experiences the modern world. It felt trendy in its execution, but there was also something timeless about the way the story was told, particularly in how it explored love, identity, and belonging across centuries.
I also really appreciated the exploration of the sapphic romance woven into the story. It felt heartfelt and meaningful and I loved seeing that representation centred within such a playful, romantic premise.
My only real critique is that I wanted more. Because the book is on the shorter side, I would happily have read another 100 pages developing the romances of both couples. Each relationship had such lovely foundations, and a little more time spent deepening the emotional arcs would have made them even more satisfying.
Overall, this was a charming, feel-good romantic read with a clever premise and plenty of heart. If you enjoy dual timelines, fish-out-of-water scenarios, and romance with a sapphic twist, this one is definitely worth picking up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I had such a blast! It’s warm, it’s cozy, it’s fuzzy, and everything you could want from a regency/time travel romance!
It was very feel good and I loved seeing how both main characters were able to find their footing in their new respective timelines. I mean, I’d be a little freaked out (okay a lot freaked out) if I suddenly ended up in the 1800s and had no clue what to do. So props for Etta for figuring that out. I also loved how much Etta campaigned and stood up for herself! Especially for being in the 1800s and how much her newfound family accepted her and welcomed her into open arms. We can truly see how much she needed them.
Ugh and Hetty!! Sweet Hetty! What a darling human being. Literally too kind for the world. I love how we were able to explore ‘darker’ themes with her and she’s grasping with the fact that she’s depressed and figuring out her sexuality all while living in a new century. And her sweet aunts/descendants! I love how they were able to guide her into her new lifestyle and teach her about modern things while also pushing her to do things outside her comfort zone to make her happy. Their relationship was precious.
I feel like we could get a book two just so I can see what else happened with these two gals. I absolutely loved the ending, even if it was a tiny, little glimpse of their lives!
Thank you to HQ Digital publishing for the ARC.
It was very feel good and I loved seeing how both main characters were able to find their footing in their new respective timelines. I mean, I’d be a little freaked out (okay a lot freaked out) if I suddenly ended up in the 1800s and had no clue what to do. So props for Etta for figuring that out. I also loved how much Etta campaigned and stood up for herself! Especially for being in the 1800s and how much her newfound family accepted her and welcomed her into open arms. We can truly see how much she needed them.
Ugh and Hetty!! Sweet Hetty! What a darling human being. Literally too kind for the world. I love how we were able to explore ‘darker’ themes with her and she’s grasping with the fact that she’s depressed and figuring out her sexuality all while living in a new century. And her sweet aunts/descendants! I love how they were able to guide her into her new lifestyle and teach her about modern things while also pushing her to do things outside her comfort zone to make her happy. Their relationship was precious.
I feel like we could get a book two just so I can see what else happened with these two gals. I absolutely loved the ending, even if it was a tiny, little glimpse of their lives!
Thank you to HQ Digital publishing for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC. My honest review is below.
Publication date 26/02/2026
Overall 4 star rating.
The Regency Switch was a quick-paced, easy-to-devour read that I finished in no time. While I initially had some concerns about how rapidly the story moved in the opening chapters—and found myself a little confused at first—the narrative soon settled into its stride. Once past that initial rush, the book revealed itself as a light-hearted rom-com with a delightful Regency Britain twist, which I absolutely adored.
I found myself more drawn to Etty’s storyline than Hetty’s and was eager to spend more time following her journey, though I did enjoy both romances. It was particularly enjoyable seeing how Hetty experienced life in 2023 and reacted to the differences between the two eras, which added humour and charm to the story. The relationships in each era felt believable and well matched to their respective settings. If anything, I would have loved a little more scene-setting at the beginning to help ground the reader before the plot took off.
Overall, The Regency Switch was an enjoyable and charming read that successfully blended romance, humour, and historical flair.
Publication date 26/02/2026
Overall 4 star rating.
The Regency Switch was a quick-paced, easy-to-devour read that I finished in no time. While I initially had some concerns about how rapidly the story moved in the opening chapters—and found myself a little confused at first—the narrative soon settled into its stride. Once past that initial rush, the book revealed itself as a light-hearted rom-com with a delightful Regency Britain twist, which I absolutely adored.
I found myself more drawn to Etty’s storyline than Hetty’s and was eager to spend more time following her journey, though I did enjoy both romances. It was particularly enjoyable seeing how Hetty experienced life in 2023 and reacted to the differences between the two eras, which added humour and charm to the story. The relationships in each era felt believable and well matched to their respective settings. If anything, I would have loved a little more scene-setting at the beginning to help ground the reader before the plot took off.
Overall, The Regency Switch was an enjoyable and charming read that successfully blended romance, humour, and historical flair.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🕰️ The Regency Switch 🕰️
This is a time traveling, body swapping, modern girl in Regency England kind of story and somehow it works. We get both a sapphic romance and an MF romance here. Etta wakes up in Regency England and Hetty finds herself in modern times.
Etta was honestly terrible at adopting Regency era mannerisms and lowkey seemed to enjoy the shock factor. I cannot even blame her because it was hilarious. I loved watching her find a sense of belonging. She was so desperate for family and connection. I was surprised by how she softened her brother’s heart. And Lord Stanhope was absolutely not prepared for her 🤣
Hetty’s storyline hit me close to home. Her mental health struggles were heartbreaking, especially knowing how long she went without the help she needed. It was healing to watch her finally receive support. Her relationship with Stella was soft and sweet, and I loved their story the most.
💖 What to Expect
• Regency era
• Time travel
• Body swap
• Sapphic romance
• Mental health rep
• Found family
• Historical fiction
_ _ _
⭐ Final Score: 4 stars
📅 Pub Date: March 3, 2026
📝 Thank you to HarperCollins 360 and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy. All thoughts are my own.
This is a time traveling, body swapping, modern girl in Regency England kind of story and somehow it works. We get both a sapphic romance and an MF romance here. Etta wakes up in Regency England and Hetty finds herself in modern times.
Etta was honestly terrible at adopting Regency era mannerisms and lowkey seemed to enjoy the shock factor. I cannot even blame her because it was hilarious. I loved watching her find a sense of belonging. She was so desperate for family and connection. I was surprised by how she softened her brother’s heart. And Lord Stanhope was absolutely not prepared for her 🤣
Hetty’s storyline hit me close to home. Her mental health struggles were heartbreaking, especially knowing how long she went without the help she needed. It was healing to watch her finally receive support. Her relationship with Stella was soft and sweet, and I loved their story the most.
💖 What to Expect
• Regency era
• Time travel
• Body swap
• Sapphic romance
• Mental health rep
• Found family
• Historical fiction
_ _ _
⭐ Final Score: 4 stars
📅 Pub Date: March 3, 2026
📝 Thank you to HarperCollins 360 and NetGalley for the advanced digital copy. All thoughts are my own.
February 24, 2026
Review of advance copy received from the Publisher.
Thank you HQ Stories for the proof copy for review!
4⭐️ | OUT 26th February!
This was the perfect little comedic pick-up I needed!
What would you do if you a modern woman from the 21st century was body swapped into the body of a woman from the 19th century? Calamity would ensue as you would expect.
Etta Moore does not expect much of her dull existence in 2023 until she mysteriously meets two older ladies on the tube who speak of her ancestor Henrietta Bainbridge. Before she knows it she has swapped lives with Henrietta in Regency England. Quite frankly, Etta seems to prefers the slower way of life in Regency England without technology, balls and the dashingly handsome Lord Stanhope.
Meanwhile Hetty (Henrietta), who has always felt unseen and lost in the 19th century comes alive in 2023 with the help of modern medicine and the affections of her rather beautiful teacher Stella..
This fun story is told back and forth between the two characters point of view 200 years apart. I found Helen's writing to be snappy and witty. This book was such a joy to read and I had a lot of fun with it.
Definitely one to pick up if you are in for a little Bridgerton meets Freaky Friday!
*Just a note - definitely do not look too closely at the logistics or loopholes on two time-swapping ancestors/descendants or you will start to see a lot of holes. ;)
Thank you HQ Stories for the proof copy for review!
4⭐️ | OUT 26th February!
This was the perfect little comedic pick-up I needed!
What would you do if you a modern woman from the 21st century was body swapped into the body of a woman from the 19th century? Calamity would ensue as you would expect.
Etta Moore does not expect much of her dull existence in 2023 until she mysteriously meets two older ladies on the tube who speak of her ancestor Henrietta Bainbridge. Before she knows it she has swapped lives with Henrietta in Regency England. Quite frankly, Etta seems to prefers the slower way of life in Regency England without technology, balls and the dashingly handsome Lord Stanhope.
Meanwhile Hetty (Henrietta), who has always felt unseen and lost in the 19th century comes alive in 2023 with the help of modern medicine and the affections of her rather beautiful teacher Stella..
This fun story is told back and forth between the two characters point of view 200 years apart. I found Helen's writing to be snappy and witty. This book was such a joy to read and I had a lot of fun with it.
Definitely one to pick up if you are in for a little Bridgerton meets Freaky Friday!
*Just a note - definitely do not look too closely at the logistics or loopholes on two time-swapping ancestors/descendants or you will start to see a lot of holes. ;)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC!
Two young women, Henrietta from 1817 and her ancestor, Etta, from 2024 trade places with the help of a metaphysical bracelet. Each woman is thrust in to a completely new world full of strange social demands and experiences. Each meets a special someone very much of their own time, but with whom they form a bond that would have been impossible before the switch.
The Regency Switch is a fun, frothy book examining social mores over time and the way different keys fit different locks. It has a specific eye on the way women exist in such different time periods, the varying challenges, freedoms, and expectations. Both Etta and Hettie are sympathetic and well-rounded characters who I came to feel for. I loved watching them navigate their fish-out-of-water situations, and the love stories were both wonderful and heart-warming. There's a lot of great humour, touching moments, and the secondary characters were fantastic too. I was absorbed completely into both women's worlds and had a great time with this book.
Two young women, Henrietta from 1817 and her ancestor, Etta, from 2024 trade places with the help of a metaphysical bracelet. Each woman is thrust in to a completely new world full of strange social demands and experiences. Each meets a special someone very much of their own time, but with whom they form a bond that would have been impossible before the switch.
The Regency Switch is a fun, frothy book examining social mores over time and the way different keys fit different locks. It has a specific eye on the way women exist in such different time periods, the varying challenges, freedoms, and expectations. Both Etta and Hettie are sympathetic and well-rounded characters who I came to feel for. I loved watching them navigate their fish-out-of-water situations, and the love stories were both wonderful and heart-warming. There's a lot of great humour, touching moments, and the secondary characters were fantastic too. I was absorbed completely into both women's worlds and had a great time with this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Regency Switch is a fun and charming take on Regency romance with a time-traveling twist. I warmed to the writing instantly, with its humorous and confessional style, trying maybe a bit too hard but still witty and cozy and British. The call to action came so fast, it felt almost abrupt - I’d expected more time Bridget Jones-ing - but getting right down to the action is so rare these days that I can't really complain. I loved getting swept along with Etta's Regency adventure and romance with MMC Max, and Hetty's finding her way to freedom from her mental health struggles and the forced heterosexuality of her own time felt so rewarding. I'll take a sapphic subplot wherever I can get one! Sure, it's all a little - a lot - contrived, but it's also a time-traveling, body-swapping Regency romance, and that's probably the point. Suspend all disbelief, and you’ll have a great time with this one!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC :)
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC :)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
First off I love time travel stories and anything about the Regency period so I was looking forward to this. Hetty and Etta switch places and each has to navigate their new world and the people they're involved with.
Unfortunately this book did not work for me at all! The present day story wasn't a bad read but the Regency story was off the charts. Etta was a very unlikable character. She carried on as she would in her own time for the most part and people just accepted it. No one even raised an eyebrow at the outlandish things she did and said which didn't sit right with me.
The Regency part was crammed with information, too much information.
I don't like swearing in books because for me it jars and breaks the flow and lately I've seen in creep in to many novels and the innuendo in this one just went on and on.
I see from other star ratings that it definitely has it's fans but sorry, I'm not one of them.
Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for an early copy.
Unfortunately this book did not work for me at all! The present day story wasn't a bad read but the Regency story was off the charts. Etta was a very unlikable character. She carried on as she would in her own time for the most part and people just accepted it. No one even raised an eyebrow at the outlandish things she did and said which didn't sit right with me.
The Regency part was crammed with information, too much information.
I don't like swearing in books because for me it jars and breaks the flow and lately I've seen in creep in to many novels and the innuendo in this one just went on and on.
I see from other star ratings that it definitely has it's fans but sorry, I'm not one of them.
Thanks to HQ Digital and NetGalley for an early copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Spoiler-free review: The Regency Switch
Publishing: March 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I am a massive fan of any period piece as well as anything with time travel so this seemed like the perfect novel for me! I was so excited to read this, though while I enjoyed parts of it, it mostly fell short.
The writing was my biggest issue. Not only was it clunky in parts, the author tried very hard to incorporate modern day vernacular that was just uncomfortable (examples: “hashtag body positivity” and “Reverend Dickens was sashaying their way…”)
Something that really, really bothered me was the clear description of one character being “plus-sized” though the cover does not depict that at all. It wouldn’t have been hard to accurately depict the character on the cover.
Overall, I enjoyed this. There were really cute parts and several funny bits to make up for the odd writing.
Thank you so very much Harper 360 for the eARC! The opinions in this review are left here honestly and voluntarily.
Publishing: March 3, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I am a massive fan of any period piece as well as anything with time travel so this seemed like the perfect novel for me! I was so excited to read this, though while I enjoyed parts of it, it mostly fell short.
The writing was my biggest issue. Not only was it clunky in parts, the author tried very hard to incorporate modern day vernacular that was just uncomfortable (examples: “hashtag body positivity” and “Reverend Dickens was sashaying their way…”)
Something that really, really bothered me was the clear description of one character being “plus-sized” though the cover does not depict that at all. It wouldn’t have been hard to accurately depict the character on the cover.
Overall, I enjoyed this. There were really cute parts and several funny bits to make up for the odd writing.
Thank you so very much Harper 360 for the eARC! The opinions in this review are left here honestly and voluntarily.
November 18, 2025
This was a really fun wee read with a lot of heartwarming moments.
Positives:
- I loved Hetty being able to get medicine for her depression and being able to come out, it was so sweet
- I enjoy when historical romances have a modern twist, which this had in spades
- Max is green flag central and that’s my favourite kinds of MMCs
- The sapphic romance was lovely and they complimented each other really well
- I really loved the end note about what Etta got up to
The negatives
- The pacing was off at points, the start dragged quite a bit
- Etta makes several really obvious mistakes, which was frustrating from someone who was meant to have watched a lot of Bridgerton
Overall, a really good, light-hearted read!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Positives:
- I loved Hetty being able to get medicine for her depression and being able to come out, it was so sweet
- I enjoy when historical romances have a modern twist, which this had in spades
- Max is green flag central and that’s my favourite kinds of MMCs
- The sapphic romance was lovely and they complimented each other really well
- I really loved the end note about what Etta got up to
The negatives
- The pacing was off at points, the start dragged quite a bit
- Etta makes several really obvious mistakes, which was frustrating from someone who was meant to have watched a lot of Bridgerton
Overall, a really good, light-hearted read!
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper360 for an ARC of this novel!
I will admit, I found The Regency Switch to be a bit confusing at times. There was little to no explanation of the Season, for instance, and I found myself grasping at it based on context. I think I would have found it more helpful had there been a simple one sentence explanation. I'm American, not British, so that might be part of it anyways.
Outside of the confusion that I experienced, I found this to be a delightful read. Hetty's naivety made her fit into 2023, while Etta's made her stand out a lot in 1817. I was surprised how enjoyable I found this book- I'm not one for sci-fi and time jumps like this- but I found both of their stories sweet and the ending made me swoon!
I will admit, I found The Regency Switch to be a bit confusing at times. There was little to no explanation of the Season, for instance, and I found myself grasping at it based on context. I think I would have found it more helpful had there been a simple one sentence explanation. I'm American, not British, so that might be part of it anyways.
Outside of the confusion that I experienced, I found this to be a delightful read. Hetty's naivety made her fit into 2023, while Etta's made her stand out a lot in 1817. I was surprised how enjoyable I found this book- I'm not one for sci-fi and time jumps like this- but I found both of their stories sweet and the ending made me swoon!
October 24, 2025
"You're Henrietta Moore, and it's 2023. But we're offering you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, right here, right now. If you take this bracelet, you'll be Henrietta Bainbridge, and it'll be 1817."
I have a soft spot for stories like this - Lost in Austen, 13 Going on 30, Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure - where magic is sprinkled and unlikely adventures happen. This one is written with vim and vigour, and is a lot of fun.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy.
I have a soft spot for stories like this - Lost in Austen, 13 Going on 30, Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure - where magic is sprinkled and unlikely adventures happen. This one is written with vim and vigour, and is a lot of fun.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a fun, fast read! I am thankful for the opportunity to read an ARC of this from NetGalley. I was really excited for this one, as a Jane Austen fan and regency lover! In some ways, this book reminded me of The Confessions of a Jane Austen Addict. I love the same theme in this of body switching in regency era/modern times. I really enjoyed both Etta and Hetty, and their own personal struggles. I am always happy to see LGBTQ+ characters in regency stories! I was so happy for Hetty that in 2023, that she was able to fully live her life out loud. This was such a fun read, and I would highly recommend it for anyone looking for a good vacation read!
January 14, 2026
The book is the epitome of a fun & cozy time. The story jumped right into the middle of things where I would have preferred to know a bit more of the background but also this way it caught my attention immediately. With the alternating POVs it was hard to put the book down. This definitely fills any gap left by Bridgerton for the regency era fan. I don’t consider myself one but it’s for sure an era that I don’t mind reading about. I loved Hetty‘s and Etta‘s storylines and how they found their way through their new times. I also don’t mind that it was a shorter read in general, but it left me with a couple of questions that I would have loved to hear more about.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I got an ARC of this book through NetGalley.
This was really 4.5 stars for me because I could not put it down. I probably would’ve done 5 stars, but a couple things held me back.
The beginning was a little rough around the edges for me, but I was good after a couple chapters. The only other real gripe I have is that we didn’t get a little more detail about what Hetty did to the bracelets. But in the end it doesn’t really matter—this is a fun time travel romance and not a book that is taking itself too seriously.
This was really 4.5 stars for me because I could not put it down. I probably would’ve done 5 stars, but a couple things held me back.
The beginning was a little rough around the edges for me, but I was good after a couple chapters. The only other real gripe I have is that we didn’t get a little more detail about what Hetty did to the bracelets. But in the end it doesn’t really matter—this is a fun time travel romance and not a book that is taking itself too seriously.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was such a fun, escapist read. The body swap between modern day Etta and “Mad Hetty” in Regency England made for so many chaotic and hilarious moments, but it also had a surprising amount of heart. I loved watching both women figure out who they really are in completely different worlds. It was witty, romantic, and an absolute comfort read if you’re in the mood for something light but meaningful.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Really cute pair of romances of an ancestor and descendant who swap places. Hetty, the ancestor now in the modern day, gets to explore her sexuality, while Etta becomes a notable early feminist in the past she's been sent to. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
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January 7, 2026
I didn’t love it but I didn’t hate it. This would actually be a great movie. It just didn’t do anything for me. I love the concept. It’s super clever! I just didn’t fall for the characters. I did laugh out loud at some parts though!
Thank you netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
Thank you netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Freaky Friday meets Bridgerton. What a cute and funny read! I enjoyed both character perspectives and definitely laughed out loud while reading. Great read while waiting for more Bridgerton to be released.
October 17, 2025
This just didn't work for me.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
What a delightful timey wimey historical romance! A Dr Who/Bridgerton crossover perhaps?
Thanks to Edelweiss for sharing the ARC.
Looking forward to more from Helen Gaskell in the future!
Thanks to Edelweiss for sharing the ARC.
Looking forward to more from Helen Gaskell in the future!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was mostly super cute and funny. There were some emotional moments, mostly for Hetty, but mostly it was a joy to read.
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