She was determined to remain a spinster—until love gave her a new reason to dream.
Lady Eugenie Drayton is tired of being told what she can and cannot do. Bold, clever, and entirely too curious for Society’s liking, she decides to take matters into her own hands by sneaking into an Oxford lecture disguised as a man. But her plan is swiftly upended when she is discovered by none other than Charles Ellsworth, Earl of Bedford—a man far too proper, far too persistent, and far too memorable, especially after the kiss they once shared.
Charles has spent the past few months trying to forget the infuriating and enchanting Lady Eugenie. He appreciates her desire to learn more than Society believes acceptable. But when he finds her where no lady should be, he’s forced to intervene. Reluctantly, they strike a bargain—one that forces them into close proximity and threatens the fragile walls around both their hearts.
As their partnership teeters on the edge of scandal and something far more dangerous, Eugenie must decide if she truly desires a life of independence…or the kind of love that would change everything.
As the second novel in the Courting the Unconventional series by author Laura Beers, A Spinster's Folly continues the series. This is a light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. All books in this series have their own Happily-Ever-After and are best enjoyed in proper order.
Other series by Laura Beers include The Beckett Files, Regency A Promise of Love, Proper Regency Matchmakers, Regency Spies & Secrets, Gentlemen of London, Lords & Ladies of Mayfair and The Lockwood Family.
Laura Beers is an award-winning author. She attended Brigham Young University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. She can't sing, doesn't dance and loves naps.
Laura lives in Utah with her husband, three kids, and her dysfunctional dog. When not writing regency romance, she loves waterskiing, hiking, and drinking Dr Pepper.
This is book two in the series. It can be read as a standalone but there are spoilers from book one. I loved Eugenie and Charles in book one and now they get their own story. I like them even more now. I love Eugenie and how she wants to be educated and be her own person. Charles is trying to get his affairs in order and deal with his troublesome cousin. I really enjoyed their relationship and their playful banter was great. When a scandal comes along, they have to decide what to do. It was also nice to see characters from book one again. Overall a great read and I recommend! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: one use of “d*mn” that some may possibly consider swearing
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
A huge thank to Laura Beers for giving me the opportunity to be on her arc team for this novel. She was another Regency author that I discovered in 2024 and absolutely adore her work! I was also on her arc team for her previous book An Improbable Scheme and this book being its sucessor was just as wonderful. I absolutely found everything about this book to be truly wonderful!
We are introduced to Eugenie Drayton who is okay with living the live of a spinster. However, the rules of a society make things complicated and sometimes when Eugenie decides to defy those rules she doesn't think about the impact her actions will have on others. When she meets Charles who is captivated by her desire to learn she starts to wonder whether continuing the lifestyle of a spinster is even worth it.
Oh my goodness, A Spinster’s Folly was such a fun read! I adored Lady Eugenie—she’s clever, stubborn, and refuses to play by Society’s rules. The scene where she sneaks into an Oxford lecture dressed as a man had me grinning right away, and of course, that’s when she literally runs into Charles, the proper but smoldering Earl of Bedford, who cannot seem to forget the kiss they once shared.
We met Eugenie and Charles in An Improbable Scheme and I was excited to get their story so soon. What I loved most is how Eugenie never loses her independence, even as she and Charles get pulled closer together. Their banter is sharp, their chemistry is undeniable, and Charles is the kind of hero you can’t help but swoon over—steady, protective, but also willing to respect Eugenie’s fierce spirit. I loved how he was determined to get Eugenie to change her mind about remaining a spinster; that he wanted to prove that he would be supportive of her endeavors.
For fans of historical romance, especially those who appreciate a clever and spirited heroine this is a must-read. This is the kind of book that leaves you smiling, sighing, and wishing for just one more chapter.
I received an ecopy from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
This was a perfect continuation after the first book! I absolutely loved Eugenia before, so I loved reading a book all about her! Charles was also a favorite, so he was wonderful as well. 🩷
Charles & Eugenia's perspective on life and inward beauty was so refreshing. They both sought for what was right, and learned so much in the process. I always love when they finally see how they're perfect for each other in every way. 🩷
A very sweet, clean, closed-door Regency series that I'd recommend!
A clean story. A strong willed spinster is pursued by an Earl is is also not sure about marriage. Interesting story but sadly a few oddities. The characters are in London but visit Oxford in Eugenie’s case allegedly to shop in the High Street, and then she’ll be back home. Charles also goes to and from Oxford. However, Oxford is some 60 miles from London, and about 1.5 hours by car, so in Regency period I would suggest 5 or 6 hours each way. I would suggest that it’s unlikely anyone attempted to do the return journey in a day by coach. Changes of horses would be needed etc, so very improbable sadly, but made to sound as if it’s just a short hop. Then we have the Alcock’s. Early he had been wearing a black armband as I sign of mourning for his father, yet he and his sister are at a ball. Not sure that would have been the case, as it would be very scandalous if in mourning. Later we have Charles waking in unannounced to a gathering of women at his cousin’s house. The butler I am sure would have alerted him to this and placed him elsewhere whilst seeing if Eugenie/Elsbeth were at home. Given he immediately goes to Eugenie what do the other women think given the scandal, it would just inflame it, so unlikely to happen. Towards the end Eugenie orders the stable to ready her horse. She has donned men’s clothing so that would be causing a stir, and do they even have a man’s saddle for her horse. Also given she has not ridden for some years why is her horse in London? I rather think it would have been at the country estate. The story line was okay and apart from issues above mostly alright. I do take issue with the attempted abduction of Eugenie. Not sure why Kingston would attempt that. His issue is with Philip and Charles. Kidnapping another Earl’s sister is not really going to help his cause. It’s a bit tenuous to assume Charles might marry Kingston’s sister to free Eugenie, and abducting an Earl’s daughter would result in serious repercussions. And then with the duel he says he wants to protect his sister, and get satisfaction by killing Philip. Doing so I think would mean his arrest and at best deportation if not hanging for what would be viewed as a serious crime and possibly murder. That would leave his sister alone and with child. Didn’t quite sit right with me. So was it 3 or 4 stars. I think 3.5, and on balance I’ve gone to 4. A little attention to some of the detail I’ve mentioned would have made it a solid 4 star.
Another absolutely fantastic regency romance with a side of suspsene from Laura Beers!
Eugenie is determined to be a spinster for life- and hopefully maintain the small semblance of independence and freedom that she’s managed to secure as a woman in Regency England. But there’s one problem- she can’t forget the romantic kiss she shared with a certain Earl of Bedford. Despite her resolve to remain a spinster, the kiss is never far from her thoughts, especially when the man behind the gesture seems to be cropping up wherever she goes. What’s a future spinster to do?
For Charles, marriage is also not on the agenda- between trying to corral his wayward heir into having a semi ñ-respectable path and managing his vast estate, he’s got his hands full. But something about Eugenie is different. He knew it at the first kiss, and he knows it again when he catches her in the act of a highly risky and potentially ruinous pursuit of knowledge. Despite his claims to the contrary, he begins to care for the stubborn woman. What’s an earl to do?
This book functions as a standalone, but I loved the book so much more because I had gotten to know Charles and Eugenie from the previous book. All the scenes with Eugenie riling up her brother (the miniature horse!) were my fav because I had already gotten used to their rapport in the previously book. I loved how Charles supported Eugenie in her risky but passionate desires to defy societal expectations for women. He was her supporter and champion through it all. But at the same time, he was completely clueless about women, and it was hilarious.
The suspenseful aspects of this book were also fun! I loved the Bow Street Runner character and the truths that he unveiled while trying to figure out what was going on with Eugenie. I won’t say anything more so as to not spoil it, but I it all tied together very nicely at the end. The epilogue was a satisfying, sweet, and fun addition. Definitely recommend this book for all the Regency fans out there!
After meeting Eugenie in Courting the Unconventional Book 1, I was eager to read her story!
Eugenie is a fiercely independent young woman intent on breaking the barriers that surround the women of her time. She seeks to attend lectures where only men are allowed, she writes and hopes to write for the news sheets, and she refuses to marry because that will cost her her freedom, right? Enter Charles.
Charles is an intelligent and charming young man who is completely intrigued with Eugenie and goes out of his way to help her pursue her interests.
When their names end up tied up in scandal based on lies Charles must convince Eugenie to marry him, but Eugenie would rather be a spinster than marry for anything less than love.
While juggling his growing feelings for Eugenie, Charles is also caring for his own family, including his heir and cousin who is intent on pursuing pastimes that will ruin his life.
Eugenie and Charles just make sense and it was so nice to get to watch their story unfold as they grow as individuals and together. They are so caring and supportive of each other while also having hilarious banter!
Definitely check out this book and the first in Courting the Unconventional if you enjoy regency romance and a touch of mystery!
Thank you to Laura 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.
Content: Language - mild (a couple different uses of damn) Clean kisses only No innuendo Mild violence Attempted kidnapping
“Nothing about life is simple. But that does not mean we stop trying.”
Another amazing book by Laura!! The humor, wit, banter, suspense, and mystery all weaved into this book was incredible and I could not get enough! This book can be read as a stand-alone, but there will be spoilers from book 1 in this book.
I absolutely loved Eugenie in book 1 and I could not wait for her story! She is fierce, confident, cannot be dissuaded from her plans, and determined to be a spinster. Her sharp wit and ability to bring humor to stressful situations endeared her to me and I wish I could be more like her in ways! Charles has had his title thrust upon him. He desired academia in his future but now he is always reading ledgers and estate business. He feels a marriage is a business transaction and is a practical man….very practical!
I felt for Eugenie and her determination to marry for love, or not at all. Charles’s devotion to protecting and loving her, all of her, was absolutely heart melting. Eugenie found someone who would accept her as she is, and not expect her to change.
I really enjoyed seeing characters from book 1 and how Niles, Eugenie’s brother, has to put up with quite a lot of shenanigans from her. I love seeing his character break the societal norm for an earl and all he permits Eugenie to do-include ghost writing for a society newssheet.
If you love Regency romances filled with wit, slow-burn tension, humor, a confident strong FMC, mystery, protective MMC, and adorable grand gestures including a miniature horse, you will absolutely love this story!!
Thank you to Laura for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Eugenie and Charles are a stunning and inspirational couple. Both are utterly determined to never get married; strong in their convictions that they don't need anyone else in their life. Eugenie's brother had recently married and her new sister in law has a cousin who is making more and more appearances around their home.
Charles is a young Lord and is very busy with his new responsibilities, not to mention trying to keep his other cousin and heir, Philip, out of trouble with the gambling halls. But he finds a much needed respite when he visits Eugenie's family estate for repeated invitations to dinner.
There are lots of characters in this story playing matchmaker, which added lots of giggles and humor as Eugenie and Charles cannot seem to stay away from one another. Since they are both strong headed in their convictions and refuse to act on their feelings for one another, they are surprised when they end up embroiled in a scandal.
After the papers publishes a gossip column saying that the two of them had been seen alone during a ball, Charles is convinced he must marry Eugenie to save her reputation. But Eugenie could care less about that and will only marry for love. Until they can both admit the depth of their feelings, they will be trying to outrun this scandal and ignoring their own feelings.
This book was so fun! I love this series and the unconventional ladies in it! Eugenie is headstrong and goes after what she wants, regardless of what society tells her she should be doing. Sweet Charles can match wits with her, and tease her in a way others can't. Yet, he understands her need to chase her passions and does not judge her or shun her because of them. He embraces her and all she is. They are a really fun couple, and it is fun to see where they ended up together after their kiss in book 1. The other great thing about these romances is the intrigue. It starts out like a regular romance book, but when Eugenie's Sister-in-law Elsbeth has to pull her pistol out, the book has a bit of a twist.
Things I loved about this book: - The banter -Her wig -His gift to her -Reading to Sir Spotticus -Her sparring of words with Niles -His undying support of her and her interests
One of my favorite quotes: But it wasn't just her beauty that held him captive. It was something deeper. She was beautiful in the way she saw the world and in the way her eyes lit up when she spoke of something she loved. She was beautiful in the sharp wit that danced on her tongue and in the kindness she showed to those around her.
I hope you love this book as much as I did! Happy Reading!
A Spinster’s Folly is the second book in the Courting the Unconventional series, and it is delightfully witty and full of mystery. This is Lady Eugenie’s story and her passion to learn leads her to some compromising situations. Luckily, she has Charles who is determined to keep her out of trouble and certainly is her hero and champion repeatedly. I feel for Eugenie, she is content to remain unwed because she only wants to marry for love and doesn’t feel someone will love her for the strong and spirited woman she is. Charles is forever protecting and teasing her while encouraging her at every turn. His devotion to her is so heartfelt. Eugenie and Charles compliment each other and I loved seeing their journey to realizing they are meant to be together. I also enjoyed seeing so much of Niles and Elsbeth from book one. A Spinster’s Folly was charming, funny, witty and a romance filled with genuine and heartfelt friendship and love.
Favorite things: - Carriage ride with newlyweds - Oxford - The disguise - Her bending Society’s rules - His devotion to her - Their banter and teasing - Sir Spotticus!
Tropes: - Regency romance - Friends to more - Spirited & dedicated FMC - Charming & protective MMC - Witty banter - Supportive family - Mystery - Sweet kisses
This is book two in the Courting the Unconventional series, and it picks up where the first story is left off and with a cast of familiar and lovable characters. This time, it is Eugenie's chance to sparkle, and it has that comfortable Regency era romance with a dash of the unexpected.
I love how Laura writes such captivating stories that are so well developed. We get this fun love story while there is danger swirling all around. It keeps the entire storyline so perfectly paced, and I couldn't put this one down. I think I read it in four hours!
Eugenie, the wannabe spinster, and Charles, the uncertain earl, are magic together. Their relationship is witty and cute, and Charles' support of Eugenie is so lovely and just what I hoped for. It takes an army to get these two stubborn characters together, but it was worth a little angst to see how it all worked out. The epilogue was the cherry on top. Laura reminds me of just why I love reading Regency stories. ❤️
Eugenie Drayton had me shaking my head (in a good way) at the lengths in which she would go to defy societal conventions. This included costuming and secretly attending a class at University. Her thirst for knowledge and her unstoppableness made her the kind of young lady I would love to befriend. I loved her outspoken nature and her brother Niles trying to keep her from doing something rash, which took a lot of patience on his part.
Eugenie is one young lady that Charles Ellsworth just can’t get off of his mind. He is very supportive of her wanting to explore her interests and gain her independence. Eugenie was a lucky gal to have had Charles as her most understanding friend and champion.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
“ She wanted to expand her mind, push boundaries, and feel the thrill of stepping into a world that unequivocally told her that she didn’t belong,”
“People who read are far more interesting than their counterparts who don’t.”
Things to enjoy: Regency era friends to HEA humor writer Sir Spotticus danger
I received a copy of this book. All opinions in this review are my own.
She wanted freedom. Spinsterhood provided that. A wonderful story about struggling against society’s norms to find your true self. Eugenie longed for a deeper education than what society saw as proper. When she is caught by Charles, Lord Bedford, dressed as a man trying to attend a college lecture her plan fails. When she explains her desire for more learning, Charles agrees to keep her secret. He then approaches a friend, who is a professor, to allow Eugenie to attend a lecture in disguise and accompanied by Charles. And so their relationship begins, as Charles considers what he would like his future to be like and Eugenie begins to wonder if perhaps the freedom to learn and grow may be found in a different route. Mix in a kidnapping, a duel, and a rebellious cousin always in trouble for an engaging read. A wonderful read to enjoy. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Another great addition to this entertaining series. Lady Eugenia is much more than a lady of fashion and marriageable traits. She has a sharp mind, quick wit and a lot of determination. She has made up her mind to be a spinster and is happy with her choice. Others of the ton do not agree with her. Charles Ellsworth, Earl of Bedford, has not considered marriage as of yet. His heir is his cousin Peter, although he has been trying his patience of late. Maybe he should consider marriage. The story has drama, intrigue, mystery, lively banter, and sweet romance. It grabs your interest from the opening scene and you won’t want to put the book down till the end. The characters are so well written and the story has you biting your nails in anticipation. It is a clean, wholesome romance that will make you swoon.
A new regency love story with @author_laura_beers classic sense of romance and witty banter! Eugenie and Charles are such a perfect mix of being similar enough to truly understand and see each other but also different enough to challenge each other. The way that Charles supported Eugenie's dreams and even her antics because that was what made her happy was so sweet. And the way he encouraged her to face her fears? It was perfection! It was so endearing and sigh worthy too now Eugenie softened around Charles. You could tell she felt more like herself around him and I loved her sense of humor and determination to be authentic. The stable scene was a personal fav of mine! Now I am going to be waiting impatiently for the next book in the series because it sounds like it just might be my fav!
Charles and Eugenia are fantastic characters. I love that Eugenia wants more than what most women were allowed to do at the time. She doesn't let society dictate what she can or cannot do. She is careful how she goes about it, however. I love that Charles encourages Eugenia in her endeavors and doesn't try to put her in a box. He even helps her to fulfill some of the things she wants to do. I love that they are both a bit resistant to love, yet can't seem to stay away from each other. They truly make each other better people. I also love all the matchmakers in the background trying to get them together in their own separate ways. This is a fantastic book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
Ever since meeting Eugenia in the first book of this series I have looked forward to her story, and it did not disappoint! I loved the shenanigans and the heartfelt moments. A great story all around!
Eugenia is determined to attend an Oxford lecture. When her sister in law’s cousin, Charles, catches Eugenia trying to sneak into a lecture then they find themselves at attracted odds.
Highlights: Eugenia’s carriage ride with newlyweds 😂 The Oxford lecture! Sir Spotticus is so cute!!
I love Eugenia for her love of learning. I love how smart and driven she is.
I love Charles for being protective but not restrictive.
“But you are anything but common, my dear.” This was an ARC, all thoughts are my own.
Charles and Eugenie are proof that love can overcome the greatest of fears. Both want love, but fear holds them back. Fear of losing your own identity, fear of losing yourself entirely if something should ever happen to that love. Fear of not being ready to commit to something so grand. Realizing that the person you love knows you, and accepts you completely, finally allows the fear to fade and love to conquer. There is added drama and intrigue in the form of an attempted kidnapping and duel. In addition to a beautiful love story, there are side characters who lead me to hope there will be several more stories in this series.
If you read the first in the series, then you know a little bit about these two, and I absolutely loved all of it. I loved how much Eugenie wanted to be her own person, stay a spinster, read books and not conform with society‘s expectations. She had a deep thirst for learning and knowledge. Charles is also an academic, but had to step away to take care of his household and his heir. He treasures his friendship with Eugenie, but doesn't recognize the feelings of love. He could be his true self around her. These two have such a fun dynamic, building a relationship as friends and keeping secrets, they aren't even aware they are falling in love. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to read the books that Laura writes. They have become some of my favorite and I adore them all.
This is the second book in the Courting The Unconventional Series and it is a wonderful addition🥰 It is a very entertaining read with mystery, suspense, and scandal that makes it extremely difficult to put down…I ended up reading this in two sittings😂 I recommend reading this series in order!
“You don’t know what the future holds. You should live and love everyday like it is your last. Because one day, it will be. You must take chances and live your life.”
“When you find the right person, they make you forget about yesterday and dream about tomorrow.”
Are you ready for another fabulous book by Laura Beers? 📚 She was determined to remain a spinster—until love gave her a new reason to dream. 📚 If you love a strong independent female main character then you will LOVE Eugenie. I love how she goes after what she wants. She knows what she wants and isn't afraid to take a couple risks to get it. 📚 And NO ONE writes witty banter like Laura! I was laughing so much!! This book is so good! 📚 This was given to me by the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own. #cleanromance #strongfmc #banter #regency #cleanregencyromance #ARCreads
A wonderful story of a free spirited heroine strong and confident yet fragile when faced with love and expectations of society. The hero who is strong enough to enjoy her strength and whims. There is humor and family support throughout the plot. There is some relationship conflicts from various characters that add another element to the whole story. Both books in the series are well written and worth reading. They are standalone reads but I enjoyed them in sequence. I look forward to reading more of the series and author!
Eugenie was so much fun to read about. The daring and boldness that drove her brother crazy and made Charles fall for her. Charles proposed out of duty but Eugenie will only marry for love even though there is a scandal. Charles' nephew is a headache for him. There is a threat made toward Eugenie and her brother and Charles hire a Previous bow street runner to find out who is behind it. It takes something dangerous for Charles and Eugenie to admit their love.
This was a cute clean historical romance that was easy to read and made me laugh and sigh. I loved how both main characters grew throughout the story and realized their love for each other, and I thought the miniature horse was an adorable side character! The only thing that didn’t ring true was the occasional use of modern words and phrases in the story. Otherwise it was a satisfying and fun read! I would recommend it!
Eugenie and Charles make such a sweet couple! I loved their banter and how they support one another. Charles is always helping Eugenie with her madcap schemes and making sure she is protected. It is fun coming back to this world of characters. I thoroughly enjoyed this couple’s journey and the epilogue was oh so sweet!
I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. I was not required to leave a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"Love is not something you search for. Love finds you, and when it does, whether you are ready or not, it will be the best thing to ever happen to you. " "And I am convinced the rest of my life looks like you." This book contains all of the best story elements, and dreamy declarations to make you swoon. Thank you Laura Beers for sharing happiness.
Most of the story is set in London with some excursions to Oxford. The author moved Oxford much closer to London than its actual sixty miles in order to enable day trips to there from London. Made it difficult for me to have that feeling of being in the story.
I was not s when first started reading, I couldn't figure out who was who,once pass that I couldn't put it down, worried that Charles and Eugenie were not going end up together, so glad they did loved ending when had kids. Thank you!💖