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A Lady for All Seasons
Win a free print copy of this book!
11 days and 19:50:46
40 copies available
U.S. only
From the acclaimed author of Chef's Kiss and A Gentleman's Gentleman comes a riotous Regency romp, featuring a charming and unforgettable bigender lead.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single noblewoman who has lost her fortune (no thanks to her father’s terrible business dealings) must be in need (not want) of a husband.
It’s the end of the 1820 London season, King George III is dead, and there are no suitable suitors in sight. Beautiful, cunning, formerly wealthy Verbena Montrose must devise a new plan to secure a position for herself and save her odious family from abject poverty. Fortunately, what she lacks in a dowry, she makes up for in the currency of gossip.
When she hears an alarming rumor about her very dear, very queer friend Etienne that could put him at risk of ruin (or worse), she comes to his aid with a proposal—for a marriage of convenience, that is. But when Verbena discovers that a mysterious poet by the name of Flora Witcombe has been gaining popularity and publishing poems that hint she is onto their scheme, Verbena has no choice but to pretend to be a poet herself to confront her in a local salon. And—unexpectedly—be charmed by her.
Flora agrees to rectify the issue she’s caused, not least of all because she’s terrified by and smitten with Verbena in equal measure. After all, she holds a secret of her she is also William Forsyth, a struggling fiction writer and fifth son of a minor noble family. And if circumstances don’t allow Flora to woo Verbena, perhaps William will. Faced with two suitors and a fiancé, Verbena, who has always had to know everything about everyone to survive in society, may need to learn more about herself to discover whether true happiness actually lies outside of society’s constraints.
It is a truth universally acknowledged that a single noblewoman who has lost her fortune (no thanks to her father’s terrible business dealings) must be in need (not want) of a husband.
It’s the end of the 1820 London season, King George III is dead, and there are no suitable suitors in sight. Beautiful, cunning, formerly wealthy Verbena Montrose must devise a new plan to secure a position for herself and save her odious family from abject poverty. Fortunately, what she lacks in a dowry, she makes up for in the currency of gossip.
When she hears an alarming rumor about her very dear, very queer friend Etienne that could put him at risk of ruin (or worse), she comes to his aid with a proposal—for a marriage of convenience, that is. But when Verbena discovers that a mysterious poet by the name of Flora Witcombe has been gaining popularity and publishing poems that hint she is onto their scheme, Verbena has no choice but to pretend to be a poet herself to confront her in a local salon. And—unexpectedly—be charmed by her.
Flora agrees to rectify the issue she’s caused, not least of all because she’s terrified by and smitten with Verbena in equal measure. After all, she holds a secret of her she is also William Forsyth, a struggling fiction writer and fifth son of a minor noble family. And if circumstances don’t allow Flora to woo Verbena, perhaps William will. Faced with two suitors and a fiancé, Verbena, who has always had to know everything about everyone to survive in society, may need to learn more about herself to discover whether true happiness actually lies outside of society’s constraints.
304 pages, Paperback
First published March 10, 2026
21 people are currently reading
13700 people want to read
About the author
T.J. Alexander
6 books939 followersTJ Alexander is an amateur baker and author who writes about queer love. Originally from Florida, they received their MA in writing and publishing from Emerson College in Boston. They live in New York City with their wife and various houseplants.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
October 16, 2025
Trying to dual lavender marriage your (unbeknownst to you) genderfluid friend with no such luck because they are in love with you.
Or alternatively: fall in love with someone who has a propensity to hoard gossip and live for the macabre while on an artist retreat in Wales with a bunch of queer people (including Lord Byron who’s just here for the drama).
As your resident historical romance reader I am always on the hunt for new authors or ones pushing the mold in what this genre has to offer. TJ Alexander is here to answer my prayers with their upcoming historical romance, A Lady for All Seasons--featuring an unabashedly queer regency romance between a heroine with a penchant for collecting gossip, and a genderfluid lead trying to make their name as a poet and novelist.
It goes a little like this: Verbena needs a husband. Verbena convinces her queer friend Étienne to engage in a marriage of convenience. A local poet publishes a verse that hints she knows of their plan. Verbena confronts said poet, Flora Witcombe, only to develop feelings for her. But Flora is also William Forsyth, a gothic novelist struggling to make his name. Utterly in love with Verbena, they attempt to win her affections as both William and Flora before time runs out and she chooses the convenience of marriage to Étienne. Also Lord Byron is there (can’t state this enough).
A Lady for All Seasons is an astonishing historical romance juxtaposing the societal expectations of 19th century England with endless possibility and startling moments of queer joy. Encapsulated in winsome promenades, picnics, confessions by candlelight, Lord Byron’s constant presence, and a queer retreat in Wales, A Lady for All Seasons is delightful queer chaos wrapped up in a regency era bow. In their latest historical, TJ Alexander examines the queer lives and loves of this time, with an insightful look into the genderfluid identity. Part of what makes genderfluidity in this time period so interesting—and a driving force of tension in this romance, is the stark gender roles forcing Flora/William into two distinct sides. It makes for an anxious ridden journey where Flora and William are both trying to win Verbena’s affections and they are unable to unite for fear of exposure. Alexander does a fabulous job balancing this reality with moments of community, clarity, and heart. An unforgettable journey and a romance for always!
thank you to emily at penguin random house for sending me an advance review copy.
Bookstagram | Blog
Or alternatively: fall in love with someone who has a propensity to hoard gossip and live for the macabre while on an artist retreat in Wales with a bunch of queer people (including Lord Byron who’s just here for the drama).
As your resident historical romance reader I am always on the hunt for new authors or ones pushing the mold in what this genre has to offer. TJ Alexander is here to answer my prayers with their upcoming historical romance, A Lady for All Seasons--featuring an unabashedly queer regency romance between a heroine with a penchant for collecting gossip, and a genderfluid lead trying to make their name as a poet and novelist.
It goes a little like this: Verbena needs a husband. Verbena convinces her queer friend Étienne to engage in a marriage of convenience. A local poet publishes a verse that hints she knows of their plan. Verbena confronts said poet, Flora Witcombe, only to develop feelings for her. But Flora is also William Forsyth, a gothic novelist struggling to make his name. Utterly in love with Verbena, they attempt to win her affections as both William and Flora before time runs out and she chooses the convenience of marriage to Étienne. Also Lord Byron is there (can’t state this enough).
A Lady for All Seasons is an astonishing historical romance juxtaposing the societal expectations of 19th century England with endless possibility and startling moments of queer joy. Encapsulated in winsome promenades, picnics, confessions by candlelight, Lord Byron’s constant presence, and a queer retreat in Wales, A Lady for All Seasons is delightful queer chaos wrapped up in a regency era bow. In their latest historical, TJ Alexander examines the queer lives and loves of this time, with an insightful look into the genderfluid identity. Part of what makes genderfluidity in this time period so interesting—and a driving force of tension in this romance, is the stark gender roles forcing Flora/William into two distinct sides. It makes for an anxious ridden journey where Flora and William are both trying to win Verbena’s affections and they are unable to unite for fear of exposure. Alexander does a fabulous job balancing this reality with moments of community, clarity, and heart. An unforgettable journey and a romance for always!
thank you to emily at penguin random house for sending me an advance review copy.
Bookstagram | Blog
September 9, 2025
This one's for the she/hers, the he/shes, and anyone who has ever been annoyed by Lord Byron. So, you know. Pretty much everyone.
Want to read
December 18, 2025Listen I don't know who's managing ARCs for this book but if you happen to see this, I am a one-woman T.J. Alexander stan account and I am FROTHING AT THE MOUTH for this, thanks
August 29, 2025
What a fun and unique story!
I have read quite a few regency romances, many of them having LGBTQ+ themes, but none quite like this one.
Verbena needs to help her family financially, which leads her in search of a husband.
She proposes a marriage of convenice with a friend of hers, but not before she finds herself falling in love with a woman she has recently met, Flora.
Verbena and Flora get on great- and quickly grow closer and closer to one another.
But, there is a secret among them. Flora is sometimes William.
They must jepordize everything to tell Verbena the truth and attempt to court her.
When i started reading this i was having a really hard time getting into it.
Partially because it has kind of a slow start. Partially just because I was tired.
But once i got into it, I really got into it.
I was actually aching for the truth to come out.
The going back and fourth from Flora to William to keep Verbena from finding out? Oh my goodness.
I was getting real anxiety from this. I was pleading for nothing to go wrong.
I love the romance in this!!
They are so good together. The SUPPORT? The UNDERSTANDING? The RESPECT?
Stop. (actually, do not stop.)
I was so patiently (impatiently) waiting for them to get together. It felt like forever.
This was quite a short book, but the buildup? Everlasting.
So very worth it in the end.
Thank you to Netgalley, Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, and author T.J Alexander for providing me with the eARC of “A Lady for all Seasons”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: March 10th, 2025
I have read quite a few regency romances, many of them having LGBTQ+ themes, but none quite like this one.
Verbena needs to help her family financially, which leads her in search of a husband.
She proposes a marriage of convenice with a friend of hers, but not before she finds herself falling in love with a woman she has recently met, Flora.
Verbena and Flora get on great- and quickly grow closer and closer to one another.
But, there is a secret among them. Flora is sometimes William.
They must jepordize everything to tell Verbena the truth and attempt to court her.
When i started reading this i was having a really hard time getting into it.
Partially because it has kind of a slow start. Partially just because I was tired.
But once i got into it, I really got into it.
I was actually aching for the truth to come out.
The going back and fourth from Flora to William to keep Verbena from finding out? Oh my goodness.
I was getting real anxiety from this. I was pleading for nothing to go wrong.
I love the romance in this!!
They are so good together. The SUPPORT? The UNDERSTANDING? The RESPECT?
Stop. (actually, do not stop.)
I was so patiently (impatiently) waiting for them to get together. It felt like forever.
This was quite a short book, but the buildup? Everlasting.
So very worth it in the end.
Thank you to Netgalley, Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor, and author T.J Alexander for providing me with the eARC of “A Lady for all Seasons”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: March 10th, 2025
October 1, 2025
One of my rare full five stars romance read of the year but it's fully deserved since I've stayed up too late because I was reading.
A Lady for All Seasons was so fun and entertaining and I couldn't put it down for fear of enjoying it less if I finished it on my morning train.
I knew of this sapphic book's future existence when reading a Gentleman's Gentleman so I was looking at any woman who appeared to know which would star in the sequel and I'm glad it was Verbena for she became such a strong protagonist. She's smart, she's desperate, she's a victim of abuse, she's a shameless liar, she gets her way, she's a (probably? but I will fight TJ Alexander on the fact thats how she reads) acespec lesbian.
This book is a traditional comedy of errors and miscommunication but in that case the miscommunication is justified by a fear of transphobia and homophobia from all other participants. First you have Verbena from an impoverished fa.uly trying desperately to find her husband when she makes a lavender arrangement with Etienne, respected tailor from the first book, who's moved up by society. Meanwhile, a certain Scottish lord can make for an appealing pretendant but his interest is thoroughly into Etienne. When a famous society poetess writes an embarrassing poem, Verbena makes friends with the intriguing Flora and the attraction is mutual. But Flora knows she can only court Verbena as her man half, the novelist William. My dear reader this is where we end up in a mess where every woman is being paired up with a man when everyone is gay.
Also Lord Byron is here.
It's not without conflict as Verbena tends to lie to both half of the only person who could recognise her lies and yet loves her too much.
As opposed to a recent sapphic Regency romance I've read I always respect and love how TJ Alexander talks about class narratives where it's there, not dismissed, talked over and not of touch or paternalistic.
I've seen TJ Alexander describe it as sapphic-ish and I really hope it's not because they assume sapphic audiences would be hostile to William/Flora/[redacted]'s birth assignment or the fact that she hasn't shed her masculine identity. There are plenty of genderfluid lesbians with lesbian lovers.
A Lady for All Seasons was so fun and entertaining and I couldn't put it down for fear of enjoying it less if I finished it on my morning train.
I knew of this sapphic book's future existence when reading a Gentleman's Gentleman so I was looking at any woman who appeared to know which would star in the sequel and I'm glad it was Verbena for she became such a strong protagonist. She's smart, she's desperate, she's a victim of abuse, she's a shameless liar, she gets her way, she's a (probably? but I will fight TJ Alexander on the fact thats how she reads) acespec lesbian.
This book is a traditional comedy of errors and miscommunication but in that case the miscommunication is justified by a fear of transphobia and homophobia from all other participants. First you have Verbena from an impoverished fa.uly trying desperately to find her husband when she makes a lavender arrangement with Etienne, respected tailor from the first book, who's moved up by society. Meanwhile, a certain Scottish lord can make for an appealing pretendant but his interest is thoroughly into Etienne. When a famous society poetess writes an embarrassing poem, Verbena makes friends with the intriguing Flora and the attraction is mutual. But Flora knows she can only court Verbena as her man half, the novelist William. My dear reader this is where we end up in a mess where every woman is being paired up with a man when everyone is gay.
Also Lord Byron is here.
It's not without conflict as Verbena tends to lie to both half of the only person who could recognise her lies and yet loves her too much.
As opposed to a recent sapphic Regency romance I've read I always respect and love how TJ Alexander talks about class narratives where it's there, not dismissed, talked over and not of touch or paternalistic.
I've seen TJ Alexander describe it as sapphic-ish and I really hope it's not because they assume sapphic audiences would be hostile to William/Flora/[redacted]'s birth assignment or the fact that she hasn't shed her masculine identity. There are plenty of genderfluid lesbians with lesbian lovers.
March 11, 2026
Wow wow wow! TJ Alexander is sequel writing royalty, and on my auto buy list when it comes to queer friendly romances!
(Edit to add this is a spoiler free review, but wanted to say this was a wonderful exploration of gender identity!)
Though this is a sequel, it could easily be enjoyed as a standalone. However, the references and hints at the 1st novel were thoroughly enjoyable!
This was a true to form slow burn regency era romance. Chock full of nuanced gossiping, scandalous affairs, historical figures and romps. And a masquerade! I loved watching these characters navigate the harsh world of the ton while finding their authentic selves. Ruinous rumors and using words as a weapon, and the arts!
Know that this really revolves around found family, but miscommunication tropes abound. I’m usually not a fan of miscommunication, however this was executed in a way that I didn’t find frustrating as it truly did further the story. The reveals had me tearing up several times!
In the past I’ve struggled with the verbiage and prose of regency era novels, but not in this case. This was exceedingly easy to consume, and I couldn’t put this down! Thank you to TJ Alexander, Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage and Anchor, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
(Edit to add this is a spoiler free review, but wanted to say this was a wonderful exploration of gender identity!)
Though this is a sequel, it could easily be enjoyed as a standalone. However, the references and hints at the 1st novel were thoroughly enjoyable!
This was a true to form slow burn regency era romance. Chock full of nuanced gossiping, scandalous affairs, historical figures and romps. And a masquerade! I loved watching these characters navigate the harsh world of the ton while finding their authentic selves. Ruinous rumors and using words as a weapon, and the arts!
Know that this really revolves around found family, but miscommunication tropes abound. I’m usually not a fan of miscommunication, however this was executed in a way that I didn’t find frustrating as it truly did further the story. The reveals had me tearing up several times!
In the past I’ve struggled with the verbiage and prose of regency era novels, but not in this case. This was exceedingly easy to consume, and I couldn’t put this down! Thank you to TJ Alexander, Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage and Anchor, and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
Want to read
December 12, 2025pfft the way i searched this to add to my tbr and it was already there
November 28, 2025
I don't know to express how beautifully and wondrously queer this book is. The amount of times I squealed, "Girl, ur GAY!" out loud while reading...
February 25, 2026
Book Review: A Lady For All Seasons, by TJ Alexander
304 pages, Rated ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Lady For All Seasons was a fun historical romantic romp, and a delightful return to the characters from A Gentleman's Gentleman. I enjoyed Verbena as a character in that book and I was interested to see what her story would be in this sequel.
In summary: the beautiful Verbena Montrose must marry to save herself from poverty. What she lacks in a dowry, she makes up for in gossip. When she hears a rumor about her dear, queer friend Etienne that could ruin him, she proposes they marry for convenience. Enter Flora Witcombe, renowned poet, who unknowingly tangles herself in this scheme and becomes smitten with Verbena. But Flora has a secret of her own: that she is also William Forsyth, a struggling novelist and fifth son of a noble family. Perhaps if Flora cannot woo Verbena, William can?
I really enjoyed the character of Flora/William, and I wasn't so annoyed with Flora to be turned off by the book. I wasn't super into all of her meddling though and a lot of the conversations did hurt, especially because she was lying to Flora when William knew that, or vice versa, and we never really got any closure there. I enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and how Flora/William's gender fluidity was handled, on the journey they were on, and how that was less of the issue at hand then other things in the end. I wasn't super crazy about how the ending got tied up as it did, though. I felt like the book built with a lot of angst and drama to then be tied off a bit too easily.
Also the will they/won't they did drag out for a long while that I personally was not satisfied with the level of romance we were given after the fact, but that is neither here nor there haha.
All-in-all, I did think that this was a fun book and did a good job of representing William/Flora's character (even if I disliked the name they chose for themselves in the end haha -- but also be more creative, you are a novelist/poet, you have it in you!)
Thank you to NetGalley and Vintage for providing me with the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: March 10, 2026
304 pages, Rated ⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Lady For All Seasons was a fun historical romantic romp, and a delightful return to the characters from A Gentleman's Gentleman. I enjoyed Verbena as a character in that book and I was interested to see what her story would be in this sequel.
In summary: the beautiful Verbena Montrose must marry to save herself from poverty. What she lacks in a dowry, she makes up for in gossip. When she hears a rumor about her dear, queer friend Etienne that could ruin him, she proposes they marry for convenience. Enter Flora Witcombe, renowned poet, who unknowingly tangles herself in this scheme and becomes smitten with Verbena. But Flora has a secret of her own: that she is also William Forsyth, a struggling novelist and fifth son of a noble family. Perhaps if Flora cannot woo Verbena, William can?
I really enjoyed the character of Flora/William, and I wasn't so annoyed with Flora to be turned off by the book. I wasn't super into all of her meddling though and a lot of the conversations did hurt, especially because she was lying to Flora when William knew that, or vice versa, and we never really got any closure there. I enjoyed the chemistry between the main characters and how Flora/William's gender fluidity was handled, on the journey they were on, and how that was less of the issue at hand then other things in the end. I wasn't super crazy about how the ending got tied up as it did, though. I felt like the book built with a lot of angst and drama to then be tied off a bit too easily.
Also the will they/won't they did drag out for a long while that I personally was not satisfied with the level of romance we were given after the fact, but that is neither here nor there haha.
All-in-all, I did think that this was a fun book and did a good job of representing William/Flora's character (even if I disliked the name they chose for themselves in the end haha -- but also be more creative, you are a novelist/poet, you have it in you!)
Thank you to NetGalley and Vintage for providing me with the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: March 10, 2026
December 22, 2025
[ARC review] Can't believe TJ made me feel sympathy for Lord Byron, talk about talent
March 11, 2026
A Lady for All Seasons reunites us with Verbana Montrose, who has absolutely no interest in finding a husband despite what Regency society expects of her. But when her friend Etienne becomes the subject of gossip, she proposes the perfect solution: a lavender marriage that will protect them both.
The plan works… until local poet Flora Whitcombe reveals she knows their secret. What starts as a confrontation quickly turns into an unexpected friendship filled with wit, tension, and undeniable chemistry. But Flora has a secret of their very own, some (including Verbana), also know them under the name of William.
This story is funny, heartfelt, and wonderfully chaotic. Seeing these characters navigate the rigid expectations of society while gradually embracing who they truly are was such a rewarding experience. The inclusion of a genderfluid character added a beautiful and meaningful layer to the story that made it feel even richer. The slow burn here is so worth it, and the found family that forms along the way made my heart ridiculously happy.
If you love historical romance with queer joy, witty banter, and a found family that feels like home, this one is definitely worth picking up.
A Lady for All Seasons is out today, get your copy now friends!
The plan works… until local poet Flora Whitcombe reveals she knows their secret. What starts as a confrontation quickly turns into an unexpected friendship filled with wit, tension, and undeniable chemistry. But Flora has a secret of their very own, some (including Verbana), also know them under the name of William.
This story is funny, heartfelt, and wonderfully chaotic. Seeing these characters navigate the rigid expectations of society while gradually embracing who they truly are was such a rewarding experience. The inclusion of a genderfluid character added a beautiful and meaningful layer to the story that made it feel even richer. The slow burn here is so worth it, and the found family that forms along the way made my heart ridiculously happy.
If you love historical romance with queer joy, witty banter, and a found family that feels like home, this one is definitely worth picking up.
A Lady for All Seasons is out today, get your copy now friends!
February 25, 2026
I thought the way T.J. portrays William/Flora was so well done and touchingly honest. While A Gentleman’s Gentleman was made stronger by the single pov, I think this one packs a powerful punch by giving us Verbena and William/Floras perspectives. It provided for a few giggles, but mostly, this really powerful opportunity to experience both sides of this individual falling in love with Verbena. And be subsequently heartbroken as Verbena herself has trouble navigating her feelings for William and Flora separately. It lent to so many moments of confusion and angst.
Verbena is trying to mold her life into what she wants it to be while still living in the confines of society’s expectations. And in trying to do so, she ultimately ends up hurting both sides of William/Flora. Her motivations aren’t cruel; she’s trying to keep all her friends safe in the only way she knows how. But part of Verbenas' growth in this book is realizing that’s not always the best way. That feelings matter sometimes more than practicalities. She’s such a complex character (honestly, they both are!), that could have been really one-note if not done correctly. Thankfully, this author Knows What They’re Doing, and this “mean girl” was so much more.
I really loved this one and went on such an emotional journey with our MCs. I wasn’t sure how this happy ending was going to work out, even with so many possibilities; none of them felt quite satisfying. But the ending delivered on such a sweet and lovely ending for our pair that felt so perfect! This also felt nicely steamy, too, with our pair having so much tension that ended up paying off well. I’m also a sucker for a second love story, and Miles & Etienne added a great touch to this story. Both as supportive friends for our leads, and with their own side love story.
5/5
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for an eARC of this novel.
Verbena is trying to mold her life into what she wants it to be while still living in the confines of society’s expectations. And in trying to do so, she ultimately ends up hurting both sides of William/Flora. Her motivations aren’t cruel; she’s trying to keep all her friends safe in the only way she knows how. But part of Verbenas' growth in this book is realizing that’s not always the best way. That feelings matter sometimes more than practicalities. She’s such a complex character (honestly, they both are!), that could have been really one-note if not done correctly. Thankfully, this author Knows What They’re Doing, and this “mean girl” was so much more.
I really loved this one and went on such an emotional journey with our MCs. I wasn’t sure how this happy ending was going to work out, even with so many possibilities; none of them felt quite satisfying. But the ending delivered on such a sweet and lovely ending for our pair that felt so perfect! This also felt nicely steamy, too, with our pair having so much tension that ended up paying off well. I’m also a sucker for a second love story, and Miles & Etienne added a great touch to this story. Both as supportive friends for our leads, and with their own side love story.
5/5
Thank you to the publishers and netgalley for an eARC of this novel.
January 14, 2026
Thank you netgalley for this ARC!
This was very cute! I enjoyed the chance to learn and see more of Étienne and Verbena after loving them both in the first book in this world. Verbena was such a fun and interesting character to get to focus on. I loved all of the gossip and her point of view of “the ton” and this world. The other MC (no name to avoid spoilers) was just as interesting, if not more so, and I loved the duality of this character and seeing how that played out in the story and with character development. This was a very sweet love story and a treat to get so much representation and delicious queer love! I’m grateful to have gotten to get my hands on it early!
This was very cute! I enjoyed the chance to learn and see more of Étienne and Verbena after loving them both in the first book in this world. Verbena was such a fun and interesting character to get to focus on. I loved all of the gossip and her point of view of “the ton” and this world. The other MC (no name to avoid spoilers) was just as interesting, if not more so, and I loved the duality of this character and seeing how that played out in the story and with character development. This was a very sweet love story and a treat to get so much representation and delicious queer love! I’m grateful to have gotten to get my hands on it early!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
TJ Alexander always (pleasantly) surprises me with the way they form an unexpected story! I went into this thinking I was going to get one story, and got something completely different and infinitely entertaining and thought provoking. I don't want to say anything specific because it's best of you go in with zero expectations. Just know that it is a unique love story and may zig when you expect it to zag.😍
4.25🌟
4.25🌟
Want to read
March 11, 2026To be honest T.J. Alexander could write me their grocery list, and I would be the crying fist bump gif
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Verbena Montrose is under orders to find a husband. Her family fortune is dwindling, and her mother believes that Verbena hasn't been trying hard enough to snare a good match. She has no interest in any of the eligible gentlemen, so she convinces her dear friend Etienne to enter a marriage of convenience so that they will be free to pursue affairs of their choosing. Flora Witcombe, a poetess of some success and friend of Lord Byron's, catches Verbena's eye as someone who could be a dear friend - or perhaps more. Another suitor, William Forsyth, has his heart set on Verbena. He's a failed novelist, fifth son, and wholly inappropriate in her mother's eyes for Verbena...not the least of all because he's also Flora. William is desperate to gain Verbena's attention, Flora is a trusted confidant, and time is running out before Verbena weds Etienne.
TJ Alexander has a wonderful voice for historical romance. Originally making their mark in contemporary, they bring a beautiful perspective to queer historicals, with introspective characters and quiet plots that focus on societal norms. That's not to say there isn't humor - in fact, A Lady for All Seasons has plenty of moments that made me chuckle and smile. The cast of characters leaned a little too big overall, with a few more names than we needed to keep track of for such a character based story, so I confused characters early in the book. Once that settled though, I really enjoyed the flow of the romance.
Queer historical romance is an important genre, because queer people have always been here. It bothers me when someone comments "this isn't historically accurate" because the stories of queer people, particularly trans/nonbinary people remained hidden from public eye. That said, the queer romances I most enjoy are those that solve the HEA within the structure of a historical society. Even in a time other than our own, it's important to me that I know our romantic leads can make their love work in the boundaries of what existed. The HEA for A Lady for All Seasons satisfied that desire, even as they kept me guessing until the last minute. The conversations around William/Flora's gender identity are powerful, and play so well into the story.
A Lady for All Seasons stands alone well from A Gentleman's Gentleman, but you don't want to miss either book.
Thank you to Vintage for an eARC. A Lady for All Seasons is out 3/10/2026.
TJ Alexander has a wonderful voice for historical romance. Originally making their mark in contemporary, they bring a beautiful perspective to queer historicals, with introspective characters and quiet plots that focus on societal norms. That's not to say there isn't humor - in fact, A Lady for All Seasons has plenty of moments that made me chuckle and smile. The cast of characters leaned a little too big overall, with a few more names than we needed to keep track of for such a character based story, so I confused characters early in the book. Once that settled though, I really enjoyed the flow of the romance.
Queer historical romance is an important genre, because queer people have always been here. It bothers me when someone comments "this isn't historically accurate" because the stories of queer people, particularly trans/nonbinary people remained hidden from public eye. That said, the queer romances I most enjoy are those that solve the HEA within the structure of a historical society. Even in a time other than our own, it's important to me that I know our romantic leads can make their love work in the boundaries of what existed. The HEA for A Lady for All Seasons satisfied that desire, even as they kept me guessing until the last minute. The conversations around William/Flora's gender identity are powerful, and play so well into the story.
A Lady for All Seasons stands alone well from A Gentleman's Gentleman, but you don't want to miss either book.
Thank you to Vintage for an eARC. A Lady for All Seasons is out 3/10/2026.
March 8, 2026
3.5/5
I enjoyed this book, but I didn’t love it. I think, in the end, I enjoyed the first one more despite the pacing. This one is a little bit better, but suffers from the same syndrome of shoving a lot in at the end with little space for any of it.
The romance is odd to me. Because Verbena spent so much time being introduced and playing two sides with William and Flora’s personas in turn, it felt like though he got the chance to get to know her and fall in love and she didn’t get the same amount of time. And the ending didn’t much allow for any romance at all.
The pacing was ultimately fine, though the plot didn’t compel me in any significant way.
As individuals, I quite enjoyed all the main characters and I had a good time with the theme of being artists and how that changes the outlook on the world and the relationships they have. Both Verbena and Flora were interesting in their use of gossip to build things that were very different but ultimately invaluable to their circumstances, but I struggle to describe them as people in any significant way.
I did really love the boys. Miles is a sweetheart, and we got to know how he is as person which was lovely. But I’d read a book about him and Etienne because I wanted more. Entienne himself is a wonderfully dynamic character and one of the few I recalled very clearly from the first book. It was lovely to see him again and follow his plot line through.
I think I will read every single book that TJ puts out, but I’d love to find one I connect with on the same level others do.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book, but I didn’t love it. I think, in the end, I enjoyed the first one more despite the pacing. This one is a little bit better, but suffers from the same syndrome of shoving a lot in at the end with little space for any of it.
The romance is odd to me. Because Verbena spent so much time being introduced and playing two sides with William and Flora’s personas in turn, it felt like though he got the chance to get to know her and fall in love and she didn’t get the same amount of time. And the ending didn’t much allow for any romance at all.
The pacing was ultimately fine, though the plot didn’t compel me in any significant way.
As individuals, I quite enjoyed all the main characters and I had a good time with the theme of being artists and how that changes the outlook on the world and the relationships they have. Both Verbena and Flora were interesting in their use of gossip to build things that were very different but ultimately invaluable to their circumstances, but I struggle to describe them as people in any significant way.
I did really love the boys. Miles is a sweetheart, and we got to know how he is as person which was lovely. But I’d read a book about him and Etienne because I wanted more. Entienne himself is a wonderfully dynamic character and one of the few I recalled very clearly from the first book. It was lovely to see him again and follow his plot line through.
I think I will read every single book that TJ puts out, but I’d love to find one I connect with on the same level others do.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 10, 2026
Thank you to Vintage for providing me a free copy of this ebook. All opinions are my own.
Verbena *needs* to get married for familial financial reasons (and frankly, to get away from her mother) so she decides to have her gay male friend court her because then when they’re married, she can spend more time with her *dear* female friend, who also has a secondary identity (that she doesn’t know about), and oh it’s just such a fun time.
So many fun plans and schemes, while trying to manage themselves within the strict confines of Regency society, and I truly never knew how everything was going to be wrapped up, but so enjoyed the adventure to their HEA.
The real highlight for me was their sojourn at an artist’s retreat. So many shenanigans, especially as it pertained to Flora/William, which I found to be equally fun and emotional.
And Lord Byron was such a fun addition to the cast; what a great character.
Overall, a wonderful queer histrom, with lovely characters to root for, and so much queer joy. 🥰
What this book is giving:
✅ Queer Regency Romance
✅ Genderfluid MC
✅ Marriage Scheming
✅ Shenanigans
✅ Found Family
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ /5
🌶️🌶️½ / 5
Verbena *needs* to get married for familial financial reasons (and frankly, to get away from her mother) so she decides to have her gay male friend court her because then when they’re married, she can spend more time with her *dear* female friend, who also has a secondary identity (that she doesn’t know about), and oh it’s just such a fun time.
So many fun plans and schemes, while trying to manage themselves within the strict confines of Regency society, and I truly never knew how everything was going to be wrapped up, but so enjoyed the adventure to their HEA.
The real highlight for me was their sojourn at an artist’s retreat. So many shenanigans, especially as it pertained to Flora/William, which I found to be equally fun and emotional.
And Lord Byron was such a fun addition to the cast; what a great character.
Overall, a wonderful queer histrom, with lovely characters to root for, and so much queer joy. 🥰
What this book is giving:
✅ Queer Regency Romance
✅ Genderfluid MC
✅ Marriage Scheming
✅ Shenanigans
✅ Found Family
Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½ /5
🌶️🌶️½ / 5
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks #NetGalley for the advanced copy of #ALadyforAllSeasons by TJ Alexander in exchange for an honest review.
If you like Emma by Jane Austen, this is your book. It took me a little while but I finally realized that this book is a retelling of Emma. Once I realized that I stopped getting annoyed by Verbena and started enjoying the book a lot more and I ended up really liking the story and the characters. I really loved Flora/William and only wanted the best for them so I was happy when I started liking Verbena. I found all of the major players in this story to be compelling and interesting and well written. There was some miscommunication issues but overall, it didn't make me frustrated because it felt like a real miscommunication situation rather than a contrived one for "romance reasons." In other words, I felt like it could really happen and not something I watched on Three's Company way back when (yes, I am genX). There were times that I wanted more romance but it does fit accurately with the beats you see in Emma so felt like it was in keeping with the retelling and not an actual flaw with the story.
This was my 2nd book by TJ Alexander and it confirms that I need to read the rest of Alexander's backlist.
If you like Emma by Jane Austen, this is your book. It took me a little while but I finally realized that this book is a retelling of Emma. Once I realized that I stopped getting annoyed by Verbena and started enjoying the book a lot more and I ended up really liking the story and the characters. I really loved Flora/William and only wanted the best for them so I was happy when I started liking Verbena. I found all of the major players in this story to be compelling and interesting and well written. There was some miscommunication issues but overall, it didn't make me frustrated because it felt like a real miscommunication situation rather than a contrived one for "romance reasons." In other words, I felt like it could really happen and not something I watched on Three's Company way back when (yes, I am genX). There were times that I wanted more romance but it does fit accurately with the beats you see in Emma so felt like it was in keeping with the retelling and not an actual flaw with the story.
This was my 2nd book by TJ Alexander and it confirms that I need to read the rest of Alexander's backlist.
September 28, 2025
Alexander does it again with this twisty, turny, sweet, and hot book about two characters trying to make their love fit in a society that criminalizes it.
I'm not going to give a summary of this book because it's too hard for me, an amateur reviewer, to do without giving away too much of the plot.
Let's just say if you like pining (so much pining!) you'll enjoy this book. Normally I dont enjoy this much pining--but given the nature of the time, it would have been unbelievable for Verbena and Willa to hook up sooner.
This was a great follow up to A Gentleman's Gentleman!
Thank you to Vintage Books and Net Galley for an advanced copy of this book.
I'm not going to give a summary of this book because it's too hard for me, an amateur reviewer, to do without giving away too much of the plot.
Let's just say if you like pining (so much pining!) you'll enjoy this book. Normally I dont enjoy this much pining--but given the nature of the time, it would have been unbelievable for Verbena and Willa to hook up sooner.
This was a great follow up to A Gentleman's Gentleman!
Thank you to Vintage Books and Net Galley for an advanced copy of this book.
March 10, 2026
2026: 4.25
I had a small issue with this, but I think it was handled as well as possible.
Spoilers:
I understand the need for secrecy, and I'm glad Verbena was not bothered terribly once she figured things out, but it was very cruel in my opinion to stick her in the situation of hoping she would fall in love with both personas without any reason to believe they were the same person. They were really in a difficult position, but I would have liked to see Flora acknowledge that more overtly prior to being found out.
I had a small issue with this, but I think it was handled as well as possible.
Spoilers:
I understand the need for secrecy, and I'm glad Verbena was not bothered terribly once she figured things out, but it was very cruel in my opinion to stick her in the situation of hoping she would fall in love with both personas without any reason to believe they were the same person. They were really in a difficult position, but I would have liked to see Flora acknowledge that more overtly prior to being found out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Absolutely incredible. A heartwarming, well written romance of errors with of the most original and engaging characters I've read in historical fiction in a while!
Thank you to NetGalley and Vintage for the opportunity to read this lovely story early.
Thank you to NetGalley and Vintage for the opportunity to read this lovely story early.
March 9, 2026
I love that ending and I hope every queer book I ever read from now on ends like that.
This was a lovely queer regency romance with a wonderfully sweet cast of characters. I wanna say it’s more on the historically accurate side but I really don’t know enough about British history to make that call. But it certainly felt historically accurate. Honestly the most unrealistic (both in terms of history and just life in general) was the idea that no one ever recognised Flora/William. That’s a minor gripe though, and I could very easily see past it. It kind of gave it a slightly whimsical air that I’m not sure the author intended, but wasn’t entirely unwelcome.
Really the main thing I didn’t like about this was the beginning, which dragged a bit. I understand it was because the story first had to set up a bunch of things, and after that it proceeded at a nice medium pace, but it was a rough start that kind of put me off the book for a moment.
———
Thank you to Vintage for this ARC!
This was a lovely queer regency romance with a wonderfully sweet cast of characters. I wanna say it’s more on the historically accurate side but I really don’t know enough about British history to make that call. But it certainly felt historically accurate. Honestly the most unrealistic (both in terms of history and just life in general) was the idea that no one ever recognised Flora/William. That’s a minor gripe though, and I could very easily see past it. It kind of gave it a slightly whimsical air that I’m not sure the author intended, but wasn’t entirely unwelcome.
Really the main thing I didn’t like about this was the beginning, which dragged a bit. I understand it was because the story first had to set up a bunch of things, and after that it proceeded at a nice medium pace, but it was a rough start that kind of put me off the book for a moment.
———
Thank you to Vintage for this ARC!
January 26, 2026
Literally could not put it down. Read this in one sitting.
September 16, 2025
Ohh, a queer regency romance from T.J.Alexander? Yes, please. After devouring “A Gentleman’s Gentleman” I knew I would love this book before I even picked it up.
Technically, not the Regency Era, since the Prince Regent is now King George IV when the story opens, but let’s not quibble. Verbena still has the same problems as women of that era. She must find a husband, because that’s what is expected of her. She finds that a friend, a wealthy tailor, who is queer as a three dollar bill, also needs to marry, so they decide to wed as a marriage of convenience.
Then a infamous poet, Flora Witcombe, points out what they are doing, and Verbena must confront her, only to be smitten by her instead, and she as well. And as devastating as that might be in this era, it is even harder than that, because Flora is also William, sometimes.
As expected, high jinks ensue, as Verbena wants her friend Flora to wed William, because they seem as though they were made for each other. Throw in Lord Byron, who, as the author says, anything they could write about him are not as f*cking weird as what the historic Lord Byron did.
Beautifully written. Logical for the times, and I kept trying to guess how this would all be solved, because, after all, it is a romance, and you want everyone to end up happy at the end.
All the stars. This book will be published on the 10th of March 20225. Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
Technically, not the Regency Era, since the Prince Regent is now King George IV when the story opens, but let’s not quibble. Verbena still has the same problems as women of that era. She must find a husband, because that’s what is expected of her. She finds that a friend, a wealthy tailor, who is queer as a three dollar bill, also needs to marry, so they decide to wed as a marriage of convenience.
Then a infamous poet, Flora Witcombe, points out what they are doing, and Verbena must confront her, only to be smitten by her instead, and she as well. And as devastating as that might be in this era, it is even harder than that, because Flora is also William, sometimes.
As expected, high jinks ensue, as Verbena wants her friend Flora to wed William, because they seem as though they were made for each other. Throw in Lord Byron, who, as the author says, anything they could write about him are not as f*cking weird as what the historic Lord Byron did.
Beautifully written. Logical for the times, and I kept trying to guess how this would all be solved, because, after all, it is a romance, and you want everyone to end up happy at the end.
All the stars. This book will be published on the 10th of March 20225. Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.
October 16, 2025
Christopher walked so Verbena could run in this second installment of TJ Alexander's Regency rom com universe. I was a huge fan of A Gentleman's Gentleman and was delighted to have the pleasure of reading an ARC for this book! It is so funny and so absurd in a Shakespearean way, like Twelfth Night or Midsummer Night's Dream level shenanigans. Of course, it is more than just wacky hijinks, but also an exploration of gender identity and dynamics, with earnest fumbles and heartfelt make ups along the way.
November 26, 2025
A Lady for All Seasons is delightful queer Regency story, and I couldn’t put it down. Verbena is a fantastic heroine: clever, desperate, messy, and shaped by a difficult past. Her connection with Flora/William, a brilliantly written genderfluid lead, gives the story a unique emotional depth.
The book leans into comedy of errors, mistaken identities, and secret romances, all while everyone involved is very queer whic i loved, and yes, Lord Byron shows up purely for the drama. TJ Alexander handles class, queerness, and identity with nuance while keeping the story fun and fast-paced.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
The book leans into comedy of errors, mistaken identities, and secret romances, all while everyone involved is very queer whic i loved, and yes, Lord Byron shows up purely for the drama. TJ Alexander handles class, queerness, and identity with nuance while keeping the story fun and fast-paced.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
September 20, 2025
I’ve read and enjoyed TJ Alexander’s previous books, both contemporary and historical, but I found this one to be rough going. The pacing is all over the place and so is the plot. There were parts that I really liked, but this book could not decide if it was a drama or a farce. At times William and Flora were running around, changing places and outfits like a 19th century Mrs Doubtfire.
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
Thanks to Edelweiss, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
November 17, 2025
At times deliciously angsty with the (unfortunately understandable) lack of communication, I had a great time reading this, and I sure hope TJ Alexander writes more historical romances.
November 10, 2025
I think I enjoyed book 1 more because of how thoughtfully it navigated the mc’s experiences whereas this felt a little more blase - but the pacing was better.
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