Lord Frederick's Return: A Regency Novel

by Catherine Kullmann

An older hero, an enigmatic heroine and a delightfully outspoken four-year-old. Throw scandal into the mix for a gripping and tender Regency love story

August 1816. Lord Frederick Danlow returns to England after spending 18 years in India. He plans to make a home for himself and his motherless, four-year-old daughter, Ruperta. Unsure where to start, he accepts an invitation to stay at Ponsonby Place, home of Colonel Jack Ponsonby who made his fortune in India, and his daughter Susannah, the mistress of the household.

Soon Frederick finds himself in need of a governess—and a wife? The more time he spends with Susannah, the more his admiration of her deepens. Is she the woman with whom he will share his life?

He is resolved to court her, but then his younger brother Henry engulfs his family in an appalling scandal that could prevent any lady from agreeing to a connection with it. Now Frederick must support his family during this ordeal.

But what of Susannah? What will she say when she hears of the scandal? Should he, dare he offer her his heart and his hand?

Genres: Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, Historical, Fiction

270 pages, Hardcover

Published July 24, 2025

About the author

I was born and educated in Dublin. Following a three-year courtship conducted mostly by letter, I moved to Germany where I lived for twenty-five years before returning to Ireland. I have worked in the Irish and New Zealand public services and in the private sector.

I have a keen sense of history and of connection with the past which so often determines the present. I am fascinated by people. I love a good story, especially when characters come to life in a book.

I have always enjoyed writing, I love the fall of words, the shaping of an expressive phrase, the satisfaction when a sentence conveys my meaning exactly. I enjoy plotting and revel in the challenge of evoking a historic era for characters who behave authentically in their period while making their actions and decisions plausible and sympathetic to a modern reader. In addition, I am fanatical about language, especially using the right language as it would have been used during the period about which I am writing. But rewarding as all this craft is, there is nothing to match the moment when a book takes flight, when your characters suddenly determine the route of their journey.

Reviews

[Chris]

I got this book on release date and read it in one sitting, as I was so pulled in by the story! Lord Frederick spent a long time in India, having left England just after he turned an adult. When he returns, he doesn't come alone, but with his four year-old daughter, who is an absolute delight. Unsure of where to set himself up, he finds a temporary home with a colonel who himself had returned from India some 20 years earlier. But Lord Frederick knows he cannot stay there forever. And when he reaches out to his older brother, he is quickly pulled in to the latest family scandal...

Lord Frederick's Return is a lovely, gentle regency romance novel with a compelling plot and likable, believable characters. The scandal sub-plot adds a little grit to the story, while always staying true to the tone of the main story. The attention to historical detail is flawless, as always with Catherine Kullmann's novels. For fans of Catherine Kullmann's work there is a nice link to one of her previous novels, The Potential for Love. However, Lord Frederick's Return is a standalone novel, which is thoroughly enjoyable on its own!

If you're looking for an immersive read, that will pull you in from the first page, then I highly recommend Lord Frederick's Return!

[Claire]

It has been a very long time since I read a novel set in the Regency that pleased me as much as Lord Frederick’s Return. I am finding it hard to criticise any of it. It was, for me, a delightful read with high quality prose, a wealth of historical detail and leading characters I liked and admired. I’d like to know them again in a future story.

The basic premises is that Lord Frederick Rupert Danlow, age 38, has returned from 20 years in India. He has made his fortune and enjoyed his time living there, learning the languages, living happily with the customs, food, music, society, etc. During his time there he had a “bibi”, a Hindu mistress, by whom he had a daughter, Ruperta. Sadly, the girl’s mother died in childbirth and Lord Frederick admits that though he did not marry her, they did love each other and he isn’t really sure why he did not legitimise the situation other than he accepted that the sort of arrangement he had was usual and customary. I am sure that some readers will judge him harshly for this but I do not; I agree with his decision for it was very much the manner and more of the day, time and place. In any event, he decides he will return to England and bring little Ruperta back with him. He waits until she is four years old and able to cope with the six month sea journey back to England. He brings with him her ayahs (native nursemaids) so that she will be with familiar faces.

On their return, he is introduced to the elderly retired Col Ponsonby with a view to receiving advice on returning from Indian to English society for the Colonel spent many years in India and he, too, has a daughter, Susannah, the daughter of his bibi. Susannah is now nearing 30 years old and was once disappointed in love by a fortune hunter prepared to overlook the “unfortunate circumstances of her birth”, e.g. illigitimate and “half-caste”.

The son and brother of a Marquess, Frederick is eager to see his brother and sister-in-law again and a visit is contrived with the usual complications of travel in those times. He and Susannah have fallen in love and he wishes for her to meet his family and be accepted by them ahead of their marriage. Thus they travel to Northumberland and his family seat together with her father and servants, etc.

The story line of this novel is really very simple. A man returns home, meets a suitable woman, his little child adores the woman and the feeling is mutual. The man’s family accept and truly like the woman, they get married and live happily ever after. However, though there are none of the “alarums and excursions” that can infiltrate Regency-set stories, there is a calm, steady pace as the story unfolds. Of course every ointment has flies and there are some here that are handled very well with simplicity and care. There is prejudice – common at the time (and now) – against a mixed race person. There is a murder (a side story but an important one), a murder trial and conviction of Lord Frederick’s younger brother (shocking and surprising), an attempted suicide, nasty relatives who want money and others who are just plain rude and hostile. But the lovers never doubt each other, their love is true and strong and the important family members are their staunch supporters.

I really enjoyed reading this. It was charming and knowing, well written, discerning in handling difficult issues, it held my attention and the reader meets interesting and very amenable people as well as the nasties. If you are thinking you’d like to read something Regency-set that’s a little different, then this might be for you. The author has done her research and cites her sources, several of which I have read myself. She shows in a very quiet way that love can win out over different if not necessarily ultimately difficult circumstances.

[Mary Yarde]

“He would have been content to grow old in India with Jiya but she had been cruelly taken from him and India had lost its savour.”

It had been 18 years since Lord Frederick Danlow had stood on English soil. With his four-year-old daughter in tow, he must look to make a life for himself. But so much has changed since he was last here, and he needed guidance on what to do next.

Having been invited into the home of Colonel Jack Ponsonby, who had made his money in India and has a spinster daughter, Frederick begins to realise just how different the two countries are, but thankfully, the colonel and his daughter Susannah are on hand to give advice and a place to catch his breath.

Frederick was surprised at how effortless it was to be around Susannah. However, with the reputation of his family being tarnished by the crimes of his younger brother, he wondered if she would ever consent to his hand in marriage.

With a graceful flourish of her quill, Catherine Kullmann crafts a beautifully tender romance in "Lord Frederick’s Return: A Regency Novel." Her storytelling effortlessly draws readers into this enchanting era, where the characters navigate a landscape of societal expectations and personal desires. The narrative is not only beautifully crafted but also rich in detail, rendering it a delightful and memorable reading experience.

Lord Frederick Danlow is vividly portrayed as a gentleman of noble lineage, exuding the refined elegance that accompanies his aristocratic upbringing. His character is intricately shaped by the rich and challenging experiences during his time in India, which has deeply influenced his worldview. With a thoughtful and often pensive demeanour, Frederick bears the subtle weight of weariness that life’s complexities have etched upon him. At the heart of his concerns is the well-being of his four-year-old daughter, Ruperta, whose joyful innocence stands in sharp contrast to the burdens that Frederick carries. His protective instincts drive a passionate urgency in his actions, stemming from a father’s love for his only daughter. The tender memories of his past relationship with Jiya, the mother of his children, echo in the recesses of his mind, interwoven with vibrant recollections of the lush, sprawling landscapes of India—a land that has left an indelible mark on his identity and spirit. This poignant blend of nostalgia and dislocation transforms him into a complex figure, one who feels intrinsically out of place as he navigates the familiar yet foreign terrain of England after his lengthy absence. The sights and sounds of his homeland, now tinged with strangeness, evoke feelings of both longing and alienation. Upon reuniting with his brother, Frederick experiences a profound sense of disconnection, as if he is a mere visitor in his own home. This uncomfortable realisation underscores the significant impact of his prolonged absence, making him acutely aware of the changes that have unfolded in his time away. He is eager to rebuild family ties, yet his thoughts are dominated by the responsibilities he feels toward Ruperta, determined to ensure her safety and happiness above all else. Although he has left behind two twin sons in India, there exists a palpable distance in their relationship. The reader senses that the bond Frederick shares with his daughter is far more profound and intimate than that with his sons, evoking a strong sense of longing for connection and belonging. Frederick Danlow emerges as a character who inspires sympathy and empathy, compelling readers to root for his journey as he seeks to rediscover his place in the country of his birth, yearning for a sense of belonging that has eluded him for so long.

Miss Susannah Ponsonby is portrayed as an exceptionally gracious and nurturing woman. Born in the vibrant landscapes of India, she was brought to England by her English father, Colonel Jack Ponsonby, who has always held a cherished position in her heart. As she navigates her life in England, Susannah often feels like an outsider, struggling to find her place in a society that values wealth and status while looking down on people of mixed heritage. Although one suitor relentlessly pursues her, his motives are painfully transparent; he is more captivated by her father’s considerable fortune than by her character and spirit. As a result, Susannah remains unmarried, quietly enduring the societal pressure that often accompanies a woman’s single status. Deep down, she yearns for a family and a home of her own, but she possesses the maturity and wisdom to refuse to settle for a man who seeks only her father’s wealth. Her emotional bond with her father is profound and genuine, yet she often wrestles with the haunting question of why he chose not to marry her mother or bring her to England when he relocated. The absence of her mother casts a long shadow over Susannah’s life, and the sense of loss lingers even after many years. With a unique perspective shaped by her experiences in both English and Indian cultures, Susannah quickly forms a bond with the spirited young Ruperta, recognising a kindred spirit in her. At the same time, she finds herself captivated by the charming Lord Frederick, whose dashing demeanour and charisma intrigue her. Despite this, Susannah remains practical and grounded; at her age, society labels her a spinster, and she feels she has no time to indulge in fanciful dreams of romance. Overall, Susannah Ponsonby is a deeply compelling character who invites empathy and admiration. Her genuine nature and relatable struggles make her a remarkable presence in the story, embodying resilience and grace amid the complexities of her world.

Little Ruperta is a vibrant and spirited child who radiates joy wherever she goes. Her infectious laughter and boundless energy make her utterly delightful, endearing her to everyone around her. With her bright, curious eyes, she eagerly explores the world, asking countless questions as she seeks to understand everything she encounters. Her love for her father is evident in the way she looks up to him with admiration, always seeking his assurance, love, and, of course, asking him to read her another story! Ruperta is like a beam of sunshine, bringing warmth and positivity that can brighten even the toughest days, leaving a trail of smiles in her wake.

The scandal surrounding Frederick’s younger brother unfolds with careful precision, casting a shadow over the family’s otherwise esteemed reputation. Henry flickers into the narrative like a shadow, his presence fleeting yet impactful. Although he appears in the story for only a moment, readers are encouraged to reflect more deeply on his character and the twists of fate that led him to this pivotal moment in his life, standing trial in court for triple homicide.

The setting of the story is intricately detailed and plays a vital role in shaping its themes. The narrative begins on the East Indiaman, a grand ship that cuts through the Indian Ocean, with the sun setting behind the vanishing coastline of India. This imagery poignantly symbolises Frederick’s departure from his former life, suggesting a transition filled with both promise and uncertainty. The confined, somewhat monotonous environment of the ship creates a stark contrast to the vibrant life on land, reinforcing Frederick’s feelings of isolation as he navigates these new waters. As the story unfolds, rich descriptions of the English countryside come to life, including Colonel Ponsonby’s impressive manor. This setting highlights the stark cultural differences between the lush, exotic landscapes of India and the more familiar, yet equally alien, terrain of England. Thankfully, there is a little of India in Colonel Ponsonby’s estate, which does initially help Frederick and his daughter, but as the narrative shifts to London, a sense of dislocation becomes palpable as he struggles with a world that feels both welcoming and alien. The sharp transition from the elegance of Rickersby House, adorned with opulent furnishings and intricate decor, to the grim, imposing atmosphere of the courtroom reveals the darker side of urban life. The Sessions House looms large, its architecture stark and foreboding, contributing to an atmosphere fraught with tension. This juxtaposition not only establishes the historical context but also creates a palpable mood of unease.

Susannah and Ruperta (although Ruperta is innocently unaware) face significant challenges due to their mixed heritage and the difficult circumstances of their births. This background renders them undesirable in the eyes of many, including certain family members, who refuse to accept them into their social circles. This rejection is deeply painful and serves as a harsh reminder of societal prejudices. As Susannah’s relationship with Frederick blossoms, she grapples with a nagging insecurity, convinced that her history disqualifies her from being the right partner for someone like him. The prospect of becoming his wife fills her with anxiety, particularly because of the judgment she knows she would face from women of the Ton, especially if her experience of Mrs. Lowe is anything to go by. The societal prejudices of the era serve as a poignant reminder of how the aristocracy exercised its power over others.

Kullmann has expertly captured the complex social dynamics of the era, particularly in her portrayal of the relationships between British men and their Indian mistresses. These men often engaged in passionate romances while stationed in India, only to sever those ties upon their return to England. They frequently cast aside the women who had shared their lives and hearts in a foreign land, opting instead to marry women who were considered more socially acceptable and aligned with the expectations of their peers. This societal norm adds a profound layer of emotional complexity to Susannah’s experience, forcing her to grapple with complex feelings towards her father—she loves him dearly, but she misses her mother, who was left behind in India. Interestingly, although Frederick sympathises with Susannah, he, just like Susannah's father, did not marry Ruperta's mother.

"Lord Frederick’s Return: A Regency Novel" by Catherine Kullmann is a masterfully woven tale that captures the essence of the Regency era with its enchanting narrative and captivating characters. Each page immerses you in a world of elegance, social intricacies, and heartfelt emotions, making it a delightful addition to your library.

I Highly Recommend.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club

[Aliraluna]

Lord Frederick's Return tells the story of Lord Frederick Danlow and his four-year-old daughter as they journey back to England after living in India for the past 18 years. During his stay in India, Lord Frederick took an Indian woman to be his lady, but after she died in childbirth, he found himself with a motherless daughter and could no longer find comfort in the country following his partner’s passing. Thinking of the best scenario for his daughter, he decides to take a six-month journey by ship to return to his home country.

Without any current connections in England, he accepts an invitation to stay at Ponsonby Place, the home of Colonel Jack Ponsonby, who also lived in India for many years. Upon arriving, they notice that the Colonel and his daughter, Susannah, have made accommodations within their household to somewhat resemble their time in India. Each day that Lord Frederick and his sweet daughter Ruperta spend in the Colonel’s home, the closer he feels to the old man and his gracious daughter. He realizes not only that he has found the help he needs to ensure Ruperta receives a proper education and upbringing for her new life, but also that he might be in need of a lovely, smart, and understanding wife... and that woman might just be Susannah.

This Regency story features many daily aspects one might expect from the lives of the ton: visits from faraway, unknown travelers, dinner invitations, games, and helping other families. I particularly loved learning about the complex process of acquiring the necessary resources and materials to provide a proper education to a young girl of means. Additionally, it is very interesting to see the social implications for people returning from India—especially those who bring partners or children with them. Sadly, such families were often not accepted and were poorly received by society.

The writing is superb, the author shows her craft with how beautifully the story was written. The characters have great depth and personality—I will remember them for sure. The story moves slowly, which is why I was a bit surprised it took me so long to read, especially given that the book isn’t very long. But I believe that’s because the story focuses more on daily life than on major events.

I was not expecting the turn of events when Frederick visits his brother. I found it a bit jarring for the tone the story had established. Perhaps if there had been undertones or foreshadowing leading up to that moment, it wouldn’t have caught me so off guard. I wasn’t bothered in the sense of annoyance, more that I didn’t know how to react to it. I understand that [the event] serves as an effective catalyst for what follows, but I wish it had played out a little differently.

Lord Frederick, Susannah, and Ruperta are so lovely together. I am very happy with how the story ended—a beautiful scene for their future together. Superb writing for a lovely Regency period romance.

Thanks to NetGalley and the author for this copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Merissa (Archaeolibrarian)]

LORD FREDERICK'S RETURN is a standalone novel, although with links to different books, that details the differences between India and England when Frederick returns to English shores after a long absence.

You don't see much of his time there, but then the title tells you it's not set in India! What you do see is enough to know about his life there and the reasons he has for returning to England. The uncertainties he faces are understandable enough, and it made perfect sense for him to visit someone who was in the same position.

This was a very genteel story, with plenty of historical details, rules, and regulations that helped to emphasise how different things are now. I wish I could say it was all different, but some attitudes seem to be the same, no matter where you live.

Frederick and Susannah are both well-written characters, although I have to say Ruperta steals every scene she is in. Frederick's close family, or most of it, are lovely, but there's always one or two. I would have liked to have known a little more about the newfound family and if anything came of their machinations, but that may just be me being greedy.

It finished with a delightful ending that I wasn't ready for! I do hope these characters will appear in future books, even as cameos. A great story that I definitely recommend.

** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 29, 2025

[Raymond Thompson]

1816. After the death of his Indian bibi (mistress) in childbirth, Lord Frederick finds ‘India had lost its savour’ and decides to take their daughter home to England. But how will he adjust to conditions there after so long an absence? And how will his precocious four-year-old daughter be received? Despite the traumatic experience of attending the sensational trial at which his younger brother is found guilty of murder only to die of a heart attack in the dock, and the social stigma it attaches to his family, Frederick adapts pretty well, thanks in no small measure to the kindness and support he is fortunate to receive from new-made friends and some family members; and he finds love again with Susannah Ponsonby, whose mother was Indian. Aristocratic males have definite advantages, especially since ‘sufficient funds may compensate for all manner of deficiencies.’

But while the more open-minded are charmed by his daughter’s outspokenness, sticklers for convention consider it a sign of ill breeding. At the vicarage sewing circle, ‘where ladies from both sets traded polite barbs while plying their needles for the benefit of the poor,’ Mrs. Lowe declares, what else can one expect of those who are not only half-castes but illegitimate? This is a thoughtful and involving exploration of the challenges that faced expats and their children after an extended absence abroad, and the incisive satire against the snobbery, prejudice, and double standards which threaten progress towards the happy ending is a delight. Highly recommended.
https://historicalnovelsociety.org/re...

[Elizabeth John]

Lord Frederick’s Return by Catherine Kullmann is a warm and thoughtful Regency novel, filled with fascinating historical detail that makes the Georgian world feel alive and authentic. For readers less familiar with the period, the careful attention to social customs, settings, and manners provides an endlessly engaging glimpse into another time.
Lord Frederick himself returns to England after nearly two decades abroad, bringing with him his young daughter, Ruperta. Born in India to a Hindu mother, Ruperta’s position as an outsider makes for some poignant and tense moments, as she faces the prejudice of English society. Yet her innocence and spirited nature win over those around her, particularly Susannah Ponsonby, the gentle and understanding daughter of a family friend. Frederick’s romance with Susannah unfolds with grace and restraint, and Ruperta’s affection for her potential stepmother becomes a tender thread in the narrative.
Though the novel moves at a gentle pace, it does not lack for drama. The prejudices of society, financial intrigues, and even a trial bring tension and suspense. And just when you think you know how the story will end, an unexpected twist adds just enough adventure to satisfy those who crave a touch more excitement.
This is a novel to savour slowly—cosseting and comforting rather than filled with high drama. An excellent introduction to the Georgian world, it feels more modern in tone than classic Georgette Heyer, while still capturing the elegance and formality of the era.

[Anonymous 5]

This is my first experience reading something by this author and what a lovely, heartwarming Regency romance this turned out to be! It’s the perfect blend of tenderness, quiet passion, and just the right amount of scandal to keep things interesting.

Lord Frederick Danlow is such a refreshing hero. He is older, thoughtful, and carrying the memories of a life well-lived abroad. Watching him return to England, trying to build a home for himself and his delightful four-year-old daughter, Ruperta, is instantly endearing. (Truly, Ruperta might be one of the most charming little scene-stealers I’ve read in a while!)

Then there’s Susannah Ponsonby, a graceful, capable, and quietly strong woman. The connection between her and Frederick unfolds so naturally, full of small moments that build into something genuine and lasting. It’s not a whirlwind romance, but a slow burn built on understanding and respect, which makes it all the more moving.

And of course, just when everything seems perfect, scandal strikes! The way Frederick grapples with loyalty, love, and the weight of family reputation adds depth without ever feeling heavy. You can’t help but root for him—and for Susannah—to find their happy ending.

A tender, beautifully told story about finding love later in life, weathering storms with grace, and discovering that the heart can bloom again when you least expect it.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and BookGoSocial and am voluntarily leaving my review.

[Daniella Novakovic]

Having recently read another one of this author’s books, which I deemed exceptional, I was excited to dive into this one. However, it wasn’t quite what I was hoping for, sadly. While it was a relatively short read, the central relationship between the protagonists felt underdeveloped and mildly uninteresting. I understand that Susannah was meant to be a careful, serious character, but it felt like only Frederick had any real feelings, and any attempt he made to show his affections came across as… overbearing, honestly. It seemed fairly clear she wasn’t feeling the same way. This book also lacked the wordsmith quality and lavish descriptions I loved in the author’s earlier work. It was far from terrible, of course, but it didn’t meet the ideal I was expecting. That said, the original plot and strong, developed characters helped sustain it, and the author’s obvious and extensive research was definitely a plus. On the bright side, I also really liked George, Frederick’s brother, and thought it was hilarious that he was such an inveterate gossip, and the ending of the book, for reasons I shan’t spoil, was very, very cute. I’ll probably try another of this authors’ books to see if I connect more with a different one! Definitely give this one a try and see if it’s up your alley.

[Anne-Mammy]

It was immediately very comfortable to read Ms Kullmann's elegant prose . She builds up a view of mid 19th century England one immediately recognises, if, like me, you have read many Regency romance novels. The extra dimension of life in India broadens the scope and is entertaining. Exploring racial prejudice in "le beau monde" is only too believable, Little Ruperta is delightful.
i suppose it could be argued that apart from wanting to bring a final conclusion to Lord Henry's misadventures which started in a previous novel " A potential for love", that particular trope was not needed.
England is on the cusp of the age of steam and the rail revolution; There are many loose ends here which could fruitfully be taken up in a future novel: Susannah's return to India to find her mother using the new steamships, the fight over the property in Kent by the long lost cousins, the coming out of Ruperta and sociery's response to her mixed race heritage, railways cutting across the Rickersby or Danlow estates etc
I hope Ms Kullmann will consider these developments. As it is this was a very enjoyable read even if there were no major upheavals and the course of love runs unimpeded. i do warmly recommend it

[Bethany Swafford]

In August 1816, Lord Frederick Danlow returns to England with his young daughter, hoping to build a new life. He finds unexpected comfort and friendship in the home of Colonel Ponsonby and his capable daughter, Susannah. As his admiration for Susannah grows into something deeper, Frederick begins to imagine a future with her—until a scandal involving his younger brother threatens everything.

This was a highly entertaining novel. I loved how it was set in a time period I love to read about but brought something new to the genre. It was interesting how the author weaved in the realities of someone returning from foreign lands and how it would have affected the family around him.

The plot moved at a good pace, neither too fast nor too slow. The romance between Lord Frederick and Susannah was believable, and I was rooting for them to make a success of it. Part of me did wish there was more about the younger brother and his actions, but as a whole, the story stands complete.

Readers who enjoy a standalone sweet Regency romance novel will enjoy this one. I received an advance reader copy via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own.

[Alison]

When I see a new Catherine Kullmann novel is out, I immediately buy it immediately. She writes fluently and vividly so you can settle back easily to enjoy the story. Her research is impeccable; you are immersed in early 19th century life from the first page.

Some of the values and attitudes seem quite odd to us now. The social and sexual mores for young white men in British India seem harsh on local women and the children of such unions. However, Ms Kullman treads carefully but authentically through these, particularly in relation to race, colonial life and illegitimacy.

We are led into many aspects of life in these times, not only the graceful life in a country gentleman’s residence but the uncompromising court system at the Old Bailey, the discomfort and boredom of long distance travel as well as the equal discomfort of living in a draughty medieval castle in the north.

The romance is delicately developed, sensitive without ever falling into sentimentality. Both parties are perfectly aware of their social and material environment and the author navigates this step by careful step. Highly recommended!

[Kathleen J]

Fantastic attention to Regency detail

It’s clear that Catherine Kullmann does a lot of good research on this period. Though I have read, I know,hundreds of regency romances, this gives us some of
best accurate details of any I have read in a while. I enjoyed that greatly. She’s also a good wordsmith often using a less common word that fits the meaning exactly instead of just generally getting the point across. Another thing I love.

I liked the characters, especially the little girl, and I liked the fact that this is a little different with regency characters who have lived in India.

The story is a slow burn, closed door romance. I would think followers of Mary Kingswood would like it. The only reason I gave it four instead of five stars is I like something with a little more tension and a little more action rather than the slower burn romances. Nevertheless, I did enjoy it.

[Liv'n'Stories]

It's a pleasant, slow, entertaining enough regency romance.

It's very short (~200 pages) and quite abrupt in both action and emotion. I felt like watching a 1h30 film, nice, but too short to feel much attachement to characters or story. There's even a murder mystery set up but it's never really resolved.
It's a nice read if you like old school regency novels and/or in need of a quick and slower palate cleanser between heavier reads, but don't expect too much.

(I did puff at the audacity of both Susanna's father, for dismissing his indian mistress in such a manner; and Frederick, for being offended at the idea of having to choose between "spinsters and widows" as if he wasn't an almost 40yo man with an illegitimate child! Men.)

Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.

[Lisa H]

A return to England....

Lord Frederick is back in England, after a lifetime away in India. He married Jiya, had tow sons and a daughter. He became a widower when Jiya died after childbirth. But he decided to return to England with his young daughter Ruperta.

Susannah is a spinster, in charge of her brother's household. Her brother and Frederick knew each other in India, where they both made their fortunes.

I really liked that this was a book that featured slightly older leads, they have both lived their lives. It was also a book that incorporated India customs and words and shows the intermingling of the two cultures.
Recommend.

[Patrizia]

Che dire? Catherine Kullmann conosce bene il periodo storico, si documenta con scrupolo, affronta temi nuovi e originali (stavolta il romanzo è imperniato sulle 'spose di cortesia' dei coloni inglesi che si trovavano in India per ragioni militari o di affari, e sulle figlie nate da queste unioni)... ma i personaggi non convincono (soprattutto Ruperta, che non parla e agisce come una bambina di quattro anni!) e la storia si strascina seriosamente, senza brividi, senza tensione, senza passione.
E, per quanto si sia sempre felici di imparare, avrei voluto almeno svagarmi un po'.

[Kim Power]

A lovely romance

The novel is not entirely angst free, but the angst does not apply to our hero and heroine. Rather, it occurs within the extended family, shaping the actions of our protagonists. The world building is excellent, And the in the melding of British and Indian culture is very well done. It focuses the reader on the prejudices and assumptions of English gentry and mobility regarding other races. I enjoyed it very much.

[Lyn D Rose]

This was an engaging age gap regency historical romance with fascinating historical detail. I enjoyed this delightful story of a widower, a cheeky young child, a lovely young woman, a homecoming scandal, social prejudices, financial intrigue, and a warm love that overcame it all. I highly recommend reading!

[bibliolatry]

Can anyone explain why Frederick dotes on his daughter, but never mentions or even thinks about his twin sons?

“ With their twin sons, now young men of fifteen, suitably placed with the help of their grandfather….”

They were left behind in India? What was the point in even giving Lord Frederick other children? He seems to be a kind

[Courtney Pityer]

if you are looking for something that is a quick and easy read then this is the novel for you. it tells the journey ofba man named Frederick and the hardahips he faces after the death of his wife. Overall it is perfect if you are looking for something that is a quick and easy read!

[Lori A. Spaulding]

Catherine Kullmann's books are great

I find this author's Books so well written. I have a problem when I open one I can't put it down all day long until its finished. Engaging, interesting, and believable. Altogether wonderful.

[Laurie]

a rather charming romance with a Raj background, with a lively 4 year old, a gentle 30-year old, a murderer and several annoying racists and/or snobs. Oh yes, and a nabob.

[Eleanor]

Overall I really liked this book. I definitely recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction.

[MissKitty]

3.5

[Sybil Mcguire]

great writer

[Laura Thomas]

A very good story that deals with issues of how half caste children from Indian women and English men are perceived when brought back to England by their fathers. The living arrangements within the household for the women was harem like, women quarters that the father was allowed access to but no other males. In both cases the men did not marry their mistresses so the daughters were bastards, this story deals with this issue .

[Shaina]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Catherine Kullmann for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Lord Frederick's Return coming out July 22, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This is the first book I’ve read by the author. I’m obsessed with Regency romances. It was a short read. I was thinking it would be more like Jane Austen’s Persuasion. I wasn’t as into the story as I thought I would be. I would check out other books by this author though.

[Elizabeth Wood]

When Lord Fredrick returns from India with his four year old daughter. They have to accumulate to the English culture finding themselves lost in the endless customs England has. They find help and comfort with the Ponsonby Family who have been through the same thing. But will his and Miss Ponsonby friendship develop into more?

It is such a short novel only just reaching 200 pages. But the historical detail is emacculate and it is a topic not talked about much. How some mostly military men returned to England with children from Indian mothers. Furthermore I thought the characters were extremely well crafted, causing for a really interesting and gripping plot that although a lot happened was really character driven. I especially like Miss Susannah Ponsonby she was a very strong character, but in a really graceful and quiet way. Which isn't often seen in historical fiction, but the truth is that many women in that time weren't especially outspoken or out of the norm. I find it quite impressive that she pulled of a strong and interesting character that still had those characteristics. I adored her and also little Ruperta was adorable. The plot was varied having a lot of family drama, but also quiet domestic joys. The one things that I had is that I personally like it a bit better when there are more indicators in which time period it is. But you can see clearly see that it is a historical fiction. But that is just my personal preference, it wasn’t really troublesome.

Overall I really liked this book, it was really interesting. The historical fiction is good and the characters excellently crafted. I definitely recommend this book for lovers of historical fiction.