My plan to read more new authors is proving a success, as I have now discovered this terrific historical fiction author. I now need to figure out how to fit in her extensive back catalogue! Oh well, first world problems and all that.
My thanks to Rachel Gilbey of Rachel’s Random Resources for the tour invitation and for the digital advance review copy. You can read my thoughts below.
Synopsis
Bath, 1810.
Lord James Brotherton, the charismatic Earl of Avon, is wealthy, intelligent—and marked for death. His own cousin believes him an imposter and has enlisted corrupt lawyers and treacherous servants to remove him permanently.
Enter Sofia Brotherton.
Unconventional, outspoken, and entirely irresistible, Sofia turns James’s ordered world upside down. He falls for her instantly. She follows a week later.
As danger closes in, their growing attraction becomes both a refuge and a risk. With enemies plotting murder and passions running high, James and Sofia must fight for love—and survival.
A witty, action-packed Regency romance filled with intrigue, danger, and deliciously sensuous tension.
Review
The Earl’s Bride is an absolute treat! Set against the backdrop of Regency-era Bath, we follow the fortunes of Sofia Brotherton and her sisters in the aftermath of their father’s death. At the same time, Lord James Brotherton, their father’s distant cousin, finds himself inheriting the title and estate of the recently deceased Earl of Avon.
As soon as James learns the sisters are being forced into menial work to keep their home, Hill House, secure, he assumes responsibility and offers them a home on his extensive estate. This sets the scene for a series of rather delicious twists and turns that bring James and Sofia together against those who seek to undermine his inheritance.
I loved Sofia; she was feisty and determined. There was no chance that she would be taken as being shy and retiring. A skilled horsewoman, she pushed her own boundaries and wasn’t afraid to seek out excitement. Uninterested in the marriage mart within the Ton, she was a girl after my own heart. I especially liked her kindness and the way she insisted on keeping the young women in her care safe, despite her own uncertain future.
I initially found James to be rather arrogant and presumptuous. He made assumptions about Sofia and her sisters but soon reconsidered once he got to know her more. My opinion of him changed once I realised he was driven by kindness; this was evident in how he ensured the safety and care of his recently widowed sister and her children. As he became closer to Sofia, I liked him even more.
There are a couple of uncomfortable moments. The loss of one of James’s dogs and the language used to describe his niece. Of course, I appreciate that the latter was the way of the time, but it jarred with me. I do accept that any other words would have been inaccurate, so credit to the author for her authenticity.
The ending sets the stage for the next instalment, so it felt a little abrupt. I am now eager to learn what happens next.
Author Bio
Fenella J. Miller is a bestselling historical fiction author, known for her emotionally rich World War II family sagas, sweeping Regency romances, and Jane Austen-inspired variations. With over 100 novels published, she continues to captivate readers who love strong heroines, resilient communities, and heartfelt historical storytelling.
Fenella currently writes for Boldwood Books, where she has launched several beloved WWII series, including:
• The Goodwill House series, beginning with The War Girls at Goodwill House
• The Army Girls series, starting with Army Girls – Reporting for Duty
• The Harbour House series, introduced with Wartime Arrivals at Harbour House
She is also the author of the popular six-book Regency romance series, The Duke’s Alliance, which begins with A Suitable Bride. Her novels are praised for their authentic period detail, compelling characters, and uplifting themes of courage and love during turbulent times.
Born on the Isle of Man to a Yorkshire father and a mother of Anglo-Indian descent, Fenella brings depth and diversity to her storytelling. She previously worked as a nanny, chef, hotelier, and teacher—experiences that inspire her vivid, grounded characters.
Now writing full-time, Fenella lives in a peaceful village in Essex with her British Shorthair cat. She enjoys a close relationship with her son, daughter-in-law, and grandson, and continues to share powerful stories of women facing challenges with strength and hope.
Social Media Links
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