The Lily of Ludgate Hill

December 4, 2023
Grief and familial duty separate a couple, but a road trip brings them back together in Matthews’s sparkling third Belles of London Victorian romance (after The Belle of Belgrave Square). In December 1855, Lady Anne Deveril and rakish Felix “Hart” Hartford are on the cusp of engagement when Anne’s father dies and Anne, who fears Hart is frivolous and undependable, chooses to remain with her widowed mother over marriage. Six and a half years later, Anne is still too terrified of losing anyone else to let love into her life. Hart, meanwhile, is no longer a reckless youth, and when Anne comes to him to request he escort her and her superstitious mother to Yorkshire to check on a friend, he’s determined to win back her heart. Both face upheaval that strains their reunion; Hart is struggling under the weight of providing for a secret set of half siblings and balancing the needs of his mining company, while Anne is facing eviction from her home. Their beautifully fleshed out arcs offer a poignant portrait of the destabilizing effects of loss and the strength in forging a new life with the help of loved ones. The plot dovetails nicely with the previous two books while standing alone enough to be appreciated by newcomers. Historical romance fans are sure to be moved. Agent: Kevan Lyon, Marsal Lyon Literary.

June 1, 2024

Regency romance lovers will swoon over Matthews's third installment in the "Belles of London" series (following The Belle of Belgrave Square). This Regency romp follows Lady Anne Deveril, who may look dour and weak in her mourning clothes but is a fierce defender of those she loves. After her father's tragic death seven years earlier, she and her mother put on their black mourning clothes and began a long engagement with the spirit world. Anne isn't a lover of s�ances or spirits, but she'll do anything to keep her mother happy, even if it means losing her standing in society and possibly even the love of her life. Seeking a favor for a friend, Anne calls on Felix Hartford, a gentleman from her past. He agrees to help her, for a price. In return, she must accompany him to a house party at his family's estate. As Anne and Felix spend time together, the truth of unrequited love, hurt feelings, and family secrets come to light. The audio is delightfully narrated by Samuel Roukin and Elizabeth Knowelden, who deftly bring out the fun and growing sexual tension. VERDICT Fans of the "Bridgerton" series and Regency romances will be charmed.--Erin Cataldi

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