The pacing is too slow 

“Shakespeare was always the answer.”

All the stars! I absolutely adored this book! Jentry Flint has created a memorable, endearing, captivating sequel in her Brooks’ Brotherhood series. I loved this opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, delightful yet poignant Regency romance! There were not only funny, swoon worthy moments that I can’t wait to relive again, but also a bit of a gothic mystery which I loved.

Lord Henry Northcott has long admired Arabella Latham, his best friend’s little sister. From the first moment he met her and heard her quoting Shakespeare, he determined to read everything by the Bard just so he could understand her. But, two things preclude him from making his feelings known, she’s his best friend’s little sister, and the horrible scandal attached to his family that’s made him vow never to marry. Though he’s known as the Brooding Baron, there’s a witty, thoughtful, kind person hiding underneath his taciturn, grumpy facade and Arabella’s just the one to bring him out of his shell. 

Arabella’s answer to everything is found in Shakespeare. I loved her funny, mischievous, daring personalty. From her Twelfth Night escapade to her Battle game, to learning to drive a phaeton, I adored all her schemes. Like her parents’ and brother’s marriage, she wants to find her spark and marry for love. I enjoyed watching her fall for Henry and how she genuinely cared for him and wanted to help him. Henry has a dark past, yet Arabella’s unfazed by it and is willing to do whatever it takes to show him that she can handle whatever haunts him.

I loved Arabella’s & Henry’s romance. From their Shakespeare quoting to the billiard lesson scene, this book touched my romantic loving heart. Along with their swoon-worthy romance is the scandal attached to Henry’s name. Mental illness plays a role in this story and I appreciated the way the author portrayed those struggles in a realistic, sympathetic way. Asylums like Bedlam were horrific in the Regency era and while the author doesn’t shy away from some of the awful treatments employed, she does manage to draw attention in a respectful, non-graphic way. I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Stafford & Sarah and hope that we get more of their stories. 

Some of my favorite moments were: Henry’s inner voice, the witty banter, Bradbury’s friendship and antics, Beasty & Goosey, the phaeton ride, ironing a billiard table, all the Shakespeare quotes, and the infamous aquatic theater visit. 

Highest of recommendations! This is definitely a must read for Regency & gothic romance fans. Now I can’t wait for Mr. Bradbury’s story. Though it’s the sequel to Games in a Ballroom, it can easily be read as a standalone. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.