Believe in Me: A Humorous Historical Regency Romance

I enjoyed this well-written story and the travel descriptions. How tedious it must have been. As intelligent as they are, Augusta and Phinn needed a bit too much time to realize they complement each other wonderfully: Phinn's interest in architecture and Augusta's desire to study in Italy. There's a bit of a surprise (or not) for the characters and reader towards the end. I received an advance copy via NetGalley; this is my freely given opinion.

Lady Augusta Viviers had made up her mind that she would study at the university in Padua, Italy, and that was final. When she informs her brother, the Earl of Worthington who is also her guardian, and her mother of the fact, the former is livid, the latter distraught. Her brother somewhat comes around, but her mother insists Augusta must marry and forget her silly notions of higher learning. Lord Phineas Carter-Woods' brother, the Marquis of Dorchester, also wants Phineas to wed soon, to ensure that the title is secure. Phinn has no intention of getting married in the immediate future. But Helen, Phinn's sister-in-law, is determined to help the family cause, and she introduces Augusta, a scholar, to Phinn, an architect. Helen knows they will be perfect for each other. They are, but how could they ever reconcile their futures, so at odds with married life? Would they even want to alter their plans? The premise is not be the most original, but historical accuracy goes a long way in this sixth installment of The Worthingtons. As much as I love the series, the sheer number of characters is becoming a bit overwhelming. The series is looking more and more like a family saga than interconnected standalone novels. There are so many characters that it's hard to remenber who's what to whom. All the introductions and keeping up with everyone weigh down the narrative, and could easily discourage a new reader. If you feel it might be the case, do not worry too much about getting lost; simply concentrate on the main characters and you'll do fine. The romance between Augusta and Phinn progresses quite slowly, partly because they don't want it to happen.They, too, realise they are ideally suited, but the timing is all wrong. The story itself could have easily been a novella, were it not for the fact that the author treats us to our own Regency Grand Tour, as we leisurely stroll about in Paris, Germany, Hungary, Austria, before reaching Italy. Ella Quinn has done more than her homework: her knowledge of European culture and history is most impressive and her descriptions vibrant. It does take a long time for the romance to unfold, but the road to the happily ever after is a delightfully educational one. Augusta and Phinn are both very appealing characters, and I love that there was no unpleasantness of any sort; the romance is utterly charming. Ms. Quinn is her usual eloquent self, the dialogues are particularly witty, everything feels entirely genuine. In fact, in two instances, maybe even a tad too realistic. I was surprised that the "dangerous obstacles" of the book description consisted of little more than a rather bizarre episode towards the end. However, Phinn's grand gesture was worth the time it took to reach the destination, and made it all worthwhile. I give 3 1/2 stars

4.5 Stars Lady Augusta Vivers wishes to study at Padua but when her mother thwarts her plan to attend the only university in Europe that accepts women she is forced to agree to one London Season. Spending her time at parties proves an empty diversion—until she encounters the well-travelled Lord Phineas Carter-Wood. Phineas younger brother of the Marquis of Dorchester has studied architecture all over the world, yet Augusta is his most intriguing discovery yet. When he learns her cousins have offered a trip to Europe, he secretly arranges to join their party. For he is determined to show Augusta that a real union is a thrilling adventure of its own. I love The Worthingtons. The author not only writes a very good romance but she also does her research & it’s historically correct which is a lovely added bonus plus reading one of her books is like catching up with friends & acquaintances. She's built a lovely community of people through her Worthingtons series but also characters from her Marriage Game series also make the odd appearance. This book could well be read on its own but I love a series & this is part of a very good series. Phin & Augusta don't want to marry as they are both interested in travelling & studying but they are drawn together & find that they can talk to each other & not only about the weather. I found this to be a lovely romance of two people finding they are true soul mates & that they were in love was obvious to everyone else. No intrigues, no spies, no horrid parents just a lovely, lovely romance. My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read