Although this is the first Christina McKnight book I have read, I have several in my TBR pile. I have read some Amanda Mariel (Christina's writing partner for this series) offerings and enjoyed them. Set in the Regency period, the storyline takes a different approach to the boy meets girl and they fall in love theme. Alistair Price is rather overbearing, however he is responsible for his eight brothers and sisters since their parents are unable to join them in London. His main attention is on Adeline, the first to come out, and as ornery as they come. She rebels intensely against Alistair s heavy hand. This leads to Alistair seeking assistance from Lady Theodora Montgomery when Adeline escapes her locked room and disappears. Unknowingly, four friends have decided to compete in an archery tournament to raise funds for their beloved boarding school. Alistair is afraid Adeline's ways will ruin her, not only denying her a favorable marriage but will also reflect on the rest of the family. As Alistair is drawn in, he adds Theo to his responsibilities and eventually the other friends as well, but remains heavy handed when it comes to his family. As with other enjoyable stories this one does have a villain who is vying for Theo's hand. However, he is more of an undesirable than a villain, but a good character choice for this story. This is a very nice read and has three more books in the series, telling the other girls stories. Good reading.

Lady Theodora/ Theo wasn’t really a troublemaker but she was free spirited - a young woman enjoying studying and calculating and examining all kinds of things.It didn’t help when her brother sent her to Miss Emmeline’s School Of Education And Decorum For Ladies Of Outstanding Quality. Rather than learning needlepoint, painting, singing, playing an instrument, or how to serve tea when making small talk about the weather this school encouraged the students to explore their interest. After six years with her three roommates Miss Adeline Price, Lady Georgina, and Lady Josephine the young women excelled at archery and came to think of themselves as the Lady Archer Creed about to come out the four young women meet in London and decide to enter an archery contest to win some money to donate to the repairs at Miss Emmeline’s school. Theo is attracted to Alistair and he to her. But Alistair has to marry off all of his sisters before he can marry. Theo is confused about everything. But he is the devil Adeline complains about. Theodora and Alistair’s romance has a touch of scandal to it. Alistair feels overwhelmed with the care of his eight siblings all under the age of twenty. Lady Theo has always felt like an outsider, never fitting in with her circle of friends, her family, or society. Theo has a fascination with maps and wants to help develop better maps and use of topography. She also has a special ability to cut Alistair's frustration and anxiety over being responsible for his siblings. Alistair's father’s health isn’t good and Alistair has never been taught the ropes of being a Viscount.Alistair is not sure how to I handle Theo or deal with her.
I liked this story a lot. At one point you set on the edge of your chair waiting to see what will happen with Theo and Alistair and all his problems with his eight siblings. This was well written and believable. But it was difficult to keep track of everything going on. Also where was Theo’s older brother who was the head of the family and should be concerned about Theo. I liked how Theo could help calm Alistair. I thought they were sweet together. I also loved how the young women wanted to help get money to repair the school. I loved the characters and the ins and outs and I recommend.

Very different historical romance with the heroine loving archery.I loved the characters and thought the story was wonderfully told.

I received an ARC copy of this book from NetGalley.

I wanted to like this book. I liked the idea of it and I liked the hero's crazy family. But the heroine was very hard to like. In fact, I never did learn to like her. Part of the issue was that the author kept telling me what she wanted me to know about this story rather than showing me. Perhaps the author will be better in subsequent titles.

This is a well written romance with no great surprises.
The characters are entertaining and interact well.
I look forward to reading others in the series.

This was a very sweet and enjoyable romance. I really enjoyed learning about Theodora. She may have come off she and compliant but she was intelligent, fiesty, she had courage, and self-less. Her romantic interest may have come off as arrogant but he was willing to do what needed to be done for his loved ones. I thought they were perfect together! I also loved the archery angle. Having these women be intelligent and athletic was pure joy. A combination you rarely get in romance novels. I'm really looking forward to reading about the other three women's adventures!

*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

In an Oyster Shell - A most excellent and satisfying Regency romance.

The Pearls - Right from the beginning Theodora becomes a character that is vulnerable yet has spunk and you become excited to follow her through her story. The concept of her impeccable archery skills just by applying simple physics and mathematics is genius. At that time women are not known for their sharp mind, it is even discouraged. Having Theodora as an astute academically minded female makes for a great story.

The characters make this book the delectable read that it is. Theodora is more quiet and demure while her friend Adeline is outspoken, rash and determined. Adeline pushes Theodora into circumstances that she would rather avoid. It is pinnacle to the whole story. It also helps that her brother gets involved concerned for Adeline to avoid scandal so she can marry well. This puts Theodora and Alastair together more which becomes the romance of the story.

The romance is sweet and elegant with a touch of scandal which makes it more interesting. Alastair comes to Theodora time and again to find his sister Adeline who keeps disappearing. It is improper for a gentleman to be in the presence of a lady without being properly introduced to her guardian. Alastair takes the risk again and again to save his sister but ends up developing feelings for Theodora as well. It was everything a regency romance should be.

I felt as though it was a pretty straight forward storyline with just the one slight twist in it. The main focus throughout the book has to have been the romance, which in itself was a bit too insta-love for me. The group of friends were such an odd bunch, though it was nice to see the different personalities - although Adeline really could be a bit too arrogant and bitchy for me to like her - in the same friendship group - it made me think of the random mix of people that somehow become friends when put in a room together for long enough.

I think the main thing which enjoyed about the book were the few scenes that we get see Theo and her brother interact. Her brother was one of my favourite characters, in the way in which her encourages Theo to become the woman she wants to be, study what she wishes, and go where she desires. All the while fending off their mothers forceful hand and looking out for her without smothering her at all, he is such a contrast to all the other men we read about in this book.

An enjoyable quick story, but I didn't feel it was a unique or partially exciting read.

Theodora begins with her being scared to death having to show her intelligence and skills to a room full of future class mates for her introduction to Miss Emmeline’s School of Education and Decorum for Ladies of Outstanding Quality. This introduction determines with whom she will room while at school. The skill she selected was archery, never having shot a bow and arrow, but having read about it in a book at home and using an algorithm to determine the trajectory. Her roomies, also, have an interest in archery. Theodora’s roomies being Adeline, Jose and Georgie, with her nickname becoming Theo; these ladies develop a close relationship with a creed of friendship, loyalty and honor above all.

Adeline comes from a family of nine children, with the eldest Alistair entrusted with their care in London as his mother stays in the country to care for his father. Alistair, who when young was as much fun as any sibling getting into scrapes and mischief, has taken his new role seriously. The family is short on funds and it is important for each to make a good match with the girls having small dowries. Their reputations are important and his to protect. He is thwarted at every turn.

Lady Archer is the names the four friends determine to use while trying to win funds for Miss Emmeline’s school to make repairs. The ladies want their own daughters to attend the school and are concerned the school may not make it without their help. They practice archer in the park early in the day so no one will see them. Theo had not planned to actually enter any of the tournaments because she had plans to assist with map making, her personal passion.

When Alistair goes to her house looking for Adeline, she inadvertently not only leads him to Adeline and one of the tournaments, she ends of joining the tournament. Alistair is led a merry chase by his sister and Theo to keep him unaware of their reputation ruining adventures. To confirm his concerns a scoundrel blackmails Theo into a betrothal to keep the girl’s secret safe.

What follows is a hilarious adventure as Alistair tries to keep up with the four friends as he falls in love with Theo. Theo, Lady Archer’s Creed, is a delightful read with delightful characters and a great build up for future books. Thank you Net Galley for sharing this book in exchange for an honest review.

Theodora (Lady Archer's Creed Book 1) by Christina McKnight is a humorous romp through the Regency era of England.
Four friends formed a childhood bond through their school years that continues through their first season in London. Their mantra is friendship, loyalty and honor above all, but will their mantra carry them through the challenges of life into adulthood? Or will the challenges of adulthood leave their mantra behind as they face unforeseen obstacles?
Their love of archery brings these four young girls together, Theodora aka Theo, Georgina aka Georgie, Adeline and Josephine aka Josie, to form "The Lady Archer’s Creed". Through their love of the sport of Archery, they solidify their unbreakable bond, and each Lady brings a unique quality that adds to their unbreakable friendship.
First up in what promises to be an amazing four book series is....
Lady Theodora Montgomery....

This is the story of Theodora and Mr. Alistair Price, who is heir to the elderly Viscount Melton. He brings his eight siblings to London, one of which is his sister, the rebellious Adeline. Who is alsi one of the Lady Archer's Creed.
While the friendship of these four young ladies are more important than ever, will they be able to continue their mantra of friendship, loyalty are honor throughout their adulthood? Will love and desperation destroy all they hold dear? Will they be able to find their true love or give their lives to another, who hasn't gained their heart? This is only a few obstacles they will face.

"Theodora" is a delicious romp through archery contests, the facts of life, growing up, and facing events of the real world, including, possible scandal, finding love and a HEA.

Readers will find an intriguing story of friendships, romance and passion with some twists and turns. Ms. McKnight brings this story to life with her funny antics, her wonderful charactizations, her development of the background of these young ladies and her trueness to Regency London. A wonderful story, indeed! While "Theodora" has passionate kisses, there are no actual love scenes, making this a sweet Regency Romance.
Readers of Regency Romance, sweet romances, forthright young ladies, Lady Archery contests, and deliciously amazing stories, will enjoy Book 1, "Theodora" in this four book series. I certainly did! I think laughter is good for the soul, and must thank Christina McKnight for writing such a wonderful story! I especially needed this at this time in my life. Thank you Christina McKnight! ! A very enjoyable and satisfying read! I look forward to Book 2, "Georgina", can't wait to see what she gets into, and her adventures. Well done, indeed!!

Rating: 4.5
Heat rating: Mild with only passionate kisses
Reviewed by: AprilR

BUY BUY BUY ..... definitely a GOODREAD! Normally, I have been getting tired of historicals for they all seem the same. This one is unique! A heroine that is active in sports and a hero that allows that women can be intelligent. I was captivated. Put that with the story line that has humor and understanding and the series that is definitely going to be entertaining and you have a win win win book. I must say Christina McKnight has a wonderful way of capturing you within her stories. Her writing is descriptive and just holds you enchanted and wanting more. A unique story that well deserves a good read. Characters that will delight you with the honesty shown in their lives, as well as families that will be growing in the upcoming series. Laughter, love, passion and more.. What more can you ask for?
I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom

+Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review+

I really liked the storyline of Lady Theodora and her three friends - the Lady Archers - and the idea that they want to do something good for their old headmistress but ... I dont know. There were up from the middle too little dialogues and I kept skipping the descriptions and this rarely happens.

I liked Theodora and Alistair Price, soon-to-be Viscount Melton became a rigmarole over the chapters and I only wanted to know if Alistair will win Lady Theo or not.

The novel “Theodora” centres around Lady Theodora Montgomery, who has been schooled at Miss Emmeline’s School of Education and Decorum for Ladies of Outstanding Quality. Once there, she befriends three women, Lady Josie, Lady Georgie and Adeline Price. Over the years, the girls have excelled at archery and coin the term “The Lady Archer Creed” to describe themselves. Her friend, Adeline meets up with her to be presented for their first London season along with the other women. Together, they decide to enter an archery contest, in the hope of winning money to ensure repairs to their school. However, they realise that competing will be ruinous for their reputation, they decide to secretly attend the competition.
Adeline’s brother, who is heir to Viscount Melton, arrives in London with his eight younger siblings. He is determined to keep the family’s good name but faces a challenge with his sister and her antics. He and Leo form a close relationship soon after but it is far from smooth sailing for the couple.

Lady Theodora has two passions in her life, archery, a sport she enjoys with her three former school-friends and map making. Her brother unusually for the time, is supportive of her academic achievements, even going so far as to sponsor her in addressing gatherings at the British Museum. She has no intention of clandestinely taking part in an archery competition (regardless of the fact that the prize money would help with repairs at her beloved school) as the finals clash with her important meeting with the French mapmaker Cassini. However, plans change.....
I really enjoyed this story and hope I have the opportunity to read about Adeline, Josie and Georgie finding their love matches. I would have given this 5* if it were not for some historical inaccuracies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley. I was not compensated for my review, and I was not required to write a positive review. The opinion expressed here is my own.

Theodora is a fun, sweet and romatic historical romance which I received a free copy of from Barclay and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Lady Theodora is a cunning, smart and independent girl who went to boarding school with her three roommates and friends. Her story is a first in the Lady Archer's Creed series. Each of them bumps against the norms and treatment of women during their time where it is against the "norm" for women to study anything scholarly. Even most women think that a girl should be trained in the "womanly" arts like needlepoint and music. It is okay to practice archery as long as it is in private surroundings. A woman should never be seen playing at things that are for men in public. This goes against the grain for Theodora and her friends because they can think of no other way to raise the money to help their alma mater that taught them so many of the things they have come to love like science, math and sports. Of course, the men that sent them there are not quite aware of just what they were taught.

Theodora's brother, Cart is her champion. He pushes her to study and practice the things he sees she is just as capable, if not more capable, of excelling at like map topography. She studies with her brother who opens doors for her that most other women do not have opportunities to walk through. Of course, this goes against what her mother plans for her which is to marry her off to someone she feels is worthy of their level in society, or the "ton". I'm wondering if the ton is called that because the obligations it puts upon the members feels like carrying a ton on your shoulders.

Alistair has not inherited his title and is responsible for his 8 siblings, one of which is ready for her introduction to society and happens to be one of Theodora's best mates. Theodora spends a great deal of time bumping heads with Alistair, though he is more progressive in his thoughts for women also. He still works to protect his sisters' and his family's reputation in society. The constant run-ins have led to feelings that each had not planned on and the story shows that this is going to be a great series with a great kick-off story in Theodora.

At Miss Emmeline’s School of Education and Decorum for Ladies of Outstanding Quality in Canterbury Lady Theodora Montgomery became friends with Ladies Adeline Price, Georgina & Josephine and they’ll all be at her side for her first London Season. All the girls have become quite the archers known as the Lady Archer Creed, their more interested the archery contest to win some money to donate towards repairs at Miss Emmeline’s school than finding husbands.
Alistair Price is the older brother of Adeline and eight siblings and he’s determines to keep his family safe and free of scandal. He’s ready to present his sister to society when he finds out she’s been sneaking out to go to Whitechapel for an archery tournament. The ladies try to keep their identity and their quest secret, but Alistair catches Adeline sneaking out to Whitechapel. He’s now in a constant quandary as to how to keep her name out of the gossip rags at least until he can get her married off. Man do Theo and the ladies turn Alistair’s world upside down especially Theo. When she’s unmasked on the tourney ground she fears her identity will cause not only her undoing, but the downfall of her friends as well. With all their identity and reputations at risk will she agree to a loveless marriage Mr. Oliver Gladstone, a heartless man Alistair has warned her about or will she fight for the man who has won her heart Alistair. A great new series The Ladies Archer’s Creed from Christina McKnight.
I received an ARC copy from Net Galley in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

An entertaining read... Book One of the Lady Archer’s Creed series starts out in a most unusual way that will entertain the reader. This book involves four intelligent girls who meet at the School of Education and Decorum for Ladies of Outstanding Quality and become fast friends. I must admit this is the most unusual plot I have read in a while and it took me a moment to be fully present and enjoy the authors unique writing style.

Theo makes a great heroine and that she constantly uses her intelligence throughout the book is refreshing and enjoyable. There are times when she appears too naive for her age and then at the flip of a coin she seems too mature all in a good way.

Alistair truly has my sympathy. I am from a large family and it was as crazy as his so he has all my compassion as I was in charge of my siblings as well. His character is believable, annoying, determined and lovable.

Secondary character Adeline just annoyed me to no end. I can honestly say she is someone I would avoid like the plague as a friend but she worked for this group of friends and to draw her brother, Alistair into the story. Other secondary characters and part of the group are Georgie and Josie who though in the book are portrayed in a manner that does not make them standout. They are presented in a way that pulls the reader into wanting to know more about them though.

This story was so refreshing and I had a really hard time putting it down. I loved the strong female characters. Despite feeling like an outsider of the group, I really felt that Theo kept the group together and grounded. That was evident in the fact that she was willing to sacrifice her happiness for her family, friends and her love. Alistair was a true hero from the beginning. Although being viewed at times in a negative light, he really was a knight in shining armor and always seemed to be concerned with doing what was best for his family and his love. This story has me so excited for the rest of the girls' stories and I can't wait to see how Theo and Alistair are doing!

My review is live on Goodreads and Amazon.

Publisher's Description:

Friendship…

Lady Theodora Montgomery departed Miss Emmeline’s School of Education and Decorum for Ladies of Outstanding Quality to attend her first London Season—her three dearest friends by her side. With her sharp wit and skill on the archery field, Theo is far more interested in winning a large purse prize than securing a husband. But when she is unmasked on the tourney grounds, her face exposed to all, she fears her identity and days spent gallivanting around London will cause not only her undoing, but the downfall of her friends as well.

Loyalty…

Mr. Alistair Price, heir to the elderly Viscount Melton, arrived in London with his eight younger siblings in tow. He is charged with keeping his family name above reproach until the Season starts and his sister, Miss Adeline Price, is presented to society—though that proves far more difficult than Alistair ever expected when he discovers his rebellious sister climbing down the side of their townhouse and scurrying off to Whitechapel for an archery tournament. His focus remains on saving his family from the certain ruin and disgrace Adeline’s actions invited—until Alistair catches sight of another female archer, her arrow connecting with far more than the center of her target.

And honor above all…

With Theodora’s future—and that of her friends—in jeopardy, will she agree to a marriage devoid of affection, or risk everything for the man who won her heart?

My Thoughts:
This is book #1 of a new series. I was totally engrossed from chapter #1 of this book and can hardly wait for Book #2.
It isn't an unusual occurrence for young ladies to form a lifelong bond when they meet at school.
They are daughters of the aristocracy and have been sent to a girls school that is almost falling down around their ears. They concoct a scheme to help the head mistress continue to educate young ladies.
This is how this book and the series begins.
Lady Adeline's brother is trying desperately to care for his younger siblings while his mother takes care of his aging and ill father.
Enter Lady Theodora...
She is a friend that lady Adeline met while at school and because of her pet name, Theo, our hero mistakenly thinks his sister has a gentleman caller that he has not approved.
This is just the beginning of a riotously funny romp that ends in a previously unforeseen love.
I found this book and it's characters to be delightfully funny. The storyline and characterization is well developed and holds the interest of the reader.
I gave this book 4.5 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and 1 of 5 flames for heat. It is a clean historical offering with no actual sex scenes. There are just a few hot kisses and no more.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read and review.
This in no way affected my opinion of this title.

Christina McKnight is an Incomparable

This author knows exactly what she is doing when she writes a series about a group of four schoolfriends very different in nature but bound together by the common interest of a skill in archery. Theodora, the intelligent heroine of Book 1 of the Lady Archer's Creed series, is a lady it is easy to root for.

Alistair, the older brother of her friend Adeline? Not so much. At least, not in the beginning of the book. Yes, he's in a somewhat difficult situation with eight wilful younger siblings to manage; Adeline in particular is impossible... I have to say I didn't like her much in this book. Hopefully she'll improve somewhat in the rest of the series.

Alistair starts off being an overbearing ass to Theo, as she prefers to be known. Piqued at being beaten by her at archery (after he admits he hasn't picked up a bow for years) he actually has the gall to imply that he lost on purpose.

However, by the end of the book he has handsomely apologized, and admitted straight out to her face that she is the superior archer. Bravo, Alistair. I'm pretty sure that was the point at which Theo fell in love with him, though it had clearly been creeping up on her for a while.

Having read a few too many books lately where the hero starts off an ass... and finishes an ass, Theodora was like a breath of fresh air. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I'll be looking out for the rest of the series.