An adorable read! I enjoyed this a lot.

This regency romance fits solidly in the comfort romance category. It's got enough angst to keep the plot moving, but it's not to tense that you'll get really stressed out. There's more turmoil and conflict than a lot of proper romances I've read.

There were a lot of silly parts where the characters really acted like teens or young adults. I enjoyed these parts because I love seeing characters have moments of real joy and connection.

Absolutely LOVED this book. Roz and Charlie and Liza and Ben are just a dream, a perfect dream. Watching each of these characters grow and learn as Roz works through her list, with the help of Charlie, was wonderful. I absolutely need a front row seat to Liza's story in the future. Megan Walker, you've done it again! You have a fan in me for life!

Thank you to Netgalley, Shadow Mountain, and the author for my complimentary copy of this book. All opinions here are my own.

A good majority of us make lists every day. But how many of us can say we made a list of things to do or experience before we get married?

Synopsis:
Rosalind Newbury has accepted a marriage proposal from the Duke of Marlow. While she was a child, she made a list of ten things to do before getting married. Before she starts, she enlists the help from her very best friend Liza. Tagging along with Liza, is her cousin, Charlie, who is a down on his luck boxer who needs to fix his reputation.

As the three of them work together to finish the list, a friendship blossoms between Charlie and Rosalind. Soon Rosalind is wondering if she is making the right choice in marrying the Duke of Marlow. If she follows her heart, will she be risking her family's future? And can she stand to do that?

You'll love this book if you like:
* Life changing experiences
* Sweet unexpected FORBIDDEN romance
* Female Main Character who isn't afraid to be who she is
* A shirtless handsome man

I could not put this book down. I absolutely loved every second of it. The story had an original quality to it. I've never read anything like it before. The turning point towards the end had me feeling many emotions while everything was figured out. Another top read for me and it's only January! Highly recommend it!

What a lovely, lovely book this is. I loved it. Rosalind was wonderful. Her list was so fun and the reasons behind it were tender. And Charlie, I wanted him on every page. Liza was also great. There was also a character that was introduced near the end of the book that I enjoyed immensely. There were very sweet and very romantic moments I thoroughly enjoyed. I smiled a lot, laughed a lot and even shed a couple tears while reading. The author did a wonderful job with the relationships of the characters. Ros’s brother Ben and Liza were perfect examples of this.

I would happily read another book from this author.

An entertaining sweet regency romance, friends to lovers, with likable characters and lighthearted banter. Slow-burn romance that's worth the wait.

Englan 1820. Rosalind Newbury is counting down the days until her wedding to the Duke of Marlow, a man she has only met twice, and she knows exactly how she wants to spend her time. As a child, Ros created a list of ten things to do before her wedding day... Meeting Charlie wasn’t on her list.

The romance builds throughout the book, a combination of the list, the friendship, and the romance. They each want a life of adventure and fulfillment. The writing is captivating and will have you giggling and swooning.

Ros and Charlie are a very unlikely pair, I loved watching them realize their feelings as they both struggle with knowing themselves, and their place in the world. The character growth was wonderful to see throughout the book.

.action and adventure
.forced proximity
.family bond
.forgiveness and redemption
.swoony kiss scenes

Recommended for fans of closed-door regency romances. clean-some kisses but nothing further.

#MissNewburylist #NetGalley

Thanks to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the eARC. All opinions are my own.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Miss Newbury’s List is another sweet Regency romance from Megan Walker. It utilizes some familiar tropes, and does them in a way that I really enjoyed. For one, after a couple recent/upcoming releases I felt misused the list concept as a framing device or character builder, I liked how the titular list Miss Newbury creates was applied here. It helps create the blueprint for Ros and Charlie’s boundary-pushing romance in a cool way.
I’m also just happy for a duke as the villain, instead of the hero (although that archetype is much less archetype in chaste romance circles). I did foreshadow the rather nefarious turn he took, but I like that it created complex, high stakes for Liza to work through.
As for Ros, I admire her dedication to trying to do the honorable thing and fulfill what her family wants, even if her own desires don’t entirely align. I also admire her desire to do something a bit daring and live life for once before being resigned to her new life as a proper duchess.
I also love that, while her family are generally proper society people who are interested in social and financial betterment, they do genuinely love their kids and are willing to take a hit to their social standing for the sake of their happiness. Given how awful the Duke turned out to be, I’m glad Ros didn’t also have tyrannical parents.
Charlie is a wonderful hero, and I love how organically his and Ros’ relationship developed from their initial meeting and through their various adventures as he helped her fulfill different tasks on her list. I like how well they complement each other in their respective desires: her wanting to experience life, and him wanting to reform and change, as well as prove his own worth of his familial legacy.
This is an enjoyable read that provides a delightful spin on familiar tropes. I would recommend it to fans of chaste/no-sex historical romance.

I really enjoyed this story. It was fast paced, sweet and fun with a dramatic twist at the end!

Rosalind was 12 years old when she made her list of 10 things she wants to do before she gets married. Over the years the list was forgotten, but it’s now 3 weeks till her wedding with a Duke, a man she’s only met twice. She enlist the help of her best friend and her best friend’s cousin to secretly check off the things on her list. Should be simple, right? Learn how to swim, run away for the day, change someone’s life…

This book was really fun to read. Rosalind has a bit of a rebellious spirit that gets her in some crazy situations. Mysterious Charlie is right there with her, sometimes leading the way on these wild adventures.

I loved Rosalind’s story of choosing love over duty. And I always love when there’s a supportive family!! Charlie was a great MMC. He’s hiding from his past and his future. I loved his journey of accepting forgiveness and stepping up to new roles in his life. These two have a sweet, heart warming love story.

There were a few times I found myself wondering if young woman in regency times really would have acted this way. Maybe they did, maybe they didn’t… It was still an entertaining read!

This is a clean romance.

Thank you to Netgalley for this eARC. All opinions are my own

The Heart Worth Stealing by Joanna Barker is a fun read that hit all the right places. There is witty dialogue, a puzzling mystery, and a budding romance with just the right amount of tension. I enjoyed watching Ginny and Jack's relationship change and grow, and I loved that Jack wasn't too serious. Overall a great read!

I am a mix of emotions after finishing this book, in the best way possible. It’s not often that a book can lead me to tears and boy did I cry. Happy tears, of course. Charlie and Ros (Rosalind) were so entirely adorable that I couldn’t even handle it.

This is going on my list of favorite books. Top book of the year, absolutely. Just…gah. So absolutely perfect and raw and sweet that I am planning to read through my favorite bits again to experience those emotions a second time through , even though I now know what happens.

As a reader, I always wonder what goes through an authors mind when writing a novel. How can you give the characters depth, while still successfully taking a reader through a journey full of positivity and growth without being a total downer? It seems like a very specific formula that takes a lot of skill and heart and people, Megan Walker blew it out of the water with this one. I am so in love with everything she wrote and the characters. 😍😍😍 All of them. I’m just praying there will be more to come. There’s a certain brother who needs a story of his own and I’m hoping he ends up with this specific someone that I cannot name. 🤞🏻🤞🏻

Favorite scenes because I can’t not share them.
Anything with Charlie in it!!! Just 😍.
The alcove and then the eye contact following it the next day
The morning Ros tagged along with Ben
The family’s study scene
Eloise and everything that came out of her mouth
The completed list
The empowering quotes
Basically, the entire book

This was like sooo good. Absolutely fabulous!!

Let me just start off saying that I adored this book. Such a creative concept that characters were so much fun. This book takes us on an adventure as Rosalind decides she needs to complete a bucket list before marrying a duke (who she barely knows, but will be good for her family). When her best friend's cousin comes on the scene, he agrees to help her finish up this list before the wedding. The list is so much fun and I loved watching all the items be checked off. I enjoyed watching the characters juggle the emotions of family duty and personal desires. Truly a fun read. Clean and in the end leaves you feeling wonderful. I don't normally do 5 stars on a romance, but it was such a joy that this one gets the full 5.

Thanks to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This book gave me all the feels and more! It was so emotional, with complex characters and an engaging plot that had me reading it into the wee hours of the morning. It quickly became clear it would be ranked at the top of my reading for this year, if only because I was in the middle of happy tears when it ended. Now you may be thinking that this might not be the read for you if only because of the lack of spice, and maybe that's true. However, I can tell you that I barely missed the spice amidst the longing glances, sexual tension, and the almost-kissing that occurs several time throughout the story. Sometimes it's the edging of a slow burn that keeps me reading and wanting to see how it turns out in the end. If you're new to the Proper Romance collection, this is an excellent place to dive in and experience what a great spice-free romance can be. Definitely one of my favorite reads within that collection to date, and I have read many.

Rosalind Newbury traded her future happiness for her family's security and prospects by agreeing to marry the duke. Having only met him a few times, she certainly didn't love him and couldn't say if she ever would. Never having a London season secured her hand with his, and now she only has a few weeks to complete her pre-marriage bucket list of sorts. But a future duchess certainly can't be caught doing many of the things on her list, like learning to swim or hanging her art in a public place, and trying to complete it without the help of her best friend will be near impossible. The trouble is that her friend returned home from the season accompanied by her wayward cousin, Charles Winston, a boxing hobbyist in the midst of his own little rebellion. He decides to help them, and soon the trio check off each item on the list. All the while Charles and Rosalind are growing closer...as is Rosalind's wedding. Will Rosalind be able to forsake her family's plans for her future for the one thing the duke could never give her - love?

I laughed, I sighed, I held my breath...the emotions that ran through me were all over the place as I read this story. Rosalind was so brave and confident in herself, while also trying to desperately hold onto her dignity, knowing who she would become upon marriage. Charlie was the perfect companion for her, seeing as how he didn't care what anyone else thought of him and just wanted to escape his own future as his family's heir. The moments between them were heartfelt and soul-catching. The author did an amazing job showing their character growth through each chapter, and by the time things came to a head towards the end of the book, it was clear to me that both Rosalind and Charlie were not going to be able to stay away from each other. Although Charlie, wonderful man that he is, was willing to sacrifice his own happiness to keep her safe, and that was really the moment I fell in love with him. There were lots of little moments before then, where you see Rosalind slowly lose pieces of her heart to him. But when he allows her to decide her future, even if it didn't include him, I was just bawling in front of my ereader. I also loved the two main side characters, Rosalind's brother Ben and her friend Liza, who added hilarious commentary and showed a family dynamic that made everything feel so real. I wanted to read it all over again as soon as I had finished.

This was my first book by this author but certainly will not be my last! I couldn't have asked for a more enjoyable read.

I know a lot of people who wrote a list of traits they'd like to have in a future partner, but I like Miss Newbury's idea of a list of things she wants to do before becoming a spouse better. Rosalind is such a loveable, quirky character and I loved reading her journey of finding out what she really wanted in life and being brave enough to go after it. I had my doubts about the possibility of a Happily Ever After, but I found the ending 100% satisfying.

Miss Newbury’s List by Megan Walker

It’s early in the year but I can already tell this book is going to make the favorites list. This story is beautiful and heartfelt, filled with joy, sorrow and working through your past to come out a better person.

Rosalind has a list of things she wants to accomplish before she weds. It’s been tucked away for years and it isn’t until two weeks before her wedding to a man she barely knows that she pulls it out. Talk about a procrastinator 🤣. In her defense she was waiting for her best friend to come home.

When she flees to said friend’s house, Liza’s, to enlist her help she is met with resistance from the butler, only to learn that the family is hiding Liza’s cousin, the black sheep of the family. If Rosalind’s wants her friend’s help, she must first convince the cousin, Charlie to tag along.

Rosalind and Charlie are two souls cut from the same cloth. They each want a life of adventure and fulfillment. Their chemistry on the page is palpable and you can’t help but root for them.

Miss Newbury’s List plays out so well. Walker’s writing will hold you captive, make you swoon, giggle, and sigh. It’s a historical romance you will want to read again and again.

Read if you like:
🥊 awkward meet cutes
🥊 adventure
🥊 swoony almost kisses
🥊 the best kind of pining
🥊 strong familial ties
🥊 relatable characters

Content: fist fights, attempted kidnapping, a main character is stabbed, kisses

Such a delightful read! I loved this author's debut novel and was so excited when this books was announced. I was happy to get an early copy to read and I dove right in and loved it!

I love watching characters grow and learn and become better than they were. Even if it isn't a big change, I love seeing them overcome an obstacle or become better at something they didn't necessarily know they were needing to grow at.

Rosalind loves her family deeply and is marrying the Duke of Marlow soon. She wants to be like her aunt and accomplish the items on a list before she marries. She takes matters into her hands and sets out to do just that. Some of the items she has no idea how she will manage them but she's determined. She thinks it will help her. And it does. But not necessarily how she imagined it would.

I loved the great connection of family and friendship throughout this book. Ros has the love of many, even if she doesn't quite see it at first. They are so supportive of her and want her to be happy. It was fun to watch her navigate relationships, her list and the big list of wedding to do before the big day. Sometimes her antics had me chuckling and sometimes she had me holding my breath in anticipation of what was about to happen.

Liza, Charlie and Ben make for great conspiratorial companions. Even if they don't always know they are part of her schemes and plans. I loved watching the dynamics between all of these characters.

There is a sweet romance that builds throughout the book. And I love how the combination of the list, the friendships and the romance, Ros comes to a great realization. The ending left me very happy. As did the middle and beginning! All of it was wonderful! I can't wait to share it with all of my friends when it becomes available!!!

Content: Clean. Some moments of mild peril but nothing overly graphic. Some kisses but nothing further.

I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Happy Reading!!!

What a delightful, touching, witty romance. I loved every chapter, every character interaction, literally everything about this book. The concept of Rosalind's list set up the perfect plot; there were lots of opportunities for her to spend time with Charlie, lots of tension, and the pacing was quick enough to continually capture my attention.

The romance really shines through in this book. Even though Rosalind is engaged to a duke, you can see her journey in figuring out what she really wants, especially as she spends more time with Charlie. He is the perfect rough-and-tough Regency guy with a cute soft spot, and their conversations melted me into a puddle.

I also loved how this book wasn't super predictable. It went in directions I did not expect, and I was STRESSED at the end. But it has a beautiful ending that made me feel all warm and fuzzy. This is definitely one of my favorite regency romances now.

Writing Aesthetic/Style: 5
Plot/Movement: 5
Character Development: 5
Overall: 5

Thank you, Shadow Mountain, for the arc!

Trigger/Content Warnings: kisses, fighting violence, near drowning

I thoroughly enjoyed Miss Newbuy's tale, even if most of the time I was wondering how on earth she was getting away with the things she was doing. The situations and characters kept me laughing. The author kept me guessing about how everything would eventually work out. The situation seemed impossible. There are some supporting characters that clearly need their own stories. Ben, Miss Newbury's brother, and Liza, her best friend, come to mind. I am delighted to find a new author that I enjoy and look forward to more!

Absolute perfection! Ugh, Charlie Winston is perfection. Ben is the perfect brother. Liza is the bestest of friends. Rosalind is the best of daughters. Mr and Mrs Newbury are the best of parents. Charles family is the best of the best. The Duke of Marlow is the worst of the worst. Such a fun, unique Regency romance. Will definitely be screaming about this one from the roof tops! The slow burn was almost painful, but had the best payoff at the end. Megan Walker is a mastermind!

Thank you to Shadow mountain for allowing me to read an advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and unbiased.

Miss Newbury's List is a captivating, enchanting and breathtaking Regency story about family, true love, following one's heart, redemption and honour. Oh, how I loved its sweet romance, lively adventures, flawed characters and escapism! Author Megan Walker deftly paints beautiful literal and figurative landscapes with words.

Rosalind Newbury is betrothed to the Duke of Marlow, a man she scarcely knows. The marriage would ensure financial security for her family and land for the duke. And she is unhappy. Inspired by her aunt Alice she draws up a list of ten things to do before marrying so she discovers her true self. Her list is varied and interesting and she shares it with her dearest friend Lizzy. Meeting Lizzy's cousin Charlie turns her world inside out. The two grow as individuals first (he is not proud of his past) and then together. But what of the duke?

Categorized as appropriate for all readers, this novel is refreshingly wholesome, perfect for my mom and young nieces and anyone who seeks charming romance.

My sincere thank you to Shadow Mountain Publishing and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this utterly delightful book. Pure joy!

“This did not feel like a near-scandal anymore, nor mere friendship. It felt comfortable. Too comfortable. And I wanted it to be real.”

Rosalind Newbury is marrying a Duke in mere weeks and has one thing in mind. She must complete her list of ten items she wishes to do before she marries. With the help of her friend, Liza, and Liza’s cousin, Charlie, Rosalind sets out to do just that. Some items are easy. Others more difficult. Each give her a sense of freedom and change her. But will the biggest change bring heartache or joy?

I loved Miss Newbury’s List! The idea of a bucket list before getting married is such a fun idea. The items on Rosalind’s list range from completely crazy to personal and heartwarming. Having a daring and adventurous Charlie help in completing the list only makes it more fun.

The relationship between Charlie and Rosalind is my favorite. I loved their banter and the looks that they would give each other. Rosalind learning to trust Charlie more and more makes for great moments between them and for the reader.

My only complaint is not having enough time with these two. I loved the book and it wrapped up nicely but having Rosalind and Charlie as real life friends would be so fun! Adventures and laughter would abound!

I adore Megan Walker’s work so I was excited to read Miss Newbury’s List. It did not disappoint! If you love a forbidden love, making dreams come true and swoony moments, this is the book for you.

Thank you NetGalley and Shadow Mountain Publishing for the advance e-book. These opinions are my own.

This was a sweet, fun regency romance. However, it wasn’t enough to completely capture my attention. I found as I read that I didn’t really care for any of the characters, and there were moments in the plot, or something someone would say or do, that just didn’t work for me. I do think plenty of regency romance lovers will enjoy this book, so I’d say give it a try.

Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for an e-arc!