I had already read the British paperback publication (yes, I am a Lex Croucher stan and have their books shipped to me from overseas) but I was curious about the audiobook! Thank you NetGalley for the ALC so that I could enjoy this story again in a new way. Even though I already loved this book, I think Ell Potter’s narration added a whole new dimension! Sometimes audiobooks are even more enjoyable than written because they give you that extra something for character details, and I think this is one of those occasions.

Although I assume everyone is tired of me raving about Lex Croucher’s books by now and I’m hardly an unbiased opinion, damn. I can’t help it and I’m not sorry! They really do deserve it.

While this book didn’t quite gut-punch me the way Gwen & Art Are Not In Love did, it was a textbook-perfect Regency romance: precocious children, a hunky closed off sea Captain, a crew of diverse and lovable staff, and of course, our Hot Mess Express heroine who really has a heart of gold under her prickly exterior.

I think a few things are going on in Trouble that make it special, a step above. First, the discussion and focus around chronic illness (especially in Regency times) was incredibly important and refuted / highlighted harmful stereotypes around chronic illness, especially for young women.

Second, the discussion of power, class, and privilege felt very grounded and real. Emily’s reservations around Captain Edwards, and all of Fairmont House generally, felt achingly human and actually addressed inequality in a way that didn’t feel completely flippant. She’s bitter and she should be! There were also many moments where ideas of “womanhood” and “femininity” were called into question, and pushed back against this pervasive Western idea about women always being in the domestic sphere; the reality is that poor women have always had to work hard to survive.

Third, Lex’s take on historical diversity is always refreshing and needed. The focus on gender and sexuality in this one made my heart sing and was such a beautiful reminder that queer and trans people have always existed, even when it wasn’t so easy to see us.

All in all, I highly recommend this book!

Trouble is a fun regency romance that reminded me a lot of The Sound of Music, which was one of my favorite movies growing up, so this is definitely a win in my book. I absolutely loved Emily and Captain Edwards and I found the kids to be so cute and enjoyable.

I read "Gwen and Art are not in love" and thought it was only mid - but this is a triumph from Croucher. Emily makes a really fun protagonist - much better than here sister would have made. Her minor thefts are fun, and I liked watching Emily grow throughout the book. I think Croucher does a really nice job of developing the emotional heart of the novel - the relationship between Emily and the kids. I'm lukewarm on the Captain though.

"Trouble" by Lex Croucher is a delightful and witty contemporary romance that captures the essence of young love and the chaos that often accompanies it. Set against a vibrant backdrop, the story follows a spirited protagonist who finds herself entangled in a series of misadventures that lead to unexpected connections and personal growth.

Croucher’s writing is sharp and humorous, filled with clever dialogue and relatable situations that resonate with readers. The characters are vividly drawn, each with their own quirks and complexities that make them feel authentic. The chemistry between the protagonist and her love interest is palpable, creating a tension that keeps readers invested in their journey.

The narrative skillfully balances humor with moments of emotional depth, exploring themes of self-discovery, friendship, and the trials of navigating relationships in a tumultuous period of life. Croucher’s knack for creating engaging plots and memorable characters ensures that readers are thoroughly entertained from start to finish.

Overall, "Trouble" is a charming and engaging read that will resonate with fans of romantic comedies. Lex Croucher has crafted a story that is both lighthearted and meaningful, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a fun escape into the world of love and laughter.

I enjoyed this Regency romance so much! Trouble by Alex Croucher is a queer historical rom-com, featuring Emily Laurence, who has come to Fairmont House, impersonating her sister Amy as governess.

The audiobook narration was great, and truly captured the characters and friendship.

*many thanks yo Macmillan Audio and Netgalley for the gifted copy for review

I tried to start this book several times and finally got into it. Trouble by Lex Croucher is a Regency-era romantic comedy with a feminist and queer twist. Emily Laurence, posing as a governess to help her ailing sister, lands herself in "Trouble" when she starts forming unexpected attachments to her charges and their father, Captain Edwards. I found the character development to be the highlight of the story. Emily’s growth, especially in her relationship with the children, was particularly enjoyable. The audiobook narration added another layer, bringing the characters to life with distinct voices and energy. However, the pacing felt so slow at times, and some characters came across as difficult to like. Despite the slower moments, the wit, emotional depth, and unique twists kept me invested.

A very entertaining and enjoyable story! I listened to this as an audiobook and enjoyed the narration very much. The narrator did a lovely job of bringing the characters to life with her varying voices. Emily has come to Fairmont House as a governess, impersonating her sister Amy who has fallen ill. She had no choice , as her family's finances are quite dire and they couldn't afford to let such a position go. While Emily has come under the guise of governess, her plans are to take a few trinkets and valuables here and there and sell them for money to help her sister. But as she spends more time with her charges and their father, she can't deny the attachment she is forming with them. In the end, she will have to decide whether to follow through with her plans and betray those she has grown close to and come to care for.
A delightful story with lovely characters - I especially enjoyed Emily's growth as the friendship between her and her charges developed. The story was lovely and I am glad to have had the opportunity to listen to it.
My thanks to NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy. This is my honest review.

An imposter governess with dubious morals gradually falls in love with her employer and the residents of Fairmont House. Excellent queer & chronic illness rep!

"Trouble" by Alex Coucher is a riveting audiobook that shines through its captivating main characters. The author expertly crafts protagonists that are both relatable and compelling, drawing listeners deeply into their journeys. The narration brings these characters to life, enhancing their depth and making their struggles and triumphs all the more engaging. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and their interactions are laced with wit, emotion, and authenticity. The plot, while solid and well-paced, serves as a strong backdrop to the character-driven story, filled with moments of tension, romance, and surprising twists. The vivid descriptions and immersive world-building add another layer of depth, making "Trouble" not just a story, but an experience. Overall, it's a must-listen for anyone who loves well-developed characters and a compelling narrative.

I liked this book a lot more than I thought I would! I did not care for Gwen & Art Are Not in Love, and I usually hate books about nonsensical lying, but something about this book really sold me. The side characters and goofy dialog were strong enough to override my ill-ease. I found the (not gothic) Jane Eyre/Sound of Music vibes to be fun and the banter to be genuinely funny. Trouble’s plot was significantly tighter than Gwen and Art's, which was my main complaint. I am glad to have not written off Lex Croucher.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley and publisher Macmillan Audio.

I feel awful saying this but Trouble really missed the mark for me. I enjoyed the narrators performance but even they couldn't save this one. One of my 2 stars is for them. I hate saying bad things because I went into this with such hope. Gwen and Art are not in Love was one of my favorite books of last year but this was painfully slow and most of the characters were unlikeable. I am interested in reading the authors next book about Robin Hood and that will probably determine if I pick up anything else by them in the future.

🎧Song Pairing: Trouble - P!nk

💭What I thought would happen:

I’m trying to deduce who of the 2 cover characters is the troublemaker😂 I’m guessing her because I like a mischievous minx

📖What actually happens:

Shit, literally > secret identity > governess > bratty kids > found family > sexy serious widower father

🗯Thoughts/sassy musings:

Every time I think regency romance lit isnt my thing (Bridgerton the show is the exception) but then Lex Croucher changes my mind every dang time!

If you like spicy dads that are stern then this is the book for you. & if you like a main gal who is badass with grey morals check it out 🩷

This was my final NetGalley to get to 💯 completion, I’d like to thank the academy 😂

**Note: I got a new phone and therefore lost access to this ALC months ago. I obtained the audiobook via my library so I could still provide a (very delayed) review. 💕

This is my second from Croucher and I just love their incorporation of queerness in historical settings (no matter how anachronistic). This one follows Emily, who takes a job as a governess that was supposed to belong to her sister (who's too ill to work). Unlike her sunshiney sister, Emily doesn't actually like kids... or teaching... Or much of anything, really. She's prickly, ill-mannered, and only took the job because her family needs the money (and she hopes to pocket some expensive trinkets before she inevitably quits). But before she knows it, Emily finds herself invested in this family, and must figure out a way to undo all the mistakes she made.

This secret identity / trading places romance is a loose and queer retelling of The Sound of Music. I actually didn't catch that until after I'd finished and read others' reviews, but I get it now! As the romance is incredibly slow-burn, this reads as somewhat of a historical fiction novel with a dash of romance. But I didn't mind that... I really loved Emily's character growth, the diverse cast of characters, and the high stakes plot line kept me engaged.

The narrator, Ell Potter, is a longtime favorite of mine. She infuses so much charisma and energy into her characters. I love her and she nailed the narration of this large-cast audiobook! The audio format most definitely added to my experience. 💕

4.5 stars rounded up. Thank you Macmillan Audio for my gifted ALC

3.5 stars

You can read all my reviews at Nerd Girl Loves Books.

This was a fun historical romance with a lot of diverse characters. Emily's sister Amy is sick and they don't have money for a doctor. So, Emily poses as Amy and takes Amy's new position as a governess at Fairmont House. But Emily isn't like Amy. She's not polite, she's not polished, and she has never taught a child in her life. She is, however, determined to make this job last long enough to get a few paychecks, and maybe a few trinkets to pawn, so Amy can get the treatment she needs.

But, despite her reluctance, she gets drawn into the Edwards family's drama. Grace is young and talkative and immediately takes to anyone that pays her attention. Aster is the complete opposite. She's surly and angry, but a witty and a talented artist. Emily is confused by the family and servants acting more like a family than master/servant, and doesn't trust that it's real.

I really liked all of the characters in the book. Emily is central to the story, and even her main love interest, Cpt. Edwards, is a side character. I can understand where Emily is coming from. She's never caught a break in life and has had to scrabble for everything she's gotten. She's tough, she's naturally suspicious of everyone's motives, and she keeps people at arm's length. It was fun seeing her growth throughout the book. It came on gradually and even when she did begin to soften, she still bristled at being treated kindly.

Cpt. Edwards was a swoon-worthy MC who treated everyone with respect and kindness. He looked past Emily's tough exterior and saw someone that cares deeply for her loved ones and isn't afraid to fight for what she needs or wants. The bi and transgender representation was wonderful to see in a historical romance. I think the casual acceptance by most of the characters is a bit unrealistic for the time period, but it's nice to think that could have happened. I marked this down 1/2 a star because the story really lagged in the middle and I don't like third act breakups. But, that's just me. Others may not be annoyed by that.

I was provided a complimentary e-copy and audio book from NetGalley and MacMillan. All opinions are my own.

I truly enjoyed listening to this audio. The storyline was beautifully delivered by the narrator! Would definitely recommend to another

I will not be rating or reviewing this title officially until SMP meets the demands of its readers. The one star rating is arbitrary considering Netgalley doesn't allow you to not rate the book.

This book was a love story within a love story and was so cute! Emily falls in love with the children as she falls in love with their father and it makes for an adorable happy ending for everyone. I hate the miscommunication/lying from the beginning of the book because it always makes me feel like something is hanging over my head while reading, but this book did a nice job of wrapping that up rather quickly.

Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this audio book.

This was a fun read, with characters you grow to love (especially the supporting characters!). I liked the comparison to Sound of Music. The narrator did a great job with this.

I thought Ell Porter hit the narration out of the water with Trouble by Lex Croucher. I enjoyed the depth of the characters, the emotion in their voice and the differences for each character, Thank you Macmillan Audio for the gifted ALC!

As always Lex Croucher writes another amazing, fun period piece to pull in queer audiences. To me their side characters are always amazingly written and I fall in love with them more than the main characters. They also continue to find narrators who do an amazing job. And I love a bisexual male mainish-character.

Thank you netgalley and Macmillan audio for an ARC