This is a delightful story that sweeps you into the heart of 1822 Brookeside, England, where love and friendship collide in the most unexpected yet charming way.

Jemma, a headstrong young woman, seeks help from her best friend Miles to navigate the delicate art of love and win the heart of a suitor. What she doesn’t realize is that Miles has been secretly carrying a torch for her for her for years, making his role as her guide in matters of the heart all the more bittersweet. The author did a good job of showcasing the emotional depth of Miles’s quiet longing and Jemma’s vulnerability as she discovers what love truly means.

I loved the way the author intertwines their friendship and the growing tension between them with grace and tenderness, creating a compelling dynamic that kept me hooked. Miles’s selfless devotion to Jemma is absolutely heart-melting, and the slow-burn romance that develops is wonderfully satisfying.

I listened to this as an audiobook and was completely drawn into the story. The narration was well done, bringing these characters to life, with voices that perfectly capture their personalities and emotions. You can feel the chemistry building between them, even as Miles struggles with his fear of losing the friendship they’ve cherished for so long. This is a story of unspoken love that grows between two people who have always been there for each other.
The novel is a perfect balance of sweetness, emotion, and a dash of tension. It is a truly captivating love story that will stay with you long after the final chapter.

I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dreamscape Select and am voluntarily leaving my review.

Always happy to find a new historical romance author, I jumped at the chance to listen to this audiobook, even though I hadn't read the first two books in the series. (I'm not sure I even realized it was a series when I picked it up.) The good news is twofold - it isn't one of those series where you need to have read the first books to avoid feeling lost, and I've added a couple more books to my ever-growing TBR list. This is a lovely best friends-to-lovers story. Jemma & Miles have been friends since childhood but she's now determined to marry, and wants him to help her make a particular man fall in love with her. (He's been chosen for her by the Matchmaking Mamas of the series name.) It doesn't go well, for a variety of reasons, not the least of which is that Miles has been in love with Jemma for, well, forever. It's fun to watch their friendship evolve - there's humor and charm and a nice cast of characters surrounding these two. The audiobook is narrated by the wonderful Mary Jane Wells, who's always a delight to listen to, as well as James Joseph, a new narrator to me but one I'll definitely look for in the future. Definitely looking forward to reading the first two books in this series.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Select for providing a digital copy for an unbiased review.

I love the Matchmaking Mamas series! Not just the Mamas working behind the scenes trying to help their children find love, but the delightful group of friends known as The Rebels.

Jemma Fielding made a promise to her grandmother to marry and fall in love. When she turns to the Matchmaking Mamas Society for help, she’s paired with the dashing Mr. Bentley, who appears to be an ideal suitor. Struggling to navigate the intricacies of courtship, Jemma turns to her best friend, Miles Jackson aka Mr. Romantic, for love lessons.

What Jemma doesn’t realize is that Miles has secretly loved her for years, making his role as her advisor painful as he helps her build a relationship with Mr. Bentley. Miles’ guidance is tender and selfless, while he's conflicted whether he should protect their friendship or confess his feelings to Jemma. (Confess Miles, confess!!!)

Most of the time in a friends to love romance, the man is the clueless one, but this time it was the woman. Jemma had no idea that Miles loves her. There were several times I wanted to shake some sense into and tell her to open her eyes. I loved Miles and wanted him to confess his feelings to Jemma far sooner than he did. There are so many things to love about this book: the dual POV, Matchmaking Mamas, Rebel friends, the meetings on the bench, the cricket game, and that first kiss!!

I loved that there were dual narrators for this book. The narrator for Jemma was very animated and both of the narrators did a fantastic job with the scenes where multiple female or male voices were required. Bravo to both of them!

This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone. I received a copy from the publishers, Shadow Mountain Publishing and Dreamscape Select, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.

Sweet historical romance I really enjoyed this one and want to now go back and read the rest of the series

This was a great book! It was just what I wanted in a historical romance. The only problem would be if you do not like the miscommunication trope.

Gemma, a bluestocking in 1820s England, shocks her friends and family when she promises her dying grandmother that she will take a husband. She enlists the help of the Matchmaking Mamas to find him, and calls on her best friend Miles -- the village vicar nicknamed "Mr. Romance" -- to instruct her in how to fall in love with the man who was chosen for her. But there's a problem. Miles has secretly been in love with Gemma ever since they were children, even though he's been all but promised to Gemma's cousin Lisette.

This clean romance didn't need any spice to be absolutely stunning. Between the fast pace of the story, the interesting characters, the sparkling dialogue, and the sharp humor throughout, this was a totally enjoyable book. I listened to the audio and I thought both male and female narrators were amazing, especially Mary Jane Wells. The narration had a pure theatrical quality that I don't hear often enough in audiobooks.

I haven't read/listened to the first two books in this series. Hopefully at some point I can get to them.

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Gentleman's Confession is an utterly charming romantic comedy set in Regency-era England that thrives on misunderstandings, slow-burn chemistry, and delightful narration. Anneka R. Walker spins a tale that is equal parts heartwarming and hilariously awkward, with her leads often thrown into situations that are as silly as they are endearing.

The audiobook brings this story to life with a fantastic double narration. Mary Jane Wells shines as the voice of Jemma, perfectly capturing her spirited chaos and self-doubt. Wells's inflection adds so much personality, making Jemma’s inner monologues all the more engaging. The male narrator, James Joseph, is equally compelling, bringing a steady, tender energy to Miles that contrasts beautifully with Jemma’s liveliness. Their combined performances elevate the story’s humor and yearning.

And oh, the yearning! This story is the epitome of a slow burn, with every glance, brush of hands, and exchange between Jemma and Miles steeped in delicious tension. Walker expertly balances humor with emotion, as the characters navigate the fraught territory of friendship and unspoken love. The climactic confession feels not only satisfying but deeply earned, offering a payoff that perfectly concludes their journey.

The side characters and setting also deserve mention. Walker's portrayal of the village and its quirks—like a cricket match with a neighboring town—creates a cozy and whimsical world that feels like a temporary escape from reality. And Ian, a secondary character, left such an impression that anticipation for his story is hard to resist.

In summary, this audiobook is a joyful experience for fans of Regency romance, witty banter, and stories brimming with heart. It’s a must-listen for anyone who loves a good slow burn and characters who fumble their way into love with all the charm and awkwardness of real life!

This is a sweet friends-to-lovers regency read filled with cute banter but also lots of miscommunication. Jemma and Miles are best friends, and Miles agrees to teach her how to fall in love, but might regret his decision. Much of the plot caused me to have anxiety over their poor decisions, as I’m not a fan of miscommunication tropes, but I did enjoy the “lessons” and the cute ways they showed up for eachother through genuine friendship. It’s a third book in a series, but I haven’t read the previous two and didn’t feel lost at all. Ultimately it’s a cute, light read for fans of the genre, especially if you listen to the audiobook, as the narrators are fantastic. Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Select for the ALC in exchange for my honest review.

I selected this book partly because I love the narrator, Mary Ann Wells. The story, however, was too silly for my taste. Just inane. I prefer my storyline believable, but the details: a prediction, an interfering society of do-gooders, a desperate requirement to marry combined with the hero's lack of gumption, made me question the editors who approved this story. Different strokes for different folks, I guess.

I listened to the audiobook version of The Gentleman’s Confession by Anneka R. Walker, which is a refreshing clean romance set in 1822 England. The story begins when Jemma is with her beloved grandmother who is on her death bed. Jemma promises her grandmother that she will settle down and marry, despite being fiercely independent all of her life. Jemma immediately enlists the help of the Matchmaking Mamas who pairs her with a new resident in town, the charming Mr. Bentley. However, she also asks her lifelong friend, Miles, who serves as the town’s vicar, to help her secure the affection of Mr. Bentley. It’s obvious from the beginning that Miles has loved Jemma from afar for at least a decade, but Jemma is firmly entrenched in the idea that Miles is pledged to her cousin Lisette. I got so tired of Jemma’s persistence in this notion and it was frustrating listening to it repeatedly. Thankfully everything turns out in the end and all parties involved get their happy endings.

When I started listening to this audiobook, narrated by Mary Jane Wells and James Joseph (both did an outstanding job), I didn’t realize it was the third book in a series. I believe I missed a few plot points because I didn’t understand who “the Rebels” were and why Jemma and Miles were included in the group. Therefore, I recommend listening to the first two books in the series before venturing to this one.

I love this series and this book! This book gave me similar vibes to Jane Austin’s Emma. Jemma is so stubborn and headstrong and so funny and Miles is a green flag kind of guy. Loved this friends to more.

Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Select for the ARC of this audiobook for my honest review

I loved this romance, and the matchmaking mamas are so impressive. I love it when the love interests actually someone that I’d like , I also loved the time period and it was so interesting. Always fascinating to read about people in those days and how they acted with friends and in relationships, what was a scandal back then too. So much fun! I recommend

I'll be publishing my review on Goodreads and StoryGraph 2nd December and on Tik tok most likely will add to a monthly wrap up post with review the beginning of January

I was absolutely smitten by this audiobook and the sweet relationship between Jemma and Miles in 1822 England. It was a happy and refreshing read (or listen, as was the case for me). I was instantly in love with Miles and rooted for their sweet connection the entire book. I also loved the spunk and wit of Jemma.

I have not read other books in this series, but having listened to this one, I feel like I should give those a try as well!

I do not give in to the temptation to try a ‘regency romance’ too often because I had a phase where I read too many of them and now do not necessarily enjoy all the ones I pick the same amount. I chose this because the audio version was available. I am really glad I did, especially in this format!

The narrators definitely seemed to have enjoyed themselves because I felt like I could hear extra emotion in their voices as the story progressed. Even when the characters might have been too earnest, listening to their thought process, it made sense for the characters to be that way.

There’s a bit of a background already established in the series, something that becomes quite apparent once the story begins. Miles had always been in love with Jemma but there are a few things preventing him from declaring himself. The biggest hurdle is that everyone’s always assumed he plans to marry Jemma’s cousin.

The story, including the ending, is predictable, but this does not take anything away from the experience. It is a clean romance with heartfelt characters and realistic situations ( for the most part), making the whole book highly entertaining. I planned to listen to just a couple of chapters but ended up following that with the entire book because I was enjoying myself too much.

There are some dialogues and scenes that had me chuckling. My review is purely for the audio version. I would highly recommend it to fans of this genre.

I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own listening experience.

This was an enjoyable read.
I absolutely loved the friend group and the matchmaking mamas. They gave the book some added humor.
This was a friends to lovers trope and it had me rooting for Miles right from the start.
I enjoyed that this book didn’t have a designated “bad guy” everyone was likable.
The author managed to give everyone a happy ending which I loved.
I also listened to this one on audio and it was wonderful. The narrator did a great job.

This is the first time that I have read a book by this author, and I enjoyed it very much. It was a cute and cozy romance between two people who won't admit their feelings for each other. Jemma and Miles were both adorable with the chemistry and denial. I enjoyed this story because it was warm and funny. The only down side is that I would have loved more romantic moments between them. I think the characters were well written, and the story was plotted well. I would recommend this to other for reading.

Thank you Net Galley ARC and Shadow Mountain Publishing.

If you’re in the mood for a delightful new read with a splash of historical romance, then The Gentleman’s Confession by Anneka Walker is your next must read!

Jemma is the spirited young lady who’s promised to marry in honor of her grandmother’s dying wish! She hilariously enlists the Matchmaking Mamas to find her a mate, and her best friend Miles (aka Mr. Romantic) to teach her all the lessons of love!

But here’s the twist, Miles is secretly in love with her!

Their journey is packed with witty banter, swoony moments, and even a little lake scene that’ll make your heart race! I loved all the friendships and support the little band of Rebels gives each other! I also absolutely loved Jemma’s fashion sense, and her desire to use her talents to help out those in need <3

This book is a sweet blend of laughter and longing that’ll leave you cheering for love to win out in the end. Seriously, don’t miss this sweet romance!

Thank you to Shadow Mountainpub and Netgalley for the opportunity to both read and listen to this book

A thoroughly charming and delightful tale. Jemma and Miles have been friends forever, sharing rich history and experiences. Miles also happens to be deeply in love with Jemma. I was drawn to his unrelenting friendship and desire to see good for Jemma. Even when she starts down a path he wants no part of, he does want to support and be close to his friend. He gives her lessons in love, revealing his own heart to her along the way and shows us all what a romantic he is. Despite expectations others have for them, their affections deepen and showcase how friendship really does lay a beautiful foundation for meaningful relationships. The challenges and twists and turn add effectively to the story and highlight how these two are better together than apart. I enjoyed the narration as well, as it allowed me to experience the story more richly in my mind’s eye as I listened along.
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

LOVED! I love the matchmaking mamas. I also love Miles being in love with Jemma since they were kids but still agreeing to help her find a husband. This book was so sweet! I can't get over their love story. It is just the sweetest!

Jemma Fielding would stop at nothing to honor the final promise she made to her dying grandmother : She would find love and get married.
Unsure of her ability to ignite such feelings in another person and herself, Jemma asks her longtime friend Miles for help. The thing is that Miles was secretly in love with Jemma for years, but never dared to confess his love.

A Gentleman's Confession is the kind of predictable and wholesome rom-com that will probably not be your favourite read of the year, but that will keep you entertained for a while.
It is a historical romance that takes place in the early 1800s : the time periode and everything that comes with it (the rules of propriety, the pining... etc.) was my favourite aspect of this book. The Matchmaking Mama's and The Rebels "squads" were also an original and interesting aspect, I only wish that they took more space in the story, but since this is the third installment of a series, I guess that they must've been more present in the first couple of books.
One thing that I didn't like in this book though was our MMC Miles, the vicar of Brookeside, who acted, in my opinion in a very "un-vicar-y" and borderline manipulative manner towards Jemma. He was just not the type of love interest one would wish for that lovely young woman.

🎧 Audiobook : 3.5/5 nice work from both narrators, even though I had a preference for Mary Jane Wells' perfomance.


Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Select for providing this audiobook for review consideration. All opinions are my own.