This novel is everything: suspenseful romance, authentic historical female Black perspective, and a great heroine. Stella is caught between the mostly white wealthy world of the house in which she grew up and her Black family, trying to navigate wanting to be a writer with the pressure to “find a suitable suitor” and marry. She receives an inheritance that is contingent on her getting married and while she’s grateful for a gift that would allow her to live comfortably, she is less than interested in finding someone to wed. Supporting characters like her cousin Olivia and her childhood friend Nathanial are woven wonderfully into the narrative and Stella herself is a character to remember. This very entertaining tale (including a simmering romance!) is a fresh take on an era that usually centers white perspectives

A period romance that's appropriate for teens AND has diverse characters? Yes, please!

I've been really excited to see the emergence of more diverse historical romances over the last few years and while I'm sure some liberties were taken in regards to accuracy, I appreciated that S. Isabelle still dived into the discrimination someone like her FMC, Stella, might face.

Stella is a strong character who throughout the book retains her independence and her own goals. Still, she's written as a character with flaws, keeping her realistic. She sometimes says hurtful things and doesn't always think of the long term repercussions of her actions. Much like a real teenager.

While Stella is very much the main character, secondary characters are also fleshed out and we get a fairly clear picture of who they are as people which isn't always something that happens in a book. I could easily see a few of the characters getting their own follow up book.

I did find some of the plot lines a little predictable but I think that would be less of a problem for the YA audience this book is intended for. That being said, it's definitely worth a read even if you don't usually choose YA books.

All that's left is for me to go out and check out other books from this author!

I enjoyed reading this SO much! Stella is such an amazing character and seeing Victorian England through her eyes was an education that everyone should have. This is another one of those books that I flew through in one sitting. It's a quick read but immensely enjoyable.

I wasn't sure how the story would play out at the end, but was ultimately satisfied. It wrapped things up a bit too neatly for each character...yet I can't find it in me to care! I wanted the best for everyone and it's what they got.

Loved to see the small sapphic inclusion as well (I'm proud to say I guessed that from the moment she was introduced!)

Needless to say, I will be purchasing this when it is published in July to add to my collection as an early birthday present to myself!

Thank you to NetGalley and HarpersCollins Children's for the ARC of this book.

stella is a special character and i loved learning about society from her experience as a black woman. while i loved the fast pace of the book, the only thing that kept it from being a 5 for me was that i felt it needed a few more chapters/scenes between nathanial and stella as well as more content about her writing in order to really love the ending!

this is marketed as similar to bridgerton tv show, which i get because of the gossip column and diverse characters, but in bridgerton the show they don’t often talk about what it’s like to be black in society at that time, for example. the author tackles that here and i think it’s both necessary to the plot and necessary to the narrative to include that.

If you're a fan of historical romance with a modern twist, The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick by S. Isabelle is a must-read! Set in 1860s England, this novel introduces us to Stella Sedgwick, a sharp-witted Black woman yearning for independence in a society that offers her little beyond marriage or servitude.

The Plot

At eighteen, Stella dreams of a writing career but finds herself constrained by societal expectations. Her life takes an unexpected turn when Thomas Fitzroy, her late mother's former employer, bequeaths her a grand estate. This inheritance thrusts Stella into the complexities of London high society, where she must navigate racial prejudices, familial expectations, and the intricacies of the marriage market. Reuniting with her childhood friend Nathaniel, now a charming yet enigmatic figure, Stella grapples with her desires for independence and the societal pressures to conform.

Why You'll Love It

Empowering Protagonist: Stella's journey from a "lost cause" to a woman embracing her identity and ambitions is both inspiring and relatable.

Rich Historical Setting: The novel vividly portrays 1860s London, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of a Black woman in high society.

Romantic Intrigue: The rekindled connection between Stella and Nathaniel adds depth and passion to the narrative.


Critical Acclaim

Described as "Bridgerton meets The Davenports," this standalone romance offers a fresh perspective on the genre. Readers have praised it for its wit, romance, and exploration of themes like racism, colorism, and classism.

Final Thoughts

S. Isabelle masterfully blends historical romance with contemporary themes, crafting a story that's both entertaining and thought-provoking. Stella Sedgwick's tale is one of resilience, love, and the pursuit of one's true self.

In The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick, S. Isabelle presents a protagonist who knows herself against a setting that acts as an obstacle to her hopes and dreams. The plot is well-paced with clear stakes, but the resolution feels too simple and perfect to be realistic.
As a protagonist, Stella is clearly confident, intelligent, and self-aware. As a black young woman without a family or fortune, she rushes head-long into conflicts that matter, and she never shies away from the consequences of her actions.
The setting is lush and detailed and draws readers into the drama and pageantry of the period.
Well-plotted and well-paced, the story spins from minor conflict to minor conflict as the larger mystery of Stella’s unexpected inheritance and the requirements it demands builds. When Stella is faced with the life she never thought she wanted, she will have to decide whether she will close the doors to a possible happiness or take the chance and risk her heart. In the resolution, Isabelle ties up all the loose ends in a happily-ever-after conclusion, but the very happy ending seems simplistic and too good to be true.
Overall, this story is an enthralling trip into the past, and introduces a strong and confident heroine who would make a wonderful character for a series!

This was such a sweet and joyful read. I’m a fan of Bridgerton so this book caught my eye set in England in the 1800s as a black woman navigates society. I loved Stella’s witty, charming character. I also loved the surrounding storylines of all the characters in this book. The romance was appropriate for a YA novel and I really liked how the author showed the nuance of each character (even despicable Jane). The only things I didn’t love are the time jumps and the ending. The time jumps just weren’t needed. They didn’t add anything to the story, and the ending left me wanting more! I closed the book with lots of what if questions and thoughts about where Stella and Nate would go from here. Overall I enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it.

This book was one of the funniest, and sweetest reads I've read so far this year! I found Stella to be endearing and also reflective of her actions, which I appreciate in a young adult book. The romance was sweet, and not far flung by any means, it was believable, and I love the diversity that was included in the book because readers deserve to see themselves in historical romance no matter their age. Big fan of this and will be adding to an every growing list of books to purchase for the library.

This book was amazing! The writing was very easy to read and it was a very interesting! I would highly recommend reading this book!

"Contrary to appearences, I do not usually begin my mornings by shoving delivery boys to the ground." And so we are introduced to probably one of my favorite FMC characters of 2025, and it's only February.

Meet Stella Sedgwick, the plucky young and somewhat unwilling heiress who is thrust into London's society in 1868. She is headstrong, obstinate, kind, caring, and devoted to her family and her craft. I loved her journey as she grew from a girl to a young woman finding her own way. I loved that she stayed true to herself, even at the end of the book, she didn't sacrifice herself or her goals. She is surrounded by a loveable cast of characters who quickly steal our hearts with their passions and personalities.

While this is a delightful book and I will be preordering it, there are a couple of things that bothered me. First, it was difficult to tell the passage of time. At one point, things happen rather quickly, and then they happen rather slowly, but based on the context clue it was difficult for me to tell what was happening. Secondly, there were parts that felt a little rushed, too heavy on dialogue, and I wasn't able to understand who was talking.

Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more from this author.

I love historical fiction, and this was such a breath of fresh air. I loved that Stella refused to be confined by society's expectations and had such big dreams for herself. I especially loved watching her grow throughout the novel and realize that her dreams could change into something she never expected. The characters were fun, and it was a joy to get to know them through her. This was unlike many historical novels I've read, especially one featuring a season and potential love interests, and that's what makes it so great.

I love a good historical romance, and this one was no exception! Set in 1860s England, it follows Stella, a young woman ahead of her time. At just 18, she’s already fighting for her independence and her right to exist in a world steeped in racism, colorism, classism, and sexism.

She had an easy way out by finding a marriage of convenience that would have secured her wealth and stability. But instead of taking the traditional route, she chooses to carve her own path, refusing to let societal expectations dictate her future. This story beautifully explores personal strength, the journey into adulthood, and the weight of societal pressures and prejudices. And at its heart? A touching childhood friends-to-lovers romance that makes the journey all the more rewarding.

This book was so engaging and I believe that its because it was written in first person POV. This book gave me Bridgerton vibes and I absolutely loved it. I empathized with Stella so much especially for the times she was living in and being single at her age which was looked down upon. I would feel comfortable recommending this book for my young adult daughter, its a very good read.

S. Isabelle’s The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick is a spellbinding tale of mystery, magic, and resilience. Stella’s journey through tragedy and self-discovery is beautifully layered with rich world-building and a haunting atmosphere. Isabelle weaves themes of family, destiny, and courage into a gripping narrative that keeps readers hooked until the last page. Perfect for fans of dark, emotional fantasy with unforgettable heroines.

My goodness is it refreshing to see a historical romance in first person perspective. It really kept me engaged throughout the story. I loved how this book touches on some hard topics and I know many younger girls who will fall in love with Stella's strong personality. 4 stars for me because I think although the book is YA, I felt the romance part was lacking. It's hard to put it fully into the romance category in my mind. Loved the story though and the characters.

This was such a good read! I loved how it was unafraid to seriously examine themes like racism, colorism, colonialism, and patriarchy. But the setting and characters provided a great levity that made the book wholly enjoyable.

Thanks to her status as a dark-skinned orphan, Stella knows that her options are limited. But rather than follow the path of least resistance (marriage to anyone that'll have her), she fights to maintain her independence and achieve her dream of being a successful writer.

My favorite part of the story is how Stella's character and growth is handled. She has her flaws--she's impulsive, prideful, and stubborn--but they all make her more likeable and real. Her frustrations are completely understandable. Even though she has some growning up to do, who she is never changes. She learns not to let her anger conrol her and finds the maturity to live her life entirely on her own terms.

My only complaint is the romance with Nathaniel felt underdeveloped. However, I did really enjoy many of his scenes with Stella. He challenges her preconceptions, enables her growth, and accepts her as she is.

I have been waiting for a black fmc like Stella! Oh my god, I was rooting for her from the moment the book started and I just LOVE HER. I can't wait to hear what others think of this book, I am a big of this author's witchy series and I just..sigh. FIVE STARS

This was a wonderful story. Definitely got this to cover my Bridgerton longing. This didn't really get there for me. As this was a romance, it was also newly eighteen, I missed that somehow so my fault for that and it's not really a romance it felt so weak in that regards. I liked how it walked you through the season and how it's almost a fish out of water story of her taking the reader along to this new world that Stella is now a part of, whether she likes it or not. And she doesn't know if she likes it or not just yet. Does she stay or go, and can she be true to herself while she does it?

Pub Date 08 Jul 2025
I received a digital ARC of this book from HarperCollins Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review..

This YA Historical Romance was delightfully entertaining. S. Isabelle successfully guides us through the world of Miss Stella Sedgwick as she navigates through 1800s London Society during the social season as a young, black woman. Stella maintains her sense of self while facing the challenges of racism, sexism and conforming to societal attendant argument norms with her gift of quick wittedness and fierce independence. All the dealing with the love interest of her childhood best friend.

I highly recommend this book to those that enjoy period romance.

“These wealthy families may have more money than I do, but their prejudices and judgements put them beneath me”

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Great Misfortune of Stella Sedgwick. I absolutely loved this YA historical romance and especially appreciate the author’s goal to make sure that black teenagers have more representation in this genre. Stella Segwick is an orphan girl dealing with the prejudice of being a black woman and the misogyny of being a single woman. Constantly reminded of her singleness and blackness in white spaces, Stella is searching for an identity outside of being a wife or a mother. I loved the love story but really appreciate how the author stayed true to Stella, even in the epilogue. I’m typically not a huge YA fan but found this novel really charming, fun, and swoon-worthy. 4 stars