Miss Newbury's List

December 12, 2022
Rosalind Newbury is already engaged to the Duke of Marlow at the start of this delightful Regency from Walker (Lakeshire Park)—but she barely knows the man. Ros has a list of things she’s always wanted to do before getting married, one of which is learn how to swim. This results in a near-drowning, from which she is saved by Charlie Winston, Ros’s best friend’s cousin, who’s back in the countryside from London after being cut off by his father for breaking an earl’s arm in a boxing match. Charlie, a second son mourning his late older brother, is still adjusting to the increased scrutiny of becoming his father’s heir, and helping Ros complete her list provides both fun and distraction. Their growing bond leaves Ros more doubtful than ever about marrying the duke. Meanwhile, Charlie’s life may be in danger from a powerful enemy seeking revenge. Walker’s latest sparkles with sweet romantic moments as Ros defies societal and familial expectations in the name of love. This is a treat.

January 1, 2023

With her wedding to the Duke of Marlow looming, Rosalind Newbury wants to have no regrets and makes a list of ten things to do before she marries. Ros invites her best friend Liza along, but Liza's wayward cousin, a boxer named Charlie, is visiting and quickly finds out about the list. After accidentally helping to cross off two items, Ros reluctantly agrees he can help with the rest. As the three progress through the list, their adventures eventually take a dangerous turn, and Marlow finds out. Ros tries to call off the wedding, confessing her love for Charlie, but the duke threatens her family, determined the marriage takes place so he can obtain a parcel of Newbury land as part of the marriage contract. Ros must decide between following her heart or protecting her family. VERDICT Walker (Lakeshire Park) creates a winning champion in Charlie, who grows from a tempestuous man to one of restraint without losing his mischievousness. The easy friendship and slow-burning chemistry between Charlie and Ros will warm readers' hearts.--Eve Stano

Copyright 2023 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from January 1, 2023
Two weeks from her marriage to a duke she barely knows, Rosalind Newbury is determined to complete her ultimate bridal bucket list. With the help of her best friend, whose wayward cousin Charles unexpectedly joins them, Rosalind embarks on her 10 final adventures of indulgence, remembrance, and risk before wedlock. As the items on her list remind Rosalind of her dreams beyond becoming a docile duchess, she also realizes that Charlie is more than a brooding accomplice. His unwavering encouragement, intimate confidences, and tantalizing attraction ignite a desire for something that was missing from her list all along, true love. Walker (Lakeshire Park, 2020) dazzles readers with a wonderfully surprising Regency romance about self-discovery and following one's dreams to new beginnings. Set in 1820 England, the fresh premise of Miss Newbury's List is an immediate hit, and the exquisitely paced plotline strikes a satisfying balance between pursuit and reflection for its delightful characters. Rosalind's narrative voice is entertaining and introspective, charming and complex, and the chemistry between the always proper Rosalind and Charlie positively glows with yearning. It is a resounding success for Walker, whose talent for emotional intricacy and smart wit elevate the standard of excellence in the genre.

COPYRIGHT(2023) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.