I was a big fan of Sophie Irwin’s previous two books - she writes regency romance that manages to feel both up to date and period appropriate at the same time. I want heroines that are real and rounded and brave and human, but which also exist in the very real strictures of that society. It’s so hard to do well and I don’t think anyone does it better than Sophie Irwin.

The plot here: Lydia comes from trade and wants to marry for love, unlike her family who believe her duty is to raise their social standing as far as possible. Lord Ashford, heir to a Dukedom, is pursued by every lady or mama who wishes to be a duchess, and for his own reasons has decided the demure, correct Miss Lydia Haworth is the one for him. Lydia’s family pressure her into accepting his offer of marriage, and agree that the engagement is to be kept secret for 10 days so Ashford’s father can announce at a grand ball.

Ashford’s plan is for the 10 days, to be spent as guests at a house party, will give Lydia time to acclimatise to the sort of high society which is new to her. Lydia, desperate to end the engagement without bringing the ire of her family upon her, and chaperoned by her eccentric brother, has other ideas…

This gave me everything I want in this sort of book. The dialogue was a delight, I both laughed out loud and shed some tears, and for the too-short time I was reading I was transported to another world. Very fun, very satisfying, highly recommend!

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Irwin has once again weaved her magic. A regency romance that feels contemporary and fun. This was a great light read filled with funny moments and quick witted banter. An absolute delight from start to finish. The characters are well developed and you can’t help but fall in love with them as they fall (reluctantly) in love with each other.

How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days was excellent fun. I loved every moment of this, as I expected I would. Top quality enemy to lovers.