Kitty Talbot has just 12 weeks before the bailiffs take away her family home. In order to save her sisters and the only house they’ve ever known, Kitty needs money. The year is 1818 and the only way to ensure a fortune is to marry a rich man.
Kitty travels to London with her sister to launch herself into London society in the hopes of finding a suitor. Kitty is unfamiliar with traditions, fashion and behaviours and therefore uses all her ambition and cunningness to fit in. She even takes advantage of Lord Radcliffe who keeps falling for her tricks and can’t understand why he keeps letting her get away with it.
This debut novel surprised me. I imagined it to be very similar to Bridgerton and even though it was in certain ways, the story and characters had me hooked from the beginning. Irwin has written a witty, engaging novel with loveable characters and a perfect setting. I’m looking forward to reading more from her.

Thank you to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.

Historical romance isn't my normal go to but I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story tells of Kitty who needs a man...or a man with a fortune.

It's witty and well written. You leave to love or hate the characters.

Brilliant debut novel for Sophie Irwin.

A mixture of Young Adult Bridgerton and classic Jane Austen. It’s got all the sass of an Austen heroine, mixed with all the Georgian glamour of Bridgerton. I had a great time reading this book. I found it very entertaining, with lots of wit and humour and irony that I think Jane Austen fans would appreciate. I wanted to adore this, but it only gets 3/5 from me. It was just a bit bland and repetitive, but Kitty’s practicality and spunky nature was fun and fresh.

I liked the writing style and was a fan of the humour in the first part of the book. I understood Kitty’s need to find a rich husband as quickly as possible but she was so mercenary about it I was turned off, and I find it hard to believe that the man she ended up with would not have been, too. However, the characters were one-dimensional and not a lot happened when all was said and done.

A Lady’s Guide to Fortune Hunter by Sophie Irwin is a cute but predictable. That said, it certainly serves as an amusing break from reading more serious fare. It reads a little stilted in some sections but picks up a bit towards the end, which might bode well for a future book in the series. Kitty, at times, wasn’t the most likeable character as she comes off as manipulative. However, she is realistic about her situation and recognizes that in Regency England, she has little option but to marry for money.

I do actually recommend this book and had fun reading it, I just think it’s fallen prey to the mis-marketing and Bridgerton craze. A solid story but needed a little more in a few areas to be a shelf worthy choice for me.

Regency romance is all the rage in the wake of Bridgerton. If you are looking to satisfy your fix for the gossip and scandal of the ton, then A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting should most definitely be on your TBR card this season.

Destitute and orphaned, Kitty Talbot finds herself responsible for her parents' debts and saving her four younger sisters from financial ruin. As a woman, there are limited means for Kitty to find the money she needs, short of finding a wealthy husband. So, of course, she packs herself of to London and with the aid of her Aunt Dorothy and sister Cecily, aims to find a husband.

What ensues is a fun, and compelling regency romp, with romance, scandal and drama of high society to boot. Sophie Irwin pitches this novel perfectly within modern sensibilities - Kitty is an independent, clever and resourceful heroine who frequently flouts the rules of polite society, outdoing the gentlemen when it comes to saving the day and even shutting down lecherous suitors when it is called for. It might not fly with sticklers for historical accuracy, but if you are looking to fill that Bridgerton-shaped hole in your life, then this book is perfect.

Romance plots are often predictable, and A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting makes no exception here, though the story does throw in a few surprises here and there. Though, ultimately, we know what is going to happen, it's not so much about the end goal but about how we get there and what happens along the way. The characters are fun, and pretty well fleshed out; bookish Cecily might be infuriating to her sister but definitely garners sympathy from like-minded readers, while we see Aunt Dorothy having reinvented herself after a scandalous past. Our other prominent family, the de Lacy's each have their own histories and journeys exploring familial relationships, legacies, duty, PTSD from war and much more.

Irwin's debut is a whole lot of fun, and I can only hope A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting spawns sequels for each of the Talbot sisters because I can't wait for more of their stories.

Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and this book certainly didn’t disappoint. From the off this was a fun and witty read and this is perfect for lovers of regency era England. This is the author’s debut novel, and after a book like this, I am really looking forward to her next book.

Kitty Talbot was such a smart, quick witted, and loving character and I hope the next book includes her!

This book is a prefect read for lovers of Bridgerton and Pride and Prejudice. Although in saying that, this is the perfect regency romance, unlike Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton, there is only limited physical contact between Kitty and the male characters, but I think that is what makes it that bit different and refreshing. I also liked the character of Kitty as she made it VERY clear at all times that she was really only there as a fortune hunter, and once that outcome had been achieved, you wouldn’t see her for dust!

Overall, a really good book to lose yourself in and be transported back to regency England and the trials and tribulations of society life.


Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins UK for an e copy of this book, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book. A fresh approach to a Regency era romance, which would not be my normal type of read, the writing in this book was very good and the characters drew me in. Romance and society life, which is ideal for Bridgerton fans and for entertaining holiday reading. Really enjoyed this one!

I don't usually read a lot of historical romance, but this one proved irresistible. The recommendations promised 'witty', 'fun' and 'sassy' which I'm absolutely here for, so I was pleased to be granted a copy by NetGalley for review. As always, opinions are entirely my own.

The story opens in 1818 with Kitty Talbot being jilted by her fiance who was - let's face it - her meal ticket and answer to the problem of what to do with crushing inherited debt and younger sisters to support. She has twelve weeks before she loses her home, so needs a drastic solution. Luckily, Kitty is extremely resourceful and willing to lie, cheat and deceive her way into bagging a rich husband. Along with one of her sisters, she throws herself into the London season, but her route to success is barred by the troublesome Lord Radcliffe. As time gets tighter, Kitty ups her game - but is it enough to save her family from poverty?

Kitty is an appealing heroine - although her ultimate goal (a rich husband) is mercenary, she isn't portrayed as someone who is cruel or grasping. Instead, Irwin contextualises her need within the Georgian marriage market where men are free to make the most lucrative matches but women are stymied by society's rules and constraints and forced into passive roles. Although the book is packed with Georgian etiquette and expressions, Kitty's situation is seen through a modern lens - as intrinsically unfair, with odds stacked against poor Kitty, but a rigged game that readers want the underdog to win. Even when toying with the hearts (or bank balances) of rich men, Kitty is presented sympathetically - and her male targets unworthy of this strong, resourceful woman.

All that sounds very serious, but that isn't the tone of the book. Instead, Irwin presents us with an upbeat, often funny jaunt through Georgian high society as Kitty forges her way through formal dinners, balls, pleasure gardens, chaperoned visits and excursions, There is a sharp humorous undercurrent throughout the book that highlights quirks of character and tricky situations.

For me, one of the stars of the book was Aunt Dorothy, the friend of Kitty's dead mother who helps the girls launch themselves into London society. As a former courtesan, she faces meeting gentlemen in formal situations that she has met rather more intimately (*ahem*), but this never deters her from throwing herself into Kitty's plan with enthusiasm. She is warm, funny and generous - the kind of person you need in your corner. Kitty's sister, Cecilia, is also an absolute treasure, being awkward, bookish and prone to quoting obscure literature at baffled gentlemen - definitely the most relatable character for this bookworm! It's fair to say that Irwin writes women well.

The romance seems to unfold quite gradually and credibly - it's pretty obvious from the start where it is all heading, but the route there is so much fun. This is one book where you just need to throw yourself into the joy of it all and enjoy Kitty's climb through society.

This book would be enjoyed by those who love historical fiction with a strong female lead. Lots of reviews mention Georgette Heyer fans and yes, if that's you, you'll like this too. Personally, I cut my teeth on Georgian romance in my teens through the books of Amanda Quick which I'd also recommend (although they are a little racier than Irwin and Heyer - don't say you weren't warned!)

A witty and fun Regency period drama following the vivacious Kitty as she determines to find a wealthy husband in order to save her family from ruin. As the eldest, it is down to her to save them from debts left by her father. However, Kitty doesn't have access to the finer society parties due to her birth, so she relies on her wily ambitions to secure an alternative entrance into popular society. Her nemesis Radcliffe stands in the way, but soon finds himself embroiled in a plan to help her access the finer parties. There are plenty of nods to Austen's Pride and Prejudice and all the wit of Bridgerton. The focus remains on Kitty and Radcliffe and gives both their narrative POVs. There is much witty repartee between the pair. A thoroughly fun read. #aladysguidetofortunehunting #ladysguide #Sophieirwin #regencyperiod #drama #romance #theton #fortunehunting #historical #netgalley

Kitty Talbot is a woman in need of a man, or more specifically, a man with a fortune he’s willing to share to keep her and her sisters out of poverty.

Sophie Irwin’s debut is a really enjoyable read as we get to know Kitty and her sisters. She’s the eldest and feels responsible after losing both of their parents. They have a roof over their heads, but with the bailiffs heading round shortly and her previous engagement fallen through, she knows she needs to act fast.

It’s often the case that Regency heroines are slightly annoying, earnest and oblivious to their own faults. I didn’t find that with Kitty, although she probably demonstrates all of those at points across the story. Her single minded focus on saving her family is admirable, all the more so as she navigates the complicated rules and etiquette framework of the London scene.

This is not a new story, and I would definitely describe it Austen adjacent with a dash of Little Women and more than a nod to Bridgerton, but that didn’t lessen the enjoyment.

Besides Kitty, we meet a host of characters who help her along the way, her sisters, her Aunt, various duchesses, who are all interesting and well described. There’s also a line of dastardly caddish men who are extremely fun to pantomime boo when they come back into the chapter.

I enjoyed the detail in the prose as well, knowing what Kitty was wearing, her thought in every outfit and the clever ways they disguise how little money they have, was really interesting. Swapping dresses with her sister, adding new bows or petticoats etc to change the whole outfit completely. It’s a world away from modern day, where we don’t tend to get admonished in daily life for showing wrists or ankles.

Irwin has done a great job with her debut and cleverly included a host of sisters who could feasibly get their own book in the series. As sad as I would be not to follow Kitty in the next stage (who knows where she’ll be?), it would be fun to see the next Talbot on her journey.

Thanks to Netgalley and to HarperCollins as always for the DRC - this is out now in all good bookshops. There’s a particularly beautiful spredge option in Waterstones, in one of their exclusive editions. https://www.waterstones.com/book/a-ladys-guide-to-fortune-hunting/sophie-irwin/2928377080457

I found this book really quite charming and it totally gave me some Pride and Prejudice vibes so I'd instantly recommend it to any fans of Jane Austen.

I loved the leading lady and that despite the times and her situation she wasn't a damsel waiting for a man to come to her rescue. She was a woman hunting a man so that she could rescue herself in the only way she knew was possible. I enjoyed her audacity and intelligence, that it wasn't hidden or her portrayed as dim.

I do wish there was more from our leading man to give him a bit more depth but I did enjoy his character development and how he relaxed throughout the book.

This book had me laughing and welling up. It was an adventure of the high society of the Ton and I really enjoyed the world it took me too. I'd definitely buy from this author in the future. I also enjoyed, this book to the point I had to have the physical copy for my shelves.

Thank you for giving me an advanced copy. This is a fun, fast, read suited to those who love pride and prejudice and Emma

What a brilliant story! I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The character development, plot and setting was spot on. Reading this book I had very strong visualisation of each of the characters and the setting even a few weeks after I read it they are clear in my mind. A sign of a great book. All in all a super historical fiction title that kept me turning the pages rapidly in anticipation of what was to happen next.

I will be recommending this book for sometime to come, thank you to netgalley and the publishers for my review copy.

This book was brilliant and amazing if you love briderton. A regency romance with a lot of banter and serious themes thrown in. I really enjoyed the characters and this story. Highly recommend..

“A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting” is a regency romance like no other. The heroine, Kitty Talbot is the oldest of five sisters and needs to marry to pay off debts and rescue her siblings from poverty and separation. She is a formidable character who faces ruthless ton with wit, charm, and steely determination. It is a classic romance, full of humour and properly researched as well, but it is also a modern take on marriage market, role of women in the society and the constraints faced by them. Kitty is bold and not afraid to voice her opinions, but she is also calculating and manipulates unsuspecting men. She is playing by her rules, just like Becky Sharp, but she is modern version of Becky, and dare I say much nicer. The book is really well thought, and it has all the tropes of a good romance. A really good read for a hot summer afternoon.

I loved this debut! A delightfully fun story set in regency England. I adored Kitty – she is determined to secure a fortune, putting aside her own happiness so that her sisters can lead the lives they desire. She is intelligent, amusingly cunning, and utterly admirable. I loved her scandalous antics; nothing will stop her from finding a fortune.
For those Bridgerton fans – get this one on your TBR! It is wonderfully atmospheric: I was wrapped up in garden strolls, elegant balls, and dinner dances. Filed with drama, gossip and scandal, this is a charming escapism read.

Her parents married for love but Kitty Talbot has to be more pragmatic. The eldest of five sisters, she has three months to marry for money to pay off the family debts or they are all on the street. Kitty resolves to travel to London and partake in 'The Season' but her best efforts seem doomed to failure.
This is a very fluffy novel but it really hits the spot as a piece of short, fun entertainment. Yes, it is sub-Bridgerton and very influenced by Austen but that doesn't stop the action bouncing along. I read it in a couple of hours and loved it!

A really fun, humorous read. The language used struck me as very Bridgetonesque which was a plus. The characters are likeable and the ending is not as predictable as first thought. Our heroine is clever and resourceful with definite ambition! Highly recommended read - really enjoyable!

Thank you Netgalley

This whole book was a lot of fun. It had that lovely Pride and Predjuice/Bridgerton style crossover of misunderstandings, forthright heroines and society expectations. It doesn't push the boat out in terms of the kind of diversity that you get from Bridgerton, so I assume is more 'historically' accurate, but with a little uptick in the level of scandal going on.

Somehow, despite the influences on this story, and the sisters being nearly identical to the whole Bennet family, and a hypochondriac mother, it still felt fresh. Even better, the growing relationship between Kitty and Lord Radcliffe felt like one of equals - they both were sarcastic and proud, and both played an important role in rescuing each others' families. Similarly, Kitty was very likeable - she was determined and dogged in her need to find a fortune, but equally wasn't willing to fully deceive anyone about her situation.

A fun and frothy Regency-style romance - the poor family is scrambling back into society, the toffs are suitably snobby and there's a little bit of honest reputational scandal too. It didn't exactly push the boat out in terms of the story or storytelling, but I enjoyed it nonetheless. 3.5 stars!

This Historical novel is not only a journey back to the heady heights of 1818 London society but, for me, it was also a return to that earlier phase of my reading when I devoured any novel that hinted at a possible romantic lliason between two unlikely main characters.
In ‘A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting’ Sophie Irwin’s descriptive detail and her enticing ‘Will they? Won’t they?’ storyline makes this engaging and a must-read for lovers of classical hits like Pride and Prejudice.
The heroine, Kitty Talbot, is headstrong and determined which is just as well, if she is to have any hope of ensnaring a potential husband in order to save her family from downfall. Whilst there is that to be expected love-hate relationship, Irwin somehow manages to ensure her main character has just that little more daring, thereby keeping the modern reader’s interest.
This is certainly a book I would recommend for those who have read the classics so often and have spent many years wishing there were new similar delights to read.
Thank you to HarperCollins and NetGalley for this copy in exchange for an honest review.

An entertaining and enjoyable light read, with a far more ingenious and forthright heroine than is often found in Regency era historical fiction.

Following the death of her father and spurned by her now former fiancé, Kitty, the eldest of five daughters, must make a good match in mere weeks to ensure her sisters will be taken care of. Enter the London season.

I liked that Kitty took her life into her own hands as much as possible, although she was obviously limited by the "corset" of society, laws and expectations regarding women. She fights against her own powerlessness and she does it all because of a deep love for her family, which felt very real.

I immensely enjoyed the humorous dialogue and verbal sparring that the genre has become so well known for and which we all delight in. There was a lot of judgement and dare I say, prejudice(!), on all sides. However, there was also real discussion of the reality of Kitty and her family's situation - the harsh, devastating future that could await them, and how women had very few options or opportunities in their world. Also, that perhaps only rich independent upper class men had the privilege to see it as 'fortune hunting.'

The characters were effected by events in the real historical world, such as the battle of Waterloo, and having difficulty returning to their previous lives after fighting wars. I thought this was a unique strength of the book as period romances often seem to exist in a vacuum.

I found it an enjoyable historical romance with varied and real characters, perfect for a sunny afternoon.

Favourite quotes:
- "Of course, on the battlefield, Radcliffe would have been free to shoot Miss Talbot, a not unappealing prospect."
- "Yes," she confessed. "I will always choose my sisters – I will choose their need more than my want every day."