This book was so much fun to read!

It has a little bit of everything: a dastardly villain, a strong heroine, a bit of mystery, a bit of adventure, and a smattering of romance.

But even better—automatons! Yes, it has serious steampunk vibes! And the craziest menagerie of misfit animals, and the wildest characters…it’s just marvelous!

Here’s hoping for more stories from Angela Bell! I received an advance copy from the publisher. My review has not been solicited and is completely truthful.

I honestly loved this quirky adventure in this enemies-to-lovers romance! I didn’t realize that it was also technically labeled Christian fiction, and while I’m not a fan of Christian lit, there wasn’t a whole lot of focus on the religious stuff. It honestly felt thrown in, like the author was just trying to humor Christian readers. In my mind I just omitted those parts and the story still worked. If you love hilarious characters, around the world in 80 days vibes, and a heartwarming romance this is a great choice for you!

#BookReview : A LADY'S GUIDE TO MARVELS AND MISADVENTURE by Angela Bell

It was so much fun reading this fun historical fiction and I just love the quote below.

“Oh, Clara Marie. The Lord never promised that life would be safe. But He did promise to be with us always. Whatever the harrowing journey of life may bring, rest assured, you shall never be left to face it alone.”

I never expected to love this book. The eccentric characters, the amazing automatons and the immersive details about the cities and interesting buildings in the area made this book unputdownable. I enjoyed following Clara on her adventures as well as her journey of learning more about herself and life. I especially love the faith weaved in the story through her grandfather's clues. The wisdom imparted were precious. I took my time reading this book to savor all the good things about it. I can't wait for the next book by the author. I highly recommend.

Rating: 5 ⭐
Pub date: 27 Feb 2024

Thank you Bethany House Publishers and #netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure by Angela Bell is such a fun book to read! Featuring an eccentric but loveable cast of characters, an array of settings to satisfy any literary travel bug, and many nuggets of faith throughout the novel, this was a book that kept my attention from beginning to end!

The characters in A Lady's Guide took some time to grow on me. Heroine Clara Stanton begins the story as a grouchy and cautious young woman with a tendency to want to control everything around her. She frequently beats heads with her grandfather's new protegee, the mysterious Arthur, who has charmed everyone in her family but her. As the story progresses, though, Clara and Arthur need to depend upon each other and learn from each other. They help each other to grow and I came to really enjoy their story.

I loved learning about all of the cities that the characters travel to in this book. A Lady's Guide takes the reader on a literary tour of nineteenth century Europe, and I thought it was so fun that Bell chose to bring her characters to cities that we don't often see in literature. So many of the locations mentioned were familiar to me only by name, and I had fun looking up the various landmarks that the characters visited.

My very favorite part of the book was reading the letters from Clara's grandfather, whom she affectionately refers to as Grand. He passes on so many nuggets of faith and wisdom to her - I highlighted so many lines because they were just so good!

I really enjoyed reading A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure! If you enjoy books with great character arcs and lots of traveling, I think you'd like this story a lot!

I just finished this gem over the weekend! A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure is @authorangelabell's debut novel and it did not disappoint!

Miss Clara Stanton's sole purpose is to protect her family from society gossip and avoid rumors that they all suffer from insanity (or so her ex-fiance says). But soon, the clockmaker grandfather disappears into the sky in a secret owl machine starting Clara, her mother and Grand's mysterious new apprentice on an adventure of a lifetime.

I loved the steampunk Victorian era vibes in this one! The author takes us all over Europe with fun details, new sights, and mysterious inventions her grandfather left as clues.

This book has great faith elements and a sweet romance. Theodore is a delight! The banter between him and Clara was fantastic. Such a charmer that one!

Great read for Christian fiction lovers who like a little quirky, fun adventure! Thank you @austenprose
And @bethanyhousefiction for my #gifted copy!

*Romance- kisses
*TW- grief, kidnapping
#aladysguidetomarvelsandmisadventure #angelabell #historicalromance #victorianromance #inspirationalfiction #bookstagram #newbooks #bookreview #booktwitter #booktour #austenprosepr

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, a debut novel by Angela Bell, is simply wonderful faith-based romantic historical fiction. Set in the Victorian Period, this adventure with a touch of mystery features characters are who are engaging, and the plot is full of twists and turns. Clara and her family are so quirky and interesting; Arthur, the apprentice, just adds in more fun and romance. I cannot wait to read the next novel by Bell! Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my advanced review copy. All opinions and thoughts are my own.

I was particularly drawn to the cover and premise of this book, and decided to give it a go after hearing many a fellow reader comment how entertaining and downright funny it was.

There certainly were some literal-LOL moments, but I couldn't get into it! The story didn't draw me in, and some of the characters I found annoying more than anything--which was sad. What seemed meant to be funny fell into "over the top" instead.

I read a good chunk of it but unfortunately it just wasn't for me, so I'm DNFing at this time. I may try again later; perhaps my timing was off.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Clara and Theodore were fun characters, and the romance between them was cute. Their verbal sparring was fun. Mrs. Stanton was a fun twist on the mentor trope with the uniqueness of her character. Also, Fred was pretty fantastic. (IYKYK 😉)

I was impressed by how Bell wove the Biblical elements into the novel without it coming across as preachy. While the faith content was definitely present in the novel, I think it worked well because of Clara’s character arc and how relatable it was.

The automation elements added a touch of almost steampunk to the book, which was fun. I would have appreciated a note at the end about what automatons were like during that time period, though that's mostly because of my own curiosity.

Be warned, this book will leave you wishing you would go travel across Europe. I loved all of the little elements of each city Clara and Co. visited, especially the food. It added a level of depth to the settings. 

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure is a fun, light-hearted book, while also having rich and meaningful themes.

A whimsical, faith filled, redemption, steampunk story. I felt this had a great & funny open. Throughout there was good humor. Romance was apart of the story but also family and letting go of unnecessary heavy burdens. Plus, fun travel. Well rounded story telling with no preachy messages. I loved the characters. I was impressed with this debut author & I'd read her again. It was a longer book and slow build romance book as an fyi. With this it is really a your mileage may vary. Overall it was a 4/4.5 star read for me since it was 40 chapters. The story didn't drag for me but still felt long. However, I did enjoy the story and think this author is one to try.

If I could only use one work to describe this book it would be whimsical! I loved A Lady’s Guide so much! Angela Bell will take you on an adventure throughout Europe searching for clues left by her grandfather.
You will love this book if you like adventure, quirky characters and a bit of romance.

Ps. I want an ermine!

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure by Angela Bell is a wonderful Victorian historical romance! Clara Marie Stanton’s ex-fiancé has spread rumors about her family making Clara suspicious of everyone! Theodore Kingsley loves repairing clocks and keeps his identify a secret. Clara’s grandfather, Drosselmeyer, hires him and Clara does not trust him. Only a great adventure can change their minds.

This story is a sheer delight! I was intrigued from the beginning and enjoyed my travels all over Europe on a scavenger hunt chasing a flying owl. (That alone should intrigue you to read this story.) The characters were so interesting that I found myself invested and wanting to become their friends. The humor that Clara’s relatives bring to the story kept me laughing and wondering what would happen next. I loved walking with Clara and Theodore as they transformed into their true selves and were set free from their pasts. The threads of faith were beautifully and naturally a part of the story.

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures was a fabulous story that will stay with me. I adored the adventure, romance and transformative characters. This will be a highlight book of 2024 for me. I highly recommend.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review

I thoroughly enjoyed the book “A Ladies Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” by Angela Bell. I was granted early access to it via NetGalley and Baker Publishing Group.

This is a book filled with adventure, mystery, frivolity, fun, faith, hope, rediscovery, a bit of suspense and steampunk, and a romance.

Bell’s writing style is very poetic which is a delight to read. We follow her heroine, Miss Clara Marie Stanton, her mother – Mrs. S, and her grandfather’s apprentice, Theodore aka “Arthur,” on a journey to some wonderous locations. They start in London and head to the continent following Grand’s clues. Bell’s descriptions of the locations are delightful! But we are not the only ones who follow the trio or Grand, who is flying in a mechanical owl that he built. The newspapers are tracking his movements trying to figure out who created this wonder and where it will appear next. Also, following them is Clara’s ex-finance, who is the villain in this novel as he is desperate for money and has threatened Clara and her family to extort it from them.

Because of the betrayal of her fiancé and some spies he had sent into her home, Clara is very distrusting of Theodore/Arthur to start. However, he proves he is working with them and not against them and Clara’s attitude starts to shift. Theodore/Arthur didn’t help things initially as his own past left him hurting, broken, and hiding – thus the reason he calls himself “Arthur” instead of using his given name. Both Clara and Theodore come to share the things of the past that have hurt them and they both turn to God to help heal them and protect those they love.

Mrs. S – Clara’s mom, is the comic relief in the story. She has a soft spot for all animals and champions their rights. She has a trained ferret that plays dead by being her stole. She defends rats on the ship, saves baby foxes, and keeps collecting animals throughout their journey.

This is a Christian novel and there are references to God and scripture.

I think this book would be fabulous for anyone who has lost their joy in life due to fear and a need to be in control.

I really did love the book and would recommend it!

Oh, that was beautiful poetic writing filled with adventure and whimsy. Just imagine: a large owl automaton, automatons that respond to the clockmaker's call, the menagerie of animals, and the journey across Europe! Add to that the quirky cast of characters and we've got such a fun story.

It was also full of hurts that needed mending: of learning how to let go of control, depend on other people; of letting go of guilt. And how that's only possible if you learn to depend on the Maker and give all your shame and guilt to Him.

Clara and Theodore were loveable yet flawed characters (also, disability rep!) who found their way in the world with the help of the people around them, who also helped rebuild their faith. I also really loved Clara's grandfather Drosselmayer who orchestrated their whole adventure.

Beautiful story chockful of wisdom and beautiful message 💕

I love discovering new sub-genres of Christian fiction that stay true to biblical teachings, while presenting them in fun ways. Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and Angela Bell for a chance to read this book in advance.

Read if you like:
🕰️ Historical romance (late Regency time period)
🌍 Adventure and traveling
✨ Whimsical inventions
🦊 Cute animals
📖 Strong faith elements

Other details and mild spoilers:
Dual third-person POV
CW: war, death, emotional and mental trauma, stalking, incarceration

As I turned the pages of Angela Bell’s debut novel, A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures, I was whisked away on a whirlwind adventure that combined the wonder of Around the World in Eighty Days, the wit of Pride and Prejudice and the charm of Doctor Doolittle. Beyond its invigorating scavenger hunt through Europe, this novel is a heartwarming tale of two unlikely allies embarking on a journey that will lead to unexpected discoveries and, most surprisingly, love.

“You need to embrace the starry-eyed wanderlust God has placed in you. Explore the wonders of the world and let Him be the one to carry it. Let Him be the one to carry us.” ~ Angela Bell

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures is one of those books whose covers prepare you for a great read. However, as you open its pages, you’ll discover that it’s more than a charming story that will inspire you to travel around the world. What sets this book apart is its deep exploration of faith and God’s role in our lives. We are never alone and not supposed to carry the weight of this world on our own. As Clara and Theodore navigate the challenges and joys of their journey, they find themselves not only chasing Drosselmeyer but also their Creator as they are reminded of His presence and learn the importance of surrendering control to Him. This message of faith and trust in God’s plan is woven throughout the novel, adding depth and meaning to the story that will stay with you after you turn the final page.

“Listen here. Little Atlas may be your nickname, but it is not your identity. You were never meant to carry the world on your shoulders. You are not God.” ~ Angela Bell

I adored A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures! Not only do I have a new itinerary for my next trip to Europe, but as I reached the end of this story, I was left with a great sense of hope and peace that God has everything under control and will hold me up as I prepare for the next chapter of my story. Despite people's whispers and opinions about us, A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures taught me to embrace the person God created me to be, showcasing all my qualities no matter how quirky others might find them. Normal is boring, and I’d much rather be a part of the Stanton family than the Kingsley’s.

“But we are not without hope, Clara. For it never ceases to exist. Hope’s light lives on in the One who ignited its flame through His resurrection.” ~ Angela Bell

Other delightful aspects of A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures included the humor, mystery, and romance entwined in the pages of this book. From the eccentric characters and Drosselmeyer’s incredible inventions to the historic locations, there was never a dull moment. And let’s not forget the menagerie of animals Mrs.S collected along the way, which added an extra layer of fun — I’m convinced my mother is Mrs.S.

“You stand upon a crumbling cliff ledge, son. I’m not a good Christian woman until after my tea and toast.” ~ Angela Bell

A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures is a fabulous book that will be adored by travel enthusiasts, animal lovers, Victorian-era romantics, and truth seekers. It will make you laugh, think, swoon, smile, and eagerly anticipate Angela Bell’s next release!

What a charming read, full of hints of the Nutcracker and a European train adventure, this was just so full of heart & whimsy! I loved the unique take on the characters backstories as well as the authors tone and overall plot. This is a favourite read of 2024 for sure! I highly recommend.
Thanks to the publisher for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my fair and honest review.

I didn’t know what to expect going into this book. The cover looked good, and who doesn’t love a blue cover? I was pleasantly surprised by the story that awaited me!

A mixture of THE NUTCRACKER and AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS, it had all the parts a good story needs:
- romance
- adventure
- retelling vibes
- family
- animals
- and clocks

I can’t wait for another book from Angela Bell!

What a fabulous debut! A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure is a clever, whimsical mashup of the Nutcracker, Around the World in 80 Days, steampunk, and faith with a witty, slow burn reverse grumpy/sunshine romance and lots of adventure along the way. I didn’t know what to expect going in and I highly suggest reading it that way. It’s best experienced with just the cover as your guide, and what a gorgeous cover! I loved the exciting scavenger hunt across Europe and the heartfelt clues from a grandfather to his granddaughter. The whimsy and humor is beautifully balanced with faith and overcoming truly painful betrayals. It’s an amazing story and I can’t wait for more!

Clara Stanton takes her family’s reputation and burdens directly on her slim shoulders. She firmly believes she’s the only one who can protect them, especially after her ex-fiancé threatens to expose a potentially damaging family secret. When her clockmaking, inventor Grandfather Drosselmeyer takes on a handsome, new apprentice, she’s immediately skeptical of Arthur.

Declared dead by his abusive father, Theodore/Arthur must rely on his talent for tinkering with clocks to make his way and is grateful for a new start. When Clara’s grandfather suddenly disappears in his owl flying machine, Clara, Arthur/Theodore, and her mother along with a growing menagerie of animals must work together as they follow Grand’s scavenger hunt clues across Europe all while trying to evade a vicious villain determined to obtain the invention for himself.

I loved the character arcs of both Clara and Theodore/Arthur. Clara experienced the hard-learned lesson that she can’t control everything. I loved how her grandfather helped her regain her faith and excitement for exploring again. Little by little his challenges and beautifully written clues lead her back to herself before betrayal made her controlling and bitter.

Theodore had to learn his own worthiness. His abusive father made him feel completely less than and his mistakes felt like a self-fulfilling prophesy of his father’s words. In this adventure of seeking Clara’s grandfather, he’s forced to come to terms with his PTSD from the war and his father’s treatment, and realize his many capabilities. I also adored Mrs. Stanton and her fierce love of all creatures. Her antics were hilarious and heartwarming and kept me smiling throughout the book.

This is definitely a must read for historical/Victorian romance fans who enjoy a bit of whimsy, steampunk, and faith in the mix. I’m so excited to see what this author writes next. A truly impressive debut. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher via AustenProse PR. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4 1/2 stars!

A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure
by Angela Bell

Miss Clara Marie Stanton is determined to save her family from her villainous ex-fiancé, who is equally determined to see them ruined and thrown into an insane asylum. And Clara is sure that Arthur, her Grandfather Drosselmeyer's new apprentice, is a spy hired to help her family into ruin.

Her family sees things differently, and when her Grand decides to use his flying machine to visit Europe, Clara is left scrambling to follow the clues he's leaving for her. Can she save those she loves? Or will her attempts fall short, leaving her behind a cold hard wall of her own making?

This was a delightful read; it had little threads throughout that brought to mind The Nutcracker. And I loved the Steampunk feel that was a subtle underlying, yet important, pivotal driving force behind Clara's search. Clara's search takes her from Victorian London to various locations throughout Europe. Dreams, crushed hopes, broken hearts, and unexpected adventures. This is a story of family and love.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.

I have spent days trying to get into this book, and I have to say it's the writing style that is just not working out. It's a bit all over the place, with perhaps too much chatter and not enough description. Which is a rare thing to say for me, but it's true. So many characters talking in a scene feels chaotic, and then to throw in all the information about automatons. I wasn't entirely sure what genre I was reading. It had a bit of an alternate universe vibe.

Also, wasn't a fan of the dynamic between the FMC and MMC. She was awfully rude with what seemed very little reason, once she realized he wasn't there as a spy. I could appreciate her concern, as someone who is protective of their family as well, but seems to me that she was given enough evidence to know he wasn't a bad guy. He was very cheerful all the time but then had this big mysterious side. I don't know, just couldn't get a good read on either of the characters to feel particularly interested in reading more.

DNF at 20%, may pick up later but for now, I am moving on to something else.

Wasn’t a fan of this book, especially the first half. Clara was annoyingly rigid. I get why she’d have trust issues & be protective- but it got old listening to her whine about how no one understood why she had to protect her family & how hard it was.
I liked Theodore’s character, and Grand & Mrs S were unique & diverting. All the inventions were a tad out there for me though. The best parts were what some of Grand’s letters said about God & trusting Him.