Trouble

The worst thing about reading a really good book is that sometimes it’s hard to know when to start when talking about it. This is one of those cases– this book is not only by my favorite romance author, but it’s based on my favorite childhood movie– the Sound of Music (yes, I would sit down for three hours to watch this movie about once a week from the age of four to the age of eight– it’s also the reason I learned how to work a DVD player).
This book, a Regency-era, queerer spin on the story, takes place in England, and also has a much more diverse cast of characters. I loved everything about this book, most of all the characters, who were all very well-rounded and very distinct in terms of personality, as well as very lovable and fun to read about, even if some of them considered themselves or each other unlikeable or terrible. The found family was certainly found-familying, even if our main character wanted them to or not.
The way that queerness is talked about in the book also deserves to be talked about, because it is taken seriously without really changing the tone of the book itself too much.
Overall, I would just say to read this book if you can, it drove me insane in a good way that I did not know historical romcoms were capable of.
Also one of the characters is literally me. Like name and everything. Some of the particular relatable traits are spoilers for the book itself, so I am not going to share, but I did relate so much that I cried a little bit. For the same exact reason I cried over a different Regency-era romance novel literally last week. I am very mentally stable

I got this ARC from @stmartinspress and @smpromance. I want to read anything and everything by @lexcanroar ! I loved, loved, loved Infamous and Reputation. So needless to say, I was pumped for this. And this hit the spot. I loved Emily and the Captain. I loved the whole found family in the household. Cannot say enough good things.

Reading one of Croucher’s books is like reading a warm hug. This publishes in 2024 and I can’t wait to own my physical copy.

When I found out I had access to this arc, I can't stress enough how quickly I downloaded my copy. Lex Croucher is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors, and Trouble is just the latest reason why, YES!, we can have it all in a Regency novel.

This novel is basically The Sound of Music with a refreshingly feminist, queer take. It has all the Regency vibes you love, with plenty of angst, a found family that is oh so endearing, and so much love and humor woven throughout. I think what makes this novel, and all of Croucher's work, stand out is that it's like a comforting escape that still feels so real, earnest, and grounded with a lot of heart.

As a side-note: those who like a lot of spice are not going to get a ton of it here, but there is plenty of tension that keeps you glued to each page. I consumed this is just a couple of days.

All in all, this may be my favorite of Croucher's yet, but I can't tell if it's because I just have a soft spot for a SoM retelling, or if Croucher just simply gets better with every book they write! I think it's probably a mix of both - it's a 5 star read for me!

God, Lex Croucher kills it again. Beautiful storytelling, laugh out loud funny moments, and the dynamic characters that I've come to expect and am never disappointed by. Will def be recommending to friends on release!

Are you a fan of the Sound of Music!? I am and I ate this up! This is probably my favorite Croucher novel I’ve read and I truly think she’s improving with every book she writes. The characters are delightfully queer but if you’ve read Lex Croucher before, this should not surprise you. I love when I love the side characters as much as the main characters and I just loved everyone in this book! This is turning more into a rave rather than a review but I enjoyed this reading experience so much I truly can’t contain myself! If you love queer regency romances with charming children and the Sound of Music you will definitely enjoy this novel. Highly recommend!

Trouble by Lex Croucher is one of the funniest books, I've ever read. Oh my goodness! I never had a book I enjoyed so much in one sitting. It was hilarious, loveable, and dramatic and just broke all barriers in the historical romance genre. Fantastic!

Add this to your 2024 TBR lists, you will not be disappointed.

10/10

Lex Croucher is to me what Emily Henry is to the rest of society.
I will read anything and everything she writes. I will sell my children that don’t exist for an early copy of her next book. I love her more than I love anything else in this world

This is my third encounter with Lex Croucher’s work and is my favorite of them all. Trouble is a romance like few others. It is well-written and all the characters are fleshed out and nicely developed. The witty banter and dialogue isn’t just saved for the MC, something I deeply appreciate. The romance developed beautifully and organically. There were dozen of lines that I openly laughed at.

Trouble also featured excellent reputation that didn’t feel forced. The pacing was well done. Truly, I have not a single complaint about Trouble and I’d highlight recommend it to romance readers.

It’s a 5/5 for me. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this title. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was so fun! Lex Croucher knows how to put a well balanced and hilarious cast of characters together. The conversations were quick and hilarious. The relationship growth between Emily and the children, the staff, and Captain Edwards built beautifully and believably. I loved this one and can’t wait to buy a physical copy to reread after the pub date!

Thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC.