This was a cute, fast read that reminded me of Night at the Museum and Kate & Leopold. You definitely have to suspend belief and it could be incredibly cheesy but sometimes, that's just what you need.

Centuries ago, Sir Griffin de Beauford was cursed by a ruthless enchanter to see, hear, and think, but never to move or speak. Griffin suffers the long, lonely centuries trapped in stone until Emily Porter, a recently divorced conservator at the Art Institute of Chicago, is tasked with restoring the statue of a medieval English Knight. Breaking curses was not part of the job description but here he is, the man of her dreams come to life, resplendent in shining armor.

It was entertaining following along as Griffin adjusted to the modern world. The romance that develops between Griffin and Emily is sweet but felt a bit rushed. I suppose the instalove works on Griffin's part considering he's a literal Knight who's spent centuries cursed as a statue but I was hoping Emily would've needed a little more time.

Since Emily was in charge of the restoration, when the statue goes missing she becomes the prime suspect in the FBI's investigation. I enjoyed that storyline but it did feel like the “art theft” was resolved a little too easily.

Knowing this is being made into a Hallmark movie has me curious so if it happens, I’ll definitely be checking it out!

**Many thanks to Berkley and Bryn Donovan for an ARC of this book provided via NetGalley!**

Emily Porter would give ANYTHING to keep her mind off of her recent divorce....but luckily for her, her job as an art conservator at the Art Institute of Chicago is about to provide a delightful distraction. A new statue has arrived, and it's a doozy: a handsome medieval knight, and it's Emily's charge to restore the statue and bring it to its full potential. But what Emily DOESN'T know is that there is a lot more than meets the eye when ti comes to this particular statue, and isn't just an actual name (Sir Griffin de Beauford). After an incredibly spicy dream about the statue (in his human form) Emily is besotted and realizes she can actually HEAR the statue's thoughts....and is even more surprised when she learns there is still a soul in the statue, cursed for centuries...and guess who can provide a 'magical' kiss to break the spell?

Once she does, Sir Griffin indeed comes to life, and he's every bit the swoon-worthy proper gentleman she expected. The only problem is well, he just stepped out of another time period...and might be more than a BIT conspicuous on the streets of the Windy City. Emily takes him under her wing and tries to get him up to speed on the wildly different world he now encounters, getting him vaccinated, explaining everything from showers to cell phones to him with varied levels of success. As they spend time bonding, the initial spark between them has turned into a steady flame and Emily even sees a future for them...IF she can keep everything under control. But unfortunately for her, as the person assigned to restore the statue she is also the prime suspect in the statue's "theft"...and she isn't sure how long she can keep the wolves at bay. Will this unlikely pairing 'parry' their way forward as a couple? Or will the long arm of the law lock Emily up...for good?

I went into this book expecting a light and fluffy romance, but let me just warn you...imagine a newer friend telling you their uh, 'spiciest' dream in vivid detail. You don't even know your FRIEND that well, and now you're learning all sorts of 'details' about what they like and don't like, or might fantasize about before you even know their favorite restaurant or some equally innocent proclivity...and as someone who prefers slightly tamer romances, it was CERTAINLY an eye opener. There's nothing wrong or overly TMI in this scene, but having it so early in the book when so many romances provide such a slow burn where you have to wait till 50-70% in for so much as a KISS sometimes? Let's just say you should have a handkerchief for dabbing your forehead nearby!

Once I got over this initial jolt, and got to know Sir Griffin (in a bit more of a PG way!) he was certainly every bit the stereotypical chivalrous knight, with plenty of historical accuracy tossed in to 'flesh him out'. While he seemed to adapt to certain facets of modern life with little question (the fact that he didn't so much flinch at cell phones after a bit seemed a little unlikely, but hey!) there were plenty of comical mishaps throughout the way and instances of Emily sort of guiding and having to explain how the world (and more specifically Chicago) functioned. Although this was a solid way to get to know the characters, I do wish there hadn't even been mention of Emily's former flame, because it really wasn't needed and didn't need to be a HUSBAND, that's for sure. The character read a bit young overall (despite her proficiency in her career), so in that way I honestly wish the author had just intentionally aged her down a bit. So much of this story isn't rooted in any sort of reality anyway (at least, I don't think it is....) that it would have been fun to keep it as more of a light romp rather than nodding at some emotional baggage here and there.

Although it probably goes without saying, a HEAVY dose of suspension of disbelief is required to make it through this one with a multitude of eye-rolls. As much as it is all in the name of good fun, the whole 'art thief' plot line especially seemed far fetched (to put it mildly) as I'm pretty sure the Art Institute has cameras in every room (especially guarding expensive statues), not to mention guards, security, other employees, etc. I know, I KNOW, it's supposed to just be fun...but if this were a movie a la "Night at the Museum" (Ironically!) you know the audience would be all over the plot holes. To me, this is also the aspect of the book that sort of took my rating down a bit, as it was harder for me to just let go and feel completely immersed when so much of what was going on in 'reality' didn't make too much sense. The big third act romantic conflict could easily be chalked up to minor miscommunication (at worst), so yet again, in a book so heavily relying on fantasy, a DUSTING of reality would have been nice. Optional, obviously, but nice.

Perhaps the one nod to reality that I DID see and truly enjoyed was the setting of this story - Chicago. If you haven't been there yourself but you HAVE watched Ferris Bueller's Day Off, then you probably have a pretty good idea of what to expect in that regard. The author did an excellent job nodding to familiar landmarks, local traditions (the green river for St. Patty's Day, which I never got to see when I lived in the Midwest, but is truly iconic in its own right), and just the general 'vibe' of Chicago...enough so that when I finished this book, I actually MISSED it. Although my one actual encounter (that wasn't Midway Airport) revolved around going to a concert and not actually exploring the city streets, even driving past the stunning skyscrapers and feeling the 'beat' of the city was nothing short of magical. (Yes, that may also be a reference to "Beat City", a song also used in Ferris Bueller...and I swear, that wasn't even intentional!)

Although my left brain may have won the day when it came to this read, this book proved one point that's worth repeating: chivalry's not dead...it's just been in hiding.

And who better than a woman to bring it out?

3.5 stars

Thank you to Berkley and NetGalley for my complimentary copy of Her Knight at The Museum. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This is the perfect read when you need to escape from all of that is going on in the world today. It really is an unbelievable story. Go into it with an open mind and you will have a fun time.

Magical Realism
Knights in Shining Armor
Fairytale Ending

If you enjoyed My Roommate is a Vampire then you will enjoy this as well.

Her Knight at the Museum by Bryn Donovan is a charming and unique blend of romance and historical fantasy. The story centers around a museum curator who unexpectedly falls in love with a knight from the past, brought to life through an ancient artifact. Donovan’s writing is full of wit and heart, balancing humor with the suspense of the couple navigating their unusual relationship. The chemistry between the protagonists is palpable, and their interactions are both tender and amusing. This book is an enjoyable, lighthearted escape that will appeal to fans of romantic fantasy and time-travel romance alike.

This book had so much potential. I loved the slim ties to Enchanted. However, I was looking for deeper themes and character development. It just didn't work for me. That's most likely a case of it was me and not the book though, and I truly recommend it to other romance lovers out there. It brings the cute and silly cheese.

3.5 stars (rounded up)

If you’re looking for a full-on rom com with a little bit of magic, Her Knight at the Museum just might be for you. Author Bryn Donovan writes a tale that is full of humor, hijinks, and heart. And who doesn’t love a literal knight hero who is completely gone for the heroine the minute he sets eyes on her?

While reading the novel, I felt it had a sort of cinematic quality to it. The narrative really swings for the fences, which I think would translate well to the screen. In fact, I think I would have enjoyed this story more if it had been movie, because the setting and story would absolutely come to life in a new way.

Readers who are looking for something funny, soft, and a little over-the-top will should definitely check out this book.

What a fun and cute story! I loved Griffin and was so happy to get a lot of his internal monologue and thoughts. I thought that he and Emily clicked well together and were so cute. While aspects were campy (come on, just look at the cover), I spent a lot of time smiling, laughing, and just enjoying the ride. I will say that the book follows an insta-love storyline, but that actually didn’t bother me this time. I don’t know if it’s because Griffin just conveys his feelings so well or if it made more sense to me with this storyline.

The one thing that I always think during a time travel or ghost romances where they become corporeal again is, “WHAT ABOUT A SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER?!?! HOW WILL YOU GET ANY SORT OF JOB OR ANYTHING LIKE THAT???” Luckily that is handled by the end of the book, so that was a relief that someone actually thought of that for the end of the story lol.

Tropes: insta-love, he falls first, knights in shining armor, lighthearted, low-angst

If you are looking for an entertaining romcom that will help you escape reality for a while, look no further than Her Knight at the Museum!

The story follows Emily Porter, a recently divorced conservator at the Art Institute of Chicago. Emily has been tasked with restoring a statue of a medieval English knight for an upcoming exhibit. As she begins her task, she keeps imagining that she hears the knight speaking to her, which is crazy, right? Well, when Emily gives in to the voice she’s hearing and kisses the knight, imagine her surprise when he actually comes to life!

It turns out that Sir Griffin de Beauford really is, in fact, a medieval English knight, who was presumed dead in the late 1400s, but who was actually cursed by a ruthless enchanter and turned into a statue. For all of these years, he has been able to see, hear, and think, but has been unable to move or speak. Emily’s kiss has apparently broken the curse and now Sir Griffin must learn how to navigate the challenges of 21st century America, with Emily’s help, of course.

Oh my goodness, this was just so fun and so cute! You definitely have to suspend disbelief and just go with the flow since the concept is a little out there, but once you do that, it’s just such a good time and the chemistry between Sir Griffin and Emily is just perfect! Their interactions have the perfect blend of knightly chivalry and spice, and I couldn’t resist rooting both for Sir Griffin to find a way to successfully live in modern society of course for he and Emily to find their way to a happily ever after.

If you enjoy movies like A Night at the Museum or Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, this book would be a great choice for you!

4 1/2 STARS

This book had so much potential. I normally really like romance with magical elements, but this one didn’t fully work for me.

Books with similar vibes:
•Jen Deluca’s Well Met series for the ren faire vibes
•Just Like Magic by Sarah Hogle
•A little India Holton, but contemporary

I had an OK time reading this one, but unfortunately I didn't love it like I thought I would. I do love the concept and the cover- gorgeous!

Things I didn’t like-
Griffin was giving horny “Buddy the elf” vibes and at times, it gave me the ick. It was kind of a strange dichotomy that he was a virgin but also extremely sexual because he had been stone for so long.

“My dove, you know well there is one thing that would ease my body and soul as nothing else would do.”

“You bind and torment my heart, and grant me no relief, and yet I desire nothing but to be in your power.”

“How long must he wait? It had been only days since he’d met Emily. Men had waited longer for a woman, God knew. But it had been centuries.”

I did find his earnestness and eagerness for human connection to be somewhat charming. There is a scene where he gets to the doctor’s office waiting room to sing. He is just so happy to be alive again.

I also never fully loved Emily’s character. Her divorce and ex-husband’s cheating has left her incredibly insecure. She feels that there is nothing that makes her truly special and Griffin is only staying with her because he has imprinted on her. I didn't get a good sense of Emily's personality... she is quiet and reserved but I wanted to see her have more fun and let go.

The humor is full of puns; her presentation is on “how to date medieval sculpture” which she does literally. She has a dog named Andy War-howl.

Overall, the story just didn’t fully click for me. Despite his earnestness. I found Griffin to be immature, too prideful and too focused on taking their relationship physical. Emily was a tough character as well because she was insecure, and I didn’t like how she didn’t appreciate her friendship with Rose at first. I think this plot had so much potential, but unfortunately it wasn’t executed well for me.

Thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Romance for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Wow this romantic Reed really smart, my romantic interest. I especially love the story, plot, the characters, including Emily and Griffin and her coworkers and her friends.. Thwnk you NetGalley and Berkeley for the ARC ofthis amazingly romantic novel. Highly recommend to all romantic lovers.

🗡️ Book Review 🗡️

Her Knight at the Museum by Bryn Donovan
🗡️
I really wanted to like this one. The premise sounded so cute, and it gave me “Kate and Leopold” vibes. However, it started on a weird note with Emily lusting after a statue and having a dirty dream about it. Then, when Griffin came to life, they were immediately deeply in love. It was the most insta-lovey story I’ve ever read. Besides that, the entire book campy, cheesy, and a little cringey. If you like Hallmark movies, you might enjoy this one, but it wasn’t for me.
🗡️
My rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️🌶️
🗡️
Read if you like:
▫️he’s a medieval knight
▫️she’s an art conservator at a museum
▫️they’re from different worlds
▫️dual POV
🗡️
Thank you to Berkley Romance, Berkley Publishing, NetGalley, and Bryn Donovan for the ARC. I received an advanced copy for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.

I think a lot of people will love this fun romcom, which felt like a mix of Night at the Museum and Kate & Leopold. It was cute, funny, and had just enough spice to cement its place amongst the spicy cartoon covers we are used to seeing.
I really wish I enjoyed it more, but don’t take my review/rating as a warning because I genuinely think it will be a hit and most people will like it.
I just felt annoyed by the whole thing and Emily bugged me. She seemed desperate for love and attention, so much so that her inner monologue regarding the statue was weird to me. Then, when he came alive, she beat herself up over being boring and not attractive enough for him, but was just as much insta-loving him as he was her. Idk, it just didn’t hit right for me and I’m not sure why, but it was cute and I think people will enjoy it!

A cute read that's pretty low stakes despite the premise of a statue of a medieval knight coming to life and having to adapt to life in modern day Chicago.

Emily and Griffin were sweet together and the author did a nice job of showing his struggles of adjusting and some of the things she had to teach him. Well this was a fun story with some moments that made me smile and laugh.

I did feel like the pacing of the story was a bit slow at times and the writing style wasn't my favorite. However, I did enjoy it overall and would be interested in trying another book from the author.

This was a fun, unique romance! I don’t usually go for books that mix fantasy elements with modern-day storylines, so I went into this book a little skeptical but was pleasantly surprised! The whole story centers around an art restorer who brings to life a knight in shining armor! What follows includes a whirlwind romance, complete with a theft investigation—you know, tale as old as time.

I will admit, the story hooks you right away! I think the author really nailed the pace and balanced the romance, the museum elements and a bit of a Chicago tour as well. I thought we got to really know Emily and Griffin, although now I want more from Rose, would love to see her get her own story! And as someone who has fond memories of Medieval Times, I absolutely loved how that was woven into this story!

Cute book to pick up when you need to turn off your brain and just enjoy a cute story, even as far-fetched as the premise may be!

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

3.5 stars.

"Her Knight at the Museum" by Bryn Donovan is a fish-out-of-water, he falls first, time travel romance where a man named Sir Griffin de Beauford, who was into a stone statue by his ex-best friend, comes to life before Emily Porter, a Chicago museum conservator. Griffin must learn all about our modern world with his ancient sensibilities, and Emily, who does not like change or danger or excitement, has to navigate the world she has always known with a man from the 1400s. This story is sooooooo goofy and campy and Hallmark-esque, but I found myself charmed by its silliness. The dialogue Griffin espouses will read as cringe to many readers, but I thought it was very fun and funny. Griffin quickly learns that Emily, and more specifically modern women, do not mince words and are allowed to speak freely, unlike in his time. He has to learn about different kinds of s3x, contracept1on, bras, email, modern-day shopping, cars, television, crowds, etc. I am typically not a fan of insta-love romances, but I think it works for this kind of a story when one of the characters was, you know, set in stone for hundreds of years? This story is also much spicier than I expected! In fact, this spice flows freely and wonderfully. Griffin was very enthusiastic, again, probably has to do with him being stuck in stone for a bajillion years. I would not be surprised if this book becomes a Hallmark Channel romance movie in the next few years. You'll either love or hate this one, and I enjoyed it for what it was. It's not my favorite book of the year, but it was a solid, fanciful read!

Thank you to NetGalley, Bryn Donovan, and Berkley Publishing Group for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.

This was absolutely not for me. There were things I didn't love from the onset and unfortunately, those items did not approve. The premise of this one could be fun, but I didn't really like Emily and found her relationship with Griffin did not work for me either.

I was ready for a fun/silly time, but Emily just never felt silly or fun enough for me. She kind of grated on me and when she started lusting after the statue right away, it just felt weird and that feeling off wrongness permeated throughout the book for me.

I know a few people who really loved this one though and read it very quickly, so I do think this just wasn't the right book for me.

I did like the historical items and the archival sections; it made me very nostalgic for library work and research. I also saw this is set to be adapted by Hallmark, which considering the on-page sex is surprising, but I imagine an adaptation could be really good.

Her Knight at the Museum follows Emily, an art conservator who has just gotten over her recent divorce and is looking forward to starting over at a new museum. When she is assigned to work on documenting and revitalizing a new statue, Emily is instantly enraptured by the historical knight to the point where she dreams of him at night. When she goes to work the next day, Emily is shocked to find that everything from her dream was real and she may be able to help him come to life.

This was such fun and quirky read! While a little bit campy, the romance and story were so sweet and humorous. I loved that Griffin was so chivalrous and bright, his reactions to modern life and love were comical. The chemistry between him and Emily was palpable, the contrast of Griffin's historical tone and upbringing worked so well with his unabashed desire for Emily and her love; the man was completely enamored. Overall, this is a very lighthearted and entertaining read full of humor, history, steam, and so many fun happenings; I highly recommend it!

Emily Porter is a conservationist working for the Art Institute of Chicago tasked with restoring a medieval statue of a knight the museum recently acquired. When she hears the statue speaking to her in her dreams and while waking, she thinks she's gone a little crazy.

The statue is Griffin de Beauford, a knight who has been awake for centuries, only able to communicate to people around him in dreams. He's lived a lonely existence in country estates for centuries, but Emily's kiss awakens him and thrusts him into modern-day Chicago.

Griffin and Emily have more problems than a romance across the centuries when Emily becomes one of the prime suspects in the theft of the statue from the Art Institute.

Recommended for any reader wishing they could go back in time and snag themselves a knight.

Representation: divorced main character

Cursed and turned to stone, Sir Griffin has been trapped for centuries, longing to be free again. Emily, an art conservator, feels a connection to the statue, he even came to her in a dream. When a chance kiss breaks the curse, Griffin is free and runs amok through the museum. Getting him out of the museum was the easy part, but now what?

As Emily helps Griffin navigate the present, their feelings develop, but who knows if this is forever. And how does one immerse oneself and find a place in the modern world? Emily is hoping she'll keep her job now that her project is suddenly... missing. So much at stake, could a romance work as their worlds converge and an investigation hangs overhead?

Their adventures traipsing through Chicago make this rom-com a fun swicy read!

Imagine the movie Night at The Museum or Splash! but 100x hornier. 🤭 The combination of hilarious fish out of water scenes and filthy spicy scenes made for a really fun time!

Sir Griffin being cursed in medevil times to become a statue and finally waking up in 21st century Chicago was a great premise. Him interacting in the modern world were my favorite parts of this book. When he got everyone singing in a waiting room to pass the time was GOLD. I also really enjoyed the historical tidbits such as Griffin’s loathing of actors.

With all that being said Emily and Griffin’s relationship was way too rushed for me. I also didn’t find either of them to be particularly interesting they just lacked some depth. Overall I had a fun time and I think a lot of people will love this one.