I keep trying to read historical romance, and I just don’t think it’s really for me. I do *like* it, but I haven’t really read any that I *love*. This was another that I liked but didn’t love. And I don’t really have a reason for it, but it just didn’t entirely sweep me away. However, I have no other criticisms, and I think others who love historical romance will love this one. First, it’s written very well. And second, the characters are all so lovely. But the whole aspect of the FMC having amnesia, and not knowing who she is, is what may really reel others in, for third.

I loved the ending to this, but I don’t want to spoil it, so I can’t really say why. But if you’re a lover of historical romance, I would say to definitely pick this one up!

Emma Theriault's A Lady Would Know Better is a captivating historical romance that intertwines mystery and emotion. The story follows Jasper Maycott, the reluctant Earl of Belhaven, who discovers an injured woman with amnesia on his estate. Known only as Jane, she struggles to recall her past while forming bonds with Jasper and his family. Theriault's portrayal of Jane's strong spirit and the mystery surrounding her identity keeps you engaged in the story.

The romance between Jane and Jasper, however, feels somewhat rushed and lacks depth at times. Despite this, their interactions are filled with witty banter and palpable tension, making their relationship intriguing. The depiction of grief and healing is particularly poignant, adding emotional richness to the narrative.

While the central romance may not be entirely satisfying, the supporting characters, especially Jasper's siblings, are charming and well-developed. They add warmth and potential for future stories.

Thanks to NetGalley, Emma Theriault, & Entangled for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Jasper Maycott, the Earl of Belhaven, and his siblings are locked away in their country estate after their world fell apart and they lost their parents and older brother. Together but separated by their grief, they're surviving day to day by not talking about it and stewing in their feelings. Until a walk on the grounds leads to the discovery of a bleeding and nearly frozen woman who asks Jasper, “Don’t let them get me.” 'Jane' woke up with no memory of who she is or her past, just a feeling of loss and the bearing of a lady. This unusual guest might just be the push the Maycotts, particularly Jasper, need to rejoin life and remember that love is always worth it.

You get instantly hooked into "Jane" and the Maycott's lives. The empathy is real and immediate because the characters practically breathe out of the pages. You want Jane to get her memory back and figure out a way to be with Jasper. You want the rest of the Maycott siblings to find joy and heal from their trauma because Theriault quickly makes it feel like you know them. She does a great job of laying down threads that leave you wanting more time with them so you can see them find happiness.

I was hooked by the plot and the characters; I just wish Theriault didn't constantly veer into maudlin, overwrought sentimentality. It is justified for the characters and what they're experiencing and what they went through to be feeling big emotions, but I'm not a fan of wordy descriptions of them that make a sentence into a paragraph. Whenever it takes an entire paragraph to describe how a character is feeling and the majority of the story is about the characters' feelings, it quickly gets old.

Very happy thanks to NetGalley and Entangled: Amara for the read!

Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is my first book by this author and it is a historical romance with themes of family trauma/loss, second chance at love, amnesia, and a lot of Jane Austen references.

Jasper Maycott and his sisters are facing their first Christmas at the family estate after a year of mourning. Jasper is a second son, who never expected to suddenly inherit the title, but illness took his brother, and father, as well as the love of his life in the past year. He went from being a care free younger son, about to marry his childhood love, to being a brusque dour head of an earldom, and responsible for the well being of his younger siblings and estate. With all their recent losses and his new responsibilities, he finds it hard to find a moment to breathe, let along find any joy in life.

The last thing he expects to find, when forced by his sisters to go out into the wintry countryside, is an unconscious woman in need. They return with her to the manor and nurse her back to health, but the woman now named Jane, does not remember why she was wandering about in a storm, and how she ended up injured on their estate. Jasper is especially concerned, because he keeps secret from the others, including Jane, the fact that as he was carrying her to safety, she came to long enough to make a plea to him, "Don't let them get me".

He is a knight in tarnished armor as he tries to balance his growing attraction to Jane with his vow to his dead fiancee to never love again, and the concerns he has about who the strange woman is, and what it may mean for the safety of his family. Add all this onto his unresolved grief and the conflict his new demeanor causes with his family, and toss in an unexpected house party and meddling friends and relatives, and there is plenty of family angst and drama.

There were definitely some aspects of this story I enjoyed, such as the secondary characters such as
Jasper's sisters, and even the meddling, but ultimately misunderstood aunt. But I also found issues with the historical accuracy such as the so-called debutante gown loaned to Jane. The story was long and there was some repetition and the language at times was not right - how many times does the term "Stern bastard" have to be used? But also the latter part of the story, which resolves the mystery of why Jane was found injured and unconscious, and pleading for safety, was dealt with as if it were an after thought and lacking in logic as to her and Jasper's behaviour, especially as Jane did not appear to be as impulsive and lacking sensibility and thought in other parts of the story, and her behaviour at that critical point was thoughtless and impulsive.

Also, considering what Jasper knew of her plea for safety, and his own feelings that have developed about her, as well as not knowing the person she went with, why did he let her go so suddenly like that, in the middle of the night, at a ball??? Sure, it's dramatic, but it just does not make sense!

2.75 stars out of 5

This was my first venture into historical romance, and I had a pretty good time reading this as it gave me Bridgerton vibes. The prose flowed nicely, and the plot kept my attention for the most part. I enjoyed Jane's character and resilience despite her circumstances, and I loved her relationship with the other Maycott women. Jasper, on the other hand, annoyed me a bit with how wishy-washy he was. The book did feel like it dragged a bit in the middle as I felt like nothing was really happening... but it picked up in the last 25% and I needed to keep reading to find out what happens with Jane. Overall, it was a fun and cute story that's perfect for winter reading!

Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

A Lady Would Know Better by Emma Theriault is the slowest of burns that is perfect for fans of Julia Quinn and Laura-Lee Ghurke!

Meet Jasper, Earl of Belhaven and rescuer of an unconscious ‘Jane’ who he finds injured on his walk.

The plot kept me hooked from the get go, regency romance is absolutely my thing and I enjoyed every moment learning about the mysterious ‘Jane’, and the guarded Jasper. The tension throughout the story with ‘Jane’s’ amnesia kept me on my toes. Jasper, and his family have been navigating heartbreak and loss - cue ‘Jane’ the mysterious woman who has lost her memory and a beautiful ray of sunshine that brings some light back into their lives. Their interactions are both heartwarming and funny, the connections ‘Jane’ makes with Jasper and his family are beautiful. But that leaves the question - who is ‘Jane’? And what will happen if her memories come back.

This is a story of love, loss and healing. A beautiful depiction of the vulnerability of grief and finding joy again. This grumpy x sunshine pair was an absolute delight. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.

Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for providing me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

'Jane' fell off her horse, lost her memories and was taken in by Jasper and his sisters. They care wonderfully for her and try to help her get her memories back. Of course there are feelings between 'Jane' and Jasper. Alas, it's complicated.

Liked the writing and characters and hope this'll be a series. There are a lot of family members who need a HEA.

When Jasper Maycott, the Earl of Belhaven, finds a woman unconscious and nearly frozen to death, he is stunned when she awakens to plead, “Don’t let them get me.” However, when she next wakes, she has absolutely no memory of who she is or where she came from. His sisters and aunt decide to hide her plight, naming her “Jane” and allowing his newly arrived guests to believe that she is soon to be married and from industry. Jasper is uncertain whether she is a crafty fortune hunter or truly suffering from memory loss. What he is aware of is his growing feelings for her, despite the lingering sense of loss after the death of his past love, his parents, and his older brother. Unwilling to give his heart to another, Jasper denies his feelings until he can no longer hide them.
I so enjoyed all the characters, particularly Jasper’s two sisters. The romance was sweet with a slow burn. There is plenty of witty banter between siblings as well as between Jasper and ‘Jane’. At times, I wished that there was less internal dialogue by Jasper, as it did tend to draw out the story more than necessary. However, an enjoyable romance, and I look forward to reading more about Jasper’s siblings.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

A Lady Would Know Better by Emma Theriault delivered a historical romance filled with mystery, family and Jane Austen vibes. Find out what happens when the Earl of Belhaven finds a woman in the snow, unconscious and nearly frozen, who whispers, “don’t let them get me.”

I was in the mood for a light historical romance when A Lady Would Know Better came across my desk. I was intrigued by the thought of what would an Earl do when he finds a woman half-frozen, who suffers from amnesia?

Jasper, the Earl of Belhaven, has his hands full. A recent plague robbed him of his parents, his fiancée and his older brother. He now finds himself the Earl and responsible for his sisters and the lands they keep. It has only been a year and the holidays are upon them.

When Jasper finds the lady, for she appears to be a lady with delicate hands and dress, she is injured from what appears to be a fall from a horse. Before she loses consciousness, she says, “Don’t let them get me.” He fetches the local doctor, and his sisters fuss over the stranger. He’s unsure what to do and naturally his sisters want to keep her.

The tale that unfolds has us gathered in the Belhaven manor as the family faces their first holidays without the loved ones they lost. The young woman, while recovered, doesn’t even know her name and they call her Jane.

The story unfolds slowly, but I enjoyed getting to know the sisters and the interactions between Jane and Jasper. I loved the sisters, particularly the youngest. The family teasing and affection for one another felt genuine, and it was heartwarming to witness. These are good people who care for their tenants. The oldest sister invites Jasper’s friends for a small gathering, and they find themselves with a houseful. It pushes Jasper to face the death of his love, parents, and brother. The story is as much about healing as it is about the mystery of Jane and the slow burning romance.

Jasper is drawn to her, but also keeps putting his foot directly in his mouth. It was delightful to watch. Jane was demure yet spirited and I like her, even if both she and Jasper got in their own way.

A local ball gives Jane answers, but are the memories told to her truth? The author weaves in suspense, touches on some atrocities women faced and created the circumferences for Jasper to find himself and claim what he wants. Admittedly, I was mad at Jasper at this moment, but I believe his action where how gentlemen behaved.

Fans of Jane Austen, family sagas, romance, and a touch of mystery will enjoy A Lady Would Know Better.

Amnesia in Victorian times...

I really liked Jasper and Jane. Jasper is the unexpected Earl of Bellhaven. He was the spare and thoroughly enjoyed being a vice chasing, pleasure seeker. However, his life of leisure was abruptly changed after scarlet fever took the lives of Annabelle, who he loved and those of his parents and older brother. His parents had a lot of children, as Jasper is now the guardian to his three younger sisters and a younger brother. He is struggling as the earl and is miserly with his emotions, since he doesn't have more to spare.

Jane is witty, is found wounded in the snow and brought to the Maycott's manor to recover. She wakes up not knowing who she is, adrift. Jasper is skeptical of her, as is his aunt. His family is charming and funny.
The books is engaging and both Jasper and Jane have their own arcs.
Recommend.

Good book. Has romance and a mystery. A woman is found in the snow injured and has amnesia, and the Earl of Belhaven rescues her. A must read!

As soon as I read the first chapter, I preordered this book that blends humor, romance, and history so expertly!

I received an eARC for this book from Entangled Publishing and I loved this book! I love regency romances and this book had everything you wanted but was such a breath of fresh air. The amnesia trope is not one you see often in regency books (I’ve only seen it once) and adds such a different take. The miscommunication between Jasper and “Jane” is just perfect and never gets annoying. Their strong pull makes you root for them so hard and the spice was the perfect amount and just amazing for their love. I highly recommend this if you’re looking for an open door regency romance that has standout qualities.

The Earl of Belhaven finds a woman in the snow who can’t remember a thing, but her semi-conscious warning “Don’t let them get me,” drives him to keep her safe at all costs.

I LOVE a good regency romance, and this was such a unique one for me with so much angst! The earl and “Jane” are drawn to each other, but without knowing her background how could they ever be together? 💔

The mystery of what happened to her is riveting, and I loved the Earl’s simultaneous want to help her and keep her with him. 🔎

“Jane” herself is a fantastic character, even without remembering who she is. She’s so strong and spirited, kind and quick-witted, even while going through such a trying time.

Lovers of regency romance, definitely give this one a try! You’ll swoon while trying to solve the mystery. 🕵️‍♀️

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

Thanks to Entangled Publishing for the copy.

Did they just meet two days ago and are now confessing they love each other? Yes. Do I hate instalove? Yes. Do I mind it here? Absolutely not.

Historical romance never fails to deliver on the best romantic tension, and Theriault's debut is no exception. In no other genre do I squeal and kick my feet over hand grazes and lingering looks. There was a Mr. Darcy hand flex moment and I had to put the book down. The writing can be a little too formal at times, but I was so invested in these two idiots that it didn't bother me. I have my guesses for who the next books will be about (one of which was already confirmed) and I am buckled in and ready for more from this author!

I really enjoyed Jasper and Jane/Hetty’s story.

Jane/Hetty was so well written. She tried so many things to see if she could remember anything about her or why she appeared to be on the run. I really would have loved more scenes with Hetty and her sword.

Jasper is your typical lord. He was dealing with grief and shut everyone out but he also came across as he just knew better at times.

I hope all of his siblings get their own books.

Thank you @entangled_publishing for the ARC.

I have stayed away from historical romance for a minute,but when I had the opportunity to advance read this book, I took a chance.

I am glad I did! 💙

From the premise,to world building and secondary characters,to Jasper and "Jane" grumpy to sunshine,it had all the quality "ingredients" that make a good romance novel click for me.

Although the pace was a bit slow for my liking, I was invested and really wanted to know what was in store fir these characters.

I also love discovering new authors and Emma Theriault is a new to me author,so double win!

When I found out, there's a second book coming, I was thrilled! 🥳

I am definitely looking forward to it!

Thanks Entangled Publishing! 💖

I wanted to love this Regency Era romance with an interesting amnesia trope. BUT unfortunately I found it exhaustingly long and repetitive, and even when the plot picks up, I feel like it leaves a lot to be desired in how it all plays out.

First, my general thoughts
- It feels repetitive to hear the same interactions from both Jane and Jasper back to back, its just them pining for each other. This happened a lot during the duration of the book, they would be having a conversation or experiencing some sort of attraction or emotion, and then the next chapter would rehash exactly what I just read about in the previous chapter, except from the other POV. But they have the exact same thoughts and attraction so it was just VERY repetitive.
- Maybe I am not a regency romance girlie, but the constant back and forth of what is right and proper across every single chapter was exhausting.
- “Stern bastard” was used to describe Jasper so many times I felt like we needed to have at least a little variety in his description...
- The story wasn’t really picking up until the last 20% and even the excitement was not enough to bury the inconsistencies and relative plot weaknesses...

Jasper, der neue Earl of Belhaven, und seine Geschwister haben ein schweres Jahr hinter sich. Als sie am Geburtstag ihrer verstorbenen Mutter eine verletzte, bewusstlose Frau im Schnee finden, ändert sich alles. Bevor sie erneut das Bewusstsein verliert, warnt sie, dass sie in Gefahr ist. Doch als sie erwacht, hat sie ihr Gedächtnis verloren – die Familie nennt sie „Jane“ und nimmt sie bei sich auf.

Ein Großteil der Geschichte dreht sich um das Rätsel um Janes Identität, während sie der Familie hilft, ihre eigene Trauer zu verarbeiten. Zwischen ihr und Jasper knistert es von Anfang an, doch gesellschaftliche Konventionen und die Ungewissheit über ihre Vergangenheit stehen im Weg.

Mich hat vor allem die spannende Auflösung um Jane gefesselt. Die langsame, gefühlvolle Romanze hat perfekt zum Ton der Geschichte gepasst, und die Nebenfiguren bieten jede Menge Potenzial für weitere Bücher. Ich bin gespannt, was als Nächstes kommt!

A historic romantic mystery - seems like a perfect set up for a book. It almost was. I was entertained and enjoyed the book, however, I felt like some scenes were too long and the book could have been shorter. Some of the banter between Jasper and Jane seemed to be repeated throughout the book and could have easily been wrapped up sooner.