I enjoyed this so much! It’s 2:30am and I’m still awake because I HAD to know how this played out, and I’m seriously considering buying and starting the next one straight away.
I wasn’t sure what to expect with this and historical romance isn’t my genre of choice usually, but if Emily Rath writes it, I’m going to read it, and I’m so glad I did.
A firey, sassy FMC who knows what she wants is always a winner for me.
Three best friends all falling for the same girl and wanting to share will always make me swoon.
I’m totally invested in this series now and need more.
I felt so many emotions reading this. Visceral hatred for some of the ladies, annoyance at George, anger at the dowager and giggly at the interactions between the 4 main characters.
On to book 2!

It’s been a long time since I’ve read a Regency romance. And it being Emily Rath and why choose just makes it that much sweeter. Now this is formally indie published and my first time reading it. I do not know if anything was changed, but I will say it. It’s exactly what I expected from her and I do not know why I waited so long to read it. In this, we have our FMC who doesn’t want any ties of marriage due to how her father treated her mother
I really liked all the guys. My problem is a why choose as I can never pick one! I like them all and this was no different. I will say that how she ended that was so mean I need to know what happens next and yes, looking at it. The independently published is still available, but I don’t know if there’s anything else changed so now I have to wait… I need to know what happens next!
I never thought I would want or need a regency why choose romance, but now I do! I think I will be searching for more.
Thank you to Kensington for the complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I didn’t realize that this book has polyamory in it, had I realized I would not have requested it. That’s on me.

I typically love historical romances so if that type of content doesn’t bother you then give it a chance.

“Beautiful Things” by Emily Rath is a slow-burn romance with plenty of emotional depth—but it didn’t fully hit the mark for me.

There’s no denying Rath can write complicated, wounded characters. The emotional tension between the leads is palpable, and some scenes really tugged at my heart. I appreciated the exploration of trauma, healing, and the idea that love doesn’t magically fix everything but can be part of the process.

That said, the pacing felt uneven. The first half had a lot of introspection and buildup, which sometimes dragged, while the second half rushed through some plot points I wanted more time with. The romantic payoff was satisfying, but it didn’t quite justify the length or the slow progression.

Also, while the writing was poetic in places, it occasionally tipped into overly flowery territory for me. And I wished the supporting characters were fleshed out a bit more—some felt like missed opportunities.

Still, if you’re into emotionally complex love stories with a heavy dose of angst and healing, this might be your thing. Just go in knowing it’s more of a character journey than a plot-driven romance.

This book has some of the things you’d expect from a historical romance - fancy dresses, accomplished young women, dashing gentlemen (and rogues), class politics, strategic marriage plans, fancy parties in beautiful country estates etc
It also has the unexpected - namely outspoken Rosalie Harrow. Left deeply in debt after having lost both parents - the father longer ago and not so much a loss - she’s called to visit a duchess she learned used to be a friend of her mother. From there her life is turned upside down, especially after meeting three exciting men that - while they aren’t changing her mind about locking herself in the cage of marriage - more than catch her attentions.

A why choose historical, this story has been a blast so far. The burn is slow, but there’s swoon worthy material throughout. I look forward to seeing how the relationships continue to play out.
The social politics fell in line with a lot of other historical books, but as a refreshing change you have men being made to understand the precarious situations women are put in, and why that has them struggling to make advantageous matches

I knew this was part of a series, but had thought the books were of the interconnected standalone type. I was wrong. This one ends in a place where I am absolutely in need of the rest of the story!

I really liked this book!
It was a bit slow in parts, definitely slow burn, so if you’re expecting things to happen as fast as say Pucking around, it won’t.
But I thought this book was done really well.
I liked all three men. Renley was great, James is interesting, and Bourke is my favourite I think.
I liked the twists and turns, but was expecting a *little* bit more spice. I’m hopeful for the second book!

Beautiful Things is an overall fun read if you're a fan of recent period dramas, like Bridgerton.

Historical romance is not my typical genre, but I've been basically reading back-to-back romantasy & romance for a few months now so it was time I took a break from my go-to's.

Like her Jacksonville Rays Hockey Series, Emily Rath develops this almost fantasy-like world within Regency England where an unmarried and near-destitute woman catches the eyes of three men...and doesn't settle for just one.

Overall, the romance is fun, the story flows well, and it felt like I was watching a TV show. Even though I was entertained, I just didn't find myself overly invested in the story or its characters until the very end.

One of the top Goodreads reviews by Mina ReadsTM says "Emily Rath is a deeply unserious person and I love mess" is absolutely accurate. Emily Rath's humor in this book is spot on and had me giggling at multiple moments.

I am excited to continue this series because of the cliffhanger.

I am new to the "why choose" genre so maybe I am not the best person to review this. I thought the author did a good job balancing everything, and in reference to the genre it's almost like she has to work 3 times harder than a regular romance writer would! Maybe because there were so many people in this book, I don't think I believed in any of the characters really being in love. That's usually my test for a great romance novel... I just want to believe that these people would do anything for each other. Lot of good stuff going on in this book, though. It's quite funny, especially the banter between the guys. And in terms of setting and atmosphere I think she gets it right. I did love Rosalie. Super likable character, fun to spend time with as a reader. Was kind of bummed the book ended not with a HEA tied with a ribbon... I didn't know you had to read the whole series to get full closure. All in all pretty fun though.

I haven't read any of Emily Rath's other books, but might just have to check some out after reading Beautiful Things.

This is a fun, naughty, Regency era, "why choose" story about feisty Rosalie and three very different, handsome men who, against their better judgment, all seem to end up falling for her. There are multiple POVs, lots of banter, jealousy, simmering tension, antics, drama, meddling, and forbidden thoughts and actions.

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the second instalment to see where it goes. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the chance to read it.

"Crashing a country house party in Regency England, an intrepid young woman is drawn into the orbit of three delicious gentlemen in this slow burn, very sexy, definitely-not-your-mother's historical romance from internationally bestselling author Emily Rath.

At twenty-two, Rosalie Harrow is unmarried and near destitute. She has two choices: snag a wealthy gentleman, or take work as a governess. Neither option appeals to headstrong Rosalie, who sees both futures as a kind of cage.

When Rosalie receives an invitation to Alcott Hall, she believes she's there to meet the Dowager Duchess of Norland, the mysterious childhood friend of her late mother. Instead, Rosalie is thrust in the middle of a house party of eligible high society ladies all desperate to win the hand of the new, conveniently single duke. Hilarity ensues as Rosalie dodges the attentions of the officious duke, and weathers the censure of the other guests, all while trying to unravel the mystery of her invitation.

And then there's the gentlemen...

The more Rosalie tries to avoid the high society husband hunt, the more she finds herself charmed by three very different men. There's Lord James, the duke's younger brother, who is the secret duke in all but name. Lieutenant Renley, recently returned from the West Indies, and begrudgingly looking for a wife of his own. And the tempestuous Mr. Burke, who irks Rosalie to no end.

The clock ticks down the days to the Michaelmas ball, when the duke is set to announce his bride. Marriage is a trap and Rosalie will not be easily snared...but that doesn't mean she can’t enjoy the chase while it lasts."

Well... Rosalie could always set up as a high class courtesan if marriage isn't to her liking.

My ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Admittedly, I’ve burned myself out on Victorian romances but when an Emily Rath ARC needs reading, what is one to do? I enjoyed and appreciated the many Jane Austen Easter eggs and I’m eager to read the next book to find out will George, Burke, and Tom marry their intended? Will James and Rosalie help them sort it all out? Will ANYONE get a happily ever after in this house?

Emily does such a great job making me feel like I am reading a contemporary book that also happens to be historical if that makes sense.
Rosalie is one of my favorite FMCs, she's strong but also listens to her heart even when she knows it might get her into trouble. I knew from the second she punched that man outside the Inn that I was going to fall in love with her and I'm 90% sure Burke knew then too. Speaking of Burke, he's my favorite. I shouldn't have a favorite but thay man was down bad from the beginning and didn't even really try to hide it. Like maybe a little but also not at all. He wants Rosalie and he's going after her fully knowing all her reservations and I love watching him do so with Tom right by his side. Tom too tried to find himself a nice wife so he can advance his career and decided well actually Rosalie is perfect I'm all set with her. Seeing them come together was wild because A. This is historical fiction! We're they freaks back then?! (Yes) but also I didn't read the synopsis so I didnt know what I was getting into so imagine my surprise when things started happening. I'm expecting... like nice respectful romance, I dont know why Emily Rath wrote this and I knew that, but like maybe she toned it down? No. Theyre forking! I will say the fact that they have so many clothes on does make the undressing scenes hotter for some reason, not necessarily sure why. I just love everything about this and the side characters are great too. Like I love/hate Geroge and all the girls and their attempts at flirting and making themselves look good while also just going on field trips sound fun, like a early days bachelor/bachelorette show. Come to my mansion for a season to complete with other women to see if we should get married! I'll house you, feed you, and entertain you! Sign me up. Yeah ypu have a chaperone but I mean if Rosalie can have a hot girl season why can't i? I also loved her and James. The animosity, the arguing, the ending.... I can't wait for the second book!

Really wanted to love this one but the writing style isn't for me. That being said its such a fun concept - mixing a popular genre like why choose with historical is so lively and unique. The mix of tension from the why choose elements and slow burn usually found in a historical romanced mixed well.

After reading Beautiful Things, I’ve settled on a 4 star rating. I don’t think Emily Rath can write something I won’t love. Is it long? Of course. But the slow burn, reverse harem, and emotional payoff are so worth it.

It’s Pucking Around, but make it historical; wildly unrealistic, gloriously open-minded characters, and totally addictive. Overall I loved this read and will definitely be recommending it!!

I really wanted to love this book. I was into it until about 80% when I realized there was no way it was going to wrap up by the end of the book. I'm sorry, but a romance need to end with an HEA not a to be continued.

It was a good read, I just felt let down by having to wait for more.

Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for an arc. All opinions expressed are my own.

I truly regret not reading this series sooner! The tension and build up that is created with the FMC and all three MMCs was delicious. Not to mention, the giant moment that changes everything for two of the three MMCs. I could put it down and immediately went to book two!

Rosalie Harrow refused to be caged ever again. She suffered through having a lout of a father and then through her mother’s debilitating illness and death. She wasn’t going to chain herself to another man through marriage! It didn’t matter that the brooding Burke sent sparks through her each time they barely touched. It didn’t matter that the handsome Lieutenant Thomas Renley’s casual touches created waves of hot flashes up and down her spine. And let’s mention what the glances of the Duke’s brother, Lord James Corbin, does to Rosalie’s insides. All three of these gentlemen would be good marriage choices. But did she need to choose?

I thoroughly enjoyed Dr. Emily Rath’s book “Beautiful Things: Deluxe Limited Edition”. As typical of regency romances, it had a slow start. The hesitancy of a young lady to be too forward. The restraints that British high society puts on its unmarried ladies. These and similar themes all contribute to that slow start. Once the story starts developing though, things get very interesting. It’s not often that a regency romance weaves together the lives of more than one man and one woman. This time it’s three men and one woman! There is good use of the phrases and vernacular of the time period. I appreciated the listing of the British social hierarchy and found it helpful. Anyone who enjoys spicy regency romances would enjoy this book. I can’t wait for the next installment of the “Second Sons” series so I can see where the cliffhanger we are left with leads!

I wish to thank Kensington Publishing for providing me with this book and selecting me to review it on NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are my own.
#kensingtonpublishing #beautifulthingsdeluxelimitededition #regencyromance
#netgalley

If ever there was a book that left me wanting more! Can. Not. Wait. for the follow-up. I thought I knew what I was in for, and was surprised by the ending!

Regency romance meets why choose!

I hate that I waited so long to read this cause Dr Emily, this was amazing.
Give me an Emily RH any day and I already know I'll love it.

I'm just waiting for the boys to love on each other though 🤣

Rosalie thinks she knows what she wants but the men of Alcott Hall are making her question herself!
A great start to the trilogy!

Thank you NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!

Emily Rath knows how to write tension and slow burns! You get a lot of that in this book. I am always a why choose fan so I was excited for this one. I'm interested to see where book 2 goes. There were times it was quite slow, even for a historical romance. Will still be reading book 2!