Book Review: ‘A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting’ by Sophie Irwin

I don’t usually read a lot of historical romance, but this one proved irresistible. The recommendations promised ‘witty’, ‘fun’ and ‘sassy’ which I’m absolutely here for, so I was pleased to be granted a copy by NetGalley for review. As always, opinions are entirely my own.

The story opens in 1818 with Kitty Talbot being jilted by her fiance who was – let’s face it – her meal ticket and answer to the problem of what to do with crushing inherited debt and younger sisters to support. She has twelve weeks before she loses her home, so needs a drastic solution. Luckily, Kitty is extremely resourceful and willing to lie, cheat and deceive her way into bagging a rich husband. Along with one of her sisters, she throws herself into the London season, but her route to success is barred by the troublesome Lord Radcliffe. As time gets tighter, Kitty ups her game – but is it enough to save her family from poverty?

Kitty is an appealing heroine – although her ultimate goal (a rich husband) is mercenary, she isn’t portrayed as someone who is cruel or grasping. Instead, Irwin contextualises her need within the Georgian marriage market where men are free to make the most lucrative matches but women are stymied by society’s rules and constraints and forced into passive roles. Although the book is packed with Georgian etiquette and expressions, Kitty’s situation is seen through a modern lens – as intrinsically unfair, with odds stacked against poor Kitty, but a rigged game that readers want the underdog to win. Even when toying with the hearts (or bank balances) of rich men, Kitty is presented sympathetically – and her male targets unworthy of this strong, resourceful woman.

All that sounds very serious, but that isn’t the tone of the book. Instead, Irwin presents us with an upbeat, often funny jaunt through Georgian high society as Kitty forges her way through formal dinners, balls, pleasure gardens, chaperoned visits and excursions, There is a sharp humorous undercurrent throughout the book that highlights quirks of character and tricky situations.

For me, one of the stars of the book was Aunt Dorothy, the friend of Kitty’s dead mother who helps the girls launch themselves into London society. As a former courtesan, she faces meeting gentlemen in formal situations that she has met rather more intimately (ahem), but this never deters her from throwing herself into Kitty’s plan with enthusiasm. She is warm, funny and generous – the kind of person you need in your corner. Kitty’s sister, Cecilia, is also an absolute treasure, being awkward, bookish and prone to quoting obscure literature at baffled gentlemen – definitely the most relatable character for this bookworm! It’s fair to say that Irwin writes women well.

The romance seems to unfold quite gradually and credibly – it’s pretty obvious from the start where it is all heading, but the route there is so much fun. This is one book where you just need to throw yourself into the joy of it all and enjoy Kitty’s climb through society.

This book would be enjoyed by those who love historical fiction with a strong female lead. Lots of reviews mention Georgette Heyer fans and yes, if that’s you, you’ll like this too. Personally, I cut my teeth on Georgian romance in my teens through the books of Amanda Quick which I’d also recommend (although they are a little racier than Irwin and Heyer – don’t say you weren’t warned!)

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Header photo by Sandy Millar on Unsplash