★★★★ The Rules of Falling For You by Mollie Rushmeyer | A Contemporary Romcom with a Regency-Era Twist
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book from the author and publisher. All thoughts are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.
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About This Book:
She thought she knew the rules of love. Turns out, love makes its own.
The perfect match can't be far--certainly not at a Regency-themed singles' retreat--or so podcaster Zoe Dufour believes. After years of creating content for her relationship podcast inspired by Regency etiquette and era-appropriate rules for romance, she knows her listeners have anticipated this retreat. But she also attends with expectations of her own: finding the ideal modern-day gentleman who can meet every one of the nonnegotiables on her checklist.
Harrison Lundquist, Zoe's podcast producer and best friend's brother, reluctantly agrees to tag along on the retreat to capture footage while seeking a career-advancing promotion. He views the retreat as ridiculous. And Zoe's methods for finding her real-life Mr. Darcy? Downright absurd! But as he films her whirlwind dates, his growing feelings for her are sidelined by suitors vying for her attention. When Zoe realizes her checklist for the man of her dreams might be holding her back, she must decide if she's willing to rewrite her rules and take a chance on the person who has been there all along.
"The writing is smart and sassy with humor and touching moments sure to please lovers of rom-coms, Regency romance, or Jane Austen period dramas."--JULIE KLASSEN, bestselling author
This clean and wholesome romance presents a Regency-infused spin on a contemporary rom-com with the grumpy/sunshine, he falls first, and best friend's brother tropes. Readers of Melissa Ferguson, Pepper Basham, and Julie Klassen will find this read delightful.
MY REVIEW: ★★★★ 4/5
HIGHLIGHTS:
Best-friend’s Older Brother
Regency-Era Inspired
Podcaster Heroine
Hilarious Side Characters
He Falls First
From the very first chapter, this book hooked me with its romcom charm and Jane Austen flair. I loved the unique storyline of a Regency-era retreat where characters hope to find true love. It was both fun and entertaining. Zoe Dufour is a strong, independent podcaster who also lives with chronic illness, making her feel authentic and relatable. Harrison Lundquist was the perfect gentleman, his mix of sarcasm and genuine adoration for Zoe made me cheer for him and Zoe even more.
The cast of characters was delightful, full of humor and heart and I found myself laughing out loud more than once. The romance had wonderful chemistry, a great pace, and an engaging storyline that kept me turning pages. I especially appreciated the faith thread woven naturally into the story, because it added warmth without overpowering the romance.
Overall, this is a heartwarming, funny, and romantic read that I highly recommend for fans of Pride and Prejudice, Jane Austen-inspired stories and clean, contemporary romances. Mollie Rushmeyer is definitely an author I’ll be returning to!
About the Author:
Image courtesy of Baker Publishing Group
Mollie Rushmeyer writes whimsical romance with heart and humor. She has a deep and abiding love for all things British, bookish, and filled with history and mystery. A modern girl herself--she wouldn't want to go a day without modern plumbing and central air!--she's always felt a special connection to the past and anything with a happily ever after. Her debut novel, The Bookshop of Secrets, was a finalist for a 2023 Carol Award. A born and bred Midwestern gal, Mollie makes her home in central Minnesota with her husband and two spunky, beautiful daughters. Learn more at MollieJRushmeyer.com.
