"An engaging, uplifting read. Treat yourself to a delightful, effervescent romantic comedy, featuring appealing characters in a novel plot strewn with unexpected twists.” —Stephanie Laurens, #1 New York Times bestselling Author

"Grab a cup of hot tea and a delicious scone because Suzanne Enoch has written a sparkling, fresh new book. SOMETHING IN THE HEIR will delight fans of both Julia Quinn and Jane Austen with its witty banter, rich family dynamics and scintillating humor. This book is going straight to my keeper shelf!" --Karen Hawkins, New York Times bestselling Author of The Book Charmer

03/01/2023

For eight years, Emmeline and William Pershing have enjoyed a companionable marriage of convenience. When fate failed to grant them the child required to satisfy the strict inheritance rules of Emmie's grandfather, the Duke of Welshire, she simply invented an heir, plus a sibling for good measure. The imaginary offspring serve her well, until the Duke decides to throw himself a birthday party and demands their attendance. Surprisingly, Will is more amused than appalled by Emmie's ruse, and they conspire with an orphanage to employ two of their charges to portray their pretend progeny. The impish pair they select, however, may be more likely to steal their silverware than their hearts. Enoch ("Wild Wicked Highlanders" series) crafts a delightful tale of deception. Though slated as a Regency romance, the story focuses more on falling in love as a family, with sparing allusions to attraction. Narrator Sarah Nichols creates a lively listening experience, with captivating, often comedic voices for all. From adolescent to aristocratic, her characterizations are engaging and amusing. VERDICT This audio will appeal to listeners seeking heartwarming historical humor with a dash of romance. Recommended for fans of Maya Rodale, Martha Waters, and Elizabeth Everett.—Lauren Hackert

Narrator Sarah Nichols sounds like a full-cast recording in this rom-com whose ending is never in doubt. Good friends but never lovers, Emmeline and Will marry so Emmeline can keep her family home, Winnover Hall. If after five years no heir is apparent, she will lose the estate. Eight years pass with no issue, so, with a family reunion looming, the couple “borrow” two children from an orphanage to act as their own. Nichols is convincing as each character, and she’s absolutely delightful as the two street urchins with sticky fingers and a shadowy past. Each character—from the faithful butler to the children’s ne’er-do-well brother—has a credible personality and an identifiable voice. Nichols’s performance will keep listeners laughing throughout this lighthearted romp. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine