My Edenbrooke Book Review - No Spoilers
Plot Summary
Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson is a Regency romance that follows Marianne Daventry, a seventeen-year-old longing for the peace and freedom of the countryside after too long in dreary Bath. When she’s invited by her twin, Cecily, to the grand estate of Edenbrooke, Marianne jumps at the chance to escape unwanted suitors and city monotony. Her journey isn’t without peril—a frightening encounter with a highwayman sets the tone for the unexpected twists ahead. At Edenbrooke, Marianne finds herself drawn into an uneasy friendship (and growing attraction) with the estate’s utterly charming heir, Philip Wyndham. Their connection deepens through stolen moments, playful banter, and real vulnerability. But secrets, family loyalties, and misunderstandings threaten to upend the budding relationship. Set against the backdrop of English countryside, the story blends innocent romance, witty repartee, and just enough adventure to keep every page engaging.
Why I Love This Book
I love how Edenbrooke captures the spirit of classic romance while still feeling fresh. The slow-burn dynamic between Marianne and Philip is delicious—their dialogue is witty, full of teasing, and softly charged with longing. Marianne is relatable: awkward, imaginative, braver than she thinks, but never a typical debutante. I felt every bit of her yearning for simplicity and a place to belong. Philip isn’t just a dashing hero—his warmth and playful side make all the heartwarming (and heart-stopping) scenes really shine. I found myself rooting for Marianne’s happiness, laughing out loud at her mishaps, and grinning over the very real chemistry. The book is so easy to read: I breezed through chapters, caught up in the feel-good escapism, the romance, and the lush English setting. The story is “clean” but never boring—there’s emotional depth and payoff without graphic detail. The ending left me with a happy ache, the kind you only get from a romance that’s deeply satisfying, honest, and swoon-worthy.
Who Will Like This Book
If you adore Jane Austen, love “proper romance,” or want a comfort read that doesn’t compromise on emotion, you’ll fall for this book. Edenbrooke is great for fans of clean historical romance, witty dialogue, country estates, and soft, slow-burning love stories. If you like innocent heroines, teasing heroes, and rich side characters, you’re in the right place. There’s some mild peril (highwaymen, a little adventure), but nothing graphic or dark—just pure romantic escape.
⚠️ Trigger warning: Minor violence (highway robbery, swordfight), references to loss of a parent. But otherwise this read is gentle and safe for most teens and adults.
Tagged As
historical romance, Regency romance, clean romance, country estate, witty banter, slow burn, found family, twins, mistaken identity, swoony hero, quirky heroine, comfort read, first love, inheritance, coming of age, open-door romance, light suspense, standalone, inspirational, classic vibes, friendship, family drama
Steam Level
All the steam is in the meaningful looks, fluttering hearts, and hand brushes. There’s no explicit content, nothing more than chaste kisses and longing glances. It’s safe to share with anyone who loves their romance heartfelt and PG.
