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How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days
From the Sunday Times bestselling author of A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting comes a delicious new Regency romance…
Rich, handsome, and titled Lord Ashford, has every lady in England longing for his hand in marriage.
Everyone, that is, except Miss Lydia Hanworth – the only young woman Ashford wishes to marry.
Pressured into accepting Ashford’s proposal, Lydia has just ten days to free herself from her obligations before the engagement is publicly announced… what can go wrong?
Rich, handsome, and titled Lord Ashford, has every lady in England longing for his hand in marriage.
Everyone, that is, except Miss Lydia Hanworth – the only young woman Ashford wishes to marry.
Pressured into accepting Ashford’s proposal, Lydia has just ten days to free herself from her obligations before the engagement is publicly announced… what can go wrong?
384 pages, Hardcover
First published July 31, 2025
256 people are currently reading
11190 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Irwin
3 books1,398 followersSophie Irwin grew up in Dorset before moving to south London after university. She has spent years immersed in the study of historical fiction, from a dissertation on how Georgette Heyer helped win World War Two, to time spent in dusty stacks and old tomes losing herself in Regency London while researching this book. Her love and passion for historical fiction bring a breath of fresh air and a contemporary energy to the genre, and Sophie hopes to transport readers to a time when ballrooms were more like battlegrounds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 381 reviews
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August 19, 2025If the phrase, “ladies of the ton, frost yourselves!” does not appear somewhere in this book, I’m asking for a refund 🤣
July 30, 2025
I LOVE IT WHEN THEY BOTH ACT STUPID AND SILLY
June 29, 2025
I adored the first book by this author and was looking forward to this read.
Ashford, the most eligible bachelor of the moment, asks Lydia's aunt and uncle for her hand in marriage. This is quite out of the blue and she has no intention of marrying him. When she comes into her inheritance she intends to live with her brother and be independent.
Asked to a house party given by Ashford's cousin Phoebe and made to accept by her aunt, she plans with her brother to act atrociously and turn him against her.
There are a lot of characters, too many and I felt none of them were fully fleshed out. We didn't get enough time at the beginning to know Lydia before she started on her campaign and so I disliked her immensely from almost the word go. At first her behavior was funny but it continued on and on and became tedious and some of the pranks were plain silly. She got up on her high horse and stayed there for most of the book.
Maybe this book is not aimed at me as a reader. I like fun in stories but there was too much silliness in this one. Just didn't work for me.
Thanks to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
Ashford, the most eligible bachelor of the moment, asks Lydia's aunt and uncle for her hand in marriage. This is quite out of the blue and she has no intention of marrying him. When she comes into her inheritance she intends to live with her brother and be independent.
Asked to a house party given by Ashford's cousin Phoebe and made to accept by her aunt, she plans with her brother to act atrociously and turn him against her.
There are a lot of characters, too many and I felt none of them were fully fleshed out. We didn't get enough time at the beginning to know Lydia before she started on her campaign and so I disliked her immensely from almost the word go. At first her behavior was funny but it continued on and on and became tedious and some of the pranks were plain silly. She got up on her high horse and stayed there for most of the book.
Maybe this book is not aimed at me as a reader. I like fun in stories but there was too much silliness in this one. Just didn't work for me.
Thanks to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for an early copy of this book.
June 11, 2025
4.0 ★— As a lover of the movie How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and Sophie Irwin’s previous work, I was thrilled when I saw this book announced!
I’m happy to say it delivered on mostly everything I hoped for. Her trademark humor, wit, and charm that she infused into her other historical romances were all present, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Our heroine, Lydia Hanworth, is the wealthy granddaughter of a businessman. Despite her substantial dowry, her parents are determined that she marry a man with a title. Enter Lord Ashford: highly titled, extremely eligible, and quick to propose to Lydia at the start of the story. From there, the plot takes off, following Lydia’s mission to make Ashford call off the engagement himself.
What I loved most was how Lydia and Ashford begin with completely the wrong impressions of each other. In trying to embarrass him into ending things, Lydia unintentionally creates opportunities for them to see each other’s true selves. Watching Ashford’s personality gradually come through — and those quieter moments between the chaos where they begin to truly understand each other — was perfect.
That said, the prank war between them felt a bit too drawn out. After a couple of emotional heart-to-hearts, they would just revert to the same antics again, which became a little repetitive for me as a reader. I started to feel a bit of fatigue after the second or third cycle of this.
I also found the subplot involving an abusive relationship to be a bit out of place. While I appreciate historical romances that tackle serious issues — especially since the time period itself is naturally deeply steeped in inequality, classism, and misogyny — I didn’t think it integrated well here. I was so invested in the comedic and romantic elements that the darker subplot felt like a detour. I would have preferred that time be spent showing off more of the emotional connection and romantic tension between Lydia and Ashford, or giving us more of their banter.
That said, the colorful side characters added so many fun comedic elements to the world, and overall, this is a delightful historical rom-com and perfect for anyone in the mood for something light, witty, and romantic.
_____________
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
I’m happy to say it delivered on mostly everything I hoped for. Her trademark humor, wit, and charm that she infused into her other historical romances were all present, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Our heroine, Lydia Hanworth, is the wealthy granddaughter of a businessman. Despite her substantial dowry, her parents are determined that she marry a man with a title. Enter Lord Ashford: highly titled, extremely eligible, and quick to propose to Lydia at the start of the story. From there, the plot takes off, following Lydia’s mission to make Ashford call off the engagement himself.
What I loved most was how Lydia and Ashford begin with completely the wrong impressions of each other. In trying to embarrass him into ending things, Lydia unintentionally creates opportunities for them to see each other’s true selves. Watching Ashford’s personality gradually come through — and those quieter moments between the chaos where they begin to truly understand each other — was perfect.
That said, the prank war between them felt a bit too drawn out. After a couple of emotional heart-to-hearts, they would just revert to the same antics again, which became a little repetitive for me as a reader. I started to feel a bit of fatigue after the second or third cycle of this.
I also found the subplot involving an abusive relationship to be a bit out of place. While I appreciate historical romances that tackle serious issues — especially since the time period itself is naturally deeply steeped in inequality, classism, and misogyny — I didn’t think it integrated well here. I was so invested in the comedic and romantic elements that the darker subplot felt like a detour. I would have preferred that time be spent showing off more of the emotional connection and romantic tension between Lydia and Ashford, or giving us more of their banter.
That said, the colorful side characters added so many fun comedic elements to the world, and overall, this is a delightful historical rom-com and perfect for anyone in the mood for something light, witty, and romantic.
_____________
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 22, 2025
To be honest, at first I didn’t think I would end up enjoying it this much, but by the end I was so in.
The first third of the book was alright, but not my favorite, Lydia’s plots, despite her reason being understandable and fair, are just too much, her acting ends up being uncomfortable for a lot of people that have nothing to do with her problem, and it’s cringe more than fun.
Once Ashford discovers Lydia true intentions tho, the story, and characters, become way more enjoyable, with some very funny moments and remarks, their banter and little pranks war (even if sometimes silly) are hilarious, entertaining and even though I so agree with Lydia's points to Ashford about life, women situation and marriage, she did deserve him pranking her back.
The interactions between them are engaging, adorable and the highlight of the book; they start to truly get to know and understand each other, enjoy the other’s company and have some amazing moments of connection and vulnerability, of dept, and make the other see things from a different perspective; Ashford especially really listens and grows from things that Lydia points out to him. They, and the readers, both find out that there’s so much more to the other than what appeared at the start and I empathized a lot with both of them. They are so cute together.
And there’s a good cast of secondary characters that make for interesting interactions and situations and I grow very fond of.
It’s also worth mentioning that the pranks stop at the right point, before it starts to feel they've gone on for too long, and in the last third of the book Lydia and Ashford become allies, so there’s a good progression that keeps the story moving. And in this last portion takes a more central place a secondary plotline that involves a mystery and an abusive marriage with an horrible, volatile, controlling, belittling man that and adds more realism and serious situations and themes to the general lightness of the main story and keeps the interest high.
The conclusion is well done, satisfactory, and I absolutely adored the last chapter.
Over whole, a really good, entertaining read, that does a good job of alternating many hilarious scenes with moments of more dept.
The first third of the book was alright, but not my favorite, Lydia’s plots, despite her reason being understandable and fair, are just too much, her acting ends up being uncomfortable for a lot of people that have nothing to do with her problem, and it’s cringe more than fun.
Once Ashford discovers Lydia true intentions tho, the story, and characters, become way more enjoyable, with some very funny moments and remarks, their banter and little pranks war (even if sometimes silly) are hilarious, entertaining and even though I so agree with Lydia's points to Ashford about life, women situation and marriage, she did deserve him pranking her back.
The interactions between them are engaging, adorable and the highlight of the book; they start to truly get to know and understand each other, enjoy the other’s company and have some amazing moments of connection and vulnerability, of dept, and make the other see things from a different perspective; Ashford especially really listens and grows from things that Lydia points out to him. They, and the readers, both find out that there’s so much more to the other than what appeared at the start and I empathized a lot with both of them. They are so cute together.
And there’s a good cast of secondary characters that make for interesting interactions and situations and I grow very fond of.
It’s also worth mentioning that the pranks stop at the right point, before it starts to feel they've gone on for too long, and in the last third of the book Lydia and Ashford become allies, so there’s a good progression that keeps the story moving. And in this last portion takes a more central place a secondary plotline that involves a mystery and an abusive marriage with an horrible, volatile, controlling, belittling man that and adds more realism and serious situations and themes to the general lightness of the main story and keeps the interest high.
The conclusion is well done, satisfactory, and I absolutely adored the last chapter.
Over whole, a really good, entertaining read, that does a good job of alternating many hilarious scenes with moments of more dept.
July 31, 2025
Happy pub day to this bright and cheerful and oh-so-silly delight!
Lydia is a force to be reckoned with, as Ashford soon finds out. To be clear: Their determination to conquer one another is a true comedy, with the romance coming second. Some of the tactics Lydia employs at the start are above and beyond cringe-worthy, but especially once Ashford starts swinging back with pranks of his own, it just turns fun. I do think the ending was a bit lackluster, but with romance playing second fiddle that doesn't come as a surprise. It does make me want to watch How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days to compare some plot points. I also think Pip's sleuthing was a fun addition, even if it did overshadow our main characters some where I would have liked more romantic development.
Overall a fun read, but don't come in expecting grand romance or big emotions.
pre-read
HTLAGITD is iconic and I feel like this will be too. Irwin's knack for wit and joyful writing should make this so so so fun (crossing my fingers that there's no love triangle and a strong FMC)
cover reveal //// I have a love-hate relationship with cartoon covers that leans more toward hate lately, but it's charming me a little bit
Lydia is a force to be reckoned with, as Ashford soon finds out. To be clear: Their determination to conquer one another is a true comedy, with the romance coming second. Some of the tactics Lydia employs at the start are above and beyond cringe-worthy, but especially once Ashford starts swinging back with pranks of his own, it just turns fun. I do think the ending was a bit lackluster, but with romance playing second fiddle that doesn't come as a surprise. It does make me want to watch How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days to compare some plot points. I also think Pip's sleuthing was a fun addition, even if it did overshadow our main characters some where I would have liked more romantic development.
Overall a fun read, but don't come in expecting grand romance or big emotions.
pre-read
HTLAGITD is iconic and I feel like this will be too. Irwin's knack for wit and joyful writing should make this so so so fun (crossing my fingers that there's no love triangle and a strong FMC)
cover reveal //// I have a love-hate relationship with cartoon covers that leans more toward hate lately, but it's charming me a little bit
Want to read
April 25, 2024I absolutely love this - guy falls first and chases after female, written by Sophie Irwin? Get out.
August 26, 2025
Giving it 5 stars because I generally don’t find rom com books I can get through. Cute. Warmed my cold, jaded, perpetually (lol dramatic but lowkey true) broken heart. Thanks for the rec and lending me your copy Emily!
Read
July 20, 2025This was so VERY well written! At some point, I had tears streaming down my face because I was laughing so hard.
How to lose a lord in ten days is only loosely based on the well known film. In this book, there are zero love ferns, and, not surprisingly, there is zero karaoke.
There is an hilarious, loyal brother, a villain and lots of secrets.
Lydia, our main character, is one of the funniest persons ever. She has no regard for reputation. Ashford is perfectly suited for her. The banter is of the highest level and for a while, I thought this was the whole plot: them bantering and teasing each other. And then the story turned out to be so much more than just that.
Without giving away too much, this book is about equality and very strongly so. This is what takes this book to a higher level and I am in awe of Sophie Irwin to create this.
How to lose a lord in ten days is only loosely based on the well known film. In this book, there are zero love ferns, and, not surprisingly, there is zero karaoke.
There is an hilarious, loyal brother, a villain and lots of secrets.
Lydia, our main character, is one of the funniest persons ever. She has no regard for reputation. Ashford is perfectly suited for her. The banter is of the highest level and for a while, I thought this was the whole plot: them bantering and teasing each other. And then the story turned out to be so much more than just that.
Without giving away too much, this book is about equality and very strongly so. This is what takes this book to a higher level and I am in awe of Sophie Irwin to create this.
May 12, 2025
Sophie Irwin’s first book was a worthy successor to Georgette Heyer’s witty Regency romances, and I read it thrice in the first week after my first reading and countless times since). I expected less from her second, because I’ve read all of Heyer’s imitators and most aren’t very good after even one book, but her second book was just as good. This is her third book, and it’s joining the other two in my list of books that I have read as soon as I’ve set eyes on them-and this has been in the middle of my work day ( extra long lunches and tea breaks). I love Irwin’s Regency romances because while they have all the familiar tropes you expect-strong willed heroines, good-looking male love interests, loads of banter and some pratfalls, there’s also enough for readers who enjoyed reading ‘Longbourn’, nearly as much as they enjoyed reading ‘Pride and Prejudice’-a slightly more nuanced look at the society of the time, and a wider cross section of society. There are other authors who have done this, but they tend to go overboard with their virtue signalling, and more often than not , are filled with anachronisms or just factual inaccuracies ( one very popular one that’s all over social media over the last 5 years, with one of those annoying pastel illustrated covers started off with the “plucky female protagonist” wanting to visit Oxford to see the alma mater of Newton! And she
succeeds-even Philip Pullman’s alternate universe Oxford University does not claim Newton as alumnus. Needless to say, I did not progress beyond the first page.)
Lydia Hanworth, intelligent, sensitive heiress is forced to accept a marriage proposal by Lord Ashcroft by her relatives and the diktats of society-who would ever think that the grand-daughter of a house-maid and woollen wear manufacturer would ever turn down an aristocrat and the opportunity to move up the social scale? Lydia wants love though, and is willing to hold out for it, and is supported in this by her elder brother Pip-imagine a delightful, slightly less absent-minded Thompson Twin ( Tintin, not 80s pop). The announcement is to be made in 10 days-10 days that Lydia’s going to spend at Ashcroft’s favourite cousin’s country estate, and that she sees as the perfect opportunity to utterly annoy Ashcroft so much that he breaks off the engagement. That’s easier said than done , though, and what follows is sparkling wit that had me laughing out loud ( and ineptly covering it up with a cough, at my office canteen!), compelling side characters, and quite moving romances. The ending was unexpected and I loved it-it was perfect for this story. I like that there are echoes of Heyer in the characters of her books, but she subverts them in excellent ways, without you feeling that these are 20th century attitudes imposed on the Regency-the language used, the way ideas are expressed; for instance, siblings of protagonists are either non existent or evil in Heyer, Irwin makes them fully rounded characters, and not superfluous. I also love all her little Easter Eggs-the very LOckhart-like Captain Von Prett, for one! ( and a character mistaking his name for Captain Von Pratt)
I’m so glad I have another Sophie Irwin to add to my other two well-thumbed comfort reads by her!
succeeds-even Philip Pullman’s alternate universe Oxford University does not claim Newton as alumnus. Needless to say, I did not progress beyond the first page.)
Lydia Hanworth, intelligent, sensitive heiress is forced to accept a marriage proposal by Lord Ashcroft by her relatives and the diktats of society-who would ever think that the grand-daughter of a house-maid and woollen wear manufacturer would ever turn down an aristocrat and the opportunity to move up the social scale? Lydia wants love though, and is willing to hold out for it, and is supported in this by her elder brother Pip-imagine a delightful, slightly less absent-minded Thompson Twin ( Tintin, not 80s pop). The announcement is to be made in 10 days-10 days that Lydia’s going to spend at Ashcroft’s favourite cousin’s country estate, and that she sees as the perfect opportunity to utterly annoy Ashcroft so much that he breaks off the engagement. That’s easier said than done , though, and what follows is sparkling wit that had me laughing out loud ( and ineptly covering it up with a cough, at my office canteen!), compelling side characters, and quite moving romances. The ending was unexpected and I loved it-it was perfect for this story. I like that there are echoes of Heyer in the characters of her books, but she subverts them in excellent ways, without you feeling that these are 20th century attitudes imposed on the Regency-the language used, the way ideas are expressed; for instance, siblings of protagonists are either non existent or evil in Heyer, Irwin makes them fully rounded characters, and not superfluous. I also love all her little Easter Eggs-the very LOckhart-like Captain Von Prett, for one! ( and a character mistaking his name for Captain Von Pratt)
I’m so glad I have another Sophie Irwin to add to my other two well-thumbed comfort reads by her!
September 1, 2025
Sophie Irwin, please keep writing books forever 🫶🏻🫶🏻
August 3, 2025
I’ve really enjoyed Sophie Irwin’s earlier novels. They’re fun, witty, and easy to get lost in. Perfect light reading with charming characters and satisfying arcs. Book two was a particular favourite, and Melville is still one of the more memorable romantic leads I’ve come across in the genre.
That’s why How to Lose a Lord in 10 Days felt like such a letdown. It leaned too hard on cliches, the central relationship never felt believable, and the characters lacked the spark and nuance I’d come to expect. I kept waiting to connect with them, but never did.
Still happy to keep reading Irwin’s work, but this one just didn’t land for me.
That’s why How to Lose a Lord in 10 Days felt like such a letdown. It leaned too hard on cliches, the central relationship never felt believable, and the characters lacked the spark and nuance I’d come to expect. I kept waiting to connect with them, but never did.
Still happy to keep reading Irwin’s work, but this one just didn’t land for me.
May 29, 2025
A brilliant spin of the movie how to loss a guy in ten days. Set in the regency era a woman is trying to get rid of her betrothed, a lord. Unless Andie Andersson she did not turn in a complete mess but rather chose the approach of embarrassing him Infront of family and friends. I adored the sub plots that were going on, may it be a secret love story or a theft to be solved. This is the perfect book for anyone who loves a good romcom and is impatiently waiting for the fourth season of Bridgerton.
Thank you Netgalley for the digital ARC
Thank you Netgalley for the digital ARC
July 31, 2025
A splendid regency romance that found me both guffawing and swooning, making Sophie Irwin a must-read author now for me. Brava!
July 7, 2025
Questo è il terzo romanzo di Sophie Irwin che leggo e il mio apprezzamento cresce di volume in volume.
Stavolta la protagonista è Lydia, appartenente a una famiglia di commercianti che si sono arricchiti con i lanifici e che da sempre ambiscono a imparentarsi con una famiglia nobile. Quindi, lei il fratello stanno cercando di raggiungere la maggiore età e prendere possesso delle loro rendite prima che i parenti riescano a combinare nozze di convenienza.
Purtroppo, quando la meta è oramai vicina, Lydia viene scelta come sposa da Lord Ashford, marchese e futuro duca, che necessita di introitare importanti masse di denaro con urgenza per preservare il proprio patrimonio e l’onore del proprio titolo.
I due non potrebbero essere più diversi: lei agogna libertà e una vita di pace e buone letture, lui è convinto di essere il sogno impossibile di ogni debuttante.
C’è un’unica soluzione: Lydia deve farsi scaricare da lui, evitando le nozze e un pubblico scandalo. Ma non è facile e c’è poco tempo, giusto 10 giorni.
Era da un po’ che non mi capitava di ridere così tanto, proprio ad alta voce, mentre leggevo un romanzo. Buona parte di questo libro si fonda su battibecchi divertenti, dispetti infantili e commenti acidi, e ho trovato parecchie scene ben calibrate, con dialoghi brillanti.
I dieci giorni di soggiorno nobiliare in campagna sono scoppiettanti, tra comprimari assortiti, un fratello detective provetto con un’indagine in corso, e una guerra non dichiarata tra fidanzati forzati e non convinti.
Scene preferite? Le uscite a cavallo, il profumo alla trota e l’esibizione serale di canto.
Stavolta la protagonista è Lydia, appartenente a una famiglia di commercianti che si sono arricchiti con i lanifici e che da sempre ambiscono a imparentarsi con una famiglia nobile. Quindi, lei il fratello stanno cercando di raggiungere la maggiore età e prendere possesso delle loro rendite prima che i parenti riescano a combinare nozze di convenienza.
Purtroppo, quando la meta è oramai vicina, Lydia viene scelta come sposa da Lord Ashford, marchese e futuro duca, che necessita di introitare importanti masse di denaro con urgenza per preservare il proprio patrimonio e l’onore del proprio titolo.
I due non potrebbero essere più diversi: lei agogna libertà e una vita di pace e buone letture, lui è convinto di essere il sogno impossibile di ogni debuttante.
C’è un’unica soluzione: Lydia deve farsi scaricare da lui, evitando le nozze e un pubblico scandalo. Ma non è facile e c’è poco tempo, giusto 10 giorni.
Era da un po’ che non mi capitava di ridere così tanto, proprio ad alta voce, mentre leggevo un romanzo. Buona parte di questo libro si fonda su battibecchi divertenti, dispetti infantili e commenti acidi, e ho trovato parecchie scene ben calibrate, con dialoghi brillanti.
I dieci giorni di soggiorno nobiliare in campagna sono scoppiettanti, tra comprimari assortiti, un fratello detective provetto con un’indagine in corso, e una guerra non dichiarata tra fidanzati forzati e non convinti.
Scene preferite? Le uscite a cavallo, il profumo alla trota e l’esibizione serale di canto.
July 26, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK and Sophie Irwin for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
4⭐️ | Out 31st July 2025
Did you like the film “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days”? If you did then this book is for you!
Miss Lydia Hanworth receives a proposal from the rich, handsome and titled Lord Ashford. There is one problem, she does not want to marry him. However the engagement is not to be announced for ten days.. Can she be jilted before the engagement is announced to save her reputation?
Having previously enjoyed Sophie Irwin’s previous books; “A Lady’s Guide to Fortune Hunting” and “A Lady’s Guide to Scandal”, I knew this book was going to be an instant winner for me. I love the conflict in her stories against the Regency setting of her books where a show of the ankle was deemed scandalous.
Initially both Miss Lydia Hansworth and Lord Ashford are so unlikeable (that is the point) they grow on you as their enemies to lovers dynamic blossoms. I enjoyed Lydia’s tactics to force Lord Ashford’s hand to call off the engagement. However these two idiots are just as stubborn as each other which makes for a great read. Sophie Irwin’s writing is easy to read but oh so quick and witty!
You will enjoy this if you are a fan of the Bridgerton series and the TV show The Gilded Age.
4⭐️ | Out 31st July 2025
Did you like the film “How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days”? If you did then this book is for you!
Miss Lydia Hanworth receives a proposal from the rich, handsome and titled Lord Ashford. There is one problem, she does not want to marry him. However the engagement is not to be announced for ten days.. Can she be jilted before the engagement is announced to save her reputation?
Having previously enjoyed Sophie Irwin’s previous books; “A Lady’s Guide to Fortune Hunting” and “A Lady’s Guide to Scandal”, I knew this book was going to be an instant winner for me. I love the conflict in her stories against the Regency setting of her books where a show of the ankle was deemed scandalous.
Initially both Miss Lydia Hansworth and Lord Ashford are so unlikeable (that is the point) they grow on you as their enemies to lovers dynamic blossoms. I enjoyed Lydia’s tactics to force Lord Ashford’s hand to call off the engagement. However these two idiots are just as stubborn as each other which makes for a great read. Sophie Irwin’s writing is easy to read but oh so quick and witty!
You will enjoy this if you are a fan of the Bridgerton series and the TV show The Gilded Age.
June 2, 2025
Thanks to HarperCollins and NetGalley for the preview. All opinions are my own.
OMG this was an absolute RIOT! I can’t remember the last time I laughed (and cackled and snorted) so much while reading. I’m not even the biggest fan of the movie “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” because apparently what I actually needed was for it to be a Regency house party with a starchy future duke!
The way Lydia and Ashford tormented each other truly had me in stitches. Each time they one-upped each other I was in hysterics. And the side characters! They were all amazing; between Pip and his investigations, the lusty widow with a fawning younger gentleman, and the intrepid “explorer,” there was never a dull moment.
But this also had more serious layers! There were amazing discussion of what women give up to marry (and sometimes to escape those marriages), same-sex loves having to hide, and an abusive husband. Some truly moving moments were mixed in with the humor.
I think this was my fav of Sophie’s books yet!
Highly recommend!
OMG this was an absolute RIOT! I can’t remember the last time I laughed (and cackled and snorted) so much while reading. I’m not even the biggest fan of the movie “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days,” because apparently what I actually needed was for it to be a Regency house party with a starchy future duke!
The way Lydia and Ashford tormented each other truly had me in stitches. Each time they one-upped each other I was in hysterics. And the side characters! They were all amazing; between Pip and his investigations, the lusty widow with a fawning younger gentleman, and the intrepid “explorer,” there was never a dull moment.
But this also had more serious layers! There were amazing discussion of what women give up to marry (and sometimes to escape those marriages), same-sex loves having to hide, and an abusive husband. Some truly moving moments were mixed in with the humor.
I think this was my fav of Sophie’s books yet!
Highly recommend!
August 5, 2025
[ 4 stars ]
i must confess, i have never watched how to lose a guy in 10 days. i know, i know, scandalous! i can't tell you if this is a 1:1 adaptation of the movie or just very loosely inspired, but i can tell you that i had so much fun.
i forgot how much fun historical romances could be and seeing our two main characters go through this prank war while having to navigate through formal society was very entertaining. it also helped that there was such a dynamic cast of side characters that have their own depths and aren't just there to serve as extras in the background.
lydia's initial attempts to make ashford jilt her did give me some secondhand embarrassment and at some point the prank was does drag a little but it was worth it to see lydia and ashford's developments as individual characters and as a romantic pair.
i must confess, i have never watched how to lose a guy in 10 days. i know, i know, scandalous! i can't tell you if this is a 1:1 adaptation of the movie or just very loosely inspired, but i can tell you that i had so much fun.
i forgot how much fun historical romances could be and seeing our two main characters go through this prank war while having to navigate through formal society was very entertaining. it also helped that there was such a dynamic cast of side characters that have their own depths and aren't just there to serve as extras in the background.
lydia's initial attempts to make ashford jilt her did give me some secondhand embarrassment and at some point the prank was does drag a little but it was worth it to see lydia and ashford's developments as individual characters and as a romantic pair.
July 17, 2025
4.5/5
Oh this book!!!! How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days is one of my favourite movies so when I read the premise for this I had high hopes. It was SO funny! I laughed out loud regularly. Irwin also weaves in a tender storyline about regency men and their FEELINGS. Thank you to Harper Collins Canada for the early copy!
Oh this book!!!! How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days is one of my favourite movies so when I read the premise for this I had high hopes. It was SO funny! I laughed out loud regularly. Irwin also weaves in a tender storyline about regency men and their FEELINGS. Thank you to Harper Collins Canada for the early copy!
August 30, 2025
3.75
Cute and fun. Easy to read and enjoyable.
Cute and fun. Easy to read and enjoyable.
July 31, 2025
Ok I did really enjoy this for the majority, so I’m rounding up, but I wish romance authors would stick to 300 pages, unless the story is super complex, it started to drag during the last third
Sophie Irwin is so good at mashing romcom with HR, this was an excellent nod to the movie, complete with yellow dress, love to see hero being gaslit and humiliated, love a genuinely clever heroine, love banter
Sophie Irwin is so good at mashing romcom with HR, this was an excellent nod to the movie, complete with yellow dress, love to see hero being gaslit and humiliated, love a genuinely clever heroine, love banter
August 8, 2025
4.5⭐️
how to lose a guy in 10 days is one of my favourite romcoms so you know when i saw there was a regency era version coming out that i had to read it.
i loved loved LOVED this book. i found myself wanting to go straight back to reading whenever i had to stop. it was cute and fun and the tension had me kicking my feet and giggling.
thank you netgalley for an arc of this!!
how to lose a guy in 10 days is one of my favourite romcoms so you know when i saw there was a regency era version coming out that i had to read it.
i loved loved LOVED this book. i found myself wanting to go straight back to reading whenever i had to stop. it was cute and fun and the tension had me kicking my feet and giggling.
thank you netgalley for an arc of this!!
August 3, 2025
Regency camp is an insane genre. This will haunt me (derogatory) (complimentary). The ending however is a FUCKING COP OUT which is why this is 3 stars.
August 19, 2025
It's been a while since I've been so addicted to a book that I stayed up late reading it...much less being that addicted to a historical, regency romance book. I was looking for something light and entertaining, but I wasn't expecting to be so delighted. Definitely one of my favorite new reads of 2025!
THE GOOD
1) That hate-to-love banter was so good! It was like all the best banter and grumblings and humor from Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashely in season two of Bridgerton. I honest-to-goodness laughed out loud a few times in the middle of the night.
2) I like that Sophie Irwin's novels don't follow the "rules" of other regency/Victorian romances. I like that the couples don't get together util the very, very end; I like that the male main characters aren't your typical, surly, womanizing rakes; I like that Sophie Irwin's novels are clean with no sex.
THE MEH
1) I wonder if the author was in an unusual rush for this book because I found a few dozen errors for formatting, spelling, and grammar.
2) I wouldn't have minded a little more resolution for the mystery part of the plot and for Lady Phoebe & Waldo.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Absolutely loved this book.
THE GOOD
1) That hate-to-love banter was so good! It was like all the best banter and grumblings and humor from Jonathan Bailey and Simone Ashely in season two of Bridgerton. I honest-to-goodness laughed out loud a few times in the middle of the night.
‘No,’ Ashford said, pressing her hand back against the table under his own.
‘Unhand me!’ she hissed at him.
‘If you try to eat your soup with a fork,’ he said out of the corner of her mouth. ‘I shall scream.’
Mere minutes ago, this prospect–mutual public humiliation–would have thrilled her, but now … She tried to peel his fingers off her hand. It was surprisingly difficult. He placed his other one on top of that.
‘What on earth are you both doing?’ Sir Waldo asked.
The table turned to regard them.
‘A little game,’ Lydia said. ‘Though I don’t think I understand the rules, my lord–where should I put my hand next?’
2) I like that Sophie Irwin's novels don't follow the "rules" of other regency/Victorian romances. I like that the couples don't get together util the very, very end; I like that the male main characters aren't your typical, surly, womanizing rakes; I like that Sophie Irwin's novels are clean with no sex.
THE MEH
1) I wonder if the author was in an unusual rush for this book because I found a few dozen errors for formatting, spelling, and grammar.
2) I wouldn't have minded a little more resolution for the mystery part of the plot and for Lady Phoebe & Waldo.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Absolutely loved this book.
July 11, 2025
How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days was all fun and games until it wasn't.
With absolute chaos and mayhem between Lydia and Lord Ashford, Sophie Irwin spun a brilliant and very meaningful, heartfelt story. With the title reminding me so much of the film How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, this story definitely delivered while also giving so much more that made it its very own. Strategically utilising the societal rules and expectations of proper Ladies and Lords of that time, the antics between Lydia and Ashford were endlessly entertaining. It was also not just about them though (although majority of the time it was), it was also about the other people around them. This made the story more complex, exploring wider and more serious themes, adding a mystery as well to the eccentric, rom-com Regency romance that brought me to this book in the first place. I was hooked from the very beginning and consequently the whole way through.
This was the first book in a long time that I struggled to put down. Sophie Irwin keeps upping the barre in the Period Romance Genre. I really liked A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting, and loved A Lady's Guide to Scandal, but How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days is just brilliant. It is my new favourite. A delightfully smart and witty rom-com Period Romance with serious undertones giving it more depth, I couldn't have asked for a better story.
I of course, have every single one of these books (How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days preordered). They bring me joy.
Thank you HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for an early uncorrected proof of this ebook in return for my honest review. This was such an easy review. This book was just what I needed for a cosy winter read.
With absolute chaos and mayhem between Lydia and Lord Ashford, Sophie Irwin spun a brilliant and very meaningful, heartfelt story. With the title reminding me so much of the film How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, this story definitely delivered while also giving so much more that made it its very own. Strategically utilising the societal rules and expectations of proper Ladies and Lords of that time, the antics between Lydia and Ashford were endlessly entertaining. It was also not just about them though (although majority of the time it was), it was also about the other people around them. This made the story more complex, exploring wider and more serious themes, adding a mystery as well to the eccentric, rom-com Regency romance that brought me to this book in the first place. I was hooked from the very beginning and consequently the whole way through.
This was the first book in a long time that I struggled to put down. Sophie Irwin keeps upping the barre in the Period Romance Genre. I really liked A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting, and loved A Lady's Guide to Scandal, but How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days is just brilliant. It is my new favourite. A delightfully smart and witty rom-com Period Romance with serious undertones giving it more depth, I couldn't have asked for a better story.
I of course, have every single one of these books (How to Lose a Lord in Ten Days preordered). They bring me joy.
Thank you HarperCollins UK and NetGalley for an early uncorrected proof of this ebook in return for my honest review. This was such an easy review. This book was just what I needed for a cosy winter read.
July 12, 2025
I teach history and absolutely loved the film “How to lose a guy in 10 days” so when I saw this on NetGalley, I knew had to apply for the ARC and I was not disappointed.
I absolutely loved this book! It’s rare a book has me actually laughing out loud, but the ongoing pranks between the two main characters had me giggling most of the way through. The FMC is fiery and not to be taken for a meek hearted girl and I loved it!
There are so many interesting characters within the story and I loved getting to know each of the individual characters and the dynamic of the group when at the country house. I am so thankful that each of the relationships was brought to a close rather than storylines being left open. I especially love that Aunt Mildred was not the demon she is portrayed to be and his Grace is the exact opposite of what you’d expect of a Duke, family first then his title.
If you’re a fan of period romance and humour then you will absolutely lovely this!
I absolutely loved this book! It’s rare a book has me actually laughing out loud, but the ongoing pranks between the two main characters had me giggling most of the way through. The FMC is fiery and not to be taken for a meek hearted girl and I loved it!
There are so many interesting characters within the story and I loved getting to know each of the individual characters and the dynamic of the group when at the country house. I am so thankful that each of the relationships was brought to a close rather than storylines being left open. I especially love that Aunt Mildred was not the demon she is portrayed to be and his Grace is the exact opposite of what you’d expect of a Duke, family first then his title.
If you’re a fan of period romance and humour then you will absolutely lovely this!
August 20, 2025
4.5 stars
“I promise. Avoiding the possibility of hurt does not make you safer. It only results in a life half-lived.”
Sophie Irwin can write a grocery list and I will read it!
I absolutely loved this regency version of how to lose a guy in 10 days! The antics were marvelous and had me giggling the entire book. The tension between Ashford and Lydia was so fun and silly. I could have spend forever reading their bickering 🙂↕️
Other things I loved:
-didn’t know falling into bodies of water could be so sexy
-getting locked in an office and kissing for cover ✨
-Pip’s investigating
-gay love!
-horrible men getting what they deserve 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
-grand romantic gestures
The beginning was a little slow, but once Ashford caught on…that’s when the book really drew me in!
Can’t wait for Sophie Irwin’s next book!
“I promise. Avoiding the possibility of hurt does not make you safer. It only results in a life half-lived.”
Sophie Irwin can write a grocery list and I will read it!
I absolutely loved this regency version of how to lose a guy in 10 days! The antics were marvelous and had me giggling the entire book. The tension between Ashford and Lydia was so fun and silly. I could have spend forever reading their bickering 🙂↕️
Other things I loved:
-didn’t know falling into bodies of water could be so sexy
-getting locked in an office and kissing for cover ✨
-Pip’s investigating
-gay love!
-horrible men getting what they deserve 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
-grand romantic gestures
The beginning was a little slow, but once Ashford caught on…that’s when the book really drew me in!
Can’t wait for Sophie Irwin’s next book!
August 22, 2025
CW: domestic violence (not between the leads).
Cute and funny. I enjoyed it more than the movie the title is riffing on. I wouldn’t necessarily tag this as enemies to lovers, but it’s a close cousin. Because the romantic leads blossom when their relationship becomes openly antagonistic.
This is a boisterous romantic comedy. I laughed out loud at several points. The banter was hilarious and the supporting cast was fun.
There is a subplot that deals with verbal and emotional abuse between secondary characters. A husband abusing his wife. I thought it was dealt with very skillfully. It was a depiction of abuse that can often be overlooked or dismissed, which made it all the more impactful for me when it’s explicitly called out for what it was.
This was delightful. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
Cute and funny. I enjoyed it more than the movie the title is riffing on. I wouldn’t necessarily tag this as enemies to lovers, but it’s a close cousin. Because the romantic leads blossom when their relationship becomes openly antagonistic.
This is a boisterous romantic comedy. I laughed out loud at several points. The banter was hilarious and the supporting cast was fun.
There is a subplot that deals with verbal and emotional abuse between secondary characters. A husband abusing his wife. I thought it was dealt with very skillfully. It was a depiction of abuse that can often be overlooked or dismissed, which made it all the more impactful for me when it’s explicitly called out for what it was.
This was delightful. I will definitely be reading more by this author.
August 11, 2025
This is Sophie Irwin’s third novel and since I loved her first two – A Lady’s Guide to Fortune-Hunting and A Lady’s Guide to Scandal – I was looking forward to reading this one, but although I did enjoy it, I think it’s my least favourite of the three. If you’re new to her work, all three of Irwin’s books are set in Regency England and are all standalones with different sets of characters. Apparently this one is loosely based on the romantic comedy How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days, which I haven’t seen, although I don’t think that would have made any difference to my impressions of the book.
Our heroine this time is Lydia Hanworth, a wool merchant’s granddaughter, who, as the novel opens, has found herself engaged to a man she doesn’t love. Lydia’s aunt and uncle, with whom she has lived since the deaths of her parents, have made it clear that if she refuses Lord Ashford, she’ll be sent to live with her awful Aunt Mildred – but Lydia has no intention of marrying him, or any other man not of her choosing. The engagement is due to be announced by Ashford’s father at a party in ten days’ time. That means Lydia has ten days to make Ashford regret he ever met her and voluntarily withdraw his proposal!
Like Sophie Irwin’s other books, this is a lively, entertaining read written with a lot of humour and comedy. Most of the story plays out at a house party hosted by Ashford’s cousin Phoebe, which means there are a limited number of characters to get to know. Despite this, not all of them came fully to life for me and a subplot that develops later in the book involving Phoebe, her husband and a missing necklace felt unnecessary. It does provide some purpose for Lydia’s brother, Pip, though – he has just begun working for the Bow Street Runners and has arrived at the house party with his notebook and quizzing glass, hoping for a real mystery to solve.
Some of Lydia’s attempts to drive Ashford away are quite amusing and could be described as harmless fun (her hideous, unfashionable gowns; her loud, grating laugh; her tone-deaf attempts at singing) but others seem a bit cruel. Despite Lydia’s dislike of him, which is largely based on misunderstandings, Ashford is a decent person and doesn’t really deserve to be humiliated by her! I also couldn’t quite believe that the other guests would have overlooked her behaviour and background so easily and accepted her as one of the party. She broke so many of the rules of upper-class Regency society her reputation should have been in ruins, but it seemed that while people were momentarily shocked by her actions, it was all forgotten the next day.
Still, this is another enjoyable read from Sophie Irwin and I’m sure if I hadn’t held it to such high standards based on her first two books, I would probably be less critical of it. If you’re looking for a light, fun summer read this would be ideal.
Our heroine this time is Lydia Hanworth, a wool merchant’s granddaughter, who, as the novel opens, has found herself engaged to a man she doesn’t love. Lydia’s aunt and uncle, with whom she has lived since the deaths of her parents, have made it clear that if she refuses Lord Ashford, she’ll be sent to live with her awful Aunt Mildred – but Lydia has no intention of marrying him, or any other man not of her choosing. The engagement is due to be announced by Ashford’s father at a party in ten days’ time. That means Lydia has ten days to make Ashford regret he ever met her and voluntarily withdraw his proposal!
Like Sophie Irwin’s other books, this is a lively, entertaining read written with a lot of humour and comedy. Most of the story plays out at a house party hosted by Ashford’s cousin Phoebe, which means there are a limited number of characters to get to know. Despite this, not all of them came fully to life for me and a subplot that develops later in the book involving Phoebe, her husband and a missing necklace felt unnecessary. It does provide some purpose for Lydia’s brother, Pip, though – he has just begun working for the Bow Street Runners and has arrived at the house party with his notebook and quizzing glass, hoping for a real mystery to solve.
Some of Lydia’s attempts to drive Ashford away are quite amusing and could be described as harmless fun (her hideous, unfashionable gowns; her loud, grating laugh; her tone-deaf attempts at singing) but others seem a bit cruel. Despite Lydia’s dislike of him, which is largely based on misunderstandings, Ashford is a decent person and doesn’t really deserve to be humiliated by her! I also couldn’t quite believe that the other guests would have overlooked her behaviour and background so easily and accepted her as one of the party. She broke so many of the rules of upper-class Regency society her reputation should have been in ruins, but it seemed that while people were momentarily shocked by her actions, it was all forgotten the next day.
Still, this is another enjoyable read from Sophie Irwin and I’m sure if I hadn’t held it to such high standards based on her first two books, I would probably be less critical of it. If you’re looking for a light, fun summer read this would be ideal.
July 15, 2025
What an absolute joy this book was!
I love how the retelling elements are a reference to How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days but are reworked into a regency era romance. I would say if you're going into this expecting a play-by-play of the movie in book form, it is not that, but I love that aspect of it because it makes it a more unique story.
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Lydia and Ashford. Their banter was some of my favourite I've ever read in a romance. I also felt that the relationship complications were depicted well, too. Especially considering the time period of the novel.
Thank you to Harper Collins UK and Sophie Irwin for my Proof Copy of this book!
I love how the retelling elements are a reference to How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days but are reworked into a regency era romance. I would say if you're going into this expecting a play-by-play of the movie in book form, it is not that, but I love that aspect of it because it makes it a more unique story.
I absolutely loved the chemistry between Lydia and Ashford. Their banter was some of my favourite I've ever read in a romance. I also felt that the relationship complications were depicted well, too. Especially considering the time period of the novel.
Thank you to Harper Collins UK and Sophie Irwin for my Proof Copy of this book!
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