Real People. Real Conflict. Real Romance.
Historical Romance
in the style of Jane Austen
A Sporting Affair
by Paullett Golden
Pursuit at Point of Release
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Rafe Fitz-Stephens lives a charmed life: good friends, loving family, academic success, and exclusive membership in The Vitruvian Society, a gentleman’s sporting club. When the annual village competition calls him home from London, he is ready for a hero’s welcome—after all, there is no one better to win the games than a well-trained Corinthian. If only his training had included how to avoid tripping into a leg-shackle.
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Genevieve Slade dreams of a stable home with a stable gentleman, stable friends, and, perhaps, a stable. Her father, however wealthy, moves his family from manor to manor, living as veritable gypsies to escape that horrifying word no one in the Slade household dares utter: responsibility. As she settles into yet another new home in yet another new village, both dreams and disposition are shaken when a madcap stranger tumbles, literally, through her bedchamber window.
Join Rafe and Genevieve as these enemies-of-circumstance race to break the betrothal before either stumbles headlong in love with the other.
The Corinthians (Book 1), Hartminster Chronicles
Available Formats:
Kindle
Paperback
Hardback
Audiobook
Courtship Romance: No physical intimacy, light kissing only, clean language, no angst.
Themes & Triggers: Sporting Events, such as rowing, running, swimming, archery, etc.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Opposites Attract, Compromised into Engagement, Sporting Hero, Village Setting, Roguish Hero, Forced Proximity
Romance Genre: Romantic Comedy
Autographs & Book Boxes
Review Highlights
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"This book was so much fun. I honestly didn't expect to laugh this much while reading a Regency romance, but it totally surprised me--in the best way.... There's a lot to love here: the hilarious setup, the small village full of nosy neighbors, the absurd sporting events (which made me laugh out loud more than once), and that delicious slow build between two people who are absolutely not supposed to fall in love... but obviously do. The enemies-to-lovers vibes are strong, but it never feels-spirited--just sharp, witty, and a little chaotic.... If you're into historical romance with clever banter, a bit of chaos, and a guaranteed happy ending, you wil like this one."
"A Sporting Affair is easily one of the most memorable historical romance novels I've had the pleasure of reading. Paullett Golden weaves this story with grade and precision, bringing to life a heartfelt journey between two well developed and engaging characters. What stood out most to me was hos authentically the novel captured the aloofness and charm of British mannerisms. These cultural nuances not only shaped the story's tone but also deeply influenced the characters' growth, especially Rafe, whose gentlemanly chivalry was nothing short of flawless. I found the character development exceptional; each figure felt layered, relatable, and genuinely human.... If you're a fan of historical romance that blends elegance, emotional depth, and charming storytelling, this book is a must-read. High recommended."
-Lawal Priscilla of Tech for Care Blog
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"A slow, sparkling, smart romance that doesn't rush the feelings or fake the drama. If you love witty dialogue, emotionally mature characters, and stories where the biggest obstacle to love is fear of it, this one's for you. A Sporting Affair is the kind of book you close with a smile and maybe a little sight. Reading A Sporting Affair felt like cozying up with a cup of tea you didn't know you needed. Rich, warming, and full of depth. This is a gentle, intelligent slow burn romance that lets its characters grow, stumble, flirt, and spar. It's a delicious, maddening dance between two people who are so clearly meant for each other, once they get out of their own way.... And let me say this: the banter is top-tier. Witty, playful, and often laugh-out-loud funny. Rafe is an absolute delight! Clever, respectful, and quietly romantic. Genevieve, on the other hand, is a bit of a pill at times. Sharp, stubborn, and occasionally exasperating. But she's also deeply layered, with real vulnerability beneath her armor...."
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"Paullett Golden is a unique author in the romance genre. Her books are a pleasure to read focusing on the human drama and less on the superficial trappings of romance.... The journey to their eventual HEA is riddled with all sorts of obstacles. Some are more expected than others. I especially enjoyed the eccentric family members and the internal monologues of Rafe and Genevieve."
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"I love the fact in the beginning they barely knew each other's names and I loved watching how they got to know each other from her love of horses and reading to his athletic prowess and I always love the moment when they realize they're falling for the other. This book was not only funny it was intelligently done, swoon worthy and absolutely entertaining, a definite five star Regency romance and I don't say that lightly. I am very skeptical of historical books because most authors don't do their due diligence when it comes to historical accuracy but I must say Miss Golden did it in spades. This book was so good, so on point and accurate and funny and everything you look for in a romance novel."
-Janalyn Prude of The Blind Reviewer
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