The Trouble with Anna by Rachel Griffiths: Review

Diving into a first-time author story is fun! I usually don’t look for that before I choose a book but sometimes I do give some grace to an author that is brand new. Well, I think I give grace to all authors because is a tough job!

Here is a twist on a Regency romance with a somewhat progressive plot and a sweetheart of a male lead. Check out my thoughts on this new release below.

The Trouble with Anna by Rachel Griffiths
Publisher: ‎ Gallery Books
Pub Date: March 4, 2025
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1668052945

SYNOPSIS:
Anna didn’t intend to ride in a high-stakes horse race or start up a betting ring. She certainly didn’t mean to find herself in so many darkened corners with Lord Julian Ramsay, quarreling and kissing. But when her grandfather’s strange will stipulates that Anna must marry or she’ll be left broke, there’s nothing she won’t do to win her fight for independence. Even go head-to-head with Lord Ramsay, with her own heart as the prize.

The Trouble with Anna by Rachel Griffiths Review

I have to admit, I will almost always default to the male lead first when it comes to romance. I look at his qualities, care, and concern for others. The female lead will come after that unless he is a complete jerk.

With that said, the characters in this story fall into my normal sequence. Ramsay was definitely not looking for her but fell first, and showed care, and concern. He really wanted to support her and changed so much throughout the book. Even the nice bit of steam is a big plus.

Anna was developed to only care about horses, her property, and little else. So it is within reason that she can come off as strong-willed, defensive, and somewhat of a mess. She is a tomboy in the Regency era forced to marry to keep her property. She resists everything he does to help her.

I like the strong feisty women featured but they are also a mess. Bullying and rude behavior between them abound. I mean, who forces someone to cut their hair, wear specific clothing, and do things they are not comfortable with all for the sake of attracting others? I thought we were over that.

The Trouble with Anna is a progressive story within the time frame it is written. Ramsay deals with a lot from Anna and their conversation skills between each other stink.

There were many parts in this book that I did not care for, but overall Griffiths delivers a book that is unique. There are some love/hate qualities for Regency romance fans, but the story is entertaining and delivers a sweetheart of a male lead worth the read.

3.5 STARS!!

Disclaimer: Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & honest and your opinions may differ.