Resting on the fine fault line between old skool and new skool, between drama and comedy, is The Trouble with Anna, a readable mixed bag with a lovable heroine and a hero who loves her but could do with some better listening skills. Overall, it’s a fun read.

Lady Anna Reston does not care for the frippery of society – she loves horses and horse racing more than almost life iteself. She also doesn’t care for Julian Aveton, The Earl of Ramsey, whom her grandfather The Viscount Barton adores but with whom she gets on with like oil and water. He has tried proposing to her twice, and both times she’s said no. This aside, Anna is trapped by a codicil in her grandfather’s will when he dies; she must marry Julian within six months of the will being read, or inherit none of his money nor her family’s beloved horse farm and be destitute. Everything will go to a cousin she hates. Julian is promptly named her guardian until then.

Julian, to his credit, isn’t enthralled by this notion either. A proud but handsome man who has loved Anna for a long time, his arrogance nonetheless gets between him and his love for her.

As will surprise no one, as Ana spends time charting her path, she keeps finding herself in Julian’s arms. However, his kisses to do deter her. She will have her independence. Her nose for good horseflesh seems to be the key, and she teams up with her best friend – Lady Charlotte, Anna’s best friend and Julian’s younger sister – to make cash by betting on races. But can she make her own way in the world? And can Julian be the man she needs him to be?

This book treats Anna pretty roughly, but she gets punches of her own in by the end. Julian, who’s older than her, acts with less maturity and must grovel more. They’re a fine enough pairing once they get past their mutual mistrust, but they are stubborn, and it does indeed take some time for them to get anywhere. And for readers who do not like heroines who slap, this romance may not be your cup of tea. 

The gambling and horse racing world is well thought out and written. I also adored Julian and Charlotte’s nan, who puts in plenty a witty bon mot while matchmaking. This isn’t a wallpaper historical although its lead feel fairly modern. 

The Trouble with Anna isn’t perfect, but in the end it clunks happily along, just like a horse hitting its stride. If you like strong willed heroines and days at the races, saddle up! You’ll enjoy the ride.