Queen of Lombard Street by Lisa Kleypas: My Honest Review
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⭐ Quick Verdict
⭐ My Rating: 5 ★
💭 Quick Take: Lisa Kleypas is BACK, and Queen of Lombard Street has everything I love about her historical romances: phenomenal storytelling, unforgettable characters, two swoonworthy love stories and fascinating historical details woven throughout.
👉 Read If You Love:
- Historical romances with strong, intelligent heroines and heroes who lead with kindness
- Rich historical settings, memorable supporting characters and more than one love story to fall for
🚫 Skip if:
- You prefer historical romances that focus almost exclusively on the couple rather than the larger world around them
Book Details
Release Date: October 2026
Genre: Historical Romance
Tropes: Strong Heroine, Forced Proximity, Undercover Cop
Series: Standalone
Steam Level: Low
What This Book Is About
Reina Martin has forged her own path in Victorian London, using her intelligence and determination to build a life despite the disadvantages of her birth.
William Farlow, one of London’s leading bankers, has been an important mentor to Reina, but when suspicions arise about his banking practices, John Pembroke enters Reina’s household posing as a butler to investigate William and determine whether Reina might be involved.
As John becomes part of the household, he discovers a remarkable woman who challenges his assumptions, and Reina finds herself drawn to a man she never expected to fall for.
My Review of Queen of Lombard Street
Lisa Kleypas is BACK and phenomenal as ever.
I was so excited by the announcement of Queen of Lombard Street when it had been five years since her last release and I’m so happy to say that this book has everything that I’ve always loved about Lisa’s amazing historical romances. Phenomental prose and storytelling, incredible characters from top to bottom, TWO swoonworthy love stories and so much historical significance to soak up and learn about.
It’s truly amazing how she can craft such an epic love story while also weaving in aspects of the times regarding banking for women, prisoner reform work, banking fraud, domestic help and the importance of financial independence for women. I truly soaked up every moment of education and commentary which made me think how far we’ve come in some ways and how little in others.
While I always walk away from a Lisa Kleypas book feeling a little bit smarter, I also always feel so joyful in the epic love stories she creates. Reina should not have fallen for the butler of the house but how could she not? John was such a wonderful man who shows what a true leader should be – decisive and strong but also kind, empathetic and one to educate over overpower. I loved his role in the household while trying to undercover information about William and possible improper banking practices and if Reina was involved.
Reina is the type of strong heroine I love read in historical romance. She grew up a bastard and yet forged her own path with her own intelligence, never backing down when faced with a challenge. She was a woman ahead of her times but never held herself about others – even the prisoners she hired in her household.
As far as the help, every character was wonderful and Lisa painted each in their own light. Belinda and Mad Dog were the true standouts to me and I loved every second they were on the page.
If you’re looking for an epic historical romance that teaches as well as swoons, then this should not be missed. I truly hope this means we will be seeing even more to come from Lisa Kleypas!
I received an advance reader copy. All opinions are my own.
Things to Know Before You Read
- The story includes substantial historical and social commentary alongside the romance.
- Readers of Hello Stranger, part of Kleypas’s Ravenels series, will appreciate some familiar faces, but this can be read as a standalone.
More Books by Lisa Kleypas
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