The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love

By: India Holton

Narrated by: Elizabeth Knowelden

INSTANT USA TODAY BESTSELLER!

"So riotously clever it almost defies description...an alchemy of romantic elements held in perfect harmony."—NPR

Rival ornithologists hunt through England for a rare magical bird in this historical-fantasy rom-com reminiscent of Indiana Jones but with manners, tea, and helicopter parasols.

Beth Pickering is on the verge of finally capturing the rare deathwhistler bird when Professor Devon Lockley swoops in, stealing both her bird and her imagination like a villain. Albeit a handsome and charming villain, but that's beside the point. As someone highly educated in the ruthless discipline of ornithology, Beth knows trouble when she sees it, and she is determined to keep her distance from Devon.

For his part, Devon has never been more smitten than when he first set eyes on Professor Beth Pickering. She's so pretty, so polite, so capable of bringing down a fiery, deadly bird using only her wits. In other words, an angel. Devon understands he must not get close to her, however, since they're professional rivals.

When a competition to become Birder of the Year by capturing an endangered caladrius bird is announced, Beth and Devon are forced to team up to have any chance of winning. Now keeping their distance becomes a question of one bed or two. But they must take the risk, because fowl play is afoot, and they can't trust anyone else—for all may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology.

Playful and charming

India Holton has a knack for weaving absolutely charming stories with characters that make you grin and chuckle. The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love is no different — it is twisty, whimsical, and will put a grin on your face page after page.

Delightfully polite, rude, and funny adventure!

Pleasant and wonderfully wistful adventure, twists, magic and romance. Great writing and fantastic narration makes this a unique treasure.

India holton is the best!!!

India Holton never disappoints—I absolutely love her books! Every single one is amazing. The audiobook narration for this one was absolutely perfect.💕💕💕

felt like a hug

The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love is an absolute joy to read! Though not a long book, it masterfully captures the slow, steady growth of love in a way that feels both natural and deeply satisfying. The narrator adds so much charm, offering witty insights into what the characters are truly feeling—especially when they’re trying to convince themselves otherwise. The warmth of the story wraps around you like a cozy hug, and the creativity woven into the bird themes adds an extra layer of delight. It’s the perfect book for anyone who loves romance with a touch of humor and heart. I had a great time!

Great academic regency romance with tongue firmly in cheek

Loved this tour de force send up of romantic tropes and the academic frenzy surrounding a search for a magical bird in Victorian England and France. Featuring well-drawn characters and a neurospicy brainy heroine, a gallant and charming hero, and horrible bird snatching bad guys and a passel of moral-free journalists.

An excellent performance as well.

Well done!