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Improper Agreements #3

An Improper Scheme

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Sleep---something Henry longs for yet cannot seem to attain. It had never been the case before, but since his younger sister Louisa has been out in society, he is plagued by dreams of failure. And to top it all off, an old acquaintance has asked for his assistance in watching out for another young lady during her first season. He should say no. But his good nature will not allow it.

Violet dreams of lords and balls, and is all that is innocent and naive. Soon after arriving in town, she finds out her brother-in-law has arranged for another man to keep an eye on her. In a moment of boldness, she turns the tables and asks for a favor of her own. But when she sees how much Lord Wood does for others, and not for himself, she decides to help him instead. Only, he does not know of her secret scheme, and would likely not approve of her methods if he did.

But what happens when they gain feelings for the one they are supposed to be helping?

An Improper Scheme is a clean Regency romance and the third in Audra Wells' Improper Agreements series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but it best enjoyed in order.

292 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 10, 2023

230 people are currently reading
619 people want to read

About the author

Audra Wells

13 books240 followers

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5 stars
438 (41%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
Profile Image for Summer Harper.
55 reviews18 followers
October 10, 2023
Last week I read a review for this one that said Improper Scheme may be their favorite of the whole series, and I was like 👀 . . . There's no way! I love Wesley and Archie WAY too much. 

Well, guess who just gets better and better with each book she writes? Audra Wells!

Are you kidding me? I LOVED THIS BOOK! 

Henry! 🫠
I tell myself I like a rough alphamale, but then I read MMCs like this and I'm like - just kidding! He's so adorably and tragically selfless. His sleepless nights and drowsy haze broke my heart. He needs someone to take care of him too, whether he realizes it or not.

Violet is his perfect match. I loved watching the tension grow as their longing intensified. I also love that there are multiple schemes going on between multiple characters. It gets messy, but somehow Audra manages to keep miscommunication to a minimum. 🙏

We get cameos from past characters right off the bat, and to wrap it all in at the end. This series mega-fan was very pleased! Audra knows how to woo me. ☺️

Improper Scheme had me laughing multiple times, and it had me swooning throughout. (Especially during some serious 🥵 in the🌹garden.) 

If you're a fan of fun, clean regency you should try this Improper series. Each book can stand alone . . . but you'll want to give Wesley, Archie, and Henry each a piece of your heart, I promise. 🤍 
Profile Image for N.
136 reviews110 followers
January 16, 2024
I’ll tell you what, Ms. Wells can write a memorable Regency swoony scene. Not forgetting some of the moments in this book anytime soon. Definitely an indie author I would recommend to fellow kissing-only squeaky-clean romance readers.

And yet, though Book 1 in this series is one of my favorite broody hero/enemies to lovers ever…book 2, and now 3, in general have not gone so well for me.

I’ll uncharacteristically attempt to keep it concise, as I purge some honest thoughts, but also reiterate I very much enjoy this author’s writing and will for sure read on.

I came in so hopeful for this straight-laced Lord Wood asked to keep an eye out on buyoantly wide-eyed Violet on her first and only London season. She would exhuberantly twirl in public if she had a speck less of restraint, and he…would just like a good night’s sleep. I don’t need much: if the tropes don’t grab me, the characterizations should, or, if the stakes aren’t very high, the internal conflict and arcs should have me singing a character-driven happy tune. Ok, even at the lack of the afore-mentioned and that I’ve been barely hanging on, at least a well set up third act drama and resolution should have me contentedly conceding. But, notable moments notwithstanding, I didn’t feel like this was very solid in character depth/arc or premise. I don’t mean to oversimplify but, besides a borderline narcoleptic worrier and a well-intentioned silly miss, compatibility and growth was not capitalized on, and I kept marvelling at the faulty reasoning that actually gave us no stakes and flimsy conflict (and, I’m a romance reader, I can giddily snicker at love-adled faulty reasoning any day) which made the tearoom counterproductive antics even sillier and the third act forced. Wood and Violet were sweet, but, maybe it’s me, I think I can do a light Regency romp, but still need something to grab on to. Or maybe I’ll just never be over Lord Eaton.

I am excited tor Suffer-No-Fools Louisa’s HEA!

Content notes: Kissing Only, hero suffers from anxiety-induced insomnia.
Profile Image for Milena Bookish❤️.
290 reviews141 followers
February 1, 2024
Sweet-clean Romance. The author's writing skills always leave me in awe. She has such a way of making me feel like I'm right there with the characters, experiencing everything they are. The character Henry was especially impressive. I've never seen a male character so caring, tender, compassionate, and loving before. He was a loyal friend who always put others before himself. His interactions with Violet were so sweet and precious. I loved the scheming, the matchmaking, the helping each other, and the slow-burn romance. I found myself rooting for them to have a happy ever after, and the ending was worth the wait.
Profile Image for thelilcloseddoorbookgal.
130 reviews2 followers
October 23, 2025
Oh, Henry 😌 What a good man you are. And Violet, what a sweetheart.
I enjoyed listening to the audiobook and reading it on my Kindle.
Profile Image for Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee).
760 reviews330 followers
August 5, 2024
3rd time reading it: I don’t know how but this book gets better every time I read it! Absolutely love it!


Original review:
Henry is the epitome of goodness, or at least his friend Archie thinks so. Archie enlists Henry's help with keeping an eye on Archie's new sister-in-law, Violet. Violet is young and naive, and dreams of marrying a man with a title. So now not only does Henry have to keep an eye on his sister, to which he is losing sleep over, he has to watch Violet as well. Violet and Henry meet and quickly become friends. Violet also becomes close friends with Henry's sister, Louisa. Violet quickly finds out what Archie has asked of Henry, but instead of getting angry she asks him to help her by pointing out good men to her. Violet and Lousia see how much Henry needs a woman, even if he doesn't, and set out to find him a match by sometimes crazy means. As Henry and Violet are searching for a match for each other, they may find they were the right match for one another.

I loved this story! Henry is so worried and concerned for others he doesn't care for himself but learns to with Violet's help. Violet has such a kind sole and good intentions that may not always work out for her. I really liked Henry and Violet's friendship and then more. There are definitely some swoony moments between them. I also really liked the relationship between Henry and his sister, Lousia. They are super close, and I just liked the depth of the relationship the author gave them. More than just the casual mention of siblings. This book is full of funny moments, swoony moments and even "oh-no" moments. Very clean read and I definitely recommend it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Kristalyne, love.lovely.books love.lovely.books.
234 reviews44 followers
October 10, 2023
“Why, Lord Wood, are you flirting with me?”

This is such a cute story with the sweetest main characters, Henry and Violet. I loved the scheming, the shenanigans, the matchmaking, the helping each other, and the slow burn romance all set during the London season!

This book also has fun relationships. I loved the friendships, the family, the siblings, and the romance of course! Seeing characters from book one and two was such a treat!

I also enjoyed the ‘fall’ing for eachother, the sweet and swoony moments, and the awkward laugh out loud scenes. It was an all around delightful read!

Read for:
🤍The scheming
🤍The London season
🤍Fun settings
🤍The garden scenes
🤍Selfless hero
🤍Sunshine heroine
🤍New characters, I love Louisa and Prince
🤍Returning characters, I especially love Archie!!!
🤍Sweet touching love story
🤍Character growth
🤍The amazing happily ever after

I love this series. Audra Wells has created such wonderful characters that you can’t help but love! Each story is unique and so enjoyable! A must read book and series for historical romance lovers everywhere!

Thank you to the author for the arc copy. All opinions are my own.

*Content:death of a loved one in the past
Profile Image for Berly.
769 reviews24 followers
February 22, 2025
I really enjoyed my first book by Audra Wells. This is part of a series, but the first that I have read from it. It can definitely stand in it's own as a story, but I want to go back and read the others now, especially since I own the others! I need to work on that TBR list.

Henry is just the sweetest with such a pure heart. Violet and Louisa are quite the duo. There are some very funny scenes. I really liked the ending. I also appreciated the length of the story.

I was given an advanced digital copy of the book by the author and am happy to leave an honest review.

4.5 stars rounded up.

Reread Feb 2025...I was reading this series in order and actually forgot that I had already read this book. Some events sounded familiar but I didn't know it was because I'd already read it until I saw my review here. I am terrible about remembering things! But my original thoughts remain after reading a second time.
Profile Image for Morgan Giesbrecht.
Author 2 books175 followers
February 6, 2025
Another win from Audra! The series is seriously becoming a new comfort read. It’s hilarious and heartfelt, tender and romantic. With sweet romance and strong friendships, what more could you want?!

Henry and Violet were darlings. Yes, dear Vi has a bent for being silly and naïve compared to Henry’s duty conscious, no-flirtatious-bone-in-his-body self. But they’re still cute.
Profile Image for Lauren (thebookscript).
925 reviews656 followers
November 29, 2023
I always know when I pick up an Audra Wells book, i'm in for a good time. I love her writing style that makes her plots entertaining and her characters incredibly endearing.

An Improper Scheme takes a more conventional approach to characters and romance and I think thats what made me love it all the more. I'm in the opinion that not every male love interest needs to be tortured with a dark past. Henry is plagued by nightmares, of the pressure of not ever being good enough (something that feels HIGHLY relatable). I love that we are given this seemingly "boring would be side character" and giving him the spotlight. I love that everyone has a story and lets be honest...this is the type of MMC that we want to bring home to momma.

This romance is sweet, with little moments of angst and vulnerability. It's about making mistakes but then growing from them. It's a story of slow growing friendships. And most importantly this is a story about realizing how worthy of love you are, and that you don't have to be anyone but yourself in order to deserve it.

I loved the side character cameos as well and overall this was just a sweet delightful read. I recommend reading the series in order even if these can be read as standalones. I cannot wait to see what Audra does next. 4.5 stars
Profile Image for Holly (IG Hollys_Book_Musings).
374 reviews58 followers
July 6, 2025
"Her heart was aching from allowing it to fall for a man she knew she could not have. How silly of her. She knew from the start it was not possible, yet she had fallen--and she wasn't sure there was any turning back."

An Improper Scheme by Audra Wells

Another fantastic Regency rom-com from Audra Wells! I'm really loving the delightful humor and realistic characters set against the Regency era that she writes. This one was no different. If you enjoy moments that will have your heart aching, moments that will have you giggling, and also moments where you will be in a puddle of mush from swooning, then you must check out Audra's Improper series, including An Improper Scheme.

I love that Violet becomes fast friends with Louisa! Louisa is the sister to Henry Wood. Henry is friends with Archie, and is asked by him to help Miss Violet Hall find a match this season. Anyone will do, except himself. 

Violet and Louisa are thick as thieves, because they have their own scheming. Poor Henry! He didn't stand a chance.

The carriage ride had my mouth gaping so wide, I couldn't help but laugh at Violet's misfortune.

There were various parts that had me laughing out loud at what Louisa and Violet did, but also parts I was morbidly astounded at and ashamed at the lengths they went through. Oh goodness!

I loved the dynamic of Violet's and Henry's personalities. Complete opposites, made for each other.

Two of my favorite scenes are first when she sings. It's so sweet and tender. And the other is the thorns scene.

Audra has become a fast favorite. I think anyone looking for light-hearted banter, humor, and well-written characters with depth should give her books a try! I definitely recommend this one, as well as all of her books.

Favorite Parts:
Meet cute
Opposites attract
Archie’s favor
Violet’s and Louisa’s scheming
Singing
The thorn scene
Poor Henry
Epilogue

Content Guide:
Language: none
Sexual Content: Kissing only
Violence/gore: Mild- peril, injury with wound mildly described
Substance Use: none
Prejudices: none
Religious Content: none
Other: death of parent (past), nightmares (on page), grief (on page), burden of running estate on one’s own (on page)

Book Info:
Series: Improper series book 3
Genre: Regency Rom-com
Romance Level: Kisses only
Release Date: Available now on most audiobook platforms-Audible, Hoopla
Publisher: Podium
Narrators: Elizabeth Knowleden and Benjamin Crow
POV: dual
Profile Image for Camille Dayton Fostering.literacy.
554 reviews21 followers
September 27, 2023
"You did mean to fall, didn't you?' Violet's mouth fell open.
'Are you quite serious? Why would I purposely fall?'
'So Henry could carry you.' Louisa's brow creased as she stared at her.
'So, you did not fall on purpose?'
'Of course not! That would be completely idiotic.'
'Well, even if it was not your plan, I beleived it worked beautifully."

Audra Wells is quickly becoming a favorite author of mine. I've loved her other books and I'm so glad that Henry and Violet got to have a story together. Violet's brother asks Henry to look after Violet during her first (and only season). Violet (who happens to be best friends with Henry's sister) finds out and decides to boldly ask Henry for his help in finding the best gentleman that the season can offer. All of their time spent together bring them in a direction that neither anticipated at the beginning of the season.

Here are some things that I loved:
- Henry's reaction to Violet when sick
- Forced Proximity
- Violet's rescue
- Archie's meddling

Overall, it was a 5 star read for me! Thank you to the author for the advance copy of this book. A positive review was not required.
Profile Image for Shauna.
1,402 reviews13 followers
October 10, 2023
“Does anyone have to do anything to deserve love?”

Rounding up on my first book by Audra Wells. I own others, even within this series, but this is my first read and I’m all in! Stands alone. And I totally related to these characters.

Henry is tired of basically life and its responsibilities. I’ve been there. When I’m so tired I can hardly function, but there is still so much to do and people counting on me. Not to mention that the older I get the more I value a good nights sleep. That never comes. So I could feel the struggle. Man was he endearing.

Violet enters his life as another responsibility and thats when his life starts to get completely out of his control.

So many physical comedic things happen and it just made it impossible not to “fall” for this humble hero. Did I see myself stumbling through life like him? Nope. Maybe. Yes? Violet and Louisa get into all kinds of scheming that doesn’t always go the way they think and it’s often funny. Matchmaking and the fallout was a turning point, but I had to also laugh. The relationships between the three of them was lovely and felt real.

And can we talk about the garden? So romantic! The author had me right there for every little swoony moment leading to the perfect ending. I need to know Archie’s story. And hopefully Louisa’s? Like with someone who doesn’t like Prince? 😂

It may seem improper and involve a bit of scheming but if it leads to love then all is well that ends well. Find out what happens when Henry is knee deep in love before he can even tell.



Profile Image for Amanda (loveandbookish) Love.
33 reviews5 followers
October 12, 2023
Book Review

Title: An Improper Scheme
By: Audra Wells
Pub Date: October 10, 2023

Thank you to the author Audra Wells for an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.

Violet is excited for her first season after her beloved sister marries. She dreams of balls, dances with titled gentleman and of course her own happily ever after. Henry already feels that the world is on his shoulders as he navigates his sister Louisa’s first season as well. When an old friend approaches Henry and asks him to look after his sister-in-law Violet as well, he agrees to because of his good nature. Violet quickly figures out that Henry has been asked to help steer her in the right direction for a match, so she enlists his help as well. Violet in her innocence thinks she can find Henry a match also. But will they find love in each other as they try to make a success of this season?

After meeting Henry in An Improper Agreement and Violet in An Improper Gentleman I was excited to see these two characters get a story of their own. Henry and Violet are both good-natured people with big hearts and while Henry has been around for multiple seasons, this will be the first for Violet. Henry is a perfect gentleman who strives to take care of his family and now thanks to his friend Archie, looks out for Violet as well. Violet is trying to take it all in since she has spent most of her life in the country and is not sure how to navigate the ton. It was heartwarming to go along on their journey to have a successful season. There were swoon-worthy walks in the garden, friendships built to last, schemes to get people matched and sweet lullabies.

Henry made such a great main character and I loved the anxiety representation in this book. He often doubted himself and his ability to take over as head of the family. Violet was a great main character as well and came along to balance Henry perfectly. While she made mistakes, her intentions were altruistic and she learned quickly from the mistakes she made. Henry’s sister Louisa and Violet became fast friends and I enjoyed seeing that friendship being built after Louisa saves Violet from making association with gossips who seek to harm her. Even the family dog Prince plays a part in making sure Violet and Henry can see each other for what they are.

This was easily my favorite of the three books in this series. It can be read as a standalone; however, it is better when read in order so you can understand the secondary characters and see why Henry, or as he is known as Lord Wood in the first book, doubts himself. If you’re looking for a cute and sweet regency romance, add this one to your TBR!
Profile Image for Ashley Sills.
82 reviews5 followers
October 4, 2023
My rating: 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4

Regency romance fans, I think you'll enjoy this one.

We follow Henry Wood, a sleep-deprived bachelor with the weight of the world on his shoulders, and Violet Hall, a young lady beginning her first Season in London, as they strike a deal, harbor secrets, and try to deny their feelings for each other.

I really liked the characters in this book. Henry and Violet were funny and flawed, and even though their actions confused me occasionally, I wanted to root for them. The side characters were just as loveable (can I be Louisa's friend too?)

I'll admit I had a hard time immersing myself in the story; there wasn't much setting description, and the dialogue and transitions felt awkward sometimes, but I'm still glad I kept reading because the love story was really sweet and the ending was satisfying. Speaking of endings, the epilogue was probably my favorite part 😆💖 I'm a fan of after-the-fact epilogues, anyone else? 🙋‍♀️

This is book three in the author's Improper Agreements series and even though it can be read as a standalone (like I did) you'll get the full impact from reading them in order. Some minor characters from books one and two appear in this one, but I didn't feel like anything was spoiled by reading book three first.

If you love regency romance, banter, cinnamon roll heroes and happy endings, I think this book is worth a read. You can get your own copy on October 10!

Note: I was given an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
214 reviews
September 26, 2023
Violet and Henry are such endearing characters. I'm thrilled that author, Audra Wells, gave them bigger roles in her third story  of the series, An Improper Scheme. Between scheming, new friendships, silly hats, several mishaps, sweet lullaby's, unintentional romances, and beautiful, heartfelt conversations this book has it all. This has easily become my favorite of the series because it's just that wonderful. Read this today! Happy reading, friends!
Profile Image for Madeline.
249 reviews5 followers
October 8, 2023
✨Book Review✨

An Improper Scheme by Audra Wells
Improper Agreements, Book 3
(Release Date: Oct. 10, 2023)

Quick Synopsis:

Sleep. Something Henry longs for yet cannot seem to attain. On top of the pressures of duty and responsibility for his mother and sister, an old acquaintance asks for assistance in watching out for another young lady during her first season. His good nature won’t allow him to refuse…

Though initially embarrassed by the revelation of Henry looking out for her, when Violet sees how much Lord Wood does for others, and not for himself, she decides to help him instead. A rumor or two could aid the cause in his search for a lady. Only, Lord Wood does not know of her secret scheme, and would likely not approve of her methods if he did.

But what happens when they gain feelings for the one they are supposed to be helping?

Thoughts:

I love Violet and Henry’s growing friendship. She sees him for who he truly is, not as a rich viscount, and he is emboldened to be more himself around her, surprising her at every turn. My favorites were the statue and the thorns. IYKYK 🤩

Definitely worth reading!

#bookstagram #maddieraereads2023 #momswhoread #arcreader #animproperscheme #audrawells #wholesomeromance #historicalfiction #bookquotes
Profile Image for Sara Grace.
348 reviews5 followers
September 29, 2024
Henry, the ‘sturdy’ bore, and Violet, the faithful rumormonger, quite literally fell head over heels for one another. Another pull from side characters, makes for a fun “season 3.”

Spoiler?
I wanted more from their clumsy mishaps, felt like a missed opportunity for witty banter ESP. after the rule of not falling for one another was made (same for the initial fall that started it all, I wanted that to be a SCENE, but it fell flatter than Violet out of the chaise)
Profile Image for Kristy.
1,733 reviews10 followers
August 8, 2024
3 stars might be a bit generous for this book.
.
First off, let me say that book 1 in this series is absolutely wonderful! I feel like the author has been chasing that story high ever since.
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This 3rd book had no real stakes to it. Both main characters felt immature, and the lack of chemistry between them made it hard to root for either one.
.
The first 20-30% of this story shines, but, sadly, getting through the rest was a slog.
Profile Image for Jessica Anderson.
98 reviews4 followers
March 30, 2025
I was really hoping that this wasn't an enemies to lovers trope, and although I'm glad it wasn't, I just....don't like Violet. She's different and more immature in her book than she was in Bridget's.
Profile Image for Madeline (bookswithmadi_).
177 reviews16 followers
October 31, 2023
4.5 stars rounded up to 5

"And then he did the unthinkable. He winked-and it was her undoing."

This was exactly what I want in a regency. Sweet, swoony and completely enchanting.

Henry is such a sweet guy and just a genuinely good person. I loved the fact that he works so hard to take care of and help the people around him, whether its his mom and sister or a stranger on the street. And Violet's excitement over her first season and all of the new experiences she's having was so charming. I love how they slowly became friends and then realized that maybe the person they had written off as a potential match was the perfect person for them!

I love how Audra has written a Regency novel that almost has a rom-com feel to it.

There are some things throughout the book that bothered me, but I think it's a case of it's me not the book.
Profile Image for Meagan.
236 reviews13 followers
September 29, 2023
I love this book!

Henry is a lovable character trying to do his best, and Violet is breath of fresh air trying to enjoy her first and only season. What will make them form an improper scheme?

I so enjoyed Henry’s character development throughout the book. The relationship between him and his sister, Louisa, is so fun! Prince almost steals the show. I love the friendship created between Violet and Louisa, and in extension Henry. I love Violet’s interest in gardens and flowers and how that is shown throughout the book. I also enjoyed seeing past characters. Especially Archie and Violet’s relationship.

Read this if you like sweet historical romance, friend’s older brother trope, matchmaking, or other books by Audra Wells.

I had the privilege of beta reading this book and reading an eARC. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Mariah Richards .
7 reviews1 follower
September 22, 2023
This book is in my top 10 picks of the year!!Absolutely loved it.

Henry takes the heart of a gentleman to the next level. He is the BEST main male character. And the other characters in the story are charming, mischievous and wonderful.
Profile Image for Cait | GoodeyReads.
2,724 reviews643 followers
June 23, 2025
CHARMING.

BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK

This was another fun read in the Improper series. I adore Audra Wells writing style and I’m happy that I finally decided to pick them up. I love that they are shorter, lighter reads that bring plenty of swoon and heart. I loved Henry and Violet. They had a great opposites attract vibe and lots of good forced proximity moments.

I enjoyed the plot. I didn’t looove the shenanigans Violet and Louisa got up to, but that’s okay. I liked the growth from Henry and Violet and that they both got resolutions to things they were working through.

A cute read and I’m looking forward to the next book!

Overall audience notes:
- Regency Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
Profile Image for Katie Powell.
162 reviews37 followers
October 10, 2023
I love the “bad boy redeemed” trope, but what about the good guys who gets left behind? I have to thank Mrs. Wells for giving us a satisfying HEA for this “good guy.” We meet Lord Henry Wood in “An Improper Agreement”. While he was definitely more worthy of a suitor than Wesley, Clara chose Wesley. Don’t get me wrong, Wesley did redeem himself, but up until the last few chapters, he was a dunce. I am glad the author chose Henry as the hero for this story. Miss Violet Hall is Bridget’s sister from “An Improper Gentleman”. Her sweetness and exuberance makes her a perfect match for Henry’s serious and responsible nature. Right away we see there’s more to Lord Wood than what others think. He’s a noble young man who tries to do the right thing no matter what others may think about it. He’s taken on the responsibility of the “man of the house” after the death of his father. This responsibility weighs heavy on him and the worry is affecting his physical and mental health. Archie sees the honorable nature in Henry and asks him to keep an eye on his fun-loving little sister as she makes her debut in London society. Although he has his own sister, Louisa, to watch out for, Henry agrees to watch out for Violet also. Violet and Louisa become fast friends which makes Henry’s job easier and more difficult at the same time. Violet’s easygoing and sunny nature brings out Henry’s lighter side and he finds himself attracted to her. Henry is one who puts other’s needs before his own and feels he cannot give his attentions to wooing Violet until he settles his sister in a good match. Violet and Louisa don’t know he feels this way and they scheme to find him a wife to take care of him and help him not work so hard. Violet is falling for Henry herself, but thinks he doesn’t see her as more than a friend. I really enjoyed this story and read it all in one day. As for the romance, although it isn’t explicitly stated, you can tell there’s a bit of an age gap between the H and h which also appeals to my preference for the trope. And every time Henry winks or asks Violet, “Do you trust me?” I swoon a little bit. The characters are endearing. Henry is a wonderful, brooding hero. Violet is young and her impulsivity get her into some trouble, but her heart is in the right place. She needs a man like Henry to adore her and look out for her as she cares for him and reminds him to enjoy life instead of worrying about it all the time. This is a wonderful conclusion to the series. This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by the author. I was not required to give a favorable review.
Profile Image for amille🖤.
36 reviews
September 27, 2023
Audra Wells does it again! I absolutely loved this book. An Improper Scheme is the third book in the Improper Series. It can be read as a stand alone, but it's so much better when you read them in order. It is a clean regency romance book that will give you all the laughs, swoons, and butterflies. The characters are very relatable while still having that whimsical feel that the regency characters/setting has. Audra's creations are simply incredible and well articulated! This book follows the love story of Henry and Violet. Violet is a bubbly, inquisitive young lady who is excited to experience the social season, and Henry is a serious, responsible man ready for the next phase of life. Lord Henry Wood is asked by Violet's brother-in-law to keep an eye out for her since it's her first season out, and after finding this out, she sets out on an adventurous secret scheme to find a lady for Lord Wood, but they find themselves falling for each other instead.

I definitely recommend this sweet romance. It was the perfect quick and cozy read. Thank you Audra Wells for the ARC, it was a privilege to read this early! Can't wait for the physical copy!
Profile Image for Jessica Harrison.
520 reviews13 followers
July 29, 2025
Such a great book! This one is hilarious. The scheming, the chaise debacle, the wild tales - so incredibly funny!! 😂

Henry is selfless to a fault, always helping others to the neglect of himself. He suffers from prolonged, stress-induced insomnia and his sleep deprivation has made him barely functional. Despite being already overburdened, he agrees to watch over his friend’s sister-in-law during the season, the lovely and vivacious Violet. Violet and his sister quickly become best friends and decide they should “help” Henry in finding a wife. The wild scheming begins, followed by flirting debutantes, unexpected chaos, and a great deal of laughter (the reader’s, of course, not Henry’s).

I admit, I found the ending conflict unnecessarily intense and drawn out, but the rest of the book was perfect and the HPE eventually came, so I’m going to let it slide.

Highly recommended to regency rom-com fans, and the audiobook is exceptionally well done as well.

Content:
There’s no foul language, sex, or violence. The romance is limited to lightly descriptive kisses. There is no real mention of faith or God
Profile Image for Kayla Stewart.
310 reviews4 followers
October 11, 2023
What a thoroughly enjoyable story. A highly anticipated read that did not disappoint! I need to go back and read the first two! I loved Henry and Violet’s story!

Henry has so many worries and responsibilities that he holds on his shoulders and they effect his ability to function each day from lack of sleep and recurring nightmares. Feeling he must secure his sisters happiness before his own he may just miss his opportunity for love.

Violet quickly sees burdens are weighing Henry down, and when he trusts her with some of his fears she knows he won’t ask for help and vows to help him in any way she can.

Bungled up plans, embarrassing moments, forced proximity, building attraction, and forgiveness make for a delightful story that fills your heart!

Favorite Moments
🌿Carriage Fiasco
🌿 Henry’s way of getting a thorn out of Violets hand 🫠
🌿 Henry’s Wink’s
🌿 The Garden Statue
🌿 Lullaby’s sung
🌿 A troublesome pup named Prince
🌿 When Henry trips at the Opera
🌿 The Alcove Meeting
🌿 Rumors and Forgiveness
Profile Image for Kylaslittlelibrary.
580 reviews29 followers
October 10, 2023
An Improper Scheme by Audra Wells

There are some truly beautiful moments in this story about a man riddled with anxiety and a woman who chooses to see the world through roses colored lenses.

Henry has taken on many responsibilities since the death of his Father and he just wants to do his Father’s legacy justice.

Violet is kind, innocent and a little naive to the workings of London society. A true romantic, she is searching for her happily ever after.

These two pair so well together and I was giddy reading about them finding their way to each other. There are several beautiful scenes and it wouldn’t be an Audra Wells book without a “Nooooo, why is this happening??” moment. (Honestly it’s worth the read for this moment alone!)

I loved the characters old and new. I can’t wait for the next one!

Content: kisses
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