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The Queen's Deadly Damsels #3
The Confessions of a Lady
A BRAND NEW spicy upstairs/downstairs historical romance featuring the Queen's Deadly Damsels! Dare she risk her secrets?
In the world of upstairs/downstairs, Housemaid Penny Smith anticipates her employer’s needs and blends into the background making her the perfect spy for the prime minister against a suspected member of the Devil’s Sons. There’s only one problem. When she meets the guilty marquess, his actions don’t match the evidence against him. Lord William Renquist defies her every expectation and sets her traitorous heart racing.
Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway and secret spy to Queen Victoria, must infiltrate the Devil’s Sons, tearing the brotherhood apart from the inside. His mission – to bring evil men to justice while atoning for the sins of his family, proving honour is stronger than tainted blood. There’s only one problem. A canny maid who is always in the right place at the wrong time and who deliciously challenges his every order.
Liam and Penny are unknowingly playing a dangerous game from opposite sides of justice. And at a masked ball, forbidden attraction burns into something far more complex as their secrets spin into daring confessions. This battle against their enemy will only be won if Penny and Liam can work together. But can a maid from downstairs ever trust an upstairs marquess?
In the world of upstairs/downstairs, Housemaid Penny Smith anticipates her employer’s needs and blends into the background making her the perfect spy for the prime minister against a suspected member of the Devil’s Sons. There’s only one problem. When she meets the guilty marquess, his actions don’t match the evidence against him. Lord William Renquist defies her every expectation and sets her traitorous heart racing.
Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway and secret spy to Queen Victoria, must infiltrate the Devil’s Sons, tearing the brotherhood apart from the inside. His mission – to bring evil men to justice while atoning for the sins of his family, proving honour is stronger than tainted blood. There’s only one problem. A canny maid who is always in the right place at the wrong time and who deliciously challenges his every order.
Liam and Penny are unknowingly playing a dangerous game from opposite sides of justice. And at a masked ball, forbidden attraction burns into something far more complex as their secrets spin into daring confessions. This battle against their enemy will only be won if Penny and Liam can work together. But can a maid from downstairs ever trust an upstairs marquess?
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 9, 2025
222 people are currently reading
356 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
January 26, 2025
If Bridgerton and Nancy Drew had a book baby it would be this book. I love this series so much! The books are quick, fun reads and a great palate cleanser. I love a good upstairs/downstairs spicy Cinderella story and that happens in each book of this series.
The only thing I wish there would have been was a little more at the end of the story that showed how the couple navigated society accepting the relationship since it was a main pain point during the "courting phase".
The only thing I wish there would have been was a little more at the end of the story that showed how the couple navigated society accepting the relationship since it was a main pain point during the "courting phase".
February 9, 2025
Housemaid meets Marquess!_____4.5
Housemaid Penny Smith was trained in the school of hard knocks down in St Giles. She survived by fighting, claiming her own space, and “take no hostages” sorts of actions.
Which is exactly how her relationship with Lord William (Liam) Rehnquist seems to be going.
All she has to do is find letters that prove he’s a member of the Devils Son’s cohort.
Little does Penny know he works for the Queen. She’s under the impression that he’s linked to the fearful organisation. They’re working towards same ends but from different perspectives.
Penny is working for Constable Sweet gathering information about the Devil’s Sons for the reward money promised by Commissioner Worthington, in a desperate bid to free her mother from prison. Harriet Smith has been held in prison under the Vagrancy Act of 1838.
The problem is for Penny is that Liam sees her, he really sees her, lowly maid that she is, and that’s dangerous for both of them.
And did I mention the most dangerous of all! The fact they can’t keep their hands off each other!
Intrigue leaps from the pages as Liam and Penny investigate their leads to a rather shocking conclusion.
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Housemaid Penny Smith was trained in the school of hard knocks down in St Giles. She survived by fighting, claiming her own space, and “take no hostages” sorts of actions.
Which is exactly how her relationship with Lord William (Liam) Rehnquist seems to be going.
All she has to do is find letters that prove he’s a member of the Devils Son’s cohort.
Little does Penny know he works for the Queen. She’s under the impression that he’s linked to the fearful organisation. They’re working towards same ends but from different perspectives.
Penny is working for Constable Sweet gathering information about the Devil’s Sons for the reward money promised by Commissioner Worthington, in a desperate bid to free her mother from prison. Harriet Smith has been held in prison under the Vagrancy Act of 1838.
The problem is for Penny is that Liam sees her, he really sees her, lowly maid that she is, and that’s dangerous for both of them.
And did I mention the most dangerous of all! The fact they can’t keep their hands off each other!
Intrigue leaps from the pages as Liam and Penny investigate their leads to a rather shocking conclusion.
A Boldwood Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
February 20, 2025
For every person who laments historical romance that focuses on the aristocracy, there's the heroine of The Confessions of a Lady. Penny is an illiterate housemaid who grew up in prison because her parents were incarcerated for being homeless. The Vagrancy Act of 1824 made sleeping rough illegal, sending many to jail. As an adult, Penny is working as a maid and a constable she knew from prison convinces her to help him gather evidence of the human trafficking operation that spans this series. She hopes to get "reward" money for her work that will get her mother out of prison.
She works in the home of Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway. Though illiterate, she knows the seal of the traffickers, The Devil's Sons, and searches for documents bearing it. What she doesn't realize is that the Marquess is also trying to bring the Devil's Sons to justice, working as an undercover agent for Queen Victoria. William (Liam) is a disillusioned war veteran who inherits his title when his brother dies prior to this book.
The relationship between the Marquess and his illiterate maid moves quickly and think including some time jumps might have made it more believable. Still, this was a fun romp. We have a Cinderella-like ball scene where Penny gets to dress up and dance with Liam. We also have all the characters from previous books in the series make an appearance.
I've enjoyed this romps and hope they continue!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing a copy of this book in advance. This is my honest review.
She works in the home of Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway. Though illiterate, she knows the seal of the traffickers, The Devil's Sons, and searches for documents bearing it. What she doesn't realize is that the Marquess is also trying to bring the Devil's Sons to justice, working as an undercover agent for Queen Victoria. William (Liam) is a disillusioned war veteran who inherits his title when his brother dies prior to this book.
The relationship between the Marquess and his illiterate maid moves quickly and think including some time jumps might have made it more believable. Still, this was a fun romp. We have a Cinderella-like ball scene where Penny gets to dress up and dance with Liam. We also have all the characters from previous books in the series make an appearance.
I've enjoyed this romps and hope they continue!
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing a copy of this book in advance. This is my honest review.
July 5, 2025
I always enjoy how the books in this series blend elements of historical fiction, spice, and spy thriller all into one !
February 21, 2025
I enjoyed the book very much. The attraction between Liam and Penny is explosive. Penny infiltrates the marquess' home looking for evidence of his participation with the Devil's Sons. Unbeknownst to Penny, he wants to infiltrate the Devil's Sons and destroy it from the inside. Liam wants to do it by himself, but he discovers there is nothing wrong with help from friends and the woman he loves.
An upstairs and downstairs romance mystery.
Explicit sex. Some violence.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksprout.
An upstairs and downstairs romance mystery.
Explicit sex. Some violence.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksprout.
October 18, 2025
This should probably be renamed the Maid and the Marquess!
It continues the overarching mystery of the Devils Sons with Penny, Millie's maid from the previous book.
She is employed by the remaining Renquist son and is spying on him to see if he is up to no good with the evil society.
You could read this as a standalone though it makes more sense after the others. I suspect it might be a bit confusing knowing who all the characters are who pop up otherwise.
I found the connection between the two MCs a little implausible and despite the MMC being all about consent, the obvious disparity in the power dynamic was a little uncomfortable for me. Loved that the FMC called that out repeatedly though.
It continues the overarching mystery of the Devils Sons with Penny, Millie's maid from the previous book.
She is employed by the remaining Renquist son and is spying on him to see if he is up to no good with the evil society.
You could read this as a standalone though it makes more sense after the others. I suspect it might be a bit confusing knowing who all the characters are who pop up otherwise.
I found the connection between the two MCs a little implausible and despite the MMC being all about consent, the obvious disparity in the power dynamic was a little uncomfortable for me. Loved that the FMC called that out repeatedly though.
December 21, 2024
**3.5 Stars Rounded to 4**
First, I want to thank both the author and NetGalley for giving me a chance to read the ARC of this book. I will be giving my honest thoughts and opinions only :)
This book was an enjoyable quick read for me. I thought that the love story and plot were interesting and kept me engaged until the end. I didn’t realize that this was part of a series, but it could totally be a stand alone. I’m slowly realizing that I don’t love regency/period romance books, however, I liked it enough to possibly read the first 2 books. I will definitely keep my eye out for more releases by this author in the future.
First, I want to thank both the author and NetGalley for giving me a chance to read the ARC of this book. I will be giving my honest thoughts and opinions only :)
This book was an enjoyable quick read for me. I thought that the love story and plot were interesting and kept me engaged until the end. I didn’t realize that this was part of a series, but it could totally be a stand alone. I’m slowly realizing that I don’t love regency/period romance books, however, I liked it enough to possibly read the first 2 books. I will definitely keep my eye out for more releases by this author in the future.
December 24, 2025
3.5⭐️
I really enjoyed the upstairs/downstairs aspect of this! Penny Smith is working as a maid in the household of William, Marquess of Stoneway. The pull between them was so fraught with tension and angst, because they both know their places in society will keep them apart. I loved how Liam was constantly trying to be a better man and better lord. Sure, he hadn't been in the past and sometimes he was truly ignorant of the goings-on in his own home, but the man was trying. I loved how Penny was never afraid to call him on things, even when she feared it would get her in trouble. She always spoke her mind and he loved her more for it
I did not, however, enjoy the spy aspect of this. Quite frankly I thought it was terrible at times. Not a single person in this story was a subtle or even successful spy. Them getting their man in the end was purely accidental and through no cause of their own. Penny is a housemaid in the Stoneway household, but she is also spying to see if he has become a member of the Devil's Sons. Liam for his part is secretly trying to infiltrate the nefarious group to help bring them to justice. Both of them are terrible at their jobs. The entire library scene at the ball when they confront Liam? I was eye-rolling my way through the entire chapter. There was only one braincell in that room and her name was Philippa.
I really enjoyed the upstairs/downstairs aspect of this! Penny Smith is working as a maid in the household of William, Marquess of Stoneway. The pull between them was so fraught with tension and angst, because they both know their places in society will keep them apart. I loved how Liam was constantly trying to be a better man and better lord. Sure, he hadn't been in the past and sometimes he was truly ignorant of the goings-on in his own home, but the man was trying. I loved how Penny was never afraid to call him on things, even when she feared it would get her in trouble. She always spoke her mind and he loved her more for it
I did not, however, enjoy the spy aspect of this. Quite frankly I thought it was terrible at times. Not a single person in this story was a subtle or even successful spy. Them getting their man in the end was purely accidental and through no cause of their own. Penny is a housemaid in the Stoneway household, but she is also spying to see if he has become a member of the Devil's Sons. Liam for his part is secretly trying to infiltrate the nefarious group to help bring them to justice. Both of them are terrible at their jobs. The entire library scene at the ball when they confront Liam? I was eye-rolling my way through the entire chapter. There was only one braincell in that room and her name was Philippa.
August 2, 2025
If you don't mind the insta-love/lust trope you'll enjoy this book (and series for that matter.) A little repetitive, but I figured that was so the books could all be read as standalones. I liked Penny and it was easy to root for her. And I appreciated how the class difference was handled and that the divide wasn't fixed just by helping Penny and her family but Liam acknowledging he needs to use his power to help everyone.
November 12, 2025
5/5 stars. Another great book in this series! Not my favorite one so far, but entertaining and swoony nonetheless.
February 9, 2025
I was lucky to read this as an arc and I am very grateful and it was similar to the housemaid but much better!! Penny Smith anticipates her employer’s needs and blends into the background making her the perfect spy for the prime minister against a suspected member of the Devil’s Sons. There’s only one problem. When she meets the guilty marquess, his actions don’t match the evidence against him. Lord William Renquist defies her every expectation and sets her traitorous heart racing.
Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway and secret spy to Queen Victoria, must infiltrate the Devil’s Sons, tearing the brotherhood apart from the inside. His mission – to bring evil men to justice while atoning for the sins of his family, proving honour is stronger than tainted blood. There’s only one problem. A canny maid who is always in the right place at the wrong time and who deliciously challenges his every order.
Liam and Penny are unknowingly playing a dangerous game from opposite sides of justice. And at a masked ball, forbidden attraction burns into something far more complex as their secrets spin into daring confessions. This battle against their enemy will only be won if Penny and Liam can work together.
Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway and secret spy to Queen Victoria, must infiltrate the Devil’s Sons, tearing the brotherhood apart from the inside. His mission – to bring evil men to justice while atoning for the sins of his family, proving honour is stronger than tainted blood. There’s only one problem. A canny maid who is always in the right place at the wrong time and who deliciously challenges his every order.
Liam and Penny are unknowingly playing a dangerous game from opposite sides of justice. And at a masked ball, forbidden attraction burns into something far more complex as their secrets spin into daring confessions. This battle against their enemy will only be won if Penny and Liam can work together.
September 3, 2025
4.5 stars. I think the romance in this book was my favorite of the three so far! And the plot is ramping up, can't wait to start the next book!
February 26, 2025
3.8 🌟
This book is perfect for those readers that, like me, love to read forbidden romance in historical settings. The class division is always a hit and this was no exception! Penny and Liam know that the stakes are high, but they can’t help themselves to feel that attraction as well as that if-possibility that is so reminiscent of old fairy tales. However, Penny is no Cinderella, nor she wants to be, and Liam is no Prince Charming which is what made their characters so interesting: they felt like real people trying to navigate as best as they could the constrictions of the 19th century society. Their dynamic was just delightful to read and the mystery plot just added even more engagement to it. I recommend reading the first two books to better understand the events & all the characters involved.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC 🫶🏻
This book is perfect for those readers that, like me, love to read forbidden romance in historical settings. The class division is always a hit and this was no exception! Penny and Liam know that the stakes are high, but they can’t help themselves to feel that attraction as well as that if-possibility that is so reminiscent of old fairy tales. However, Penny is no Cinderella, nor she wants to be, and Liam is no Prince Charming which is what made their characters so interesting: they felt like real people trying to navigate as best as they could the constrictions of the 19th century society. Their dynamic was just delightful to read and the mystery plot just added even more engagement to it. I recommend reading the first two books to better understand the events & all the characters involved.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC 🫶🏻
February 7, 2025
In this third instalment of the 'Queen's Deadly Damsels', we follow housemaid Penny Smith and Lord William Renquist as they both work to dismantle the corrupt 'Devil's Sons' organisation.
'The Confessions of a Lady' is a victorian times historical spy romance, ripe with sizzling back and forth banter and yearning. Each with secret agendas of their own, Penny and Liam work to uncover the truth, all whilst resisting their blatant desire for one another.
This novel is an absolutely beautiful romance! And the steamy love scenes were perfection! With such different social stations in life, their craving is all the more enticing!
Our heroine Penny is unafraid to be her bold, brazen self, with her sharp tongue and wit; and Liam made sure at every stage he treated Penny as his equal, regardless of her station.
I really loved Liam's realisations about the disadvantages and hardships his servants faced, and the frustration he felt with himself each time for not realising or doing something about it sooner.
The writing in this novel was very well detailed, following both Penny and Liam's POVs. All their thoughts and deepest fantasies were laid across the page for the reader. My only critique is that at times things were described quite repetitively. I think this added to the length of some of the chapters being longer than they needed to be. But still, the story and plot was captivating. You can tell the author cares a lot for these characters, having gone to great detail laying out their backgrounds and morals, and dreams for their futures.
Although this novel is the third in a series, I read it not knowing anything about the previous books, and still had a great time! It can definitely be read as a standalone!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this!
*I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) for free in exchange for an honest review*
'The Confessions of a Lady' is a victorian times historical spy romance, ripe with sizzling back and forth banter and yearning. Each with secret agendas of their own, Penny and Liam work to uncover the truth, all whilst resisting their blatant desire for one another.
This novel is an absolutely beautiful romance! And the steamy love scenes were perfection! With such different social stations in life, their craving is all the more enticing!
Our heroine Penny is unafraid to be her bold, brazen self, with her sharp tongue and wit; and Liam made sure at every stage he treated Penny as his equal, regardless of her station.
I really loved Liam's realisations about the disadvantages and hardships his servants faced, and the frustration he felt with himself each time for not realising or doing something about it sooner.
The writing in this novel was very well detailed, following both Penny and Liam's POVs. All their thoughts and deepest fantasies were laid across the page for the reader. My only critique is that at times things were described quite repetitively. I think this added to the length of some of the chapters being longer than they needed to be. But still, the story and plot was captivating. You can tell the author cares a lot for these characters, having gone to great detail laying out their backgrounds and morals, and dreams for their futures.
Although this novel is the third in a series, I read it not knowing anything about the previous books, and still had a great time! It can definitely be read as a standalone!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read and review this!
*I received this book as an Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) for free in exchange for an honest review*
January 24, 2025
I devoured The Confessions of a Lady in one sitting—it's that captivating! This spicy historical romance is set in the world of upstairs/downstairs drama, where Penny Smith, a seemingly unremarkable housemaid, secretly serves as a spy for the Prime Minister. Her mission is to keep an eye on Lord William Renquist, the Marquess of Stoneway, who is suspected of being involved with the Devil’s Sons. But as Penny gets closer to Lord Renquist, she finds herself questioning everything she’s been told. His actions don't match the evidence, and instead of a villain, she encounters a man who challenges her heart and her loyalties.
The chemistry between Penny and William is electric from the start. Their slow-burn attraction is masterfully built, culminating in a deliciously intense forbidden romance. The setting of a masked ball adds a layer of tension and mystery, and the contrast between their social statuses—maid and marquess—heightens the stakes for their relationship. What I loved most about the book was the way it balanced the intrigue of espionage with the heat of their connection, all while exploring themes of trust, duty, and redemption.
McGuire’s writing is engaging and vivid, and I couldn’t get enough of the well-developed characters. Penny is clever and resourceful, and William is both honorable and flawed, an irresistible combination. The plot twists kept me on my toes, and though I would have liked a bit more depth in the final resolution, The Confessions of a Lady is a thrilling, steamy read. If you enjoy historical romance with a strong dose of suspense, this book is a must-read!
✧˖°. ⤷ I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
The chemistry between Penny and William is electric from the start. Their slow-burn attraction is masterfully built, culminating in a deliciously intense forbidden romance. The setting of a masked ball adds a layer of tension and mystery, and the contrast between their social statuses—maid and marquess—heightens the stakes for their relationship. What I loved most about the book was the way it balanced the intrigue of espionage with the heat of their connection, all while exploring themes of trust, duty, and redemption.
McGuire’s writing is engaging and vivid, and I couldn’t get enough of the well-developed characters. Penny is clever and resourceful, and William is both honorable and flawed, an irresistible combination. The plot twists kept me on my toes, and though I would have liked a bit more depth in the final resolution, The Confessions of a Lady is a thrilling, steamy read. If you enjoy historical romance with a strong dose of suspense, this book is a must-read!
✧˖°. ⤷ I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review, and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
February 10, 2025
Heads up: I received a free ARC of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.
This was a fun one. It’s part of a series, though I can confirm it works as a standalone as I haven’t read the other books (though I probably will after this). Liam and Penny have palpable chemistry, and while Liam at times felt like just a guy to me, Penny was remarkable. I loved her wit, street smarts, and the clever ways she used her hat pins (and brass knuckles) in a fight. I absolutely understand why the marquess adored her because I did as well.
I will say I did find the book to be quite repetitive when it came to reminding me of Penny’s station at times. And while I think that was helpful some of the time—as it was a regular reminder of the danger she was in—there did come a point where I was like, “ok I get it, so what happens next???” I also feel like the ending was a bit abrupt and I would have liked a little more following the resolution of the final conflict.
But all in all, I had such a good time with The Confessions of a Lady, and I hope future installments in the series show a bit of Penny’s fire on the side, even when there are other characters at the fore.
This was a shortened version of my review. Read the full thing. Also, let’s be friends on threads and bookstagram.
This was a fun one. It’s part of a series, though I can confirm it works as a standalone as I haven’t read the other books (though I probably will after this). Liam and Penny have palpable chemistry, and while Liam at times felt like just a guy to me, Penny was remarkable. I loved her wit, street smarts, and the clever ways she used her hat pins (and brass knuckles) in a fight. I absolutely understand why the marquess adored her because I did as well.
I will say I did find the book to be quite repetitive when it came to reminding me of Penny’s station at times. And while I think that was helpful some of the time—as it was a regular reminder of the danger she was in—there did come a point where I was like, “ok I get it, so what happens next???” I also feel like the ending was a bit abrupt and I would have liked a little more following the resolution of the final conflict.
But all in all, I had such a good time with The Confessions of a Lady, and I hope future installments in the series show a bit of Penny’s fire on the side, even when there are other characters at the fore.
This was a shortened version of my review. Read the full thing. Also, let’s be friends on threads and bookstagram.
December 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
This is the third book in the series and I have loved every book so far!
This book follows Penny Smith, who is a maid we met in the previous book and Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway .
Penny is trying to help uncover the ongoing mystery of the Devils Son and has been told by a trusted Constable that the Commissioner will pay good money for any information to help unplot this heinous group. Penny is informed that the Commissioner believe Lord Renquist to be about of the Devils Son. Penny is desperate for this reward money to finally free her mum from prison - where she has been held for the Vagrancy Act which the Marquess signed.
Lord Renquist - Liam is actually reeling from the death of his brother and half brother after learning his brother was apart of the Devils Sons - he is working for the Queen undercover to infiltrate this group and take it down from the inside.
However soon Penny catches the eye of Liam , her beauty but her brazen honesty and verbal sparring awaken something in him he thought long dead. But a maid and Marquess could never been together in the world of the Beau Monde- or could they?
I really enjoyed this book - the whole series has been brilliant. I love a strong female character in a time when women had very little rights and the open-minded men who adore them. I loved Pennys fire and seeing Liam soften for her.
I hope the next book we get to see Ivy more!
This is the third book in the series and I have loved every book so far!
This book follows Penny Smith, who is a maid we met in the previous book and Lord William Renquist, Marquess of Stoneway .
Penny is trying to help uncover the ongoing mystery of the Devils Son and has been told by a trusted Constable that the Commissioner will pay good money for any information to help unplot this heinous group. Penny is informed that the Commissioner believe Lord Renquist to be about of the Devils Son. Penny is desperate for this reward money to finally free her mum from prison - where she has been held for the Vagrancy Act which the Marquess signed.
Lord Renquist - Liam is actually reeling from the death of his brother and half brother after learning his brother was apart of the Devils Sons - he is working for the Queen undercover to infiltrate this group and take it down from the inside.
However soon Penny catches the eye of Liam , her beauty but her brazen honesty and verbal sparring awaken something in him he thought long dead. But a maid and Marquess could never been together in the world of the Beau Monde- or could they?
I really enjoyed this book - the whole series has been brilliant. I love a strong female character in a time when women had very little rights and the open-minded men who adore them. I loved Pennys fire and seeing Liam soften for her.
I hope the next book we get to see Ivy more!
December 19, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC of this story, this is my objective review. Penny is a maid trying to free her mother from prison: she's planning to collect the reward money for providing information on a nefarious trafficking group called the Devil's Sons. Lord William Renquist (Liam), an ex-soldier whose younger brother was involved with the Devil's Sons, is suspected of involvement with the group as well. Penny (who we meet in the previous book) is placed as a maid in Liam's household to gather information and hopefully earn enough to pay for her mother's freedom.
Penny was a formidable character, and Liam was endearing as he desperately tried to avoid becoming bitter and punitive like his father and corrupt like his brother. There is instant attraction that of course they both fight, which lent a nice amount of additional tension to the story. The characters are engaging, and the plot draws you in. It's not a humorous story but there's an underlying dry wit that's pleasing. This is the third in an enjoyable series, I would recommend that you read the previous two books before this one as it doesn't work as a standalone. I love the series and this was an engaging book and a solid story, but it didn't grab me as much as the second book. That said, there's plenty of drama and intrigue and danger mixed into this sweet-but-fierce upstairs-downstairs open-door romance. Publishes February 9, 2025.
Penny was a formidable character, and Liam was endearing as he desperately tried to avoid becoming bitter and punitive like his father and corrupt like his brother. There is instant attraction that of course they both fight, which lent a nice amount of additional tension to the story. The characters are engaging, and the plot draws you in. It's not a humorous story but there's an underlying dry wit that's pleasing. This is the third in an enjoyable series, I would recommend that you read the previous two books before this one as it doesn't work as a standalone. I love the series and this was an engaging book and a solid story, but it didn't grab me as much as the second book. That said, there's plenty of drama and intrigue and danger mixed into this sweet-but-fierce upstairs-downstairs open-door romance. Publishes February 9, 2025.
Read
April 29, 2025In the latest novel featuring the Queen’s Deadly Damsels, readers follow housemaid Penny Smith as she fades into the background at Lord William Renquist’s city home, as she is here to investigate his involvement with the Devil’s Sons. However, the mission doesn’t line up with the reality because William Renquist is also a spy for the queen whose mission is to infiltrate the Devil’s Sons, and Penny’s habit of always being in the right place just doesn’t make sense. Constantly bumping into each other, working on different sides, and dealing with ever-increasing chemistry, Penny and Liam have their work cut out for them during this investigation. Entertaining and with some serious high stakes in this battle of upstairs-downstairs espionage, readers will love the spicy chemistry between the two protagonists and the unique investigation they are both on. The characters are, of course, the stars of the novel, and readers will love Penny’s strengths and her skills, while her backstory is particularly interesting and period-typical. The historical context and the class divide adds another level to their relationship, while the forbidden nature of their relationship will really draw in the romance fans. Well-written, detailed, and tropey, readers will love the latest novel in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
January 28, 2025
A historical romance with social commentary was not what I was expecting, but sign me right up! From the very beginning though, it was evident that this story would blend in social commentary pointing to the gender and socioeconomic inequities of Victorian England. The story follows Penny Smith, a maid spying on her employer, Lord Williams “Liam” Renquist, for information on a criminal secret organization. Both are attempting to bring down this organization but from different angles. Throughout the novel Penny finds it difficult to reconcile her suspicions with the kindness and gentleness that Lord Renquist displays to those in his employ.
The dialogue and inner monologues in this novel are just delightful. The humor sounds very British, which makes sense for the novel, and it’s also a little bit silly, but in a way that makes for an enjoyable read. You get to see both Penny and Liam’s thoughts as they’re verbally sparring. One thing I did find a bit off was the pacing with their romance. It required a little bit more suspension of belief than I am used to with romance novels, but given how fun the story was, it’s an issue I quickly glossed over.
Disclaimer: I read this as an arc on NetGalley
The dialogue and inner monologues in this novel are just delightful. The humor sounds very British, which makes sense for the novel, and it’s also a little bit silly, but in a way that makes for an enjoyable read. You get to see both Penny and Liam’s thoughts as they’re verbally sparring. One thing I did find a bit off was the pacing with their romance. It required a little bit more suspension of belief than I am used to with romance novels, but given how fun the story was, it’s an issue I quickly glossed over.
Disclaimer: I read this as an arc on NetGalley
February 9, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to think of “The Confessions of a Lady” at first. I have really enjoyed the other books in this series but I don’t always like the class difference trope in historical romances. The first half of this novel was a bit hard to get through. Penny a maid in Liam’s household is investigating the Lord. She needs to save her mom from prison by collecting the reward money when she finds information on him to bribe the guards. I didn’t love how she was treated in the house and I struggled to get through parts of the book in the first half. What kept me going was how wonderful Liam was with Penny and the chemistry between the two MC’s.
The second part of the story hooked me in as other characters from previous books in the series get involved and the mystery started to pick up. I loved how Liam was with Penny despite the class difference. He decided she was it for him and never wavered from that certainty. Penny was afraid but courageous in her ability to take a leap of faith for Liam and the main conflict was really good, if not a bit dark, and not a third act break up! Overall I did enjoy this read even though I was not sure I would in the beginning. If there are more books in the series I will definitely continue to read them.
The second part of the story hooked me in as other characters from previous books in the series get involved and the mystery started to pick up. I loved how Liam was with Penny despite the class difference. He decided she was it for him and never wavered from that certainty. Penny was afraid but courageous in her ability to take a leap of faith for Liam and the main conflict was really good, if not a bit dark, and not a third act break up! Overall I did enjoy this read even though I was not sure I would in the beginning. If there are more books in the series I will definitely continue to read them.
December 27, 2024
As much as I loved the last book in this series, I think I adored these characters and their story even more in this one… is that possible??
Penny is completely different from the previous leading ladies in this series, through her actions, station, and attitude. I adored her as main character, especially after meeting her in the previous book.
One thing that I never thought I’d say is that this series has made me kinda love miscommunication?? Okay maybe just miscommunication when it comes to you accidentally fighting your significant other because one of you is working for the queen and the other is working for the prime minister…
This book was packed heavy with plot twists, mystery, romance, and betrayal. I absolutely loved the upstairs/downstairs aspect and thought it was so well done. I loved seeing Liam care for Penny and watching these two fall in love! 🥹🫶🏻
And of course, I loved seeing all of these amazing characters again and their friendships.
My only itty bitty bit of confusion was Liam’s relationship to Drake and Killian… since I thought they were friends with his brother. Either way, I enjoyed their backstory!!
Penny is completely different from the previous leading ladies in this series, through her actions, station, and attitude. I adored her as main character, especially after meeting her in the previous book.
One thing that I never thought I’d say is that this series has made me kinda love miscommunication?? Okay maybe just miscommunication when it comes to you accidentally fighting your significant other because one of you is working for the queen and the other is working for the prime minister…
This book was packed heavy with plot twists, mystery, romance, and betrayal. I absolutely loved the upstairs/downstairs aspect and thought it was so well done. I loved seeing Liam care for Penny and watching these two fall in love! 🥹🫶🏻
And of course, I loved seeing all of these amazing characters again and their friendships.
My only itty bitty bit of confusion was Liam’s relationship to Drake and Killian… since I thought they were friends with his brother. Either way, I enjoyed their backstory!!
January 18, 2025
A spicy upstairs/downstairs spy adventure with a lot more passion than plot. Romance lovers will find this a quick, heart-racing read, but little thin on the spy plot/through storyline of the series.
Millicent's former maid, Penny, has taken a position in the home of the new lord Renquist to determine if he is also a part of his brother's evil plot and earn reward money to free her mother from debtor's prison.
Liam, Lord Renquist is thankfully, the opposite of his father and brother and wants to make amends for his family's evil doings by taking down the Devil's Sons as a covert agent.
The moment he meets Penny, it's love at first sight, but pressing an upstairs/downstairs relationship isn't the honorable start to his new life. They fight their attraction to each other but ultimately a spicy love affair ensues, and they team up with the rest of the Deadly Damsels and their hubbies to take down 1/3 of the baddies.
Now we know there are three main baddies the ladies need to take down in the sinister Devil's Sons gang before they ship off or kill any more young women which means at least TWO more books to this fun and sexy series!
Millicent's former maid, Penny, has taken a position in the home of the new lord Renquist to determine if he is also a part of his brother's evil plot and earn reward money to free her mother from debtor's prison.
Liam, Lord Renquist is thankfully, the opposite of his father and brother and wants to make amends for his family's evil doings by taking down the Devil's Sons as a covert agent.
The moment he meets Penny, it's love at first sight, but pressing an upstairs/downstairs relationship isn't the honorable start to his new life. They fight their attraction to each other but ultimately a spicy love affair ensues, and they team up with the rest of the Deadly Damsels and their hubbies to take down 1/3 of the baddies.
Now we know there are three main baddies the ladies need to take down in the sinister Devil's Sons gang before they ship off or kill any more young women which means at least TWO more books to this fun and sexy series!
February 3, 2025
This book was such a fun quick read, and a great palate cleanser.
We follow Penny, a maid on a mission to gather information about a sinister brotherhood the Devil's Sons. ; and Liam (Lord William Renquist) the Marquess of Stoneway and who is also a secret spy to Queen Victoria. Penny of course has no clue that Liam is working for the Queen and is determined to find evidence to prove his guilt and connection to the Devil’s sons.
I actually really enjoyed this book, I think it was just what I needed - a fun, quick read with a mystery element that was interesting albeit a little predictable. I enjoyed the cameos of the characters from the previous books in the series, but I definitely think the book could easily be read as a standalone too!
The book definitely has insta-lust for want of a better way to describe it but I feel that Penny’s internal conflict about her attraction to Liam made things a little more believable.
Overall a short and sweet read that I’d be happy to recommend to readers of the genre!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
We follow Penny, a maid on a mission to gather information about a sinister brotherhood the Devil's Sons. ; and Liam (Lord William Renquist) the Marquess of Stoneway and who is also a secret spy to Queen Victoria. Penny of course has no clue that Liam is working for the Queen and is determined to find evidence to prove his guilt and connection to the Devil’s sons.
I actually really enjoyed this book, I think it was just what I needed - a fun, quick read with a mystery element that was interesting albeit a little predictable. I enjoyed the cameos of the characters from the previous books in the series, but I definitely think the book could easily be read as a standalone too!
The book definitely has insta-lust for want of a better way to describe it but I feel that Penny’s internal conflict about her attraction to Liam made things a little more believable.
Overall a short and sweet read that I’d be happy to recommend to readers of the genre!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 10, 2025
I'm really glad that I had the opportunity to read and review this story after reading the previous one last fall. I'm generally a sucker for an upstairs/downstairs romance, and this didn't disappoint. Penny does an excellent job of reminding Liam over and over again that even if he has the best of intentions, his life and experience as a titled man is vastly different than his female domestic staff. The romance between the two felt realistic, though I'm glad that I knew about the trials suffered by the heroes in the previous books as this one does not outline the reasons that Liam is so tortured beyond hinting at battle and torture.
That this does not wring out miscommunication, and instead has the two main characters working together against the primary conflict of the book was a great narrative choice. I always love when there is no final act breakup and the conflict and tension comes from outside the couple.
That this does not wring out miscommunication, and instead has the two main characters working together against the primary conflict of the book was a great narrative choice. I always love when there is no final act breakup and the conflict and tension comes from outside the couple.
September 19, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
This series continues with two people who think their darkness inside could never meet a match, until they meet each other. Throw in a dash of upstairs-downstairs action while the two investigate each other and a secret society of literal demons. And you get this dark but witty story. Again, don’t let the illustrative covers fool you; this one has high spice, high angst, and high emotion. Penny and Liam are both trying to bring down the Devils Sons, but in doing so seem to crack open each other's literal souls. I knew going into this one it likely wasn’t going to be my fave of the series, but I wanted to read the series in totality. I’m not a fan of maid/gentleman of the house books, nor do I love miscommunication as a plot device. And this book had both of those things in spades. That said, I still enjoyed the story and continue to be invested in these characters.
It was nice seeing the duchess again, and I enjoyed her friendship with Liam, which was the total opposite of her vibe before this book. It surprised me that she was sus of Penny, but that also made me love her more because she keeps surprising me. This one continued to go leaps and bounds to build her character and has me excited for her book.
This series continues with two people who think their darkness inside could never meet a match, until they meet each other. Throw in a dash of upstairs-downstairs action while the two investigate each other and a secret society of literal demons. And you get this dark but witty story. Again, don’t let the illustrative covers fool you; this one has high spice, high angst, and high emotion. Penny and Liam are both trying to bring down the Devils Sons, but in doing so seem to crack open each other's literal souls. I knew going into this one it likely wasn’t going to be my fave of the series, but I wanted to read the series in totality. I’m not a fan of maid/gentleman of the house books, nor do I love miscommunication as a plot device. And this book had both of those things in spades. That said, I still enjoyed the story and continue to be invested in these characters.
It was nice seeing the duchess again, and I enjoyed her friendship with Liam, which was the total opposite of her vibe before this book. It surprised me that she was sus of Penny, but that also made me love her more because she keeps surprising me. This one continued to go leaps and bounds to build her character and has me excited for her book.
December 27, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley for this free ARC. All my views and opinions are my own.
I am a huge fan of historical romance genres, and “Confessions of A Lady” was such a treat for me to read. The initial push and pull between Penny and Liam was entertaining to watch, but I am glad the author allowed their chemistry to unfold at a quicker pace.
The book in itself is action-packed, and I found the plot involving the Devils Sons group intriguing, and I do feel the author might benefit from adding a book or two more to this series to give the overarching story a satisfying conclusion.
I did not know that this book was part of an ongoing “The Queen’s Deadly Damsels” series, so I was bit confused at the introduction of more supporting characters. I suggest to read the first 2 books of the series to enjoy “Confessions of a Lady” more.
I am a huge fan of historical romance genres, and “Confessions of A Lady” was such a treat for me to read. The initial push and pull between Penny and Liam was entertaining to watch, but I am glad the author allowed their chemistry to unfold at a quicker pace.
The book in itself is action-packed, and I found the plot involving the Devils Sons group intriguing, and I do feel the author might benefit from adding a book or two more to this series to give the overarching story a satisfying conclusion.
I did not know that this book was part of an ongoing “The Queen’s Deadly Damsels” series, so I was bit confused at the introduction of more supporting characters. I suggest to read the first 2 books of the series to enjoy “Confessions of a Lady” more.
January 12, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I love a good forbidden romance so the prospect of this book along with the maid turned spy plotline was very exciting! This was a quick and enjoyable read over and the romance was definitely steamy.
Pros: I loved that Penny was a fierce and independent woman, she was so capable it was refreshing to read a historical romance with such a strong leading lady. I enjoyed the espionage element of the plot, it added tension and stakes to the story.
Cons: the relationship of the two characters felt much too rushed for my tastes, I struggled to believe they were in love after 2 weeks. This didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy their relationship, just that the speed took ne out of it a bit. This was also true for the lack of barriers to their love, I wish there was a bit more resistance to a peer and maid getting together openly to add a little realism and additional tension.
This was an enjoyable read, and a great remedy for those looking to fill a hole left by Bridgerton!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
I love a good forbidden romance so the prospect of this book along with the maid turned spy plotline was very exciting! This was a quick and enjoyable read over and the romance was definitely steamy.
Pros: I loved that Penny was a fierce and independent woman, she was so capable it was refreshing to read a historical romance with such a strong leading lady. I enjoyed the espionage element of the plot, it added tension and stakes to the story.
Cons: the relationship of the two characters felt much too rushed for my tastes, I struggled to believe they were in love after 2 weeks. This didn’t mean I didn’t enjoy their relationship, just that the speed took ne out of it a bit. This was also true for the lack of barriers to their love, I wish there was a bit more resistance to a peer and maid getting together openly to add a little realism and additional tension.
This was an enjoyable read, and a great remedy for those looking to fill a hole left by Bridgerton!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for my honest review
February 3, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing the ARC.
So a regency mystery story with romance??? Obsessed!! This story is about a marquess trying to infiltrate a crime syndicate and a maid trying to frame said marquess as she is trying to free her mother. But OH HOH??? It gets pretty STEAMY as the two of them fall in love and more shenanigans ensue!
So I didn’t realize this was the third book, so some of the other characters went a bit over my head, but they were ALL iconic. I also felt it was a lil insta love for me, but I felt that there was an equal amount of plot and romance that it didn’t overtake anything. I felt that Penny and Liam as main characters were solid, intricate, and very very fun to fall in love with!
This was a great quick read! And I’m definitely gonna read the other books in this series!
So a regency mystery story with romance??? Obsessed!! This story is about a marquess trying to infiltrate a crime syndicate and a maid trying to frame said marquess as she is trying to free her mother. But OH HOH??? It gets pretty STEAMY as the two of them fall in love and more shenanigans ensue!
So I didn’t realize this was the third book, so some of the other characters went a bit over my head, but they were ALL iconic. I also felt it was a lil insta love for me, but I felt that there was an equal amount of plot and romance that it didn’t overtake anything. I felt that Penny and Liam as main characters were solid, intricate, and very very fun to fall in love with!
This was a great quick read! And I’m definitely gonna read the other books in this series!
February 7, 2025
I really enjoyed McGuire's last book, "A Lady's Lesson in Scandal," and I found myself similarly pulled in by this new book, "The Confessions of a Lady." McGuire has created a fun, Victorian world full of intrigue, romance, and vivid characters. I appreciated how both Liam and Penny had room to grow, and they each had believable challenges in the book. Penny is scrappy and savvy, a perfectly saucy maid in the house of Liam, who's managed to convince himself he's really a monster just waiting to break loose. They take turns saving one another, both physically and metaphorically, and I enjoyed the banter along with the shifting power dynamics. I found the dialogue quick and witty, the action scenes well-paced and well-described, and the settings perfect. I really liked the mystery plot running parallel to the romance. I'm looking forward to reading more from McGuire!
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