The Hidden Lord

by Nina Jarrett

An audacious young woman. A mysterious lord. And a rescue turned kidnapping that may unlock a great passion.
In this steamy historical romance, a young woman tries to help solve a centuries old mystery, while a secretive lord tries to uncover the truth about a murder. When the two collide, chaos ensures. But perhaps chaos is the key to discovering true love?

She's trying to prove she can keep a secret ...
Henri Bigsby is mortified to learn that she is considered a gossip. So when she encounters a mystery to be solved, she is determined to prove she can keep her mouth shut and help a new friend. The only problem is, they did not expect that dangerous opposing forces might be trying to solve it, too.

He can't allow his secrets to be disclosed ...
When Lord Gabriel Strathmore rescues a young woman, he is dismayed to discover she is the girl known to have Parliament's loosest lips. With a sensitive diplomatic negotiation under way, and lives hanging in the balance, he cannot afford for Miss Bigsby to gossip about his presence in London. He is forced to take the protesting young miss with him against her will.

Now the two of them are spending a lot of time together, and discovering that what was once a passing attraction may lead to something much deeper if they can find a way to work together.
The Hidden Lord is the delightful second book in the Inconvenient Ventures Regency adventure romance series, set within Nina Jarrett’s bestselling Inconvenient Brides world. Each sub-series can be enjoyed on its own, with a new romance in every volume. If you enjoy clever clues, secret societies, daring heroines, and heart-stopping kisses, then you’ll adore Nina Jarrett’s charming novel. Can be read as a standalone book or as part of the series.

Buy The Hidden Lord for a tale of adventure and passion today!
What to expect:
✔️ Kissing
✔️ Open Door

Included Historical Romance Tropes:
✔️ Forced Proximity
✔️ Enemies to Lovers (Guarded Hero, Blunt Heroine)
✔️ Stoic Diplomat Hero
✔️ Working Class Heroine
✔️ Spinster
✔️ Arthurian Legend Mystery
✔️ Rescued Reputation

Genres: Historical Romance

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 20, 2025

About the author

Nina started writing her own stories in elementary school but quickly grew distracted when she finished school and moved on to non-profit work with recovering drug addicts. There she worked with people from every walk of life from privileged neighborhoods to the shanty towns of urban and rural South Africa.

One day she met a real-life romantic hero. She instantly married her fellow bibliophile and moved to the USA where she enjoyed a career as a sales coaching executive at an Inc 500 company. She lives with her husband on the Florida Gulf Coast.

Nina believes in kindness and the indomitable power of the human spirit. She is fascinated by the amazing, funny people she has met across the world who dared to change their lives. She likes to tell mischievous tales of life-changing decisions and character transformations while drinking excellent coffee and avoiding cookies.

Reviews

[Alexandra G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another book I eagerly devoured! Or did it devour me?
Professional acquaintances with a secret crush, cross Chanel kidnapping, Da Vinci vs Arthur, the lesser of two evils, strongarmed into marriage, storming the fortress, a secret message that needs deciphering, a scholar’s inexplicable mµrder, a murky madman, fable, folklore, a rare manuscript hiding the answers, and an unfinished quest.

Meet your tenacious protagonists:
Henrietta – daughter of a successful businesswoman, nearly 30, independent, bubbly, vivacious, occasionally loose-lipped private secretary to her uncle, a prominent politician, and intrigued by the man’s fascination for Arthurian Legend.
Gabriel – orphaned at the age of 5, sent away by his relatives, raised by his tutor, ex military man turned diplomat, viscount, shrewd negotiator, sporadic undercover agent, intensely private, achingly lonely and emotionally constipated.

This entire story is one long boat and road trip with a few short layovers. It’s two intriguing plotlines artfully woven together with a lot going on, yet it remains very character focused.
She’s unwilling to sacrifice anything for marriage, and he’s so miserably misguided when it comes to emotions, yet they both love each other so very bloody much! Their physical connection sizzles and sparks, but verbally it’s an uphill battle. He’s so closed off, and she refuses to let him get away with it. It’s conflict, frustration and hurt, not always pretty, but when they’re good it’s absolutely gorgeous – and delectable!
It felt raw and real, and I was completely invested!

A mesmerising, tumultuous ride I highly recommend if you’re looking for a change of scenery, and as with this author’s previous series, the romance comes full circle, but you’ll have to stick around a couple more books to solve the bigger mystery – and I am definitely here for it!

[Sonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the story of a couple that fell in love while they were in the midst of a dangerous adventure. Gabriel and Henri were only slightly acquainted when Gabriel saved her life and also kidnapped her. Needless to say, Henri was frightened and questioned her instincts in regard to Gabriel's character. The fact that Gabriel was a very private person who guarded his heart did not help matters one bit. By the time the dust settled, the couple found themselves married.

The adventure in this book reminded me of the "DaVinci Code." Gabriel and Henri's problem-solving skills complemented each other perfectly as they traveled from one location to another. I was happy to see the couple get their happy ending and I'm now looking forward to seeing what new directions the mystery takes the next couple.

I received a free ARC from BookSirens and this is my honest review.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Henrietta Bigsby is her uncle's private secretary. He is a political advisor to Westminster and currently out of London. Henri is bored. Opportunity for adventure comes when a neighbor's Italian guest discovers a map within his ancestor's painting. A book written about King Arthur could be the source to decipher the codes on the map.
Enter Gabriel, Viscount Trenwith.
He too is looking for the same book in connection to the murder of a dear friend. When the murderer threatens Henri, Gabriel's first impulse is to protect her. Kidnapping???...to France??? This is one emotional rollercoaster!!! A disappointing ending. The next book picks up where this left off.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.

[Bonnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Booksprout and Booksirens for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is a continuation of the Inconvenient world, and while there are some references to characters and situations that have occured in other books, one does not have to read the whole slew of the previous books to enjoy this. But it may be helpful to read The Courtship Trap to have more background to the search scenario, and The Trouble with Titles introduces the Bigsby family, as that is the story of Madeline, the twin of the MFC in this story, Henri.

This story occurs in the aftermath of Madeline's marriage, and Henri is suffering from some ennui and self reflection. She is at a bit of a loss because her uncle, a noted politician and scholar that she is secretary for, is away, and her sister is on her honeymoon. Because she is used to quite an active and satisfying social and professional life as secretary for her uncle, Henri is a bit bored. She has also discovered that she is considered to be rather a gossip and lacking in discretion in her communication and does not like to be painted as such.

So when she when she discovers that she has knowledge and skills that can help her neighbours, the Scotts, with the mystery of their ancestor's artwork, she cannot help but want to be involved. It will relieve her ennui, provide her with a challenge, and she can prove she can keep secrets.

This leads her on a roadtrip to visit a scholar who is selling part of his library, which contains an original of a work that she believes may unlock clues in the art they are looking into.

That is when things take and unexpected and dangerous turn for Henri, as she finds herself being threatened at gunpoint by a stranger seeking the same book, and then suddenly saved by a stranger. That stranger turns out to be Lord Gabriel Strathmore. Their lives intersect because Gabriel is in search of clues as to who murdered his mentor. He is also on an official mission for the Crown, involving negotiations with the French that must remain secret, and his trek to scout for clues into the murder must remain secret - and that clue happens to be the same tome that Henri is researching as well. In the heat of the moment, Gabriel grabs up Henri, and what they are both seeking, and takes her away with him.

This is a forced proximity, murder mystery, treasure hunt, forced marriage historical romance that was quite steamy. There was DaVinci Code vibes as Henri and Gabriel decode and seek out the clues. But Gabriel, because of his work with the Crown, and his own tortured past, is too used to being a lone wolf and despite his growing desire to be close to Henri, is too used to keeping his emotions hidden and acting on his own. Henri, despite being kidnapped and essentially forced to marry or lose her reputation and likewise threaten her family's business and her uncle's political career, finds herself developing friendship and feelings for Gabriel, except when he turns cold and shuts her out of things. She is hopeful of a developing a relationship based on respect and shared communication, and there certainly is attraction and passion, but Gabriel repeatedly shuts her out. She becomes more frustrated and fearful of losing herself in a future with Gabriel, if he continues to include and consider her in decisions and discussions.

Gabriel is aware of her frustrations and his own desire to have more, but is he able to overcome his own fears and open up to Henri?

A solid romance that intertwines with an adventurous treasure hunt, with the tension of relationship miscommunication and being chased by a possible murderer. Loved it.

4.5 stars out of 5

[Marion Löw · Rating 4 out of 5]

Secrets, Myths And Emotions

I enjoyed this captivating mix of romance, murder mystery, treasure hunt and road trip adventure. The plot is very well written, fast-paced,has opposites attract, marriage of convenience and close/forced proximity tropes and is filled with mythical and geographical tidbits, palpable emotion, action, suspense, danger and spice. The characters are both very complex. Gabriel has a difficult past that has made him controlling and secretive, while Henri is lively, extremely independent, and stubborn. Lack of communication, secrets and misunderstandings lead to frustration and resentment on her part and fears and even more reticence on his. Even though I could empathize with both of them, their tense relationship dragged on for too long and became a bit too much for me.
I recommend reading at least the previous book to better follow this story, which once again ends with a cliffhanger.

Henrietta "Henri" Bigsby loves her independence and her challenging work as her great-uncle's private secretary. When she overhears a conversation between her neighbors in their shared garden, she decides to help Lorenzo do Bianchi search for his ancestor's legacy. All clues point to it being connected to the Arthurian legend, and her great-uncle is an expert and collector. When a rare manuscript is offered at auction, Henri plans to view it in advance and solve the mystery, but is attacked in the process.
Lord Gabriel Strathmore, Viscount of Trenwith, lives a reserved life that allows for no emotion. A former military man and now a diplomat, he is a master at deciphering and keeping secrets. When his tutor, the man who raised him, is murdered, Gabriel is determined to find the killer, who has also stolen a valuable book about King Arthur. While negotiating important talks in France, Gabriel learns of the manuscript and the auction and secretly abandons his mission to return to England at short notice and investigate. But when he arrives there, he encounters Henri, whom he already knows from meetings with her great-uncle, and a stranger who threatens her. On the spur of the moment, Gabriel kidnaps her, the manuscript, and Lorenzo's sketch and takes them back to France with him so that Henri, who has a reputation for indiscretion, cannot reveal anything about his secret return to England. But in doing so, he destroys her reputation and her future. Gabriel proposes marriage to her and together they set out to solve the ancient puzzle…

All in all, a gripping historical romantic suspense full of adventure, mystery, emotion and steam that I’m happy to recommend!

I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henrietta (Henri) Bigsby was the twenty-eight year old secretary to political advisor Reginald Wells, who was also her great uncle. It was in that capacity that she met Gabriel Strathmore, Viscount Trenwith, two years ago. Trenwith, who performed diplomatic missions for the Crown, was currently in Calais negotiating a treaty for the release of captured British agents. Trenwith’s childhood was less than stellar and after being dismissed by his grandfather at the age of five for crying over the deaths of both of his parents, he learned to bottle his emotions, as they were considered a sign of weakness. During his youth he formed a paternal bond with one of his tutors, Horace Pelham, who was also an expert regarding the legend of King Arthur. It was that expertise that resulted in Horace’s murder and the theft of one of his Arthurian books. Trenwith vowed to find his killer, but it would have to wait until he completed his assignment. Meanwhile Henri’s neighbor had a mystery to solve that involved a painting, a map, unusual symbols and a reference to King Arthur. When a specific Arthurian manuscript was put up for auction both Henri and Trenworth were determine to see it. However, since he was in highly sensitive negotiations, Trenwith needed to do it secretly. When he entered the library where the manuscript was kept, he ran into a surprising situation involving Henri, and knowing that she had recognized him and had a tendency to gossip, which would ruin the progress made in his dilpomatic mission, he took some decisive and reputation ruining actions. What follows is a story filled with emotional upheaval as Trenwith and Henri decipher codes, follow clues and try to avoid an unseen but dangerous entity. There are thrilling discoveries, passionate kisses, steamy encounters, intense inner dialogues, misunderstandings, terrifying moments, and heartbreaking revelations. There is an underlying intensity to this tale that keeps the reader riveted and wondering what will be discovered next. Although it is not a cliffhanger, the ending does seem to be a tee-up for the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed The Hidden Lord, the second book in the Inconvenient Ventures Regency adventure romance series, set within Nina Jarrett’s bestselling Inconvenient Brides world.

Henri Bigsby finds herself disheartened when she discovers her mother views her as a gossip incapable of keeping secrets. As the personal secretary to her Uncle Reggie, Henri's life feels routine—until his absence leaves her unchallenged and craving excitement. That opportunity comes when she overhears neighbors discussing a mystery tied to Arthurian legend. Eager to prove her worth, Henri offers her insights, earning a place in their investigation. However, she soon realizes that dangerous adversaries are also seeking the same answers.

Lord Gabriel Strathmore, mourning the loss of his former tutor and dear friend, is determined to uncover the truth behind his death. His path crosses with Henri’s when he disrupts a villain threatening her. To protect both his secret mission and Henri, he makes the impulsive decision to kidnap her, inadvertently entangling their fates.

Their journey evolves into more than just solving a mystery—it becomes a heartfelt exploration of vulnerability, compromise, and trust. When Gabriel suggests marriage to preserve Henri’s reputation, she fiercely resists, valuing her independence. Meanwhile, Gabriel grapples with his own struggles against emotional connections rooted in a troubled childhood. Can these two navigate their complex emotions, build a meaningful marriage, and solve the mystery?

The Hidden Lord is an engaging tale filled with enthralling clues, unexpected twists, a dash of angst, lurking danger, and richly layered characters learning to trust and love. Gabriel and Henri’s chemistry is captivating, and their growth throughout the story is deeply satisfying.

I highly recommend this book to fans of Regency romance infused with mystery and adventure. It’s a vibrant, gripping tale where love blossoms amid cunning schemes and hidden agendas, setting the stage brilliantly for the next installment in the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Yugie Caroline · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was - unsurprisingly, with me being already familiar with much of the author's previous works - quite an engrossing read, adeptly mixing romance, intrigue, and mystery involving Arthurian legend and Renaissance paintings.

The plot had been engaging, taking us on an adventure to various English towns where Arthurian lore thrived, while weaving a love story blossoming between the two main characters. This love story, though, was not at all a simple matter, with the main characters thrust into forced proximity by events they never saw coming. On the one hand, our hero, Gabriel, Duke of Trenwith, is a seasoned diplomat, a man who is an expert in navigating professional relationships but is so fearful of much for deeper emotional connections despite wanting it so badly. We are told of the origins of this fear, and it is responsible presently for his conflicted stance on his relationship with the heroine. On the other hand, there is Henri, fiercely independent and initially wary of marriage, but is eventually compelled to enter into it with Gabriel through his expert machinations. She falls for him, but his continued emotional distance makes her fear that their marriage would never become one of true partnership.

I thus became riveted to the story as I was eager to find out where Gabriel and Henri's quest would take them, and how they would manage to resolve their marital woes. The characters' development was a central aspect of the story, and it was engaging to witness them deal with their personal fears and hopes.

This is book two of the author's Inconvenient Ventures series, and it's gratifying to know that the adventure continues in future books with the characters introduced herein. I look forward to those even now!

I received a free review copy of this book. I leave this review voluntarily.

[Slwd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabriel and Henri

“The Hidden Lord” written by Nina Jarrett is book two in her Inconvenient Ventures series (book twelve of the overall Inconvenient Brides series). Nina Jarrett has done an absolutely wonderful job of building such an interconnected historical world with a wide range of interesting characters. “The Hidden Lord” fits right in. Because of childhood trauma, Gabriel Strathmore, heir to a viscountcy has buried all his emotions deep, hiding them so even he cannot find them. He is a great, brooding, protective hero. I liked him, my heart went out to his suffering. Henri Bigsby is just what he needs. I especially liked this character. She’s a strong willed, smart, independent, politically savvy woman who is a private secretary for her uncle who wields political power in England like no other. Henri holds her own in a man’s world. The plot of the story is extremely creative with an Arthurian quest, an attempted heist, a daring rescue, a kidnapping, a mysterious figure shadowing Gabriel and Henri’s every move, diplomatic maneuvers, seduction, and a quickie marriage. All of this adds up to a thrilling ride as we follow Gabriel and Henri from England to France, back to England, then all over the English countryside. The pacing of the story is fast, but this merely adds to the fervency of this couple’s desire to decipher clues and hurry along to the next destination. During all this travel and close proximity love binds Gabriel and Henri together. Plenty of steam and spice. This is story telling at its best. Absolutely recommended.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

[Kair · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Hidden Lord by Nina Jarrett is book 2 in the Inconvenient Ventures series. This book is part of Nina Jarrett's Regency England suspense historical romance books. While this book is part of a series, you can enjoy the book as a standalone read. I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

The heroine in this book is Henri Bigsby, whom readers might remember as the twin sister of Madeline Bigsby (from Troubles with Titles). The hero of the book is Lord Gabriel Strathmore, a diplomat and spy, whose difficult childhood turned him into a stoic and very private person. Henri is the secretary to her uncle, and is known as gossip in social circles. Determined to change her reputation, Henri sets out to help her neighbor interpret the meaning of a secret coded parchment found in the back of a painting. While looking for answers in a manuscript about King Arthur, Henri is attacked by a mysterious man. Lord Gabriel Strathmore, who is also investigating the same King Arthur manuscript, interrupts the attack and saves Henri. However, since Lord Gabriel Strathmore's presence in England can not be known, and knowing Henri is a gossip, he is forced to kidnap Henri and take her with him back to France. To preserve her reputation, Henri and Gabriel quickly marry and set off on an adventure to solve the King Arthur mystery. The story begins with a forced proximity, marriage of convenience, and turns into a harrowing adventure, with many twists and turns. As Henri and Gabriel’s story concludes the author sets up the mystery to continue in an upcoming book. Overall, the book is a quick fast paced read that is enjoyable to read.

[Bridget Love to read Lewis · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.3 stars
This story has several layers and ends on a cliff hanger!

We have a seasoned espionage spy engaged in delicate negotiations which will see captive men returned home!

Lord Gabriel Trenwith has learned that his mentor and father figure was brutally murdered! It involved a very valuable manuscript and he has tracked it the home of the scholar before auction!

He also encounters Miss Henrietta Bigsby beautiful, charming, and a terrible gossip! He rescues her from a would be murderer who will stop at nothing to get this manuscript!

Gabriel grabs the girl and the manuscript and a valuable sketch entrusted to her and leaves with them both! They flee the scene and the country! Gabriel must finish his mission for there are many lives at stake! When Henrietta aka Henri realizes his plan she is literally kicking and screaming! Gabriel has known her for two years and was intrigued and charmed but has way too many secrets!

Gabriel is very reluctant to open up to Henri and does only little at a time!

With ruination in her future Henri marries Gabriel! She has been a secretary to her uncle the famed Reginald Wells!

Henri is brilliant and an asset with the challenges they face but Gabriel blows hot and cold!

Can he trust her with his secrets? If he doesn’t it may cost him her life! Bravo

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Henrietta Bigsby is secretary for her uncle who moves in political circles. She is bored because Uncle Reggie has gone to the country for the holidays. Her interest is piqued when she hears her neighbors discussing a mystery connected to the Arthurian legend. She jumps at the chance to help solve the mystery. Lord Gabriel Strathmore, whose family cast him aside as a child, was raised, nurtured, and educated by his tutor. The man’s murder and the hint that a particular Arthurian text may have something to do with the reason he was killed sends Gabriel on a mission much like Henri’s. When they find themselves at the same place hoping to examine the text, danger strikes. In order to “rescue” her, Gabriel kidnaps her. They agree to marry, although Henri is reluctant to give up her independence, for the sake of her reputation. What follows is an enticing adventure using the text and following the clues from a mysterious sketch. While the search for answers to the mystery goes rather well, the personal side of their lives does not. Gabriel is not accustomed to opening up and trusting anyone else. Henri is disappointed, but tries to be patient with him. An interesting mystery and an emotional journey to love and trust.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent story. Well written, full of mystery, intrigue, suspense, society, love, steam, family, twists and a treasure hunt. Henrietta lives in her own world where she helps her Uncle with his business as his secretary. She loves having her independence and being a part of his world. She overhears her neighbors talking about a puzzle that they need help to decode it. So she offers her help and her Uncle's library. Gabriel is a Lord but also works for the Crown. He is in France to try to get a deal to release the men that have been held prisoners since the war. He knows that he has to go back to England to get a book that is going on sale. It's there he sees Henri being help at the point of a gun so he knocks out the man and kidnaps her to France. Not realizing the man is following them. Both have the same needs to find the answers but for different reasons. Gabriel has to share his secrets and emotions but has some horrible feelings from his childhood. And the hunts begins but for Henri to not be ruined she will have to marry Gabriel. Has lots of adventures and steam to keep the reader smiling and wanting more. Just keep turning the pages while you curl up and enjoy this story. Would strongly recommend to everyone.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good regency adventure-romance.

The Prologue is suitable cold, heartless, and forbidding.
The first half of Chapter 1 sets Henri's character quite nicely.
By the time you get to chapter 4, the various plot threads are being interwoven quite nicely and I'm hooked through to the end of the book.

There are several moving moments (e.g., a certain wedding which shows the sad contrast between expectations and reality; the reflections on Gabriel's early life).

I find that Henri[etta] is very well drawn for the reader - with the right balance of humour, pride, and vulnerability - but Gabriel is more often seen to be "so close" before self-sabotaging.

One snag that I hadn't anticipated: Although you could manage to read this book [#2 in the series] without needing the previous story, it definitely needs the next book in the series to tie off several loose ends so isn't truly a "standalone". (*I* don't mind that too much as I really enjoyed the book and would already be heading for more in the series - just thought I'd mention it.)


(I was fortunate to receive an ARC however the above is, as ever, my own opinion.)

[Robin Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Henrietta Bigsby is bored. She enjoys her work as the personal secretary to her Uncle Reggie, who moves in political circles. When she overhears her neighbors discussing an Arthurian legend and possible mystery, she jumps at the chance to be involved. Lord Gabriel Strathmore is saddened by the death of his friend and former tutor. When he finds information with a link to King Arthur, he is compelled to follow the clues. Henri and Gabriel have been loosely acquainted, but when their paths cross and danger threatens, the adventure begins! Henri wants to be independent, and feels that if she marries she will lose what she values about herself. Gabriel has shut his heart away because of childhood trauma, and doesn’t know how to truly connect with another soul. Wonderful emotional journey of opening oneself up to love and trusting another to make that connection. Lots of action as Henri and Gabriel are on a race to follow the clues and uncover the secret! Looking forward to the next mystery!
I received a free copy via Booksirens, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've enjoyed a number of Nina Jarrett's novels, but I wasn't sure that I would like this one as I've never been an Arthurian fan. I needn't have worried as the Arthurian legends are used as a clever device in which to set a number of plot threads, including a murder, a centuries old quest and, of course, the all important love story. It helps that I know some of the key locations and I would not go down that cliff, the thought made me shudder.

It's a great story with such good characterisation. The prologue is heart wrenching - how you feel for that poor little boy - but it sets the scene well for Gabriel's personality and reserve. Henri is a wonderful feisty woman who has broken out of the mould for women of the time. It's such a relief when they finally overcome all the misunderstandings. twists and turns and diversions.

The author has the skill to set a stand alone book within an ongoing mystery. I was so wrapped up in Gabriel and Henri's story that I didn't feel cheated by the mystery not being solved. I look forward to the next one.

I was lucky enough to receive a free advance copy and am very happy to leave this voluntary review.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun, fast-paced Regency romance with plenty of mystery, banter, and swoony tension. Henri Bigsby is a refreshing heroine—determined, curious, and desperate to prove she’s more than her reputation as a gossip. I loved watching her try to do the right thing, even when everything around her goes wildly wrong. Lord Gabriel Strathmore is the perfect brooding counterpart: secretive, protective, and clearly fighting feelings he never planned to have.

The “rescue turned kidnapping” trope adds lots of sparks and forced proximity, and the mystery plot keeps the story moving alongside the romance. There are secrets, danger, and just enough chaos to make the slow-burn attraction feel earned. While it’s part of a larger world, this book works well on its own and doesn’t feel confusing if you’re new to the series.

If you enjoy historical romance with clever heroines, mysterious lords, and a mix of adventure and heart, this one is a delightful read. I’ll definitely be checking out more from this series.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review. 

[T M. Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hidden Lord is an absolutely captivating addition to the series, offering a fresh and unexpected turn from its predecessor. While the previous novel centered on a tender second-chance romance and the empowerment of a group of unlikely female friends, this installment shifts focus to an edge-of-your-seat story steeped in mystery and intrigue.

What made this book stand out to me was the way the unfolding secrets and twists brought the main characters together. Their relationship developed gradually and beautifully throughout the adventure, with trust, vulnerability, and mutual support. The pacing kept me fully engaged, and I found myself unwilling to put it down until every secret was revealed.

The combination of emotional depth and suspense made The Hidden Lord truly riveting. I highly recommend it to readers who love Regency romance blended with mystery and danger. It’s a perfect read for fans of stories where love blossoms amid clever plots and hidden motives.

Thank you to Book Sirens for the advance reader copy. All opinions are my own
own.

[Kate Abbott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another great story, this one woven around Henri and Gabriel and a fascinating historical treasure hunt linked to Arthurian legend. Gabriel is a closed-off, quiet, solitary man living a secret life. When he saves Henri from a stranger with a gun — all connected to the hunt for an ancient manuscript — things spiral quickly, especially since no one must know he’s even in England. His only solution? Kidnap her. And so the adventure begins.

What follows is a fast-paced journey across England and France, filled with twists and turns that had me hooked very early on. I was especially drawn to Henri and her straightforward, pragmatic attitude, which made her a compelling and refreshing heroine.

This series continues to deliver strong, engaging stories, and I’m particularly intrigued by the mystery of the missing work that seems to be an ongoing thread through this new arc. I’m very much looking forward to finding out where it leads next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[HfbR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Henrietta Bigsby and Gabriel Strathmore, the Viscount of Trenwith. When Henri is accosted by an unknown man with a gun, Gabriel is lucky there to save her. Unfortunately she has the reputation to be a bit of a gossip, and as he is on business for the crown and can’t risk his whereabouts being known, he has no opinion but to kidnap her until his mission is concluded………

This was a very enjoyable and well written story with a plot full of intrigue and mystery. Both of of the main characters have an interesting background and their changing personalities added nicely to the story. The thread of the story continues from the first book in the Inconvenient Ventures series and the mystery continues on to the next book in this excellent series which I look forward to reading 🐈‍⬛.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tiffany P · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story had great moments that showed promise. There was witty banter between the main characters, the slow burn that hinted at their attraction, heartache for a man that was orphaned at a young age, a mystery to be solved and a villain to escape. The book was too long and wordy at times full of details about buildings, descriptions of the scenery, and Arthurian legends. It became too much and tedious. I would have liked more connection between the couple earlier on since they were married. This was a marriage of convenience to prevent scandal that occurred because of a heroic deed. I did like the main characters. It was just hard to keep reading about their internal struggles for so long. I did find myself skimming a lot of the details about the stones, buildings, and clues they followed, and the story still ended with the mystery unsolved, but they did get their HEA.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Florida Girl Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am always ready to read one of Nina Jarrett's books! The Hidden Lord is a satisfying story with a murder mystery that leads to unexpected romance set within diplomatic mission that involves kidnapping. What else could a reader want? A treasure hunt based on an Arthurian legend! This book kept me turning page after page with expected twist and turns.
The Hidden Lord is book 2 in Jarrett's Inconvenient Ventures series and since I read book 1, I am familiar with the characters who appear at the start of the book. The conclusion of Henrietta and Gabriel adventure wrapped up their romantic journey and solves the murder but not the deeper mystery that caused the murder. The deeper mystery, however, set up the direction and characters of the next book in the series. This reader cannot wait to see where Nina Jarrett takes us next!
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving a voluntary review based solely on my personal reading experience.

[Miaowwow · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the FMC she is feisty, independent and not at all like the usual society misses, she has a position usually held by a man. The MMC is a real mix of contradictions but I will let you discover those as the story unfolds. It has spice, twists & turns and is thoroughly enjoyable. Can’t wait for the next book as the mystery at the heart of the series continues.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is the second book in the Inconvenient Ventures series. I have read all the books in the previous two series and I love the ways the stories and characters intertwine appearing and reappearing throughout. I can definitely recommend all these books to any one who enjoys spicy historical romances. Once this series is complete I am going to go back to the beginning and enjoy the all over again.

[LV · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great romance and mystery rolled into one, in fact the novel gave clear Da Vinci Code type vibes at times which was enjoyable. I also loved that the main characters felt a little different from the usual romances, as Henri the mfc, whom is definitely vivacious and has a sort of busy body energy (although in a nice way, with no malice) which contrasts with the repressed, quiet and lonely Gabriel.. There is lots of intrigue, travel to various locations, both a murder mystery and deeper cryptic mystery which continues on into the next book. I'm also a fan of the Arthurian Cycle, and visited Tintagel as a child, so I was particularly fond of the references made in the book. The author has again done a lot of research and in terms of their writing style has a lively turn of phrase at points.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Cindy Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting meld of history and fiction to create a wonderful love story of Gabriel, a man who is afraid to show emotion, and Henrietta, otherwise known as Henri, a woman who is known as a gossip as her job often required her to release information her boss wanted her to release. Misunderstandings, a threat of violence, an abduction, and a sudden trip to France, finally lead to ... There should be a special place in Hell for anyone, especially a relative, to treat a little child the way Gabriel was treated after his parents died. I enjoyed the story and look forward to the next chapter in this tale. Although I received a complimentary review copy, my opinions are my own and left voluntarily.

[Pat Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh My! What a delicious story this is! Henrietta (Henri) is an independent woman who also has a habit of blabbing secrets-at least that is what she is told. Though the author never addressed that, people thinking that was enough to get her into the fix Gabriel created. Gabriel is so emotionally cut off from the world, from a circumstance not of his creation , it is painful to watch him try to understand Henri’s feelings. The story has great adventure in it, a villain who is like a dog with a bone and the mystery they chase was one I would have loved to have been on. The characters are well written with emotions that suck the reader in and the story is well paced. There is a ‘touch’ of a cliffhanger that will not bother you, but give you the desire to read the next story. Truly enjoyable!

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This Regency romance is part of the Inconvenient Brides series, and the Inconvenient Ventures series. I've read several books by this author in the past, and they're always enjoyable. Her prose is beautiful, and her characters always have great chemistry.

This instalment follows the love story of Henrietta Bigsby, or Henri, and Lord Gabriel Strathmore. I liked Henri, as she seemed self-reliant, independent and intelligent. Gabriel made me swoon a little bit, as he was gentlemanly but still oozed irresistible charm.

This was a romantic read with just the right amount of spice, and I also enjoyed the mystery element of the story too.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I found interest in the premise of the story and the hero's struggles, I did not particularly feel connected to the characters in the book. I mainly contribute this neutrality to the heroine, which, to me, came across as irresponsible and irritating in turn. I did appreciate her tenacity in the latter part of the story to persist in her desired relationship with her husband. The story also seemed somewhat disjointed and even rushed near the end. All in all, if you need a diversion from the usual storylines of "compromised in a ballroom" or "betrothed to the despicable Lord", this book should give you interesting glimpses into a different world and its machinations. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is truly full of adventure and discovery. Intelligent, analytical, and educated, you'd think they'd have a lot in common and that understanding between them would be easy, but things didn't turn out that way. I felt sorry for how Gabriel's self-esteem had been affected and the emotional burden he constantly struggled with, but I was annoyed by his rigidity and how the barriers he erected kept getting higher. The author took me through a whirlwind of emotions where I seemed to feel Henri's frustration and even expected an emotional outburst from Gabriel, but no such outburst. So much passion and still waiting for… what? I was left wondering how to give that man a push. Loved the drama and the strength and skill the heroine was and how strong and skilled was and how she was portrayed. The mystery they were trying to uncover kept me entertained, and I liked that we even got the perspective of the deranged villain, whom I didn't know whether to pity or despise. It was interesting what was going through each of their minds and how they perceived the reality of their situation. Henri proved to be very patient, loyal, and reliable despite the image she had been projecting. I was pleased that she had the insight to recognize and become what Gabriel needed all his life. I was quite moved by this. Henri had truly grown throughout the perilous adventure she had lived through. Action, suspense, adventure, strong emotions, miscommunication, mystery, secrets, intrigue, a strange villain, romance, and passion. I enjoyed reading it.

[Berta Greenleaf Richardson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Inconvenient Ventures series by Nina Jarrett. This was a wonderful love story of two people trying to come together and share their love. Each one was raised to express emotions much differently from the other. While Henri was outgoing and gregarious Gabriel was taught to keep his emotions buried and be very stoic in nature. There is a mystery with danger involved. Henri is determined that her intelligence be taken seriously, while Gabriel wants to protect her and keep her safe. I highly recommend this book to all historical romantic mystery readers.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.