The Fierce Scotsman

The Notorious Nightingales #6

by Wendy Vella

A troubled Scotsman. A determined spinster. And a kidnapping that forces them to confront the past they thought they’d left behind.

When Mungo Fraser’s young niece is kidnapped, his estranged brother unexpectedly arrives in London, reigniting family ties that Mungo thought were long severed. With time running out, they must work together to rescue her. Enter Eliza Downing, the new governess at the Nightingale household, who refuses to be ignored. Fierce, unyielding, and independent, Eliza challenges Mungo in ways no one ever has. The undeniable tension between them is thick—yet when Eliza too becomes involved, Mungo realizes that what lies between them is far more than he could have ever anticipated.

After the death of her parents, Eliza was determined not to fall into genteel poverty. Raised as a lady, she decided to forge her own path as a teacher. Everything is going to plan until she entered the Nightingale household. There, she faces a formidable Scotsman she refuses to acknowledge any feelings for—and a kidnapping that will alter the course of her life.

As Mungo and Eliza join forces to uncover the truth behind the crime, they’ll discover a love neither of them expected—one that could change everything.

Enemies Turned Lovers, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Anti-hero, Heroine in Danger

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 12, 2026

About the author

Wendy Vella is a USA Today and Amazon bestselling author of historical romances filled with mystery, intrigue, unconventional heroines, and dashing heroes.

Connect with Wendy in her Facebook reader group facebook.com/groups/wendyvellareaders or sign up for her reader newsletter at WendyVella.com to get goodies, exclusive excerpts and behind-the-scenes peeks.


Wendy also writes small town contemporary romances under the name Lani Blake.

Reviews

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely loved this fabulous addition to a brilliant series. Mungo is the Nightingale's coachman and his niece is missing and Eliza is their children’s governess helping to smooth their rough edges whilst trying to help Mungo track down the people responsible for kidnapping a number of young women. Can Mungo and Eliza find them, before they set their sights on Eliza as she may very well be their next target.

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Advanced Reader Copy given by author

I am beyond thrilled to finally read Mungo’s story. Mungo is the grumpy Scotsman we all love who works for but is also friends with the Nightingales. Eliza is a lonely yet sassy lady who takes a job to help the younger Nightingales learn proper etiquette for entering society. Eliza doesn’t take Mungo’s attitude without dishing some sass back. When Mungo’s niece goes missing he will need Eliza and all the Nightingales to help fin her. A long the way they may just help each other mend fences and heal from past wounds. There is plenty of romance, humor and suspense to keep you on your toes. Let’s not forget our Crabbott Close neighbors who keep everyone entertained as well. So find a cozy spot and enjoy this wonderful book.

[Nikki Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I laughed, I cried, I held my breath and I laughed some more. I am so pleased that we finally get to discover more about Mungo and his past, a man so integral to the Nightingales. Eliza, the new governess, has a difficult past, having lost everything as a child. There are few people who can stand up to and unsettle Mungo, Eliza is one. As Eliza discovers just how different living with the Nightingales on Crabbetts Close is, especially after doing one of their games (IYKYN), she discovers how they all come together when Mungo's niece is kidnapped with her maid, and just how special the family is. As more revelations about Mungo and Eliza come to light and Eliza finds herself in danger, Mungo realises that he can't hide from his feelings and hopes that he isn't too late.

I love Wendy's books and how she creates characters that you find yourself invested in, characters that you want to know more about and storylines that leave you unable to stop reading. I love how she also brings in characters from other series,.especially the Sinclairs and Ravens, as it helps to showcase this wonderful world that she has created, a place where I wish I could personally meet these characters that I adore. Thank you Wendy for another masterpiece and I can't wait for your next book.

[Lilpep · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love, love the Notorious Nightingales! Finally, Mungo Fraser gets his own story. Fiercely loyal and obsessively protective of the Nightingale family, the taciturn Scot meets his match when Eliza Downing is hired to prepare the daughters of the house for their launch into society. The two immediately square off, neither trusting the other. When Mungo's niece is kidnapped Eliza insists upon joining the efforts to free her, placing them in forced proximity.  Despite each often antagonizing the other, warmer feelings develop that neither wants to admit.


This book was a joy! We get a look at Mungo's complicated family history and the events that shaped the man he is today. It is especially intriguing that it appears Mungo is similarly “gifted” as the Nightingale family. Eliza is such a wonderful influence, softened his rough edges but not trying to change him fundamentally. It is always a pleasure to visit Cabbett Cross and all the quirky characters in addition to various Nightingales.  The story unfolds at a brisk pace and it is hard to put down even when your eyelids are drooping! One of the best yet. I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy from the author and am happy to volunteer my opinions. 

[Marilyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story with a grumpy hero, and a governess heroine with a secret.

There are so many interesting, quirky secondary characters throughout the story, a fun village where everyone knows everyone else's business, and a Crabbett Corners event that was funny and odd at the same time.

The chemistry between Mungo and Eliza was different as they tried to avoid one another, and there were several plot twists throughout the story.

I received this book as an ARC and these are my opinions.

[KAREN MARTIN · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful story

This is the 6th book in the series and I was happy to see that Mungo had his story. We met Mungo in the previous books but I didnt think he would be a character that would receive a story until the hint in book five with the arrival of Elza the governess. Both were broken in their own way and needed one another though they fought valiantly against it. There is a mystery and intrigue that pulls you in to the story. There is always a villain of sorts and I love how the family and friends come together for a happy ending. We see lots of the Nightengales and the friends in their neighborhood. This author has a way of drawing you in and loving her characters, it always makes me sad when the story ends. You gain feelings for all her characters and are always thrilled when you know another book is coming out. Do yourself a favor and read all her books and series, she never disappoints. Enjoy!

[Lori Wallin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I recently finished reading the book featuring Mungo and Eliza, and I wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed it. The story was exciting from the very first chapter and kept me engaged all the way through to the end. In particular, the chemistry and sparks between Mungo and Eliza were incredibly entertaining to read.


"I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and have chosen to review it." 

[Theresa M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent adventure!

This story is such an incredible addition to the Nightingale saga. It’s wonderful to keep meeting the previous main characters of this series. I loved every minute of reading it— managed that in a Saturday. Continuation of great character development. Beautiful book. Loved the reappearance of Wolf Sinclair.

[Terry A Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great book

Like all the love stories in this series, this one is m
No

Excellent characterization! Engaging plot and all the good feels I love in this authors books. Loved the romance between Eliza and Mungo! And I love the returning characters from the previous books too! Highly recommend this read!

[Angelique Cunningham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Nightengale family and their stories!

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

The romance felt like a secondary plot, and there just wasn’t enough time spent on the MMC/FMC together

[Sheila Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful book

I love the Notorious Nightingale series and can’t wait for the next in the series to come out!
If you love stories involving clairvoyance, intrigue and love you’ll like these books

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mungo and Eliza are a great addition to Crabbett Close and as always it was awesome touching in with so many past characters. Since we have seen so much of Mungo on padt books, I think my favorite part of this story was getting to know what Mungo is like inside.

[Sandra J · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great addition to a wonderful series

I nearly cried when the Raven/Sinclair series ended… but then came the Nightingales to fill the void. This series is fun with engaging characters and a good mystery to solve in each book. Mungo, of course needed his story told and it was worth the wait. We learn so much about his enigmatic past and what turned him into a grump. You won’t be disappointed with this one!

[June Karen Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic book from Wendy Vella. It seemed a long wait but was well worth it. Grumpy Mungo meets up with his estranged brother following the kidnapping of his niece. Add to that a new governess who evokes strange feelings in him and there’s the recipe for danger, laughter and the whole involvement if Crabbett Close and old friends Ravens and Sinclair. Gripping from start to finish, fantastic characters mingled with Wendy’s magic. A must read

[Sandy Hawkins · Rating 5 out of 5]

The his latest in the Notorious Nightingales is a hot. Funny and engaging characters make the ride a great one. Throw in a mystery and the long awaited peek into Mungo’s past and you won’t be able to put it down.

[Sandra Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story for Mungo

I love every book this author writes. The Nightingales are a delightful family. This book gives Mungo his happily ever after.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This sixth installment of Wendy Vella’s Notorious Nightingale series is everything I hoped for and more, especially since I’ve been eagerly awaiting Mungo Fraser’s story. His presence has loomed large throughout the series, and finally stepping into his world felt like returning to a long-anticipated reunion.

Mungo is a gruff yet fiercely loyal Scotsman whose protective nature often hides the depths of his heart. Though he rarely speaks of his birth family, his devotion to the Nightingales is unwavering. When his niece is kidnapped, Mungo is thrust into a perilous journey that forces him to confront long-buried secrets alongside his estranged brother.

Eliza Downing enters his life through an unexpected and dramatic encounter. Facing an assault from her employer, she’s rescued by Mungo, sparking a chain of events that soon entangles their fates. When circumstances lead Eliza to become the Nightingales new governess, their paths cross again—this time under the shadow of danger. Eliza’s courage and refusal to be intimidated challenge Mungo in ways no one ever has. The tension between them is undeniable, and watching Mungo wrestle with his growing attraction while danger circles closer kept me hooked.

The story unfolds with a perfect balance of romance, suspense, and family bonds. The Nightingales rally around Mungo in heartfelt ways, and the return of beloved characters like the Sinclairs and Ravens adds joyful chaos and nostalgia. Wendy Vella masterfully weaves love, humor, and suspense into a narrative that feels both thrilling and deeply emotional.

What I loved most was Mungo’s transformation. His journey from closed-off protector to a man willing to embrace love with Eliza felt authentic and immensely satisfying. Their love story is one of mutual respect and fiery chemistry, and it’s the perfect conclusion to his story.

I absolutely love everything Wendy Vella writes! She has an extraordinary gift for crafting characters that capture my heart from the very first page. Each of her creations, whether they are delightfully quirky, brimming with humor, or gifted with supernatural abilities, comes alive in a way that feels profoundly real. Some dive into thrilling mysteries, while others simply invite you into their vibrant, unforgettable lives. Every story feels like a joyful reunion with old friends, where the world around me disappears, and her enchanting worlds take over. Her latest installment is no exception. I closed the book with a smile, already missing the world she’s created, and I can’t wait to see what she gives us next.

I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

THE FIERCE SCOTSMAN BOOK 6 (The Notorious Nightingales)

It took me a bit longer to get into this book (2 pages instead of a couple of paragraphs) but when I did, I was hooked! Did not want to stop reading and only did so 9 or 10 hours later, when I finished reading it!

Mungo Fraser was what I think of as a background character in earlier books. Important enough to appear in all the previous books but in a more supportive role. The Fierce Scotsman changes that as he is the male lead in this one.

A tall, well built man, he was a very private person who had been given little or no personal backstory other than him having made firm friends with Bram Nightingale (patriarch of the Nightingale family) when they were young men. Bram knew Mungo was loyal and reliable. A capable and important member of the extended Nightingale family. That under his gruff and grumpy exterior is a good and kindhearted man.

In The Fierce Scotsman we learn so much more about him. Things that even his long-time friend, Bram was not aware of. We learn Mungo has a brother whose daughter goes missing whilst on a trip to London.

In need of employment, Eliza Downing is sent by the Holton Agency to 11 Crabbett Close to teach the three youngest female members of the Nightingale household how to behave and what to do when they get old enough to enter society. It is as she is walking to her new place of work, that she first encounters Mungo.

Once again Wendy Vella has crafted an excellent story with some old and some new characters. I found this book particularly easy to read (or maybe I was just enjoying it a lot). She kept the story unfolding in a way that kept my interest up.

[In my mind, I thought Mungo was older than the book cover might suggest. (If he and Bram had known each other for a long time - when both were young men. Perhaps Mungo was in his 40’s or older.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would definitely recommend it to any of the many fans of Wendy Vella’s books.]

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fierce Scotsman by Wendy Vella tells the story of Mungo, the fierce Scotsman who guarded the Nightingales, well, everyone really, who lived at Crabbett Close. He couldn’t be as grumpy as he seemed as all the children loved him. He heard a voice sometimes. This was a fact he never shared with the Nightingales, who were all clairvoyant. On this night, the voice told him to go left, so he did. He heard some noise and came upon a man assaulting a young woman. This mistreatment of women is one of the top things he abhors. So, naturally, he intervenes. He pounds the man as the young woman runs off. Eliza Downing had been employed by a family of horrible men. She was ready to move on, but, out of necessity, she told no one of the abuse. That would not go over well with Mrs. Holdton, who ran the agency through which she worked. But, her new job was as governess with the Nightingale family. She had heard rumors about them, but she was looking forward to her new job. Until she arrived at the same time the constable arrived to arrest Mungo for attacking a nobleman. She had no choice but to speak up. Thus began her time with the Nightingales.

This was an exciting story, as they usually are. Mungo has been a fixture in the entire series and all the Nightingales considered him family. He is a great character who is forced to confront both his past and his future in this novel. Eliza has had a difficult past as a criminal gang burned her house to the round to avenge actions her father had taken against them. Both her parents and he brother died in that fire and she burned herself trying to get to them. She tries to melt into the background but that is not possible with the Nightingales and so things continue to happen. She survives as does he with a new perspective on life. An engaging story focusing on friendship; family, both inherited and chosen; and love. Excellent story

I was invited to read The Fierce Scotsman by the author. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #WendyVella #TheFierceScotsman

[Laurie Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

At last, the story of my favorite Nightingale character. Mungo Fraser has always been there for the family, as protector, devoted friend, carriage driver and general helper around the house. All my favorite elements of this series are here: the clairvoyant talents of the family, the quirky and loving neighbors of Crabett Close & their games competitions, members of the Sinclair & Raven family dropping by, and the wonderful dogs and human members of the extended Nightingale family. The story begins with you meeting Mungo’s niece who is visiting from Scotland. Along the way to tea with his niece, Fenella, Mungo happens upon a young lady struggling with a man in the fog to avoid ‘a fate worse than death.’ And, as usually happens in these delightful stories Eliza shows up later as the newly hired governess to the younger Nightingales.
The action in the story revolves around Mungo’s niece being kidnapped and the romantic feelings that lurk beneath the daily friction between Mungo and Eliza. Along the way you learn more about Mungo’s background and how he ended up with his Nightingale ‘family’ and the family he left behind. And, as always delicious apricotines are consumed and if you don’t know what they are you really need to read Wendy’s delightful novels. I keep hoping she’ll write a tea treats cookbook and share the recipe. My only complaint is the story is too short and ends too soon, but I’m hoping we’ll learn more about Mungo and Eliza and all the other members of this family in future books.

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can't give this enough stars! I loved it! I've been waiting for Mungo to meet his match and Eliza was just perfect for him. The relationship Mungo has with the Nightingale family is like no other and this book hopefully shows him once and for all that he is a member of the family, not merely a servant (even though that's what he's always chosen to be). To Bram, he was a brother and to the others, he was either an older brother or uncle that had always been there to help protect them.
Eliza had made the best life she could after her parents and brother were murdered. She found that she only had herself to rely on after her uncle threw her out. After a chance meeting with Mungo saving her and then being sent to the Nightingales to help the young ones prepare for their debut in society, it seemed as though they were destined to meet. She was the perfect contrast to Mungo. I loved how she stood up to him and his gruffness. He absolutely didn't know what to make of her and the feelings she stirred in him. Loved that we got Mungo's history and got to meet his brother. the Nightingales once again worked together to save the day!
I always like to see characters from previous series and the Sinclairs and Ravens are some of my favorite characters. Happy to see them in Crabbets Cove. They along with the "regulars" there make this a place I wish I could visit. I'm sad this series is ending, but hope we'll get updates on this family in future series.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wendy Vella has a talent for creating quirky and amazing worlds that totally immerses the reader. In this case, Crabbett Close is the village where the story takes place, a community of really odd but lovable and loving citizens who are all up in each other’s business, but with the best of intentions. The “Fierce” Scotsman in question, is Mungo Fraser, a principled man who has taken on the roll of protector to the Nightingale family, who each have their own unusual talents. When a stranger cries out in the night, Mungo has no choice but to aid the unknown woman who is being assaulted, inadvertently making an enemy of a nobleman. Coincidentally, the woman he aided turns out to be Eliza Downing, the new governess to the Nightingale children. Mungo’s immediate attraction to Eliza promises to be a problem. When Mungo’s niece is kidnapped and his estranged brother comes to London to search for her, both Eliza’s and Mungo’s pasts threaten to destroy their future. I highly recommend this latest book in The Notorious Nightingales series, with its satisfying HEA. Each book in the series has enough background that they can be read as a standalone, however, I highly recommend the entire series as they are all wonderful! This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.

[Marisa Coulter · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fierce Scotsman was exactly what I was looking for in Mungo's story. As someone who has been watching Mungo love and support the Nightingale family in his own way for the last several books, I wanted so badly for him to get the happily ever after that he deserved. And boy does he!

One thing I really enjoyed throughout the book was that we get the opportunity to know several members of Mungo's family. Up until this point, his past and family have been behind a bit of a veil so it was great to get to know his backstory better. Similarly, it was an interesting twist to learn that Mungo ALSO has clairvoyant abilities to an extent. Which is how he is shoved in the direction of strong, determined Eliza.

Another thing that I appreciated about Mungo and Eliza's relationship was that often in historicals, the grumpy MMC is turned on his head and becomes a happy, moon-eyed person. While Mungo certainly does develop and change for the better after receiving Eliza's love and attention, she doesn't seek to completely change him. She accepts him as he is, gruff responses and all, and they fall in love with one another and their quirks.

Overall, this book was excellent, the mystery and hi-jinx were entertaining and of course we got to see our favorite Crabbett Close neighbors taking part in the customary games. This read made me so excited for the rest of the family's books!

[Jane Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Fierce Scotsman Review
I loved this book as I have loved every single one of Wendy Vella’s books. That being said I had always thought of Mungo, the protector, driver, and all-round factotum in the Nightingale household, as similar to Hagrid in looks and age so I was taken aback by the young, scrumptious depiction of Mungo on the cover of the book. It DID make it a lot easier to get into the love story of Eliza and him.
This is a wild ride for the two of them starting with Mungo saving governess Eliza from an assault by her former employer’s son. After they find out they are working together in the Nightingale household, Eliza saves Mungo from being charged with attacking the scoundrel that was trying to abuse her. But through all that, they pretty much find each other annoying and snipe a lot. But we know, of course, where this is going. Throw in a kidnapping or two, a little clairvoyance, and the Crabbett Close games, and all’s well that ends well.
As always there is excellent dialogue, evocative scene setting, the right amount of romantic tension as well as mystery. I read this in one go so my complaint was it was too short although the epilogue helps. 5 stars once again.

[Linda J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this author! Whether she's writing under Wendy Vella or Lani Blake I know I will always be entertained!

The H has been a favorite of mine in this series and I was thrilled he remained grumpy throughout most of the story. It just worked for him, but everyone knew he was a softie underneath and would do anything for the Nightingales. Of course, the h just thinks he's grumpy and they clash a lot. But slowly you saw that their feelings for each other were changing.

Nasty villains, touch of clairvoyance (I wished it had more) suspense, some violence, romance builds slowly, HEA, lovemaking outside of marriage, bedroom door midway opened, and the Lord's name used in vain several times.

The ending is very emotional (in a good way) and I hated to see this story end. If you want the extended epilogue you need to download separately and by doing so are signing up for this author's newsletter. It's not a favorite thing of mine, but I'd urge you to download it because it's a great story 6 years in the future.

I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase. I received ARC and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)

[Jill Fetch · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Mungo Fraser, supposed servant of the Nightingale family. Little is known about the large Scotsman except that he is dearly loved by his adopted family and that he is fiercely loyal to them. Eliza Downing lost her entire family in a house fire and has been fending for herself ever since. Mungo encounters her as he's walking from a lunch meeting with his niece, Frenella, who is on her way back to Scotland. Eliza is screaming as her employer accosts her. Mungo rescues her and leaves her employer badly beaten. He doesn't expect to see her again so imagine his surprise when he arrives home and discovers that she's been hired as governess for the Nightingale younger children. The usual magic and mayhem ensue as we again meet the residents of Crabbett Close until Mungo receives a message that Frenella has been kidnapped. Everyone helps with the search as we learn more about Mungo, his family, and his happy ever after. I especially like Eliza's character. Even though she has had a hard life, she has a backbone of steel and a strong moral compass. This is a must read for anyone who enjoys good writing, drama, and humour.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love a Vella tale!
Each envelops you in a hug of warmth, teasing wit (nudge nudge, poke poke)  and an endearing blanket of the overprotectiveness of family, the deep love and joy that enriches it and the madcap ways they choose to embrace it.... that has me laughing, welling up, chuckling and desperately wanting to find a closeknit community of neighbours - just as kooky, charmingly perceptive and full of fun - to make it even bigger and better every time. THE FIERCE SCOTSMAN encompasses this and more.
Mungo and Eliza's chemistry of instant attraction but 'I'm not going to admit to it' denials of witty, sassy set downs and building fascination is fun to be entangled in. So happy to see, Mungo get that happy ever after that he was too stubborn to admit he needed.
Nice addition to the series that blends the love of extended family with the strength of friendship and challenges what really matters to you, when its threatened by the dangers lurking in the shadows. Highly recommended!

~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~

[Lana Birky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mungo Fraser is a gruff, wounded Scotsman with a protective streak a mile wide & family baggage that comes crashing back into his life. Eliza Downing has learned to be a determined, sharp‑tongued governess who refuses to be intimidated by any man - especially not one large, stubborn Scotsman. The Supporting Cast was so much fun & when the Nightingales swoop in with their usual chaos & charm; it's always an absolute hoot.

When Mungo’s niece is kidnapped, he’s forced to team up with the brother he hasn’t seen in years, & with Eliza, who inserts herself into the rescue whether he likes it or not. What follows is a funny, romantic, fast‑paced adventure full of family reunions, danger, banter, and sparks flying in every direction. This was a well‑written, lively addition to the Nightingales world. Funny, heartfelt, romantic, & full of the found‑family charm Wendy Vella does so well. A delightful read from start to finish. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Joyce Riske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wendy Vella reveals Mungo's history and the forge of family and life that shaped this devoted protector. He finds his own Boudicca in the new governess, Eliza, who refuses to cow to his fierce scowls and demeanor. Avoiding each other as a tactic fails as they are confronted with Mungo's imprisonment, his niece's kidnapping, and Eliza's sudden disappearance. All of the swiftly moving action is tempered by the camaraderie of the Ravens, Sinclairs, and Nightingales whose love for family, food, and good humor pulls Mungo and Eliza into the warmth of their love. The dialogue is witty. The characters are constant, and there's always a new surprise! Who knew Mavis could play piano? You will enjoy this read.