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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

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About the author

Wendy Vella

86 books841 followers

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.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Pam  Bereznak.
1,903 reviews148 followers
March 12, 2026
This is my 46th book by Wendy Vella and I've been reading her since 2016. I do consider her a favorite and always enjoy her books. She is not very steamy in her sex scenes but her stories are always good and well written and I know I'll always get a good read.

I liked this story. I liked Mungo and Eliza and their personalities. Mungo took a bit to warm up to. They definitely had a slow burn but was a good read. I always like a bit of intrigue in a story. Wendy's books don't make the steam level in one of my FB groups but I've been reading her 10 years and just like her writing. Definitely recommend.
1,174 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
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.
Profile Image for Wendy.
327 reviews7 followers
February 28, 2026
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.
1,111 reviews5 followers
March 1, 2026
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.
85 reviews4 followers
March 5, 2026
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. 
Profile Image for Marilyn .
535 reviews12 followers
February 16, 2026
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.
503 reviews2 followers
March 4, 2026
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!
Profile Image for Wendy Tavenner.
1,343 reviews12 followers
March 17, 2026
Her Scotsman

I absolutely loved Mungo and Eliza’s story. He a fierce, grumpy and rude Scotsman. Where she is a prim, cursing and beautiful governess that will shake him to the core.
When Mungo hears a scream he charges in a saves a woman being attacked. She ultimately vanishes. When Mungo is arrested for supposedly attacking and trying to rob the mystery woman’s attacker just so happens the Nightingales new governess is the rescued woman.
When she explains to Bram and the family what really happened, they all get into the carriage to wreck havoc on the Watch.
When Mungo is released he feels unrest being by the woman who saved him. He doesn’t like the feeling but as he returns home an unexpected guest arrived whom he hasn’t seen in years.
When Mungos brother Calder steps from the carriage it is awkward silence until he says that his daughter Fenella has been missing for 3 weeks. Then the brothers along with the Nightingales must work together to bring her home.
A wonderful story with a beautiful ending.
Profile Image for Lori Wallin.
17 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 16, 2026
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." 
17 reviews
March 1, 2026
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.
5 reviews
March 1, 2026
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!




















1,136 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2026
A fine piece

Mungo is a member of the Nightingale clan and he and Eliza meet when she comes to work with the younger kiddos to get them ready for society.
As with all the stories, there are some serious issues and a problem character from some of the earlier stories shows up for a final in this story.
12 reviews
March 8, 2026
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
2 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2026
Best Books Ever!

I’ve read hundreds of books but there’s only 3 authors that have written books that I’ve loved so much that I’ve wanted the characters to be real so I could meet them! All of Wendy Vella’s books are at the top of the list. They have everything you want in a book!! The Nightingales are wonderful and I can’t wait for the next book! Please don’t ever quit writing about all of the Nightingale and Raven and Sinclairs!!! They are the best books ever!!
Profile Image for Melissa.
670 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2026
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.
14 reviews
March 4, 2026
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!
225 reviews2 followers
March 11, 2026
F7all in love with a Scotsman!

Another wonderful tale from Wendy Vella. We were all intrigued by the grumpy and formidable Mungo. Thank goodness he finally got his story. The crazy, lovable characters from all the Nightingale stories are always a delight. A MUST READ for everyone.
11 reviews
April 8, 2026
End of the series?

Boy. What a good story! This made me cry more than I laughed (in a good way), but I very much enjoyed it. Mungo's story was well worth the wait. Of course, it is better to read the others first before reading this one. Yet you can start anywhere in the series. I'd highly recommend this series.
287 reviews
March 3, 2026
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
5 reviews
March 4, 2026
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.
Profile Image for Jean.
291 reviews1 follower
March 18, 2026
This book was a 10 Star book… Awsome character, well written… great plot… just need to read it again now.
5 reviews
April 8, 2026
the entire series

Feels like I’m reading in a nook with these characters all around me being joyful and helping each other always
18 reviews
March 9, 2026
Mungo's story is here, at last. We find out what is behind that fierce Scotman's facade. He meets his match when he saves Eliza from a physical attack by her previous employer. Such a great story, well written with plenty of humor and romance.
Profile Image for Sandra Kelley.
30 reviews
March 2, 2026
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.
303 reviews3 followers
March 29, 2026
Mongo's story

It would have to be a fierce woman to take on Mongo. He's a burly old Scotsman set in his ways.
But Eliza is up to the task. She does not accept his gruff ways and lets him know it. It makes for a very interesting relationship.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. But I will say you do need to read the bonus epilogue. It really completes the book, it's the perfect ending.
Profile Image for MARIE MARUCCI.
522 reviews1 follower
March 28, 2026
LOVE revisiting the Nightingales and Crabbett Cove.

Mungo's story was very interesting. It was great to get the background on him.

We really didn't get to learn much about Eliza in the beginning, but eventually we learned what gave her her strength and determination.

The love story was slow to grow, but beautiful!
Profile Image for Fanosse23.
769 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 24, 2026
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.
24 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 19, 2026
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.]
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews