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Courting the Unconventional #1
An Improbable Scheme
2025 Readers' Favorite Honorable Mention in the Fiction - Mystery - Historical genre
Some secrets are worth stealing. Some hearts are harder to escape.
Lady Elsbeth Caldwell has long suspected that her stepfather is hiding something far more sinister behind his polished façade. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on an investigation that leads her to take desperate measures, including robbing a passing coach under the cover of night. Unfortunately, the coach belongs to Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott—a man with a sharp tongue, a sharper wit, and a maddening ability to remain amused in even the most scandalous circumstances.
Niles has no patience for matchmaking schemes, particularly those orchestrated by his well-meaning aunt. But when he’s introduced to the opinionated and undeniably intriguing Lady Elsbeth, he is determined to keep her as far away from his sister—and himself—as possible.
As threats begin to close in around Elsbeth, Niles is pulled deeper into her world. What begins as a reluctant association soon becomes an uneasy alliance, and then something far more a fragile, undeniable connection. When long-buried secrets come to light and the true extent of the deception surrounding Elsbeth is revealed, the two must trust each other if they hope to survive.
Because this time, it isn’t just Elsbeth’s heart at risk—it’s her life.
As the first novel in the series by author Laura Beers, An Improbable Scheme starts the Courting the Unconventional series. This is a light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. All books in this series have their own Happily-Ever-After and are best enjoyed in proper order.
Other series by Laura Beers include The Beckett Files, Regency A Promise of Love, Proper Regency Matchmakers, Regency Spies & Secrets, Gentlemen of London, Lords & Ladies of Mayfair and The Lockwood Family.
Some secrets are worth stealing. Some hearts are harder to escape.
Lady Elsbeth Caldwell has long suspected that her stepfather is hiding something far more sinister behind his polished façade. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on an investigation that leads her to take desperate measures, including robbing a passing coach under the cover of night. Unfortunately, the coach belongs to Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott—a man with a sharp tongue, a sharper wit, and a maddening ability to remain amused in even the most scandalous circumstances.
Niles has no patience for matchmaking schemes, particularly those orchestrated by his well-meaning aunt. But when he’s introduced to the opinionated and undeniably intriguing Lady Elsbeth, he is determined to keep her as far away from his sister—and himself—as possible.
As threats begin to close in around Elsbeth, Niles is pulled deeper into her world. What begins as a reluctant association soon becomes an uneasy alliance, and then something far more a fragile, undeniable connection. When long-buried secrets come to light and the true extent of the deception surrounding Elsbeth is revealed, the two must trust each other if they hope to survive.
Because this time, it isn’t just Elsbeth’s heart at risk—it’s her life.
As the first novel in the series by author Laura Beers, An Improbable Scheme starts the Courting the Unconventional series. This is a light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. All books in this series have their own Happily-Ever-After and are best enjoyed in proper order.
Other series by Laura Beers include The Beckett Files, Regency A Promise of Love, Proper Regency Matchmakers, Regency Spies & Secrets, Gentlemen of London, Lords & Ladies of Mayfair and The Lockwood Family.
300 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
About the author
Laura Beers
144 books536 followersLaura Beers is an award-winning author. She attended Brigham Young University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Management. She can't sing, doesn't dance and loves naps.
Laura lives in Utah with her husband, three kids, and her dysfunctional dog. When not writing regency romance, she loves waterskiing, hiking, and drinking Dr Pepper.
You can connect with Laura on Facebook, Instagram, or on her site at www.authorlaurabeers.com.
Laura lives in Utah with her husband, three kids, and her dysfunctional dog. When not writing regency romance, she loves waterskiing, hiking, and drinking Dr Pepper.
You can connect with Laura on Facebook, Instagram, or on her site at www.authorlaurabeers.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
June 25, 2025
This author’s books never disappoint! And this book is no exception! I loved it! Niles and Elsbeth are the stars of the show. I loved their banter, arguing, learning to trust each other and of course romance! Elsbeth thinks her new stepfather Alfred is hiding something. She is determined to find out what it is. But she doesn’t realize how dangerous that will become. And we as readers have to figure out if anyone can really be trusted in this story just as Elsbeth does. There are other characters that are great part of the story, Elsbeth’s cousin Charles, who is suspicious. And Eugenie, Niles sister, who is an absolute delight. I love how the siblings are together. This is a great clean romance with some humor, mystery and danger. I definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: One use of arse.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: One use of arse.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 11, 2025
“𝑰’𝒎 𝒔𝒂𝒚𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒉𝒂𝒑𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒔— 𝒏𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒔— 𝒊𝒕’𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒊𝒕. 𝑩𝒆𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒘𝒊𝒕𝒉 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒄𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒚𝒐𝒖, 𝒉𝒂𝒔 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒕𝒉 𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈.”
Absolutely loved this one and I’m so excited for the rest of the series. I knew right away who the next book would be about, and I seriously can’t wait.
Elsbeth is convinced her stepfather isn’t who he claims to be, so she takes matters into her own hands, by becoming an undercover highwaywoman. When she accidentally robs the wrong coach, she meets Niles. At first, they clash, but a reluctant friendship starts to form. Niles ends up helping her in her mission to uncover the truth, and while they grow closer, feelings start to build. The timing couldn’t be worse, with suspicious people all around and a difference in station that makes a future between them impossible. But when Elsbeths life seems to be at risk, Niles may have to admit to the feelings he's been denying all along, and decide if it's worth the risk.
The mystery really drove this one, and the slow burn romance made it even more engaging. Once the romance picked up, I was hooked. Now I’m counting down to Eugenie’s story, she has such fun, Elodie-like energy and I’m all in.
I rate this one 4.5, rounded up to 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy and this is my honest review.
Absolutely loved this one and I’m so excited for the rest of the series. I knew right away who the next book would be about, and I seriously can’t wait.
Elsbeth is convinced her stepfather isn’t who he claims to be, so she takes matters into her own hands, by becoming an undercover highwaywoman. When she accidentally robs the wrong coach, she meets Niles. At first, they clash, but a reluctant friendship starts to form. Niles ends up helping her in her mission to uncover the truth, and while they grow closer, feelings start to build. The timing couldn’t be worse, with suspicious people all around and a difference in station that makes a future between them impossible. But when Elsbeths life seems to be at risk, Niles may have to admit to the feelings he's been denying all along, and decide if it's worth the risk.
The mystery really drove this one, and the slow burn romance made it even more engaging. Once the romance picked up, I was hooked. Now I’m counting down to Eugenie’s story, she has such fun, Elodie-like energy and I’m all in.
I rate this one 4.5, rounded up to 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy and this is my honest review.
June 22, 2025
An Improbable Scheme
(Courting the Unconventional Book 1)
by: Laura Beers
@author_laura_beers
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚-Book Release Date: July 1, 2025!-📚
~Some secrets are worth stealing. Some hearts are harder to escape...
“Love is as essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
-An Improbable Scheme, is a delightful light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. It is a great beginning book one in the Courting the Unconventional Series! I thoroughly enjoyed the witty banter, sparks of chemistry, humor, adventure, mystery, unexpected twists and turns, and dear characters who stand and hold on to what’s important. I loved seeing characters learn and realize who will choose them over anything else, and what it’s like to truly live and change more for the better. There is such relief in joy in finding and holding on to truehappiness. This is a great story with a happy ending as well. I am looking forward to more to come in this fun series. Well worth the fun read!🙌🏻📚🩷
“Being with you, caring for you, has been worth everything.”
•Content: secrets, gun shots, poisoning, betrayal, death of a family member mentioned throughout, mild danger/violence, some drinking, language: use of the word “arse,”1 time; kisses only.
“I only care about you. I just want you.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Nothing you say will change my mind. I am
so hopelessly in love with you that I cannot imagine a future without you.”
#animprobablescheme
NEVER BE ASHAMED FOR LOVING THE WAY YOUR HART KNOWS."
#authorlaurabeers
“Strength does not mean running away from what scares you. Sometimes, it means staying and facing it.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“What matters is that you’re safe, my dear. And that you have found happiness.”
(Courting the Unconventional Book 1)
by: Laura Beers
@author_laura_beers
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚-Book Release Date: July 1, 2025!-📚
~Some secrets are worth stealing. Some hearts are harder to escape...
“Love is as essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
-An Improbable Scheme, is a delightful light-hearted, clean and wholesome romance set in the Regency era. It is a great beginning book one in the Courting the Unconventional Series! I thoroughly enjoyed the witty banter, sparks of chemistry, humor, adventure, mystery, unexpected twists and turns, and dear characters who stand and hold on to what’s important. I loved seeing characters learn and realize who will choose them over anything else, and what it’s like to truly live and change more for the better. There is such relief in joy in finding and holding on to truehappiness. This is a great story with a happy ending as well. I am looking forward to more to come in this fun series. Well worth the fun read!🙌🏻📚🩷
“Being with you, caring for you, has been worth everything.”
•Content: secrets, gun shots, poisoning, betrayal, death of a family member mentioned throughout, mild danger/violence, some drinking, language: use of the word “arse,”1 time; kisses only.
“I only care about you. I just want you.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“Nothing you say will change my mind. I am
so hopelessly in love with you that I cannot imagine a future without you.”
#animprobablescheme
NEVER BE ASHAMED FOR LOVING THE WAY YOUR HART KNOWS."
#authorlaurabeers
“Strength does not mean running away from what scares you. Sometimes, it means staying and facing it.”
#allaboutthebestreads
“What matters is that you’re safe, my dear. And that you have found happiness.”
June 30, 2025
"𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶'𝘳𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥. 𝘚𝘵𝘶𝘣𝘣𝘰𝘳𝘯. 𝘉𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘳𝘦 𝘪𝘮𝘱𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘭𝘺, 𝘐 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭 𝘺𝘰𝘶. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘩𝘪𝘥𝘥𝘦𝘯 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥."
What a wonderful start a brand new series!
This one is so captivating immediately, and so hard to put down!
Elsbeth is determined to find out what her stepfather's secrets are, even though no one else believes there's anything hidden. Until Lord Wescott comes in, (if you've read @author_laura_beers prior series, The Lockwood Family, then you'll remember him). From the beginning he believed in Elsbeth, and never left her side. This is so full of mystery, secrets, healing...all in a wonderful way. 🩷
I highly recommend this if you enjoy clean, closed-door regency romance!
*I received an e-ARC copy for review, all opinions are my own
What a wonderful start a brand new series!
This one is so captivating immediately, and so hard to put down!
Elsbeth is determined to find out what her stepfather's secrets are, even though no one else believes there's anything hidden. Until Lord Wescott comes in, (if you've read @author_laura_beers prior series, The Lockwood Family, then you'll remember him). From the beginning he believed in Elsbeth, and never left her side. This is so full of mystery, secrets, healing...all in a wonderful way. 🩷
I highly recommend this if you enjoy clean, closed-door regency romance!
*I received an e-ARC copy for review, all opinions are my own
April 27, 2026
Here's the problem, from the very beginning Elsbeth acts like a 12 year old brat. She acknowledged her father was not a good dad, was a gambler, knocked up her governess and her mother had to handle it, etc. But her mother is supposed to mourn him forever and not marry a 'childhood acquaintance'? He is too nice and locks his desk in his own office so he deserves rudeness and hatred? Even if her step dad is hiding something at this point so what. She also has outbursts and talks about things that would be considered inappropriate.
This whole story could have been better if edited and repackaged for a younger audience. Make him younger, not almost 30. Make her a tiny bit younger, just having her debut maybe. Then her immaturity might make more sense.
This whole story could have been better if edited and repackaged for a younger audience. Make him younger, not almost 30. Make her a tiny bit younger, just having her debut maybe. Then her immaturity might make more sense.
January 20, 2026
Confusing..
This book felt like it never reached the editor’s desk. Not typical for Laura. I usually love her work. The dialogue felt like it was stuck on a loop and situations felt predictable like they would from a novice author.
This book felt like it never reached the editor’s desk. Not typical for Laura. I usually love her work. The dialogue felt like it was stuck on a loop and situations felt predictable like they would from a novice author.
June 4, 2025
“I want to marry you because I found a piece of my soul in your eyes and I don’t want it back.”
Do you love a book full of family secrets, mystery, danger, witty banter, and sweet romance? This one has all of that and more!
Elsbeth and Niles have one of the best meet cutes! The banter in this book is top notch. I love that the banter isn’t just between the main characters. I enjoyed EVERY character in this story (even when they were under suspicion 😉).
Elsbeth is intelligent, feisty, and determined. Oh and maybe a little fearless. The danger and mystery she faced while trying to discover the family secrets was fantastic. I loved her quick friendship with Niles! Niles is witty, protective, and committed. I loved his determination to believe Elsbeth and help her as much as he could. He had quite the struggle with his responsibility for his sister and the family name versus his feelings. I absolutely loved his interactions with his sister and aunt, quite hilarious at times. I am so excited for Eugenie and Charles’ story!!
A few more quotes:
“You have brought me to life in ways I didn’t realize I needed. You’ve reminded me there’s more to living than managing accounts and fulfilling duties. I can’t stop thinking about you.”
“You can pretend you don’t need or want love, Niles, but love is as essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
Do you love a book full of family secrets, mystery, danger, witty banter, and sweet romance? This one has all of that and more!
Elsbeth and Niles have one of the best meet cutes! The banter in this book is top notch. I love that the banter isn’t just between the main characters. I enjoyed EVERY character in this story (even when they were under suspicion 😉).
Elsbeth is intelligent, feisty, and determined. Oh and maybe a little fearless. The danger and mystery she faced while trying to discover the family secrets was fantastic. I loved her quick friendship with Niles! Niles is witty, protective, and committed. I loved his determination to believe Elsbeth and help her as much as he could. He had quite the struggle with his responsibility for his sister and the family name versus his feelings. I absolutely loved his interactions with his sister and aunt, quite hilarious at times. I am so excited for Eugenie and Charles’ story!!
A few more quotes:
“You have brought me to life in ways I didn’t realize I needed. You’ve reminded me there’s more to living than managing accounts and fulfilling duties. I can’t stop thinking about you.”
“You can pretend you don’t need or want love, Niles, but love is as essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
This ARC was provided by the author. I was not required to give a positive review, rating and opinions are my own.
Read
June 29, 2025Elsbeth Caldwell is positive that her stepfather is hiding something nefarious and she is determined to find out what it is. The way in which she goes about trying to discover his secrets is very unique and leads to a meeting of the eligible Lord Niles Westcott that neither are likely to forget.
This enemies to more story has great things for you to enjoy:
Regency period
dual POV
humor
mystery
danger
family
exciting rescue
This is the beginning of the Courting the Unconventional series, and I am excited to read the books that will follow. I’m always happy to recommend Ms. Beers’s books to readers, knowing that the stories are interesting and the romance storyline can be enjoyed by readers young and mature alike.
Funny quote: “Quite frankly, she loathed everything about him. His clothing. His face. She loathed it all.”
I received this complimentary copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This enemies to more story has great things for you to enjoy:
Regency period
dual POV
humor
mystery
danger
family
exciting rescue
This is the beginning of the Courting the Unconventional series, and I am excited to read the books that will follow. I’m always happy to recommend Ms. Beers’s books to readers, knowing that the stories are interesting and the romance storyline can be enjoyed by readers young and mature alike.
Funny quote: “Quite frankly, she loathed everything about him. His clothing. His face. She loathed it all.”
I received this complimentary copy of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
May 17, 2026
I was hooked after the opening chapter. But it went downhill fast. The main female character was so annoying and acted like an absolute child. Nothing made sense in the first few chapters. Why don’t the two main characters like each other? There wasn’t any substantial reason that made sense. I just couldn’t get on board with this one to finish it.
October 21, 2025
World's STUPIDEST heroine.
Terrible plot. ENDLESSLY circular dumbassery. Returned at 95% REALLY
Terrible plot. ENDLESSLY circular dumbassery. Returned at 95% REALLY
November 30, 2025
The FMC was insufferable
January 3, 2026
did not finish. so rushed. such weird language for the time. she was snotty for no reason. just
..no
..no
January 29, 2026
Did not like the heroine. I thought she was a spoilt brat. Stopped at chapter five.
June 1, 2025
A huge thank you to Laura Beers giving me the opportunity to be apart of her launch team for this new release. Now if you are looking for a regency novel filled with adventure, comedy, romance, and everything else you can think of then this novel is the one for you. I was hooked from this novel from start to finish.
Our main focus on the novel is on a young lady named Elsbeth who has strange suspicions about her stepfather Alfred. She orginally disguises herself as a higheay woman to rob his carriage to get the key to his desk. However, she ends up stopping the wrong carriage and we are introduced to a visiting Lord Niles who views her as the most hilarious highway woman he's ever encountered.
However, despite the hilarious moments of the story there becomes the serious things. After the arrival of her cousin Charles strange assassination attempts on Elsbeth's life start happening. She starts to fear that her stepfather and her mother have something to do with it. Will she get to the bottom of this mystery or will she let this vendetta she has against her mothers new husband cloud her judgement.
I adored this novel so much. The characters were well played out. I will admit I was starting to think that almost everyone was the enemy but thankfully that ended up not being the case. Again thank you to Laura Beers for giving me the opportunity to be apart of her Launch team.
Our main focus on the novel is on a young lady named Elsbeth who has strange suspicions about her stepfather Alfred. She orginally disguises herself as a higheay woman to rob his carriage to get the key to his desk. However, she ends up stopping the wrong carriage and we are introduced to a visiting Lord Niles who views her as the most hilarious highway woman he's ever encountered.
However, despite the hilarious moments of the story there becomes the serious things. After the arrival of her cousin Charles strange assassination attempts on Elsbeth's life start happening. She starts to fear that her stepfather and her mother have something to do with it. Will she get to the bottom of this mystery or will she let this vendetta she has against her mothers new husband cloud her judgement.
I adored this novel so much. The characters were well played out. I will admit I was starting to think that almost everyone was the enemy but thankfully that ended up not being the case. Again thank you to Laura Beers for giving me the opportunity to be apart of her Launch team.
May 31, 2025
This book is full of unexpected twists and turns
Just when I thought I knew where this book was going, another twist popped up to pull me in farther. Lady Elsbeth is convinced her stepfather is hiding something, so she decides to pose as a highwayman and rob him to get information. Unfortunately, she stops the wrong carriage and ends up meeting Niles, Earl of Westcott. The next day when she meets him officially, as herself, she can’t help but wonder if he recognizes her. Later when he realizes that she is the highwaywoman he has not been able to forget, he joins forces with her to uncover the secrets. When someone starts threatening Elsbeth’s life the stakes and pressure build to discover who is at the person behind the threat. A wonderful book. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
Just when I thought I knew where this book was going, another twist popped up to pull me in farther. Lady Elsbeth is convinced her stepfather is hiding something, so she decides to pose as a highwayman and rob him to get information. Unfortunately, she stops the wrong carriage and ends up meeting Niles, Earl of Westcott. The next day when she meets him officially, as herself, she can’t help but wonder if he recognizes her. Later when he realizes that she is the highwaywoman he has not been able to forget, he joins forces with her to uncover the secrets. When someone starts threatening Elsbeth’s life the stakes and pressure build to discover who is at the person behind the threat. A wonderful book. I received an early copy and this is my honest review.
September 6, 2025
The meet cute was the most original. Loved this couple.
September 13, 2026
I was intrigued by the plot, but the story was poorly executed and the writing was choppy and not great. The characters were flat and never made rational decisions.
There were a lot of repetitive scenes/events/phrases (dimmed light in that carriage, another dinner at someone's house, "what are you saying"). There was also at least one spelling mistake ("life" instead of "live").
Several events and convos did not fit the time period. There were some crass questions and dialogue that seemed out of place.
But worst of all was how illogical it all was. None of the events were remotely realistic. It took away from the immersion and made me want to throw the book out the window.
There were a lot of repetitive scenes/events/phrases (dimmed light in that carriage, another dinner at someone's house, "what are you saying"). There was also at least one spelling mistake ("life" instead of "live").
Several events and convos did not fit the time period. There were some crass questions and dialogue that seemed out of place.
But worst of all was how illogical it all was. None of the events were remotely realistic. It took away from the immersion and made me want to throw the book out the window.
October 14, 2025
Genre: Historical Romance
Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼
Summary: Elsbeth has suspicions about her stepfather and is determined to find out what he’s hiding. In an attempt to follow him, she ends up stopping the wrong coach and meets Niles, Earl of Westcott. Thankfully she was in disguise because their paths end up crossing again and she is desperate to not be discovered.
Thoughts: I really enjoy this author generally but I felt like this one was a little too much for me. It had some relatively cringey moments and it just felt a bit unnatural.
I enjoyed the characters quite a bit and the way the relationship builds. But overall, it’s just not a love for me.
Rating: 3/5 ⭐️
Spice: 0/5 🧼
Summary: Elsbeth has suspicions about her stepfather and is determined to find out what he’s hiding. In an attempt to follow him, she ends up stopping the wrong coach and meets Niles, Earl of Westcott. Thankfully she was in disguise because their paths end up crossing again and she is desperate to not be discovered.
Thoughts: I really enjoy this author generally but I felt like this one was a little too much for me. It had some relatively cringey moments and it just felt a bit unnatural.
I enjoyed the characters quite a bit and the way the relationship builds. But overall, it’s just not a love for me.
July 1, 2025
Lady Elsbeth’s life has been severely altered due to the decisions her father made before he died. If her reputation is already damaged, is it so much of a risk to act as a highway woman in an attempt to uncover secrets she suspects her stepfather is keeping? Things get a little tricky when she accidentally holds up the carriage of Niles, the Earl of Westcott.
Niles is intrigued by the highway woman who robbed him. As he digs deeper into uncovering who she is, he is also being coerced into become friends with his aunt’s neighbor- Lady Elsbeth. A woman he does not want damaging his sister’s reputation.
I loved the push and pull between Elsbeth and Niles. Society may find them ill suited, but their reluctant friendship to more leads to an enjoyable mystery to uncover and surprises at every turn, including surprises of the heart.
If you love regency romance, strong female leads, a mystery to solve, and enemies to friends to lovers romance, this one is for you. It’s the first in a series and I can’t wait to read more of this series!
Niles is intrigued by the highway woman who robbed him. As he digs deeper into uncovering who she is, he is also being coerced into become friends with his aunt’s neighbor- Lady Elsbeth. A woman he does not want damaging his sister’s reputation.
I loved the push and pull between Elsbeth and Niles. Society may find them ill suited, but their reluctant friendship to more leads to an enjoyable mystery to uncover and surprises at every turn, including surprises of the heart.
If you love regency romance, strong female leads, a mystery to solve, and enemies to friends to lovers romance, this one is for you. It’s the first in a series and I can’t wait to read more of this series!
May 2, 2026
Not historically accurate in either the attitudes or behavior of the characters. If that matters to you. I'm getting Northanger Abbey vibes, but I haven't finished it yet.
Yep, strong Northanger Abbey vibes. It was pretty ridiculous. I'm not sure why this was an honorable mention. It was not good.
Yep, strong Northanger Abbey vibes. It was pretty ridiculous. I'm not sure why this was an honorable mention. It was not good.
July 18, 2026
Truly an Improbable Scheme!
The story was tedious with the back and forth of who’s doing what. Most of the dialogue was so contrive. Irritating! I wanted to enjoy the book but had to flip pages just to see “whodunit”…but even after seeing who the villain was (especially the Lozenges piece 🙄) it was improbable ☹️…
The story was tedious with the back and forth of who’s doing what. Most of the dialogue was so contrive. Irritating! I wanted to enjoy the book but had to flip pages just to see “whodunit”…but even after seeing who the villain was (especially the Lozenges piece 🙄) it was improbable ☹️…
March 1, 2026
Should have passed this one by
This was a silly read. Full of fluff and stuff. Very repetitious and little action. Conversations sounded contemporary not reflecting the supposed timeframe.
This was a silly read. Full of fluff and stuff. Very repetitious and little action. Conversations sounded contemporary not reflecting the supposed timeframe.
May 1, 2026
DNF by chapter 3 because the FMC (and really all the female characters) kept grating on my nerves and there were historical inaccuracies/perspectives/modern way of speech that didn’t fit with the time period.
Alas and alack.
Alas and alack.
September 19, 2026
3.4/5
This one was better than the other two novels I have read from this author. I didn’t love it. The middle was entertaining, but it was really distracting how everyone was throwing out wild accusations against each other without evidence. It was just a whole bunch of, “He’s hiding something, I just know it.” I get that this author wants to write stories with female empowerment, but it can distract from the story when that’s your goal. Niles sister in the opening scene getting all testy with him was ridiculous. The whole premise that the main female character was pretending to be a highwaymen to obtain her father‘s key is so nonsensical. Fortunately, the author moved on from that plot point relatively quickly. I just think there were enough holes in the plot to be distracting to jar me out of the story. I researched online and learned this was a highly recommended book of this author’s books, so maybe I just don’t jive with her writing style.hiding so they and not
Elsbeth and Niles meet for the first time as she is dressed as a highway man trying to steal a key from her stepfather. Niles and her have an interesting exchange in which he essentially convinces her to take his grandfather‘s watch. Later, his host introduces him to her close friends. His host is convinced that he will like the daughter, Elsbeth. At first Niles is pompous. Once he realizes that she is the highway person he is intrigued and promises to help her. She is convinced that her stepfather is hiding something, and not who he says he is. Her father was killed in a carriage crash, and his death revealed the terrible way he loved his life with gambling and mistresses. Her mother moved on from the life of a countess to marrying a merchant. It saved them from financial ruin, but did further damage their reputations. Her mother could care less as she is legitimately in love with the merchant, Alfred. They grew up in the same neighborhood, and apparently knew each other previously. Elsbeth longs for her own life in London with society and balls. She is furious about what has happened. It was an interesting perspective as Elsbeth is the shallow society, lady that is often caricatured in this genre.
A few close calls with death happen to Elsbeth which worries various characters that her life may be in danger. Once she is shot on her last night as the highway person, her maid agrees to get the key to her stepfather’s desk she has been trying to obtain. With Niles helping, she gets into the desk and finds a lot of old clippings of her father‘s death. Soon, her cousin, Charles, the new heir of her father’s estate and Earldom arrives. He thinks that Alfred is trying to kill Elsbeth and Alfred eventually reveals he has been working with her father’s estate agent and believes that the (cousin) killed her father. The agent tricked everybody, and concocted evidence to confuse everyone. He was actually the one trying to kill Elsbeth. He chose incredibly complicated and roundabout ways to do it, and was unsuccessful. Ultimately, he knocks her out and kidnaps her telling her on the whole drive he’s going to kill her so that her dowry revert back to the state, so he can embezzle the money and flee. He confesses to killing her father after her father learned that the numbers were not adding up. Niles, Alfred, and the cousin show up just in time. Elsbeth is able to get the agent to discharge the gun in the air, which allows the man to rush the carriage. Niles proposes to Elsbeth throwing caution to the wind, and willing to accept the consequences of him associating himself with Elsbeth. There is also this scene where Nile’s’ younger sister and Elsbeth cousin clearly recognize each other. His sister leader confesses that they met at a ball in London, and ended up kissing. I presume that will be a subsequent book in the series.
The last twist is that Alfred and her mother had been in love, and she got pregnant. However, her grandfather refused to allow the match given Alfred was a merchant. He worked all those years to develop his business to prove he was worthy, so when the Earl died, the reunion was inevitable. He always loved her. Elsbeth is the daughter of Alfred, but the person she thought was her father knew of the pregnancy and needed her mother’s dowry. It explains why he was cold to her.
The book ends three days later. Alfred and Elsbeth have bounded. He has agreed to give the exact amount of her dowry to Charles for his estate, so the dowry actually comes from her true father without making society suspicious by refusing her dowry. Niles shows up to drive her to the church and the kiss a lot. Happy and content with life.
This one was better than the other two novels I have read from this author. I didn’t love it. The middle was entertaining, but it was really distracting how everyone was throwing out wild accusations against each other without evidence. It was just a whole bunch of, “He’s hiding something, I just know it.” I get that this author wants to write stories with female empowerment, but it can distract from the story when that’s your goal. Niles sister in the opening scene getting all testy with him was ridiculous. The whole premise that the main female character was pretending to be a highwaymen to obtain her father‘s key is so nonsensical. Fortunately, the author moved on from that plot point relatively quickly. I just think there were enough holes in the plot to be distracting to jar me out of the story. I researched online and learned this was a highly recommended book of this author’s books, so maybe I just don’t jive with her writing style.hiding so they and not
Elsbeth and Niles meet for the first time as she is dressed as a highway man trying to steal a key from her stepfather. Niles and her have an interesting exchange in which he essentially convinces her to take his grandfather‘s watch. Later, his host introduces him to her close friends. His host is convinced that he will like the daughter, Elsbeth. At first Niles is pompous. Once he realizes that she is the highway person he is intrigued and promises to help her. She is convinced that her stepfather is hiding something, and not who he says he is. Her father was killed in a carriage crash, and his death revealed the terrible way he loved his life with gambling and mistresses. Her mother moved on from the life of a countess to marrying a merchant. It saved them from financial ruin, but did further damage their reputations. Her mother could care less as she is legitimately in love with the merchant, Alfred. They grew up in the same neighborhood, and apparently knew each other previously. Elsbeth longs for her own life in London with society and balls. She is furious about what has happened. It was an interesting perspective as Elsbeth is the shallow society, lady that is often caricatured in this genre.
A few close calls with death happen to Elsbeth which worries various characters that her life may be in danger. Once she is shot on her last night as the highway person, her maid agrees to get the key to her stepfather’s desk she has been trying to obtain. With Niles helping, she gets into the desk and finds a lot of old clippings of her father‘s death. Soon, her cousin, Charles, the new heir of her father’s estate and Earldom arrives. He thinks that Alfred is trying to kill Elsbeth and Alfred eventually reveals he has been working with her father’s estate agent and believes that the (cousin) killed her father. The agent tricked everybody, and concocted evidence to confuse everyone. He was actually the one trying to kill Elsbeth. He chose incredibly complicated and roundabout ways to do it, and was unsuccessful. Ultimately, he knocks her out and kidnaps her telling her on the whole drive he’s going to kill her so that her dowry revert back to the state, so he can embezzle the money and flee. He confesses to killing her father after her father learned that the numbers were not adding up. Niles, Alfred, and the cousin show up just in time. Elsbeth is able to get the agent to discharge the gun in the air, which allows the man to rush the carriage. Niles proposes to Elsbeth throwing caution to the wind, and willing to accept the consequences of him associating himself with Elsbeth. There is also this scene where Nile’s’ younger sister and Elsbeth cousin clearly recognize each other. His sister leader confesses that they met at a ball in London, and ended up kissing. I presume that will be a subsequent book in the series.
The last twist is that Alfred and her mother had been in love, and she got pregnant. However, her grandfather refused to allow the match given Alfred was a merchant. He worked all those years to develop his business to prove he was worthy, so when the Earl died, the reunion was inevitable. He always loved her. Elsbeth is the daughter of Alfred, but the person she thought was her father knew of the pregnancy and needed her mother’s dowry. It explains why he was cold to her.
The book ends three days later. Alfred and Elsbeth have bounded. He has agreed to give the exact amount of her dowry to Charles for his estate, so the dowry actually comes from her true father without making society suspicious by refusing her dowry. Niles shows up to drive her to the church and the kiss a lot. Happy and content with life.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
An Improbable Scheme is the first book in a new series by Laura Beers
Lady Elsbeth is suspicious of her step-father. Her mother married him too quickly after her father passed and he must be hiding something. Elsbeth plans to find out.
Lord Westcott (Niles) is traveling to visit his aunt in the countryside when his carriage is stopped by a highwaywoman.
Intent on discovering her stepfather’s secret, Elsbeth posesas a highwaywoman and plants to rob his carriage, stealing the key to his study desk. Unfortunately (or fortunately), the carriage she stops is not her stepfather’s, but Lord Westcott’s.
After this meet-awkward (this was quite entertaining to me),the two meet officially and through a series of events end up agreeing to work together to discover what Elsbeth’s stepfather is hiding.
Elsbeth is a strong and determined young woman who is struggling with her mother’s new marriage so quickly after losing her father. When she sets her mind to something, she will not give up until she is satisfied with her results.
Lord Westcott is strong, loyal, and protective and is immediately intrigued by Elsbeth. He wants nothing more than to understand and protect her, without any feelings getting involved.
Watching these two stubborn people learn to work together and support each other even when they didn’t see eye-to-eye was a treat. Elsbeth needed someone to trust and to believe in her and she got exactly that in Lord Westcott.
These enemies quickly turn to friends and finally lovers in this mystery ridden love story.
If you are a fan of romantic suspense, especially historical, then you should definitely check out this book!
Thank you to the author for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content: Potential spoiler warning starting here
Clean kisses
Toxic family member
Shooting (non-fatal, non-graphic)
Attempted murder (non-graphic)
Language: godforsaken (2x), hellbent (1x), arse (1x)
No innuendo
Lady Elsbeth is suspicious of her step-father. Her mother married him too quickly after her father passed and he must be hiding something. Elsbeth plans to find out.
Lord Westcott (Niles) is traveling to visit his aunt in the countryside when his carriage is stopped by a highwaywoman.
Intent on discovering her stepfather’s secret, Elsbeth posesas a highwaywoman and plants to rob his carriage, stealing the key to his study desk. Unfortunately (or fortunately), the carriage she stops is not her stepfather’s, but Lord Westcott’s.
After this meet-awkward (this was quite entertaining to me),the two meet officially and through a series of events end up agreeing to work together to discover what Elsbeth’s stepfather is hiding.
Elsbeth is a strong and determined young woman who is struggling with her mother’s new marriage so quickly after losing her father. When she sets her mind to something, she will not give up until she is satisfied with her results.
Lord Westcott is strong, loyal, and protective and is immediately intrigued by Elsbeth. He wants nothing more than to understand and protect her, without any feelings getting involved.
Watching these two stubborn people learn to work together and support each other even when they didn’t see eye-to-eye was a treat. Elsbeth needed someone to trust and to believe in her and she got exactly that in Lord Westcott.
These enemies quickly turn to friends and finally lovers in this mystery ridden love story.
If you are a fan of romantic suspense, especially historical, then you should definitely check out this book!
Thank you to the author for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Content: Potential spoiler warning starting here
Clean kisses
Toxic family member
Shooting (non-fatal, non-graphic)
Attempted murder (non-graphic)
Language: godforsaken (2x), hellbent (1x), arse (1x)
No innuendo
July 1, 2025
“…love is as essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
Oh, what an enjoyable, page turning read!! Laura has true talent when it comes to writing regency romances with mystery and intrigue!! From the main characters to the aunt, sister, mother, stepfather, and Shadow- the cat, each character adds so much banter, joy, and delight to this story!!
“Because I wasn’t ready for you, Elsbeth. But here you are, and somewhere, at some moment, you became my favorite coincidence.”
I am so thrilled we get Lord Westcott’s story! He is intertwined with the Lockwood Family series and the glimpse we saw of him was not enough!! Lord Niles Westcott believes marriage to be for the sake of practicality; he will never find what his parents had, and needs a wife free and clear of scandal.
Lady Elsbeth has faced scandal, abandonment of her friends, and falling from society due to her father’s gambling and frivolous behavior. After her father’s death, her mother marries a merchant and they move to a quaint village. Her stepfather is harboring secrets; and Elsbeth is determined to get to the bottom of them. Even disguising herself as a highwayman and robbing her stepfather’s carriage. Her plan goes awry and she ends up stopping the carriage of Lord Niles Westcott, who finds himself utterly fascinated with the woman robbing him at gunpoint…
“Quite frankly, she loathed everything about him. His clothing. His face. She loathed it all.”
The tension between Niles and Elsbeth is instant! The mystery and secrets being discovered will have you turning pages as fast as you can read!! The plot is plotting… 👀🕵️🤫 and the plot twists are ah-mazing!! An absolute must read!!
“You can't alter the past or foresee the future, but you can ruin the present by worrying about both.”
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
Oh, what an enjoyable, page turning read!! Laura has true talent when it comes to writing regency romances with mystery and intrigue!! From the main characters to the aunt, sister, mother, stepfather, and Shadow- the cat, each character adds so much banter, joy, and delight to this story!!
“Because I wasn’t ready for you, Elsbeth. But here you are, and somewhere, at some moment, you became my favorite coincidence.”
I am so thrilled we get Lord Westcott’s story! He is intertwined with the Lockwood Family series and the glimpse we saw of him was not enough!! Lord Niles Westcott believes marriage to be for the sake of practicality; he will never find what his parents had, and needs a wife free and clear of scandal.
Lady Elsbeth has faced scandal, abandonment of her friends, and falling from society due to her father’s gambling and frivolous behavior. After her father’s death, her mother marries a merchant and they move to a quaint village. Her stepfather is harboring secrets; and Elsbeth is determined to get to the bottom of them. Even disguising herself as a highwayman and robbing her stepfather’s carriage. Her plan goes awry and she ends up stopping the carriage of Lord Niles Westcott, who finds himself utterly fascinated with the woman robbing him at gunpoint…
“Quite frankly, she loathed everything about him. His clothing. His face. She loathed it all.”
The tension between Niles and Elsbeth is instant! The mystery and secrets being discovered will have you turning pages as fast as you can read!! The plot is plotting… 👀🕵️🤫 and the plot twists are ah-mazing!! An absolute must read!!
“You can't alter the past or foresee the future, but you can ruin the present by worrying about both.”
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy. All thoughts are my own.
July 1, 2025
What a wonderful start to this new series with one of the characters from a past series. This has all of the things that makes me enjoy a story from Laura Beers. A strong female character who is not afraid to take care of herself, a threat that needs to be exposed and a growing relationship between the two main characters.
Lady Elsbeth Caldwell has been forced to leave her life in London with all of the things she loved to move to an estate far removed from her previous life. When her father was killed the scandal attached to him made all of her friends turn away from her. Now her mother's marriage to a merchant has destroyed more of her reputation. Her mother is very happy with her new husband but Elsbeth doesn't trust him and is out to prove that he is not what he says. She needs to get the key to his study to help her prove what she believes. So she decides to masquerade as a highwayman to hold him up to steal the key. When she stops the wrong coach she robs the watch of Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott. She never expected to meet him again but he is the nephew of a woman who frequently visits their home. At her next visit she brings Niles and his sister to meet Elsbeth.
Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott— has come to visit his aunt. He wants nothing to do with her matchmaking schemes and when he first meets Elsbeth, he takes an instant dislike of her. He makes sure that she knows he wants nothing to do with her. Niles is still thinking about the woman highwayman that he met. He wants to know more about her because he is concerned about her. Soon he puts the puzzle together and realizes that Elsbeth is that woman. When someone is trying to kill Elsbeth, Niles will step in to protect her. His opinion about her begins to change as he tries to help her discover if her stepfather is the one trying to kill her. As his feelings begin to grow for her, will he also change his mind that marrying her with her reputation will hurt his sister's chances at marriage?
I enjoyed meeting that characters in this first story and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
Lady Elsbeth Caldwell has been forced to leave her life in London with all of the things she loved to move to an estate far removed from her previous life. When her father was killed the scandal attached to him made all of her friends turn away from her. Now her mother's marriage to a merchant has destroyed more of her reputation. Her mother is very happy with her new husband but Elsbeth doesn't trust him and is out to prove that he is not what he says. She needs to get the key to his study to help her prove what she believes. So she decides to masquerade as a highwayman to hold him up to steal the key. When she stops the wrong coach she robs the watch of Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott. She never expected to meet him again but he is the nephew of a woman who frequently visits their home. At her next visit she brings Niles and his sister to meet Elsbeth.
Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott— has come to visit his aunt. He wants nothing to do with her matchmaking schemes and when he first meets Elsbeth, he takes an instant dislike of her. He makes sure that she knows he wants nothing to do with her. Niles is still thinking about the woman highwayman that he met. He wants to know more about her because he is concerned about her. Soon he puts the puzzle together and realizes that Elsbeth is that woman. When someone is trying to kill Elsbeth, Niles will step in to protect her. His opinion about her begins to change as he tries to help her discover if her stepfather is the one trying to kill her. As his feelings begin to grow for her, will he also change his mind that marrying her with her reputation will hurt his sister's chances at marriage?
I enjoyed meeting that characters in this first story and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
August 5, 2025
An Improbable Scheme was a charming and sweet regency romance filled with mystery, intrigue, danger, witting banter, and moments that kept me guessing. Lady Elsbeth Caldwell is suspicious of her stepfather’s secrets. Elsbeth’s determination to figure out what her stepfather is involved in puts Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott, in Elsbeth’s path when she accidentally robs his coach in search of the truth about her stepfather. As threats on Elsbeth start occurring, Niles can’t help but get involved and try to help her solve the mystery. What starts out as curiosity and annoyance slowly starts to become more as they work together.
An Improbable Scheme was a great start to a new series by Laura Beers. I was excited to see Niles again as he was introduced in readers in A Lady’s Mishap. I adored Elsbeth – she is strong, intelligent, determined, and quite witty. I loved Niles and his dry humor, protectiveness, and gentlemanly ways. The dynamic and chemistry between Elsbeth and Niles was a delight, and I was rooting for them the whole time. Their interactions had me laughing at times and at other times their tenderness and thoughtfulness was so touching. The side characters in this story are also lovable from Eugenie, to Aunt Margaret, to Charles. If you like a good regency romance with a touch of danger and mystery, An Improbable Scheme is for you!
My favorite things:
- Both meet cutes
- The pocket watch
- Eugenie and Aunt Margaret
-Niles’ protectiveness
-The rivalry between Niles and Charles
-The first kiss
Tropes:
- Regency romance
- Protective gentleman
- Clever heroine
- Fun banter
- Secrets & schemes
- Full of mystery
- Sweet kisses
- Dual POV
Happy reading!
An Improbable Scheme was a great start to a new series by Laura Beers. I was excited to see Niles again as he was introduced in readers in A Lady’s Mishap. I adored Elsbeth – she is strong, intelligent, determined, and quite witty. I loved Niles and his dry humor, protectiveness, and gentlemanly ways. The dynamic and chemistry between Elsbeth and Niles was a delight, and I was rooting for them the whole time. Their interactions had me laughing at times and at other times their tenderness and thoughtfulness was so touching. The side characters in this story are also lovable from Eugenie, to Aunt Margaret, to Charles. If you like a good regency romance with a touch of danger and mystery, An Improbable Scheme is for you!
My favorite things:
- Both meet cutes
- The pocket watch
- Eugenie and Aunt Margaret
-Niles’ protectiveness
-The rivalry between Niles and Charles
-The first kiss
Tropes:
- Regency romance
- Protective gentleman
- Clever heroine
- Fun banter
- Secrets & schemes
- Full of mystery
- Sweet kisses
- Dual POV
Happy reading!
July 14, 2025
I'm always excited when Laura Beers starts a new series. Suspicious about her stepfather’s secret dealings, Lady Elsbeth Caldwell isn’t afraid to take matters into her own hands—even if that means robbing a coach in the middle of the night. Unfortunately for her, the coach she stops belongs to Niles Drayton, the Earl of Westcott—a man who is charming, exasperating, and entirely too amused by the situation.
When Elsbeth crashes into his world, Niles finds himself drawn into her quest for answers, despite his best efforts to keep his distance. Their partnership starts off prickly, but as the danger around them grows, so does their connection—and watching that reluctant alliance turn into something deeper is one of the best parts of the book.
Elsbeth is the kind of heroine I love to root for—strong, independent, and willing to fight for what’s right. Niles is a great match for her with his dry humor and quiet protectiveness. Together, they face down secrets, schemes, and unexpected feelings that neither of them quite knows what to do with. The author balances the mystery and romance well, without one overshadowing the other. I kept changing my mind on who the bad guy was—Elsbeth stepfather or her cousin—as their was evidence pointing to both men.
If you love a slow-burn romance with a dash of danger and a healthy dose of witty banter, An Improbable Scheme is definitely one to check out. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this new series.
I received a copy from the author but also bought an ebook for my digital library. All opinions in this review are my own.
When Elsbeth crashes into his world, Niles finds himself drawn into her quest for answers, despite his best efforts to keep his distance. Their partnership starts off prickly, but as the danger around them grows, so does their connection—and watching that reluctant alliance turn into something deeper is one of the best parts of the book.
Elsbeth is the kind of heroine I love to root for—strong, independent, and willing to fight for what’s right. Niles is a great match for her with his dry humor and quiet protectiveness. Together, they face down secrets, schemes, and unexpected feelings that neither of them quite knows what to do with. The author balances the mystery and romance well, without one overshadowing the other. I kept changing my mind on who the bad guy was—Elsbeth stepfather or her cousin—as their was evidence pointing to both men.
If you love a slow-burn romance with a dash of danger and a healthy dose of witty banter, An Improbable Scheme is definitely one to check out. I'm already looking forward to the next book in this new series.
I received a copy from the author but also bought an ebook for my digital library. All opinions in this review are my own.
July 3, 2025
“But strength does not mean running away from what scares you. Sometimes, it means staying and facing it.”
I will always jump at a chance to read Laura’s books because they are wonderful. This book, a start to a new series is no exception. It has the mystery, wit, humor and lovely characters you want in a Regency book.
“It felt like magic, they way you came into my life and made everything brighter.”
The meet-cute (both times) might be my favorite by far. I was giggling and cheering for both of them the entire time. I simply love Elsbeth and her strong sense of self, courage and determination. I loved those same things about Niles, plus a little side of grumpy cinnamon roll. Their snark and banter made the story. I loved Eugenie, his sister. She is my hero and a book lover….I can’t wait for her story.
“You have brought me to life in ways I didn’t realize I needed.”
After a disastrous first few meetings, Niles agrees to help Elsbeth solve a family mystery. Neither expects the danger, more mystery or the romance that blooms between these two. They agreed to be friends instead of annoying each other, but there is a lot going on and reputations at stake and maybe love in the air.
“You can pretend you don’t need or want love, Niles, but love is essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
I will always jump at a chance to read Laura’s books because they are wonderful. This book, a start to a new series is no exception. It has the mystery, wit, humor and lovely characters you want in a Regency book.
“It felt like magic, they way you came into my life and made everything brighter.”
The meet-cute (both times) might be my favorite by far. I was giggling and cheering for both of them the entire time. I simply love Elsbeth and her strong sense of self, courage and determination. I loved those same things about Niles, plus a little side of grumpy cinnamon roll. Their snark and banter made the story. I loved Eugenie, his sister. She is my hero and a book lover….I can’t wait for her story.
“You have brought me to life in ways I didn’t realize I needed.”
After a disastrous first few meetings, Niles agrees to help Elsbeth solve a family mystery. Neither expects the danger, more mystery or the romance that blooms between these two. They agreed to be friends instead of annoying each other, but there is a lot going on and reputations at stake and maybe love in the air.
“You can pretend you don’t need or want love, Niles, but love is essential as breathing. It doesn’t always come when it’s convenient or when you expect it, but that’s what makes it so precious.”
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