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Dazzling Debutantes #6
Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord
After she proves his innocence, a marriage of convenience becomes the only way to salvage her good name. But can this unexpected union grow into genuine love?
A clean Regency mystery about a courageous young lady who risks everything to save a lord from disgrace, a reluctant groom ensnared by duty, and a deadly investigation that could cost them not only their reputations—but their lives.
She cannot remain silent ...
Miss Lily Abbott knows Lord Brendan Ridley is innocent—because she saw him enter the widow’s home at the very hour of the crime. Yet when the widow refuses to help, Lily risks her own good name to defend a man who barely recalls her existence. Her courage changes both their lives forever.
He goes from accused to engaged in less than a day ...
Lord Brendan Ridley never imagined his recent elevation to baron would be accompanied by a murder accusation. When unexpected help arrives in the form of a determined young lady willing to vouch for him, honor compels him to protect her from the ensuing scandal. Marriage is the only respectable path forward—even if their natures clash at every turn.
Thrown together by circumstance, Lily and Brendan must learn to trust each other as they seek to uncover the truth behind a deadly mystery. But as their partnership deepens, so too does the possibility that what began as a necessary arrangement might become something far more meaningful.
Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord is a heartwarming tale of integrity, unexpected devotion, and love found in the most unlikely of places. First installment in the Reluctant Reckonings series but can be read as a standalone.
A clean Regency mystery about a courageous young lady who risks everything to save a lord from disgrace, a reluctant groom ensnared by duty, and a deadly investigation that could cost them not only their reputations—but their lives.
She cannot remain silent ...
Miss Lily Abbott knows Lord Brendan Ridley is innocent—because she saw him enter the widow’s home at the very hour of the crime. Yet when the widow refuses to help, Lily risks her own good name to defend a man who barely recalls her existence. Her courage changes both their lives forever.
He goes from accused to engaged in less than a day ...
Lord Brendan Ridley never imagined his recent elevation to baron would be accompanied by a murder accusation. When unexpected help arrives in the form of a determined young lady willing to vouch for him, honor compels him to protect her from the ensuing scandal. Marriage is the only respectable path forward—even if their natures clash at every turn.
Thrown together by circumstance, Lily and Brendan must learn to trust each other as they seek to uncover the truth behind a deadly mystery. But as their partnership deepens, so too does the possibility that what began as a necessary arrangement might become something far more meaningful.
Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord is a heartwarming tale of integrity, unexpected devotion, and love found in the most unlikely of places. First installment in the Reluctant Reckonings series but can be read as a standalone.
312 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2025
239 people are currently reading
44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
August 27, 2025
When Brendan Ridley’s "father" is murdered, he becomes the prime suspect, he has the most to gain, as his heir, with motives rooted in inheritance and title. His alibi crumbles when his mistress, with whom he spent the night, refuses to confirm his innocence. Enter Lady Lily Abbott, a woman of unwavering integrity and compassion. From her townhouse, she witnesses Brendan entering and leaving a widow’s home, knowing the widow was absent. This critical observation places her in a moral quandary—should she risk her reputation to save a man she scarcely knows?
Lily’s decision to testify, despite the personal cost, speaks volumes about her character. Her honesty and bravery shine, contrasting sharply with Brendan’s initial ingratitude and suspicion. Accusing Lily of manipulating him into marriage, Brendan’s harsh words are met with her fierce independence—she refuses to be anyone’s obligation. This pivotal moment sets the tone for a relationship built on growth and genuine connection.
As they navigate their forced union, Brendan’s perspective shifts. Initially indifferent, he dismisses Lily as juvenile, influenced by the childish attire her domineering mother insists she wear. However, a dramatic transformation on their wedding day reveals a sophisticated, intelligent woman. Brendan finds himself captivated, drawn to her wit, strength, and beauty.
The story unfolds with a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and humor—murder, deceit, and a devious ex-mistress interwoven with heartfelt moments and sharp banter. It’s a tale of mistrust blossoming into passion, and two souls discovering they are meant for each other despite unlikely beginnings.
C.N. Jarrett masterfully crafts a narrative filled with well-developed characters and engaging plot twists. This romantic mystery is both captivating and heartfelt. I look forward to more in this series.
Highly recommended for fans of romantic mysteries with strong heroines, dynamic characters, and intricate plots. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily—these thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
Lily’s decision to testify, despite the personal cost, speaks volumes about her character. Her honesty and bravery shine, contrasting sharply with Brendan’s initial ingratitude and suspicion. Accusing Lily of manipulating him into marriage, Brendan’s harsh words are met with her fierce independence—she refuses to be anyone’s obligation. This pivotal moment sets the tone for a relationship built on growth and genuine connection.
As they navigate their forced union, Brendan’s perspective shifts. Initially indifferent, he dismisses Lily as juvenile, influenced by the childish attire her domineering mother insists she wear. However, a dramatic transformation on their wedding day reveals a sophisticated, intelligent woman. Brendan finds himself captivated, drawn to her wit, strength, and beauty.
The story unfolds with a perfect blend of mystery, romance, and humor—murder, deceit, and a devious ex-mistress interwoven with heartfelt moments and sharp banter. It’s a tale of mistrust blossoming into passion, and two souls discovering they are meant for each other despite unlikely beginnings.
C.N. Jarrett masterfully crafts a narrative filled with well-developed characters and engaging plot twists. This romantic mystery is both captivating and heartfelt. I look forward to more in this series.
Highly recommended for fans of romantic mysteries with strong heroines, dynamic characters, and intricate plots. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily—these thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
November 5, 2025
Does anybody like this??
Long sections of interior monologue separate each empty line of dialogue in an abysmal attempt to provide subtext, a supposedly smart female who jumps to the worst conclusions and thinks the worst of the man she's supposed to admire, modern use of "them" for one person whose gender is either known to be female or would, in that era, otherwise automatically be referred to as male...so tedious to read. And, spoiler alert if anyone cares, we're left hanging as to who the murderer is. Unlikable characters, slow pointless plot, no suspense...the list goes on to include other era-related mistakes. This author has some writing skill, but her storytelling needs major improvement.
Sorry to be so blunt, but I just can't slog through any more writing by this author.
Long sections of interior monologue separate each empty line of dialogue in an abysmal attempt to provide subtext, a supposedly smart female who jumps to the worst conclusions and thinks the worst of the man she's supposed to admire, modern use of "them" for one person whose gender is either known to be female or would, in that era, otherwise automatically be referred to as male...so tedious to read. And, spoiler alert if anyone cares, we're left hanging as to who the murderer is. Unlikable characters, slow pointless plot, no suspense...the list goes on to include other era-related mistakes. This author has some writing skill, but her storytelling needs major improvement.
Sorry to be so blunt, but I just can't slog through any more writing by this author.
September 5, 2025
An exquisitely well written historical cozy mystery! I love the layout of this book. It was interesting to read from different points of view during each chapter, capturing what the characters were doing during the timeframe. This book covered A LOT of information but it is evenly distributed.
The characters are extremely likable and enjoyable to read about. Lily is definitely my favorite character. She is determined, smart, and quite sassy. Brendan is great too. All the characters are central to the plot, making it a wonderful read!
Overall, I highly recommend this book. I cannot wait to see where this series leads.
Happy reading! 📖
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The characters are extremely likable and enjoyable to read about. Lily is definitely my favorite character. She is determined, smart, and quite sassy. Brendan is great too. All the characters are central to the plot, making it a wonderful read!
Overall, I highly recommend this book. I cannot wait to see where this series leads.
Happy reading! 📖
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 15, 2025
This was quirky story. Lily sees a misdeed and tries to correct the wrong. But in doing that she throws her life away—until the honor of a man saves her, that is. Cute story with way too much love at first sight. But very enjoyable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 28, 2025
Not sure how I read #6 in the series after the first one (lured in by a higher rating?), but Jarrett relies pretty heavily on you having read the ones in between. There were references right and left to her previous novels. The writing was better this time than the first one, though it was repetitive and had some loose ends (what really happened to Michaels' dad, for example). I liked Miss Abbott's pluck, and her handling of the initial situation surprised me. I had a hard time getting over the MMCs dalliances with widows (plural), him living in a house where people are murdered, and random characters showing up randomly. But the relationship was sweet enough.
September 9, 2025
Potential was great but the final result left far too much to be desired.
The mystery was fighting to get a good footing as the characters kept going round and round doing and repeating the same things and sometimes not doing anything at all. To the point where the mysterious element was hardly present in the story.
The love story was so rushed to the point where it almost made little sense. It needed more time to brew to be believable. It was also not very clean. For a book marked as clean romance, it almost barely was.
Towards the middle of the story the characters started acting irrationally a lot of the time. It was in a very contrary nature to how they had been at the beginning of the book. It's as though their inherent natures just changed overnight without much catalyst and time.
All this made for such a let down as the beginning of the story held so much promise. That's even why I signed up to review it. It really caught my attention and pulled me in. But then it kept loosing it's loveliness as the story continued to unfold. There was far too much repetion and not enough moving foward of the plot in a careful considered interesting way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The mystery was fighting to get a good footing as the characters kept going round and round doing and repeating the same things and sometimes not doing anything at all. To the point where the mysterious element was hardly present in the story.
The love story was so rushed to the point where it almost made little sense. It needed more time to brew to be believable. It was also not very clean. For a book marked as clean romance, it almost barely was.
Towards the middle of the story the characters started acting irrationally a lot of the time. It was in a very contrary nature to how they had been at the beginning of the book. It's as though their inherent natures just changed overnight without much catalyst and time.
All this made for such a let down as the beginning of the story held so much promise. That's even why I signed up to review it. It really caught my attention and pulled me in. But then it kept loosing it's loveliness as the story continued to unfold. There was far too much repetion and not enough moving foward of the plot in a careful considered interesting way.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 24, 2025
A reluctant debutante becomes entangled in a murder investigation in C. N. Jarrett's witty historical romance Miss Abbot and the Suspect Lord.
Lily Abbot is a young lady of the peerage who rambles fervently when faced with stressful situations. Leading the typical life of a debutante, chasing suitors and attending social events, Lily soon finds herself in a predicament that changes the trajectory of her life after witnessing an incident related to a bloody murder. She faces a crossroad: either do a noble deed or risk social ruin. The incident implicates someone unexpected, forcing Lily into an investigation she's completely unprepared for.
Mr. Brendan Ridley, heir apparent to the barony of Filminster, lives a life of lackadaisical London bliss typical of his station until the murder changes the course of his life as well. Suddenly thrust into suspicion and scandal, Brendan finds his comfortable existence upended. The collision of their worlds creates unexpected sparks.
Set in the 1820s, the narrative captures the life of the historical British peerage. Jarrett depicts the gossip, fashion, and social maneuvering that characterize aristocratic society, including arranged marriages and mutual dalliances alongside the rarer unions marked by genuine affection. The contrast between the vibrant, attractive Lily Abbot and the quiet Brendan Ridley drives the plot forward, with their opposing personalities providing both appeal and suspense.
The book's strength is Lily herself, a heroine who can't stay quiet when she should. Her nervous rambling gets her into trouble, but it's also what makes her so likable. Lily's incapacity to be quiet becomes both her greatest asset and her biggest problem, a drawback in a society where young women were supposed to be quiet and polite.
Despite appearing much younger than her twenty years, thanks to her petite frame, her mother's insistence on dressing her in bland, juvenile colors, and her chatty nature, Lily proves unexpectedly capable. Her rambling questions somehow loosen tongues, making suspects reveal more than they intended. When suspicion falls on Brendan, her bravery and this unlikely talent keep him out of prison.
Miss Abbot and the Suspect Lord is a thrilling, comedic read that explores the reluctant reckoning between two opposite worlds, offering clean historical romance readers an engaging blend of mystery and humor. I received an ARC for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
Lily Abbot is a young lady of the peerage who rambles fervently when faced with stressful situations. Leading the typical life of a debutante, chasing suitors and attending social events, Lily soon finds herself in a predicament that changes the trajectory of her life after witnessing an incident related to a bloody murder. She faces a crossroad: either do a noble deed or risk social ruin. The incident implicates someone unexpected, forcing Lily into an investigation she's completely unprepared for.
Mr. Brendan Ridley, heir apparent to the barony of Filminster, lives a life of lackadaisical London bliss typical of his station until the murder changes the course of his life as well. Suddenly thrust into suspicion and scandal, Brendan finds his comfortable existence upended. The collision of their worlds creates unexpected sparks.
Set in the 1820s, the narrative captures the life of the historical British peerage. Jarrett depicts the gossip, fashion, and social maneuvering that characterize aristocratic society, including arranged marriages and mutual dalliances alongside the rarer unions marked by genuine affection. The contrast between the vibrant, attractive Lily Abbot and the quiet Brendan Ridley drives the plot forward, with their opposing personalities providing both appeal and suspense.
The book's strength is Lily herself, a heroine who can't stay quiet when she should. Her nervous rambling gets her into trouble, but it's also what makes her so likable. Lily's incapacity to be quiet becomes both her greatest asset and her biggest problem, a drawback in a society where young women were supposed to be quiet and polite.
Despite appearing much younger than her twenty years, thanks to her petite frame, her mother's insistence on dressing her in bland, juvenile colors, and her chatty nature, Lily proves unexpectedly capable. Her rambling questions somehow loosen tongues, making suspects reveal more than they intended. When suspicion falls on Brendan, her bravery and this unlikely talent keep him out of prison.
Miss Abbot and the Suspect Lord is a thrilling, comedic read that explores the reluctant reckoning between two opposite worlds, offering clean historical romance readers an engaging blend of mystery and humor. I received an ARC for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily.
December 10, 2025
I liked seeing Brendan and Lily's story in this book after meeting them in previous books. Brendan was a rather unique character. Before he is forced into the marriage with Lily, he was in a relationship of sorts with Lady Slight, but it seems to have been more to pass the time than because he really cared about her, because he just drops her, and doesn't seem to have a bit of trouble doing it. I did like that he took his wedding vows seriously.
I found Lily a little annoying sometimes. Like when Brendan comes to propose to her after finding out she may have saved his life, she gets all offended when he says he didn't have much choice but to offer for her. What did she expect? She knew very well he hardly even knew her, much less loved her. It wasn't like she loved him either. She took the only route she could think of to save him, knowing full well what the consequences would be, then gets angry when he states them.
After they are married, she doesn't trust him an inch, and is always thinking he must be hanging out with loose widows, especially Lady Slight, and it never occurs to her that just maybe he is trying to solve his father's murder!
She walks in on Lady Slight attempting to seduce him and him wanting no part of it, and immediately jumps to the worst conclusion. This is more understandable, because it did look bad, but one of the other books, Sophie walks in and finds three prostitutes in her husband's room, and immediately realizes that he is not at all happy that they are and couldn't have sent for them himself. Lily has been suspecting her husband all this time, so of course she thinks he is happy to have Lady Slight there. I was glad she accepted his explanation when he finally had a chance to give it, but considering her previous behaviour, I am a little surprised she did.
In spite of all this, it was not a bad book, and I really enjoyed Lily's pretty epic response to Lady Slight at the end.
I received a free copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
I found Lily a little annoying sometimes. Like when Brendan comes to propose to her after finding out she may have saved his life, she gets all offended when he says he didn't have much choice but to offer for her. What did she expect? She knew very well he hardly even knew her, much less loved her. It wasn't like she loved him either. She took the only route she could think of to save him, knowing full well what the consequences would be, then gets angry when he states them.
After they are married, she doesn't trust him an inch, and is always thinking he must be hanging out with loose widows, especially Lady Slight, and it never occurs to her that just maybe he is trying to solve his father's murder!
She walks in on Lady Slight attempting to seduce him and him wanting no part of it, and immediately jumps to the worst conclusion. This is more understandable, because it did look bad, but one of the other books, Sophie walks in and finds three prostitutes in her husband's room, and immediately realizes that he is not at all happy that they are and couldn't have sent for them himself. Lily has been suspecting her husband all this time, so of course she thinks he is happy to have Lady Slight there. I was glad she accepted his explanation when he finally had a chance to give it, but considering her previous behaviour, I am a little surprised she did.
In spite of all this, it was not a bad book, and I really enjoyed Lily's pretty epic response to Lady Slight at the end.
I received a free copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.
August 26, 2025
MARRIED BY SCANDAL
I read the steamy version "Long Live The Baron" a long time ago and more recently the romance of Brendan's lover and therefore took the opportunity to refresh my memory with this sweet and clean version of his story. Like the previous installments in the "Dazzling Debutantes" series, the storyline is very well written, heart-warming and captivating with marriage by scandal and stranger to lovers tropes, romance, a touch of danger, suspense and a murder mystery. I really like the two protagonists, even if Lily's babbling got a bit too much for me at times and their whirlwind romance was a tad too fast. I was also pleased to meet all the wonderful characters from the previous books again.
The book can be read as a standalone, but I still recommend reading the series in order to get to know the backstories and secondary characters better. The story ends with a cliffhanger!
When Brendan Ridley's estranged "father" is killed, he is accused of his murder as his heir, and his mistress, with whom he spent the night of the murder, refuses to confirm his alibi and testify to his innocence.
Lily Abbott, who lives opposite and happened to see him arrive at his lover's house at the time of the crime, cannot allow an innocent man to be arrested, intervenes and provides him with a false alibi, but ruins her reputation in the process.
The only right thing for Brendan to do is to propose to the girl he barely knows and who saved his life…
Overall, a good mix of sweet romance and murder mystery that I am happy to recommend!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
I read the steamy version "Long Live The Baron" a long time ago and more recently the romance of Brendan's lover and therefore took the opportunity to refresh my memory with this sweet and clean version of his story. Like the previous installments in the "Dazzling Debutantes" series, the storyline is very well written, heart-warming and captivating with marriage by scandal and stranger to lovers tropes, romance, a touch of danger, suspense and a murder mystery. I really like the two protagonists, even if Lily's babbling got a bit too much for me at times and their whirlwind romance was a tad too fast. I was also pleased to meet all the wonderful characters from the previous books again.
The book can be read as a standalone, but I still recommend reading the series in order to get to know the backstories and secondary characters better. The story ends with a cliffhanger!
When Brendan Ridley's estranged "father" is killed, he is accused of his murder as his heir, and his mistress, with whom he spent the night of the murder, refuses to confirm his alibi and testify to his innocence.
Lily Abbott, who lives opposite and happened to see him arrive at his lover's house at the time of the crime, cannot allow an innocent man to be arrested, intervenes and provides him with a false alibi, but ruins her reputation in the process.
The only right thing for Brendan to do is to propose to the girl he barely knows and who saved his life…
Overall, a good mix of sweet romance and murder mystery that I am happy to recommend!
I received a free ARC of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and left voluntarily.
August 28, 2025
Brendan Ridley has been estranged from the man he thought was his father but turned out to be his uncle. He learned this fact prior to being kicked out of the family home at the age of twenty-one and banished to London. He has lived there ever since and prior to the coronation of the king, his uncle, the Baron makes his way to London where he is promptly killed. Unfortunately, Brendan finds his body and immediately becomes its prime suspect.
Brendan however has a solid alibi; he was with his mistress the widow. Unfortunately, said widow has no intention of standing up in court and stating as much and this leaves him exposed as a suspect in his uncle’s killing.
Luckily for him, Lady Lily Abbott who lives across the street from his mistress, witnesses Brendan’s arrival and departure from the house and being an honest, determined young lady, decides she cannot see an innocent man face the hangman’s noose so she steps up and claims that Brendan was with her on the night of the murder, thus ruining her reputation. Though initially suspicious of Lily’s motives, Brendan has no choice but to offer marriage to Lily.
The rest of the book is spent with the main characters getting to know each other while trying to solve the murder of his uncle. A sweet, clean romance that I enjoyed and can be read on its own. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
Brendan however has a solid alibi; he was with his mistress the widow. Unfortunately, said widow has no intention of standing up in court and stating as much and this leaves him exposed as a suspect in his uncle’s killing.
Luckily for him, Lady Lily Abbott who lives across the street from his mistress, witnesses Brendan’s arrival and departure from the house and being an honest, determined young lady, decides she cannot see an innocent man face the hangman’s noose so she steps up and claims that Brendan was with her on the night of the murder, thus ruining her reputation. Though initially suspicious of Lily’s motives, Brendan has no choice but to offer marriage to Lily.
The rest of the book is spent with the main characters getting to know each other while trying to solve the murder of his uncle. A sweet, clean romance that I enjoyed and can be read on its own. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.
August 13, 2025
This is the story of Brendan Ridley & Lily Abbott. Brendon has been estranged from the Baron since his twenty-first birthday when he banished him to London with the news that he was in fact his uncle and not his father. When Brendan discovers the murdered Baron who had traveled up to London for the coronation of the king, a power hungry coroner makes him the prime suspect. Lily knows where Brendon was the night of the murder, and with the threat of the noose for Brendon for killing a peer, her conscience forces her to give him an alibi by saying he spent the night with her. With her reputation in ruins and a murderer on the loose, can a forced marriage be the answer…..
This is another well written and well researched book by the author, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. We already met many of the characters involved in this story in the excellent Dazzling Debutantes series. While it’s not essential to have read that series first, I would recommend you do as not only are they also an enjoyable read, they introduce you to some characters in this book whose background stories have a bearing on this story. There are more books to follow in this series, and with an unsolved murder there are more good tales to come I hope 🐈⬛.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is another well written and well researched book by the author, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. We already met many of the characters involved in this story in the excellent Dazzling Debutantes series. While it’s not essential to have read that series first, I would recommend you do as not only are they also an enjoyable read, they introduce you to some characters in this book whose background stories have a bearing on this story. There are more books to follow in this series, and with an unsolved murder there are more good tales to come I hope 🐈⬛.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 10, 2025
Another wonderful addition to this entertaining series. Brendan Ridley walks into his London townhouse to find his father/uncle murdered. If that’s not an attention grabber I’m not sure what is. Many of the ton knew there was no love lost between the two men. And quite quickly, Brendan is the main suspect. Unfortunately, he cannot disclose where he had been during the murder to give him a just alibi.
Lilly Abbott was just about to enter her third season with no prospects for marriage She didn’t want to settle for anyone. She just wanted to find true love and happiness. When left alone, one evening while her family was all out she witnessed something through her window. The next day she knew some vital information that would help a random stranger but could ruin Her reputation.
The story has mystery, intrigue, romance and will hold your attention to the very end. I have read the other books in the series and have been quite impressed with the writing and the research of the era and each story is engaging. They do have characters that overlap but each story can be read as a standalone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Lilly Abbott was just about to enter her third season with no prospects for marriage She didn’t want to settle for anyone. She just wanted to find true love and happiness. When left alone, one evening while her family was all out she witnessed something through her window. The next day she knew some vital information that would help a random stranger but could ruin Her reputation.
The story has mystery, intrigue, romance and will hold your attention to the very end. I have read the other books in the series and have been quite impressed with the writing and the research of the era and each story is engaging. They do have characters that overlap but each story can be read as a standalone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
September 26, 2025
The Baron is Dead! Long Live the Baron!
This is supposedly Book 1 of this series, but it is really Book 6 or 7 because several characters from previous books are major players in this book, including the main hero and heroine. When Brendan's father-uncle and Annabel's biological father is murdered in his London study, Brendan is the number one suspect, according to a new hardheaded coroner. There is a witness that Brendan is innocent, a woman, but he refuses to give her name. When the actual witness confronts Brendan's paramour, and that woman refuses to come forward, young, innocent, twenty year old Lily Abbott goes to the London police and tells them he was with her all night. It will ruin her reputation among the London ton, but she believes she cannot let an innocent man be hanged for a crime he didn't commit. Lily is related to the Earl of Saunton's wife (from Book 2 of the actual series). With help from the Earl and his cousin, the Duke of Halmesbury (from Book 1 of the original series), who is married to Brendan's very pregnant sister, Annabel, will the real killer be found before Brendan and Lily are also killed? I gave this book 5 stars. I received an advanced reader's copy from Book sirens, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
This is supposedly Book 1 of this series, but it is really Book 6 or 7 because several characters from previous books are major players in this book, including the main hero and heroine. When Brendan's father-uncle and Annabel's biological father is murdered in his London study, Brendan is the number one suspect, according to a new hardheaded coroner. There is a witness that Brendan is innocent, a woman, but he refuses to give her name. When the actual witness confronts Brendan's paramour, and that woman refuses to come forward, young, innocent, twenty year old Lily Abbott goes to the London police and tells them he was with her all night. It will ruin her reputation among the London ton, but she believes she cannot let an innocent man be hanged for a crime he didn't commit. Lily is related to the Earl of Saunton's wife (from Book 2 of the actual series). With help from the Earl and his cousin, the Duke of Halmesbury (from Book 1 of the original series), who is married to Brendan's very pregnant sister, Annabel, will the real killer be found before Brendan and Lily are also killed? I gave this book 5 stars. I received an advanced reader's copy from Book sirens, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
October 8, 2025
ARC Review
Lily Abbot is almost on the shelf, a pretty, small debutante (3rd year), dressed up by her mama in frills and coloring that don't help her complexion at all. However, she is smart, brave and she reads The Art of War.
Brendan Ridley, heir or the Baron of Filminster title is a young man that loses his time running away from his father's (uncle, as it turns out) influence and control, and stumbles in the arms if a ravishing widow. Yet, when the Baron is killed is his house, Brendan Ridley stands up and does his best to find the culprit, even thou he us the first suspect in the murder of his father.
Lily and Brendan find each other through troubled circumstances, but they find love in this lovely clean romance, from the Reluctant Reckonings series. A pleasant book, with a fast paced story and with colorful characters, just as only C.N.Jarrett can write.
I have received this book as Arc via Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I enjoyed reading this book a lot, I like how the story intertwines with the other books of the series, yet one is not required to read the other books. Reading about the other characters is like meeting old friends, and that is what delights me the most! Thank you for this book!
Lily Abbot is almost on the shelf, a pretty, small debutante (3rd year), dressed up by her mama in frills and coloring that don't help her complexion at all. However, she is smart, brave and she reads The Art of War.
Brendan Ridley, heir or the Baron of Filminster title is a young man that loses his time running away from his father's (uncle, as it turns out) influence and control, and stumbles in the arms if a ravishing widow. Yet, when the Baron is killed is his house, Brendan Ridley stands up and does his best to find the culprit, even thou he us the first suspect in the murder of his father.
Lily and Brendan find each other through troubled circumstances, but they find love in this lovely clean romance, from the Reluctant Reckonings series. A pleasant book, with a fast paced story and with colorful characters, just as only C.N.Jarrett can write.
I have received this book as Arc via Booksirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I enjoyed reading this book a lot, I like how the story intertwines with the other books of the series, yet one is not required to read the other books. Reading about the other characters is like meeting old friends, and that is what delights me the most! Thank you for this book!
September 1, 2025
Ever since reading Miss Hayward and the Earl, I hoped that Sophia’s cousin, Lily Abbot would have her own book. And now she does. But what a tangle she finds herself in!
She sees Brenden Ridley enter Lady Silver’s townhouse—located across the street from her own home—and leave the next morning shortly after the lady in question arrives home.
Brenden arrives at Ridley House to discover that Josiah Ridley, Baron of Filminister, has been murdered and he, the heir, is the prime suspect. When Lady Silver refuses to give Brenden his much needed alibi, Lily steps forward, despite the damage to her reputation.
A marriage of necessity is not what either Brenden or Lily wanted but it what they have to contend with as they work with Bow Street, the Duke of Halmesbury and the Earl of Saunton, to discover who killed the baron.
The characters are well-drawn. I especially like Jarrett’s ability to create female leads who are strong women but different from each other.
This is Book One of Reluctant Reckonings series as well as Book 6 of the Dazzling Debutantes series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
She sees Brenden Ridley enter Lady Silver’s townhouse—located across the street from her own home—and leave the next morning shortly after the lady in question arrives home.
Brenden arrives at Ridley House to discover that Josiah Ridley, Baron of Filminister, has been murdered and he, the heir, is the prime suspect. When Lady Silver refuses to give Brenden his much needed alibi, Lily steps forward, despite the damage to her reputation.
A marriage of necessity is not what either Brenden or Lily wanted but it what they have to contend with as they work with Bow Street, the Duke of Halmesbury and the Earl of Saunton, to discover who killed the baron.
The characters are well-drawn. I especially like Jarrett’s ability to create female leads who are strong women but different from each other.
This is Book One of Reluctant Reckonings series as well as Book 6 of the Dazzling Debutantes series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 30, 2025
There is a lot going on in this book. We have intertwined and convoluted familial relationships, murder, scandal, ‘forced’ marriage, jealousy, manipulation, attempted abduction and a whole lot of emotion. When Brendan’s nasty uncle/father is murdered, Brendan is accused of killing him. Knowing that he is innocent, Lily provides an alibi for him, thus destroying her reputation. Brendan does the right thing and marries her, afterall, she did save him from the gallows. Now there is a need to keep Brendan and Lily safe while everyone searches for the murderer. Add to that the inappropriate actions of Lady Slight, the insecurities of a blushing bride, and the stress of being newlyweds, and you have enough conflict, angst and drama to keep the reader glued to the page. There are sweet moments sprinkled throughout the tale, and Lily’s effervescence and her use of Sun Tzu’s The Art of War is both uplifting and healing. And….best of all, the ending strongly suggest that there is more to come.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 30, 2025
Well written, full of drama, suspense, love, intrigue, mystery, villains, friends, family plus lots of twists. The characters new and from former stories are on an emotional journey to find who killed the Baron- Brendan"s father-uncle. Brandon is accused of the killing but who can can him an alibi. Lily is a young woman that is left alone that night but sees him coming and going from the house across the road. She is able to give him a real alibi but it will cost her to be ruined. Brendan offers her marriage and hopes for the best thinking that he could not marry a child. The day of the wedding Lily is dressed different so that he's not sure who she really is. Again , love ti have the characters from the other books in this series to be back- Philip and Annabel plus Sophia and Richard all trying to find out who actually killed the Baron. This story has lots of action which will keep you reading and wanting more. Would strongly recommend to everyone this book and the rest of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2025
Lilly Abbott is tiny; her mother dresses her like a doll, and she is in her third season. She also talks too much when she is nervous. But beneath all the cringey trappings is a beautiful woman who is honest, loyal, and when her brother’s friend is unjustly accused of murder, she is willing to risk her reputation to save him. Brendan Ridley stumbles on his stepfather’s deceased body and is the only suspect, and now may have to propose to the very odd Lilly.
This intriguing setup thrusts the reader headlong into a delightful story with twists and turns, mystery, and fun characters who get to discover who they truly are and what they really want. C.N. Jarrett has penned another fun page turner in her Reluctant Reckonings book series. The characters are interesting and compelling, and the development of their relationship is sufficiently swoony. The danger and mystery of who killed the elder baron sweeps the reader along toward thrills and kisses. I enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This intriguing setup thrusts the reader headlong into a delightful story with twists and turns, mystery, and fun characters who get to discover who they truly are and what they really want. C.N. Jarrett has penned another fun page turner in her Reluctant Reckonings book series. The characters are interesting and compelling, and the development of their relationship is sufficiently swoony. The danger and mystery of who killed the elder baron sweeps the reader along toward thrills and kisses. I enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 6, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Lord Brendan Ridley arrives home from a visit to his lover to find the man he knows as Father has been murdered at his home and Lord Ridley cannot provide an alibi without compromising his lover's reputation. She refuses to come forward but a young woman,Miss Lily Abbott, who lives opposite the lover, has seen him arrive and leave and is incensed that he might hang for a murder he couldn't have committed and so provides him with an alibi which ruins her reputation. Lord Ridley is forced to marry her to save her reputation but can they make a go of their marriage. There murderer has not been caught and there is no motive but it is clear that Lord Ridley may also be at risk. Will they prove his innocence and find out why the murder occurred.
This is an clean regency era story and is very entertaining and I look forward to the next in the series.
Lord Brendan Ridley arrives home from a visit to his lover to find the man he knows as Father has been murdered at his home and Lord Ridley cannot provide an alibi without compromising his lover's reputation. She refuses to come forward but a young woman,Miss Lily Abbott, who lives opposite the lover, has seen him arrive and leave and is incensed that he might hang for a murder he couldn't have committed and so provides him with an alibi which ruins her reputation. Lord Ridley is forced to marry her to save her reputation but can they make a go of their marriage. There murderer has not been caught and there is no motive but it is clear that Lord Ridley may also be at risk. Will they prove his innocence and find out why the murder occurred.
This is an clean regency era story and is very entertaining and I look forward to the next in the series.
August 12, 2025
C. N. Jarrett has written a very enjoyable Regency mystery that continues the Dazzling Debutantes series, as well as begins the Reluctant Reckoning series. Brendan Ridley finds himself in a pickle when he is suspected of murdering his uncle/father the Baron. He has an alibi, but the woman won't come to his aid, so enter Lily Abbott who refuses to see an innocent man hang. Their love story unfolds slowly, as does the mystery behind the elderly baron's death. The pacing of the story was good, and the characters were interesting and engaging. I have read all of the books in this series and have looked forward to each one's release. Ms. Jarrett writes clean, romantic, and entertaining Regency books, and I'm glad to have found her books. They have given me many entertaining hours of reading pleasure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 12, 2025
I adore a book where the couple get together long before the end of the book. Most end as they get engaged or declare their love for each other. Even though they marry as strangers to avoid Lily’s ruin, the marriage takes place half way through the book, thus allowing me to enjoy two people learning to love and help each other as a married couple with all the tenderness and compassion expected in newlyweds. I was pleasantly enjoying this, when I was dismayed to have them torn apart by danger, but mostly because they kept their feelings to themselves and weren’t honest with each other. If only they’d opened their mouth, they would have been spared a lot of heartache, but I know that people are quick to hide their feelings for fear of rejection. Still it was frustrating I didn’t have more time to enjoy their wedded bliss and happiness even though it ends well. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 17, 2025
Though I read this through BookSirens, diving into Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord felt like falling into a perfect Regency embrace: clever intrigue, heartfelt courage, and romance with real stakes.
Lily Abbott is a debutante with conviction, she stands up for a man she barely knows because the truth demands it. Her voice is charmingly earnest, refreshingly bold.
Lord Brendan Ridley, newly elevated and mired in scandal, accepts a marriage of convenience not out of romance, but to protect Lily and uphold societal expectations.
The murder investigation adds narrative depth without polluting the emotional stakes. Together, Lily and Brendan must unravel truth and deception while grappling with the tension between growing love and societal expectations.
Perfect for readers who adore Regency elegance, brave heroines, and mystery-tinged romance: Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord is a clever, cozy, and emotionally rewarding introduction to the series.
Lily Abbott is a debutante with conviction, she stands up for a man she barely knows because the truth demands it. Her voice is charmingly earnest, refreshingly bold.
Lord Brendan Ridley, newly elevated and mired in scandal, accepts a marriage of convenience not out of romance, but to protect Lily and uphold societal expectations.
The murder investigation adds narrative depth without polluting the emotional stakes. Together, Lily and Brendan must unravel truth and deception while grappling with the tension between growing love and societal expectations.
Perfect for readers who adore Regency elegance, brave heroines, and mystery-tinged romance: Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord is a clever, cozy, and emotionally rewarding introduction to the series.
October 2, 2025
I've read a few books by C N Jarrett/Nina Jarrett and have enjoyed them all, so was very pleased to receive this one. It did not disappoint! A few pages in, I was delighted to realise that it involved characters from 'The Duke Wins a Bride'. There's no need to have read it - Miss Abbott is stand alone - but I find that the books are so engaging that I want to know more about the side characters and some follow up on the main ones is always welcome. I enjoyed the mix of romance and 'who done it'; the courageous heroine and honourable hero (with enough flaws to make them human); their loyal and loving friends and family members; and the author's skill in writing humour alongside serious themes. I actually read it twice. The first time quickly as I needed to know what happened; the second time more slowly to savour the detail. Very entertaining.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 18, 2025
I was intrigued by the plot outline of this book but was sadly disappointed. The book is well written with excellent descriptions of the atmosphere and times but I found that the outcome was obvious and without giving spoilers it was a bit like a teenage love story with the man characters mooning around about each other and it went on so long I just wanted to bump their heads together. I also hoped that there was a mystery to be solved and although there is a crime not much of the book was devoted to this, just to the short (mentioned lots of times) lovesick heroine. Sadly I think that the talented author let herself down with this book as it definitely wasn't a page turner.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 20, 2025
Marriage is the least of his problems
After a night spent waiting for his ‘special friend’, Brandon arrives at his town house to discover that the current baron has been murdered.
Nina, who was disconsolately reading on a window seat facing the street after being abandoned by her brother in favour of a night with his friends, has seen Brandon arriving at the house on the other side of the street and leaving many hours later. She is the only one able and willing to give him an alibi and save him from an imprisonment, thereby ruining her reputation. He offers for her but in such an insulting manner that she refuses. What now?
I love this new series with many of the protagonists of the Dazzling Debutantes Series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
After a night spent waiting for his ‘special friend’, Brandon arrives at his town house to discover that the current baron has been murdered.
Nina, who was disconsolately reading on a window seat facing the street after being abandoned by her brother in favour of a night with his friends, has seen Brandon arriving at the house on the other side of the street and leaving many hours later. She is the only one able and willing to give him an alibi and save him from an imprisonment, thereby ruining her reputation. He offers for her but in such an insulting manner that she refuses. What now?
I love this new series with many of the protagonists of the Dazzling Debutantes Series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 28, 2025
This book is a very good mix of mystery and romance. Brendon is accused of murder and Lily knows that he is innocent. In order to prove him innocent she must give him and alibi for the time of the murder and in return damages her own reputation. Brendon insists that they marry so he can help repair her reputation. The couple lean about each other as the story progresses and they team up to find the real murderer. I highly recommend this story as it has something for everyone: murder; forced marriage; mystery and happily ever after. I look forward to more stories in this series and answers to some questions that still linger.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 6, 2025
Loving Lady Lilac is Book 2 in the Dowager Garden by Sarah Drake. I thought that this book was really unique. Eleanor and her brother, Paul, were attacked. Paul was killed while Eleanor was left with a scared face. The ton pitted her and gossips while no aristocrat thought she would marry. The Duke of Gainsbury, Elias, overlooked Eleanor's "short comings" and saw into her heart. Also, the author touched on sensitive topics such as mental illness and grief with honesty and gentleness. I found this story to be a wonderful escape into the world of Lords and Ladies. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.
August 7, 2025
Brendan frustrated me to no end. Why did he feel the need to be so honorable to his ex that threw him to the wolves when he needed her alibi??? Someone killed his father and set him up to take the fall. Lily being the innocent wasn't aware of conniving, lies, and fake news that the widow would try to wreck her happiness with. I admired Lily's courage and integrity to save a man's life by sacrificing her own to an unknown future. Can the killer be found? Can Lily and Brendan have forever?
This was a compelling read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
This was a compelling read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
August 24, 2025
Battle Tactics.
Opening chapters with quotes from Sun Tzu The Art of War emphasized that each scene was like stages of a battle. A murder mystery, tarnished debutant’s reputation and the suspense of finding a killer kept me reading on. I really enjoyed how Lily interpreted and dealt with the situation that she faced. As a central character to the murder, Brendan seemed overwhelmed with many issues. Amidst the chaos it was nice to see how this pair figured out a way forward. With a new lead in the end, perhaps the mystery will be resolved in the next novel.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Opening chapters with quotes from Sun Tzu The Art of War emphasized that each scene was like stages of a battle. A murder mystery, tarnished debutant’s reputation and the suspense of finding a killer kept me reading on. I really enjoyed how Lily interpreted and dealt with the situation that she faced. As a central character to the murder, Brendan seemed overwhelmed with many issues. Amidst the chaos it was nice to see how this pair figured out a way forward. With a new lead in the end, perhaps the mystery will be resolved in the next novel.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 25, 2025
Lord Brendan Ridley is accused of murdering his father. Only Lady Lilly Abbott comes forward to save him, but ruins her reputation. Brendan must do the right thing and offer for hand in marriage. Brendan and Lilly both wanted to marry for love. Sometimes love comes from a different direction, even if it's from a marriage of convenience. Unfortunately there is still a murderer to be found which puts Brendan and Lilly both in danger. Their families will protect their own. A sweet clean romance, entertaining to read with suspicious characters.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.
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