Miss Smythe and the Midnight Lord

Dazzling Debutantes #7

by C.N. Jarrett

Lord Aidan Abbott's secret mission to expose Mr. Smythe backfires spectacularly when he's caught alone with the man's daughter before all of society.In this clean historical romance, the heir to a viscountcy is determined to protect his sister, accidentally ruining a young woman while searching her father's home. Now he will need to choose between his crusade and the growing love between them.

He feels the weight of his failures ...
Lord Aidan Abbott has already failed his family once when his negligence led to his sister's scandalous marriage. Now determined to protect her from a murderer's threat, he investigates the mysterious Mr. Smythe. But when his covert search of the man's home leads to an innocent encounter with Smythe's daughter on a moonlit terrace, Aidan finds himself caught in a compromising position before a ballroom full of society's elite.

She never expected to marry a stranger ...

Miss Gwendolyn Smythe was simply seeking fresh air when a mysterious lord appeared on her terrace. Now, to save both their reputations, she must wed this enigmatic man she's never properly met. Determined to make the best of their hasty union, Gwen sets out to win her husband's heart—if only she can discover why he seems so distant and secretive.

In this tender historical romance, two souls bound by scandal must learn to trust each other. As Aidan continues his dangerous investigation while falling for his scholarly bride, he faces an impossible choice. How can he reveal his deception without destroying their fragile chance at love?

Miss Smythe and the Midnight Lord is a heartwarming tale of integrity, unexpected devotion, and love found in the most unlikely of places. Can be read as a standalone.

308 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 25, 2025

Reviews

[Lyn D Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

This seventh book in The Dazzling Debutantes series was a clean, tender historical romance. It had drama, intrigue, murder, mystery, integrity, unexpected devotion, and heartwarming love between an honorable gentleman and a spirited heroine. I highly recommend reading!

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a slight variation of the love at first sight story told in “Miss Abbott & the Suspect Lord,” but with different characters. It takes place within the same extended family who are still hunting for the same murderer. Again, it is a sweet story with a happy resolution and a cliffhanger to hold you to the next. Well done.

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

[Cindy Stone · Rating 3 out of 5]

Great story but it's the third time I've downloaded a book and found out I'd read it before under a different name for the same author. It is always the same author, Nina Jarrett, but now it's published under another name. It is something readers should be made aware of if a book has been printed before with a different title and cover. Although I received a complimentary review copy, my opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this captivating historical romance, “Miss Smythe & the Midnight Lord” you will find yourself swept into a world of intrigue, scandal, the mystery of who killed the baron, and unexpected devotion. The story masterfully intertwines the thrilling quest of Lord Aidan Abbott with a tender, heartwarming love story that unfolds against the backdrop of Regency society.

Lord Aidan Abbott, heir to a viscountcy, is driven by a fierce determination to protect his family, haunted by past failures that led to his sister’s scandalous marriage. His current mission to expose the enigmatic Mr. Smythe takes a dramatic turn when he's caught in a compromising situation with Smythe’s daughter, Miss Gwendolyn Smythe. This innocent encounter, set under the glow of moonlight on a secluded terrace, forces the pair into a hastily arranged marriage to preserve their reputations.

Gwen, a brilliant redhead often overlooked for her intellect and stature, finds herself wed to a man she scarcely knows. Yet, her resolve to win Aidan’s heart is both endearing and inspiring. What makes their love story truly enchanting is the genuine connection that blossoms from their shared interest in classical scholarship—a delightful surprise that bridges the gap between strangers and soulmates.

One of the most touching aspects of the novel is how Aidan helps Gwendolyn overcome her insecurities rooted in how others perceive her. His patience and sincerity encourage Gwen to embrace her worth, a journey beautifully mirrored by her devoted father, Mr. Smythe. Unlike many fathers depicted in similar tales, Mr. Smythe genuinely values his daughter and strives to help her recognize her true potential. This refreshing dynamic adds depth to the story, highlighting the importance of familial support alongside romantic love.

The novel’s brilliance is further accentuated by its thoughtful integration of Aristotle’s wisdom, with each chapter adorned by poignant quotations that resonate with the characters' journeys. The mystery surrounding a baron’s murder adds an exhilarating layer of suspense, challenging Aidan to navigate the treacherous waters of deception, honor, and love.

I thoroughly enjoyed this tale of integrity and unexpected devotion. The love between Aidan and Gwen is sweet, authentic, and beautifully portrayed, making their romance all the more compelling. Aidan’s journey also imparts a valuable lesson—that secrets can be detrimental, and honesty and openness are crucial for a relationship to grow and flourish. I am enjoying this series and look forward to Julius Trafford 's story because he has be intrigued.

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

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is so good! Aiden Abbott, heir to Viscount Moreland, felt guilty because instead of staying home and entertaining his younger sister, he went out carousing. While sitting at the front window, Lily saw Brendan go into the home of a widow across the street. She dozed off and when she awoke the next morning she saw him leave the widow’s home. Because of what she saw that night, Lily became Brendan’s alibi for the time of his father’s murder, thus saving him but ruining her reputation in the process. Lily and Brendan married, and she was nearly killed by a footman who was complicit in the Baron’s murder. In order to keep Lily safe, Aiden, Brendan and Julius Trafford began investigating specific suspects. One of the suspects, Frederick Smythe, was throwing a ball for his unmarried twenty-five year old daughter Gwen. Aiden and Trafford decided to attend hoping to discover whether or not Smythe was involved in the late Baron’s murder. Aiden discovered Gwen standing in the moonlight and was so captivated by her beauty that he kissed her. Of course they were caught which resulted in the two of them marrying. Things became awkward for Aiden, as his new father-in-law had yet to be cleared. What follows is a story filled with secrets, misunderstandings, misinterpretations, frustration and danger. Gwen and Aiden floundered despite real affection and romantic recitations, as they navigated their way through the first days of their marriage. Most of the characters from the previous books in the series have a role in this one, and Trafford vascillates between being the comic relief, and taking the investigative lead. Aiden and Gwen work things out, and the search is on for Trafford who went missing after sending Brendan a criptic note. The story ends with a tee-up for the next book, and although it is not a cliff hanger, it does leave you hanging.

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

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Smythe and the Midnight Lord takes up where Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord left off.

Despite his sister Lily assuring him she is happily married to Brenden Ridley, Aidan Abbot is burdened with guilt that he had left Lily home alone the night Lord Filminister was murdered, and to save an innocent man from a murder charge, she had confessed to being with him that night. Finding out that Lily has been injured by one working for the murderer, he agrees to help his brother-in-law find the villain and to work with Brenden’s friend Julius Trafford.

As part of his investigation, Aidan and Trafford “crash” the Smythe ball, where Aidan takes one look at Gwendolyn Smythe and promptly loses his heart--and his head when he encounters her alone on the balcony and takes her into a soul-searing embrace—and witnessed by guests to the ball.

Aidan has no hesitation in immediately announcing their engagement, but only later realizes that the documents he found in Gwen’s father’s study implicate Mr. Smythe in the late baron’s murder. How does he tell his bride that her father is a murderer? And how does he convince a woman who has been subject to ridicule for the very qualities that make her desirable to him that he married her for love?

And if his father-in-law’s behavior is not enough to complicate his life, Traffold goes missing.

A cliffhanger ending that leaves the reader waiting with bated breath for the third installment of the Dazzling Debutantes.

As always, Jarrett has created likeable, believable characters who are not carbon-copies of characters from the other intertwined novels in this series.

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

[Marion Löw · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this sweet and clean strangers to lovers romance novel with its added
love at first sight and marriage by scandal tropes. The well-crafted plot is exciting and layered with plenty of romance and a murder mystery that began in the previous volume. The characters are very likable, especially Aidan, who is a real cinnamon roll hero. I was very happy to meet the characters from the earlier books again, who have grown very dear to my heart over the course of the series.
Since much of the plot is connected to the previous book and its characters, I recommend reading the series in order. Beware, the story ends with a cliffhanger.

Aidan blames himself for his sister Lily being involved in a scandal and having to marry Lord Filminster, which led to her nearly being murdered. He participates in the investigation into the murder of the late Lord Filminster and attends the ball hosted by Mr. Smythe, one of the suspects. There he sees Gwen, Mr. Smythe's daughter, and immediately falls in love with her.
Gwen has always been bullied because of her height and freckles and has resigned herself to never finding a man who loves her, until she is kissed by a handsome and romantic stranger and they are caught in this compromising situation. Secretly, Aidan looks forward to marrying Gwen, even though he feels guilty because he is investigating her father, who seems to be becoming more and more guilty...

If you like compelling historical romance novels with swoonworthy cinnamon roll heroes, insecure heroines and a touch of suspense, this book is for you.

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

[Ruxi Avram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review

So, the question still remains: who killed the Baron of Filminster? The attackers still try to find the evidence in Lily's new home, and Aidan Abbot, her brother, wants to find the culprits.
In his endeavors, he falls madly in love with Gwendolyn Smythe, daughter of one of the suspects, and ruins her reputation. Their relationship is a whirlwind, they have to marry fast not to bring Gwen into the ton's gossip, all while Aidan and Julius Trafford are investigating.
Aidan Abbot is a Regency cinnamon roll, a man that falls deeply in love with a woman at first sight. The moment he discovers that she is also a scholar,he realizes that he is lost completely, and he struggles to make things go right for his wife.
This book is filled with quotations from Aristotle, Gwen 's guide in life, it seems. She is a writer that published under a man's name, a beautiful ginger haired young woman, yet she has a huge complex due to school bullying.
There are many aspects that I liked about this book: the action, the characters, the plot's development, everything is perfect!
Can't wait for the next book, to see where Julius Trafford 's adventures took him and what he has done.
I have received this book as an ARC, and I thank Booksirens and C.N.Jarrett for it! I am leaving this review voluntarily, after thoroughly enjoying this book!

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another very enjoyable story in the Reluctant Reckonings series. I'm still trying to work out how a book that ends on a cliff hanger manages to be complete and satisfying in itself, except of course that the central story is Aidan and Gwen's relationship, not the 'who done it'. Overall I found it to be quite a sweet and gentle tale, despite the horrid emotional bullying from other girls that led to Gwen's lack of confidence and self esteem, which results in some truly emotional scenes. In addition, C N Jarrett continues to underlay her work with specific social attitudes of the time, which adds a lot to her work for me.

I've only given it 4 stars because I didn't think it was quite as strong a story as her other work, although the bar is high. Also I want to point out that the heir to a viscount or a baron never has (or had in regency times) a courtesy title except for 'The Honourable' and is addressed as 'Mr', not 'Lord' or his wife as 'Lady'. I noticed this in 'Miss Abbott and the Suspect Lord', but of course Aidan wasn't the main character. Maybe I'm just being picky, but it's a surprising mistake given that the author clearly does a lot of research.

I was lucky enough to receive a free advance review copy. This review is voluntary and I am pleased to be able to support this author's work. If you like this genre, she is well worth reading.

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful story that turns out just the way the reader wants it to!
A mystery: who killed the baron? A beautiful redheaded woman, passed over for too many years due to her intellect and her height. A Viscount who takes his first look at the redhead and falls in “enchantment”, leading to love when he finds she, too, is a classical scholar! The fly in the ointment? The Viscount has reason to suspect his prospective father-in-law of murder!
The entire story is peppered with sayings of Aristotle, placed chapters appropriate for the quotation. This adds a depth to the story that one does not often find in “Regency Romances”. However, the love between our Hero and heroine is pure, and the reader is satisfied by the happy ending.
I had not read any of the preceding books in the series, and there are characters from them that appear in the book. However, the way they were presented helped me understand enough to ease them into the story, while raising interest in reading those other books to find out ‘what happened with them’. Therefore, in my opinion, this book stands alone well.
A clean story, revolving around a mystery that is not completely solved in this book, yet giving the H & h a wonderful love story with a happy ending. Very satisfying!.

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

[Margaret P Medberry · Rating 5 out of 5]

This lovely Regency romance centers on Lord Aidan Abbot's quest to uncover a murderer and a man who has also attacked his sister. In his attempts to do this, he meets the tall, willowy Gwendolyn Smythe. Gwen believes she is hopelessly unattractive because she was teased in school about her height, red hair, freckles, and her exceptional intellect. She has devoted herself to learning about the classics, and when she meets Aidan in the moonlight, quoting Romantic poetry, she allows a kiss, only to be compromised when this is seen. Aidan truly is smitten with her, but unfortunately suspects her father may be the murderer they are looking for, and he must keep that secret.

This terrific romantic setup makes for wonderful tension between two characters who yearn to love each other, but their hearts are kept apart by her assumptions and his secrets. The plot has intriguing twists and turns, and the story is filled with soaring poetry of Blake and Byron as well as lovely descriptions of moonlight terraces, candlelight balls, and glittering gowns. It provides everything one could want to distract us from our fraught modern world.

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

[Leann Arave · Rating 4 out of 5]

In this story we are still looking for a murderer. Brendan Ridley, now Baron Filminster is searching for the person that killed his father/uncle. His new wife Lily has been accosted by someone to get information from her. This story is mostly about Aiden Abbott, who is Lily‘s brother, he has joined the search to find the killer and help protect Lily. When he attends the ball and sees his.” Venus.” Gwen Smythe has come to the conclusion she will never marry, but when her father insists on throwing her another ball, the most unbelievable thing happened.
I thought this was a really sweet romance, I enjoyed each of the characters and Gwen thinking she found her happily ever after. A lot of the story was detective work, searching for a murderer. I thought there could have been more drama and suspense and yet it was a charming romance. It is part of a series that the characters overlap. I would highly recommend reading the books in order. It is not completely necessary, but I think it makes the story more intriguing. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great story in this series. Full of drama, intrigue, action, suspense, society, family, friends, mystery and lots of twists. Lord Aidan is the brother of Lily and the son of Lord Moreland. He helps his sister and brother-in-law as they look into who killed the Baron. He's to go to a ball when he sees Gwen at her father's home. All he sees is a Venus with red hair, tall and very smart, all he wants in a woman. He's there to see if he can find info on her father to see if he is a killer. A kiss seen on the terrace by other guests makes him announce their marriage. Gwen is shocked that Aidan could really want to marry her. Has lots of old characters from earlier books that are the readers friends. The happenings in the story will leave you wanting more. Plus you will meet new friends that help along with the next story and maybe who really is the killer of the Baron. Can't wait. Would strongly recommend to everyone this story and the rest of the series.

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

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a warm, clean historical romance with a familiar but well-executed marriage-of-convenience trope. The scandal that forces Aidan and Gwen together felt believable for the setting, and I appreciated how much weight honor and reputation carried in the story. Aidan’s guilt over past mistakes and his determination to protect his family made him a thoughtful hero, while Gwen’s intelligence and quiet courage gave her real depth beyond the situation she’s thrust into.

The romance unfolds slowly, with trust and affection growing alongside plenty of internal conflict. I especially enjoyed Gwen’s efforts to understand her distant husband and Aidan’s struggle between duty and honesty. The light mystery subplot adds tension without distracting from the emotional core of the story. Overall, this is a gentle, heartwarming read and if you enjoy clean historical romances and understated love stories, then I encourage you to give this one a try.

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

[Pam Watmore · Rating 3 out of 5]

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

I usually like her books but this book is too similar to the others and needs a new storyline, although the style of writing is good,I felt I had already read the book before and found it boring and a challenge to finish reading it. Lord Aidan Abbott compromises Gwen, an on the shelf spinster as he truly finds her captivating but he is in the midst of trying to find out who is threatening his sister. The book is not complete and involves reading another book to find out the ending. I find this very annoying as the author or the publisher is just trying to get you to buy the next book however in this case, it is just dragging out the story. You may not know the identity of the villain for sure but you can work out the rest of the story. Please, please find a new story line, all the characters in this and the other books are now all related to each other.

[HfbR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Gwendolyn Smythe and Aiden Abbott. Aiden is searching for information on his sister’s attacker when he’s tempted by the moonlight and his attraction to Gwen, and they share a kiss which is unfortunately interrupted by other ball guests. Aiden steps up and declares he’s just asked Gwen for her hand in marriage, but is her father the villain they seek…….

This is another well written and well researched book by the author, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. The murder story started in the first book in the Reluctant Reckonings series so many of the excellent characters have appeared in that and the Dazzling Debutantes series which are both well worth checking out. Although earlier events are summarised, I don’t really think you can read this as a stand alone, plus the murder story continues in the next book in the series which I look forward to reading 🐈‍⬛.

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

[Olivia Morris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Smythe and the Midnight Lord is a lovely book that is easy to read, yet keeps your interest in what is happening. The relationship that develops between these two is interesting and quite lovely. Lord Aiden and Gwendolyn have a lovely relationship developing, yet there is some tension there too! What is causing that tension, keeps you reading and turning the pages. After a tumultuous year in the Lord's li8fe, he finds hinself in yet another strange circumstance, is the woman his has fallen in love with the daughter of a murderer? How can this new relationship survive all the questions going through his mind. Does his new wife know? What can the answers be. Well I suggest you read this book to find out. I'll be looking for the next book in this series to help me answer a few questions for myself too!

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

[Chia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks, BookSirens, for the copy!
When practical Miss Smythe takes on a post at a remote estate, she doesn’t expect her employer to be a brooding lord haunted by secrets—and possibly a curse. Midnight encounters, mysterious letters, and growing affection blur the line between reason and romance.

C.N. Jarrett’s voice is richly atmospheric, perfect for readers who love gothic undertones with their historicals. The heroine’s intelligence and compassion balance the hero’s tortured restraint beautifully. The pacing builds tension gradually, culminating in an emotional, satisfying resolution. The tone is romantic, haunting, and deeply engaging. I was able to read the (so far) entire series and I loved every book! I'll keep an eye for more ♥

Part mystery, part gothic fairytale, Miss Smythe and the Midnight Lord enchants with moody atmosphere and genuine heart.

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aidan is investigating Mr. Smythe for murder, and happens to be besotted at first sight of Gwen and compromises her with a kiss. What a boon for Gwen, who was tormented in her youth for her height and freckles. Gwen can't believe Aidan, but he's over the moon about her. He grows more in love each day, but Gwen's lack of confidence and self esteem were low. Aidan hopes Mr. Smythe is innocent for all their sakes. Some poor communication leaves Gwen questioning if everything is true and he really loves her, or was it part of his mission? So many twists and turns and we still don't know the killer??? Can Aidan win his bride back??? A very suspenseful emotional journey to enjoy. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[NelleRenn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is the second in the series Reluctant Reckoning. The series revolves around the question, who killed the Baron of Filminster? The hero has a guilt complex in that he left his sister home alone and consequently she ends up marrying the new Baron of Filminster to save him from a murder charge. Now he is on the hunt for the real killer and in the process he compromises his prime suspect’s daughter and they need to marry. He falls in love with her, but she doesn’t understand his secrecy. The heroine has been bullied due to her height and freckled complexion, so her self worth is null. She is very intelligent and well read which only captivates the hero more. I enjoyed the storyline.

[Southern Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

The chemistry between Aiden and Gwen was especially sizzling for a closed-door romance, but oh so touching in the depth of their attraction and love for each other. The fact that Aiden was able to help Gwendolyn overcome her preconceived notions of her own self-worth made my heart happy. Aiden learns a great lesson that we can all take to heart; secrets are detrimental and honesty and openness are always the best policy if a relationship is to grow and flourish. Their story comes to a satisfactory conclusion, but I can’t wait for the next book to find out what happens to the secondary character of Julius Trafford and watch as each of the romances from the previous books continue to blossom. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aidan Abbott agrees to help his new brother-in-law investigate to find the person who killed the previous Baron Filminster. When Aidan meets Gwen, who is convinced she ison the shelf, he knows he has met the woman perfect for him. The problem? Gwendolyn Smythe is the daughter of Frederick Smythe, one of the suspects in the Baron’s murder. Caught in a compromising embrace, they marry. Aidan and Gwen have feelings for each other, but what will happen when Gwen finds he is investigating her father for murder? This is an exciting story. There is mystery, suspense, betrayal, misunderstanding, and a romance that had a nice start, hit a big bump in the road, and found a wonderful ending.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's another scandal in the continuing investigation of the murder of the Baron of Filminster. The motive is a letter written by the baron to Sir Robert Peel. Baron Aidan Abbott has just returned from his grand tour and discovers his sister has been attacked by an intruder looking for the letter. Her husband, the new Baron of Filminster, accepts Aidan's help to find the attacker. Crashing a ball to get evidence on a suspect, Aidan falls for Miss Gwendolyn Smythe. Caught kissing, it's a quick marriage, but Gwen's father is still under suspicion. A rocky start for a marriage that has little to build on except love and a murder still to solve.

A clean romance.

I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Booksirens.

[Patti Whitaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a great addition to the Reluctant Reckonings series, but can defiantly be read as a standalone . I really enjoyed reading Aiden and Gwen's story. Aiden is smitten with Gwen from the start and after he ruins her reputation the couple weds. Aiden is torn between the budding feelings for his new wife and his commitment to investigate the murder of the Baron. He fears how his investigation will affect his relationship with his wife as her father is a main suspect. I think you will enjoy this story of intrigue and unexpected endings.

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

[Dominique Englebert]

Who killed to cover a scandal?
After marrying the baron she saved by providing an alibi for a murder he hadn’t committed, Lily, sister to Aidan Abbott, is assaulted by a footman. Aidan still feels guilty for abandoning his sister on this fateful night and offers his help to discover the real murderer of Baron Filminster senior. They have a list of six potential suspects. Aidan, investigating Mr. Frederick Smythe, accidentally compromises his daughter and is obliged to marry her. How can they build a good relationship when her father is the main suspect?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rayna · Rating 3 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was my least favourite of the series so far, even though I found Gwen to be somewhat relatable. Aiden’s extraordinarily intense insta-love was rather off putting and I really never want to hear “Gwen, Gwen, The Spotted Giraffe” ever again. If you’re going to have an oft-repeated insult, please at least make it somewhat clever.

That being said, I loved the recurrence of the cast from previous novels in this series and the ongoing “who dunnit?” And I am still looking forward to the next book in the series.

Thank you to the author and Booksirens for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very happy with this book about a shy spinster and a dashing Lord. You must read these books in order so that you know all the backstories; totally worth it!

Lord Aidan Abbott happens upon the tall and lovely Gwen Smythe on a balcony during a ball. The romance of the moment is captured in a sweet kiss and of course they are immediately seen by the entirety of the ton! There is a mystery to solve, family becomes stronger. Satisfying. I received the ARC of this book at no charge from the author and BookSirens, but all opinions are my own.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss S my the and the Midnight Lord is Book 2 in the Reluctant Reckoning by C N Jarrett. I really enjoyed the suspense around the romance. When Gwen and Sudan married, how do you tell you new forced wife that her father might be a murderer? I found this story to be exciting and a sweet romance. I also thought the author did a great job of making this story build from book 1. I can't wait to read book 3, Miss Gideon and the Incident. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great story. I really appreciated the romantic features of this mystery story. The suspense of finding out who killed the Baron balanced well with love at first site. I normally do not like love at first site stories, but this one worked for me. I couldn’t put this one down. I loved Aiden and Gwen. Can’t wait to finally read about Trafford in the next installment.

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

[Ami Jacobs · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a clean historical romance that had a lot of danger and intrigue in the plot! I loved the emotional journey that the two main characters went through and the satisfying ending to this story, although there was a definite cliffhanger leading to the next book on the series! There was mention of babies and of marital relations, but everything regarding that was closed door, and the only romance described was poetry said and kisses given.