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The Inconvenient Heirs #1
The Missing Baroness
A cozy Regency mystery with a hidden heiress, slow-burn romance, and layered intrigue—perfect for fans of heroines who fight for their place in the world.
No one has seen Georgina Bligh in a decade—not since the night her uncle murdered her father and tried to eliminate her as well. Hidden away with her best friend’s family, Georgina has spent the intervening years preparing to claim her rightful place as Baroness of Elmsford. But when a near collision with her uncle on a London street shatters her anonymity, she’s forced to act before her twenty-first birthday.
Silas Bligh is desperate. Deep in debt and determined to control the Elmsford estate, he’s on the verge of having Georgina declared legally dead. But unbeknownst to him, her father’s true will disinherited Silas—and Georgina must find it to expose his lies.
With the aid of her steadfast crush, Lord Bertram Redwick, and a tight-knit group of loyal allies, Georgina embarks on a tense and dangerous search through hidden ledgers, long-buried secrets, and the upper echelons of London society. As the legal deadline looms, a new threat rises—someone willing to use extortion and violence to ensure the truth stays buried forever.
For fans of Mimi Matthews’s fiercely independent heroines, Sophie Irwin’s nuanced character arcs, and the dark intrigue of Kelly Bowen, this first book in The Inconvenient Heirs Series blends mystery, romance, and feminist grit in a compelling fight for justice and identity—set against the opulent and treacherous upper crust of Regency London.
No one has seen Georgina Bligh in a decade—not since the night her uncle murdered her father and tried to eliminate her as well. Hidden away with her best friend’s family, Georgina has spent the intervening years preparing to claim her rightful place as Baroness of Elmsford. But when a near collision with her uncle on a London street shatters her anonymity, she’s forced to act before her twenty-first birthday.
Silas Bligh is desperate. Deep in debt and determined to control the Elmsford estate, he’s on the verge of having Georgina declared legally dead. But unbeknownst to him, her father’s true will disinherited Silas—and Georgina must find it to expose his lies.
With the aid of her steadfast crush, Lord Bertram Redwick, and a tight-knit group of loyal allies, Georgina embarks on a tense and dangerous search through hidden ledgers, long-buried secrets, and the upper echelons of London society. As the legal deadline looms, a new threat rises—someone willing to use extortion and violence to ensure the truth stays buried forever.
For fans of Mimi Matthews’s fiercely independent heroines, Sophie Irwin’s nuanced character arcs, and the dark intrigue of Kelly Bowen, this first book in The Inconvenient Heirs Series blends mystery, romance, and feminist grit in a compelling fight for justice and identity—set against the opulent and treacherous upper crust of Regency London.
Unknown Binding
Published January 1, 2026
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About the author
Bianca M. Schwarz
9 books117 followers Bianca M. Schwarz is the author of The Gentleman Spy Mysteries: THE INNKEEPER’S DAUGHTER, THE GENTLEMAN’S DAUGHTER, THE MEMORY OF HER and THE SPY’S DAUGHTER.
THE MISSING BARONESS is the first book in the INCONVENIENT HEIRS series.
She was born in Germany, holds a degree in English Literature from the University Of North London and now makes her home in Los Angeles, where she lives with her husband and son.
When she is not writing, Bianca makes it her mission to recognize the beauty in this world and takes photographs of things that inspire her.
THE MISSING BARONESS is the first book in the INCONVENIENT HEIRS series.
She was born in Germany, holds a degree in English Literature from the University Of North London and now makes her home in Los Angeles, where she lives with her husband and son.
When she is not writing, Bianca makes it her mission to recognize the beauty in this world and takes photographs of things that inspire her.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
March 4, 2026
So glad that of all the books I could have chosen, I decided to request this one from NetGalley. This was so amazing and loved every single moment while reading it. Any fan of historical romance and cozy mysteries will love this.
Would recommend this to anyone.
Condolences to the author whose sister passed away. She was writing this book after the death of her sister, thinking of writing a book she knew her sister would love. So sorry you have to go through this.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
Would recommend this to anyone.
Condolences to the author whose sister passed away. She was writing this book after the death of her sister, thinking of writing a book she knew her sister would love. So sorry you have to go through this.
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
February 21, 2026
I liked the premise of The Missing Baroness. The opening started strong with Georgina, the main character, hiding from her uncle because she’s the heiress to the baronetcy he wants control over. It was a good setup and had a lot of potential.
However, the execution felt a bit mid. The pacing was slow, and at times it became repetitive. I kept waiting for the story to really take off in the way the opening suggested it would. It wasn’t bad, it just wasn't as gripping a mystery as I had hoped for.
What I loved most, though, was the author’s note. Bianca Schwartz’s love for her sister shines through so clearly, and knowing this story was written with that personal connection made it a special work that I appreciated. In some ways, that emotional context meant more to me than the novel itself.
Clearly written with love.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and author for this e-arc.
However, the execution felt a bit mid. The pacing was slow, and at times it became repetitive. I kept waiting for the story to really take off in the way the opening suggested it would. It wasn’t bad, it just wasn't as gripping a mystery as I had hoped for.
What I loved most, though, was the author’s note. Bianca Schwartz’s love for her sister shines through so clearly, and knowing this story was written with that personal connection made it a special work that I appreciated. In some ways, that emotional context meant more to me than the novel itself.
Clearly written with love.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and author for this e-arc.
February 27, 2026
Stepping into the mystery of The Missing Baroness was like being transported to a fog-drenched landscape where every shadow hides a secret! If you're a fan of historical intrigue and strong female leads, this one is definitely for you.
I’m giving this a 4 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Missing Baroness follows a high-stakes search through the aristocratic world, where a disappearance uncovers far more than just a missing person. It's a journey of social navigating, dangerous questions, and a desperate race against time.
The Good:
The atmosphere in this book is elite! The author does an incredible job of balancing the elegance of high society with the underlying tension of a criminal investigation. I loved the intricate plotting—every time I thought I had the "missing" piece figured out, a new layer of the mystery was revealed. The protagonist is sharp and determined, making it easy to root for her as she dives into the Baroness's complicated life.
The Not-So-Good:
There were a few moments in the middle where the pacing slowed down slightly as we navigated some of the more minor social etiquette details. While it helped with the world-building, I was so eager for the next clue that I found myself wanting to speed through those scenes
I’m giving this a 4 stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Missing Baroness follows a high-stakes search through the aristocratic world, where a disappearance uncovers far more than just a missing person. It's a journey of social navigating, dangerous questions, and a desperate race against time.
The Good:
The atmosphere in this book is elite! The author does an incredible job of balancing the elegance of high society with the underlying tension of a criminal investigation. I loved the intricate plotting—every time I thought I had the "missing" piece figured out, a new layer of the mystery was revealed. The protagonist is sharp and determined, making it easy to root for her as she dives into the Baroness's complicated life.
The Not-So-Good:
There were a few moments in the middle where the pacing slowed down slightly as we navigated some of the more minor social etiquette details. While it helped with the world-building, I was so eager for the next clue that I found myself wanting to speed through those scenes
February 25, 2026
The Missing Baroness is, indeed, a very cozy Regency romance. The author explains why this is so, and I have to respect her for that. We have to write what's in our hearts.
It has all the ingredients we expect from a Regency Romance, and the storyline flows well enough, and I very much devoured the first half of the book, with all the peril and fear of our main character. I did, however, feel that the second half was almost 'too nice.' Our baddie doesn't quite materialise as being quite as bad as I was expecting, which makes it feel a little bit anticlimactic after the previous build-up, while our main character does seem to forget the need to stay hidden from her nemesis, which again, is a bit of a plot hole.
It is, however, a very enjoyable read and sure to appeal to fans of the genre who are looking for a fast-paced, quick-moving romance and story which they can read fairly quickly, where a plethora of men will aid our main character.
It has all the ingredients we expect from a Regency Romance, and the storyline flows well enough, and I very much devoured the first half of the book, with all the peril and fear of our main character. I did, however, feel that the second half was almost 'too nice.' Our baddie doesn't quite materialise as being quite as bad as I was expecting, which makes it feel a little bit anticlimactic after the previous build-up, while our main character does seem to forget the need to stay hidden from her nemesis, which again, is a bit of a plot hole.
It is, however, a very enjoyable read and sure to appeal to fans of the genre who are looking for a fast-paced, quick-moving romance and story which they can read fairly quickly, where a plethora of men will aid our main character.
February 12, 2026
I went in expecting a light mystery with some romance, and that’s pretty much what I got, though I do have a few mixed feelings. The premise really pulled me in. A young woman forced into hiding after witnessing her father’s murder, coming back years later to prove she’s alive and reclaim her title, is such a strong setup. I was definitely invested in seeing how everything would unfold.
I really liked Georgina. She’s smart, careful, and determined in a quiet way. I enjoyed watching her try to stay ahead of her uncle while searching for the missing will and uncovering the truth. The mystery kept me turning the pages, even if the pacing felt a bit slow at times. It’s not fast or super intense, but more of a steady build, which will probably work well for readers who enjoy character focused stories.
The romance with Lord Bertram adds a nice touch without taking over the plot. It’s a slow burn and sweet, even if it follows some familiar patterns. I did find parts of the story a little predictable, and I wished there had been a few more surprises or stronger emotional moments.
Overall, I’d say this is a solid romance. It didn’t completely wow me, but I enjoyed reading it. I found it an easy read in one sitting. If you like historical settings, capable heroines, and a mix of intrigue and gentle romance, this is a pleasant read.
I really liked Georgina. She’s smart, careful, and determined in a quiet way. I enjoyed watching her try to stay ahead of her uncle while searching for the missing will and uncovering the truth. The mystery kept me turning the pages, even if the pacing felt a bit slow at times. It’s not fast or super intense, but more of a steady build, which will probably work well for readers who enjoy character focused stories.
The romance with Lord Bertram adds a nice touch without taking over the plot. It’s a slow burn and sweet, even if it follows some familiar patterns. I did find parts of the story a little predictable, and I wished there had been a few more surprises or stronger emotional moments.
Overall, I’d say this is a solid romance. It didn’t completely wow me, but I enjoyed reading it. I found it an easy read in one sitting. If you like historical settings, capable heroines, and a mix of intrigue and gentle romance, this is a pleasant read.
February 8, 2026
This read was everything I needed! A spirited heroine and period drama, a sizzling slow burn romance intwined in a genuinely exciting mystery, and multiple main and backup characters you want to follow alongside.
The Missing Baroness is a charming Regency mystery that weaves together romance, danger, and long-buried secrets. Georgina Bligh, a young woman forced into hiding after a shocking family betrayal, must emerge years later to uncover the truth about her father’s death and reclaim her rightful place in society. It seems that’s easier said than done. With its rich historical atmosphere and measured pacing, the story balances suspense with a gentle, slow-building romance between Georgina and Lord Redwick. This book has a great character-focused narrative that highlights courage and determination in the face of injustice. It is a very well worded and enjoyable historical mystery and Regency-era romance.
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The Missing Baroness is a charming Regency mystery that weaves together romance, danger, and long-buried secrets. Georgina Bligh, a young woman forced into hiding after a shocking family betrayal, must emerge years later to uncover the truth about her father’s death and reclaim her rightful place in society. It seems that’s easier said than done. With its rich historical atmosphere and measured pacing, the story balances suspense with a gentle, slow-building romance between Georgina and Lord Redwick. This book has a great character-focused narrative that highlights courage and determination in the face of injustice. It is a very well worded and enjoyable historical mystery and Regency-era romance.
Thank you for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
May 6, 2026
This Regency-era cozy mystery offers an engaging blend of atmosphere, character-driven storytelling, and light intrigue, making it an enjoyable and comforting read.
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its character dynamics. The relationships between Georgina and Louise are warm and believable, and the broader supporting cast—particularly Viscount Mal and Lord and Lady Swift (Louise's parents) add a strong sense of found family. These interactions bring emotional depth and make the story feel grounded despite its more thrilling, quest-like elements.
The Rosie subplot stands out as a particularly effective narrative thread, introducing a clever twist that enhances the overall mystery. Additionally, the final portion of the novel significantly raises the stakes, incorporating elements such as abduction and resolution that make for a compelling and satisfying conclusion.
However, the pacing is somewhat uneven. The first 70–80% of the book is more focused on establishing the Regency setting, social dynamics, and cozy atmosphere, which, while enjoyable, can feel slow compared to the much more eventful final act. Readers who prefer tightly plotted mysteries may find this imbalance noticeable, whereas those who enjoy immersive, ambience-driven storytelling will likely appreciate the buildup.
The Regency setting is well-realised and adds to the novel’s charm. Elements such as the ball scene, romantic subplots, and societal intrigue contribute to a tone reminiscent of classic costume dramas (think Bridgerton and Downton Abbey). The narrative includes a range of familiar but satisfying tropes, including a strong-willed baroness, feminist reimaging, romantic tension, hidden relationships, and clearly defined antagonists.
Overall, this is a cozy, character-driven mystery that prioritises atmosphere and interpersonal relationships over fast-paced plotting. While the pacing could be more balanced, the engaging characters, charming setting, and strong final act make it a worthwhile read—particularly for fans of Regency fiction and cozy mysteries.
Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to 4
The novel’s greatest strength lies in its character dynamics. The relationships between Georgina and Louise are warm and believable, and the broader supporting cast—particularly Viscount Mal and Lord and Lady Swift (Louise's parents) add a strong sense of found family. These interactions bring emotional depth and make the story feel grounded despite its more thrilling, quest-like elements.
The Rosie subplot stands out as a particularly effective narrative thread, introducing a clever twist that enhances the overall mystery. Additionally, the final portion of the novel significantly raises the stakes, incorporating elements such as abduction and resolution that make for a compelling and satisfying conclusion.
However, the pacing is somewhat uneven. The first 70–80% of the book is more focused on establishing the Regency setting, social dynamics, and cozy atmosphere, which, while enjoyable, can feel slow compared to the much more eventful final act. Readers who prefer tightly plotted mysteries may find this imbalance noticeable, whereas those who enjoy immersive, ambience-driven storytelling will likely appreciate the buildup.
The Regency setting is well-realised and adds to the novel’s charm. Elements such as the ball scene, romantic subplots, and societal intrigue contribute to a tone reminiscent of classic costume dramas (think Bridgerton and Downton Abbey). The narrative includes a range of familiar but satisfying tropes, including a strong-willed baroness, feminist reimaging, romantic tension, hidden relationships, and clearly defined antagonists.
Overall, this is a cozy, character-driven mystery that prioritises atmosphere and interpersonal relationships over fast-paced plotting. While the pacing could be more balanced, the engaging characters, charming setting, and strong final act make it a worthwhile read—particularly for fans of Regency fiction and cozy mysteries.
Rating: 3.5 stars rounded up to 4
January 27, 2026
Missing heiress, murder and the missing will.
This is a story of Georgina Bligh, Baroness of Elmsford. After the tragic events of her youth she has to hide from her uncle who wants to steal her title. For ten years she has managed to avoid him, but now he wants to declare her dead. Georgina, with the help of her friends, has to confront her uncle or lose everything.
The story is told from multiple POVs but it doesn't make it hard to follow the plot. I liked all the characters; they were very likeable and easy to root for. Georgina's relationship with the Swift family was very heartwarming; they treated her like family and believed her instantly about what happened to her father and her. I wish we could learn more about Bertie. He was always there for Georgina and would do anything to keep her safe. Georgina was very clever, brave and caring. Although she was very scared of her uncle, she didn't let it stop her. She fought for the title to help the tenants on the estate that suffered because of her uncle's mismanagement.
Even though the plot was not very complex, there were many moments that will keep you at the edge of your seat. The romance and the plot were well balanced, the story concentrated on the mystery element. The love between Georgina and Bertie was very sweet. I like that there wasn't any unnecessary drama. The author's note made the reading experience more special.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the story. It is a story for people who like cozy mysteries with a little romance. I hope we get Rosie's story. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGally for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is a story of Georgina Bligh, Baroness of Elmsford. After the tragic events of her youth she has to hide from her uncle who wants to steal her title. For ten years she has managed to avoid him, but now he wants to declare her dead. Georgina, with the help of her friends, has to confront her uncle or lose everything.
The story is told from multiple POVs but it doesn't make it hard to follow the plot. I liked all the characters; they were very likeable and easy to root for. Georgina's relationship with the Swift family was very heartwarming; they treated her like family and believed her instantly about what happened to her father and her. I wish we could learn more about Bertie. He was always there for Georgina and would do anything to keep her safe. Georgina was very clever, brave and caring. Although she was very scared of her uncle, she didn't let it stop her. She fought for the title to help the tenants on the estate that suffered because of her uncle's mismanagement.
Even though the plot was not very complex, there were many moments that will keep you at the edge of your seat. The romance and the plot were well balanced, the story concentrated on the mystery element. The love between Georgina and Bertie was very sweet. I like that there wasn't any unnecessary drama. The author's note made the reading experience more special.
Overall, I enjoyed reading the story. It is a story for people who like cozy mysteries with a little romance. I hope we get Rosie's story. I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Many thanks to the publisher and NetGally for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 15, 2026
Star rating: 3.25
Thank you NetGalley, Bianca M. Schwarz and Central Avenue Publishing for giving me the chance to read this ARC. Please note the opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Missing Baroness is a cozy mystery historical fiction that tells the story of Georgina Bligh. Georgina has been hiding from her uncle for 10 years after he killed her father and tried to do the same to her. Now she is getting ready to claim her rightful place in society, but things are about to change...
I really liked Georgina as a strong woman fighting for her place and making the transition from girl to woman. The mistery plot was interesting and keep the reader interested on the way the story would unfold. The scenery was another great part of the story with a lot of references to London in the 1800. However, I must confess that I found the pacing of the book a bit slow, I was expecting a fast pacing plot on the mystery side, more cliffhangers, but I keep just getting the coziness of it (this is probably my own fault, as I set my expectations that way). Additionally, the start of the romance plot was done off page, so there was a lot of telling not showing on it.
I would also like to say the cover of the book is beautiful and the author included a list of characters, which I don't often see in books and can be really helpful.
With that being said, I really think this is a cozy story perfect to read when you want to warm your heart. Which based on the lovely author note is the main purpose of this book. 🤍
Thank you NetGalley, Bianca M. Schwarz and Central Avenue Publishing for giving me the chance to read this ARC. Please note the opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Missing Baroness is a cozy mystery historical fiction that tells the story of Georgina Bligh. Georgina has been hiding from her uncle for 10 years after he killed her father and tried to do the same to her. Now she is getting ready to claim her rightful place in society, but things are about to change...
I really liked Georgina as a strong woman fighting for her place and making the transition from girl to woman. The mistery plot was interesting and keep the reader interested on the way the story would unfold. The scenery was another great part of the story with a lot of references to London in the 1800. However, I must confess that I found the pacing of the book a bit slow, I was expecting a fast pacing plot on the mystery side, more cliffhangers, but I keep just getting the coziness of it (this is probably my own fault, as I set my expectations that way). Additionally, the start of the romance plot was done off page, so there was a lot of telling not showing on it.
I would also like to say the cover of the book is beautiful and the author included a list of characters, which I don't often see in books and can be really helpful.
With that being said, I really think this is a cozy story perfect to read when you want to warm your heart. Which based on the lovely author note is the main purpose of this book. 🤍
January 27, 2026
enjoyed this novel. The romantic relationship between Georgina and Bertie was charming and added a nice softness to a plot that was otherwise quite dark. The side characters of Georgy’s best friends, adoptive family, and Nanny were all sweet and wonderful. It’s really lovely that the author wrote the book in her sister’s memory, and that comes out in the loving relationships in the book.
Some of the Holms plot elements felt a little farfetched, but that is part of the fun of a Gothic-style novel! The Meckel plot got very twisty for those who like novels with complex allegiances. I’d recommend this to others who enjoy historical romance with suspense, and don’t mind novels that are a little darker (albeit not TOO dark) and more descriptive in its kissing scenes. I rate this book 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Thank you to NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the free eARC! I post this review with my honest opinion.
Content warnings for those who like to know:
Violence:
Language: I don’t remember; perhaps there was some mild profanity?
Some of the Holms plot elements felt a little farfetched, but that is part of the fun of a Gothic-style novel! The Meckel plot got very twisty for those who like novels with complex allegiances. I’d recommend this to others who enjoy historical romance with suspense, and don’t mind novels that are a little darker (albeit not TOO dark) and more descriptive in its kissing scenes. I rate this book 4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
Thank you to NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the free eARC! I post this review with my honest opinion.
Content warnings for those who like to know:
Violence:
Language: I don’t remember; perhaps there was some mild profanity?
April 15, 2026
The Missing Baroness is a thoroughly enjoyable Regency mystery with a storyline that kept me engaged from start to finish. One of its biggest strengths is how well it balances the central mystery with the rhythms of everyday life in the Regency era. Rather than focusing solely on suspense, the story immerses you in social customs, relationships, and daily experiences, which made the world feel rich and believable.
The mystery itself is compelling and well-paced, with enough intrigue to keep you turning pages. I especially appreciated how the plot unfolded alongside the heroine’s personal life—it gave the story more depth than a typical mystery.
That said, the romance fell a bit short for me. While I liked the pairing in theory, the relationship didn’t feel as fully developed as it could have been. There wasn’t much tension or buildup before they came together, which made the romance feel a little rushed and less satisfying than the rest of the story.
Overall, though, this was a great read. The engaging plot, strong sense of setting, and focus on both mystery and everyday Regency life made it stand out. Even with the underdeveloped romance, I’d still highly recommend it—especially if you enjoy historical mysteries with a bit more substance beyond the central plot.
The mystery itself is compelling and well-paced, with enough intrigue to keep you turning pages. I especially appreciated how the plot unfolded alongside the heroine’s personal life—it gave the story more depth than a typical mystery.
That said, the romance fell a bit short for me. While I liked the pairing in theory, the relationship didn’t feel as fully developed as it could have been. There wasn’t much tension or buildup before they came together, which made the romance feel a little rushed and less satisfying than the rest of the story.
Overall, though, this was a great read. The engaging plot, strong sense of setting, and focus on both mystery and everyday Regency life made it stand out. Even with the underdeveloped romance, I’d still highly recommend it—especially if you enjoy historical mysteries with a bit more substance beyond the central plot.
March 24, 2026
The Missing Baroness has everything to love about a cozy mystery:
1. Regency times
2. Romance: it's always been you!
3. Found family
4. Secret hiding places and twists and turns
Georgina's father was killed by his brother and she has been in hiding from her uncle ever since. She sees her uncle while in London and finds that he is going to court to have her pronounced dead so he can inherit was is hers- finally after 10 years. With the help of her friends and family, Georgina makes it her mission to find her father's lost will and retake the barony.
This book is SO. MUCH. FUN. I highly recommend!!! Georgina is a determined and talented young lady trying to take her life back. I loved all of the supporting characters as well and loved the redemption arc for one of them. I only hope that Bianca gives us more of where this came from and we get to see more of these characters.
Thank you NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
1. Regency times
2. Romance: it's always been you!
3. Found family
4. Secret hiding places and twists and turns
Georgina's father was killed by his brother and she has been in hiding from her uncle ever since. She sees her uncle while in London and finds that he is going to court to have her pronounced dead so he can inherit was is hers- finally after 10 years. With the help of her friends and family, Georgina makes it her mission to find her father's lost will and retake the barony.
This book is SO. MUCH. FUN. I highly recommend!!! Georgina is a determined and talented young lady trying to take her life back. I loved all of the supporting characters as well and loved the redemption arc for one of them. I only hope that Bianca gives us more of where this came from and we get to see more of these characters.
Thank you NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for the ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 25, 2026
A very compelling cozy mystery romance, embedded in a rather gothic context.
The story started rather strong, with the (sordid) backstory of the artistic heroine being continuously revealed throughout the first chapters. The mystery serves as the leitmotiv here, while the love story is interweaved into all the action. The historical context is muted but provides a solid background for all the happenings. As deserving of a Gothic novel, the heroine is fierce, the villain is villainous, the group of friends helping the heroine are loyal, rich and adventurous.
An entertaining, cozy read for fans of Regency-era mystery romances and a wonderful start into what seems to be a new series. Looking forward to the future installments.
Thanks netgalley for the arc. Opinions are my own.
The story started rather strong, with the (sordid) backstory of the artistic heroine being continuously revealed throughout the first chapters. The mystery serves as the leitmotiv here, while the love story is interweaved into all the action. The historical context is muted but provides a solid background for all the happenings. As deserving of a Gothic novel, the heroine is fierce, the villain is villainous, the group of friends helping the heroine are loyal, rich and adventurous.
An entertaining, cozy read for fans of Regency-era mystery romances and a wonderful start into what seems to be a new series. Looking forward to the future installments.
Thanks netgalley for the arc. Opinions are my own.
February 1, 2026
3.5 stars. I loved the idea of Georgy being a sculptor, and I think it added a dimension of interest to her character. I have to say that this felt slow at times, and we heard Georgy’s predicament retold to everyone she came in contact with, so it started to feel repetitive. However, there was more excitement in the second half of the book that made it feel more engaging. It seemed strange to me that Georgy and Bertie went from being barely acquaintances to desperately in love…right after Bertie (a third son) found out about her inheritance lol.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
February 21, 2026
I had not read anything by this author before and was very happy to get an advance copy based on the plot summary. The story centers on Georgina, who has been in hiding since her father’s murder and her inheritance of a title and estate in northern England put her at risk from her villainous uncle who wants her out of the way. Georgina’s attempts to secure her inheritance provide ample drama and excitement throughout, while romance comes in the form of a friend who helps try to keep her safe. It’s an enjoyable, easy read. It is clean but a little more PG-13 than PG, if you care about those things. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All views are entirely my own and offered voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Georgina is hiding from her Uncle as she is an heiress and he wants to control her and her fortune. He finds a way to try and force her out of hiding, and she finds herself trying to solve a mystery... with a bit of romance thrown in.
This is a solid enough regency romance. At times the pacing was slow and the story a little repetitive, but the premise is good, as is Georgina's character.
Written as a homage to her sister, the author's note explains why this story was so personal and important to her. Which really means it doesn't matter what the rest of us think - a labour of love can not be rated :)
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy.
This is a solid enough regency romance. At times the pacing was slow and the story a little repetitive, but the premise is good, as is Georgina's character.
Written as a homage to her sister, the author's note explains why this story was so personal and important to her. Which really means it doesn't matter what the rest of us think - a labour of love can not be rated :)
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced reader copy.
January 31, 2026
I have read "the gentleman spy mystery series" by this author and had exactly the same feeling when reading this book: slow at times, rich in descriptions of details that sometime add very little to the story and a plot that could be great but happens to fall flat now and then.
All things considered, I would rate this book 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
All things considered, I would rate this book 3.5 stars.
I received an advance copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily, thanks to the author for it.
April 17, 2026
Nightmares plagued her.
Memories of a betrayal.
Hiding from danger…. Only for it to find her on a quiet street.
Her identity is hidden. But for how much longer? Just seven months. Seven more months of secrecy.
Time is up… she must find the hidden will. Show the truth to be free… or end up like the soul in her nightmares.
She’s not alone. He’s willing to help.
Can they finish their mission with evil lurking around the corner?
Memories of a betrayal.
Hiding from danger…. Only for it to find her on a quiet street.
Her identity is hidden. But for how much longer? Just seven months. Seven more months of secrecy.
Time is up… she must find the hidden will. Show the truth to be free… or end up like the soul in her nightmares.
She’s not alone. He’s willing to help.
Can they finish their mission with evil lurking around the corner?
May 9, 2026
This is the first book by this author that I have read. I found it a very engaging story. The characters were well written, and the storyline flowed nicely, although for me, there could have been a little less filler. I found it hard to put down. There was a good variety of suspense and mystery with a lovely, sweet romance. I would like to read more by this author as they are a nice light read. I received this as an ARC from Netgalley and freely give my review.
Did Not Finish
March 11, 2026I wasn't able to finish and this book was simply not for me. I should not have requested a historical romance. I can tell that the author is amazing at writing, though! I wish her luck in all her future endeavors as well as the events in the beginning note.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
March 11, 2026
Editorial blurb:
"THE MISSING BARONESS will delight readers looking for historical mystery with cretinous villains, a relatable protagonist and a sweetly romantic thread to tie it all together. A terrific start to what is sure to be a riveting and cozy series!"
"THE MISSING BARONESS will delight readers looking for historical mystery with cretinous villains, a relatable protagonist and a sweetly romantic thread to tie it all together. A terrific start to what is sure to be a riveting and cozy series!"
April 30, 2026
I absolutely love mysteries, the historical aspect is a little new to me but I still really enjoyed reading this. I had a hard time putting it down, I hope to read more by this author!!
May 7, 2026
Having read Bianca Schwarz's past books, I was excited to see a new title with her name on it. This is quite a departure in style for her, and she writes about that in her forward. This book was for her late sister, who preferred cozy romances instead of Schwarz's usual dark style.
It took a little getting used to the new style and there were times when I thought it was veering into YA territory. The pace of this story was a little slower than I was used to, so this took a little longer for me to get through. It was a cute story with a some sleuthing to make things interesting. The MMC was protective and the FMC was a determined, but vulnerable heiress trying to thwart an evil uncle.
Overall, it was a solid story with a sweet romance.
It took a little getting used to the new style and there were times when I thought it was veering into YA territory. The pace of this story was a little slower than I was used to, so this took a little longer for me to get through. It was a cute story with a some sleuthing to make things interesting. The MMC was protective and the FMC was a determined, but vulnerable heiress trying to thwart an evil uncle.
Overall, it was a solid story with a sweet romance.
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