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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.
- GenresRomance
Unknown Binding
Published January 1, 2026
3 people are currently reading
34 people want to read
About the author
Bianca M. Schwarz
9 books116 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 - 12 of 12 reviews
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.
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?
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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews