Miss Bigsby and the Aristocrat Next Door

Dazzling Debutantes #9

by C.N. Jarrett

She has loved him for years. In his darkest hour, she is determined to save him by uncovering the real killer.

In this clean historical romance an heir stands to lose everything unless he can find the truth, and the girl next door is the only one standing by his side while danger lurks in the shadows.

He could lose his title and his life ...
Simon Scott is set to inherit a title and a fortune until powerful lords accuse him of murder. Now his betrothed has broken ties with him and he could be arrested at any moment. Trouble is he knows he is innocent, but who will believe him when all the evidence points to him?

She knows he is not a killer ...
Madeline Bigsby has been in love with Simon since they were children, but he was too obsessed with his duty to notice. In his darkest hour, she is determined to save him uncovering the real killer.

The stakes are high and love has never been such a dangerous game. Can Simon accept help from the girl he left behind to discover who has framed him and perhaps learn the value of true love along the way?

Miss Bigsby and the Aristocrat Next Door is a heartwarming tale of integrity, unexpected devotion, and love found in the most unlikely of places. Can be read as a standalone.

Genres: Historical Romance, Mystery

245 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 25, 2026

Reviews

[Awkamon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Miss Bigsby and the Arostocrat Next Door was exactly what I hoped it would be.

Simon bound by duty sacrifices all, including the love of his life, Miss Bigsby.

I enjoyed this book very much. Simon's longing to be back in the old days. So kind and respectable. Poor Miss Bigsby, but she was so understanding and did her best for him anyway. Great end! Looking forward to the rest in this series as this is where I started. So grateful to be part of this!.

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

[Ruxi Avram · Rating 5 out of 5]

We finally get to find out who (and why) killed the late Baron!
This book is not in the same tone with the rest of the books of the series, is so much more! It is a long lasting love story, a childhood love that beats time and social differences, that has to pass the disdain and,by the end,it does.
I really loved this book, is so much more powerful than the others! Simon Scott is so tormented and sad and just has to align to a destiny he does not want, trapped in a house full of sadness and death.
Madeline is his savior as Simon is for her, and together they manage to end the mystery of the Baron 's death.
This is a delightful book, and I am grateful for being able to read it in advance! Thank you, C.N.Jarrett for this book!

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Bigsby and the Aristocrat Next Door, the fifth in the Reluctant Reckoning series, is a bit grittier than the previous books in this series, but not uncomfortably so. The investigation into the late (unlamented) Lord Filminster’s murder has settled on Simon Scott as the villain. Madeline Bigsby knew that he had not killed the baron—Simon had been with her in the garden their neighboring properties shared. But she could not come forward with the disclosure—not only would it ruin her reputation, it would not be believed. Simon’s mother had already claimed that he had been with her at the time of the murder—a claim that had had quickly been disproven, which added to the assumption of his guilt.

Although Simon is duty-bound to marry Olivia Boyle, eldest daughter of Lord Boyle, Madeline’s love for Simon is strong enough that she determines to investigate the crime herself (with the help of Molly Carter, a cousin living with the Scotts since the death of her widowed mother) and prove, by means other than her alibi for him, that he had not murdered the baron.

Madeline, the talented sculptor daughter of Eleanor Bigsby, who held a Royal Warrant for her stone manufacturing business, and Simon, second son of Lord Blackwood, are, as one expects in this series, multi-faceted characters, people you would like to include among your friends.

Unlike most mystery series which feature a main protagonist and a supporting cast who generally solve a new mystery in each volume, this series focuses on solving the murder of Lord Filminster utilizing a different couple in each volume, aided by characters from prior books in the series. The author’s expert handling of prior events does not require reading of the earlier books, but having read them gives nuance and details to the murder and actions of the characters from the prior books.

I love the format of this series. Each book ends with an unresolved issue which is picked up in the next book—just like the old-fashion serial films with their successive installments.

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

[Jayne Butcher · Rating 5 out of 5]

The saga of who killed Baron Filminster continues…and is answered. Simon Scott, the second surviving son of Baron Blackwood, was in love with Madeline Bigsby, his next door neighbor whose mother owned and operated a premier stone manufacturing business, and of whom his father disapproved. Madeline and Simon often met in the walled garden shared by the two properties and discussed a future where they worked the stone manufacturing business together. However, his younger brother’s accident, his father’s death, and his older brother’s failing health, all conspired to change the happy young man into a serious one whose duty to his family took precedent over his own desires. The garden meetings grew fewer and fewer until one evening Simon came to tell Madeline that they would never be able to have their dream. Shortly thereafter, the Duke of Halmesbury, the Earl of Saunton, the new Baron Filminster, Viscount Trafford, and Mr. Gideon, Trafford’s ‘brother-in-law’, all came to unoffically accuse Simon of the previous Baron Filminster’s murder. Simon was blindsided and flabbergasted! This story will take you on a roundabout route to find the killer(s), while breaking your heart and igniting your anger and disgust along the way. You will find yourself holding your breath and gritting your teeth, as your heart beats faster and your stomach ties itself in knots. Even when things looked like they were going to work out, new obligations were placed on Simon. However, Simon’s garden surprise for Madeline was a stroke of genius! This is one of those stories that builds to a crescendo, promises a happy ending, and leaves one question dangling as a tee-up for the next book in the series….but it is done so well that you will not be able to put it down once you start reading!.

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

[Wold · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟3.5🌟Miss Bigsby and the Aristocrat Next Door is a Regency mystery romance that leans more heavily into the romantic storyline than the mystery itself. At just 245 pages, it’s a quick, fast-paced read, though the pacing feels uneven at times.
The story centers on the friends-to-lovers relationship between Simon and Madeline. It opens strongly, establishing a sense of star-crossed lovers kept apart by circumstance and family objection. From the beginning, it’s easy to feel invested in their connection—both characters are likable and clearly care deeply for one another, even when they believe they cannot be together.
However, the momentum slows considerably in the middle. A significant amount of time is spent focusing on the betrothal, which feels drawn out—especially since the synopsis already hints that it won’t succeed. By about 40% into the novel, relatively little has happened, and the story begins to lose some of its initial appeal.
The mystery element remains mostly in the background and is resolved fairly easily, making it somewhat predictable. That said, once the resolution begins, the pace picks up again, and the final portion of the book becomes much more engaging. The author creates effective tension by allowing the reader to know more than the characters, which adds a sense of anticipation and concern for what might happen next.
The conclusion is satisfying and ties everything together well. While the book works as a standalone, it is part of a series. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a cozy, romantic read with a light touch of mystery—something short, sweet, and easy to get through. I’d consider picking up another installment in the series when in the mood for a quick and comforting story.

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

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic story in this series. Very well written and very hard to put down to do anything. Full of intrigue, drama, society, murder, family, friends, love, secrets and duty. Simon Scott is the spare so that after his brother's passing he becomes the next Lord Blackwood. Even if he doesn't want it , his Brother, John, looks sicker everyday. Simon does try to get him to see another doctor but Lady Blackwood insists that he is the family doctor and is helping John. Simon is also pushed to do his duty and marry well, continuing the family bloodlines. But he has been in love with Madeline over the years. Madeline has also been in love with him and hopes to marry him one day but society and duty has other plans. When a Duke and others show up at the house and ask where John and Simon were the night that a Baron was killed. John has a straight up answer but Simon doesn't want to say that he was with Madeline, it would ruin her. Lord and Lady Trafford are there the day John collapses from being poisoned , able to help him and then start looking to see who would be the suspects. Someone is poisoning them and answers need to be gotten. Has lots of action and some sadness. Love the ending and can't wait for the next book. The characters, old and new are so special, their love and caring for the other highlights the series. Would recommend to everyone this book and the series.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Joy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Setting:
Mrs. Eleanor Bigsby and her twin daughters Madeline and Henrietta live next door to a Baron and his family, with the middle son Simon having grown up with Madeline Bigsby as a trusted friend.  However, Simon Scott’s father forbade Simon from pursuing a commoner. Now, 10 years later, neither Simon nor Madeline has found anyone that they care to marry—other than each other.
This book picks up the threads of “who killed The Baron of Filminster’, coming at the solution from a completely different angle.  They are ‘putting the finger’ on Simon!  John continues to decline, without a clear diagnosis, which is exacerbated when a group of Lords repeatedly come to interrogate Simon and his household about  Baron Filminster’s death and the subsequent attack on one of the Lords.  
I found this an enjoyable extension of the series, focusing on entirely new main characters. The Lords investigating Baron Filminster’s murder give the story continuity with the earlier books and stir up attacks on John and then Madeline! There are many twists and turns in the story before the true villain is discovered, keeping the reader glued to the pages!  
   A clean book, appropriate for all ages.
I received an early copy from BookSprout. My review is voluntary and reflects my own opinion.

[Emily Pennington · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simon and Madeline . . .

Simon Scott’s father, Lord Blackwood, is very definitely a snob, thinking anyone who does not have a noble title is worthless. His son Simon has been friends with a mere commoner, Madeline Bigsby, as they were neighbors growing up together. However, Lord Blackwood has his own plans for Simon and wishes to keep him and Madeline apart. However, Simon is already certain that Madeline is the woman he loves and hopes to marry. But his father will not allow it, and a tragic accident has Simon closing off his heart.

Years later, when a group of Lords insist on interrogating Simon as the culprit who had murdered the Baron of Filminster, will his life be at risk if they are successful in breaking him down. However, Madeline is certain that Simon could not possibly be guilty of the murder. Will she put herself at risk to pursue the truth to save him? Can she possibly clear his name and discover what is really going on? Or will he lose his life because of a false accusation? Fortunately for Simon, Madeline is not a quitter! (I wish Simon had been a stronger character rather than allowing his family to constantly control his life. He gives up too soon. But Madeline makes up for it when she remains determined and unafraid to do the right thing for the man she cares about, even after all those years. Will she finally uncover the truth?)

[Ruth Coulson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Madeline and Simon live in adjacent houses with a garden accessed from both houses. For much of their youth the two have met regularly in the garden to talk and to dream about their future. Their shared future is in jeopardy, however. Their living proximity is close, but their backgrounds are far apart. Simon is from a noble family while Madeline's mother Eleanor has made her way in business without help. She has created a successful stone carving business with a Royal Charter and at the same time raised two daughters as a widow.
So there is a thread of class prejudice running through the novel. There is also the injury to Simon's brother as a result of the brother following him on a night escapade. There is the possible implication of Simon in the death of Lord Filminster. There is the death of Simon's father leaving Simon as the heir to the Blackwood title. And, of course there is the fact that two other heirs have appeared from Italy to challenge Simon's right to inherit. That makes for a very busy novel.
So these are the happenings. But they also are the pegs upon which hang quite a lot of social commentary. Duty to a sibling, truth and honour, duty to family and title, and, naturally duty to love, for it is a love story.
The end is satisfying in the extreme.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying the Dazzling Debutante series by C.N. Jarrett, and Miss Bigsby & the Aristocrat Next Door answered the question of who killed the Baron. The killer’s motives are a bit far-fetched, but it was clear the culprit was deeply unhinged.

Simon Scott’s father despises anyone without a title and strongly disapproves of his son’s friendship with Madeline Bigsby. He has high expectations for Simon, and Madeline—the daughter of a tradeswoman—doesn’t fit into the future he envisions. Simon and Madeline have been meeting in their neighboring gardens for years, and Simon knows she is the woman he wants to marry regardless of his parents feelings.

When a terrible tragedy occurs and Simon is consumed by misplaced guilt, he decides he must embrace the title and fortune he is expected to inherit. Tormented by his change in circumstances, he feels he has no other choice. I was disappointed by Simon’s willingness to let his family manipulate him rather than stay true to his heart. But when powerful lords accuse him of murder and of hiding knowledge he does not possess, his very life hangs in the balance.

Madeline, hurt but steadfast, knows in her heart Simon is not a killer. Her determination to clear his name and uncover the truth drives the story to its climax.

C.N. Jarrett’s writing captivates with emotional depth and vivid descriptions, masterfully blending suspense with heartfelt romance. The story’s pacing was perfect, while the authentic characters and unexpected twists maintain a sense of intrigue, leaving one constantly questioning the motives behind the killings. This installment seamlessly intertwines mystery, devotion, and betrayal into a narrative that lingers long after the final page. It stands as a true testament to Jarrett’s talent for creating a world where love and courage ultimately overcome fear and societal pressures.

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

[HfbR · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the story of Simon Scott & Madeline Bigsby. The Scott and Bigsby families have long been neighbours, and they share a walled garden. On the night of the murder Simon and Madeline were alone together in the garden, but to use her as his alibi would ruin her reputation and that of her family ………

This is another well written and well researched book which continues the murder story running through the Reluctant Reckonings series. I recommend starting the series at the beginning as not only will the story flow better, but in my opinion all the books are well worth a read. The characters are excellent, you really feel for Simon and how he handles his responsibilities in a time when appearances were everything, forcing him to commit to marrying a bride from a ‘good family’ rather than Madeline, the woman he loves. The return of characters from previous books by the author is something I personally enjoy a lot too, so it all adds up to an enjoyable read. I’ve read quite a lot of books by this author now and enjoyed every one, so would not hesitate to recommend them if you’re looking for some good stories and excellent characters 🐈‍⬛.

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

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story so much that I read it twice before leaving a review. As always in this series, the romance is stand alone with new male and female leads, but if you want to follow the overarching murder mystery then it's best to read the books in order. That way you also get to meet up with some old friends, always a joy in C N Jarrett's work. I've enjoyed all the books so far, but I think this is possibly the best story and I loved the references to Eros and Psyche and the fact that Madeline's mother is based on a real, successful business woman of that time. Madeline and Simon are both decent people, prepared to put others first at cost to themselves and it's such a delight when their childhood romance finally comes to fruition. The characterisation is excellent and there is quite a lot of depth to the story, which is well paced. The reveal of who actually killed the baron was a surprise. I hadn't worked it out beforehand - one of the reasons I read it again was to see if I had missed any obvious clues. I don't think I had, but it all makes sense quite cleverly. And then there's another twist! I'm looking forward to the next book.

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

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book answers the mystery of who killed Baron Filminster. I have not read the prior books in this series but chose to read this book because it’s childhood best friends to lovers.

Simon Scott, heir to Baron Blackwood, has two problems. He’s just become engaged to an absolute ninny for her bloodlines, and in doing so ended his relationship with the love of his life, Madeleine. He also stands accused of murdering Baron Filminster to hide the fact that his late brother left behind two sons. The new heirs is a good thing, because if he’s not the heir, then he wouldn’t have to marry Miss Brainless if he hadn’t just signed the betrothal agreement.

What I liked was that Madeleine and Simon seemed so in tune with one another for most of the book. Madeleine was sad and devastated when she believed that there was no way to be with Simon, but she was never angry. As a reader, I was angry though, when Simon expected Madeleine to comfort him that he’s going to have to marry someone else. Excuse me sir?!!

The mystery elements were very well done, and the clues were there enough that it did briefly cross my mind earlier in the text before the big reveal of who the murderer is.

I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book

[T M. Robertson · Rating 5 out of 5]

A witty, romantic mystery full of heart and daring!

The Trouble with Titles by Nina Jarrett weaves together everything I adore in a Regency romance — a slow-burn connection, social intrigue, and a heroine who refuses to stay in her tidy little box.

The boy-next-door trope shines here as Madeline’s long-standing affection for Simon transforms into something deeper when scandal and danger threaten his name.I loved watching Madeline shed the expectations of the innocent young lady she’s always been. Her courageous choice to defy propriety — stepping into the investigation to protect Simon and uncover a killer — makes her both reckless and wonderfully real.

Jarrett balances the romance, humor, and mystery perfectly, leaving me smiling one moment and breathless the next.A must-read for fans of clever heroines, loyal heroes, and love stories that bloom in the most unexpected circumstances.

[Pam Watmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I have read the series andI have found that basically it is the same story written from a different viewpoint and maybe adding another character or so which is disappointing as you already know the story with a bit added. Simon Scott is accused of murdering his Father and it is believed that circumstances show that he is not due to inherit some titles and fortune and the powerful lords accusing him of murder as it has been discovered that there is another more legitimate heir which nobody knew about. He has to prove his innocence or if proved guilty he could be hanged. There are initially only two people who believe in Simone being the girl next door who has over him for a long time despite him not realising it. Can she save him or must he hang for a crime redid not commit. To find out the answer you have to wait for the next book.

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Madeline Bigsby hears Simon Scott has been accused of murder, she is determined to prove him innocent. Madeline and Simon have been neighbors and friends for years; in truth, they are in love. She and Molly, a Scott cousin, make a plan to find the real killer. Things become a little shadier when new heirs are discovered, and John, and then Madeline are poisoned. It seems the ladies might have the right idea. Will this case finally be solved? Well-crafted, full of mystery, murder, drama, danger, lots of secrets, twists, turns, and surprises, this one is hard to put down. The characters are quite interesting. There is a gathering of sorts of the characters from other stories in the series. Romance? The friendship that began in the garden shared by their families becomes a love story for Simon and Madeline.
I received an ARC of this book via BookSprout and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Brooke Hannah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Bigsby and the Aristocrat Next Door

C.N. Jarrett

I've read this entire series so far, and I'll be honest, I was afraid they would be all the same. I was wrong. Ms Jarrett managed to create a story that barely leaves a house and a garden. A unique turn from many historical novels that have their characters touring London throughout the book.

I received this as a free ARC and leaving this review because I want to. 😉

Childhood friends who fall in love while growing up are separated by an accident and a sense of duty. When he is suspected of murder, it is up to her to help clear his name.. or possibly die trying.

A wrap up of sorts of the main mystery from book 1, this clean romance delivers a sweet love story with a twist in a murder mystery.

Read this series in order, but definitely add them to your TBR.

[Southern Belle]

The mystery is coming closer to being resolved in this book as we get to know a new couple in the ever growing circle of the Duke’s family and close acquaintances. I loved the references and the similarities drawn between Simon and Madeline to Eros and Psyche. This story can be read as a stand-alone although is much better after reading the previous books in the series. I enjoyed seeing bits of the previous characters in this book and look forward to the next book wrapping up the entire mystery. If you want to enjoy just Simon & Madeline’s story, avoid the epilogue which references the next book in the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Charmaine Fernando · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was yet another good mystery / romance read. Simon Scott has lived next door to Miss Madeline Bigsby and played together as children. They have been in love with each other for as long as either can remember and have always thought they would marry and settle down.

Unfortunately for Simon, his father has forbidden them to marry as he sees Simon marrying an aristocrat. Ten years down the line, and neither one is married to anyone at this point.

Added to this, Simon has been identified as the main suspect in the mystery of who killed The Baron of Filminster. We finally get an answer and no, it is not Simon.

I thoroughly enjoyed this and would recommend it. I received an ARC from the publishers and Booksprout and submit my honest review voluntarily.

[Alicia Marsland · Rating 4 out of 5]

Surprising almost-finale

Very interesting characters, haunting broken engagement, all woven together expertly to provide an answer to the question “who swopped the baron in his study, providing the opportunity for five romances to blossom?” Sunsets and sunrises figure prominently. The author theorises that
They might have been more brilliant in day when the story took place.

Yes, in fact the pollution of the day would have produced magnificent sunsets. Not to mention a volcano that went off, enabling a full year of blazing colour so riveting that a water colourist recorded one sunset each night. The paintings are in a wide drawer in the British Museum, too numerous to exhibit. I forgot the names of both volcano and artist. Sorry!

[Beverly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Simon frustrated me, especially when he became a doormat for his family, which led him into worse situations. He became someone I didn't like or respect. Only Madeline's aide could he get him out of legal problems, but she's the one he deserted for family!!! Things are a dreadful mess. Can they work together to clear Simon , or will he continue to be the family doormat?? Twists, lies, shame, and secrets. Maddie is in grave danger, because she tried to help Simon- guess who!!?? Gobsmacked! Is there more treachery to follow? Can't wait for the next book. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Rayna · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable read, as always, from this author. So happy to finally find out who killed the baron… and glad to know there is yet one more book in the series.

Simon’s need to adhere to all the rules of the aristocracy annoyed me, but I also try and understand that I have no frame of reference whatsoever on which to judge that behaviour.

I liked Madeline quite a lot… but these books have all featured some pretty spirited women, and this book didn’t disappoint.

I also love when she brings back characters in book after book… somehow it’s like visiting with old friends!

Thank you to the author for a free advance reader copy of this novel. I am voluntarily leaving this review.

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Guilty until proven innocent?
We continue following the inquiries around the murder of Baron Filminster. In this book, Madeline and Simon are young and in love, until fate separates them when Simon’s younger brother falls from the third floor trying to follow Simon. Consumed by guild and duty, Simon closes his heart and only lives for the barony. Years later, when he is accused of Baron Filminster’s murder to thwart the search for the real heir to his brother’s barony, Madeline is convinced of Simon’s innocence and will do everything to help him.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Leann Arave · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed the other books in this series. I’m not sure why, but this one I had a hard time getting into. Simon Scott and Madeline Bigsby have grown up as neighbors and fell in love. Unfortunately, Simon’s father forbid Simon from marrying her. Approximately 10 years later, they still long for each other, but circumstances have changed and Simon is betrothed to another. There are many twist and turns in the story. The secrets, lies, and betrayal is what Simon has to grapple with. It is an intriguing mystery and a clean romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Delphia Von Heeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Miss Bigsby and the Aristocrat Next Door is Book 4 in the Reluctant Reckoning Series by C N Jarrett. I enjoy Historical Regency stories. Simon is supposed to inherit a title and wealth. Someone wants this enough to murder and frame Simon. Madeline does not believe that Simon is a murderer. I thought the author wrote great characters and I believe that this story was interesting with dead ends, frustration and perhaps a bit of romance… excellent story. I received an arc for free and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Holly Hastings]

I enjoyed getting started in this next book in the series. And then the murder investigation started again …. I was getting weary of it but there is finally a resolution to it that I didn't see coming. I like how the characters are friends or new friends and continue from book to book. And the siblings are all supportive of each other. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. The way the book ended wheted my anticipation for the next book in the series.

[Becky Durstenfeld · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story. It was good getting to know new characters and meeting some of the previous ones again. This one was a bit different in that there was more focus on solving the mystery, which finally does get solved. There are sad things in the book. There is romance that began as friendship and came very close to not having a happily ever after ending. Even though this story got wrapped up, there are new characters to follow in future stories which I look forward to reading.

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

[Cheryl Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have read the series and for the most part have enjoyed it and looked forward to having the mystery solved. Without giving anything away, the reason for the crime did not make sense to me and left a plot hole. So as a reader, I feel let down. There was one gasp moment I did not expect, not in the whodunit, but in one of the crimes committed by the suspect, so that was nice. An easy read that you should read if you have followed the series.

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

[Patty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Psyche and Eros.

I enjoyed this suspense – romance – murder mystery. The burdens of family perception and social strata is just so interesting. I loved how the foundation of Simon and Madeline’s friendship grew from childhood. The added thoughts embedded in Greek mythology was also fun. The ideas of greed and selfish vanity clearly are timeless. Watching the mystery unfold and HEA result was very satisfying.

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

[Jeri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great conclusion to this five book mystery of the murder of an unpopular baron. We see all of our old friends from the previous books. When a young man who is next in line for a baronacy is suspected to be a killer, the girl Next Door helps him solve it. Surprising dénouement. Clean.
I have enjoyed all of C N Jarrett’s books so much, and I am grateful for the ARC of this book, which I received at no charge; all opinions are my own.