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The Brelsford Brothers #1
The Marquess Married a Murderess
A cursed widow, a determined marquess, and one very messy dessert…what could possibly go wrong?
When Edward Brelsford, the Marquess of Lockhaven, accidentally dumps his dessert down the gown of a mysterious beauty, he knows his life will never be the same. He’s avoided matrimony like the plague but now…he may have just met the one woman who can entice him out of his bachelorhood.
The only problem - Selena MacLaren has vowed never to marry again. She’s convinced she’s cursed, having already buried four husbands. She has no desire to once again trade in her wedding veil for widow’s weeds. Edward’s penchant for mischief and tendency to narrowly avoid catastrophic accidents only confirms she needs to keep her distance, for his own good.
Still, despite his family’s misgivings about the rumors surrounding her and what actually happened to all her husbands, Edward, is determined to woo her. And Selena cannot help but hope that this time, the curse will be broken. But then someone from her past reappears and threatens their newfound love.
Now, they’ll need to learn to trust in each other and their love if they want to overcome opposition in all directions—along with the curse that seems to claim any man she marries—if they want to find their happily ever after in this delightful Regency romp inspired by the 1990s romcom So I Married an Axe Murderer.
Tropes you'll Meet-Cute Gone WrongBachelor HeroReluctant HeroineRumors and ReputationWooing the Reluctant BrideComedy of ErrorsHappily Ever After
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
The Brelsford Brothers
Book 1 - The Marquess Married a Murderess
Book 2 – You've Got the Marquess's Mail
Book 3 - While the Marquess was Missing
When Edward Brelsford, the Marquess of Lockhaven, accidentally dumps his dessert down the gown of a mysterious beauty, he knows his life will never be the same. He’s avoided matrimony like the plague but now…he may have just met the one woman who can entice him out of his bachelorhood.
The only problem - Selena MacLaren has vowed never to marry again. She’s convinced she’s cursed, having already buried four husbands. She has no desire to once again trade in her wedding veil for widow’s weeds. Edward’s penchant for mischief and tendency to narrowly avoid catastrophic accidents only confirms she needs to keep her distance, for his own good.
Still, despite his family’s misgivings about the rumors surrounding her and what actually happened to all her husbands, Edward, is determined to woo her. And Selena cannot help but hope that this time, the curse will be broken. But then someone from her past reappears and threatens their newfound love.
Now, they’ll need to learn to trust in each other and their love if they want to overcome opposition in all directions—along with the curse that seems to claim any man she marries—if they want to find their happily ever after in this delightful Regency romp inspired by the 1990s romcom So I Married an Axe Murderer.
Tropes you'll Meet-Cute Gone WrongBachelor HeroReluctant HeroineRumors and ReputationWooing the Reluctant BrideComedy of ErrorsHappily Ever After
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
The Brelsford Brothers
Book 1 - The Marquess Married a Murderess
Book 2 – You've Got the Marquess's Mail
Book 3 - While the Marquess was Missing
- GenresHistorical Fiction
248 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2025
5 people are currently reading
15 people want to read
About the author
Michelle McLean
38 books281 followersMichelle McLean is a jeans and t-shirt kind of girl who is addicted to chocolate and Goldfish crackers and spent most of her formative years with her nose in a book. She has a B.S. in History, an M.A. in English, and loves her romances with a little heat, a lot of humor, and always a happily ever after.
When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.
For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.
When Michelle's not working, reading, or chasing her kids around, she can usually be found baking or diamond painting, which she accidentally got addicted to while bored one day. She resides in PA with her husband and two teens, the world's most spoiled dog, and two cats who absolutely rule the house. She also writes contemporary romance as Kira Archer.
For more info on Michelle and her work, visit her website at michellemcleanbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 11, 2025
A widow draws the attention of a marquess at a ball. Totally smitten, courting is on his mind. Friends and family have heard numerous rumors about her past, but he doesn't care. She feels she's cursed and discourages his advances, but he's not giving up.
He has his own methods of persuasion. Humor, passionate kisses and descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
He has his own methods of persuasion. Humor, passionate kisses and descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
October 27, 2025
A perfect escapist Regency romp with spice, snark, and sass.
November 1, 2025
Selena and Edward
“The Marquess Married a Murderess” is written by Michelle McLean. This is the first book I have read by this author. I chose it because of the description. This book didn’t disappoint. Selena was a young widow with not one, not two, not even three dead husbands. Selena was married and widowed four times and almost had a fifth husband, except he left her at the alter. Her dead husbands were spread across Europe. She had settled in England with her sister-in-law where she met Edward, a marquess and heir to a dukedom. She refused to get involved again believing she was cursed. Edward never considered marriage an option. Rumors about Selena followed her casting her as a murderess. Selena and Edward were both interesting, well written characters. Neither was seeking marriage but they had an undeniable connection . The story was not a typical historical romance, a four time widow was the female lead, but it was quite enjoyable and entertaining. The leads managed to work their way to a happy ever after, after a heartfelt chase. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. My favorite was Edward’s best friend, Anthony, also a noble and a member of the ton. His banter was witty and amusing, sometimes he was supportive, other times he played devil’s advocate. His mouth had no filter, but ultimately he meant well. This is an open door romance, very steamy, very passionate, woven appropriately through the story. The pacing of the story was well done, the story held my interest all the way through. I do recommend this book. I would definitely read another historical romance from this author.
I was given an advanced reader copy by NetGallery. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“The Marquess Married a Murderess” is written by Michelle McLean. This is the first book I have read by this author. I chose it because of the description. This book didn’t disappoint. Selena was a young widow with not one, not two, not even three dead husbands. Selena was married and widowed four times and almost had a fifth husband, except he left her at the alter. Her dead husbands were spread across Europe. She had settled in England with her sister-in-law where she met Edward, a marquess and heir to a dukedom. She refused to get involved again believing she was cursed. Edward never considered marriage an option. Rumors about Selena followed her casting her as a murderess. Selena and Edward were both interesting, well written characters. Neither was seeking marriage but they had an undeniable connection . The story was not a typical historical romance, a four time widow was the female lead, but it was quite enjoyable and entertaining. The leads managed to work their way to a happy ever after, after a heartfelt chase. The secondary characters added a lot to the story. My favorite was Edward’s best friend, Anthony, also a noble and a member of the ton. His banter was witty and amusing, sometimes he was supportive, other times he played devil’s advocate. His mouth had no filter, but ultimately he meant well. This is an open door romance, very steamy, very passionate, woven appropriately through the story. The pacing of the story was well done, the story held my interest all the way through. I do recommend this book. I would definitely read another historical romance from this author.
I was given an advanced reader copy by NetGallery. My thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
December 11, 2025
This book is a charming mix of Regency romance, humor, and just the right touch of mystery. The story begins with one of the funniest meet-cutes I’ve read in a while—a marquess, a crowded ballroom, and a disastrously misplaced dessert. From that moment, Edward and Selena’s story hooked me.
Selena is a widow who believes she’s cursed, having lost four husbands already. Her fear feels genuine, and it adds a bittersweet layer to her character. Edward, on the other hand, is all determination and heart. His refusal to be scared off—despite his own talent for near-misses and accidents—makes him easy to love.
Their romance is full of playful banter, tender moments, and a growing trust that feels earned. I liked how the story balances light, romcom-style humor with deeper emotional stakes.
The supporting cast and family drama add extra color without overshadowing the central romance. And while the “curse” creates tension, the book keeps a warm, hopeful tone throughout.
If you enjoy Regency romps with humor, swoony heroes, determined heroines, and a sprinkle of suspense, this one is an easy recommendation. Charming, heartfelt, and wonderfully fun.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Selena is a widow who believes she’s cursed, having lost four husbands already. Her fear feels genuine, and it adds a bittersweet layer to her character. Edward, on the other hand, is all determination and heart. His refusal to be scared off—despite his own talent for near-misses and accidents—makes him easy to love.
Their romance is full of playful banter, tender moments, and a growing trust that feels earned. I liked how the story balances light, romcom-style humor with deeper emotional stakes.
The supporting cast and family drama add extra color without overshadowing the central romance. And while the “curse” creates tension, the book keeps a warm, hopeful tone throughout.
If you enjoy Regency romps with humor, swoony heroes, determined heroines, and a sprinkle of suspense, this one is an easy recommendation. Charming, heartfelt, and wonderfully fun.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 19, 2025
4.4
We have Edward Brelsford, the Marquess of Lockhaven, totally adverse to matrimony and normally runs in the opposite direction! He did until he dumps his dessert on one Mrs Selena Dampierre Fiorentino Albescu MacLauren née Griffiths!
One look into her blue eyes and Edward was a goner! But after each encounter Selena literally runs from him! The third time is the charm after the third run away she agrees to give him a chance!
These two have off the chart chemistry! But Selena past has secrets some hilarious but nonetheless they exist!
She has met the one man in possibly the world undaunted by her past and title of Lady Death! But can she convince his parents that this is love and not to fearful for an heir to a Dukedom!?
But when the investigator crashes her would be 6 attempt is all hope gone?
Read this delightful romp of love and triumph over impossible odds and circumstances! Can’t wait to read the next one!
After all Edward has siblings! Bravo
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased opinion!
We have Edward Brelsford, the Marquess of Lockhaven, totally adverse to matrimony and normally runs in the opposite direction! He did until he dumps his dessert on one Mrs Selena Dampierre Fiorentino Albescu MacLauren née Griffiths!
One look into her blue eyes and Edward was a goner! But after each encounter Selena literally runs from him! The third time is the charm after the third run away she agrees to give him a chance!
These two have off the chart chemistry! But Selena past has secrets some hilarious but nonetheless they exist!
She has met the one man in possibly the world undaunted by her past and title of Lady Death! But can she convince his parents that this is love and not to fearful for an heir to a Dukedom!?
But when the investigator crashes her would be 6 attempt is all hope gone?
Read this delightful romp of love and triumph over impossible odds and circumstances! Can’t wait to read the next one!
After all Edward has siblings! Bravo
I received an ARC copy for my unbiased opinion!
December 30, 2025
The Marquess Married a Murderess is a fun and cute Regency romance from Michelle McLean, and the start of a new series.
This book was inspired by the 90's romcom So I Married an Axe Murderer and it was really flipping delightful. I read it in two sittings that just so happened to be almost two months apart.
(I got REALLY busy in November and my brain did NOT want to focus on ebooks for a time, but I inhaled the final 84% of this book in one day while recuperating from a headache.)
Since this is called the Brelsford Brothers series, I hope Edward's best friend is considered his spiritual brother. In the epilogue, we get a glimpse at his wedding to a woman "he didn't see coming," and I need to read about it.
I received a complimentary review copy from NetGalley and the author. All opinions contained herein are my own.
If you want to see more from me, check out my blog, Bookstagram, TheStoryGraph, or Bluesky.
This book was inspired by the 90's romcom So I Married an Axe Murderer and it was really flipping delightful. I read it in two sittings that just so happened to be almost two months apart.
(I got REALLY busy in November and my brain did NOT want to focus on ebooks for a time, but I inhaled the final 84% of this book in one day while recuperating from a headache.)
Since this is called the Brelsford Brothers series, I hope Edward's best friend is considered his spiritual brother. In the epilogue, we get a glimpse at his wedding to a woman "he didn't see coming," and I need to read about it.
I received a complimentary review copy from NetGalley and the author. All opinions contained herein are my own.
If you want to see more from me, check out my blog, Bookstagram, TheStoryGraph, or Bluesky.
October 19, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! Edward and Selena had great character development and I loved that they each had a very supportive best friend (who listened to them, teased them, and helped them make tough decisions). Their love story seemed to progress a little too quickly - there were short chats, followed by some make-out sessions, but it seemed to be in line with the overall story.
Overall, this was a good book and I’m looking forward to any other books in this series and what happens next! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review.
Overall, this was a good book and I’m looking forward to any other books in this series and what happens next! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this free advanced copy - this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 7, 2025
This story is inspired by So I married an Axe murderer which I remember really loving in the 90s (I need to see if I can watch this somewhere). For some reason though, I just had a hard time feeling engaged. Both characters were fine but neither really pulled me in and made me care. His best friend was actually my favorite character. He was funny and charming.
I did like that she told him about her past (it happens pretty far in but she is honest before he is fully told her history). But I still couldn't really stay engaged. I am sad about this one but so many others seemed to really like it so it might be a me problem.
I did like that she told him about her past (it happens pretty far in but she is honest before he is fully told her history). But I still couldn't really stay engaged. I am sad about this one but so many others seemed to really like it so it might be a me problem.
October 20, 2025
A delightful romcom.
Despite being drawn towards Lord Lockhaven, Selena MacLaren is afraid to fall for him. Her past bad luck had made her determined to never remarry and so she does everything she can to avoid him. Edward on the other hand is bemused, no woman has ever run from him before, and did she really hide behind drapes one time? Despite the underlying seriousness of the past this was a fun story with likeable characters
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Despite being drawn towards Lord Lockhaven, Selena MacLaren is afraid to fall for him. Her past bad luck had made her determined to never remarry and so she does everything she can to avoid him. Edward on the other hand is bemused, no woman has ever run from him before, and did she really hide behind drapes one time? Despite the underlying seriousness of the past this was a fun story with likeable characters
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 31, 2025
Selena is the unluckiest woman ever when it comes to marriage, with four deceased husbands and one groom who jilted her at the altar. She’s swearing off marriage for now, even as she’s re-entering society. She quickly catches the attention of Edward, who originally had no designs on marriage, but something about Selena intrigues him. (Probably her reluctance to dally with him and her penchant for running away). It’s a series of pursuits and mishaps until he finally convinces her to give him a chance.
December 21, 2025
When Edward Brelsford, the Marquess of Lockhaven sees Selena MacLaren he knows he must meet her, but when he does he dumps his dessert down her dress and she flees. After that, everytime he sees he she flees and even hides. There is just something about her that Edward can't resist. Even the rumors of her killing several husbands does not deter him. Selena is attracted to Edward, but she is so afraid of her "curse" that causes all her husbands to die, that she is afraid to get involved again.
I enjoyed this humorous story and their misadventures.
I enjoyed this humorous story and their misadventures.
November 13, 2025
A cute story about a woman who's already lost four husbands, and a fifth who doesn't believe in curses! Selena feels like she is cursed because so many of her former husbands have died. Edward ignores the gossip about her and really gets to know her. I will add that Edward is hot. A lot of supporting side characters in this book too. I look forward to the next book!
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
November 3, 2025
A very amusing historical romance. Our heroine must be the unluckiest character I've read about so far. I can relate to the fits of giggles during the wedding. My husband and I did that , obviously not for the same reason.
Our brave, (maybe foolish) hero definitely let his heart rule his head.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this.
Great fun.
Our brave, (maybe foolish) hero definitely let his heart rule his head.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this.
Great fun.
December 20, 2025
What a cute book! Funny and tender and steamy and simply beautiful! I really loved both main characters and also the bunch of side characters that enlivened the story. Poor Selena was so unlucky that I didn’t know whether to laugh or cry at her predicament, but I really loved that Edward believed in her and was willing to risk it all for her love. Thoroughly enjoyable!
January 5, 2026
I really enjoyed this book! Edward and Selena had great character development, and I loved that they each had a very supportive best friend (who listened to them, teased them, and helped them make tough decisions). Overall, this was a good book, and I’m looking forward to any other books in this series and what happens next!
November 14, 2025
The first of a series about a family of brother. A series about a family isn't new yet this series has added a bit of a spin to the standard plot line. A black widow!! Or is she!!! I fully enjoyed this story and the characters. I'm excited to read the entire series.
November 10, 2025
Ugh I did not like this. Very pointless and silly
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews