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Daughters of Genius Society #1
A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile
Ambulatory wheelchair user Margaret Kingsley secretly crafts gadgets for the Daughters of Genius Society, a covert team of lady inspectors disguised as harmless bluestocking spinsters. While her fellow inspectors gallivant about London solving crimes, Margaret has been perfectly content assisting from the sidelines--until her expertise is needed to infiltrate the domain of London's most prolific inventor, Alvan T. Harrison.
Charles Noble sacrificed his career as a musician to support his family after his father's stroke. Now he balances ledgers as a secretary by day and tends his disabled father by night, until taking a temporary job as event coordinator for a famous inventor commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. As strange occurrences surface, Charles's event planning collides with Margaret's case, and the pair must unravel a plot of sabotage against the inventor's legacy while also investigating the sparks of attraction between them.
Little Women meets Inspector Gadget in Angela Bell's witty romp of brilliant women, whimsical gadgetry, and sweet romance set in the Victorian era.
Charles Noble sacrificed his career as a musician to support his family after his father's stroke. Now he balances ledgers as a secretary by day and tends his disabled father by night, until taking a temporary job as event coordinator for a famous inventor commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. As strange occurrences surface, Charles's event planning collides with Margaret's case, and the pair must unravel a plot of sabotage against the inventor's legacy while also investigating the sparks of attraction between them.
Little Women meets Inspector Gadget in Angela Bell's witty romp of brilliant women, whimsical gadgetry, and sweet romance set in the Victorian era.
336 pages, Paperback
First published July 7, 2026
About the author
Angela Bell
5 books435 followersAngela Bell is a twenty-first-century lady with nineteenth-century sensibilities, and she resides with her charming Lhasa Apso pup, Mr. Bingley Crosby. One might categorize her books as historical romance, but Angela likes to describe them as “A Cuppa Victorian Whimsy” because it sounds so much more poetical. Whenever you need a respite from the harried hustle of daily life, you’re welcome to visit her parlor at AuthorAngelaBell.com, where she can be found waiting with a pot of tea and a great book.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 7, 2026
4 stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Historical Fiction with Whimsical/Fantasy elements
About this book:
“Ambulatory wheelchair user Margaret Kingsley secretly crafts gadgets for the Daughters of Genius Society, a covert team of lady inspectors disguised as harmless bluestocking spinsters. While her fellow inspectors gallivant about London solving crimes, Margaret has been perfectly content assisting from the sidelines--until her expertise is needed to infiltrate the domain of London's most prolific inventor, Alvan T. Harrison.
Charles Noble sacrificed his career as a musician to support his family after his father's stroke. Now he balances ledgers as a secretary by day and tends his disabled father by night, until taking a temporary job as event coordinator for a famous inventor commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. As strange occurrences surface, Charles's event planning collides with Margaret's case, and the pair must unravel a plot of sabotage against the inventor's legacy while also investigating the sparks of attraction between them.”
Series: A spin-off/sequel to “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure”; Also considered to be Book #1 in its own series, “Daughters of Genius Society”.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are mentioned & thought over; Prayers & Thanking God; Praising God through hymns and worship; Talks about God, Him being our Sustainer, & giving Him our pain; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God, His creation, & Him sustaining us; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of hymns & worshiping God; A couple mentions of a meeting being an “occurrence of providential orchestration”; A mention of the rapture;
*Note: Mentions of Cupid’s arrow making someone smitten; A mention of being lucky.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘balderdash’, a ‘by jove’, a ‘drat’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘gah’, a ‘pah’, a ‘shoot’, a ‘stars above’, a ‘what in blazes’, two ‘botheration’s, two forms of ‘dashed/dash it all’, two ‘idiot’s, two ’shut up’s, and nine ‘stupid’s; A mention of a curse (said, not written); Margaret exclaims “rusted cogs” (x4) and “great gadgets” (x17); Charles often exclaims composers’ names in place of typical phrases (such as “Bach and Beethoven”, “Hummel help me”, “Great Gustav Mahler”, and “what in the Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart”); Side characters say exclamations based off of their interests (such as a woman who likes plants saying “oh my morels” and “cremini”; Margaret also says ‘what in the ever-loving kitty cats’); Charles and his brother call each other names when bantering (teasing, not mean-spirited); When undercover, Margaret does lie or withhold the truth a few times; Eye rolling; Being attacked, Fighting, Injuries, & Pain (including pain due to chronic pain and old injuries; up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths & grief; Mentions of wars, battles, deaths, & grief for fallen friends (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a father having a stroke & his injuries (including being paralyzed on one side and losing the ability to speak; Charles’ father); Mentions of an accident, serve injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of a woman being committed to an asylum by her husband & others planning to rescue her; Mentions of kidnappings/abductions & hostages; Mentions of thefts, thieves, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of injured animals; A few mentions of arrests & prison; A few mentions of embezzlement; A few mentions of eavesdropping; A couple mentions of lies & lying; A couple mentions of alcohol & drinking; A mention of a drunk pirate; A mention of cigars; A mention of throwing up;
*Note: A panic attack and unable to breath or focus (Charles, up to semi-detailed); Due to an accident in her childhood, Margaret is afflicted with chronic pain and feels like a burden on her parents (often thinking of herself as a burden, useless, and deals with guilt over it all, but tries not to allow her thoughts to wallow in bitterness); *Spoiler* ; Margaret dislikes being called or treated as an “invalid” or a “cripple”; Margaret recalls hurtful words from a childhood friend’s mother about her injury and hasn’t allowed any of her new friends to find out the extent of her pain since then (as she is concerned that they would find her eventually leave her as well if they knew); Margaret overhears two young boys talking about her and her disability like she can’t hear them, which hurts her; Mentions of musicians/composers (Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Debussy, Franz Listz, Gilbert and Sullivan, Gustav Mahler, Handel, Haydn, Hector Berlioz, Herman Bemberg, Hummel, Humperdinck, Johann Pachelbel, Joseph Bologne, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Paganini, Richard Wagner, Scarlatti, Schubert, Spafford, Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, Vivaldi, & Wette); Mentions of and references to different authors & fictional characters (Jane Austen, Pepper Basham, Toni Shiloh, Wilkie Collins, Jaime Jo Wright, Edgar Allen Poe, Jules Verne, Sharon Hinck, & Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Elizabeth Gaskell, & Louisa May Alcott); A few mentions of ballets (Swan Lake); A few mentions of panic attacks; A couple mentions of miscarriages and a couple suffering losses; A mention of an artist (Henriëtte Ronner-Knip); A mention of some men believing that the female mind is “incapable” of inventing something.
Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, a hand/fingers kiss, a forehead kiss, and two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Staring at lips (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Hand holding, Flutters, Nearness, & Smelling (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Blushes, Flirting, & Winks; Noticing & Staring (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of blushes & winks; A few mentions of chaperones; A couple mentions of a married couple kissing; A mention of flirting; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Margaret thinks of herself as a “damaged good” that no man would care to buy (because of her injury); A few mentions of a woman possibly not being able to have biological children due to an injury (*Spoiler* ); A mention of buxom woman.
-Margaret Kingsley, age 30
-Charles Noble, age 30
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1895-1896
336 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
After reading “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” twice and greatly enjoying it both times, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the next book by Angela Bell. The blurb and cover for this book had me so curious and so excited about meeting Margaret. Which was multiplied by about a hundred when I started reading and found out that Margaret is the daughter of Clara and Theodore from this first book! This may have been obvious to some astute readers if you notice her last name, I was taken by surprise and so happy about it! It was so wonderful to see those two again as they are one of my favorite couples of all-time and it was so special to meet their daughter.
In fact, there were some Easter Eggs from not only that book but other clever hints (my favorite was “The Aristocats” nod!) that made me tickled pink while reading and smile at finding them!
Margaret was a lovely girl who I wish I could give a big (but gentle) hug to; due to her chronic pain, she faces challenges that many wouldn’t think twice about completing. Washing her face, getting dress, and daily tasks can be too much and require assistance from family members. I do not have personal experience in chronic pain, but I have dear family and friends who do, and this book helped me understand a little bit more of some of the things they have to handle on a daily basis. Despite all of this, Margaret is a dear. Her faith was the best—okay, if I’m being fully honest, second best part of this book because I adored seeing Clara and Theodore the most—part of this book because of how she still worships the Lord through her pain and weakness. She could have easily continued to be mad at God for the accident that stole her mobility and health, but she praises Him through it and I just loved that major element to this book. So, maybe seeing my favorite couples again and the faith content are tied overall for my favorite thing about this book. 😉
Margaret’s group of friends reminded me of some friend groups from Jen Turano’s books—particularly “The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency” series. I did have to make use of the search feature a few times to keep them all straight, which helped a lot in that regard.
Our Male Main Character, Charles, was also a dear. He turned away from his promising music career to take care of his family after his father’s stroke. I personally related to his story a little more after taking care of my mother and loved seeing the parts of him with his family. I understood his anxiety and introvert nature so well and thought him and Margaret were wonderful for each other. He was completely like a smitten schoolboy over Margaret. This is absolutely not a complaint because I love it when the Male Main Character is smitten with his girl. That will always be a favorite trope of mine, especially with the two of them being friends first before being anything more. He instantly fell for her, but it felt so sweet and precious. One thing I would have liked to see more of would have been more faith content and conversations in his parts, but overall, I great appreciated that both main characters had strong faiths in Jesus Christ. That’s not always super common in Christian Fiction books and stands out to me when I read a book with both main characters/both halves of the couple having a faith—Margaret and Charles were great in this regard.
“A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile” felt a little more like a fantastical historical book than I would say “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” did was due to all of Margaret’s inventions. While that one had a flying machine that looked like a giant owl, this book had more steam-powered and unique products. It’s not purely historical because of these clever ideas and items, so go into this story expecting some interesting inventions.
The verdict? Precious. Heartwarming. I want a group hug with all of these characters. While I don’t think any spin-off book can top the original book, this was a lovely companion story with lovable characters. I look forward to seeing what will happen next in this series! I also plan to listen to the audiobook version of this sequel with my mom as she greatly enjoyed “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” when we listened to it together last year. I look forward to revisiting this book and all the characters soon!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
About this book:
“Ambulatory wheelchair user Margaret Kingsley secretly crafts gadgets for the Daughters of Genius Society, a covert team of lady inspectors disguised as harmless bluestocking spinsters. While her fellow inspectors gallivant about London solving crimes, Margaret has been perfectly content assisting from the sidelines--until her expertise is needed to infiltrate the domain of London's most prolific inventor, Alvan T. Harrison.
Charles Noble sacrificed his career as a musician to support his family after his father's stroke. Now he balances ledgers as a secretary by day and tends his disabled father by night, until taking a temporary job as event coordinator for a famous inventor commemorating the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. As strange occurrences surface, Charles's event planning collides with Margaret's case, and the pair must unravel a plot of sabotage against the inventor's legacy while also investigating the sparks of attraction between them.”
Series: A spin-off/sequel to “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure”; Also considered to be Book #1 in its own series, “Daughters of Genius Society”.
Spiritual Content- A few Scriptures are mentioned & thought over; Prayers & Thanking God; Praising God through hymns and worship; Talks about God, Him being our Sustainer, & giving Him our pain; ‘H’s are capital when referring to God; Mentions of God, His creation, & Him sustaining us; Mentions of prayers, praying, & thanking God; Mentions of hymns & worshiping God; A couple mentions of a meeting being an “occurrence of providential orchestration”; A mention of the rapture;
*Note: Mentions of Cupid’s arrow making someone smitten; A mention of being lucky.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘balderdash’, a ‘by jove’, a ‘drat’, a ‘dumb’, a ‘gah’, a ‘pah’, a ‘shoot’, a ‘stars above’, a ‘what in blazes’, two ‘botheration’s, two forms of ‘dashed/dash it all’, two ‘idiot’s, two ’shut up’s, and nine ‘stupid’s; A mention of a curse (said, not written); Margaret exclaims “rusted cogs” (x4) and “great gadgets” (x17); Charles often exclaims composers’ names in place of typical phrases (such as “Bach and Beethoven”, “Hummel help me”, “Great Gustav Mahler”, and “what in the Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart”); Side characters say exclamations based off of their interests (such as a woman who likes plants saying “oh my morels” and “cremini”; Margaret also says ‘what in the ever-loving kitty cats’); Charles and his brother call each other names when bantering (teasing, not mean-spirited); When undercover, Margaret does lie or withhold the truth a few times; Eye rolling; Being attacked, Fighting, Injuries, & Pain (including pain due to chronic pain and old injuries; up to semi-detailed); Mentions of deaths & grief; Mentions of wars, battles, deaths, & grief for fallen friends (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of a father having a stroke & his injuries (including being paralyzed on one side and losing the ability to speak; Charles’ father); Mentions of an accident, serve injuries, pain, & blood/bleeding; Mentions of a woman being committed to an asylum by her husband & others planning to rescue her; Mentions of kidnappings/abductions & hostages; Mentions of thefts, thieves, stealing, & stolen items; Mentions of threats & blackmail; Mentions of gossip & rumors; Mentions of injured animals; A few mentions of arrests & prison; A few mentions of embezzlement; A few mentions of eavesdropping; A couple mentions of lies & lying; A couple mentions of alcohol & drinking; A mention of a drunk pirate; A mention of cigars; A mention of throwing up;
*Note: A panic attack and unable to breath or focus (Charles, up to semi-detailed); Due to an accident in her childhood, Margaret is afflicted with chronic pain and feels like a burden on her parents (often thinking of herself as a burden, useless, and deals with guilt over it all, but tries not to allow her thoughts to wallow in bitterness); *Spoiler* ; Margaret dislikes being called or treated as an “invalid” or a “cripple”; Margaret recalls hurtful words from a childhood friend’s mother about her injury and hasn’t allowed any of her new friends to find out the extent of her pain since then (as she is concerned that they would find her eventually leave her as well if they knew); Margaret overhears two young boys talking about her and her disability like she can’t hear them, which hurts her; Mentions of musicians/composers (Bach, Beethoven, Brahms, Debussy, Franz Listz, Gilbert and Sullivan, Gustav Mahler, Handel, Haydn, Hector Berlioz, Herman Bemberg, Hummel, Humperdinck, Johann Pachelbel, Joseph Bologne, Mendelssohn, Mozart, Paganini, Richard Wagner, Scarlatti, Schubert, Spafford, Strauss, Tchaikovsky, Verdi, Vivaldi, & Wette); Mentions of and references to different authors & fictional characters (Jane Austen, Pepper Basham, Toni Shiloh, Wilkie Collins, Jaime Jo Wright, Edgar Allen Poe, Jules Verne, Sharon Hinck, & Charles Dickens, Mark Twain, Elizabeth Gaskell, & Louisa May Alcott); A few mentions of ballets (Swan Lake); A few mentions of panic attacks; A couple mentions of miscarriages and a couple suffering losses; A mention of an artist (Henriëtte Ronner-Knip); A mention of some men believing that the female mind is “incapable” of inventing something.
Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, a hand/fingers kiss, a forehead kiss, and two barely-above-not-detailed kisses; Staring at lips (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Hand holding, Flutters, Nearness, & Smelling (border-line barely-above-not-detailed // semi-detailed); Blushes, Flirting, & Winks; Noticing & Staring (barely-above-not-detailed); Mentions of blushes & winks; A few mentions of chaperones; A couple mentions of a married couple kissing; A mention of flirting; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Margaret thinks of herself as a “damaged good” that no man would care to buy (because of her injury); A few mentions of a woman possibly not being able to have biological children due to an injury (*Spoiler* ); A mention of buxom woman.
-Margaret Kingsley, age 30
-Charles Noble, age 30
P.O.V. switches between them
Set in 1895-1896
336 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- Two Stars
Early High School Teens- Three Stars
Older High School Teens- Four Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
After reading “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” twice and greatly enjoying it both times, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the next book by Angela Bell. The blurb and cover for this book had me so curious and so excited about meeting Margaret. Which was multiplied by about a hundred when I started reading and found out that Margaret is the daughter of Clara and Theodore from this first book! This may have been obvious to some astute readers if you notice her last name, I was taken by surprise and so happy about it! It was so wonderful to see those two again as they are one of my favorite couples of all-time and it was so special to meet their daughter.
In fact, there were some Easter Eggs from not only that book but other clever hints (my favorite was “The Aristocats” nod!) that made me tickled pink while reading and smile at finding them!
Margaret was a lovely girl who I wish I could give a big (but gentle) hug to; due to her chronic pain, she faces challenges that many wouldn’t think twice about completing. Washing her face, getting dress, and daily tasks can be too much and require assistance from family members. I do not have personal experience in chronic pain, but I have dear family and friends who do, and this book helped me understand a little bit more of some of the things they have to handle on a daily basis. Despite all of this, Margaret is a dear. Her faith was the best—okay, if I’m being fully honest, second best part of this book because I adored seeing Clara and Theodore the most—part of this book because of how she still worships the Lord through her pain and weakness. She could have easily continued to be mad at God for the accident that stole her mobility and health, but she praises Him through it and I just loved that major element to this book. So, maybe seeing my favorite couples again and the faith content are tied overall for my favorite thing about this book. 😉
Margaret’s group of friends reminded me of some friend groups from Jen Turano’s books—particularly “The Bleeker Street Inquiry Agency” series. I did have to make use of the search feature a few times to keep them all straight, which helped a lot in that regard.
Our Male Main Character, Charles, was also a dear. He turned away from his promising music career to take care of his family after his father’s stroke. I personally related to his story a little more after taking care of my mother and loved seeing the parts of him with his family. I understood his anxiety and introvert nature so well and thought him and Margaret were wonderful for each other. He was completely like a smitten schoolboy over Margaret. This is absolutely not a complaint because I love it when the Male Main Character is smitten with his girl. That will always be a favorite trope of mine, especially with the two of them being friends first before being anything more. He instantly fell for her, but it felt so sweet and precious. One thing I would have liked to see more of would have been more faith content and conversations in his parts, but overall, I great appreciated that both main characters had strong faiths in Jesus Christ. That’s not always super common in Christian Fiction books and stands out to me when I read a book with both main characters/both halves of the couple having a faith—Margaret and Charles were great in this regard.
“A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile” felt a little more like a fantastical historical book than I would say “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” did was due to all of Margaret’s inventions. While that one had a flying machine that looked like a giant owl, this book had more steam-powered and unique products. It’s not purely historical because of these clever ideas and items, so go into this story expecting some interesting inventions.
The verdict? Precious. Heartwarming. I want a group hug with all of these characters. While I don’t think any spin-off book can top the original book, this was a lovely companion story with lovable characters. I look forward to seeing what will happen next in this series! I also plan to listen to the audiobook version of this sequel with my mom as she greatly enjoyed “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” when we listened to it together last year. I look forward to revisiting this book and all the characters soon!
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
*I received this book for free from the Author for this honest review.
June 22, 2026
A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile is a whimsical delight! I loved this story! I love how this author writes her own fun personality into her stories! As you read you can’t help but have a smile on your face. This story is set in the 1890s in London. It is a combination of Little Women and Inspector Gadget. Which doesn’t sound like it would work but it totally does! Margaret is wheelchair bound after an accident with one her Father’s inventions. By the way Margaret’s parents’ story is in “A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure” I recommend reading that one as well. Margaret also makes all kinds of gadgets and is an inspector. I especially loved what she made her wheelchair able to do. Charles is a musician who put his career on hold to care for his family after his father had a stroke. Charles and Margaret meet while Margaret is on a case and they end up working together. I loved these two, they are adorable and so sweet! Both main characters have their struggles that they have to work through. I also liked the other members of the lady inspectors group. Great Christian content throughout. I most definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
July 7, 2026
A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile is an absolutely delightful story. Drawing inspiration from Little Women, Inspector Gadget, and Victorian England, it is also something uniquely and wonderfully its own. Bell’s sophomore novel is funny, heartfelt, faith-filled, and a joy from start to finish. It also delivers some wonderful disability representation that is going to provide solace and soothing affirmation to those struggling with chronic pain and severe anxiety.
Margaret Kingsley is an inventor for a secret society of lady inspectors: Daughters of Genius Society, or D.O.G.S. for short. She is comfortable in her spinsterhood, though that comfort doesn’t extend to her own body. After surviving an accident that left her riddled with disabling chronic pain and reliant on a wheelchair the majority of the time, Margaret’s life has never been normal. She has to navigate life through the veil of her pain, determining what she has the energy and ability to accomplish each day. She knows that she’ll never marry, and will always have to be cared for by her parents, but she’s thankful to have found purpose and a group of fellow lady inspectors who are more like sisters than friends. Between the family, the purpose, the friendships, her deep relationship with God and the solace she finds in music, she feels that she has much to be thankful for.
Then enters Charles Noble, former concert pianist who gave up his music career to help care for his father after a stroke debilitated him. Charles deals with extreme anxiety and panic attacks, which he suppresses as he's not the one dealing with tangible, physical suffering. Now serving as a secretary in a law office, Charles is offered a temporary job as an event planner for London’s most famous inventor as he celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. It’s through this job that Charles crosses paths with Margaret, with whom he immediately falls head over heels in love. When she recruits him to aid in a mission involving this famed inventor and purloined patents, he jumps at the opportunity to spend more time with her.
Both main characters are living with the fallout of past tragedies, as well as with guilt over the weight of that fallout pressing down those they love most. He sees her in a way no man has ever seen her. And she understands his anxiety in a way that even he has never grasped. God uses them to bring solace to each other in some truly beautiful ways.
I related so much to Margaret's struggles with chronic pain. While I'm currently in a stage of life where my own is more manageable, I remember having many of those same functionality struggles in the past. It's so hard to look perfectly healthy while being riddled with and debilitated by pain that the world cannot see. It makes you feel like a fraud, to be an invalid in a way that is not easily observable. And no one judges you for it more harshly than you judge yourself. The guilt that comes with feeling as though you're inconveniencing and letting down the people in your life is almost as intolerable as the pain. I'm so incredibly grateful to be in a stage of life where my own chronic pain is not only manageable, but even dormant most days. However, if and when that pain returns with any vengeance, I can see myself reaching for this book when I'm seeking solace, when it would comfort and soothe to feel understood and not alone in the suffering.
This is a wonderful story, packed to the brim with charm and faith and compassionate depictions of living with chronic pain. Not only did I enjoy my time with it immensely, I’m thankful for the ways it made me feel seen, affirmed, comforted, and understood. While the romance and the banter, the sisterhood and the adventure were all delightful, it is the strong core of faith and that depiction of chronic pain that will have me returning to this book when life gets hard. I can’t recommend it—or its predecessor, A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure—highly enough. And I can’t wait to read more stories about the lady inspectors of the Daughters of Genius Society!
Margaret Kingsley is an inventor for a secret society of lady inspectors: Daughters of Genius Society, or D.O.G.S. for short. She is comfortable in her spinsterhood, though that comfort doesn’t extend to her own body. After surviving an accident that left her riddled with disabling chronic pain and reliant on a wheelchair the majority of the time, Margaret’s life has never been normal. She has to navigate life through the veil of her pain, determining what she has the energy and ability to accomplish each day. She knows that she’ll never marry, and will always have to be cared for by her parents, but she’s thankful to have found purpose and a group of fellow lady inspectors who are more like sisters than friends. Between the family, the purpose, the friendships, her deep relationship with God and the solace she finds in music, she feels that she has much to be thankful for.
Then enters Charles Noble, former concert pianist who gave up his music career to help care for his father after a stroke debilitated him. Charles deals with extreme anxiety and panic attacks, which he suppresses as he's not the one dealing with tangible, physical suffering. Now serving as a secretary in a law office, Charles is offered a temporary job as an event planner for London’s most famous inventor as he celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of his mechanical empire. It’s through this job that Charles crosses paths with Margaret, with whom he immediately falls head over heels in love. When she recruits him to aid in a mission involving this famed inventor and purloined patents, he jumps at the opportunity to spend more time with her.
Both main characters are living with the fallout of past tragedies, as well as with guilt over the weight of that fallout pressing down those they love most. He sees her in a way no man has ever seen her. And she understands his anxiety in a way that even he has never grasped. God uses them to bring solace to each other in some truly beautiful ways.
I related so much to Margaret's struggles with chronic pain. While I'm currently in a stage of life where my own is more manageable, I remember having many of those same functionality struggles in the past. It's so hard to look perfectly healthy while being riddled with and debilitated by pain that the world cannot see. It makes you feel like a fraud, to be an invalid in a way that is not easily observable. And no one judges you for it more harshly than you judge yourself. The guilt that comes with feeling as though you're inconveniencing and letting down the people in your life is almost as intolerable as the pain. I'm so incredibly grateful to be in a stage of life where my own chronic pain is not only manageable, but even dormant most days. However, if and when that pain returns with any vengeance, I can see myself reaching for this book when I'm seeking solace, when it would comfort and soothe to feel understood and not alone in the suffering.
This is a wonderful story, packed to the brim with charm and faith and compassionate depictions of living with chronic pain. Not only did I enjoy my time with it immensely, I’m thankful for the ways it made me feel seen, affirmed, comforted, and understood. While the romance and the banter, the sisterhood and the adventure were all delightful, it is the strong core of faith and that depiction of chronic pain that will have me returning to this book when life gets hard. I can’t recommend it—or its predecessor, A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure—highly enough. And I can’t wait to read more stories about the lady inspectors of the Daughters of Genius Society!
July 7, 2026
“For only when we rely on God as our sustainer is it possible to shake and yet not be shaken.”
I went in with high expectations, and let me tell you, it exceeded every single one! I adored every page and every moment! 🥰
⚙️ Set in Victorian London, this whimsical story follows Margaret Kingsley, an ambulatory wheelchair user who secretly creates gadgets for the Daughters of Genius Society—a group of daring lady inspectors. When a mission involving London’s most prolific inventor pulls her from the sidelines and into fieldwork,
she crosses paths with Charles Noble, a musician who set aside his career to support his family following his father’s stroke. Now, he finds himself working temporarily for a famous inventor, where he finds himself pulled into Margaret's case.
⚙️ This story is simply wonderful! I loved everything about it and especially the characters. It was so fun how each of the lady inspectors, is inspired by real historical figures from the Victorian era. Including the lovely Margaret who is based on an actual Victorian inventor. And Charles? He was just the sweetest hero!
I really appreciated how Angela authentically captured Margaret’s experiences with chronic pain and Charles's anxiety. Their struggles were portrayed with such empathy that anyone dealing with chronic pain or an invisible illness will feel truly seen in this story. The characters reminded me time and time again of how God is our sustainer in every hardship. 🥹💕
Angela’s whimsical writing style is a delight, and the plot is filled with twists and mysteries! The climax felt like a moment from a Jules Verne adventure, and I absolutely loved it! I could go on and on about this book—I just adored it! It's definitely one of my favorite reads of the year!
The Vibes
⚙️ Victorian whimsy
💕 Cute cats
⚙️ Disney references 🥀✨
💕 Disability and Anxiety Rep
⚙️ He falls first
💕 Strong family themes
⚙️ Super sweet and clean romance
💕 Amazing faith content
I received a gifted copy of this book from the author. My review reflects my honest opinion.
July 7, 2026
👩🦼➡️ Book Review 👩🦼➡️
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the #gifted book!*
Title: A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile
Author: Angela Bell
Genre: Historical Fiction
Synopsis: As an ambulatory wheelchair user, Margaret Kingsley often feels like a burden, but she finds some solace in her role in the Daughters of Genius Society—a group of spinsters solving crime in their spare time. Her job is the resident tinkerer, and she loves working the gadgets behind the scenes. Charles Noble’s work at an inventor’s company and his father’s caretaker consume his time, but not so much that he doesn’t notice the beautiful young woman coming to observe the patents. As their work collides and a stolen invention is found, Charles and Margaret are forced to work together to uncover the strange happenings in the company and discover their feelings for each other.
Analysis: When I first read A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures last year, it was a book I didn’t know I was missing. I couldn’t wait to see what Angela would write next! And her second full-length novel delivers all the fun and whimsy I loved plus the depth I didn’t know I needed. Angela Bell’s books are such a good unique lane in Christian fiction! And yes, they’re very Christian, but the faith threads are woven into the characters themselves and it feels so natural. This book has humor, mystery, adventure, and romance all wrapped up in one. And it deals with some lesser seen topics such as chronic pain and disability. Readers will feel seen and gain a new level of understanding. I absolutely loved this novel and again I can’t wait to see what Angela writes next!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the #gifted book!*
Title: A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile
Author: Angela Bell
Genre: Historical Fiction
Synopsis: As an ambulatory wheelchair user, Margaret Kingsley often feels like a burden, but she finds some solace in her role in the Daughters of Genius Society—a group of spinsters solving crime in their spare time. Her job is the resident tinkerer, and she loves working the gadgets behind the scenes. Charles Noble’s work at an inventor’s company and his father’s caretaker consume his time, but not so much that he doesn’t notice the beautiful young woman coming to observe the patents. As their work collides and a stolen invention is found, Charles and Margaret are forced to work together to uncover the strange happenings in the company and discover their feelings for each other.
Analysis: When I first read A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventures last year, it was a book I didn’t know I was missing. I couldn’t wait to see what Angela would write next! And her second full-length novel delivers all the fun and whimsy I loved plus the depth I didn’t know I needed. Angela Bell’s books are such a good unique lane in Christian fiction! And yes, they’re very Christian, but the faith threads are woven into the characters themselves and it feels so natural. This book has humor, mystery, adventure, and romance all wrapped up in one. And it deals with some lesser seen topics such as chronic pain and disability. Readers will feel seen and gain a new level of understanding. I absolutely loved this novel and again I can’t wait to see what Angela writes next!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 9, 2026
Okay so this is my favorite book. Where do I even start.
The historical research required for the interworkings of this story are alone appalling. The attention to detail Miss Angela gives to even the smallest of Easter eggs made me giggle and tear up and swoon all at once. The historian in me is on cloud nine. I want to read it again just to see what Easter eggs I missed.
The characters. Oh my word, the characters. If you know, you know. That’s all I’ll say.
This is a love letter to those of us with visible and invisible disadvantages and disabilities. My heart healed a little bit through this story.
Angela Bell writes in such a way that I feel like I’m reading a classic. Her love of classics makes her writing a tribute to them. And I believe that these books should be read by anyone and everyone looking for a little whimsy and love a good callback.
Praise the Lord for His bestowal of gifts like the one He has given Miss Bell. Never stop writing, dear friend. Your gift is beautiful!
The historical research required for the interworkings of this story are alone appalling. The attention to detail Miss Angela gives to even the smallest of Easter eggs made me giggle and tear up and swoon all at once. The historian in me is on cloud nine. I want to read it again just to see what Easter eggs I missed.
The characters. Oh my word, the characters. If you know, you know. That’s all I’ll say.
This is a love letter to those of us with visible and invisible disadvantages and disabilities. My heart healed a little bit through this story.
Angela Bell writes in such a way that I feel like I’m reading a classic. Her love of classics makes her writing a tribute to them. And I believe that these books should be read by anyone and everyone looking for a little whimsy and love a good callback.
Praise the Lord for His bestowal of gifts like the one He has given Miss Bell. Never stop writing, dear friend. Your gift is beautiful!
Did Not Finish
June 4, 2026•𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰•
{𝑨 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚’𝒔 𝑯𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝑮𝒂𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒆}
⚙️ Release Date: July 7, 2026 ⚙️
.
.
.
I’ve been trying to do better at not forcing myself to read things I don’t enjoy, so in that spirit, I’m going to be DNFing this book early—only 8% into it. I haven’t read nearly enough to even decide how I really feel about the story or the characters, but I simply CANNOT STAND the writing style. It drives me absolutely bonkers! It was hard enough to get through one chapter, so I can’t imagine trying to read the entire book 🫣
With that being said, I can’t recommend or not recommend this book since I really have no idea how it is. All I know is that I do NOT enjoy the writing style—do with that as you will.
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.
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I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers. All opinions listed are purely my own.
{𝑨 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚’𝒔 𝑯𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝑮𝒂𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒆}
⚙️ Release Date: July 7, 2026 ⚙️
.
.
.
I’ve been trying to do better at not forcing myself to read things I don’t enjoy, so in that spirit, I’m going to be DNFing this book early—only 8% into it. I haven’t read nearly enough to even decide how I really feel about the story or the characters, but I simply CANNOT STAND the writing style. It drives me absolutely bonkers! It was hard enough to get through one chapter, so I can’t imagine trying to read the entire book 🫣
With that being said, I can’t recommend or not recommend this book since I really have no idea how it is. All I know is that I do NOT enjoy the writing style—do with that as you will.
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.
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I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley and Bethany House Publishers. All opinions listed are purely my own.
June 21, 2026
Note: If you haven’t yet read Angela Bell’s debut book A Lady’s Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, I highly recommend it. Although these books can be read as standalone stories, there are character connections that you’ll miss if you haven’t read that book first.
And now, for my review…
A 5⭐️ read for me!
Angela Bell’s characters feel like they are real people. People with struggles, pain, problems, and personalities! I especially love the quirkiness of some of her characters.
In A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile we meet first Margaret and then Charles. I love that the story is written from both characters’ POVs. These two characters’ lives unexpectedly intertwine. As they become acquainted while working together on a project, they begin to trust each other…and each others’ perspective.
This is a sweet story with wonderful characters, an interesting plot that has a couple unexpected twists, and even a little romance.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy no-spice romance, historical fiction with a touch of whimsy, and/or stories that include disability and anxiety represented with care and compassion.
I’m looking forward to getting the paperback I preordered so I can reread this story with sticky tabs in hand to mark all the quotes and scenes I loved!
I received an ebook ARC from the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
And now, for my review…
A 5⭐️ read for me!
Angela Bell’s characters feel like they are real people. People with struggles, pain, problems, and personalities! I especially love the quirkiness of some of her characters.
In A Lady’s Handbook to Gadgets and Guile we meet first Margaret and then Charles. I love that the story is written from both characters’ POVs. These two characters’ lives unexpectedly intertwine. As they become acquainted while working together on a project, they begin to trust each other…and each others’ perspective.
This is a sweet story with wonderful characters, an interesting plot that has a couple unexpected twists, and even a little romance.
I would recommend this book to readers who enjoy no-spice romance, historical fiction with a touch of whimsy, and/or stories that include disability and anxiety represented with care and compassion.
I’m looking forward to getting the paperback I preordered so I can reread this story with sticky tabs in hand to mark all the quotes and scenes I loved!
I received an ebook ARC from the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my honest thoughts about this book.
July 9, 2026
Things I loved that are the complete opposite of mainstream CF:
1: Mystery without murder
2: No SA or attempted SA of main character
3: Characters are more than plot devices
4: Elderly characters are not killed off once they've dispensed their wisdom/served their purpose (see also #3)
5: The villain isn't a scary one dimensional psycho (see also #3)
6: Friendships are developed through the book and don't disappear as soon as the love interest is introduced (see also #3)
7: The MFC isn't selfish and annoying
8: When characters do things that are silly or illogical, it actually makes sense based on their backstory and makes you like them more instead of less
9: No nonsensical big misunderstanding where the MFC loses her ever-living mind on the MMC (thank God)
10: God isn't just a postscript or nauseatingly neat and tidy religiosity; the characters have a breathing relationship with the Lord that embraces questions, struggles, and pain
1: Mystery without murder
2: No SA or attempted SA of main character
3: Characters are more than plot devices
4: Elderly characters are not killed off once they've dispensed their wisdom/served their purpose (see also #3)
5: The villain isn't a scary one dimensional psycho (see also #3)
6: Friendships are developed through the book and don't disappear as soon as the love interest is introduced (see also #3)
7: The MFC isn't selfish and annoying
8: When characters do things that are silly or illogical, it actually makes sense based on their backstory and makes you like them more instead of less
9: No nonsensical big misunderstanding where the MFC loses her ever-living mind on the MMC (thank God)
10: God isn't just a postscript or nauseatingly neat and tidy religiosity; the characters have a breathing relationship with the Lord that embraces questions, struggles, and pain
July 10, 2026
Review coming soon
July 9, 2026
Angela Bell, you did it again! Another beautiful story 🥰 Officially on my list of auto buy authors.
July 10, 2026
I've been anxiously awaiting my most anticipated book of 2026, so naturally when it arrived this week I had to drop all responsibilities and read it post haste. This story had all the feels. Whimsical? Check. Cozy? Check. Deep characters in need of a loving Savior? Check. Nostalgic of Angela's first story? Absolutely! But, don't expect it to mirror it. This story was quite original, though the constant cameos had me smiling. I'm so happy for Margaret to have found love, worth in herself and purpose in Christ and the life she os gifted good or bad, taking our life for what it is, a blessing, is hard at times. I loved the contrast of the two main characters either being taken care of, or being a caretaker. Seeing both POV in a story made it extra deep in contrast and understanding both sides of the coin. The easter eggs in this story were so much fun, especially if you are a 90s kiddo that grew up on walt disney classics.
This story envelopes you in a warm hug, no matter what chapter of life you find yourself in. Can be read as a standalone, but honestly highly recommend reading A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventures first. Makes this story more heartwarming.
This story envelopes you in a warm hug, no matter what chapter of life you find yourself in. Can be read as a standalone, but honestly highly recommend reading A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventures first. Makes this story more heartwarming.
Read
July 1, 2026I really enjoyed this book! It was such a fun mix of mystery, clever inventions, and sweet romance.
Margaret was an amazing heroine, and I loved watching her use her brilliant mind to solve problems. Charles quickly became one of my favorite characters—he was so thoughtful and caring. Their slow-building, he-falls-first romance was absolutely adorable.
The mystery kept me turning the pages, and the disability representation was handled beautifully. If you love historical romance with a little steampunk, strong women, and lovable characters, I definitely recommend this one!
Margaret was an amazing heroine, and I loved watching her use her brilliant mind to solve problems. Charles quickly became one of my favorite characters—he was so thoughtful and caring. Their slow-building, he-falls-first romance was absolutely adorable.
The mystery kept me turning the pages, and the disability representation was handled beautifully. If you love historical romance with a little steampunk, strong women, and lovable characters, I definitely recommend this one!
Did Not Finish
July 11, 2026IM GONNA COME BACK TO THIS BOOK! I just had to DNF rn cause i’m in a slump😭
June 11, 2026
Angela Bell is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Her stories are always wonderfully unique, and settling into one of her books feels like curling up with a cup of tea and knowing you’re in for a steampunk adventure. I know I’ll find thoughtful characters, heart, and a premise unlike anything else on my shelf.
What stood out most to me in this novel was Margaret. As an ambulatory wheelchair user living in Victorian England, her perspective offered representation I don’t often encounter in fiction. As a physical therapist by training, I’ve spent years learning about chronic pain and disability from a clinical perspective, but reading Margaret’s daily experiences brought a different level of understanding and empathy. Angela captures both the challenges and the resilience required to navigate a world not built with accessibility in mind, while never allowing Margaret’s disability to define her entire character.
Add in a secret society of lady inspectors, clever inventions, a mystery full of intrigue, and a sweet romance, and this book delivers a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience. It’s another reminder of why Angela Bell’s books continue to earn a spot on my must-read list.
Read this if you love:
• Strong, intelligent heroines
• Historical mysteries with a touch of romance
• Unique disability representation
• Secret societies and amateur sleuths
• Cozy, heartwarming reads
• Victorian England settings
• Steampunk vibes
• Characters that are deeply human
What stood out most to me in this novel was Margaret. As an ambulatory wheelchair user living in Victorian England, her perspective offered representation I don’t often encounter in fiction. As a physical therapist by training, I’ve spent years learning about chronic pain and disability from a clinical perspective, but reading Margaret’s daily experiences brought a different level of understanding and empathy. Angela captures both the challenges and the resilience required to navigate a world not built with accessibility in mind, while never allowing Margaret’s disability to define her entire character.
Add in a secret society of lady inspectors, clever inventions, a mystery full of intrigue, and a sweet romance, and this book delivers a thoroughly enjoyable reading experience. It’s another reminder of why Angela Bell’s books continue to earn a spot on my must-read list.
Read this if you love:
• Strong, intelligent heroines
• Historical mysteries with a touch of romance
• Unique disability representation
• Secret societies and amateur sleuths
• Cozy, heartwarming reads
• Victorian England settings
• Steampunk vibes
• Characters that are deeply human
July 8, 2026
✨ Thank you Angela for thinking of me & gifting me a copy of your newest book! { all thoughts are my own }
Maggie is not only an inventor in a secret society of beloved “sisters”, but she uses her skill to make fantastical accommodations since she needs the use of her wheeled chair in daily life. Angela did so well at explaining Maggie’s life in a way that was heartfelt and so true to those who deal with chronic illness.
It was like seeing myself in some of the pages which is so neat— especially for a Victorian era book!
Only Angela could combine the two and still make it whimsical.
I enjoyed the many hidden references to other films & characters, also revisiting the original characters from A Lady’s Guide to Marvels & Misadventure was the biggest treat! I highly recommend reading it first to get the full picture of this sweet family.
& Oh Mr. Noble. What shall we say of you?
You anxious gem of a character. While Charles Noble may not have physical disabilities, he struggles with the unknowns of his family since past tragedies still plague his mind, which makes him all the more understanding and considerate.
Read if:
✨ You want a wholesome quirky story with christian characters who are grounded in their faith.
🧡 You like to giggle your way through a book.
🦢You wish to escape into a whimsical world of lady inspectors, a glimpse of family life with losses but all the more love because of it and two piano players who help one another grow.
Maggie is not only an inventor in a secret society of beloved “sisters”, but she uses her skill to make fantastical accommodations since she needs the use of her wheeled chair in daily life. Angela did so well at explaining Maggie’s life in a way that was heartfelt and so true to those who deal with chronic illness.
It was like seeing myself in some of the pages which is so neat— especially for a Victorian era book!
Only Angela could combine the two and still make it whimsical.
I enjoyed the many hidden references to other films & characters, also revisiting the original characters from A Lady’s Guide to Marvels & Misadventure was the biggest treat! I highly recommend reading it first to get the full picture of this sweet family.
& Oh Mr. Noble. What shall we say of you?
You anxious gem of a character. While Charles Noble may not have physical disabilities, he struggles with the unknowns of his family since past tragedies still plague his mind, which makes him all the more understanding and considerate.
Read if:
✨ You want a wholesome quirky story with christian characters who are grounded in their faith.
🧡 You like to giggle your way through a book.
🦢You wish to escape into a whimsical world of lady inspectors, a glimpse of family life with losses but all the more love because of it and two piano players who help one another grow.
July 8, 2026
This book by Angela Bell was wonderful!! Oh my days, the mystery, the plot twists—I could not see where this was going till so close to the end!! The writing was intriguing and drew me into the story, and the whole premise, an organization of blue stockings, all gifted in different ways, secretly taking cases and solving crimes??? What is not to live about this.
And the representation of chronic pain, of living with unseen illness, it was so compassionate. As someone living with a chronic illness that doesn’t have visible markers, I felt so incredibly seen. Bell is so gracious and honest in her portrayals, and she writes not only the faith and hope but also the heartache and sacrifice of living with such a condition so well.
And, of course, there’s the love story. I just cannot, really. It was beautiful. The way they cared for each other in weakness and struggle and bolstered and supported one another in moments of strength was so real and pure. I really cannot say much about how much I loved it, so I’ll have to let Charles, speak for himself, “That is a high cost indeed. I won’t pretend to understand all that a future with you could entail, but I’m willing to listen and learn. I’m willing to figure things out and adapt. I’ve counted the cost, Maggie, and still, I choose you. I will always choose you.”
And the representation of chronic pain, of living with unseen illness, it was so compassionate. As someone living with a chronic illness that doesn’t have visible markers, I felt so incredibly seen. Bell is so gracious and honest in her portrayals, and she writes not only the faith and hope but also the heartache and sacrifice of living with such a condition so well.
And, of course, there’s the love story. I just cannot, really. It was beautiful. The way they cared for each other in weakness and struggle and bolstered and supported one another in moments of strength was so real and pure. I really cannot say much about how much I loved it, so I’ll have to let Charles, speak for himself, “That is a high cost indeed. I won’t pretend to understand all that a future with you could entail, but I’m willing to listen and learn. I’m willing to figure things out and adapt. I’ve counted the cost, Maggie, and still, I choose you. I will always choose you.”
July 9, 2026
This was amazing! I love that it is about Clara and Theodore's daughter. I also liked how she has chronic health problems, as that is something I can relate to. The spoon theory! I use it all the time, and it is amazing to find it in a book. And the par where she looks healthy but is actually in a lot of pain...oof. People think that you're fine and that it is all in your head...but it's not. One can LOOK fine (and say that one is fine) but they are in a ton of pain. Oh my. I can't say enough. Did I mention that there are clever allusions to other books and movies? For a short list: Aristocats, Sense and Sensibility, Aladin, and Mary Poppins. I love that.
July 14, 2026
There are SO many things I loved in this story! The disability rep was great to see and all the depth it brought to a truly delightful story. Charles was fabulous and I especially loved how Angela used the names of famous composers in the story. I also loved the shoutout to a beloved favorite movie (IYKYK!) Margaret was wonderful and it was fun to see Clara & Theodore again. A 2026 favorite for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Lady Margaret Kingsley is a wealthy young lady who could easily stay at home and be looked after in comfort. But she is a determined person who does not want to be defined or defeated by the fact that she is a wheelchair user with serious health struggles. Her own physical abilities may be limited, but she is a gifted and valuable member of the Daughters of Genius Society, a secret team of single ladies who 'gallivant about London solving crimes'. While the others are out and about however, Margaret prefers to stay behind the scenes. Her skills are in invention, not investigation. Or so she believes. But then Margaret begins to notice that inventions made by ordinary people, people who in many cases really need the monies their ideas should be earning for them, are being fraudulently attributed to the invention empire of Alvan T Harrison.
Meanwhile Charles Noble laid aside his concert pianist career to care for his family after his father's stroke. He takes a leave of absence from his job with the kindly trio of Bailey, Barton, and Westland to take up the temporary role of event coordinator for Alvan Harrison, preparing for a huge event to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Harrison's business empire. But he is distracted by a alluring young lady in a very interestingly adapted mechanical chair... and by the unsettling things which begin happening in his new employer's factory.
Margaret and Charles are going to have to work together to solve the mystery, and step well outside their respective comfort zones to do so, but Charles is convinced that Margaret's prime suspect, Alvan Harrison himself, is innocent of the serious offences which Margaret is equally sure he's guilty of. 'Rusted cogs!' as Margaret says, 'that was going to make working together rather complicated.'
I really enjoyed the first book in this series A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, and if anything, this next volume is even better than the first. The plot is cleverly structured with plenty of twists and turns, while not being too complicated to keep up with. Both leading characters are interesting, complex, believable and appealing. I felt invested in both of them right away. I also really like the fact that this author creates peripheral and supporting characters who are properly described and have some depth and quality, and who are interesting in their own right. No 'padding' and 'bit parts' here!
It's a gift to write people as well as this author does, and she manages to write their respective struggles with their own health issues and family pressures utterly convincingly and without any awkwardness. Margaret's physical limitations aren't glossed over, and her frustrations about her disability are significant in the portrayal of her character, but although they are part of who she is and how she works, and her chair is a masterpiece of mechanical wizardry, it is Margaret herself who shines through. I loved that when Charles first sees her (and is immediately attracted by her beauty and elegance!) it is Margaret he sees, and he only later notices her wheels. And when he does, he isn't at all bothered by them. Similarly, Charles' own more emotional struggles are well portrayed and feel real, and never slide into mawkishness. He, like Maggie, is a whole person, not a token 'emotionally-troubled' character. And, in Maggie, it is wonderful to have a book with a heroine who deals daily with disability and the physical and emotional struggles that brings, while we the readers are entirely engaged with who she is, including and not in spite of her disability, and how she and Charles will solve the mystery - and when she will realise he loves her, and she him.
I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery, a gentle 'he falls first' love story, an historical English setting (there's a very well constructed sense of time and place in this novel), and a little bit of steampunk-esque mechanical magic sprinkled throughout.
As an aside, there are loads of cleverly dropped references to other books, films or TV shows, which it becomes fun to spot. In my reading notes I jotted down references from Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, While You Were Sleeping, Babe (The Sheep-Pig), Charlotte's Web, MacGyver, Little Women, Oliver Twist, Beauty and the Beast (I love 'Lumiere's Fine Dining'!) and Pride and Prejudice! Not to mention one of Mark Twain's lesser well known books. All perfectly inserted, some more obviously than others, so as never to jar or to look as though they'd been forced into their places in this highly enjoyable story, but little 'nods' which felt a little like finding sparkly bits of treasure as I read. I wonder if there are others which I missed? I'm pretty sure there are.
I can't wait for book three...!
Edited to add in that there is excellent information at the back of the book about the characters in this series. Each of the members of The Daughters of Genius Society are inspired by real life women. Lady Margaret Kingsley is inspired by Margaret E Knight (1838-1914), who was a self-taught engineer and a prolific inventor who created her first invention at the age of twelve after witnessing a factory accident. Her invention was a safety mechanism to prevent the same thing happening again. One of her inventions was stolen by a Mr Annan, but Miss Knight did not just sit back and take this, she took Annan to court, winning her case and receiving the patent to her design.
NOTE: I read a pre-publication version supplied by the publisher. No review was required. All comments and opinions above are entirely my own.
Meanwhile Charles Noble laid aside his concert pianist career to care for his family after his father's stroke. He takes a leave of absence from his job with the kindly trio of Bailey, Barton, and Westland to take up the temporary role of event coordinator for Alvan Harrison, preparing for a huge event to commemorate the fiftieth anniversary of Harrison's business empire. But he is distracted by a alluring young lady in a very interestingly adapted mechanical chair... and by the unsettling things which begin happening in his new employer's factory.
Margaret and Charles are going to have to work together to solve the mystery, and step well outside their respective comfort zones to do so, but Charles is convinced that Margaret's prime suspect, Alvan Harrison himself, is innocent of the serious offences which Margaret is equally sure he's guilty of. 'Rusted cogs!' as Margaret says, 'that was going to make working together rather complicated.'
I really enjoyed the first book in this series A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, and if anything, this next volume is even better than the first. The plot is cleverly structured with plenty of twists and turns, while not being too complicated to keep up with. Both leading characters are interesting, complex, believable and appealing. I felt invested in both of them right away. I also really like the fact that this author creates peripheral and supporting characters who are properly described and have some depth and quality, and who are interesting in their own right. No 'padding' and 'bit parts' here!
It's a gift to write people as well as this author does, and she manages to write their respective struggles with their own health issues and family pressures utterly convincingly and without any awkwardness. Margaret's physical limitations aren't glossed over, and her frustrations about her disability are significant in the portrayal of her character, but although they are part of who she is and how she works, and her chair is a masterpiece of mechanical wizardry, it is Margaret herself who shines through. I loved that when Charles first sees her (and is immediately attracted by her beauty and elegance!) it is Margaret he sees, and he only later notices her wheels. And when he does, he isn't at all bothered by them. Similarly, Charles' own more emotional struggles are well portrayed and feel real, and never slide into mawkishness. He, like Maggie, is a whole person, not a token 'emotionally-troubled' character. And, in Maggie, it is wonderful to have a book with a heroine who deals daily with disability and the physical and emotional struggles that brings, while we the readers are entirely engaged with who she is, including and not in spite of her disability, and how she and Charles will solve the mystery - and when she will realise he loves her, and she him.
I highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good mystery, a gentle 'he falls first' love story, an historical English setting (there's a very well constructed sense of time and place in this novel), and a little bit of steampunk-esque mechanical magic sprinkled throughout.
As an aside, there are loads of cleverly dropped references to other books, films or TV shows, which it becomes fun to spot. In my reading notes I jotted down references from Mary Poppins, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, While You Were Sleeping, Babe (The Sheep-Pig), Charlotte's Web, MacGyver, Little Women, Oliver Twist, Beauty and the Beast (I love 'Lumiere's Fine Dining'!) and Pride and Prejudice! Not to mention one of Mark Twain's lesser well known books. All perfectly inserted, some more obviously than others, so as never to jar or to look as though they'd been forced into their places in this highly enjoyable story, but little 'nods' which felt a little like finding sparkly bits of treasure as I read. I wonder if there are others which I missed? I'm pretty sure there are.
I can't wait for book three...!
Edited to add in that there is excellent information at the back of the book about the characters in this series. Each of the members of The Daughters of Genius Society are inspired by real life women. Lady Margaret Kingsley is inspired by Margaret E Knight (1838-1914), who was a self-taught engineer and a prolific inventor who created her first invention at the age of twelve after witnessing a factory accident. Her invention was a safety mechanism to prevent the same thing happening again. One of her inventions was stolen by a Mr Annan, but Miss Knight did not just sit back and take this, she took Annan to court, winning her case and receiving the patent to her design.
NOTE: I read a pre-publication version supplied by the publisher. No review was required. All comments and opinions above are entirely my own.
Review of advance copy
2.5 stars
It pains me to rate this book this way, but I need to be honest with myself over it. I pre-ordered this book and it arrived earlier than the release date (which was surprising). I had enjoyed A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, which was adventurous, humorous, and fun (and gave 3.75 stars to).
In this book, we do still have A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure's main characters who are minor characters in this book! I won't tell you how they appear in this story, but it was really sweet. There are definite nods to that story.
The main character in this is Margaret. She uses a wheelchair as her body is weak. It takes quite a long time to learn about how this happened to her, but it is based off of a real person she is named after, and something she watched happened in reality to cause her to create an invention. Margaret is an inventor. She creates things that are very steampunk and creative. I find her character to be very lovely and it was nice to see how she grew in this story. She is around thirty years old and doesn't like that she has to be dependent on others considering her health. She therefore doesn't believe she will ever find someone to marry, especially since her condition would probably scare off the men. She has learn to accept that.
Margaret is a part of a group of women (Daughters of Genius Society or DOGS) who are all "spinsters" coming together to help others. At first I thought this was going to be specifically about rescuing women from mental hospitals because the first chapter made it seem as such, but it was just that specific investigation that they brought up. They help and do different things for different people. Margaret is put on the top to head up an investigation to learn about patents in regard to a certain specific company. She goes undercover as a journalist.
The second main character of this story is Mr. Charles Noble. He is a musician. He loves music so much, but he needed to get a new job to help provide for his family. When he sees Margaret, he sees a vision of perfection and beauty and is thrilled to see that she and he get to work alongside one another at the company he's been at for a month. The two of them start to form a friendship and bond.
In the first half of this book, it was filled with lots of Disney references, mainly from Beauty and the Beast. Quotes from the songs and more. It was actually annoying me. There were references even for names of people like Cogsworth and Potts. Then there were references to a lot of other things. Fern, Wilbur, and Babe being pig names (Charlotte's Web and Babe), MacGyver, Little Women, Cranford (a book I recently read and didn't enjoy too), and things that just kept going overboard, in my opinion. I get it, nostalgia sells. Also all the Inspector Gadget types of exclamations throughout the book (most people won't even understand why these characters are doing that, but I'm an '83 baby who grew up watching the cartoon). I just wanted an original story without all that. I felt like the first book, with the Nutcracker theme, did better with that. This was supposed to be Little Women and Inspector Gadget, but it just didn't work the same way (I get it, the spinsters were all sisters but they even referenced Little women and even Louisa, one of the characters named after the author of Little Women, was brought up, so it was strange). If it weren't for the crazy amounts of references, I probably would have liked it a lot more. I want originality, not nostalgia.
The problem is that the entire first half of this book didn't captivate me at all. The second half was a lot better and more fun as it went on. The faith elements were very small and I would have liked much more of it (it was mainly talking about hymns, people praying with a touch of God brought up seldomly and with other names like "The Mechanic" or something like that).
I feel so sad that I was disappointed with this book, but I did enjoy the ending and did see how there was redemption even for "the bad guy" in this. I did like the inventions and all the automatons, since that was definitely a thing in that time period. It had fun elements, but yeah, that beginning half. . .I nearly gave up on the book.
I know I am the first person on Goodreads to give a lower than 3-star rating, which it pains me to do so, but I had to be real. This book didn't really move my soul or make me swoon, like I had hoped it would. Will I continue reading Angela Bell's books? Probably, because I do like that steam punk element she brings to it, and we don't see enough Christian books like that.
content: two siblings lovingly tease one another, there are weird exclamations throughout the story which could be replacement swears to some who read this (one example from the book would be, "Gilbert and Sullivan!" before going on with a statement - so they aren't bad), stealing, deceit/lies, eavesdropping, a child put at risk, talk about people possibly getting hurt badly, talk about gun use
It pains me to rate this book this way, but I need to be honest with myself over it. I pre-ordered this book and it arrived earlier than the release date (which was surprising). I had enjoyed A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, which was adventurous, humorous, and fun (and gave 3.75 stars to).
In this book, we do still have A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure's main characters who are minor characters in this book! I won't tell you how they appear in this story, but it was really sweet. There are definite nods to that story.
The main character in this is Margaret. She uses a wheelchair as her body is weak. It takes quite a long time to learn about how this happened to her, but it is based off of a real person she is named after, and something she watched happened in reality to cause her to create an invention. Margaret is an inventor. She creates things that are very steampunk and creative. I find her character to be very lovely and it was nice to see how she grew in this story. She is around thirty years old and doesn't like that she has to be dependent on others considering her health. She therefore doesn't believe she will ever find someone to marry, especially since her condition would probably scare off the men. She has learn to accept that.
Margaret is a part of a group of women (Daughters of Genius Society or DOGS) who are all "spinsters" coming together to help others. At first I thought this was going to be specifically about rescuing women from mental hospitals because the first chapter made it seem as such, but it was just that specific investigation that they brought up. They help and do different things for different people. Margaret is put on the top to head up an investigation to learn about patents in regard to a certain specific company. She goes undercover as a journalist.
The second main character of this story is Mr. Charles Noble. He is a musician. He loves music so much, but he needed to get a new job to help provide for his family. When he sees Margaret, he sees a vision of perfection and beauty and is thrilled to see that she and he get to work alongside one another at the company he's been at for a month. The two of them start to form a friendship and bond.
In the first half of this book, it was filled with lots of Disney references, mainly from Beauty and the Beast. Quotes from the songs and more. It was actually annoying me. There were references even for names of people like Cogsworth and Potts. Then there were references to a lot of other things. Fern, Wilbur, and Babe being pig names (Charlotte's Web and Babe), MacGyver, Little Women, Cranford (a book I recently read and didn't enjoy too), and things that just kept going overboard, in my opinion. I get it, nostalgia sells. Also all the Inspector Gadget types of exclamations throughout the book (most people won't even understand why these characters are doing that, but I'm an '83 baby who grew up watching the cartoon). I just wanted an original story without all that. I felt like the first book, with the Nutcracker theme, did better with that. This was supposed to be Little Women and Inspector Gadget, but it just didn't work the same way (I get it, the spinsters were all sisters but they even referenced Little women and even Louisa, one of the characters named after the author of Little Women, was brought up, so it was strange). If it weren't for the crazy amounts of references, I probably would have liked it a lot more. I want originality, not nostalgia.
The problem is that the entire first half of this book didn't captivate me at all. The second half was a lot better and more fun as it went on. The faith elements were very small and I would have liked much more of it (it was mainly talking about hymns, people praying with a touch of God brought up seldomly and with other names like "The Mechanic" or something like that).
I feel so sad that I was disappointed with this book, but I did enjoy the ending and did see how there was redemption even for "the bad guy" in this. I did like the inventions and all the automatons, since that was definitely a thing in that time period. It had fun elements, but yeah, that beginning half. . .I nearly gave up on the book.
I know I am the first person on Goodreads to give a lower than 3-star rating, which it pains me to do so, but I had to be real. This book didn't really move my soul or make me swoon, like I had hoped it would. Will I continue reading Angela Bell's books? Probably, because I do like that steam punk element she brings to it, and we don't see enough Christian books like that.
content: two siblings lovingly tease one another, there are weird exclamations throughout the story which could be replacement swears to some who read this (one example from the book would be, "Gilbert and Sullivan!" before going on with a statement - so they aren't bad), stealing, deceit/lies, eavesdropping, a child put at risk, talk about people possibly getting hurt badly, talk about gun use
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I FELL IN LOVE WITH THIS STORY ~
1895, London, England.
"Margaret was not like other girls in high society. For one, having celebrated her thirtieth trip around the sun 🌞, she was well into spinsterhood and not likely to be mistaken for a girl. For another, having suffered a grievous injury in her youth 👩🦽, she was afflicted with chronic pain and the dehumanizing term of invalid."
This book really highlights chronic pain in such an interesting way, shedding light on the silent suffering of others. However, adapting it to a clever inventor and a tale of intrigue and romance was delightful.
There are plenty of ☕ tea moments, from a bracing cup of Assam to steaming cups of Ceylon to piping hot Darjeeling served alongside stroopwafels filled with caramel.
Charles' nickname for Margaret, of Reverie, was sigh-worthy. Figaro is a comfort-giving cat 🐈.
There is beautiful music sweetly shared on the piano, including Abide With Me. 🎹🎵
There are several Easter Eggs throughout the story that harken back to beloved stories and movies, such as the references to "leaning" [While You Were Sleeping 😂] that made this story all the more enjoyable.
At the back of the book, we learn that all of the lady inspectors are inspired by real-life women. How cool is that?! I will leave you to read who those are.
🥄🥄🥄🥄🥄🥄 Spoon Theory: An analogy that illustrates the limited energy of individuals with chronic illness, pain, or disability. It helps them verbalize how much energy they believe they have for a certain period of time, and was well-used in this story.
I was especially touched when the elderly "Magi" prayed around Charles.
I stayed up until midnight to finish this book in one sitting. What an absolutely wonderful read!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a copy of the eVersion from NetGalley and the Publisher. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
I previously read A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure in January of 2024 and also gave it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. However, this latest book is listed as book one in the new series: Daughters of Genius Society, yet it does relate back to the first book.
Read 6/7/2026
1895, London, England.
"Margaret was not like other girls in high society. For one, having celebrated her thirtieth trip around the sun 🌞, she was well into spinsterhood and not likely to be mistaken for a girl. For another, having suffered a grievous injury in her youth 👩🦽, she was afflicted with chronic pain and the dehumanizing term of invalid."
This book really highlights chronic pain in such an interesting way, shedding light on the silent suffering of others. However, adapting it to a clever inventor and a tale of intrigue and romance was delightful.
There are plenty of ☕ tea moments, from a bracing cup of Assam to steaming cups of Ceylon to piping hot Darjeeling served alongside stroopwafels filled with caramel.
Charles' nickname for Margaret, of Reverie, was sigh-worthy. Figaro is a comfort-giving cat 🐈.
There is beautiful music sweetly shared on the piano, including Abide With Me. 🎹🎵
There are several Easter Eggs throughout the story that harken back to beloved stories and movies, such as the references to "leaning" [While You Were Sleeping 😂] that made this story all the more enjoyable.
At the back of the book, we learn that all of the lady inspectors are inspired by real-life women. How cool is that?! I will leave you to read who those are.
🥄🥄🥄🥄🥄🥄 Spoon Theory: An analogy that illustrates the limited energy of individuals with chronic illness, pain, or disability. It helps them verbalize how much energy they believe they have for a certain period of time, and was well-used in this story.
I was especially touched when the elderly "Magi" prayed around Charles.
I stayed up until midnight to finish this book in one sitting. What an absolutely wonderful read!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a copy of the eVersion from NetGalley and the Publisher. All thoughts and opinions are mine alone without expectation or compensation.
I previously read A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure in January of 2024 and also gave it ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐. However, this latest book is listed as book one in the new series: Daughters of Genius Society, yet it does relate back to the first book.
Read 6/7/2026
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Libro con protagonista en silla de ruedas, inteligente, inventora y obsesionada con crear cosas imposibles en época victoriana. Ah, y además tiene romance. Vendido
Todas mujeres que aparecen fueron inspiradas en mujeres reales. Dejare el extracto de Margaret:
"Lady Margaret Kingsley is inspired by Margaret E. Knight (1838–1914), a self-taught engineer and prolific inventor.
Margaret E. Knight Margaret “Mattie” Eloise Knight (1838–1914) was a self-taught engineer and inventor. A mechanical prodigy, Knight invented her first device at the age of twelve after witnessing a factory accident—a steel-tipped shuttle broke free from an industrial loom, striking and injuring one of the workers. Knight invented and installed a safety mechanism that prevented this sort of malfunction from occurring again. While her invention was adopted by the surrounding factories, it was never patented. Knight is best remembered for inventing a machine that produced flat-bottomed paper bags, which prior to her invention had been a time-consuming and costly ware manufactured by hand. Upon applying for a patent, Knight discovered her invention had been purloined by one Mr. Annan, a machinist who’d visited the shop where Knight was having her wooden prototype made into an iron model. (Iron models were a requirement when submitting for patent application.) Promptly filing a patent interference lawsuit in 1870, Miss Knight took Mr. Annan to court and won! After receiving her patent in 1871, Knight founded the Eastern Paper Bag Company in Hartford, Connecticut, a business from which she received royalties. Margaret E. Knight is considered one of the most prolific female inventor of the nineteenth century. In 2006, Knight was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, which credited her with at least twenty-six patented inventions. "
Todas mujeres que aparecen fueron inspiradas en mujeres reales. Dejare el extracto de Margaret:
"Lady Margaret Kingsley is inspired by Margaret E. Knight (1838–1914), a self-taught engineer and prolific inventor.
Margaret E. Knight Margaret “Mattie” Eloise Knight (1838–1914) was a self-taught engineer and inventor. A mechanical prodigy, Knight invented her first device at the age of twelve after witnessing a factory accident—a steel-tipped shuttle broke free from an industrial loom, striking and injuring one of the workers. Knight invented and installed a safety mechanism that prevented this sort of malfunction from occurring again. While her invention was adopted by the surrounding factories, it was never patented. Knight is best remembered for inventing a machine that produced flat-bottomed paper bags, which prior to her invention had been a time-consuming and costly ware manufactured by hand. Upon applying for a patent, Knight discovered her invention had been purloined by one Mr. Annan, a machinist who’d visited the shop where Knight was having her wooden prototype made into an iron model. (Iron models were a requirement when submitting for patent application.) Promptly filing a patent interference lawsuit in 1870, Miss Knight took Mr. Annan to court and won! After receiving her patent in 1871, Knight founded the Eastern Paper Bag Company in Hartford, Connecticut, a business from which she received royalties. Margaret E. Knight is considered one of the most prolific female inventor of the nineteenth century. In 2006, Knight was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, which credited her with at least twenty-six patented inventions. "
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Bethany House Publishers and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Angela Bell returns with the second novel in the Daughters of Genius Society (DOGS), 'A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile'. While this novel is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. I found that it was not hard to follow as I have not read the first novel, but will be going back to pick it up.
This novel centers around ambulatory wheelchair user, Margaret Kingsley. She secretly creates gadgets for DOGS, a covert team of women inspectors. Margaret (Maggie) suffers from chronic back pain and feels more comfortable working in the lab than out working cases with her fellow inspectors. When she is called upon to infiltrate the lab of inventor, Alvan T. Harrison, she wants to say no but how can she. She is willing but hesitant.
Charles Noble, the main male lead has had to sacrifice his musical career to support his family after his father suffered a stroke. He works as a secretary during the day in order to take of his father at night. When Alvan T. Harrison hires him to organize a 50th anniversary party for the company he cannot turn it down. At the company, Charles meets Maggie and is instantly drawn to her. What happens next is a romp through the world of Victorian invention as they work to solve the mystery that has all the DOGS are working on.
This historical christian romance mystery had it all. As an avid reader, I have found it difficult to find novels that are surprising. This surprised me. I applaud this series for addressing chronic pain with understanding and grace. The gadgets and inventions were so thought out and well executed. Thank you for bringing these characters to life. I have not read any of her other books but will be looking for them.
Angela Bell returns with the second novel in the Daughters of Genius Society (DOGS), 'A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile'. While this novel is part of a series, it can be read as a stand-alone. I found that it was not hard to follow as I have not read the first novel, but will be going back to pick it up.
This novel centers around ambulatory wheelchair user, Margaret Kingsley. She secretly creates gadgets for DOGS, a covert team of women inspectors. Margaret (Maggie) suffers from chronic back pain and feels more comfortable working in the lab than out working cases with her fellow inspectors. When she is called upon to infiltrate the lab of inventor, Alvan T. Harrison, she wants to say no but how can she. She is willing but hesitant.
Charles Noble, the main male lead has had to sacrifice his musical career to support his family after his father suffered a stroke. He works as a secretary during the day in order to take of his father at night. When Alvan T. Harrison hires him to organize a 50th anniversary party for the company he cannot turn it down. At the company, Charles meets Maggie and is instantly drawn to her. What happens next is a romp through the world of Victorian invention as they work to solve the mystery that has all the DOGS are working on.
This historical christian romance mystery had it all. As an avid reader, I have found it difficult to find novels that are surprising. This surprised me. I applaud this series for addressing chronic pain with understanding and grace. The gadgets and inventions were so thought out and well executed. Thank you for bringing these characters to life. I have not read any of her other books but will be looking for them.
July 11, 2026
Angela Bell's writing is truly quite marvelous. It's whimsical, detail-oriented, and so incredibly well-penned with metamorphic landscape and expansive vocabulary! I've never had the pleasure of reading anything like Bell's writing! It's truly a God-given talent, and I'm honored that I get to appreciate its beauty! ❤️
Now onto the story itself! I absolutely adored this story with my whole heart. It's full of intrigue, suspense, glorious gadgets, and a sweet, wholesome Christian romance all wrapped up into a whimsical bow. What could be better?
I'm a stickler for a good mystery, and I really enjoyed diving into this one! I also loved the themes of friendship and female empowerment, and especially the genuine, authentic disability representation! As someone with a neurological disability myself, I understand the challenges of my condition, along with the scrutiny I've received from others, and the constant feeling of being a "burden" to the people I love. This novel touches on all of these topics beautifully, and in a very respectful manner; Margaret was a character I resonated with and loved very much, and I was tickled pink to know that she got the "happily ever after" (with a courtgous and kind gentleman to say the least) she deserves!
Can I also say how cool it would be to be part of the Daughters of Genius Society! Sign me up!
I cannot wait to read what comes next from Angela Bell! She's definitely becoming one of my favorite authors. Her words are the essence of harmonious tunes, and her stories touch my heart!
✨ A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile is the first installment in the upcoming "Daughters of Genius Society" series. Suitable for young adult readers and older. ✨
Now onto the story itself! I absolutely adored this story with my whole heart. It's full of intrigue, suspense, glorious gadgets, and a sweet, wholesome Christian romance all wrapped up into a whimsical bow. What could be better?
I'm a stickler for a good mystery, and I really enjoyed diving into this one! I also loved the themes of friendship and female empowerment, and especially the genuine, authentic disability representation! As someone with a neurological disability myself, I understand the challenges of my condition, along with the scrutiny I've received from others, and the constant feeling of being a "burden" to the people I love. This novel touches on all of these topics beautifully, and in a very respectful manner; Margaret was a character I resonated with and loved very much, and I was tickled pink to know that she got the "happily ever after" (with a courtgous and kind gentleman to say the least) she deserves!
Can I also say how cool it would be to be part of the Daughters of Genius Society! Sign me up!
I cannot wait to read what comes next from Angela Bell! She's definitely becoming one of my favorite authors. Her words are the essence of harmonious tunes, and her stories touch my heart!
✨ A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile is the first installment in the upcoming "Daughters of Genius Society" series. Suitable for young adult readers and older. ✨
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
After falling in love with Angela Bell’s debut, A LADY’S GUIDE TO MARVELS AND MISADVENTURE, I had high hopes for her sophomore novel—and she exceeded them. Better yet, A LADY’S HANDBOOK TO GADGETS AND GUILE launches a new series! Packed with adventure, suspense, sisterhood, first love, faith, and a quest worthy of the best classics, this story sparkles with sharp dialogue, laugh-out-loud moments, and clever literary nods. And those Easter eggs? Pure delight.
What elevates this story above similar steampunk-flavored historical genres is Bell's courageous decision to give her protagonist chronic, debilitating pain. The condition shapes her daily reality without diminishing her intelligence, creativity, or determination. Watching her dream up one astonishing invention after another was both inspiring and delightful.
THE STORY: Margaret Kingsley, an ambulatory wheelchair user and gifted inventor, works behind the scenes for a secret society of lady inspectors until a case sends her undercover into the world of London's most celebrated inventor. When her investigation intersects with Charles Noble, a dutiful secretary caring for his disabled father, the two must uncover a sabotage plot—and navigate a growing attraction.
5 STARS BECAUSE anyone who can successfully blend Little Women and Inspector Gadget deserves applause. With purposeful faith threads, mystery, suspense, witty dialogue, and humor woven through genuine pain and adversity, Bell has crafted a truly unique story. I can't wait to see what she invents next.
I received an ARC from Bethany House through #netgalley for my honest review.
What elevates this story above similar steampunk-flavored historical genres is Bell's courageous decision to give her protagonist chronic, debilitating pain. The condition shapes her daily reality without diminishing her intelligence, creativity, or determination. Watching her dream up one astonishing invention after another was both inspiring and delightful.
THE STORY: Margaret Kingsley, an ambulatory wheelchair user and gifted inventor, works behind the scenes for a secret society of lady inspectors until a case sends her undercover into the world of London's most celebrated inventor. When her investigation intersects with Charles Noble, a dutiful secretary caring for his disabled father, the two must uncover a sabotage plot—and navigate a growing attraction.
5 STARS BECAUSE anyone who can successfully blend Little Women and Inspector Gadget deserves applause. With purposeful faith threads, mystery, suspense, witty dialogue, and humor woven through genuine pain and adversity, Bell has crafted a truly unique story. I can't wait to see what she invents next.
I received an ARC from Bethany House through #netgalley for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5
This is such a clever and exciting book to showcase the strength and ingenuity of women in all times and ages. It is inspired by real women, pioneers in fields of engineering, linguistics, writing, marksmanship, and overall bravery. These qualities are woven into a story of mystery, intrigue, bravery, sadness, and a touch of romance. It has charm, history, gadgets, plenty of pluck and witty banter, quirky characters, and a touch of faith all set in the Victorian era.
The inventions are just so fun, a little reminiscent of Inspector Gadget all created by intelligent and spunky women. STEM, bravery, and good friendship can get these D.O.G.S. out of the craziest of situations. And by DOGS, I mean the Daughters of Genius Society.
Chronic pain, illness, disability, and faith are all a part of this book and it is inspiring to say the least.
"How was a lady to discreetly conceal a grappling hook on her person, that was the question. And the answer, quite logically, was within the handle of a parasol."
Using a needle case, a wheelchair, a parasol or anything else that was easy to disguise kept these 'spinsters'- Lady Inspectors, out of the range of suspicion for the many assignments they were given and cases to solve.
"Just for a moment, stop fixating on your limitations and simple consider the facts."
"Love cannot take away pain." "No it cannot. But love can ensure we don't hurt alone."
I loved the unique style, creative expressions, and the overall tone of "CAN DO", along with the quirky characters that make a great team of inspectors and investigators.
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley for my opinion.
This is such a clever and exciting book to showcase the strength and ingenuity of women in all times and ages. It is inspired by real women, pioneers in fields of engineering, linguistics, writing, marksmanship, and overall bravery. These qualities are woven into a story of mystery, intrigue, bravery, sadness, and a touch of romance. It has charm, history, gadgets, plenty of pluck and witty banter, quirky characters, and a touch of faith all set in the Victorian era.
The inventions are just so fun, a little reminiscent of Inspector Gadget all created by intelligent and spunky women. STEM, bravery, and good friendship can get these D.O.G.S. out of the craziest of situations. And by DOGS, I mean the Daughters of Genius Society.
Chronic pain, illness, disability, and faith are all a part of this book and it is inspiring to say the least.
"How was a lady to discreetly conceal a grappling hook on her person, that was the question. And the answer, quite logically, was within the handle of a parasol."
Using a needle case, a wheelchair, a parasol or anything else that was easy to disguise kept these 'spinsters'- Lady Inspectors, out of the range of suspicion for the many assignments they were given and cases to solve.
"Just for a moment, stop fixating on your limitations and simple consider the facts."
"Love cannot take away pain." "No it cannot. But love can ensure we don't hurt alone."
I loved the unique style, creative expressions, and the overall tone of "CAN DO", along with the quirky characters that make a great team of inspectors and investigators.
I received a copy of the book from Netgalley for my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A Lady's Handbook to Gadgets and Guile by Angela Bell has surpassed my expectations. I loved her debut novel, A Lady's Guide to Marvels and Misadventure, immensely, and I was afraid her second novel couldn't compare. I have happily been proven wrong.
The whimsy of the first novel remains and the beautiful language. Bell has such wit and creativity with our language. She ruins me for lesser writing.
This is another women in STEAM story. There are nods to many famous composers, artists, plus characters in literature and the cinema. And architecture! I even ventured to look up more info and pictures!
Prejudices of the Victorian era are exposed and done away with. I love to see those who are downtrodden be lifted up by others, because of Jesus. And the romance was so endearing!
This novel has a wonderful author's note AND bibliography! If anyone tries dismiss the historical accuracy of this book because of the whimsy and creativity, they need to look deeper. I am just so fascinated with the background and the research.
I think Angela Bell books are the most unique books I have read, combining history and science with a bit of steampunk fantasy! I can't say enough about the good and enjoyable aspects. I had goosebumps, I teared up, I cried. And I laughed. These characters have my heart. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
The whimsy of the first novel remains and the beautiful language. Bell has such wit and creativity with our language. She ruins me for lesser writing.
This is another women in STEAM story. There are nods to many famous composers, artists, plus characters in literature and the cinema. And architecture! I even ventured to look up more info and pictures!
Prejudices of the Victorian era are exposed and done away with. I love to see those who are downtrodden be lifted up by others, because of Jesus. And the romance was so endearing!
This novel has a wonderful author's note AND bibliography! If anyone tries dismiss the historical accuracy of this book because of the whimsy and creativity, they need to look deeper. I am just so fascinated with the background and the research.
I think Angela Bell books are the most unique books I have read, combining history and science with a bit of steampunk fantasy! I can't say enough about the good and enjoyable aspects. I had goosebumps, I teared up, I cried. And I laughed. These characters have my heart. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
July 7, 2026
I received a complimentary paperback from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
If you suffer from chronic pain or know someone who does, 𝑨 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚’𝒔 𝑯𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝑮𝒂𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒆 is the perfect novel to add to your summer TBR.
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐲, a behind-the-scenes tinkerer & inventor, suffers lasting effects from a childhood accident. It’s not difficult to feel empathy toward this intelligent woman who often relies on the use of a wheelchair and feels like a burden as a care recipient. Through her, the reader gains a smidge of understanding of what it must be like to manage constant pain on a daily basis.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞 is no stranger to care giving since his father suffered a stroke. He’s made huge sacrifices to help his family, and now he finds himself collaborating with Margaret on a case involving a famous inventor. He deals with anxiety but finds solace through music—something he and Margaret share in common. Charles is a character who certainly lives up to his last name! The jocular banter between he and his brothers is fun, and I thought his interactions with Margaret oh-so-sweet.
𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲! I recommend if you love whimsical prose laced with musical flair and eccentric characters inspired by real women from the Victorian era. It includes a light steampunk atmosphere, a strong faith element, and clean romance.
If you suffer from chronic pain or know someone who does, 𝑨 𝑳𝒂𝒅𝒚’𝒔 𝑯𝒂𝒏𝒅𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒕𝒐 𝑮𝒂𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑮𝒖𝒊𝒍𝒆 is the perfect novel to add to your summer TBR.
𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐭 𝐊𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬𝐥𝐞𝐲, a behind-the-scenes tinkerer & inventor, suffers lasting effects from a childhood accident. It’s not difficult to feel empathy toward this intelligent woman who often relies on the use of a wheelchair and feels like a burden as a care recipient. Through her, the reader gains a smidge of understanding of what it must be like to manage constant pain on a daily basis.
𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐍𝐨𝐛𝐥𝐞 is no stranger to care giving since his father suffered a stroke. He’s made huge sacrifices to help his family, and now he finds himself collaborating with Margaret on a case involving a famous inventor. He deals with anxiety but finds solace through music—something he and Margaret share in common. Charles is a character who certainly lives up to his last name! The jocular banter between he and his brothers is fun, and I thought his interactions with Margaret oh-so-sweet.
𝐈 𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐞𝐧𝐣𝐨𝐲𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐲! I recommend if you love whimsical prose laced with musical flair and eccentric characters inspired by real women from the Victorian era. It includes a light steampunk atmosphere, a strong faith element, and clean romance.
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