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A Series of Senseless Complications #7
Lady Fearful
She is afraid of her own shadow. He likes to sail his sloop at night and harass the French. No two temperaments could be further apart.
Lady Valor Nicolet is the last daughter the Duke of Pelham will launch out of his house. While some daughters might leap at the chance to take their place in Town, this particular daughter has been holding on tight to her childhood home. She even went as far as pretending to be consumptive, though it proved to be so boring she had to stage a miraculous recovery.
Now she is on her way, and brings her own ideas to locating a husband. She is determined to find a quiet, unambitious baron who prefers the countryside and collects…well, she does not really know what he might collect. It just seems to her that a gentleman who collects things cannot be dangerous.
Weston Nicolet, cousin to Lady Valor and heir presumptive to the duke, has been raised by Lord Ledderbey on the Cornwall coast since his parents died. Lately, he and his valet have been taking his sloop, The Athena, out at night to harass French frigates. After word gets back to him that the French might make a landing to put an end to his adventures, he realizes he must get Lord Ledderbey away from the danger.
He need not look too hard for a house, as the Duke of Pelham, who has never once bothered to write to him, has gone so far as to rent him a house on Grosvenor Square. Weston does not like it, but to London they will go.
A lady wishing to remove all danger from her life and a gentleman who regularly sails out to find it could not be less suited. But on the other hand, perhaps both of them have some things to learn about life.
Tropes You'll Opposites AttractReluctant DebutanteProtective HeroFamily ConnectionFish Out of WaterSweet Romance / Closed Door
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
This series is part of Dragonblade's Sweet Dreams line, so this is a sweet, wholesome Historical Romance where passion beyond the bedroom door is left to the reader’s imagination.
A Series of Senseless Complications
Book 1: Lady Ferocity
Book 2: Lady Graceless
Book 3: Lady Impatience
Book 4: Lady Dramatic
Book 5: Lady Liar
Book 6: Lady Suspicious
Book 7: Lady Fearful
Lady Valor Nicolet is the last daughter the Duke of Pelham will launch out of his house. While some daughters might leap at the chance to take their place in Town, this particular daughter has been holding on tight to her childhood home. She even went as far as pretending to be consumptive, though it proved to be so boring she had to stage a miraculous recovery.
Now she is on her way, and brings her own ideas to locating a husband. She is determined to find a quiet, unambitious baron who prefers the countryside and collects…well, she does not really know what he might collect. It just seems to her that a gentleman who collects things cannot be dangerous.
Weston Nicolet, cousin to Lady Valor and heir presumptive to the duke, has been raised by Lord Ledderbey on the Cornwall coast since his parents died. Lately, he and his valet have been taking his sloop, The Athena, out at night to harass French frigates. After word gets back to him that the French might make a landing to put an end to his adventures, he realizes he must get Lord Ledderbey away from the danger.
He need not look too hard for a house, as the Duke of Pelham, who has never once bothered to write to him, has gone so far as to rent him a house on Grosvenor Square. Weston does not like it, but to London they will go.
A lady wishing to remove all danger from her life and a gentleman who regularly sails out to find it could not be less suited. But on the other hand, perhaps both of them have some things to learn about life.
Tropes You'll Opposites AttractReluctant DebutanteProtective HeroFamily ConnectionFish Out of WaterSweet Romance / Closed Door
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
This series is part of Dragonblade's Sweet Dreams line, so this is a sweet, wholesome Historical Romance where passion beyond the bedroom door is left to the reader’s imagination.
A Series of Senseless Complications
Book 1: Lady Ferocity
Book 2: Lady Graceless
Book 3: Lady Impatience
Book 4: Lady Dramatic
Book 5: Lady Liar
Book 6: Lady Suspicious
Book 7: Lady Fearful
240 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 19, 2025
43 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Kate Archer
36 books102 followersBy the time I was eleven, my Irish Nana and I had formed a book club of sorts. On a timetable only known to herself, Nana would grab her blackthorn walking stick and steam down to the local Woolworth’s. There, she would buy the latest Barbara Cartland romance, hurry home to read it accompanied by viciously strong wine, (Wild Irish Rose, if you’re wondering) and then pass the book on to me. Though I was not particularly interested in real boys yet, I was very interested in the gentlemen in those stories—daring, bold, and often enraging and unaccountable. After my Barbara Cartland phase, I went on to Georgette Heyer, Jane Austen and so many other gifted authors blessed with the ability to bring the Georgian and Regency eras to life.
I would like nothing more than to time travel back to the Regency (and time travel back to my twenties as long as we’re going somewhere) to take my chances at a ball. Who would take the first? Who would escort me into supper? What sort of meaningful looks would be exchanged? I would hope, having made the trip, to encounter a gentleman who would give me a very hard time. He ought to be vexatious in the extreme, and worth every vexation, to make the journey worthwhile.
I most likely won’t be able to work out the time travel gambit, so I will content myself with writing stories of adventure and romance in my beloved time period. There are lives to be created, marvelous gowns to wear, jewels to don, instant attractions that inevitably come with a difficulty, and hearts to break before putting them back together again. In traditional Regency fashion, my stories are clean—the action happens in a drawing room, rather than a bedroom.
As I muse over what will happen next to my H and h, and wish I were there with them, I will occasionally remind myself that it’s also nice to have a microwave, Netflix, cheese popcorn, and steaming hot showers.
Come see me on Facebook - @KateArcherAuthor or visit my website at https://katearcher.weebly.com
I would like nothing more than to time travel back to the Regency (and time travel back to my twenties as long as we’re going somewhere) to take my chances at a ball. Who would take the first? Who would escort me into supper? What sort of meaningful looks would be exchanged? I would hope, having made the trip, to encounter a gentleman who would give me a very hard time. He ought to be vexatious in the extreme, and worth every vexation, to make the journey worthwhile.
I most likely won’t be able to work out the time travel gambit, so I will content myself with writing stories of adventure and romance in my beloved time period. There are lives to be created, marvelous gowns to wear, jewels to don, instant attractions that inevitably come with a difficulty, and hearts to break before putting them back together again. In traditional Regency fashion, my stories are clean—the action happens in a drawing room, rather than a bedroom.
As I muse over what will happen next to my H and h, and wish I were there with them, I will occasionally remind myself that it’s also nice to have a microwave, Netflix, cheese popcorn, and steaming hot showers.
Come see me on Facebook - @KateArcherAuthor or visit my website at https://katearcher.weebly.com
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
December 27, 2025
The Duke of Pelham is finally launching his last daughter into society. Valor Nicolet is uneasy with the whole process. Thankfully she has Mrs. Right, her father the Duke and her six sisters to help ease the way. Weston Nicolet, Viscount Tamondeley, is the heir to the Duke of Pelham. He's spent many years harassing the French off the coast of Cornwell. It's getting dangerous to keep it up. Though they have never met, the Duke of Pelham's invitation to London is the perfect answer to his dilemma. Meeting Valor throws Weston into a spin. The appearance of Damiano Verdiccio, Conte di Conpressio, becomes competition for Valor and a danger to Weston. The last book in the series, I'm sorry to see it end, but is still full of laughs and giggles. A very entertaining series, you must definitely start with the first book.
Every book is a clean romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
Every book is a clean romance.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
January 19, 2026
This was my least favorite of the series. All of the humor in the first few books was almost nonexistent. I loved the interactions between the sisters, but with Valor being the only one in the house, and the others never visiting on page, we didn't have that. And without the humor the book was just dull.
December 7, 2025
Thank you to Kate Archer and NetGalley for this free ARC.
I don't read historical romance often, but I decided to pick this one up upon seeing the title 'Lady Fearful' by Kate Archer.
✍🏽📖 The Reading Experience
This is the 7th book in the series, and the first one I've read and as such I can say that this reads as a standalone. There's enough exposition and cameos from our main character Valor's sisters and their husbands to hint at past events. The backstory delivered without too much info-dumping.
The descriptions were engaging. For instance, Valor's mention that hearing foxes cry made her think of a woman being murdered had me thinking — and they do! There was also a nice touch with Lady Marchfield mentioning Mr. Twining for the best tea.
There were a few drawbacks if I had to nitpick. I noticed some repeated words and phrases, sometimes even in the same sentence. Also, I felt there should have been more showing than telling in certain places, it would have been better to discover the character's revelations with them.
📚 The Story: Searching About
There are three primary PoV's, the first being Valor: the titular Lady Fearful. As her name suggests, she is fearful and easily startled, and after spending years keeping her sisters from marrying to no avail, has a particular quiet life she's looking for now that it's her turn.
In comes Weston, her father the Duke's heir. He seems ideal except for his nonsensical habit of driving his stoop (which I think is a boat) to harass French ships. This causes such a fuss that he's told to lay low, as there might be a spy about. Not sure what to do next, he's conveniently invited to London by the Duke, so he and Ledderbey his guardian, set off to Town, and while there he meets Valor, and his feelings on marriage shift. However, he has a rival in the Count Damiano di Compressio of Sardinia. He's come to England to find out about the "Mosquito"—the name they've given to the one harassing their ships and to find a bride and only a duke's daughter will do.
The story ramps up as Weston and Damiano vie for Valor's favor while searching for their quarries. All the while the lady in question is trying to figure out which of these gentlemen will give her the quiet life she longs for.
💡Themes: Growing Up
It's scary growing up, and it doesn't all happen when we're teens. Growing as a person can happen anytime. Finding out who you are in the present and what you can be capable of is what Valor finds for herself over the course of the book. She doesn't need to be loud or confident; a little bit of courage can go a long way.
Weston also does a lot of growing. His journey is more of a question of what he needs rather than what he wants. He wants to serve his country by harassing the ships, but his guardian, Ledderbey, reminds him of his duty to family. Once he meets, Valor must decide between duty or desire.
👥 Characters
Valor: Most wouldn't sympathize would her, but I did.
Weston: I liked his relationship with Ledderbey, and his interaction with Letitia was funny.
Damiano: His disdain for England is apparent. His quote,
Letitia: She surprised me. I'd thought she was a little over the top, wondering if she was putting it on for some reason, which is explained later.
Mrs. Right: She was a laugh! Her habit of going out of her way to get rid of butlers, and then to be done in by the latest one doing the wrong things was hilarious, and her relationship with the Nicolets was heartwarming with them considering her family.
The Duke: He's wonderfully eccentric, the kind of father that's rare for the time, especially as a Duke with so many daughters.
(Side Note: There's a character, Sir Peter Parker. I think he's only mentioned twice, and that was twice that I pictured the more popular Peter Parker — Spiderman).
✔️ Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a fun, easy Regency with a dash of intrigue, try this out. You don't have to read the rest of the series, though I look forward to reading the previous books now! ☺️.
I don't read historical romance often, but I decided to pick this one up upon seeing the title 'Lady Fearful' by Kate Archer.
✍🏽📖 The Reading Experience
This is the 7th book in the series, and the first one I've read and as such I can say that this reads as a standalone. There's enough exposition and cameos from our main character Valor's sisters and their husbands to hint at past events. The backstory delivered without too much info-dumping.
The descriptions were engaging. For instance, Valor's mention that hearing foxes cry made her think of a woman being murdered had me thinking — and they do! There was also a nice touch with Lady Marchfield mentioning Mr. Twining for the best tea.
There were a few drawbacks if I had to nitpick. I noticed some repeated words and phrases, sometimes even in the same sentence. Also, I felt there should have been more showing than telling in certain places, it would have been better to discover the character's revelations with them.
📚 The Story: Searching About
There are three primary PoV's, the first being Valor: the titular Lady Fearful. As her name suggests, she is fearful and easily startled, and after spending years keeping her sisters from marrying to no avail, has a particular quiet life she's looking for now that it's her turn.
In comes Weston, her father the Duke's heir. He seems ideal except for his nonsensical habit of driving his stoop (which I think is a boat) to harass French ships. This causes such a fuss that he's told to lay low, as there might be a spy about. Not sure what to do next, he's conveniently invited to London by the Duke, so he and Ledderbey his guardian, set off to Town, and while there he meets Valor, and his feelings on marriage shift. However, he has a rival in the Count Damiano di Compressio of Sardinia. He's come to England to find out about the "Mosquito"—the name they've given to the one harassing their ships and to find a bride and only a duke's daughter will do.
The story ramps up as Weston and Damiano vie for Valor's favor while searching for their quarries. All the while the lady in question is trying to figure out which of these gentlemen will give her the quiet life she longs for.
💡Themes: Growing Up
It's scary growing up, and it doesn't all happen when we're teens. Growing as a person can happen anytime. Finding out who you are in the present and what you can be capable of is what Valor finds for herself over the course of the book. She doesn't need to be loud or confident; a little bit of courage can go a long way.
Weston also does a lot of growing. His journey is more of a question of what he needs rather than what he wants. He wants to serve his country by harassing the ships, but his guardian, Ledderbey, reminds him of his duty to family. Once he meets, Valor must decide between duty or desire.
👥 Characters
Valor: Most wouldn't sympathize would her, but I did.
'She'd never wished to be out, she wished to be in'Is a quote that speaks to me, I would be just as reluctant! Relatable to those of us who prefer staying inside to going out.
Weston: I liked his relationship with Ledderbey, and his interaction with Letitia was funny.
Damiano: His disdain for England is apparent. His quote,
"Who on earth enjoyed English weather? Mother Nature seemed to glare down at this spot of the world and order more rain, and then more rain again. That rain was reliably cold. The sun appeared very reluctant to ever make an appearance"- is unfortunately accurate. As an Englishwoman myself, I want to defend old Blighty, but I can't; we are the land where people complain when it pours rain then complain again when the sun beams down!
Letitia: She surprised me. I'd thought she was a little over the top, wondering if she was putting it on for some reason, which is explained later.
Mrs. Right: She was a laugh! Her habit of going out of her way to get rid of butlers, and then to be done in by the latest one doing the wrong things was hilarious, and her relationship with the Nicolets was heartwarming with them considering her family.
The Duke: He's wonderfully eccentric, the kind of father that's rare for the time, especially as a Duke with so many daughters.
(Side Note: There's a character, Sir Peter Parker. I think he's only mentioned twice, and that was twice that I pictured the more popular Peter Parker — Spiderman).
✔️ Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a fun, easy Regency with a dash of intrigue, try this out. You don't have to read the rest of the series, though I look forward to reading the previous books now! ☺️.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 2, 2025
Book seven, the final book in the ‘Senseless complications’ series is here! I have enjoyed every single one of them so I’m glad to read another book in this series and gladly share my review.
Book 7 is about lady Valor, the youngest of the daughters of the Duke of Pelham. The one who was always trying to scare off possible suitors of her sisters and forever dragging mrs. Wendover along; her stuffed rabbit. The stuffed rabbit is gone because she’s finally all grown up and I was looking forward to reading her story. And also seeing how all the familiar elements in this book will be concluded. Well, as expected, Kate Archer didn’t disappoint!
As always, the prologue gets you in the mood right away and you continue reading with a huge smile on your face. All the known characters are back, albeit a bit more matured and wiser, as they should be. Valor, too, grew up; no longer scared of everything but now she’s cautious.
Kate Archer does a wonderful job combining the well known strengths of this series with new, refreshing elements so that it’s not like you’re rereading a previous book in another setting. I really enjoyed the characters in this one, I really loved Valor and Weston.
Of course there’s again a hero and a villain, but I really liked the plot of this book: The hero is forever harassing the French enemy’s fleet and the villain is a spy, tasked with finding out whoever is behind this. Of course both men have set their sights on Valor, who expectedly thinks the villain is the better match for her, although she’s drawn to Weston, the hero. But luckily this time Mrs. Right was indeed right because she suspected him of playing a part.
This book made me laugh so much… The candlelight picnic, Pelham’s Pirates and of course the duke, whom I liked more and more while reading this series. He’s very jolly but certainly not a fool. There’s also again an elderly figure to act as a companion to the hero; this time it’s the bookish Mr. Ledderbey. I think all these characters act as a great addition to the main character, providing wisdom and often a humorous note to the story.
Everything in this series is wrapped up perfectly: the whole butler debacle; Mrs. Right; Thomas and Charlie’s dream of owning a tavern, and especially Valor’s lovestory to Weston, Viscount Tramondeley. I think this book is my favorite book out of all seven books. I enjoyed it immensely. I just feel it was a bit weird to have Valor fall in live with her cousin. I know it was custom in that era to marry off relatives but I would’ve liked Weston to be a more distant relative. But that’s all I can comment on since everything in the book was so, so entertaining and such a joy to read.
You can read this book as a standalone but I can highly recommend you read all of them since every book will make you fall in love with the characters even more, and they’re all truly fabulous.
I am immensely grateful to Kate Archer for writing this series and want to thank Kate, Dragonblade Publishing for providing me with an advanced reading copy. Kate Archer is an incredibly talented author who never disappoints. I can’t wait for her next series!
Book 7 is about lady Valor, the youngest of the daughters of the Duke of Pelham. The one who was always trying to scare off possible suitors of her sisters and forever dragging mrs. Wendover along; her stuffed rabbit. The stuffed rabbit is gone because she’s finally all grown up and I was looking forward to reading her story. And also seeing how all the familiar elements in this book will be concluded. Well, as expected, Kate Archer didn’t disappoint!
As always, the prologue gets you in the mood right away and you continue reading with a huge smile on your face. All the known characters are back, albeit a bit more matured and wiser, as they should be. Valor, too, grew up; no longer scared of everything but now she’s cautious.
Kate Archer does a wonderful job combining the well known strengths of this series with new, refreshing elements so that it’s not like you’re rereading a previous book in another setting. I really enjoyed the characters in this one, I really loved Valor and Weston.
Of course there’s again a hero and a villain, but I really liked the plot of this book: The hero is forever harassing the French enemy’s fleet and the villain is a spy, tasked with finding out whoever is behind this. Of course both men have set their sights on Valor, who expectedly thinks the villain is the better match for her, although she’s drawn to Weston, the hero. But luckily this time Mrs. Right was indeed right because she suspected him of playing a part.
This book made me laugh so much… The candlelight picnic, Pelham’s Pirates and of course the duke, whom I liked more and more while reading this series. He’s very jolly but certainly not a fool. There’s also again an elderly figure to act as a companion to the hero; this time it’s the bookish Mr. Ledderbey. I think all these characters act as a great addition to the main character, providing wisdom and often a humorous note to the story.
Everything in this series is wrapped up perfectly: the whole butler debacle; Mrs. Right; Thomas and Charlie’s dream of owning a tavern, and especially Valor’s lovestory to Weston, Viscount Tramondeley. I think this book is my favorite book out of all seven books. I enjoyed it immensely. I just feel it was a bit weird to have Valor fall in live with her cousin. I know it was custom in that era to marry off relatives but I would’ve liked Weston to be a more distant relative. But that’s all I can comment on since everything in the book was so, so entertaining and such a joy to read.
You can read this book as a standalone but I can highly recommend you read all of them since every book will make you fall in love with the characters even more, and they’re all truly fabulous.
I am immensely grateful to Kate Archer for writing this series and want to thank Kate, Dragonblade Publishing for providing me with an advanced reading copy. Kate Archer is an incredibly talented author who never disappoints. I can’t wait for her next series!
January 7, 2026
In this delightfully light hearted look at love and marriage, Regency Style, Roland Nicolet, the Duke of Pelham, is about to launch his very reluctant daughter Valor onto the marriage market and is considering he has done well, as she is his seventh and last daughter to be wed.
Valor has been scheming for months to try and avoid going to town but realises nothing is going to work. She eventually decides that she will go, if only to see her sisters and their offspring once again. Marriage is certainly not in her plans at all, no matter what her father may think.
Weston Nicolet, heir to the Dukedom is a man who lives life on the edge, using his carefully designed sloop Amelia to harass the French vessels off the coast of Cornwall, also collecting information for the Admiralty on French movements along the coast.
He finds that he needs to stop his nocturnal activities and also has been invited to London for the season by none other than the Duke, Roland Nicolet. He takes up the offer and so begins a voyage into the unknown that he finds proves far more challenging that his nocturnal activities.
Meeting Valor, he realises she could be the woman for him, but she seems to be afraid or cautious about most things in life. She is also being wooed by a Sardinian Conte, Damiano Verdiccio, a man with more than winning a wife of the Dukal level on his mind.
As the pages of Lady Fearful turn and the days pass, a merry old dance occurs across the dance floors of the Season, a most dreadful woman Lady Letitia seems to be everywhere as well, adding to the general confusion and Valor realises ghat perhaps she is falling in love with Weston, but only if he will give up his dangerous pursuits.
Lady Fearful is perfect for spending an afternoon without taxing the brain in a Regency Romance that sees Valor and Weston do their best to fall in love in very gentle or should one say genteel manner with a little bit of danger thrown in for good measure. A fun read.
Valor has been scheming for months to try and avoid going to town but realises nothing is going to work. She eventually decides that she will go, if only to see her sisters and their offspring once again. Marriage is certainly not in her plans at all, no matter what her father may think.
Weston Nicolet, heir to the Dukedom is a man who lives life on the edge, using his carefully designed sloop Amelia to harass the French vessels off the coast of Cornwall, also collecting information for the Admiralty on French movements along the coast.
He finds that he needs to stop his nocturnal activities and also has been invited to London for the season by none other than the Duke, Roland Nicolet. He takes up the offer and so begins a voyage into the unknown that he finds proves far more challenging that his nocturnal activities.
Meeting Valor, he realises she could be the woman for him, but she seems to be afraid or cautious about most things in life. She is also being wooed by a Sardinian Conte, Damiano Verdiccio, a man with more than winning a wife of the Dukal level on his mind.
As the pages of Lady Fearful turn and the days pass, a merry old dance occurs across the dance floors of the Season, a most dreadful woman Lady Letitia seems to be everywhere as well, adding to the general confusion and Valor realises ghat perhaps she is falling in love with Weston, but only if he will give up his dangerous pursuits.
Lady Fearful is perfect for spending an afternoon without taxing the brain in a Regency Romance that sees Valor and Weston do their best to fall in love in very gentle or should one say genteel manner with a little bit of danger thrown in for good measure. A fun read.
January 20, 2026
I was looking forward to this last tale in the series. The youngest sister was someone who featured very interestingly in all her sisters books( at least the ones I have read). She was hilarious without meaning to be.
I think the cousin thing turns me off pretty quickly even if it was a done thing then. Also, with the good buildup with the previous ones I read, my bar was set pretty high. Also it’s been fun to see how the eccentric family and their individual issues were dealt with. Valor did not seem to be that fearful when she went out of her way to scare away potential brothers-in- law but she’s supposedly turned into one as she grew up.
For herself, our leading lady wants someone sedate with mild hobbies. It is only when faced with the alternative that she starts questioning her options. The general cast and conversations continued to be in the same vein as the previous books, making it easy to finish.
If it was not for the random conversations and the fun writing, I might have disliked the book for all the reasons previously mentioned. I would like to try more books by the author if I get the chance.
I would definitely recommend this series to fans of the genre.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
P.S: My long lists should continue after a day or two one I get a chance to work on a laptop instead of my phone!
I think the cousin thing turns me off pretty quickly even if it was a done thing then. Also, with the good buildup with the previous ones I read, my bar was set pretty high. Also it’s been fun to see how the eccentric family and their individual issues were dealt with. Valor did not seem to be that fearful when she went out of her way to scare away potential brothers-in- law but she’s supposedly turned into one as she grew up.
For herself, our leading lady wants someone sedate with mild hobbies. It is only when faced with the alternative that she starts questioning her options. The general cast and conversations continued to be in the same vein as the previous books, making it easy to finish.
If it was not for the random conversations and the fun writing, I might have disliked the book for all the reasons previously mentioned. I would like to try more books by the author if I get the chance.
I would definitely recommend this series to fans of the genre.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
P.S: My long lists should continue after a day or two one I get a chance to work on a laptop instead of my phone!
February 1, 2026
This was such a charming, low-stress historical romance. I went in expecting a light opposites-attract setup and that’s exactly what I got.
Lady Valor is honestly delightful. She’s timid, risk-averse, and so committed to staying safe that she once pretended to be consumptive just to avoid society (which made me laugh). Her plan to find a perfectly harmless husband—preferably one who collects something quiet and non-threatening—is both relatable and very on-brand for her.
Weston, on the other hand, is out here sailing at night and poking French frigates for fun. He’s practical, a little reckless, and deeply uncomfortable with London society, which makes his forced move to Grosvenor Square a fun setup. Watching these two collide was half the joy of the book.
The romance is gentle and slow, driven more by personal growth than big dramatic twists. I really liked how both characters had to rethink their ideas about safety, courage, and what a good life actually looks like. The tone stays light, with a lot of dry humor and affectionate teasing rather than angst.
Overall, this was an easy, cozy read with likable characters and a sweet message about balance—between caution and courage, comfort and adventure. Perfect if you’re in the mood for a quiet historical romance that still has a bit of sparkle.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Lady Valor is honestly delightful. She’s timid, risk-averse, and so committed to staying safe that she once pretended to be consumptive just to avoid society (which made me laugh). Her plan to find a perfectly harmless husband—preferably one who collects something quiet and non-threatening—is both relatable and very on-brand for her.
Weston, on the other hand, is out here sailing at night and poking French frigates for fun. He’s practical, a little reckless, and deeply uncomfortable with London society, which makes his forced move to Grosvenor Square a fun setup. Watching these two collide was half the joy of the book.
The romance is gentle and slow, driven more by personal growth than big dramatic twists. I really liked how both characters had to rethink their ideas about safety, courage, and what a good life actually looks like. The tone stays light, with a lot of dry humor and affectionate teasing rather than angst.
Overall, this was an easy, cozy read with likable characters and a sweet message about balance—between caution and courage, comfort and adventure. Perfect if you’re in the mood for a quiet historical romance that still has a bit of sparkle.
I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing and am voluntarily leaving my review.
January 26, 2026
The last Nicolet to be launched into society is Lady Valor Nicolet, the Duke of Pelham's youngest who happens to be very fearful as the title suggests. She has tried over the past couple of books to convince her father that she can be his hostess - going so far as to order clothes for an older woman to be taken more seriously.
In this we finally meet the Duke of Pelham's heir apparent, Weston Nicolet, Viscount Tamondeley, who has been harassing the French off the coast of Cornwall and has been highly successful doing so. Unfortunately, his many years of doing so has brought to the attention of the French and his “commander in chief” suggests that Weston move out of his home and find another place to live for a while to throw the French off his scent. The Duke of Pelham decides to invite his heir to London to get to know the family and goes so far as to rent Weston a town house close to the duke’s own residence and invites him to dine with the family when in London.
Damiano Verdiccio, the Conte di Conpressio is himself seeking the identity of the man who has been harassing the French ships off the coast of Cornwall, so things get a little dicey. He is also interested in Valor. This one fell short for me a little, not as good as the others in the series. I received an ARC from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.
In this we finally meet the Duke of Pelham's heir apparent, Weston Nicolet, Viscount Tamondeley, who has been harassing the French off the coast of Cornwall and has been highly successful doing so. Unfortunately, his many years of doing so has brought to the attention of the French and his “commander in chief” suggests that Weston move out of his home and find another place to live for a while to throw the French off his scent. The Duke of Pelham decides to invite his heir to London to get to know the family and goes so far as to rent Weston a town house close to the duke’s own residence and invites him to dine with the family when in London.
Damiano Verdiccio, the Conte di Conpressio is himself seeking the identity of the man who has been harassing the French ships off the coast of Cornwall, so things get a little dicey. He is also interested in Valor. This one fell short for me a little, not as good as the others in the series. I received an ARC from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.
November 26, 2025
Delightful end to the series.
Lady Valor has resisted growing up with all her might, even feigning consumption to try and avoid the fate of her sisters. However finally seeing that all things being equal she will outlive her father and Mrs Right, she gradually matures and starts to wish for children of her own. For that of course she will need a husband and decides that her ideal match will be a quiet, gentle but protective individual. Perhaps a baron with staid habits and no ambition save for his collection of books or insects. So it is rather unfortunate that she is drawn towards a handsome young man who has spent the last couple of years harrying the French fleet, at night, in his sloop. He will never do, she wouldn’t get a wink of sleep!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Lady Valor has resisted growing up with all her might, even feigning consumption to try and avoid the fate of her sisters. However finally seeing that all things being equal she will outlive her father and Mrs Right, she gradually matures and starts to wish for children of her own. For that of course she will need a husband and decides that her ideal match will be a quiet, gentle but protective individual. Perhaps a baron with staid habits and no ambition save for his collection of books or insects. So it is rather unfortunate that she is drawn towards a handsome young man who has spent the last couple of years harrying the French fleet, at night, in his sloop. He will never do, she wouldn’t get a wink of sleep!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lady Fearful is the last book of 7 in the A Series of Senseless Complications series. It is a stand-alone read.
The series has been fantastic until this one. This is good, but I was left wanting something more from Lady Valor. The entire series, she has been outspoken about her fears. Her antics were entertaining. Now she is of age and much of what I loved about Lady Valor seems to be missing. I liked the characters, But it felt different than the others. Even Lady Misery was lacking in her usual disagreeable self.
I understand we were wrapping up the series, but I was left wanting more instead of feeling as if the story was resolved.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
The series has been fantastic until this one. This is good, but I was left wanting something more from Lady Valor. The entire series, she has been outspoken about her fears. Her antics were entertaining. Now she is of age and much of what I loved about Lady Valor seems to be missing. I liked the characters, But it felt different than the others. Even Lady Misery was lacking in her usual disagreeable self.
I understand we were wrapping up the series, but I was left wanting more instead of feeling as if the story was resolved.
I received an ARC from NetGalley for an unbiased review.
January 6, 2026
Sometimes what we need is not what we want, and Lady Valor can find no recourse other than to accompany her father to London and to take her place on the marriage mart. Seemingly finding an easy solution to her quandary turns out to be the wrong choice, and the one that finally captures her heart is the most dangerous of all. However, Weston is more cognizant of Valor's needs than she realizes, and ultimately she discovers that she is willing to set aside some of her qualms to stand by his side. The novel concludes in a surprising manner, with more than one mystery solved. I received a copy of this romance as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley, and this is my honest and voluntary review.
November 26, 2025
Such a delightful adventurous end to the series! Valor has been a star in every book of the series and now she gets her own story. I was unsure how her story would be told, but it is so sweet. Valor is still fearful, but she has decided that marriage may be interesting even if she might be stared at by her husband at night! I loved how memorable previous passages of her sisters were brought back in. I greatly enjoyed Weston and Ledderbey. They add joy to the story. lady Leticia is a hoot! The intrigue and the subterfuge is delightful. And the epilogue wraps the whole series up in such a satisfying way. I have loved this series, and this final book delighted me!
November 29, 2025
Thank you Net Galley. This has been such a great series and now the last of his daughters is going to have her season. She didn't want to leave her father, the Duke alone but he encourages to go. On the way they meet a man who is going to London too. The Count is looking for a bride, daughter of a Duke. Weston is also going to London to find a bride and he is a nephew of the Duke and will inherit from her father since he only had daughters. The Duke rents Weston a house directly across from his. Valor seems to be interested in only these two men. I really enjoyed the story. Valor has the same problem she has had through out her life.
December 23, 2025
Lady Fearful
As the beloved series draws to a close, I find myself mourning its conclusion. The narrative was peppered with delightful moments of genuine humor that consistently brought a smile to my face. The Duke, with his endearing quirks, emerged as a wonderfully authentic character who transcended typical aristocratic stereotypes. Despite his noble status, he remained refreshingly genuine and approachable. Valor, a young protagonist with an extraordinary spirit, captivated readers with her bold and sometimes shocking observations. Her fearfulness was beautifully balanced by her precocious nature, creating a complex and memorable character that leaped off the page.
As the beloved series draws to a close, I find myself mourning its conclusion. The narrative was peppered with delightful moments of genuine humor that consistently brought a smile to my face. The Duke, with his endearing quirks, emerged as a wonderfully authentic character who transcended typical aristocratic stereotypes. Despite his noble status, he remained refreshingly genuine and approachable. Valor, a young protagonist with an extraordinary spirit, captivated readers with her bold and sometimes shocking observations. Her fearfulness was beautifully balanced by her precocious nature, creating a complex and memorable character that leaped off the page.
January 4, 2026
The last book of a phenomenal series. The Duke is marrying off his last daughter. Mrs. Right's butler issues become fully cleared up and the fun family is full of life and adventures again.
Fantastic characters, including the villain who you will love to yell at Valor about. A touch of a mystery. Twists and turns with French enemies. Great wisdom from older characters and of course so much fun with the Duke, himself, as the non conformist father of six girls. I laughed until my sides hurt. My favorite of the series, however I strongly recommend reading all of them in order to gain the most enjoyment.
Fantastic characters, including the villain who you will love to yell at Valor about. A touch of a mystery. Twists and turns with French enemies. Great wisdom from older characters and of course so much fun with the Duke, himself, as the non conformist father of six girls. I laughed until my sides hurt. My favorite of the series, however I strongly recommend reading all of them in order to gain the most enjoyment.
November 28, 2025
This was the story of the last of the Duke of Pelhams daughters to leave the nest and marry.
As usual it is a story filled with other dramas of French spies and dodgy butlers.
It all ended well with everybody but the spy Happy and I look forward to the tales of the grand kids trials of romance that I hope the,author will continue with.
I would really recommend this series it is filled with funny events.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade for my arc copy
As usual it is a story filled with other dramas of French spies and dodgy butlers.
It all ended well with everybody but the spy Happy and I look forward to the tales of the grand kids trials of romance that I hope the,author will continue with.
I would really recommend this series it is filled with funny events.
Thanks to Netgalley and Dragonblade for my arc copy
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2025
Fun, Witty, Entertaining Read.
The last book of this series is just as entertaining as the first. Lady Valor gets her man amidst the mad antics that goes on with this family. Add in some spying and wonderful characters, you’ll find yourself laughing as this wonderful storyline unfolds.
This book compliments all the series and the epilogue is a perfect way to finish off any loose ends and complete their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
The last book of this series is just as entertaining as the first. Lady Valor gets her man amidst the mad antics that goes on with this family. Add in some spying and wonderful characters, you’ll find yourself laughing as this wonderful storyline unfolds.
This book compliments all the series and the epilogue is a perfect way to finish off any loose ends and complete their HEA.
I voluntarily read and reviewed this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
December 20, 2025
Another Delightful Book!
I was so wondering how Valor would find her man. I did not realize how scared she was of everything, lol. I enjoy how it is light and so that I don't need to speed read through anxiety inducing parts. I so look forward to each book this author shares. They really are delightful, palette cleansing, enjoyable, and I cannot wait for more! Will there be a series on the Pelham's Pirates? I am curious as to how they end up, they seem so fun!
I was so wondering how Valor would find her man. I did not realize how scared she was of everything, lol. I enjoy how it is light and so that I don't need to speed read through anxiety inducing parts. I so look forward to each book this author shares. They really are delightful, palette cleansing, enjoyable, and I cannot wait for more! Will there be a series on the Pelham's Pirates? I am curious as to how they end up, they seem so fun!
December 25, 2025
This is the last book in the series, but for me, it’s the first book I have read. It was an easy book to read as a standalone. It was a delightful story with some nice twists and turns. There was, of course, lots of romance, with mystery, suspense and humor. The characters where well written and the story flowed well. I received this as an ARC from Netgalley and freely give my review.
December 31, 2025
Wonderful series!
I can't remember when I have enjoyed a series of books so much! All the sisters and their future husbands were delightful and I thoroughly enjoyed the Duke of Pelham. And one can not overlook the formidable Mrs Wright. Each book had me laughing, such witty banter and original characters!
I can't remember when I have enjoyed a series of books so much! All the sisters and their future husbands were delightful and I thoroughly enjoyed the Duke of Pelham. And one can not overlook the formidable Mrs Wright. Each book had me laughing, such witty banter and original characters!
December 22, 2025
A Perfect End
The book is the perfect ending to a warm, witty, wonderful series. If I lived in the Regency era, this is the family I would want to be mine. Hope Kate Archer will write lots more books.
The book is the perfect ending to a warm, witty, wonderful series. If I lived in the Regency era, this is the family I would want to be mine. Hope Kate Archer will write lots more books.
December 25, 2025
What a great ending to this series. I was so excited for it but also didn’t want it to end. I recommend each book. They are crazy, unbelievable, hilarious, heartwarming and romance abounds. Can’t wait for her next series now. (:
December 30, 2025
End of the line.
The last of the seven daughters is finally, still somewhat reluctantly having her season. Before it’s over, a spy, intrigue and attempted murder must be dealt with.
The last of the seven daughters is finally, still somewhat reluctantly having her season. Before it’s over, a spy, intrigue and attempted murder must be dealt with.
January 13, 2026
Brilliant end to the series ! My favourite character finally gets her HEA, the Duke finally gets a butler and all’s well that ends well!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2025
Unfortunately for us this is the last book in a wonderful series. I have read all of them and each one has been very funny. Our heroine this time has tried her best to avoid the season her father is determined she have. The very idea of what is to come, terrifies her.
Our hero has had an unusual upbringing for a duke's heir. There's is a very good reason for that. Our eccentric duke has got his way, but will still confound society.
More similar please author.
Great fun.
Our hero has had an unusual upbringing for a duke's heir. There's is a very good reason for that. Our eccentric duke has got his way, but will still confound society.
More similar please author.
Great fun.
January 19, 2026
Lady Valor is my favorite of the Nicolet sisters and I couldn't wait for her book. As I was reading her father explain about his heir, I thought, I wonder..... yes! Of course he's going to to be the man for Valor! Tramondeley is a spy by night and doesn't like her father, the Duke, but doesn't really have a good reason why. Just rumors. He soon finds out that the gossip is wrong and this is a very welcoming family.
And Lady Misery's eternal quest to set her brother up with a butler. This latest one's a doozy. I laughed several times. A great series and a great book to end it up nicely. I was hoping Roland would get his own book, but at least he gets a HEA too.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
And Lady Misery's eternal quest to set her brother up with a butler. This latest one's a doozy. I laughed several times. A great series and a great book to end it up nicely. I was hoping Roland would get his own book, but at least he gets a HEA too.
Thank you to Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
February 10, 2026
Valor did not remind me much of the girl we met in the previous books. I also missed the signature humour.
I know Lady L is supposed to be comic relief, but I found her just annoying.
I was happy with how things ended for everyone, and I’m looking forward to the author’s new series. Each one is better than the last!
I know Lady L is supposed to be comic relief, but I found her just annoying.
I was happy with how things ended for everyone, and I’m looking forward to the author’s new series. Each one is better than the last!
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