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The Daring Damsels #3
A Most Peculiar Courtship
Two enemies, one arranged marriage, endless possibilities.
Amelia Thornton never expected her wedding day to involve quite so many tears—her own. Married to the notorious Marquess of Hereford in a business arrangement that benefits everyone except her heart, she's determined to keep her distance from the insufferable rake. But Charles has an annoying habit of appearing when she least wants him. When her investigation into dangerous factory conditions leads her straight into the arms of a monster from her past, Amelia discovers that her scandalous husband might be the only man brave enough to help her seek justice—if she can resist falling for his unexpected kindness first.
Charles Bartholomew Hereford has perfected the art of living down to society's expectations, but his sharp-tongued wife sees right through his carefully constructed facade. The brilliant writer who compared his moral compass to a weathervane is driving him to distraction with her stubborn refusal to accept his protection. Between her mysterious late-night disappearances, her talent for attracting dangerous enemies, and the way she makes his pulse race during their fencing lessons, Charles finds himself fighting battles on multiple fronts. When Amelia's crusade for workers' rights puts her in mortal danger, he'll have to choose between maintaining his reputation as London's most notorious rake and becoming the hero she never knew she needed.
Can a marriage born of convenience survive the scandal of falling desperately in love?
Tropes you'll Enemies to lovers Marriage of convenience Forced proximity Grumpy/Sunshine with a twist Hidden identity / Secret life Touch her and die
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
The Daring Damsels
Book 1 - Touched by a Traitor
Book 2 - A Literary Liaison
Book 3 - A Most Peculiar Courtship
Amelia Thornton never expected her wedding day to involve quite so many tears—her own. Married to the notorious Marquess of Hereford in a business arrangement that benefits everyone except her heart, she's determined to keep her distance from the insufferable rake. But Charles has an annoying habit of appearing when she least wants him. When her investigation into dangerous factory conditions leads her straight into the arms of a monster from her past, Amelia discovers that her scandalous husband might be the only man brave enough to help her seek justice—if she can resist falling for his unexpected kindness first.
Charles Bartholomew Hereford has perfected the art of living down to society's expectations, but his sharp-tongued wife sees right through his carefully constructed facade. The brilliant writer who compared his moral compass to a weathervane is driving him to distraction with her stubborn refusal to accept his protection. Between her mysterious late-night disappearances, her talent for attracting dangerous enemies, and the way she makes his pulse race during their fencing lessons, Charles finds himself fighting battles on multiple fronts. When Amelia's crusade for workers' rights puts her in mortal danger, he'll have to choose between maintaining his reputation as London's most notorious rake and becoming the hero she never knew she needed.
Can a marriage born of convenience survive the scandal of falling desperately in love?
Tropes you'll Enemies to lovers Marriage of convenience Forced proximity Grumpy/Sunshine with a twist Hidden identity / Secret life Touch her and die
Read in Kindle Unlimited!
The Daring Damsels
Book 1 - Touched by a Traitor
Book 2 - A Literary Liaison
Book 3 - A Most Peculiar Courtship
- GenresEnemies To Lovers
286 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 8, 2026
14 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
Mihwa Lee
21 books77 followersMihwa spent three decades as a medical expert witness specializing in brain injury—a career built on precision, high stakes, and unflinching detail. Then her young daughter developed an insatiable appetite for bedtime stories, and Mihwa discovered she could spin new ones on the spot, endlessly, a habit that hasn't stopped since.
She has published spicy historical romance novels, both through self-publishing and Dragonblade publishing. Her fans say they come for the uniqueness and humour but stay for the emotional resonance.
Mihwa also writes across genres and is represented by literary and film agents at Jabberwocky Literary Agency.
Despite all this, she is primarily known as Birth Giver who deep cleans, Birth Giver who counsels at 2 a.m., a short-order cook, and short.
She has published spicy historical romance novels, both through self-publishing and Dragonblade publishing. Her fans say they come for the uniqueness and humour but stay for the emotional resonance.
Mihwa also writes across genres and is represented by literary and film agents at Jabberwocky Literary Agency.
Despite all this, she is primarily known as Birth Giver who deep cleans, Birth Giver who counsels at 2 a.m., a short-order cook, and short.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Maimed by a terrible factory accident at 14, Amelia grew up to become a driven journalist and fierce workers’ rights advocate. Now, running her own newspaper, her critical pen is often aimed at the ton’s feckless noblemen too greedy and uncaring to stand up for the little man – and Charles is her favourite bullseye!
Blessed with a title, dashing looks, charm, wealth and power this lazy arse rake would rather bed his way through Society than devote even a fraction of his influence to making a difference – or so she believes... but first looks can be deceiving!
When a deal that could change endless lives for the better, is blocked because of Amelia’s brother’s lack of title, both she and Charles are strongarmed into a contractual marriage with a one-year expiration date.
I’ll let you find out the details; just know their union soon turns into bittersweet torture. Charles is nothing like she thought, and he isn’t afraid to use his entire arsenal to prove just how wrong she was. Yes, our fake himbo has the hots for his wife! And she isn’t all that immune 😉
Fencing lessons, ballroom buffering, ghost pain assistance, small gestures and shameless seduction combined with risky snooping, uncanny discoveries, circling vultures, frustration and an ever-growing attraction.
This was an addictive, socially engaged, sizzling enemies-to-lovers delight with an intriguing investigation the side. With everything else going on, I loved how focussed it remained on the MCs and their individual way of facing the figurative enemy.
These are both wonderfully complex and flawed MCs, passionate about their causes, but in very different ways. They meet halfway; she reluctantly and he in a more deliberately. She’s mule-headed, but not unreasonable, and his hidden depths are simply exquisite! So refreshing to get an MMC who blossoms for once! It’s not exactly hidden, still, the way his true nature is revealed was absolutely marvellous and enchanting. Charles is a true gem! I’ll happily admit to falling hard for him right along Amelia.
And the little sideline plot with the salacious stories; delectable!
Blessed with a title, dashing looks, charm, wealth and power this lazy arse rake would rather bed his way through Society than devote even a fraction of his influence to making a difference – or so she believes... but first looks can be deceiving!
When a deal that could change endless lives for the better, is blocked because of Amelia’s brother’s lack of title, both she and Charles are strongarmed into a contractual marriage with a one-year expiration date.
I’ll let you find out the details; just know their union soon turns into bittersweet torture. Charles is nothing like she thought, and he isn’t afraid to use his entire arsenal to prove just how wrong she was. Yes, our fake himbo has the hots for his wife! And she isn’t all that immune 😉
Fencing lessons, ballroom buffering, ghost pain assistance, small gestures and shameless seduction combined with risky snooping, uncanny discoveries, circling vultures, frustration and an ever-growing attraction.
This was an addictive, socially engaged, sizzling enemies-to-lovers delight with an intriguing investigation the side. With everything else going on, I loved how focussed it remained on the MCs and their individual way of facing the figurative enemy.
These are both wonderfully complex and flawed MCs, passionate about their causes, but in very different ways. They meet halfway; she reluctantly and he in a more deliberately. She’s mule-headed, but not unreasonable, and his hidden depths are simply exquisite! So refreshing to get an MMC who blossoms for once! It’s not exactly hidden, still, the way his true nature is revealed was absolutely marvellous and enchanting. Charles is a true gem! I’ll happily admit to falling hard for him right along Amelia.
And the little sideline plot with the salacious stories; delectable!
March 25, 2026
Amelia Thornton has full control of the Metropolitan Review. In a necessary move to secure an investment for her brother, Amelia marries Charles, Marquess of Hereford. A conventional marriage, in the contract she will run her newspaper and continue the investigation into her accident years ago in a workhouse. The more she digs for the truth, the more serious the danger. Charles is very protective of his wife and worries for her safety. Amelia is attracted to Charles, but she doesn't trust him. Damning evidence puts their budding relationship in jeopardy.
My favorite book in the series, it's fast paced with descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book from Netgalley.
My favorite book in the series, it's fast paced with descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of the book from Netgalley.
February 21, 2026
Mihwa Lee is becoming one of my favorite HR authors! More detailed review TK.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
When I started this book, I had not read the first 2 in the series, so I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. I did have a little trouble getting into it with the first chapter. The way the story starts with Charles seeking refuge behind Amelia's printing press made me feel like I was missing a backstory. I actually had to stop and go to book 1 just to make sure I wasn't actually missing anything with this particular story. In case you were wondering, this is a standalone story, but I would recommend reading the first 2 books as well. You don't have to in order to understand this book, but the characters from those are in this one as supporting characters. Reading their love stories will help you understand some of the friendships.
Moving on to the actual story, it is definitely not historically accurate, BUT it is entertaining. Charles starts as a hopeless playboy and Amelia is an investigative journalist for a publication she owns. Despite herself, Amelia is intrigued (and irritated) by Charles. There are a few encounters where they swap barbs that make for fabulous banter. To make things more interesting, Charles is friends with Amelia's brother and the MMCs from the first 2 books, and they are investing in a railroad venture together. A wrench gets thrown into their plans when there is a legal issue. For some reason, the fix to this issue is for Charles and Amelia to get married. The make an agreement that they will tolerate each other for a year then if either of them wants to back out, that's fine. Pretty quickly, Charles learns of Amelia's disability and the reason for it (factory accident as a child). She starts working on exposing inhumane treatment in factories and they end up working together. To avoid spoilers, I will leave it there on that front.
I love a strong FMC and I especially love a supportive MMC backing her up. Though they do have a few issues throughout the book (miscommunication/lack of communication trope), they also have quite a bit of chemistry. Amelia refuses to let her disability define her and is extremely stubborn. She won't let herself show any signs of weakness, but Charles has an ability to recognize when she needs something and make it happen without drawing attention to it (for example, placing a foot stool within reach when she's in pain but not forcing her to use it).
I think Lee does an excellent job of giving the reader some spice and an actual plot. The romance does come first, but the storyline gives it a big boost. Charles and Amelia's story is wrapped up in a nice "happy ever after" bow. Please give this a read- you won't be disappointed.
Moving on to the actual story, it is definitely not historically accurate, BUT it is entertaining. Charles starts as a hopeless playboy and Amelia is an investigative journalist for a publication she owns. Despite herself, Amelia is intrigued (and irritated) by Charles. There are a few encounters where they swap barbs that make for fabulous banter. To make things more interesting, Charles is friends with Amelia's brother and the MMCs from the first 2 books, and they are investing in a railroad venture together. A wrench gets thrown into their plans when there is a legal issue. For some reason, the fix to this issue is for Charles and Amelia to get married. The make an agreement that they will tolerate each other for a year then if either of them wants to back out, that's fine. Pretty quickly, Charles learns of Amelia's disability and the reason for it (factory accident as a child). She starts working on exposing inhumane treatment in factories and they end up working together. To avoid spoilers, I will leave it there on that front.
I love a strong FMC and I especially love a supportive MMC backing her up. Though they do have a few issues throughout the book (miscommunication/lack of communication trope), they also have quite a bit of chemistry. Amelia refuses to let her disability define her and is extremely stubborn. She won't let herself show any signs of weakness, but Charles has an ability to recognize when she needs something and make it happen without drawing attention to it (for example, placing a foot stool within reach when she's in pain but not forcing her to use it).
I think Lee does an excellent job of giving the reader some spice and an actual plot. The romance does come first, but the storyline gives it a big boost. Charles and Amelia's story is wrapped up in a nice "happy ever after" bow. Please give this a read- you won't be disappointed.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A one-year marriage deal pairs a principled writer (FMC) with London’s most infamous rake (MMC); then her factory-safety crusade and a monster from her past force Mr. “Moral Weathervane” to either stay scandalous or finally show up as the hero. Also: fencing lessons = thinly disguised feelings.
YAY for
😊 The banter: crisp, fun, and actually lands.
😊 He is very layered: the “notorious rake” persona has real depth underneath.
😊 The ‘we irritate each other while hiding attraction’ dynamic: the tension is chef’s kiss and well sustained.
😊 "Wife" & "you are mine" (dear people, everybody has their own kinks!)
NAY for
🤔 Enemies-to-lovers goes from 0 to 100: the jump felt abrupt, especially given the wedding expiration date (1 year) setup. I wanted more emotional pacing, more friction that earns the switch, and, honestly, more groveling (or at least a clearer accountability beat) before we’re suddenly in swoon territory.
🤔 Slow start / weak early hook: it takes a while to grab. At around 8% I was genuinely tempted to DNF because the story hadn’t yet delivered the spark and stakes it later proves it can. Once it gets moving, it’s rewarding, but the opening could be tighter, punchier, and more immediately this-book’s-vibe.
My Bottom Line & Note for the Author
You absolutely nailed the banter + layered hero + delicious irritation/attraction combo; once it hits, it hits. If you ever revise, consider accelerating the early momentum and building a more satisfying grovel/accountability bridge before the romance escalates. The core ingredients are strong; they just deserve a sharper runway and a sturdier emotional hinge.
YAY for
😊 The banter: crisp, fun, and actually lands.
😊 He is very layered: the “notorious rake” persona has real depth underneath.
😊 The ‘we irritate each other while hiding attraction’ dynamic: the tension is chef’s kiss and well sustained.
😊 "Wife" & "you are mine" (dear people, everybody has their own kinks!)
NAY for
🤔 Enemies-to-lovers goes from 0 to 100: the jump felt abrupt, especially given the wedding expiration date (1 year) setup. I wanted more emotional pacing, more friction that earns the switch, and, honestly, more groveling (or at least a clearer accountability beat) before we’re suddenly in swoon territory.
🤔 Slow start / weak early hook: it takes a while to grab. At around 8% I was genuinely tempted to DNF because the story hadn’t yet delivered the spark and stakes it later proves it can. Once it gets moving, it’s rewarding, but the opening could be tighter, punchier, and more immediately this-book’s-vibe.
My Bottom Line & Note for the Author
You absolutely nailed the banter + layered hero + delicious irritation/attraction combo; once it hits, it hits. If you ever revise, consider accelerating the early momentum and building a more satisfying grovel/accountability bridge before the romance escalates. The core ingredients are strong; they just deserve a sharper runway and a sturdier emotional hinge.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Amelia Thornton is a woman who has overcome great difficulties; as the illegitimate daughter of a nobleman, she worked in a textile factory in her teens. It was there that she was injured and lost part of her leg from the knee down, only to later rise as the editor of a newspaper. What she hasn’t managed to overcome is her growing attraction to the Marquess of Hereford, a notorious rake she has every reason to doubt.
A Most Peculiar Courtship is not the best place to look for historical accuracy; this is an unapologetically fluffy romance. The premise is wildly implausible, the history more suggestive than authentic, and the prose occasionally incorporates phrasing that pulled me out of the period. For all that, the central relationship is enjoyable, the heroine’s arc is satisfying, and the story offers a light, escapist read with a thread of danger.
Amelia is compelling in her boldness, refusing to accept the prescribed limitations on women, particularly a disabled woman. She wants to make a difference while being able to defend herself. Charles, her marquess, seems to only want a worthy focus for his more tender feelings to completely reform. He’s protective, supportive, and passionate.
A Most Peculiar Courtship is a good choice if you’re looking for a lighthearted, romantic, spicy vacation from real-world stress. It’s fun; it’s easy to read; it’s charming.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing for the opportunity to read A Most Peculiar Courtship. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley and am writing this review voluntarily.
A Most Peculiar Courtship is not the best place to look for historical accuracy; this is an unapologetically fluffy romance. The premise is wildly implausible, the history more suggestive than authentic, and the prose occasionally incorporates phrasing that pulled me out of the period. For all that, the central relationship is enjoyable, the heroine’s arc is satisfying, and the story offers a light, escapist read with a thread of danger.
Amelia is compelling in her boldness, refusing to accept the prescribed limitations on women, particularly a disabled woman. She wants to make a difference while being able to defend herself. Charles, her marquess, seems to only want a worthy focus for his more tender feelings to completely reform. He’s protective, supportive, and passionate.
A Most Peculiar Courtship is a good choice if you’re looking for a lighthearted, romantic, spicy vacation from real-world stress. It’s fun; it’s easy to read; it’s charming.
Thank you to Dragonblade Publishing for the opportunity to read A Most Peculiar Courtship. I received a complimentary copy through NetGalley and am writing this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I enjoy Mihwa Lee’s works, but I think is my favorite so far. I adored Amelia and Charles. This was such a unique take on class difference. I love how Ms. Lee incorporates disabilities into her works with such grace and compassion. This one was a slow burn, but it was still charged and engaging all the way through.
Charles made such a dynamic hero. He was multifaceted and captivating. You couldn’t help but be pulled into his rakish charm along with the rest of the ton. 🤭 He was incredibly patient and understanding to Amelia. Even when I felt she overreacted and failed to show Charles grace and understanding, he would get flustered, but he didn’t blow up at her and walk away. He relentlessly pursued Amelia.
Amelia was just as dynamic as Charles. She was quick witted, intelligent, and strong. She had a lot of shame to overcome with her disability, but it was understandable. She was not afraid to go toe to toe with anyone- rank or gender did not matter. She pushed through pain and fought for the less fortunate. There were times I found myself exasperated at her for being so stubborn in her beliefs. There were times I wondered how she would ever overcome her prejudice towards Charles.
Once I reached the end, I realized I would have loved to see more interactions between Charles’ mother and Amelia. I feel like they could have made a most formidable team! Maybe they will show up in another story?!?
Charles made such a dynamic hero. He was multifaceted and captivating. You couldn’t help but be pulled into his rakish charm along with the rest of the ton. 🤭 He was incredibly patient and understanding to Amelia. Even when I felt she overreacted and failed to show Charles grace and understanding, he would get flustered, but he didn’t blow up at her and walk away. He relentlessly pursued Amelia.
Amelia was just as dynamic as Charles. She was quick witted, intelligent, and strong. She had a lot of shame to overcome with her disability, but it was understandable. She was not afraid to go toe to toe with anyone- rank or gender did not matter. She pushed through pain and fought for the less fortunate. There were times I found myself exasperated at her for being so stubborn in her beliefs. There were times I wondered how she would ever overcome her prejudice towards Charles.
Once I reached the end, I realized I would have loved to see more interactions between Charles’ mother and Amelia. I feel like they could have made a most formidable team! Maybe they will show up in another story?!?
February 15, 2026
We have a brilliant, beautiful disabled journalist who has to marry her nemesis to preserve shares in a railway that will change the lives of thousands of people.
This will involve a wedding of her own: Amelia Thornton never expected her wedding day to involve quite so many tears—her own. She is to wed her sparring partner, handsome, brilliant and very rich Marquess Charles Hereford. His reputation does proceed him but there are layers to him and to Amelia they have yet to discover!
Their marriage of convenience is short term but few know of this arrangement but their chemistry and attraction is anything but convenient!
Charles seeks reform by quietly purchasing the factories that are oppressing children!
Amelia’s reform is loud and radical by being extremely vocal in her newspaper The Metropolitan Review! She has dedicated several scathing articles to Charles but not knowing the full content of his character!
Amelia is on a very dangerous path to find the owners of the factory that decided profit over saving her leg! When she unearthed the full story she’s devastated to learn her enemy was so much closer than she ever dreamed!
Charles tried to warm her but she was so sure of her own opinion!
But I love how Charles supports but does not dominant! He is definitely a book boyfriend! When secrets come to life it is truly inspiring! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley for my unbiased opinion!
This will involve a wedding of her own: Amelia Thornton never expected her wedding day to involve quite so many tears—her own. She is to wed her sparring partner, handsome, brilliant and very rich Marquess Charles Hereford. His reputation does proceed him but there are layers to him and to Amelia they have yet to discover!
Their marriage of convenience is short term but few know of this arrangement but their chemistry and attraction is anything but convenient!
Charles seeks reform by quietly purchasing the factories that are oppressing children!
Amelia’s reform is loud and radical by being extremely vocal in her newspaper The Metropolitan Review! She has dedicated several scathing articles to Charles but not knowing the full content of his character!
Amelia is on a very dangerous path to find the owners of the factory that decided profit over saving her leg! When she unearthed the full story she’s devastated to learn her enemy was so much closer than she ever dreamed!
Charles tried to warm her but she was so sure of her own opinion!
But I love how Charles supports but does not dominant! He is definitely a book boyfriend! When secrets come to life it is truly inspiring! Bravo
I received an ARC copy from Netgalley for my unbiased opinion!
February 23, 2026
The Journalist and the Marquess
“A Most Peculiar Courtship” is book three in the Daring Damsels series by Mihwa Lee. I found this to be a very enjoyable read. I really appreciate that the author’s main female character had a disability that played into the plot. Amelia was an excellent character. When she was just fourteen, her leg was severely damaged in a factory accident. The leg was ultimately amputated so she wore a wooden prosthesis. Amelia was intelligent and observant which aided her career in journalism. Opposite Amelia was Charles, the Marquess of Hereford, a well known rake with a scandalous reputation. In spite of that, I did like him. He accepted Amelia the way she was and didn’t shy away from her because of her amputation. The book is very steamy, the banter between Amelia and Charles ranged from annoyed to provocative, their relationship began as a business arrangement but a transformation began once they learned more about each other. This is a well written story, the pacing worked, the chapters flowed one into the next. The story dealt with issues of the time which I found interesting as a backdrop. Can be read as a standalone historical romance. Definitely recommended.
I received this book for free from NetGallery and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
“A Most Peculiar Courtship” is book three in the Daring Damsels series by Mihwa Lee. I found this to be a very enjoyable read. I really appreciate that the author’s main female character had a disability that played into the plot. Amelia was an excellent character. When she was just fourteen, her leg was severely damaged in a factory accident. The leg was ultimately amputated so she wore a wooden prosthesis. Amelia was intelligent and observant which aided her career in journalism. Opposite Amelia was Charles, the Marquess of Hereford, a well known rake with a scandalous reputation. In spite of that, I did like him. He accepted Amelia the way she was and didn’t shy away from her because of her amputation. The book is very steamy, the banter between Amelia and Charles ranged from annoyed to provocative, their relationship began as a business arrangement but a transformation began once they learned more about each other. This is a well written story, the pacing worked, the chapters flowed one into the next. The story dealt with issues of the time which I found interesting as a backdrop. Can be read as a standalone historical romance. Definitely recommended.
I received this book for free from NetGallery and am voluntarily leaving a review, my thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
March 16, 2026
It takes up until 25% into the book before the marriage is even mentioned, and even then it feels clumsy and forced. And why is Norwhich — a man known for his assault on his maids — part of this quartet of friends funding a railway? They don’t seem to like him, so why is he there? The world feels more generic “historical” than taking place at any particular point in time, so much so if you’d told me this was fantasy I’d have believed it because … there’s no effort made to make the world feel like anything in particular.
Overall I found it boring, predictable, but on the whole, inoffensive. I like historical romances for comfort reads, and this one … wasn’t. Now, that said, the writing is solid and it’s nice to see a main character with a disability. Amelia’s life wasn’t defined by her injury, but it was very much affected by it. The strain of being on her feet all day, her mobility being hampered by the prosthetic, her insecurities with her husband in bed because of it. I found that aspect believable.
The chemistry between the two leads almost, but didn’t quite work for me. Charles is too two dimensional and Amelia’s was fairly static. Other readers might find their banter engaging and feel the heat between the two; I just didn’t.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC.
Overall I found it boring, predictable, but on the whole, inoffensive. I like historical romances for comfort reads, and this one … wasn’t. Now, that said, the writing is solid and it’s nice to see a main character with a disability. Amelia’s life wasn’t defined by her injury, but it was very much affected by it. The strain of being on her feet all day, her mobility being hampered by the prosthetic, her insecurities with her husband in bed because of it. I found that aspect believable.
The chemistry between the two leads almost, but didn’t quite work for me. Charles is too two dimensional and Amelia’s was fairly static. Other readers might find their banter engaging and feel the heat between the two; I just didn’t.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rounded up from 4.5-ish.
A marriage of convenience is forced by railway investment requirements, and Amelia Thornton wants no part of it. She may cry through her wedding, but she’s not fragile. She treats the arrangement like a problem to manage, not a romance to enjoy.
Amelia is a prickly, fiercely self-protective newspaper editor with a wooden prosthetic after losing her leg at 14. Charles Bartholomew Hereford is a rake by reputation, but he falls first and keeps patiently proving he’s more than scandal. Their dynamic is peak unacknowledged feelings: jealousy, longing, and both of them convinced the other can’t possibly care. A mid-book moment where he responds to her prosthetic with curiosity and practical tenderness is the emotional turning point.
This is a very slow burn for Mihwa Lee, but the yearning is delicious and the payoff feels earned. I only wanted a bit more about Amelia’s erotic-lit backstory — the hints are fun, I just wanted more.
Tropes/notes: marriage of convenience; prickly FMC; falls-first MMC; slow burn; open-door; secret identity/anonymous author; caretaking; disability rep; class difference; series crossover.
A marriage of convenience is forced by railway investment requirements, and Amelia Thornton wants no part of it. She may cry through her wedding, but she’s not fragile. She treats the arrangement like a problem to manage, not a romance to enjoy.
Amelia is a prickly, fiercely self-protective newspaper editor with a wooden prosthetic after losing her leg at 14. Charles Bartholomew Hereford is a rake by reputation, but he falls first and keeps patiently proving he’s more than scandal. Their dynamic is peak unacknowledged feelings: jealousy, longing, and both of them convinced the other can’t possibly care. A mid-book moment where he responds to her prosthetic with curiosity and practical tenderness is the emotional turning point.
This is a very slow burn for Mihwa Lee, but the yearning is delicious and the payoff feels earned. I only wanted a bit more about Amelia’s erotic-lit backstory — the hints are fun, I just wanted more.
Tropes/notes: marriage of convenience; prickly FMC; falls-first MMC; slow burn; open-door; secret identity/anonymous author; caretaking; disability rep; class difference; series crossover.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Workplace safety seems like a rather dull topic for the background of a romantic story but Mihwa Lee puts the reader into the position of a front-line observer.
Our hero, Amelia, stands out among late 19th-century women as a newspaper owner and crusader for improved quality of life of the working class. A bad accident leads to one happy accident after another as her romance unfolds and her influence grows.
The setting and the development of Amelia’s character save the book from being your typical meet-cute, odd couple attracts, and steam-rises potboiler.
Good book for fans of historical romance.
Series note: Two relatively minor characters have their own stories but none of the three books are dependent on any other for the plot.
Spice Level: 2/5 (Open door, moderate detail).
Format read: Digital ARC via NetGalley.
Our hero, Amelia, stands out among late 19th-century women as a newspaper owner and crusader for improved quality of life of the working class. A bad accident leads to one happy accident after another as her romance unfolds and her influence grows.
The setting and the development of Amelia’s character save the book from being your typical meet-cute, odd couple attracts, and steam-rises potboiler.
Good book for fans of historical romance.
Series note: Two relatively minor characters have their own stories but none of the three books are dependent on any other for the plot.
Spice Level: 2/5 (Open door, moderate detail).
Format read: Digital ARC via NetGalley.
January 24, 2026
Thank you Dragonblade Publishing & NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC!
I really enjoyed this book! It took me a bit to get into this, as I believe the relationship between the 2 MCs is more established in one of the earlier books in the series. I felt very thrown into things at first, but once we got to the wedding arrangement, I was LOCKED IN.
I wouldn't really call this enemies-to-lovers as much as, maybe, "passing acquaintances that have negative preconceived notions about the other but also thinks they're crazy hot....-to-lovers".
Charles was *swoons* - that man loves his wife!!! I never tire of a reformed rake 😩
This was lots of fun & I'd definitely read more by Mihwa Lee!!
I really enjoyed this book! It took me a bit to get into this, as I believe the relationship between the 2 MCs is more established in one of the earlier books in the series. I felt very thrown into things at first, but once we got to the wedding arrangement, I was LOCKED IN.
I wouldn't really call this enemies-to-lovers as much as, maybe, "passing acquaintances that have negative preconceived notions about the other but also thinks they're crazy hot....-to-lovers".
Charles was *swoons* - that man loves his wife!!! I never tire of a reformed rake 😩
This was lots of fun & I'd definitely read more by Mihwa Lee!!
February 12, 2026
I do love a marriage of convenience, and this story does it very well. I also appreciate a disabled mmc. Amelia and Charles thought this marriage was for one year and then they'd go their own way. Ha!! Think again. Great use of s*x to forward the plot and bring them closer together. Where they make alternative use of her office and printing press room? Lawd, that was hot. Make no mistake, they're VERY compatible.
And how the bad guy got the most poetic justice karma delivered? Very satisfying, especially in today's world.
Thank you to Mihwa Lee and Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
And how the bad guy got the most poetic justice karma delivered? Very satisfying, especially in today's world.
Thank you to Mihwa Lee and Dragonblade for the copy of this book. Opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Crusading journalist Amelia Thornton agrees to a temporary marriage with a Marquess in order to save her brother’s business deal. Whilst she despises Charles Hereford’s lifestyle, she reluctantly finds him attractive. His attention and consideration after their marriage, softens her towards him but she won’t let that stop her investigation into factory safety standards.
A story with a social conscience, injustice and villainy and a delightful MMC.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
A story with a social conscience, injustice and villainy and a delightful MMC.
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
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. The main characters are so likable. Honestly, I really want Lord Hereford for myself. Super great enemies to lovers arranged marriage. The storyline with the factories and how people including young children were being injured and not taken care of during that time because people thought money was more important than their lives was very heartbreaking. You can’t help but root for the heroin and hero in this story as they struggle to trust each other and work together in order to find their HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I love how this author writes about handicapping conditions while allowing the character to always maintain dignity! Amelia's amputation has shaped her in ways that thirst for justice and protection for others. This story is truly amazing as it delves into the feelings and fears Amelia has. Charles is a delightful foil for Amelia as they rub each other the wrong way. I loved the story. I loved the investigation. I lived the way she handles societal issues. I want the whole life story if Charles and Amelia's as I'm not ready to let them go!
February 10, 2026
I enjoyed the plot, which displayed investigation, passion, and romance.
I loved the characters, Amelia and Charles, and their interactions in this marriage-of-convenience trope. Amelia is an independent, determined, and headstrong heroine. Charles is incredibly charming. He is warm, supportive, and thoughtful. He will let us discover Amelia’s hidden vulnerability and insecurity.
I loved their journey to their HEA.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the characters, Amelia and Charles, and their interactions in this marriage-of-convenience trope. Amelia is an independent, determined, and headstrong heroine. Charles is incredibly charming. He is warm, supportive, and thoughtful. He will let us discover Amelia’s hidden vulnerability and insecurity.
I loved their journey to their HEA.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was my fav of the series no third act break and the type of jealousy I like. I really loved Charles he was down bad and all the little things he did to show he cared and loved Amelia he was perfect. And I liked Amelia as well, she is tough and accustom to not depending on ours but doesn't let that prevent her relationship from growing with Charles. I thought the flow and the pace of this book was fantastic! I really enjoyed this and I am glad I have more of this author in my TBR list.
March 18, 2026
This third book in The Daring Damsels series was an entertaining class difference enemies to lovers' historical romance. A marriage of convenience made for business reasons, intrusive, secrets, miscommunication, strong emotional issues, and many exciting twists that included strong-willed and interesting characters was engaging. I enjoyed their spicy chemistry that led them to a happy ending. I recommend reading!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Arc Review
I loved the tension and banter between Charles and Amelia, but the rivals-to-lovers transition deserved more than a blink-and-you-miss-it moment. And all those mean things Charles said about Amelia? They didn’t just vanish into thin air, they needed real closure. Without it, the romance felt slightly unfinished.
I loved the tension and banter between Charles and Amelia, but the rivals-to-lovers transition deserved more than a blink-and-you-miss-it moment. And all those mean things Charles said about Amelia? They didn’t just vanish into thin air, they needed real closure. Without it, the romance felt slightly unfinished.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a wonderfully uplifting story. Their animosity hid their attraction for each other as well as other layers to their characters. Their secret investigation and work towards workhouse safety almost cause them their HEA but all’s well that ends well! Witty exchanges will keep you amused throughout.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book and leaving my review voluntarily.
March 25, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Mihwa Lee for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Most Peculiar Courtship. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I really love historical regency romance. I haven’t read the other books, but I enjoyed the characters. I would check out other books by this author.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. I really love historical regency romance. I haven’t read the other books, but I enjoyed the characters. I would check out other books by this author.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
cute romcom with some good plotting and good characters. the setting was well-developed and Lee's unique voice came out. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
February 19, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an advanced review copy!
This was a charming and easy read, with a strong main character and an intriguing B plot.
Overall I’d recommend it!
This was a charming and easy read, with a strong main character and an intriguing B plot.
Overall I’d recommend it!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I would like to thank netgalley and Dragonblade Publishing for a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved this!
I loved that it features a disabled heroine, and seeing an inter-abled relationship handled so well.
I loved this!
I loved that it features a disabled heroine, and seeing an inter-abled relationship handled so well.
March 7, 2026
I loved this. The two main characters oooo perfect together. The uncovering of layers was amazing. The acceptance and understanding just spot on. These two had chemistry sizzling off the page.
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