The Bluestocking Beds Her Bride

Must Love Scandal #4

by Fenna Edgewood

She’s out to avenge her family... but what she finds is an everlasting love.

Featuring some of your favorite tropes:

Age Gap
Single Mom
Mystery & Intrigue

Never weaken. Never trust. Never give away your heart.

Some call Fleur Warburton cold and hard-hearted. Even ruthless. Scarred by a traumatic past that destroyed her family, Fleur believes she has found the man ultimately responsible for her unhappy fate and is out for vengeance. But when the beautiful Lady Julia Pembroke gets in her way, Fleur is soon entangled in scandal of a different sort. With Julia by her side, Fleur enters a world of tempestuous desires and rebellious hearts.

A Carefully Constructed Life…

More than ten years ago, Lady Julia Pembroke was a haughty beauty with the ton at her fingertips. Now she’s an aging spinster who spends her days advocating for London’s less fortunate. To the beau monde, she seems to lead a precarious double-existence, half in and half out of good society, always plagued by those pesky rumors that she prefers women to men.

Julia stopped caring what others thought of her long ago. These days, her life is anything but dull. She has a charity society to run, a houseful of adopted children to care for, and an evil criminal organization to bring down.

Dashing Women and Dangerous Deeds

But when a reckless young spitfire with hair of fiery gold whose every touch is an exquisite torture, every glance an enticement arrives in London from the countryside, Julia’s life suddenly becomes much, much more complicated…and much more dangerous.

Genres: Romance, Lesbian, Historical Romance, Adult, Historical, Historical Fiction

353 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 30, 2022

About the author

USA TODAY bestselling author Fenna Edgewood writes steamy, swoon-worthy stories of love, family, and adventure. Fenna lives on the Canadian Prairies with her husband and two tiny tots (who are adorable but generally terrible research assistants). She is an award-winning retired academic who has studied English literature for most of her life. Before becoming a full-time author, her last "real" job was teaching high school students above the Arctic Circle. After a long hiatus from writing make-believe as a twelve-year-old, she has returned to the genre with a bang!

For a FREE book from Fenna, join her NL: https://fennaedgewood.com/newsletter/
And be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest deals! https://www.bookbub.com/authors/fenna...

Reviews

[Gail · Rating 3 out of 5]

Read to the end but a contrived convoluted plot and characters that confused made that task frustrating. Leads Lady Julia and Fleur were difficult to relate to. I couldn't connect with their characters and behavior. As the mature woman, Julia was lacking at critical moments - almost dazed and Fleur was unnecessarily cold but rash. It was difficult to establish an emotional connection with the overall storyline, many characters, keep track of the leads and care about the children (and I thought that aspect was meant to be important to the love connection). IMHO this should not be considered a "stand alone" book. Too bad, the many connections to other books in the series hampered my reading and overall enjoyment.

I rec'd a copy through Booksprout and this is a voluntary, unbiased review.

[lauraღ · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars. It seems to be a particular tragedy of mine that many of the books I let myself get excited about/look forward to end up being duds. Not that I disliked or hated this; as always, with queer historical romance, I am hugely thankful for its existence in the first place. Historical f/f romance is one of my absolute favourite things to read, and there's relatively little of it. The plot of this one (age gap, single mom, revenge plot, high stakes) was enough to convince me I'd love it, but. Alas.

I will say, one of the biggest things about the book that I didn't love is actually something that other people might like. It's written in... what I'm going to call a very modern way; both in terms of the writing/phrasing and the sensibilities of the characters. There were so many phrases/words that pulled me right out of the setting. Some passages could have easily been taken from a modern book. It's not that the writing was simple; simple is good. But it was also just flat. I didn't feel immersed at all. As for the approach to same sex relationships and love... Look, I'm not saying I want all of my queer historicals to be full of homophobia; that would be tiresome. Julia is pretty much as out and proud as you could get for 1827. It's just the casualness with which it was written that threw me off. Would you really tell a near stranger about whom you know little to nothing that you're interested in women? Something that's not illegal but could have huge societal ramifications? They were both kinda cavalier in a way that felt off. I felt the same way about some of the plot elements, like how Fleur admits to attempting to murder someone, before she and Julia are even close. A lot of things that should have taken time were rushed over, and it left so much to be desired.

But there's only one thing I actually really really hated, and that's how the book treats a closeted side character. It's far from the first queer book to do this, but I hate it every time, when people who are closeted or scared to come out are vilified or made into a minor enemy in some way. Especially in a case like this, where it's historical, and society is against you, and that fear should be understandable. The character in question is seen as a coward and returns near the end after she decides to marry a man to conform to society, and it turns out that the marriage is an unhappy one, and she's been threatened and blackmailed. The way our protagonists react isn't the absolute worst, but it was still kind of infuriating. That, and the way Helena is written. It left such a bad taste in my mouth.

It wasn't all bad. I did like Fleur's grumpiness and her dislike of/awkwardness around children. (Her asking Julia why the hell why'd want six children made me laugh out loud.) I never really loved the characters, but the romance was cute and steamy and they had good chemistry. I wish the age gap was addressed more than it was, but I still liked it. This did have the dreaded unnecessary third POV from time to time, but I didn't dislike that character, so I guess it was okay. Just not really needed imo.

LOL I started that paragraph attempting to talk about things that I liked, but then devolved back into nit-picks. Listen, the book was fine. I think most people will probably like it. I hope the lovely cover pulls in a bunch of readers like it pulled me in; I just LOVE seeing queer historical covers like this. (Though it's not really accurate to the characters; Julia doesn't look very much older.) It's part of a series, but I understood events fine even though I haven't read any other books by this author.

Content warnings: referenced child sexual abuse and domestic abuse

[AnnMaree Of Oz]

DNF 50% in.

Too many characters, too many backstories, all related to other works. A confusing plot meandering around ridiculous outbursts and a scheme that takes too long for us to even understand. So in my opinion it doesn't really stand on it's own.

My biggest issue is I simply just didn't like any of the characters. They went back and forth an awful lot, both between themselves and in their moods and desires, and personalities. None were steadfast, and all seemed rather flippant and complicated things so in unamusing ways.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve not read a Fenna Edgewood novel before but it didn’t take long for me to feel immersed in the world she’s made. Her characters are quick witted and passionate - about their own interests, in others, and in each other. Fleur and Lady Julia are both different in many ways but ultimately they are very similar. They want to help those less fortunate and have felt the pressures of the ton. Oh and they both prefer those of their own sex. The sparks between them are evident from their first meeting and each encounter felt hotter than the previous. I enjoyed being privy to their love story. But I was surprised by the circumstances around their romance too. Or rather the lack of circumstances.

This was my first F/F historical romance read and I had certain expectations. I couldn’t wait to see how they navigated the rules of society and how their love could bloom despite the expectations placed upon them. But Ms. Edgewood effectively sidestepped the ton’s impact of Fleur and Julia by having them exist in a society of their own where same sex relationships existed almost in their own little bubble. This was fantastic because it meant they didn’t have to hide and their romance wasn’t having to fight other external pressures. But I felt a little disappointed I didn’t get to witness how the historical elements of society impacted on them as a couple.

I liked the pacing, the secondary characters (I was thrilled to learn there will be a short story featuring Jasper and David coming out!), and the overall vibe of the novel. It’s fun and romantic. I loved that Lady Julia was a mother of six rambunctious children and Fleur was not overly partial to kids in general. The dramatic and suspense aspects of the novel were exciting but were secondary to the romance. I might have felt differently if I had read the previous stories and experienced his evilness more fully. Overall this was a great read. I think people are going to love the lack of societal pressure on Fleur and Julia or be disappointed in it but either way this story is full of romance and an entertaining read. 3.5 stars

[Netgyrl (Laura)]

DNF - I don't know. Me and this book were not clicking so on to the next in my never ending TBR pile :)

shelved: 1700s, country-england, dnf, historical-romance, kindle-unlimited, sapphic-romance, me-and-this-book-had-no-chemistry

[Jill booksandescape · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an advance ebook copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for review.

The Bluestocking Beds Her Bride by Fenna Edgewood is the fourth book in the Must Love Scandal series. Fleur Warburton believes she has found the man responsible for destroying her family. She is out for ruthless vengeance. Lady Julia Pembroke was a diamond of the first water over ten years ago. She is now a bluestocking and devotes her life to helping women and children escaping abusive home lives. She provides them with all essentials, including education. The rumor mill has been spreading for years that Julia prefers the company of women over that of men, but with a household of six adopted children, a charity, and criminals to bring down, Julia couldn’t care less what people say about her. When Julia and Fleur meet, sparks fly. The only problem is, Julia has never given her heart to anyone before—and Fleur doesn’t know if she has a heart to give to Julia.

Julia and Fleur were a well-fitting couple. I liked the work they and their friends did. I really liked Medea the mastiff. Fenna Edgewood has a great writing style. I just wish I connected with the characters more.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 4 out of 5]

I always try to let you guys know when I read a new author. I do spend quite a bit of time researching every new author I read. If I like their book covers, then I check to make sure it is my Regency genre, it’s not sweet and innocent and has sex and strong language. My favorite. 😊 With all that being said, this is a new author for me. I have only read the other books in this series by her.

I enjoyed Fleur and Julia's story. Overall good read.

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very charming story. It is the first sapphic story I read. The characters are engaging and I was glad to see everyone get their happy ending.

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

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this story because it had strong characters. Fleur and Julia make a great pair. They are strong and in control of their destinies. I like their back and forth with each other. They don't hold anything back. Sharp and witty dialogue all the way through the book until the end.

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

[Carolyn Meredith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love Fenna Edgewood’s books. I have read them all and enjoy her writing style immensely. I just can’t say the same about this book. During the first part of the book I had to force myself to keep reading. I found Fleur to be brash and annoying and Julia was condescending and cryptic. Then in chapter 10, the tone changed to normal Edgewood style and the rest was an easy read. I find it odd to not be able to write a glowing review for one of my favorite authors.

Also, the blurb on Goodreads does not accurately describe this book. Maybe this was the original direction the story was going and that explains why the book felt disjointed to me.

[K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely story, well written, though, I'd have liked a more satisfying conclusion for the top villain that's haunted this group for the last few books.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fleur Warburton has newly arrived in London. She is very proficient with knives. Her father is dead, and her mom is in an asylum. She has come to take care of a family thing. She is lovely to look at with red-golden hair, but she is grumpy and speaks in a forthright manner. She and her friend Jason end up At the Society. This is a charity that takes care of women and children who have been abused and need a place to hide. There they meet one of the founders, Lady Julia Pembroke. She and Fleur hit it off sort of.

Julia is older but she loves her six kids and her charity work. She fights for the people within her purview. She also has some noble friends that help with the charity. They have been trying to stop an unbelievably bad organization that sells children and women into brothels and overseas.

I loved this funny, witty, and engaging story. I really don't read this kind of story, but I am glad I read this one. I hope to be able to read the whole series. It held my attention and was entertaining.
I want to read about Jason and David in the next novel.

I received this Arc from Book Sirens and voluntarily reviewed it.

[Gloria Pastorino · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start my review with a quote from one of the heroines of the book, Fleur: We need more honest people in the world. And how true that is! I loved this book, full of characters who strive to be honest and live their lives as they see fit. Full of bold, courageous women, and men, who battle against evil and against society rules. Well written and emotional like all Fenna Edgewood’s books, this one features, among others, a bit of a grumpy-sunshine trope. And I loved cantankerous Fleur, even if I understand that she can be an annoying character for many readers. And Julia is gorgeous, so composed and passionate at the same time. I really enjoyed the end of the mystery arch with the villain finally brought down and I loved seeing all the characters of the series, and of the previous one, reunited at the end. And I ADORED the fact that a beloved side character gets to find his happy ending as well! And his adventures could really make a gorgeous spin-off!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Donique Collins · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lady Julia..confirmed spinster and Bluestocking..runs a society for the less fortunate women and children…wants to destroy the secret men society. Miss Fleur Warburton…alone in the world, with the exception of Jasper…has an agenda of violence to complete. This is the fourth book in the series and as with the others you can read as a stand alone but it is so much better if you are familiar with the characters from the other books in the series. The good news is that finally I was able to get closure on something, and I’m not telling. This story is also different from its series mates because the love affair is not between your typical H and h but in a weird way it is exactly like the others. There is some violence as well as the mention of death and murder. The passion between the H and h is one that does not fully materialize until half way through but when it does it is explored quite thoroughly.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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

[Adriana · Rating 4 out of 5]

The author gives us the great story of the meeting of two intelligent and capable women who have a common goal.

They also discover love, at a time when the relationship between two women was considered abnormal.

They face difficulties, weaknesses, hurts, insecurities, prejudice and enemies and discover that together, through different skills, they can be better and stronger.

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

[Lyn Denison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book took me back to my Georgette Heyer reads, although you won’t find this group of characters in GH’s books. In here we have a collection of ‘different’ characters facing the social mores of the times, set with a backdrop of the ‘ton’, ballrooms, horses and carriages, the dastardly Black Lodge, and Lady Julia falling for Miss Warburton. I guess you’d call it a rollicking good yarn. There’s certainly plenty of action.

[Zena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love and Justice!
I found this book's subject matter rather intriguing and have certainly learned quite a bit now about this community in Regency England.
I liked that the characters showed their strengths or weaknesses quite clearly as the story progressed. In particular, Julia and Fleur were really a formidable team in their fight for justice and that is what I enjoyed most about it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sheila · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful

Wonderfully written story of two women living in a time where love is forbidden and where terror exists. Where truth and good wins. Great characters and dialogues that fills your heart with warmth.

[Bonnie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this from BookSprout and this is my freely given opinion.

This is the story of Lady Julia Pembroke, one of the patronesses of the Philanthropic Society for the Betterment of Girls and Women, and a dedicated spinster, despite being the wealthy daughter of a high ranking peer and a sought after Diamond of the first water when she debuted 10 years prior. She lives openly as a single woman in tonnish Society, with her own household, with her own family of adopted children, and one who is attracted to women, versus men. While she doesn't flaunt her lesbianism about Society, she does live true to herself, and has no intention of marrying, to the chagrin of some of her family.

In the meantime, she does what she can to help other women and children in need through the Society, especially those who were saved from dangerous predicaments because of Harcourt Laird and his sect.

Fleur Warburton is the daughter of a baron who is now on her own in London, other than her friend Jasper. They have joined the Society to be teachers, but Fleur ultimately is in London to seek revenge against Harcourt Laird for how he was involved in her family. She has escaped an arranged marriage to a man her father chose, on her father's death and she is glad as she is aware that she is not attracted to men either.

She is a young woman who seems quite disenfranchised, with no ties, and a large chip on her shoulder. She and Julia initially seem quite at odds with each other, despite their attraction. Fleur seems quite young, immature, and lacking in understanding of what family means. Both Julia and Fleur connect though, perhaps because both Julia and Fleur may have not had happy childhoods (Julia's mother is a terrible, narrow minded person), and are both outsiders because of their preferences.

They also connect because of their shared nemesis of Harcourt Laird and endeavour to work together to thwart him in one of his plans. They are successful working together to achieve one of their aims, but things go smoothly and they are forced to go into hiding. During that time, Fleur and Julia are forced in close proximity where they become more open and vulnerable to each other. But of course, Laird cannot let anyone who interferes with his aims go unpunished and Julia and Fleur are forced to confront him again, as he directly threatens the ones they love.

I enjoyed this F/F romance and the different perspective of living as a Lesbian during the time. I felt that Fleur was quite an immature loner in how she was with the children and her initial intransigence with Julia. She felt like a woman child who had a huge chip on her shoulder who was against the world, and initially I was not fussy on her character because of this. Perhaps Julia was like her as well, especially since they seemed to open to each other more when Fleur met and spoke with Julia's mother. I was glad to see some conclusion to the over-arcing drama/intrigue with Laird, but I have to admit that it did feel a bit lacking in punch or true justice as he was not held to account for his crimes and misdeeds.

But this does not seem to be a true end of the story, as there is still one nemesis on the loose and the story of Jasper and David was left open-ended as well. It would seem there is a future novella that would tie up a couple of loose ends?

I liked the rather sweet ending of the love story of Fleur and Julia as well, but I would have loved to have seen some kind of "a few years later" type epilogue to show a bit of how they managed their family and grew together as a couple in a period where their relationship would not have been sanctioned by society (and would have been outright criminally punished if they were men). I really enjoyed some of the historical bits included too, about the lesbians during the Regency.

3.75 stars out of 5.

By the way - I loved the mastiff, Medea - a wonderful non-human side character, and also a creature that Fleur had an unreasonable reaction to.

[JenReviews4U · Rating 4 out of 5]

I liked this book for tying up an overall plot from the other books and for the adventure within, not for the romance. In my opinion, this is not a stand-alone story, there is just too much backstory that one would need to have to get a clearer picture of who everyone was. In looking at some other reviews, this may have been the case for those who felt not invested in these characters. Having read the previous books of this series as well as the Gardner Girls series, it was like revisiting with old friends and made the story more enjoyable.

Fleur is a quick-tongued, hard-headed, and hard-hearted girl because she has had to be, so why does she suddenly feel emotions she long thought dead whenever Julia Pembroke is around? Julia has made it her life's work to bring down a criminal organization, not caring what others think of her personal life. So why does she care about this young girl with a steel tongue and more importantly, what does she feel?

There is a lot going on in this story which is why I think readers should have at least read some of the series prior. While I enjoyed this book, it wasn't a favorite of mine. The beginning starts off really choppy, even I had a hard time following and Fleur and Julia are not the most likable of characters. Julia is far too haughty and Fleur is just a brat. Their romance at first felt far too much pushed and gratuitous, like a romance story wanna-be. It wasn't until this story reached the end of Chapter 10 that it turned into a plotline that held your interest. Then it was a true-to-form Fenna Edgewood story that I have come to love and I couldn't put it down. Even the romance at that point (in the forest) felt right and sweet and you believed these characters.

Some points I didn't care for- Towards the end there is the return of a previous character that I felt really wasn't well placed and not at all well played because it completely undermines all that the author had worked so hard to put out there in that these two women were proud to be together and damn anyone who dared to say otherwise.
The epilogue while a nice wrap up made a point of pushing the fact that there were women who married in history. A nice fact that could have been placed in the notes section at the end from the author, but completely not needed within the story as it felt like it was trying too hard to justify these two loving each other.
While Fleur's characterization came off well and justified given her past, Julia's did not. Her character felt disjointed and she was simply just too overbearing and rude most times. She needed more development.

Overall while a nice storyline and a good addition to the series, the entire female romance plot was underwhelming. You could have easily substituted a male in the lead role and gotten the same effect. I didn't feel anything special from the romance between Fleur and Julia and most of the time it felt like it was trying too hard to be a female/female love story. It didn't flow naturally.
I would recommend this book for those who have read the series and are fans of Ms. Edgewood's writing. For those just picking up this book for the first time and not knowing any backstory, you may feel lost.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Elizabeth Connor · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the author. I really thought I would like it, but it was disappointing. I loved the concept because it takes the typical historical romance and turns it on its head. Lady Julia Pembroke is a society spinster (for lack of a better phrase) and Miss Fleur Warburton has come to London with her best friend Jasper to find the man who destroyed her family. Unfortunately, we never really find out what he did to destroy her family. There are hints, but nothing is ever fully explained. Perhaps I would need to read another book in the series to understand, but because this book didn’t tell me, I’m frustrated. There were also several characters mentioned and I felt like the reader should know who they were, but I didn‘t.

I had to laugh when I read Jasper's description of Fleur after being asked if she is his fiance. “I think not. I’d rather wed a sea serpent. I’d rather wed a humpback whale. I’d rather wed… I’d rather wed a debutante.” Incidentally, the reason he specifies debutante at the end is because he is gay.

Julia and Fleur are on a collision course for one another, both hunting the same villain and both overwhelmingly attracted to each other. The problem is, I never felt an emotional connection to either of them. The love they shared was somewhat superficial and the intimate scenes between them seemed mechanical. Still, the action portions of the plot were compelling and tense and Fleur's journey (hero’s journey) was interesting.

As Julia is trying to propose to Fleur, Fleur complains about the various physical discomforts associated with love. Her response to the proposal is: “If I am already miserably in love, then it’s only fair that you are as well.” I was fascinated to find that the pastor who was planning to perform the ceremony had done research and found records of other women marrying as far back as 1707. I had never heard of this history, but I looked it up and found it’s true. Amazing.

Anyway, I enjoyed the other Fenna Edgewood story I read, but I didn’t connect with these characters on an emotional level. I’m still interested in reading more from this series, and maybe even finding out what exactly happened to Fleur’s family.

[Terrie Norris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fleur and Julia’s story is a gem of a book! I was captured from the start and loved this well-written, witty, passionate story to the last page. The story is the fourth installment in Fenna Edgewood’s Must Love Scandal series and we finally see the downfall of one of her nasty, vile characters. This character was woven into the entire series and was seen in the Gardner Girls series; his demise was suspenseful and delicious to watch at the same time.

I loved the strength and courage of Fleur and Julia. Julia has her charity work, her six adopted children, and lives within Society even with rumors flowing that she prefers women. Fleur arrives in town set on vengeance and justice. Working together, using each other’s strengths, empowering the other with their courage, they are a formidable couple. Fenna brings to life an attraction between Fleur and Julia that is not only forbidden in Society, but potentially dangerous if the information falls into the wrong hands. The turmoil is palpable, the passion fulfilling.

I loved this captivating story and can’t wait to see some of the side characters receive their own stories. Maybe how some of the women came to be at Venus Park? Thank you to Fenna Edgewood and Booksprout for an advanced copy. I voluntarily read the book and gladly leave my unbiased opinion.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

O.M.G! The Bluestocking Beds Her Bride was virtually impossible to put down from the very beginning. I was captivated from the first pages. Fenna has a way of bringing characters to life and creating a world one can easily imagine.

This was the first sapphic romance I’ve read, but it won’t be the last. I’d love to read the stories of the rest of Julia’s friends who gathered at Venus Park. I have a feeling it could be another great series like a couple of the M/M series I’ve read.

Julia and Fleur made me fall in love with both of them for different reasons. Lady Julia is so classy and polished, yet she’s so dedicated and passionate about her work. Fleur is scrappy and cranky because life has made her that way, but together they form an amazingly powerful couple. I was cheering for them from the start. This book has everything: action, comedy, drama, and humor.

Medea the mastiff and Julia’s children are hidden gems. Medea stole my heart. It’s been my experience that some authors struggle with writing children and/or pets into historical romances, but Fenna handled the challenge with ease. I can’t wait to read David and Jasper’s story next year!

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

[Dora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lady Julia Pembroke is sure of herself, of who she is and cares little, if anything, about the conventions of the time. Impetuous, fierce, and thirsty for justice Fleur Warburton finds that strong passions are awakening in her and that sometimes they confuse her and other times they make her want more. The strong attraction between Julia and Fleur has Julia fearful and Fleur struggling with the strength of her feelings and fearing rejection. Destiny comes into play leading them down dangerous paths, facing villains, and opening their eyes to the reality that was in front of them and awaited them at the end. Interesting the adventure in which they were involved, the confrontation with the villains, how the relationship between Julia and Fleur evolved and that David and Jasper are going to have their own adventure. I liked the action, the suspense and the development of the plot with a controversial issue, as I like them, and with a character like Fleur I didn't know what to expect. I voluntarily reviewed this copy that I received for free from BookSirens and enjoyed it.

[BookishMya · Rating 4 out of 5]

A rollercoaster ride from start to finish! It was great to finally see the destruction of Harcourt Laird. The ongoing mystery of this vile character has drawn me in from the beginning of this series. So many connections along the way, leading through so many twists & turns. The suspense really does sink in to your bones. These characters have already been engrained in our hearts for previous stories, but to see Julia find her own happiness was beautiful. She is strong and a force of nature, so naturally she needed someone who was equally strong (if not maybe a little stronger even). After being alone for so long, Fleur needed what she never even thought she wanted, family. And that came in spades with Julia, through her own children of course, but also her network of friends. These ar truly beautiful characters!

[Dominique Englebert · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love is not always enough
The heinous mastermind behind the Black Club gets his comeuppance in this fourth instalment of Must Love Scandal.
Fleur et Julia join forces – at first somewhat reluctantly for Fleur – to protect the women and children of Julia’s charitable society against Harcourt Laird, who does not hesitate to threaten with blackmail against Lady Julia’s proclivities.
Ladies who preferred ladies could far more easily conceal their love than their male counterparts. Two ladies who did everything together, even lived together did not attract the same attention, because it was considered normal to see a lady and her companion or chaperone. The male mentality of the time also considered unlikely that ladies could conceal anything or be enterprising enough to lead a secret life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kylie Cantwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Must Love Scandal series has been really enjoyable, but it can't come to a close until the bluestocking beds her bride. If you hate queer romance, you'll be left with open questions about the trafficking of women and children that's been at the heart of the rest of the series. However, if you're open to something different, this story is well written and closes out the matter of trafficking, who is behind it, and what becomes of the characters we've come to know well through the series.

I'm not usually one for queer romance, so I wasn't sure at first whether I was going to read this book. However, I'm really glad I did, as I think it's beautifully written and doesn't challenge my comfort in reading about sexuality too much - just stretches my comfort zone a bit.

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

[James Crawford · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story takes place in 1827 London. One main character is Fleur whose mother is in an insane asylum for murder. Jasper is another character and he plans to become a teacher. The setting is a place called The Society which is basically a small group set up to help women escape evil men, the main one being Harcourt Laird.

The basic thing involving the evil guy is that he runs a sex trafficking ring. Lady Julia Pembroke is the main person behind The Society and the stories centers around Fleur and how she becomes involved with The Society and Lady Julia.

It's a very dark story about how the women have been treated but it also is a very positive story in how other women are able to help those in trouble and just how dedicated she is. Lady Julia is also a lesbian and so that factor also becomes important.

I really like the story and the characters and what happened to them.

[Rachel Crosby · Rating 4 out of 5]

From really good to just okay

I was thrilled when I found this novel. I've been reading Regency romances and yearned for one that featured lesbians.
The story has a strong start and is quite delightful but when it starts getting violent it really turned me off. And there are so many implausible points where the main characters could have stopped the bad guys. For example, when the bad guys starts smashing up the orphanage nobody thinks to call for the magistrates or the police. And when Julia goes in to try and stop or limit the damage she doesn't carry a gun.
Either way I felt cheated by this book. I thought it was going to be super great but it really is quite disappointing in the end.

[Ag · Rating 5 out of 5]

I must admit that I chose this book first and foremost just because of its cover. I thought the cover is so super pretty. So beautiful. And then I read the blurb and yes, I was looking for a good steamy lesbian romance. So, yay!
This book did not disappoint. Starting from the fact that it was a long-ish read (yes, I loved it that the book was a longer read, that meant I could stay with the book for longer!), and ending with the story and both heroines. A romance that is taking place at a time when it was not actually socially accepted not to be heterosexual, and for a woman to actually have any social influence without a husband or father "taking care of her" and "looking after her", and there is this hot love between an older lady and a younger girl.