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Ladies Most Scandalous #2
An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire
A feisty heiress and reluctant duke are partners-in-crime but enemies in love in this delightful and witty historical romance from the bestselling author of A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem—for fans of Sarah MacLean, Sabrina Jeffries, and Netflix's Bridgerton!
England, 1867: Miss Caroline Hardcastle has fully embraced her scandalous reputation—even though doing so cost her a chance for love. She would much rather bring aid to those ignored by society by writing for England’s most infamous crime column. When Caro’s dear friend is kidnapped, however, she is shocked to find an ally in Lord Valentine Thorn, the same man who broke her heart years ago. Refusing his help would be the height of foolishness, but can she trust Val to stand by her?
Val—the new Viscount Wrackham—is in an untenable position: His father is demanding he find a respectable bride to secure the succession. Yet when Caro’s improper actions require her to marry for convenience, Val sees an opportunity to show her he’s a changed man. As the two grow closer to unmasking the culprit, can he convince her to give their love a second chance—before death does them part?
England, 1867: Miss Caroline Hardcastle has fully embraced her scandalous reputation—even though doing so cost her a chance for love. She would much rather bring aid to those ignored by society by writing for England’s most infamous crime column. When Caro’s dear friend is kidnapped, however, she is shocked to find an ally in Lord Valentine Thorn, the same man who broke her heart years ago. Refusing his help would be the height of foolishness, but can she trust Val to stand by her?
Val—the new Viscount Wrackham—is in an untenable position: His father is demanding he find a respectable bride to secure the succession. Yet when Caro’s improper actions require her to marry for convenience, Val sees an opportunity to show her he’s a changed man. As the two grow closer to unmasking the culprit, can he convince her to give their love a second chance—before death does them part?
313 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published November 16, 2021
311 people are currently reading
14130 people want to read
About the author
Manda Collins
37 books1,568 followersManda Collins grew up on a combination of Nancy Drew books and Jane Austen novels, and her own brand of Regency romantic suspense is the result. A former academic librarian, she holds advanced degrees in English Lit and Librarianship. Her books have been favorably reviewed in Entertainment Weekly, Library Journal, Booklist, Publisher's Weekly, Bookpage, and USA Today. A native of Alabama, she lives on the Gulf Coast with a very stubborn cat and more books than are strictly necessary.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 854 reviews
March 19, 2023
An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire by Manda Collins
Ladies Most Scandalous #2. Historical cozy mystery with romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better if you’ve read the first. Second chance troupe.
Miss Caroline Hardcastle is half of the writing duo of England’s infamous crime column. When a friend is kidnapped, Caro finds herself working again with Lord Valentine Thorn. Their engagement a few years back ended abruptly but they still have feelings for each other. Val wants to prove he is a better man now and jumps into the investigation.
Enjoyable and witty. A regency era romantic mystery as the unconventional Caro gets in the middle finding the missing woman. A bit steamy as Caro and Val continue their relationship with a newfound appreciation of the times and situations.
3.5
Ladies Most Scandalous #2. Historical cozy mystery with romance. Can be read as a stand-alone but better if you’ve read the first. Second chance troupe.
Miss Caroline Hardcastle is half of the writing duo of England’s infamous crime column. When a friend is kidnapped, Caro finds herself working again with Lord Valentine Thorn. Their engagement a few years back ended abruptly but they still have feelings for each other. Val wants to prove he is a better man now and jumps into the investigation.
Enjoyable and witty. A regency era romantic mystery as the unconventional Caro gets in the middle finding the missing woman. A bit steamy as Caro and Val continue their relationship with a newfound appreciation of the times and situations.
3.5
dnf
February 19, 2022I got a few chapters in and decided this wasn't for me. Right out of the gate it seemed like there was going to be a lot of complaining about misogynistic men and the women they keep down.
I get it. Really.
But for whatever reason, my kneejerk reaction was Christ, this is going to be one of those whiny books and I just flipped over to an old Agatha Christie I had borrowed from the library.
If this is your jam, I mean no disrespect. I just didn't know what I was getting into.
I get it. Really.
But for whatever reason, my kneejerk reaction was Christ, this is going to be one of those whiny books and I just flipped over to an old Agatha Christie I had borrowed from the library.
If this is your jam, I mean no disrespect. I just didn't know what I was getting into.
December 19, 2021
**Copy of this book provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I feel like this book is taking itself way to seriously. For a mystery mixed with romance it's surprisingly somber, contrived language makes it difficult to get into and I still can't decide who I disliked more - main heroine or main hero.
Caroline Hardcastle is ahead of her times at least 150 years because she is having a mentality of a late XXI century social justice warrior sprinkled heavily with a concerning misandry. She skips boycotting corsets or championing basic women's rights and goes straight to complaining about men and how every bad thing that is happening to women are only because of them. How the romance might be possible in this setup? Well, you just have to create a doormat of a guy that will be there just to agree with everything that main heroine says, apologize to her on multiple occasions, double and then triple his efforts to gain her trust and be ready to strike anyone who ever says a bad word about any woman. Sheesh.
How about the mystery? Well, the mystery is an excuse to lament some more about how women are disadvantaged, constantly on the mercy of predatory men. Skillfully done, this whole complaining would be a compelling part of the plot but repeated over and over again and tainted with hate to all men it is just not doing it for me. Solution to the mystery is pushed aside to make more room for romance, introduction of a heroine and hero of the next installment, introduction of a cat (which was pointless for me but I see that cat-lovers will appreciate this part) and pretty much everything else. I was actually surprised that the mystery part didn't get removed from the book completely. Ultimately I wasn't interested in that part of book and it didn't gave me any emotions.
Overall, this was definitely not a read for me, but if you find yourself in the moment when some male-bashing would be appreciated then go for it.
I feel like this book is taking itself way to seriously. For a mystery mixed with romance it's surprisingly somber, contrived language makes it difficult to get into and I still can't decide who I disliked more - main heroine or main hero.
Still, her words surprised a laugh out of him. "You truly must think me a self-important ass."
"I think you are a man." Caro shrugged. "So, perhaps?"
Caroline Hardcastle is ahead of her times at least 150 years because she is having a mentality of a late XXI century social justice warrior sprinkled heavily with a concerning misandry. She skips boycotting corsets or championing basic women's rights and goes straight to complaining about men and how every bad thing that is happening to women are only because of them. How the romance might be possible in this setup? Well, you just have to create a doormat of a guy that will be there just to agree with everything that main heroine says, apologize to her on multiple occasions, double and then triple his efforts to gain her trust and be ready to strike anyone who ever says a bad word about any woman. Sheesh.
How about the mystery? Well, the mystery is an excuse to lament some more about how women are disadvantaged, constantly on the mercy of predatory men. Skillfully done, this whole complaining would be a compelling part of the plot but repeated over and over again and tainted with hate to all men it is just not doing it for me. Solution to the mystery is pushed aside to make more room for romance, introduction of a heroine and hero of the next installment, introduction of a cat (which was pointless for me but I see that cat-lovers will appreciate this part) and pretty much everything else. I was actually surprised that the mystery part didn't get removed from the book completely. Ultimately I wasn't interested in that part of book and it didn't gave me any emotions.
Overall, this was definitely not a read for me, but if you find yourself in the moment when some male-bashing would be appreciated then go for it.
April 19, 2022
This was not as fun as the first one. While the tension was still there, I didn't feel like it was as authentic as the first one. However, Ludwig was the star of the show.
October 19, 2022
Awe this was cute and low angst! Mary Jane Wells knocks the rocks off the narration. I definitely thought there was a closed door scene bc the scene ended and she was laying in bed all cozy but they were just exhausted getting out of their clothes lmao. I’m definitely excited for book 3.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5 🌶🌶/5
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75/5 🌶🌶/5
November 16, 2021
Barbara’s rating: 5 of 5 Stars
Series: A Lady’s Guide #2
Publication Date: 11/16/21
Period: Victorian England - 1867
Number of Pages: 352
I smiled and sighed the entire way through this delightfully witty, romantic, and entertaining book. Our socially mismatched protagonists were secretly betrothed two years ago, but she called it off because she realized he was as snobbish as the rest of his family and her life would be miserable if she married him. Now, her good friend and his cousin have been kidnapped and they’ll have to work together to save them. Can they put aside their pasts and work together? Will their love be rekindled? Ooooh – you’ll just have to read it to see.
We first met Caro and Val in ‘A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Mayhem’, and I’ve been anxiously awaiting their story – and it was well worth the wait. I was instantly smitten with both characters and I thoroughly enjoyed watching them rekindle their love and work out their differences.
Miss Caroline Hardcastle is many things – a journalist, a writer of cookbooks, a fierce believer in class equality, a tiny pocket Venus, an excessively wealthy heiress, a loving (but put upon) daughter, a devotedly loyal friend, and very, very independent. When she learns one of her best friends, Effie Warrington, a very popular actress, has been kidnapped, Caro will do whatever it takes to find and rescue her. Caro knows Effie is betrothed to – and madly in love with – Francis Thorn. Caro also knows, thanks to the newspaper column she writes, the men in a woman’s life are the ones who usually cause her harm. Did Francis have something to do with Effie’s disappearance? When she arrives at Effie’s home to learn all of the details, she’s shocked at who is already there. Val is Francis’s cousin and he’s there to ‘save’ him. Caro and Val are hissing at each other from the moment Caro enters the room, so how can they begin to work together to save Effie – especially when Caro thinks Val’s only interest is protecting his cousin and the precious Thorn family name.
Valentine Thorn, newly minted Viscount Wrackham, has had a very hard time over the last two years. First, he lost the only woman he’s ever loved because he wasn’t man enough to stand up for her against his brother’s snobbish comments about her and her parents. Then, he lost his brother in a senseless accident. After a year of mourning for his beloved brother, his cousin has been attacked during the abduction of his betrothed. He knows Caro will immediately believe Francis is responsible for harming Effie – but Val knows Francis couldn’t have had anything to do with it and it is his job to protect him.
Though they are wary of each other, and Caro doesn’t trust Val, they have to find a way to work together if they are going to save Effie – and Francis. Val has learned a lot in the two years since Caro broke their betrothal and he’s learning he needs to stand up to his family – particularly his father. When their investigation causes Caro to be compromised, their marriage is the only way to save her reputation. Can Val stand up to his father and protect Caro from his class snobbishness? Can Caro learn to trust Val again? Can they trust each other enough to let themselves fully love each other again?
I can definitely recommend this highly entertaining, romantic, and witty book. The romance is wonderful and there is even a lovely epilogue. You’ll love all of the characters – and – we spend some time with the protagonists in the next book – Miss Flora Deaver and the Duke of Langham. Sadly, we’ll have to wait until this time next year for their book. It will, I’m sure, be worth the wait.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: A Lady’s Guide #2
Publication Date: 11/16/21
Period: Victorian England - 1867
Number of Pages: 352
I smiled and sighed the entire way through this delightfully witty, romantic, and entertaining book. Our socially mismatched protagonists were secretly betrothed two years ago, but she called it off because she realized he was as snobbish as the rest of his family and her life would be miserable if she married him. Now, her good friend and his cousin have been kidnapped and they’ll have to work together to save them. Can they put aside their pasts and work together? Will their love be rekindled? Ooooh – you’ll just have to read it to see.
We first met Caro and Val in ‘A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Mayhem’, and I’ve been anxiously awaiting their story – and it was well worth the wait. I was instantly smitten with both characters and I thoroughly enjoyed watching them rekindle their love and work out their differences.
Miss Caroline Hardcastle is many things – a journalist, a writer of cookbooks, a fierce believer in class equality, a tiny pocket Venus, an excessively wealthy heiress, a loving (but put upon) daughter, a devotedly loyal friend, and very, very independent. When she learns one of her best friends, Effie Warrington, a very popular actress, has been kidnapped, Caro will do whatever it takes to find and rescue her. Caro knows Effie is betrothed to – and madly in love with – Francis Thorn. Caro also knows, thanks to the newspaper column she writes, the men in a woman’s life are the ones who usually cause her harm. Did Francis have something to do with Effie’s disappearance? When she arrives at Effie’s home to learn all of the details, she’s shocked at who is already there. Val is Francis’s cousin and he’s there to ‘save’ him. Caro and Val are hissing at each other from the moment Caro enters the room, so how can they begin to work together to save Effie – especially when Caro thinks Val’s only interest is protecting his cousin and the precious Thorn family name.
Valentine Thorn, newly minted Viscount Wrackham, has had a very hard time over the last two years. First, he lost the only woman he’s ever loved because he wasn’t man enough to stand up for her against his brother’s snobbish comments about her and her parents. Then, he lost his brother in a senseless accident. After a year of mourning for his beloved brother, his cousin has been attacked during the abduction of his betrothed. He knows Caro will immediately believe Francis is responsible for harming Effie – but Val knows Francis couldn’t have had anything to do with it and it is his job to protect him.
Though they are wary of each other, and Caro doesn’t trust Val, they have to find a way to work together if they are going to save Effie – and Francis. Val has learned a lot in the two years since Caro broke their betrothal and he’s learning he needs to stand up to his family – particularly his father. When their investigation causes Caro to be compromised, their marriage is the only way to save her reputation. Can Val stand up to his father and protect Caro from his class snobbishness? Can Caro learn to trust Val again? Can they trust each other enough to let themselves fully love each other again?
I can definitely recommend this highly entertaining, romantic, and witty book. The romance is wonderful and there is even a lovely epilogue. You’ll love all of the characters – and – we spend some time with the protagonists in the next book – Miss Flora Deaver and the Duke of Langham. Sadly, we’ll have to wait until this time next year for their book. It will, I’m sure, be worth the wait.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 5, 2022
As the daughter of a businessman, heiress to his company, and a writer herself, Miss Caroline Hardcastle has found herself with a rather unsavory reputation amongst high society. Their snobbery caused her to break things off with the only man she’s ever loved, but she’s happy enough using her column to draw attention to crimes the Ton would otherwise have never noticed.
But when one of Caro’s good friends is kidnapped, she finds herself forced to work with her former heartbreak, Lord Valentine Thorn. When her investigation leads her into a scandalous situation that threatens problems for her father’s business, she finds herself with little choice but to marry Val, even as she wonders if she can trust him this time around.
Val, now Viscount Wrackham, has been struggling to get over his late brother’s death as he tries to assume his new role as heir to his father’s dukedom. Along with that duty comes the pressure to marry a suitable society lady and produce his own heir. Unfortunately, the only woman Val has ever been truly interested in has a wholly improper reputation and seems to still hate him for his mistakes, even if they were in the name of protecting his family and even if he does sorely regret them.
Val sees this investigation as the perfect opportunity to show Caro just how much he’s changed and to convince her that their marriage can truly succeed and that their love is just as alive as ever.
I really did not care for the first book in this series, so I was a bit dubious about the follow-up, but I like mystery and suspense in romance, so I decided to give it a try. I’m happy to say I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. This time around a much better balance has been found between the mystery and the romance and between the idea of women having few options in life and genuine character development. Caroline was downright insufferable in the first book with her utter detestation of virtually all men but that was thankfully tempered here. She still had some of those same ideas and was recognizable as the same independent, strong character, but she also showed a new maturity and an ability to recognize her own faults and mistakes, to take a step back from her impulsive tendencies and think. This time around Caroline was willing to examine the circumstances and feelings of others, especially those of her family and of Val and reevaluate accordingly. Likewise, Val opened his eyes more to how his complacency when it came to his father’s snobbery had been taken as tacit agreement or approval and he took steps to rectify the situation. I loved that there was very little hemming and hawing about the reasons Val couldn’t or shouldn't be with Caroline even though she was the one he wanted. Circumstances brought them together and he stood his ground and refused to be swayed. No muss, no fuss, very little drama; just the way I like it. The mystery was strong here and very easy to become invested in. I think it was handled well and I loved that Val and Caroline worked together to save their friends rather than not trusting each other. It was nice to see their relationship develop, and trust deepen through that process, especially given their strong chemistry. It also must be said that I read and listened to this on audio and, as Mary Jane Wells happens to be one of my favorite narrators, her rendition of this story very likely contributed to my enjoyment of it as well. Either way, I greatly appreciated the open communication between Val and Caroline, and I hope to see more of that sort of emotional maturity in the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
But when one of Caro’s good friends is kidnapped, she finds herself forced to work with her former heartbreak, Lord Valentine Thorn. When her investigation leads her into a scandalous situation that threatens problems for her father’s business, she finds herself with little choice but to marry Val, even as she wonders if she can trust him this time around.
Val, now Viscount Wrackham, has been struggling to get over his late brother’s death as he tries to assume his new role as heir to his father’s dukedom. Along with that duty comes the pressure to marry a suitable society lady and produce his own heir. Unfortunately, the only woman Val has ever been truly interested in has a wholly improper reputation and seems to still hate him for his mistakes, even if they were in the name of protecting his family and even if he does sorely regret them.
Val sees this investigation as the perfect opportunity to show Caro just how much he’s changed and to convince her that their marriage can truly succeed and that their love is just as alive as ever.
I really did not care for the first book in this series, so I was a bit dubious about the follow-up, but I like mystery and suspense in romance, so I decided to give it a try. I’m happy to say I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. This time around a much better balance has been found between the mystery and the romance and between the idea of women having few options in life and genuine character development. Caroline was downright insufferable in the first book with her utter detestation of virtually all men but that was thankfully tempered here. She still had some of those same ideas and was recognizable as the same independent, strong character, but she also showed a new maturity and an ability to recognize her own faults and mistakes, to take a step back from her impulsive tendencies and think. This time around Caroline was willing to examine the circumstances and feelings of others, especially those of her family and of Val and reevaluate accordingly. Likewise, Val opened his eyes more to how his complacency when it came to his father’s snobbery had been taken as tacit agreement or approval and he took steps to rectify the situation. I loved that there was very little hemming and hawing about the reasons Val couldn’t or shouldn't be with Caroline even though she was the one he wanted. Circumstances brought them together and he stood his ground and refused to be swayed. No muss, no fuss, very little drama; just the way I like it. The mystery was strong here and very easy to become invested in. I think it was handled well and I loved that Val and Caroline worked together to save their friends rather than not trusting each other. It was nice to see their relationship develop, and trust deepen through that process, especially given their strong chemistry. It also must be said that I read and listened to this on audio and, as Mary Jane Wells happens to be one of my favorite narrators, her rendition of this story very likely contributed to my enjoyment of it as well. Either way, I greatly appreciated the open communication between Val and Caroline, and I hope to see more of that sort of emotional maturity in the next book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book and its audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Blog link: https://mustreadalltheromance.blogspo...
July 27, 2023
no so yea I'm obsessed with this and the first book. kidnapping mystery and marriage of convenience?! sign me all the way tf up QUICKLY.
December 26, 2021
‘England, 1867 : As half of the writing duo behind England's most infamous crime column, Miss Caroline Hardcastle has quite the scandalous reputation. It may have cost her a fiancé, but she would much rather bring attention to crimes against those ignored by society than worry about what the ton thinks of her.
After Caro's dear friend is kidnapped, however, she has no choice but to work with Lord Valentine Thorn, the same man who broke her heart. Worse, when her actions put her father's business at risk, a marriage of convenience may be her only solution . . . but can she trust Val to stand by her? Or will their past repeat itself?
Val--the new Viscount Wrackham--is in an untenable position: His father is demanding he find a respectable bride to secure the succession. Yet the only woman he's ever loved, Miss Caroline Hardcastle, is notorious for behaving improperly. And she's never forgiven him for his youthful transgressions, missteps made in the name of familial duty, but ones he still regrets to this day.
As they grow closer to unmasking the culprit, Val sees an opportunity to show Caro he's a changed man. But can he convince her to give their love a second chance--before death does them part?’
________________
An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire is the second book in Mirand Collins’ A Lady’s Guide series and is a historical mystery and romance.
I did not read the previous book in the series and this is the first book by this author that I have read. I do think that my reading was impacted by not having read the first book in the series and so I recommend reading A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Mayhem prior to starting this book. Val and Caro were previously involved in a secret engagement which ended on less than amicable terms during the first book and this is a source of great tension between them when they meet again for this investigation. We are given an overview of how things went wrong between them, but much of the substance of their relationship is tied up in their early connection. I think had I been more familiar with their earlier relationship, the resolution between them may have felt more satisfying, but based on just this book things felt rushed over to me.
The mystery of missing individuals (and I’ll be vague so as to not give anything away here) was intended to be the most central plot point, but that thread seems to be dropped a bit on more than one occasion. I’m afraid I would not feel the least comforted to know these characters were searching for me if I were missing. Things do get back on course with the mystery though and there is a satisfactory amount of danger here, which will always be my favorite aspect of any mystery. I thought the last quarter of the book was where the story was really able to shine and was the part of the story I enjoyed most.
Overall, I found Val and Caro to be cute and I think it was sweet that they got a second chance together. They mystery had a dramatic introduction, which was followed by a bit of meandering, but everything came together in the end and I enjoyed the resolution.
I would possibly read more in this series, but I think only after going back to read the first book of the series as I want to ensure I would have all the necessary background information before starting the next book.
_____
I would like to thank NetGalley and Forever(Grand Central Publishing) for sharing an eARC of An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire with me. This is my honest review.
After Caro's dear friend is kidnapped, however, she has no choice but to work with Lord Valentine Thorn, the same man who broke her heart. Worse, when her actions put her father's business at risk, a marriage of convenience may be her only solution . . . but can she trust Val to stand by her? Or will their past repeat itself?
Val--the new Viscount Wrackham--is in an untenable position: His father is demanding he find a respectable bride to secure the succession. Yet the only woman he's ever loved, Miss Caroline Hardcastle, is notorious for behaving improperly. And she's never forgiven him for his youthful transgressions, missteps made in the name of familial duty, but ones he still regrets to this day.
As they grow closer to unmasking the culprit, Val sees an opportunity to show Caro he's a changed man. But can he convince her to give their love a second chance--before death does them part?’
________________
An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire is the second book in Mirand Collins’ A Lady’s Guide series and is a historical mystery and romance.
I did not read the previous book in the series and this is the first book by this author that I have read. I do think that my reading was impacted by not having read the first book in the series and so I recommend reading A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Mayhem prior to starting this book. Val and Caro were previously involved in a secret engagement which ended on less than amicable terms during the first book and this is a source of great tension between them when they meet again for this investigation. We are given an overview of how things went wrong between them, but much of the substance of their relationship is tied up in their early connection. I think had I been more familiar with their earlier relationship, the resolution between them may have felt more satisfying, but based on just this book things felt rushed over to me.
The mystery of missing individuals (and I’ll be vague so as to not give anything away here) was intended to be the most central plot point, but that thread seems to be dropped a bit on more than one occasion. I’m afraid I would not feel the least comforted to know these characters were searching for me if I were missing. Things do get back on course with the mystery though and there is a satisfactory amount of danger here, which will always be my favorite aspect of any mystery. I thought the last quarter of the book was where the story was really able to shine and was the part of the story I enjoyed most.
Overall, I found Val and Caro to be cute and I think it was sweet that they got a second chance together. They mystery had a dramatic introduction, which was followed by a bit of meandering, but everything came together in the end and I enjoyed the resolution.
I would possibly read more in this series, but I think only after going back to read the first book of the series as I want to ensure I would have all the necessary background information before starting the next book.
_____
I would like to thank NetGalley and Forever(Grand Central Publishing) for sharing an eARC of An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire with me. This is my honest review.
January 31, 2022
DNF 50%. 19th century characters with 21st century values. Sloppy writing, all tell, no show. Personal conflict resolved way too easily, romance is over the top.
November 30, 2021
3.5 stars
This was an entertaining marriage of convenience and second chance romance, with a healthy dose of mystery. Second chance is a tough trope to pull off sometimes, but the circumstances surrounding Caroline (Caro) and Valentine’s (Val) separation really worked. It allowed both characters the time necessary to grow and mature. I did feel that the mystery plot took center stage in the book and I would have preferred more of the focus be on Caro and Val’s romance. As much as I liked Val and Caro as a couple, I needed more page time showing them reconnecting and getting to know each other for their romance to truly work. Unfortunately, after a strong start, the pacing slowed and the story lost momentum, which made the book feel overly long.
I really loved the strong female characters and friendships in the book. I appreciated that Caro and Kate relied on their intellect and ingenuity to get out of sticky situations, instead of waiting to be rescued. I also enjoyed seeing the sparks fly between Flora and the Duke of Langham and am interested to see how their story unfolds in the next book.
Audiobook Review
Overall 3.5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Overall 3-3.5 stars
Mary Jane Wells is my favorite historical romance narrator. I am always impressed by her ability to perform a wide variety of accents and characters in a clear and unique way. It’s always a wonderful listening experience when she narrates.
* I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book *
This was an entertaining marriage of convenience and second chance romance, with a healthy dose of mystery. Second chance is a tough trope to pull off sometimes, but the circumstances surrounding Caroline (Caro) and Valentine’s (Val) separation really worked. It allowed both characters the time necessary to grow and mature. I did feel that the mystery plot took center stage in the book and I would have preferred more of the focus be on Caro and Val’s romance. As much as I liked Val and Caro as a couple, I needed more page time showing them reconnecting and getting to know each other for their romance to truly work. Unfortunately, after a strong start, the pacing slowed and the story lost momentum, which made the book feel overly long.
I really loved the strong female characters and friendships in the book. I appreciated that Caro and Kate relied on their intellect and ingenuity to get out of sticky situations, instead of waiting to be rescued. I also enjoyed seeing the sparks fly between Flora and the Duke of Langham and am interested to see how their story unfolds in the next book.
Audiobook Review
Overall 3.5 stars
Performance 5 stars
Overall 3-3.5 stars
Mary Jane Wells is my favorite historical romance narrator. I am always impressed by her ability to perform a wide variety of accents and characters in a clear and unique way. It’s always a wonderful listening experience when she narrates.
* I voluntarily read and listened to an advance review copy of this book *
March 20, 2022
So much of telling not but showing, anyway I wad bored.
December 5, 2021
This was fun and another one that set up the next book REALLY well.
April 23, 2024
I surprisingly enjoyed that, it was really fun!
September 1, 2023
Okay I think I might be insane but I need to talk about this and if I’m wrong I’m wrong, but if I’m not then I might not be the only one who noticed -
But okay so I read the first book right ? And valentine to the detective dude was like “oh yes Caro and I had a falling out because EHE was going to marry ANOTHER MAN who goes to brothels and it was unsavory and I told her NOT TO MARRY /HIM/ and she took it poorly” EMPHASIS ON THE OTHER MAN OF THIS CONVO.
and so that was their history and I was like hmm okay so they liked each other but he wouldn’t marry her so she was going to marry someone else and then he ruined her marriage and NOW book two it’s marriage of convenience time. That’s cool. That’s a fun plot. I can get behind that.
And NOW cut to this book and Caro is like “oh we had a falling out because WE were ENGAGED and he DIDN’T STAND UP FOR ME BOO HOO” and THAT was their turmoil ? So now it’s actually second chance romance and this mysterious ne’er do well mystery man who goes to brothels was NEVER MENTIONED AGAIN.
So I literally could not pay attention to a single thing going on during this book because all I could remember was that the WHOLE PLOT OF THEIR BACKSTORY CHANGED from book one to book two ?? And ALSO ? THEIR FRIEND WAS LITERALLY KIDNAPPED. LIKE SHE WAS M I S S I N G - and they were like “okay. we are going to 1. ask some questions 2. flirt with each other 3. find out a family member goes missing 4. get married 5. sex. 6. oh shoot our friend is STILL MISSING.
WHAT. W H A T ???????
THE BITCH WAS MISSING. FOR WEEKS. like she lost her virginity but THIS BITCH WAS FULL ON LOST.
I need someone to please explain to me if I am incorrect in the one conversation in the first book that completely rewrote their history because I cannot stop thinking about that. I just can’t.
‼️OKAY UPDATE: so I looked it up because fuck me if I’m wrong, but I WAS RIGHT. So in the first book on page 136-137 Valentine is talking about the man he warned Caro off of and he’s like “and she told me to mind my own affairs and that was the end of it all” and then it’s just NEVER BROUGHT UP A SINGLE TIME IN THE SECOND BOOK ONCE EVER. And that makes me so frustrated like where is the continuity.
But okay so I read the first book right ? And valentine to the detective dude was like “oh yes Caro and I had a falling out because EHE was going to marry ANOTHER MAN who goes to brothels and it was unsavory and I told her NOT TO MARRY /HIM/ and she took it poorly” EMPHASIS ON THE OTHER MAN OF THIS CONVO.
and so that was their history and I was like hmm okay so they liked each other but he wouldn’t marry her so she was going to marry someone else and then he ruined her marriage and NOW book two it’s marriage of convenience time. That’s cool. That’s a fun plot. I can get behind that.
And NOW cut to this book and Caro is like “oh we had a falling out because WE were ENGAGED and he DIDN’T STAND UP FOR ME BOO HOO” and THAT was their turmoil ? So now it’s actually second chance romance and this mysterious ne’er do well mystery man who goes to brothels was NEVER MENTIONED AGAIN.
So I literally could not pay attention to a single thing going on during this book because all I could remember was that the WHOLE PLOT OF THEIR BACKSTORY CHANGED from book one to book two ?? And ALSO ? THEIR FRIEND WAS LITERALLY KIDNAPPED. LIKE SHE WAS M I S S I N G - and they were like “okay. we are going to 1. ask some questions 2. flirt with each other 3. find out a family member goes missing 4. get married 5. sex. 6. oh shoot our friend is STILL MISSING.
WHAT. W H A T ???????
THE BITCH WAS MISSING. FOR WEEKS. like she lost her virginity but THIS BITCH WAS FULL ON LOST.
I need someone to please explain to me if I am incorrect in the one conversation in the first book that completely rewrote their history because I cannot stop thinking about that. I just can’t.
‼️OKAY UPDATE: so I looked it up because fuck me if I’m wrong, but I WAS RIGHT. So in the first book on page 136-137 Valentine is talking about the man he warned Caro off of and he’s like “and she told me to mind my own affairs and that was the end of it all” and then it’s just NEVER BROUGHT UP A SINGLE TIME IN THE SECOND BOOK ONCE EVER. And that makes me so frustrated like where is the continuity.
March 16, 2024
I really wanted to love this one, but it kind of fell flat to me. I thought there were just too many plot points with side character's disappearing as well as this being a second chance romance. It's like too many things were trying to fit into one story and none of them were as developed as they could have been. If there would have been less mystery, more romance or more mystery, less romance, I think it would have been better. That said, this was a very quick read and I still enjoyed it for the most part. If you enjoy historical romances and cozy mysteries, then this one is for you.
Read
September 10, 2021So this one’s my bad. While I saw this was a romance book, it’s really more of a mystery with romance mixed in.
That’s not what I was looking for, therefore my expectations were way out of line.
If you want a historical mystery with romance woven in, this is for you.
That’s not what I was looking for, therefore my expectations were way out of line.
If you want a historical mystery with romance woven in, this is for you.
November 22, 2021
An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire is a nice follow-up to last year's A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem. That one established Caroline and Katherine as a pair of newspaper sleuths who also happened to be ladies, and also introduced Valentine as a duke's second son who had a mysterious romantic past with Caro. Well, this book sees Val elevated to duke's heir, and we find out all about what happened between him and Caro. While they're figuring out their romantic relationship, they're also working on a new mystery involving Val's cousin and his celebrated actress fiancee (!) who has disappeared.
This is more romance with a heavy helping of mystery than it is a mystery with a dash of romance. There are historical romance conventions aplenty (including carriage ride makeouts, fake engagements, and awkward family gatherings in theater boxes), but the mystery is well-developed. It's also nice that the mystery is a disappearance, rather than another murder. Since we included it for the first book, rest assured HR lovers - yes, the book is steamy - but not too steamy!
9-Word Summaries:
Meg: Solving mysteries together can allow reevaluation of failed relationships.
Laine: Ruined by your ex during an investigation? Dual-purpose honeymoon.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
This is more romance with a heavy helping of mystery than it is a mystery with a dash of romance. There are historical romance conventions aplenty (including carriage ride makeouts, fake engagements, and awkward family gatherings in theater boxes), but the mystery is well-developed. It's also nice that the mystery is a disappearance, rather than another murder. Since we included it for the first book, rest assured HR lovers - yes, the book is steamy - but not too steamy!
9-Word Summaries:
Meg: Solving mysteries together can allow reevaluation of failed relationships.
Laine: Ruined by your ex during an investigation? Dual-purpose honeymoon.
This objective review is based on a complimentary copy of the novel.
December 8, 2021
The class mismatched couple thing is obviously going to be a consistent theme in this series.
This installment benefitted from Caro and Val having more of a backstory. I liked it...and Caro’s reason for walking away from Val was understandable (In the first book, Kate and Andrew’s relationship was very instalove). The mystery meandered a bit in the middle and I thought the timing of the wedding was totally bizarre. I mean, our friend and your cousin are missing, but let’s take a timeout for a rushed wedding!
The fact that the women figure things out is perfect and the conclusion is satisfactory, even though it’s kind of a stretch that Effie and Frank get married, too. It’s 1867, after all. The aristocracy wasn’t as enlightened as they’re given credit for at that point. It takes a bit longer.
Anyway, it’s cute and sweet, and a fast read.
This installment benefitted from Caro and Val having more of a backstory. I liked it...and Caro’s reason for walking away from Val was understandable (In the first book, Kate and Andrew’s relationship was very instalove). The mystery meandered a bit in the middle and I thought the timing of the wedding was totally bizarre. I mean, our friend and your cousin are missing, but let’s take a timeout for a rushed wedding!
The fact that the women figure things out is perfect and the conclusion is satisfactory, even though it’s kind of a stretch that Effie and Frank get married, too. It’s 1867, after all. The aristocracy wasn’t as enlightened as they’re given credit for at that point. It takes a bit longer.
Anyway, it’s cute and sweet, and a fast read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2022
'She thought about his words for the barest second. Maybe he was right. One different step along the way and they could have missed out on all this. She'd never been one to believe in the vagaries of fate, but she did believe in love.'
Manda Collins is back with a sequel to A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem, and it was an absolute treat to read. An Heiress' Guide to Deception and Desire is a second chance, enemies to lovers historical romance with an epic and twisting mystery plot. Four years after their broken betrothal, Caroline Hardcastle and Valentine Thorn must join forces when Caro's friend is kidnapped and Val's cousin is injured in the attack. With the help of Detective Inspector Eversham and Lady Katherine, they follow clues and alibis from London's theatres to Brighton's seaside to discover the answers. As Caro and Val spend more time in each other's company, will their broken hearts heal and their love grow?
My most hated historical romance trope was used: the 'oh-no-we've-been-caught-in-a-compromising-situation-we-should-marry-to-avoid-a-scandal.' While I was a little mad, Manda Collins swiftly settled my temper by making Caro and Val's relationship very cute. Because, above all, it was a second chance romance so there was already chemistry between these two characters. Neither Val nor Caro felt displeased nor angry about marrying one another because their feelings for one another hadn't dimmed since their broken betrothal. I commend Manda Collins for doing it right.
I really liked Manda Collins' writing style - it flowed so well on the page. The two main aspects of the plot: the romance and the mystery were well balanced. The romance was as developed as the mystery, and it felt like they got equal attention. I really loved the mystery - it was compelling, twisty and intriguing. It was very Penny Dreadful, which I liked, and I thought Collins unfolded the truth steadily and very well as the characters gathered information.
I'm greatly enjoying this historical romance series so far. The more I read it, the more I find historical romances with a mystery plot to be comforting. I'm excited for the third book, and I detected some chemistry between two certain characters so hopefully, it's about them!
Manda Collins is back with a sequel to A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem, and it was an absolute treat to read. An Heiress' Guide to Deception and Desire is a second chance, enemies to lovers historical romance with an epic and twisting mystery plot. Four years after their broken betrothal, Caroline Hardcastle and Valentine Thorn must join forces when Caro's friend is kidnapped and Val's cousin is injured in the attack. With the help of Detective Inspector Eversham and Lady Katherine, they follow clues and alibis from London's theatres to Brighton's seaside to discover the answers. As Caro and Val spend more time in each other's company, will their broken hearts heal and their love grow?
My most hated historical romance trope was used: the 'oh-no-we've-been-caught-in-a-compromising-situation-we-should-marry-to-avoid-a-scandal.' While I was a little mad, Manda Collins swiftly settled my temper by making Caro and Val's relationship very cute. Because, above all, it was a second chance romance so there was already chemistry between these two characters. Neither Val nor Caro felt displeased nor angry about marrying one another because their feelings for one another hadn't dimmed since their broken betrothal. I commend Manda Collins for doing it right.
I really liked Manda Collins' writing style - it flowed so well on the page. The two main aspects of the plot: the romance and the mystery were well balanced. The romance was as developed as the mystery, and it felt like they got equal attention. I really loved the mystery - it was compelling, twisty and intriguing. It was very Penny Dreadful, which I liked, and I thought Collins unfolded the truth steadily and very well as the characters gathered information.
I'm greatly enjoying this historical romance series so far. The more I read it, the more I find historical romances with a mystery plot to be comforting. I'm excited for the third book, and I detected some chemistry between two certain characters so hopefully, it's about them!
November 16, 2021
A light and fun historical romcom!
This is the second book in the A Lady’s Guide series. I read the first book in the series and really liked Caroline and Val’s characters and looked forward to their story.
I enjoyed the enemies to lovers/fake engagement part of this book. Also the witty banter between Caroline and Val. I do wish the enemies part of the story would have lasted a little longer before all was forgiven.
The mystery part of the book - what happened to Caro’s missing friend wasn’t complex enough to make it an engaging part of the story. Let’s just say, I wouldn’t want this group of people looking for me if I were lost!
The book does pick up at the end with some light steam, found friend, and a satisfying HEA.
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my hones review.
3.5 rounded up
This is the second book in the A Lady’s Guide series. I read the first book in the series and really liked Caroline and Val’s characters and looked forward to their story.
I enjoyed the enemies to lovers/fake engagement part of this book. Also the witty banter between Caroline and Val. I do wish the enemies part of the story would have lasted a little longer before all was forgiven.
The mystery part of the book - what happened to Caro’s missing friend wasn’t complex enough to make it an engaging part of the story. Let’s just say, I wouldn’t want this group of people looking for me if I were lost!
The book does pick up at the end with some light steam, found friend, and a satisfying HEA.
I received a free review copy from the publisher in exchange for my hones review.
3.5 rounded up
February 2, 2022
This book was fine but I walked away thinking I should have liked it more than I did. Some of that is mood, I read a lot of it over the weekend and I was not in the best frame of mind for anything, but it also just felt...overly long? And not sure if it wanted to be a mystery or a romance and so succeeded in being great at neither? I don't know. The existence of the cat was personally not great for me, though. Maybe that was the whole problem.
August 29, 2023
I loved this one! The first one was super fun but this one had some of my favorite tropes like marriage of convenience and kidnapping. I also loved how the ladies once again saved the day but their husbands were right behind them.
Caro and Valentine were secretly engaged until he didn’t stand up for her and she was like “boy bye!” Four years later, Val is still unmarried and his cousin’s fiancé goes missing. The fiancé is friends with Caro and they start working the case together.
Caro and Valentine were secretly engaged until he didn’t stand up for her and she was like “boy bye!” Four years later, Val is still unmarried and his cousin’s fiancé goes missing. The fiancé is friends with Caro and they start working the case together.
May 21, 2024
There’s just something about a second book in a historical romance series 😍
Fun regency mystery mixed with a 2nd chance romance. What’s not to love!
Fun regency mystery mixed with a 2nd chance romance. What’s not to love!
December 10, 2021
What a light and fun historical romance.
I believe this is the second book in a series, and since I didn't read the first one, I felt like I needed a bit more introduction about the characters, and instead I was thrown headfirst into Manda Collins' world. However, the best parts about An Hereiss's Guide to Deception and Desire are Caroline (Caro) and Val. They are so incredibly charming, their banter and attraction make this such a fun and interesting book.
Although there is an element of mystery throughout the plot, I think the delivery was a bit of a letdown. There's a ton of build-up and the conclusion wasn't as satisfying.
But, if you are a reader looking for a lighthearted fake-engagement/ enemies to lovers, romance, you will definitely have a good time with this one.
Thank you so much to the publisher for approving me for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I believe this is the second book in a series, and since I didn't read the first one, I felt like I needed a bit more introduction about the characters, and instead I was thrown headfirst into Manda Collins' world. However, the best parts about An Hereiss's Guide to Deception and Desire are Caroline (Caro) and Val. They are so incredibly charming, their banter and attraction make this such a fun and interesting book.
Although there is an element of mystery throughout the plot, I think the delivery was a bit of a letdown. There's a ton of build-up and the conclusion wasn't as satisfying.
But, if you are a reader looking for a lighthearted fake-engagement/ enemies to lovers, romance, you will definitely have a good time with this one.
Thank you so much to the publisher for approving me for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 8, 2023
Brace yourselves, I am absolutely in a historical romance mood, so this was a natural choice to read next.
Several years after their broken betrothal, Caro Hardcastle and Val Thorn are brought back together in the face of a kidnapping. Caro's actress friend and Val's cousin have both been taken, and time is running out for them to be found. The mystery takes them from London theatres to Brighton, in between their marriage of convenience that neither quite wants to admit is what they want.
I seem to have a knack for starting these romance series in the middle, but that's okay, since they can each stand alone. This one does seem to have a large amount of background for the two main characters that was shaped in the first book, but it did not leave me in the dark about anything. I was not expecting a mystery to be at the core of this. It was a pleasant surprise, to be honest, even if the kidnapping did feel to hog more of the book's attention rather than the romance I was looking forward to. It wasn't predictable, which I really appreciated. There are several suspects, but not once did I have a concrete guess until the characters themselves did.
The book alternates between Caroline's and Valentine's POVs. I enjoyed Val's chapters, but in a shocking twist I was not as much a fan of Caro as I expected to be. What I love about the historical romances written today is that most of them have strong feminist aspects, with women taking control where they can in a society that still highly favoured men. Caro just did not work for me with this lens. I found her to be a bit annoying with her demands to attend meetings and she didn't feel empowering as a character, as I'm sure was not the intent. Likewise with her friend, Kate. They didn't seem to fit.
The steam was a little disappointing. It tried to stay more true to the era, which, fair, but also phrases like "the bud of her pleasure" does not do it for me. I didn't quite get the chemistry between the pair of them either. There were moments, for sure, but it didn't really make me swoon like others have. I think that's part of what kept this book from really working for me: there wasn't much of a spark to it. The beginning felt quite distant, and it took a while for it to really get going in terms of story and romance.
I don't know that I want to hunt for a copy of the first book in this series, but I am interested in the third one because I definitely picked up on something between those two characters. 3.5 rounded up to 4.
Several years after their broken betrothal, Caro Hardcastle and Val Thorn are brought back together in the face of a kidnapping. Caro's actress friend and Val's cousin have both been taken, and time is running out for them to be found. The mystery takes them from London theatres to Brighton, in between their marriage of convenience that neither quite wants to admit is what they want.
I seem to have a knack for starting these romance series in the middle, but that's okay, since they can each stand alone. This one does seem to have a large amount of background for the two main characters that was shaped in the first book, but it did not leave me in the dark about anything. I was not expecting a mystery to be at the core of this. It was a pleasant surprise, to be honest, even if the kidnapping did feel to hog more of the book's attention rather than the romance I was looking forward to. It wasn't predictable, which I really appreciated. There are several suspects, but not once did I have a concrete guess until the characters themselves did.
The book alternates between Caroline's and Valentine's POVs. I enjoyed Val's chapters, but in a shocking twist I was not as much a fan of Caro as I expected to be. What I love about the historical romances written today is that most of them have strong feminist aspects, with women taking control where they can in a society that still highly favoured men. Caro just did not work for me with this lens. I found her to be a bit annoying with her demands to attend meetings and she didn't feel empowering as a character, as I'm sure was not the intent. Likewise with her friend, Kate. They didn't seem to fit.
The steam was a little disappointing. It tried to stay more true to the era, which, fair, but also phrases like "the bud of her pleasure" does not do it for me. I didn't quite get the chemistry between the pair of them either. There were moments, for sure, but it didn't really make me swoon like others have. I think that's part of what kept this book from really working for me: there wasn't much of a spark to it. The beginning felt quite distant, and it took a while for it to really get going in terms of story and romance.
I don't know that I want to hunt for a copy of the first book in this series, but I am interested in the third one because I definitely picked up on something between those two characters. 3.5 rounded up to 4.
November 16, 2021
On my blog.
Galley provided by publisher
In general, I had somewhat mixed feelings over An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire. I guess I thought similarly over the first book in the series, although there maybe it mattered less because I liked the romance more. So, while I did like this one, I never really loved it.
The Good
— The mystery was, as with the previous book, very compelling, and well-constructed. The mystery is really what kept me reading it, even as the pace of it slowed, I wanted to find out just what had happened to Effie and Frank.
— There was no third act break up! Which, for me, was great because there’s no way it might have believably worked here in my opinion. Okay, so maybe if I sat and thought about it, and restructured the entire plot… But with everything as it was, it was great that the MCs just… talked out any issues they had like adults.
The Less Good (I Hesitate To Say “Bad” Because I Didn’t Think They Were Bad, Just Less Good)
— I never felt like there was any reason to want Caro and Val together. In book 1, they’d seemed like they could have something good, with plenty of tension and past hurts. But—and I hate to say this immediately after saying it was good they communicated—that was dispensed with too early. In fact, it was dispensed with within a day, with respect to how the plot played out. There was never time to feel the tension between them because they’d already moved onto the next stage of their relationship. Much better would have been to have them working together for longer and then realising they’d slowly fallen back in love and forgiven one another.
— Actually that’s probably the biggest thing, but come on. It’s a romance novel. I have to want the romance. Instead, I just felt a little ...meh about it. They were alright together, it was readable. It wasn’t amazing, though.
— Wait, I remembered one more thing: please stop bashing me over the head with “these men are not misogynists. They believe women are oppressed!”, like I get it. These are the heroes and love interests. You want them to be sympathetic, aka not misogynistic. But I get it after the first mention, no need to flog a dead horse!
Galley provided by publisher
In general, I had somewhat mixed feelings over An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire. I guess I thought similarly over the first book in the series, although there maybe it mattered less because I liked the romance more. So, while I did like this one, I never really loved it.
The Good
— The mystery was, as with the previous book, very compelling, and well-constructed. The mystery is really what kept me reading it, even as the pace of it slowed, I wanted to find out just what had happened to Effie and Frank.
— There was no third act break up! Which, for me, was great because there’s no way it might have believably worked here in my opinion. Okay, so maybe if I sat and thought about it, and restructured the entire plot… But with everything as it was, it was great that the MCs just… talked out any issues they had like adults.
The Less Good (I Hesitate To Say “Bad” Because I Didn’t Think They Were Bad, Just Less Good)
— I never felt like there was any reason to want Caro and Val together. In book 1, they’d seemed like they could have something good, with plenty of tension and past hurts. But—and I hate to say this immediately after saying it was good they communicated—that was dispensed with too early. In fact, it was dispensed with within a day, with respect to how the plot played out. There was never time to feel the tension between them because they’d already moved onto the next stage of their relationship. Much better would have been to have them working together for longer and then realising they’d slowly fallen back in love and forgiven one another.
— Actually that’s probably the biggest thing, but come on. It’s a romance novel. I have to want the romance. Instead, I just felt a little ...meh about it. They were alright together, it was readable. It wasn’t amazing, though.
— Wait, I remembered one more thing: please stop bashing me over the head with “these men are not misogynists. They believe women are oppressed!”, like I get it. These are the heroes and love interests. You want them to be sympathetic, aka not misogynistic. But I get it after the first mention, no need to flog a dead horse!
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December 31, 2021I don't know what about this didn't work for me but ... I just couldn't do it. Everything was there - the slightly new spin on a long-used plot, the tension between characters, great setting, etc. It just didn't work for me. Reading this was like wearing shoes that you have always wanted, but end up being slightly too small around your toes. The anticipation, the excitement, the confidence that you will do lots of fun stuff while wearing them -- all of that fades to the background as you fixate on the annoying pain in your toes and the fact that you wasted so much energy on a pair of shoes that just don't work.
I don't know if that makes sense. I am bummed, but on to the next one, eh?
I don't know if that makes sense. I am bummed, but on to the next one, eh?
November 20, 2021
Marvellously witty and undeniably addictive, the second instalment to the bestselling Historical Rom-Com A Lady’s Guide To Mischief and Mayhem didn’t disappoint, I loved every second of it!
It’s 1866 and Caroline Hardcastle has finally found purpose in her life, bringing attention to crimes against women. But her hard earned freedom is jeopardised when her parents offer her an ultimatum—marry into a title…or else.
Caro is sure no gentleman wants spinster journalist for a bride no matter how large her dowry. But when her friend goes missing,her best ally is the nobleman she’d once been betrothed to.
Since suffering devastating heartbreak, Lord Valentine Thorn has avoided marriage entirely. Only now, with his family’s future on the line does he agree to find a bride, with the condition is heart remains unattached. But when his cousin is entangled in the disappearance of an actress, he’s thrown back into contact with the only woman he’s ever wanted to marry.
Inspite of their complicated history, Val and Caro agree to an alliance (vowing to ignore the passion burning between them.) But with danger drawing near can they move on from the past before death does them part?
This was an absolutely addictive and entertaining read and I really enjoyed it. The characters were well written, the period details excellent and the romance phenomenal (Val and Caro were destined for one another) and their flirty banter was utterly entertaining.
I also enjoyed the mystery aspect which cleverly crafted gorgeously suspenseful.
Overall, this wickedly smart and hilariously flirty love child of Bridgerton and Enola Holmes is an absolute must read. I’d definitely recommend to romance and mystery lovers.
Also thanks to Little,Brown Book Group UK and Netgalley for the e-arc.
It’s 1866 and Caroline Hardcastle has finally found purpose in her life, bringing attention to crimes against women. But her hard earned freedom is jeopardised when her parents offer her an ultimatum—marry into a title…or else.
Caro is sure no gentleman wants spinster journalist for a bride no matter how large her dowry. But when her friend goes missing,her best ally is the nobleman she’d once been betrothed to.
Since suffering devastating heartbreak, Lord Valentine Thorn has avoided marriage entirely. Only now, with his family’s future on the line does he agree to find a bride, with the condition is heart remains unattached. But when his cousin is entangled in the disappearance of an actress, he’s thrown back into contact with the only woman he’s ever wanted to marry.
Inspite of their complicated history, Val and Caro agree to an alliance (vowing to ignore the passion burning between them.) But with danger drawing near can they move on from the past before death does them part?
This was an absolutely addictive and entertaining read and I really enjoyed it. The characters were well written, the period details excellent and the romance phenomenal (Val and Caro were destined for one another) and their flirty banter was utterly entertaining.
I also enjoyed the mystery aspect which cleverly crafted gorgeously suspenseful.
Overall, this wickedly smart and hilariously flirty love child of Bridgerton and Enola Holmes is an absolute must read. I’d definitely recommend to romance and mystery lovers.
Also thanks to Little,Brown Book Group UK and Netgalley for the e-arc.
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