Review: An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire (Ladies Most Scandalous #2) by Manda Collins

 

An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire

(Ladies Most Scandalous #2)

by Manda Collins

November 16, 2021

Goodreads Summary:

Former lovers become reluctant allies in this delightfully witty historical rom-com from the bestselling author of A Lady's Guide to Mischief and Mayhem—for fans of Evie Dunmore, Enola Holmes, and Netflix's Bridgerton!

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?

Review

Manda Collins is quickly becoming a favourite author! I am not what I'd consider a fast reader but An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire had me flipping page after page at a faster rate than I normally read. I desperately needed to know!

An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire had excellent pacing. The addictive writing, transfixing mystery and sweet romance all contributed to my fast reading ability. I was rooted to the story dying to solve the case while enjoying the developing romance between Caro and Val. They provided a nice relief from the urgency of the mystery.

Caro, our unconventional heroine with a mind of her own, is smart, brave and relentless. She's bold enough to skirt the boundary of social acceptance but also keen enough to be conscious of proper womanly behaviour. "...it was the appearance of impropriety that mattered with polite society." (p. 111) Caro's boldness got her into a considerable amount of trouble but I greatly admire her courage and determination to make the best out of the most seemingly hopeless of situations.

To say I look forward to the foreshadowed pairing in the next book would be an understatement. With really only one scene together, their interaction was most intriguing to witness. I'm enthused to see what fire this unlikely pair will spark~

An Heiress's Guide to Deception and Desire is a wonderful addition to the A Lady's Guide series. I cannot wait to continue reading these ladies' stories!!! I want more, more and more! Please. And thank you.

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.