WELL THIS WAS DELIGHTFUL. The heroine was A++, there was delightful pining to go around, and now all I want is Gertrude & Nobility Dad’s book (misnomer credit goes to Rachel). As always there was SO MUCH PLOT packed in here and I wish a few subplots had gotten more development (I would have loved the twist with Broderick and the Duchess yo have gone on a bit longer!), and I do wish there has been more action (vs buildup) re: the marquess’ revenge. Stephen was also a LITTLE SHIT THE WHOLE BOOK lord so let’s hope his attitude improves next book after having been shot.

NONETHELESS this sparked joy within me and that is what is important so yay.

I truly enjoyed this next novel in The Wicked Wallflowers series. It was a great read. I could not put it down! The past always comes back to haunt us, but the ones who accept you for who are are the best of people. Regina Spark has her own secrets, just like Broderick Killoran. Broderick saved Reggie years ago and she keeps her love for him a secret. Reggie has plans to open a music hall to help women survive on their own. She does not want to be the girl she was before. Broderick helped to her to see the strength she could have. Due to misinformation, Broderick assumes Reggie is betraying him and blackmails her. Broderick is a powerful, intimidating, ruthless, and protective man. He begins to see Reggie is a new light when she stands up to him and tries to fight his feelings towards her. While they keep their secrets, both their pasts begin to have an impact on their future and those they both love.

Yet another great book in this series! I enjoyed the growth off Broderick & Reggie. I wish to have seen more punishment to the evil person in Reggie’s past. Guess that makes me bloodthirsty!! Also, an interaction between Broderick’s Duke of his early years, and if he was ever forgiven, or still held responsible for the sins of others.

Look forward to Gertrude’s book and challenges she might may face!!

I am quite familiar with this author and have read several of her novels. Some have been hit or miss. This one was pleasantly good. I admired Regina's strength and determination to forge her own destiny outside of the hero's club. She has good reasons to leave and I was hoping the hero would understand sooner than he did. His determination to force Regina to comply with his demands forced a rift in their sweet friendship but I also think it forced him to truly see Regina for who she truly was. And that fire that burned between them grew and spread to real love. Both are good people at heart in spite of their circumstances. Too often these novels are written where the heroine is of lower class and anxious to make a match with a Duke. But here we have a couple of lower class making a difference within their communities.
Very well done and moving scenes. I'm glad the hero finally opened his eyes.
Thank you Netgalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.