Last in the Blakeley Manor series, in this installment Marigold is the focus. Though she is a ctivily trying to avoid marriage she can't help but be attracted to the irrascapal, irreverent, prodigal brother of the Duke who has finally returned home, that is somewhat abruptly ending up bleeding and almost unconscious in Marigold's bed one night is called returning home.
This is a lively, sexy, romp with brilliant banter between the two main characters that escalates as they spend more time together, Lord Leigh finding himself the unwanting, chaperone for Marigold's debut season when the Duke and Marigold's sister have to bow out of the job due to the Duchess' pregnancy.
This is the final chapter in the Blakeley saga and this one as with the previous installments is fast paced and entertaining, likeable, witty characters provide a fun romance to sink into for the afternoon.
I enjoyed all the books in the series and recommend them all. Fenna Edgewood is a master at writing sexy, regency romances filled with strong ladies and swoon-worthy Lords.
I give 5 stars and thank Wolf Publishing and Net Galley for the free ARC of this book, I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

My So-Called Scoundrel, the last book in the Blakeley Manor Series, is a delightful read and sees the return of the black sheep of the Blakeley family, Lord Leigh Blakeley, as he falls in love with the last of the Spencer siblings, Marigold, an unconventional debutante at the age of 22. What I loved most about Marigold is her intelligence, her willingness to serve others less fortunate than herself. to do good in the world and her big heart - so it is lovely to see a smart curvy girl find her own personal happiness with the man of her choice, the ever handsome and rakish Lord Leigh. And it is great to see that Leigh really isn't the rogue, or scoundrel (hence so-called) whom everyone has imagined him to be while he has been away from home. They are enjoyable characters that are easy to like and to root for their happy ending, and it is fun to see characters from previous novels in the series pop up and have a role in this book (specifically Lady Fulford, with a few glimpses of Dare and Laurel), as the family saga concludes. I think one drawback is that it shouldn't be read out of order (which I did) or as a standalone, since some of the characters from previous novels (like Caleb Bryce) are not as well defined as to how they fit in with the Blakeleys and why they are important to this story. There is some violence against women but also some involving Leigh, his uncle Royal and other men, but it is mostly off-page (which I appreciated).

I enjoyed this novel, which was well-written and filled with important issues facing women of the day such as not being allowed to learn medicine but finding a way nevertheless and the potential plight of unwed mothers to-be. I especially adored that the epilogue ended on a humorous note that left me smiling at the end and hopeful that Marigold and Leigh will have a long, happy and meaningful life together. I'm really looking forward to reading the author's next series when it comes out!

I received a free copy of this book as an eARC from NetGalley. This is my honest review of it, and all opinions expressed herein are my own.

Well this one starts off with a bang and is nonstop! Leigh falls through a window with a knife wound and bleeds on her bed! Marigold’s bed that is!
Well this is certainly not the best beginning for a meeting with a former maid turned sister-in-law with her brother-in-law.
Thank goodness they are not related! Leigh has secrets and Marigold has secret dreams and aspirations that land then smack dap in the middle of the 7 dials.
There is none stop action and a teary moment with Dare and his Duchess you definitely want to find out how that turns out!
These two are funny raw and honest! The road to a HEA is paved with a stabbing, rival suitor and a nemesis who falls pregnant!? Wow just wow! Couldn’t put it down! Bravo
I received a complimentary copy for my unbiased opinion.

Marigold Spencer went from a maid to the sister-in-law of a duke. The thought of a season is a waste of time, but it's what the duke and her sister want to provide. What she wants is to be useful. Working at a dispensary in Seven Dials is ideal. When her brother-in-law's younger brother ends up laying on her bed in the middle of the night in a pool of blood, Marigold it's exactly impressed. Leigh maybe known as a scoundrel, but everything he does is not what it seems. He leads a secret life of revenge. An intriguing plot of blooming love, commitment and a vow.
May have triggers for unwanted pregnancy.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

3.5 ⭐️

1.5 🌶️

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for a review.

This book started good and cute and as it progressed it got a little darker. Definitely some heavier topics pertaining to women being abused, harmed and being mistreated by society if they became pregnant. Very interesting discussions for the time period.

The FMC is plus sized and the rep was good, she was just living life and being a badass FMC. The MMC is a rake and supposed to be a chaperon for the FMC but after being saved by her he ends up realizing he is attacked to her and a relationship builds.



CW: blood, injury, violence, pregnancy, abortion, medical content, violence against women, violence, mention of kidnapping and death of a parent.

I have thoroughly enjoyed Fenna Edgewood’s Blakely Manor series and her latest book was just as delightful. This story involved Marigold, Laurel the Duchess of Dareford’s younger sister and Lord Leigh, the Duke’s younger brother. Marigold has never wanted to marry, has only wanted to care for the poor and underprivileged. Unfortunately, she is being pushed into the marriage mart and the girls of the ton are doing what they do best with someone who doesn’t quite fit in – being cruel and catty. Lord Leigh has the reputation of being a rake; for the most part, this is only a façade. His true character is much deeper, and he must hide it for personal reasons.

With Lord Leigh in the role of Marigold’s chaperone, they are quickly drawn to one another. Marigold is smart, spunky, bold, speaks her mind, and is not afraid of going after what she wants. Leigh is generous and caring yet continues to guard his secrets and as much as he does not want to marry, he does not want anyone else marrying Marigold. How dare they even get close to her?!? Is he willing to propose to keep others away? These two people bring out the best of each other – they accept each other for what and who they are and show the other they are enough exactly as they are.

This story is so well-written, and full of humor, jealously, intrigue, danger, witty, humorous banter, amazing chemistry, and family love. Fenna Edgewood’s loveable characters grab your attention from the beginning and the drama keeps you on the edge of your seat. Hold on for another fantastic ride with the Blakely and Spencer families. I hope there are spin-offs with a few secondary characters from this book. There are a few who are definitely worthy of their own stories. Thank you to Ms. Edgewood, Wolf Publishing, and NetGalley for an Advanced Reader Copy. I voluntarily read the book and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

An outstanding continuance of the Blakely and Spenser family saga. When Lord Leigh has to chaperone Miss Marigold Spencer things start to heat up! A relucent debutante that just wants to practice medicine and rake turned assassin dance around their feelings for each other until circumstances make them face their feelings. I love what Fenna did with these characters stories. It was a delightful book that kept me enthralled to the end.

So sons other than the heir are suppose to be scoundrels right? Well he was once but not so much now. Not knowing which way to go after this. The new duchess' sister sheds some light into a dark path.
This was a fast moving book without any down time.
I enjoyed this book and the sides stories that were presented.
I recieved a free copy so that I might tell you what I honestly think. Hope you enjoyed my review. Now go enjoy the book.

3.5 ⭐

My So-Called Scoundrel by Fenna Edgewood

(NOTE: I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review)

Fenna Edgewood novels are the literary equivalent of a cream puff: sweet, delicious, and fluffy. They also can be counted on to have feisty three-dimensional FMC and men who appreciate them. My So-Called Scoundrel is no different.

Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was a refreshing palate cleanser after the dreary The Maidens before I dive back into Throne of Glass. The ending was a bit rushed for me, but otherwise it was a fun romp.

My So-Called Scoundrel is the latest installment in Edgeworth's Blakely Manor series, but it definitely works as a standalone book.

Read it if you enjoy:
💕 Regency romance (think Bridgerton vibes)
💕 Plus-size, hot AF leading ladies
💕 Reformed rakes
💕 Slow burn
💕 Spicy books

[Final note: the Leigh in my head is so much sexier than the guy on this cover. Cover guy is way too boring to be Leigh. 😋]

Miss Marigold Spencer is facing a debut season with the ton, a season she does not want. She is not really interested in marrying, what she is interested in is helping those less fortunate through nursing/doctoring. Lord Leigh Blakely is the scoundrel younger son of a duke, who is not currently interested in marrying because he has vengeance on his mind. The banter between the main characters is fun, the story of how their mutual attraction becomes love is well told, but there are weighty issues tackled here as well. With well defined characters and an interesting plot, this was an enjoyable read and a great end to the series. I received and ARC of this book from the author via Netgalley, and this is my honest and voluntary review.

Immeasurably fun, boldly witty & deeply touching!
The perfect way to round off a series packed with heart, a slap of bittersweet reality and romance charged adventure. All wrapped up in an engaging, witty and fascinating, joy infused style of writing that not only makes you laugh, but touches you deeply, flows beautifully and really makes you care for the characters depicted.
Leigh and Marigold are that fascinating breed of character that are so much more than they first appear; where the enjoyment and intrigue is in the peeling back of each multifaceted layer. So full of substance, wit, a shot of unpredictability and fallibility, yet with an integral core of kindness that underpins who they truly are.
Leigh the epitome of a good-time Charlie -appearing altogether too certain of himself- hides a wealth of pain, insecurity, substance and devotion beneath a carefree facade, charismatic allure and smooth humour, where you can't help but want to unpick his dark secrets.
Marigold caught between two worlds as the exhousemaid come sister of a duke is no where near the unlucky, awkward and plain lady the ton would lead you to believe. She has this radiance that shines through; a vivacious spirit that is smart, resourceful, refreshingly honest and purpose driven.
Together they light up whichever room they spar in that I found myself eagerly hunting their next sparking clinch and duel of effortlessly witty banter that glowed with a warmth and connection that was both hilarious and deeply moving. That by the end of their first meet I couldn't stop smiling and was indeed irrevocably hooked, reeled in and thoroughly eager to be taken on their journey. They are just so damn likeable!
With an injection of darkness, bitterness and a few harsh realities, that so captivatingly highlights the joys, love, loyalty and encompassing push and pull dynamics of the Blakeley-Spencer extended family, it took no effort to become seemlessly entangled in the emotional ebbs and witty flows of Marigold and Leigh's tale.
A quick paced, endearingly good fun misadventure, with a delicious slice of character building steam and growth that rounds of a most enjoyably entertaining series; all round highly recommended!

Another Blakeley Manor book makes this story interesting as it references previous characters of ran added charm and continuity. Leigh has led a life in the shadows and Marigold is outspoken about not having a season or husband hunting. As Leigh is wounded, falling into her bed ( which was his own room and bed previously) their lives begin to intertwine as there is threat of ruin and fear of commitment. I enjoyed the banter and the storyline kept me engaged.

I enjoyed this 3rd book in the series, but not as much as the first three. It left me with lots of questions and I feel like it needed at least another chapter or two to wrap up other storylines that the writer included to enhance the initial plot.

I did love that the H/h were not your typical "Ton" characters. Marigold wasn't the thin, tall, beautiful debutante. Leigh wasn't the tall, dark and handsome typical Lord. Good storyline, but for a reader just picking up this book they needed additional backstory on the missing parents, siblings marriages on both sides.

I'd love a full story on Bryce and Carlotta.

I received an ARC of this story and it in no way affected my honest review.

Delightful way to end the series

Marigold and Leigh are the last singles in their respective sibling groups, with each of their other siblings paired off together, so it seems predestined that these two would end up together. Unless they have anything to say about it. Marigold is far too down-to-earth for a renown rake like Leigh. She doesn't even want to have a Season, much less one chaperoned by a man with his reputation. But her sister's in the family way so Marigold is reluctant to refuse her anything, so off they go to see about finding Marigold a husband.

I really loved the way Marigold is portrayed. While she certainly has the connections for a Season, she has had the upbringing of one in the working class and she has no intentions of leaving that life behind. She's dedicated to helping others, and I loved that she found her way to Maggie's dispensary and found a greater purpose in her life.

Leigh has no interest in settling down at all, much less with a young woman who'd rather build a career than marry into the aristocracy. But as his friends start showing interest in his lively and beautiful companion, he is suddenly confronted with feelings of jealousy that he has no idea what to do with. Until he finds himself making a counter offer and, more to his surprise, finds that he means it.

I really enjoyed getting the full story of what happened to the Blakeley siblings' parents, and I was very satisfied with how that storyline was concluded. I loved that Marigold had a strong sense of her own worth, especially dealing with the "mean girls" of the ton. I enjoyed the slow build-up of their respect and love for each other, especially with how far Leigh was willing to go to prove himself to her. I also was happy to see some closure for Caleb Bryce and Carlotta, and appreciated how their storyline was used to address an important issue for women's rights.

The only thing I didn't like is that the author seems to have no respect for her own timeline. As with the previous book in this series, their are glaring timeline discrepancies that can only be overlooked by someone who is only reading one of the books in the series. Since there are multiple storylines that overlap two or more books, that kind of oversight is difficult to ignore.

Still, if you've read any of the other books, you'll want to read this one to see how everything is wrapped up. The writing is overall very good, and the characters are charming and realistic. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

This book was a page turner somewhat sorta enemies-to-lovers romance. Basic premise is the trusting to love again. While both have issues to overcome. It deals with emotions and expectations of societal roles of men, women, rich, and poor. I like the POV of both H&H. The supporting characters were enjoyable and made the book fun. I like the back-and-forth chemistry of the H&H. I did find ending a little rushed and still have questions on ending and plot twists. I would recommend this to other people because this author is good and worth getting to know.

***I received this book from NetGalley and publisher for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

This was such a good book to add to the series. I have been following this series about a family where the mother was of a noble class and the father a vicar and there 4 siblings, and they all end up marrying into an aristocratic family of a duke. This book is about the last couple.
This book may contain spoilers.
The heroine is the youngest of four siblings. They all work in the household of a duke, at least, until the oldest sister marries the duke. The heroine finds herself moved from maid to debutante. Her sister, the duchess, is with child and has already lost a previous pregnancy. So the heroine goes to London with the godmother of the ducal family. Since the duke and duchess are awaiting the birth of their child, she has to go as the ward of the younger brother of the duke. He is a black sheep that has been away for years. Supposedly, he has been travelling and having a good time and is known as a scoundrel and rake. But what his family does not know is that he is the protege' of his uncle. The duke's father and mother were believed killed on a trip. But they had really been kidnapped. The mother was discovered the previous year, in poor health, and the duke negotiated her release. Their father had died about a year before the mother's release, at the hands of his captors. The younger son, the hero, has been taught how to fight, spy and reconnaissance by his uncle so they could look for his parents, their captors and seek revenge. They have kept this a secret from the rest of the family. The hero has one more revenge to take care of and then he can share with his family what he has been doing, the really story.
The heroine knows that the duke sponsors a hospital for the poor in Sevens Dial neighborhood. The heroine is not interested in a husband from society or society parties and balls. She wants to do something. She has worked all her life as a maid and being a debutante is not for her. She sneaks out and seeks the hospital and is volunteering there. Before they leave for London. The hero had crept into her room, thinking it was his, injured and bleeding. The heroine found the hero on her bed and bandaged him up and helped him to his own room. She is upset that he is going to be her protector and she is his ward when he is only 4 years older than her.
This story was fitting for the series. All.of the stories were solid, stand alone tales. They did not need a series to make them better, but it did. I liked all the characters and they all made sense. The settings and descriptions made me feel that I was there, in the book. I give this book 5 stars and recommend reading.

She is not into balls and the marriage mart but into the healing art. He is not the scoundrel he plays for society but is in pursuit of justice. Forced to escort her in society events bring them together has provided opportunities for their attraction for each other to progress to their HEA. Enjoyable read, and specially funny at the last part about burping a baby.

I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and leaving my review voluntarily.

I definitely recommend reading the previous books before this one in order to fully understand the motivations of the characters. Outwardly, Leigh is just another spoiled nobleman. However, there is much more to him than meets the eye. He has put his life on hold until he has gotten revenge on those who have hurt his family. Marigold is a bluestocking who is afraid of losing her freedom when she marries. As a woman, she is not allowed to purse her interest in medicine. She secretly volunteers at a clinic. There is some frank discussion of women's issues which might upset some readers, so be warned.
The conversations between Leigh and Marigold are full of wit. Lady Fulford and Harley were my favorite supporting characters. I'm hoping that both of them will appear in a future book. Harley would be the perfect hero in a marriage of convenience story! My only gripe with this book is the fact that Marigold's breasts are mentioned constantly. Even Lady Fulford discusses them at one point!
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and the author. This is my honest review.

My So-Called Scoundrel is a fun, spicy romance between a stubborn and independent woman and an even more stubborn and grumpy man.
Marigold is living with her sister and brother-in-law, trying to avoid marriage as long as she can. Leigh Blakeley has finally returned home. After helping a young woman being assaulted in an alley by two men, Leigh stumbled home and passed out in bed. But it turns out he climbed through the wrong window and landed in Marigold's bed, starting a funny conversation between Marigold and a half-conscious Leigh, who needs help with an accidental knife wound he didn't realise he had.
I really enjoyed this book. The banter between the two was brilliant. After Marigold claims Leigh 'ruined' her, he is tasked with being her escort for her Season. Her sister and brother-in-law intended to do this, but her pregnancy and ill health take priority.
This was my first novel by Fenna Edgewood, and I really enjoyed her writing. She made the characters really easy to connect with. Marigold and Leigh's chemistry was great. There were the odd points that the language didn't suit the time period, but I overlooked that and liked the plot, characters and writing overall.
I will definitely read the other siblings' books now, and I'm glad I could understand the story without having to read the previous novels first. From this point, they will only enrich the characters further.

This is the first book of this series I’ve read, so I wasn’t familiar with the backstory. Like many historical romance novels, though, the book works fine as a stand-alone. The context from the previous novels is explained in the beginning in a fairly natural and unobstrusive way.

For the most part, this was a really fun read. It definitely hints at tropes like a marriage of convenience/forced proximity, a hint of forbidden romance (which should have been more than a hint—why does every pair in this series have to marry their brother/sister in law?!), bit of a reformed rake/masters of disguise, and of course, the unmarriageable woman. I will say, though, that it doesn’t lean into any one of them too hard, and there is enough divergence to make the story feel a little fresh. There is some light drama and suspense but for a book with multiple stabbing, it was actually pretty light and feel-good. Dialogue was well-written and natural, and the spice level was probably around medium (not the central focus but definitely there).

If I was going to quibble with anything, it’d be these two points: first, while I appreciate and enjoy the body-type representation in the female MC, there is a little more focus on her weight than I’d ideally like. It’s a fine line between establishing a body type and pointing out how the FMC is larger, heavier, curvier, more voluptuous, etc etc in every character’s mind and thoughts. For the most part, the text stays on the right side but it sometimes veers a little too far into her weight being her defining characteristic.

Second, the “technically not incest” thing. Apparently that’s the whole theme of the series, but for me, the “technically” is doing a little too much work. It’s giving sweet home Alabama. I don’t want to have to pull out a family tree just to make sure I am not icked out by a couple. Can you imagine the next generation of this family?! Every child’s cousin is going to be genetically as close as a sibling. It’s weird.

So, while I can never give a book that I have to have a, “well, they aren’t technically related, they are just siblings-in-LAW” disclaimer 5 stars, I did find this a fresh take on regency and quite enjoyable. I’ll probably pick up some of the earlier books in this series—even if they are all siblings.