I really enjoyed this book and could not put it down! McGuire has created a fun, Victorian world full of intrigue, romance, and vivid characters. Pulling from some of my favorite tropes, McGuire crafted a fresh, fun narrative centering on Millicent Whittenburg, a wallflower with a deadly secret, and Beautfort Drake, a woman-hating war veteran. The characters both have to learn to trust again after deep betrayals, and watching them fight their attraction as they take those next steps on the way to their kiss-enforced marriage.

I really liked Millie's character-- she's a plus-size damsel who can handle her own distress, thank you very much! McGuire creates believably catty foils for Millie as well as strong, sisterly support, showing some of the struggles plus-sized women still face, as well as how to overcome those. Beau is delightfully dark, with scars from the war on both his body and his heart.

I found the dialogue quick and witty, the action scenes well-paced and well-described, and the settings lush and realistic. I really liked the mystery plot running parallel to the romance. I'm looking forward to reading more from McGuire!

Loved it.
How many knives can you secrete about your body? And can you learn hand to hand combat in a corset laced tight?
Well, you if you are one of the Queen's Deadly Damsels.
This is actually the second in the series, but works well as a stand alone.
And an Afghan war that we didn't win - again! Why can't politicians learn from history? The Great Game will always be won by the natives. They know their territory well and can always outwit those who insist on strict hierarchy and warfare. Loose connections and small cells are the way to win.
Sorry about the minor rant but the Aghani wars have been fought for hundreds of years and this book contains details of one - that did not work out well for the British soldiers who are written about.

I really enjoyed the historical romance element to this book, it was everything that I enjoyed about the genre and how characters worked in the setting. It had that spicyness that I wanted and enjoyed that the damsels weren’t so in distress. It left me wanting to read more in this series and from Darcy McGuire.

Firstly thank you to NetGalley and Bollward Books for providing me with an ARC copy.

I enjoy historical fiction and this was a. Unique take on a common storyline. Part adventure, part romance, part detective story this serves up some loveable main and side characters that will make you smile and laugh.

While not overly focussed on a time period this showcased some very interesting perspectives on what marriage can (and perhaps should) be. Second in the series it’s a true stand alone

I have actually never read a historical romance book, so this was my introduction to the genre.

I love the duality of the mystery and the romance, it gives so much more depth to the story.

I was a little lost in the beginning, because I didn't read the first book. But that wasn't a problem anymore after a while.

Overall, I really liked it and think it's a good book for people who are just discovering historical romance.

Delightful.

Thank you @netgalley for allowing me to read this before its release.

A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal begins with young Millicent Wittenburg scheming to get out of her upcoming nuptials to a very old Viscount Tread. She attempts to gain her freedom by kissing a scarred stranger at her engagement party. But her schemes backfire when the scarred stranger,Major General Drake, takes it as his duty to uphold her honor and offer his own hand in marriage.

I enjoyed reading this regency era romance. I found it to be exciting, spicy and comedic. I enjoyed watching Beau and Millie spar verbally as their relationship grew. I also enjoyed watching Millie and Beau’s past flames getting their comeuppance.

The second in the Queen’s Deadly Damsal’s series.

Check out The Secret Life of a Lady to learn more about deadly damsel Hannah. While she plays a small role in a Lady’s Lesson in Scandal, she is talked about often.

Fantastic! Witty! Charming! Heart string tugs! WhoDonIt...! I can's say enough good things about "A Lady's Lesson in Scandal." The way Ms McGuire tells a story keeps the pages turning until you've finished and want to keep on reading. Can't wait for a next in the series. Free ARC from NetGalley for honest review. <3

Title : “A Lady's Lesson in Scandal”
The Queen's Deadly Damsels Series (Book2)
Author: #DarcyMcGuire
September 15, 2024

Darcy McGuire’s sequel to The Secret Life of a Lady is a thoroughly engaging blend of romance, mystery, and historical charm. Millie Wittenburg, the fiercely independent heroine, faces a difficult situation as she tries to escape an arranged marriage while continuing her secret vigilante work with the Duchess of Dorset. Enter Major General Beauford Drake, a brooding, scarred hero, who feels forced to propose to Millie after a scandal she orchestrates. Their instant chemistry leads to a fast-paced romance, but it’s the ongoing mystery that truly grabs your attention as they work together to take down a human trafficking ring—a plotline that began in the first book and will likely continue throughout the series.

Though there are steamy moments and darker themes like abuse and torture, the book never feels too heavy, balancing these elements with witty dialogue and action-packed scenes. The historical setting adds a layer of charm to what feels like a modern romance, thanks to its strong-willed heroines and intense, brooding heroes. While I loved the mix of excitement, romance, and intrigue, some parts felt rushed. However, that didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment. This book is spicy, fun, and full of suspense, making it a solid four-star read!

NOTE : I believe there are some inconsistencies in how the characters’ titles are addressed. Since Millie is the daughter of a Marquess and Ivy is the daughter of a duke (referred in the 1st book as Lord Cavendale Duke of Landington), they should both be addressed as “Lady,” not “Miss,” which is usually reserved for those of lower ranks or the gentry. Additionally, the Duke of Covington, even in retirement, should be referred to as “Your Grace” or “Duke,” rather than “Lieutenant General,” as his noble title takes precedence. Similarly, the Duchess of Dorset should be addressed as “Her Grace,” not “Lady.” Even Drake, being an Earl, should be addressed by his noble title rather than by his military rank. If anyone could confirm or correct these points, I’d appreciate the clarification!

“I received an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own, and I am sharing this review voluntarily.

Many thanks to the author #DarcyMcGuire, the publisher #BoldwoodBooks , and #NetGalley. #HistoricalFiction #HistoricalRomance #Romance #Regency #RegencyRomance

What I liked about the book – I liked the idea of the main characters working towards the same goal, at first not realizing they were both investigating the same issue then later realizing they are better together than apart. I thought Millie and Beau had good chemistry and I liked that they weren’t your typical hero and heroine—he has some significant scars from his military experience in the Anglo-Afghan war and she is a tall, curvy, tough redhead as opposed to a demure English rose. I liked that they were attracted to the things in one another for which other people found fault.

Some things I struggled with—

I have read a number of historical romances recently where the heroine stages some kind of scandal that would foil any marriage plans thus forcing her to live an ostracized but desired independent life. This theme is a new one for me in historical romance as I was not aware that women had that kind of self-determination during these time periods. Was this a thing during the Victorian or Regency eras? Were society women able to win that kind of independence through scandal? How did they support themselves? If anyone knows or can share some historical resources about this scenario, please share them. I would love to learn more!

Also, were women during the Victorian era kidnapped and sold into prostitution and slavery in France? This issue was also a new one for me. I did some research about prostitution during this era and read that there were thousands (one article said 80,000!) of prostitutes working during the Victorian era, but I did not see anything referencing the kidnapping of English girls and selling them into sex slavery (and by aristocratic men?). I would be interested to learn more about this practice as well, so if you have information on this, please share!

The language in the story is not consistent with your typical historical romance. In many ways, the language made the book feel more contemporary.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

Thank you Boldwood Books & NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC!

I wasn’t as big a fan of this one as I was the first book in the series. I wasn’t really captivated with the couple (I liked them well enough). I also felt like there were WAY too many people that were villains just for the sake of it. Why we didn’t literally beat Patricia up is beyond me because who the f-

ANYWAY that being said, still a solid story & I enjoy Darcy McGuire’s writing. I’ll be reading the next book!

Unfortunately, I didn't love A Lady's Lesson in Scandal.

I think the premise and the main characters were fun and compelling. However, I just didn't gel with the story and writing overall. While I liked the main characters, their pining for each other felt repetitive after a while. I'm not too fussy about modern language in my historical romances but there were a couple of instances here that just took me out of the story.

I think it's still worth trying if the premise sounds like something you might enjoy.

Suspense, drama, romance and gender jokes make this book interesting and entertaining. There’s mention of mental illness, post traumatic war syndrome, abusive parents, among other topics.

Drake Is the Earl of Tetly and a war hero who is physically scarred. He hates social gatherings but nevertheless needs to attend them as an investigator working for the Prime Minister.

Millie, is a member of the ton and is secretly working as an investigator for the Duchess of Dorsett, and Queen Victoria. They are trying to stop a society of men called the Devil’s sons which involves important members of the ton doing sex trafficking with country girls.

When circumstances forced Millie to be compromised by Drake, they will have to work together in order to stop the Devil’s sons, recover their reputations and save their lives at the same time.

Thanks the publisher and the author for this ARC. This is my voluntary and honest review.

I really liked the premise of this, a marriage of convenience between two opposite spy/police sides forced together to solve a common case. I quite enjoyed the book, and I might read the others in the trilogy as well.

However, some characters were very one-dimensional. The stepmother was a typically evil person, with nothing else to her character arch. Same as many other background character who did not get the development they should have. But perhaps is the fact that this book is very short so theres only so much you can include. That ending was very unnecessary, they didnt even talk after such a traumatic effect.

From the moment I opened "A Lady's Lesson in Scandal," the vibrant world entranced me that Darcy McGuire has created, a delightful blend of historical romance, mystery, and a touch of daring. This second instalment in The Queen’s Deadly Damsels series brings us Millicent Whittenburg, a spirited wallflower embroiled in a thrilling plot to escape an unpleasant betrothal while navigating the treacherous waters of society. As I journeyed alongside her, it was impossible not to feel her yearning for freedom and adventure.
Millicent is a refreshing protagonist—an aspiring femme fatale with a clever plan to ruin herself in the eyes of society so she can carry out secret missions for the Queen. Her strategy to seduce Major General Beaufort Drake, a man notorious for his aversion to marriage, is as bold as reckless. I loved the tension that built between them; from their scandalous kiss to the unexpected marriage proposal, the stakes were high, and I was completely invested in their journey.
Major General Drake is an outstanding counterpart to Millie. Initially cold and deeply scarred by his past, he evolves into a steadfast ally as their lives become entwined. The story expertly portrays how their mutual disdain for marriage turns into a rich, complex romance, full of chemistry and understanding. I rooted for them, hoping they could overcome their troubled histories to find happiness together.
The historical backdrop was captivating, and rich in detail that immersed me in the Victorian era. McGuire's blend of thrilling mystery alongside the romantic development is commendable, and I appreciated how elements from the first book in the series continued to weave their way into the plot. Although you could enjoy this book as a standalone, I wholeheartedly recommend starting with the first instalment to fully grasp the nuances and overarching mystery.
While reading, I did notice a few awkward writing moments—some repetitive transitions felt a bit clunky, and the emphasis on how often characters noticed each other’s scents became somewhat excessive. It didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment, but I think it’s worth mentioning for readers who are particularly attentive to writing styles.
In this instalment, Millicent’s journey as a plus-size Amazonian—with her fiery ginger hair—captures hearts and showcases her strength. Her struggles with societal expectations deeply resonated with me, making her relatable and inspiring.
The themes of broken love and the fight against injustice are threaded throughout the book. The combination of personal traumas—Millie’s forced engagement and Drake’s complicated past—brought depth to their romance. The darker undertones, such as human trafficking, felt timely and relevant, adding an edge to the otherwise romantic and spirited tale.
Overall, "A Lady's Lesson in Scandal" is an exhilarating read, one filled with steamy moments and adventurous escapades. McGuire has crafted a story that balances fun with meaningful themes, keeping the pages turning.

The story line is one I would never have dreamed, but loved nonetheless: a Victorian Era historical rom-com where the ladies secretly work for Queen Victoria to take down human trafficking while the men are working for the Prime Minister with the same target. The men trust in the system set for by the Lords and the ladies a more vigilante-like! The lead characters, Millicent and Beau are both "anti-marriage" so you can predict where this is going. The heat between them is steamy and sizzling. Can this headstrong couple survive their chosen career paths and marriage? Can they move past their Victorian England upbringing to forge a path together as partners in all things?

Definitely a fun read, an engaging story line, and colorful characters - worth a read if you like a little sizzle and steam in your books.

While overall a rom-com, Darcy McGuire also touches upon the sensitive topics sexual abuse by a parent, physical and emotional abuse, the realities of war (torturing of prisoners), body shaming, and human trafficking.

4+ stars!

I very much enjoyed reading A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal. This is the second book in The Queen’s Deadly Damsels series by Darcy McGuire.

The story starts out with Millicent at her engagement ball, working on a plan to avoid the engagement forced on her by her horrible stepmother. Millie decides to be caught in a passionate kiss with the formidable Major General Drake. Because Drake wants to avoid marriage as much as Millie, she assumes he will refuse to marry her, leaving Millie free to continue investigating for the Queen.

As one might expect, things don’t go as planned and Millie and Drake find themselves approaching marriage. I really enjoyed the story and characters. I liked both the romance story and the mystery.

Part of the mystery carries over from the first book in the series and I expect this will continue throughout the series. However, a satisfying portion of the mystery is wrapped up in this book. One could read this book on its own and still enjoy it, but I would recommend reading book one first (which I also really enjoyed).

I’m not usually one to be bothered by the technical side of writing, but there were a few times when I found myself noticing some awkward moments, such as some repetitive chapter transitions and the large number of times (in my opinion) that both FMC and MMC noticed the smell of the other.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next “Deadly Damsel”!

Thanks for Boldwood Books for making this book available for review on NetGalley.

At the start of this book I honestly wasn’t feeling it. I thought the beginning was rushed and I didn’t see any redeeming traits the characters. By the end I enjoyed my read. It felt very fast pace and it was just fun. The romance wasn’t built up as much but I didn’t realize this was a sequel so I wonder if I am missing context. From just stumbling on to this ARC I did have fun reading.

I really enjoyed this novel. It was easy to follow, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. I also loved the place settings in the book. A enjoyable read that I would recommend to other people.

A lady's lesson in Scandal - Swoony Spicy Victorian Spy series

Darcy McGuire kicks off another tale from her 'Lady' series, following the proteges of Lady Phillippa, Lady Winterbourne, under the aegis of Queen Victoria, herself - a sort of Queen's Lady, if you please. Think Bridgerton meets Charlies Angels - these sparkling, intelligent unconventional heroines, stifled by rigid patriarchal rules, train in hand to hand combat, weaponry and self defense - and why you ask... Why, all in an attempt to bring justice to the scoundrels' in the House of Lords, who are often let off with by the peerage with slaps on their wrists.

They are often abetted by their counterparts - the dashing heroes, of course, under the Prime Minister, hunting the same villains! How these two factums clash, sizzle and burn forms the basis of the novel. Add in dimensions of equality, crimes against voiceless victims and a brace of adventure, horse riding and a lot of interspersed spicy moments make this a fascinating read.

This book in particular deals with Mellie - our ginger haired, plus size Amazonian or Valkyrie, who captures the heart and soul of wounded war veteran, Beaufort Drake. Both Mellie and Drake have a broken history in love - Mellie's reputation has been sullied due to her infatuation with her childhood friend St George, and is being forced into a marriage with her father's friends, at the insistence of her step mother. While Drake has returned home after years of torture and scarring to find his fiance married to his brother. Add in some human trafficking, beauty and the beast vibes, this makes an excellent read for any Victorian fan, albeit some of the swearing may be more modern, considering the period in question. This minor gripe aside, this is a fats paced, easy adventure mystery with oodles of spice!

This book was BRILLIANT. A perfect mix of historical romance but with underlying criminal activity so there’s always something to raise your heart rate- impending doom or a raunchy love scene!
I loved the characters, Millicent was so likeable and Drake was just as appealing. Every character you came across, from Billy to Phillipa to Franklin, they were all authentic and believable and contributed to a truly great story. I can’t wait for the next one!