Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an arc of this book. I thought it was a fun ready. It's the perfect regency romance, a bit predictable but sometimes you need an easy comfort read. While this is the second in a series you can read as a standalone (I had not read the first one). Enjoy!

I am still debating how I felt about this one. On the one hand, the sentence level writing is REALLY strong and the characters are fully realized. The plot is unusual in that it almost feels like two novels in one - the first half is set up like a second chance romance in the spirit of Jane Austen's Persuasion, but the second half takes a sharp turn into a love triangle as slowly both Eliza and the reader shift our alliance to a difference love interest. This is where this novel kind of lost me. By making what had been a secondary love interest the primary one so late in the novel, I think we lost some of the tension building and investment that I had placed in the other character and instead of it feeling like a conflict between two interesting characters, it felt like the rug was being pulled out from under me. Perhaps if this had been dual POV and we'd known who to root for more this would have worked better?

I do think that Eliza's blossoming as she experiences true freedom for the first time is really well done, and I liked the way Melville's reputation and the racism of the period were woven into the story without making it the center of the story. All told I...think I liked this? I do think it would make for a great book club discussion and it is very low steam/spice (some kissing, not much more) if that's more your vibe.

3.5 stars, rounded down.

A fun Regency Romance read. Be aware, it's a bit slow at the beginning, but it does pick up and is worth the wait. It's the second in a series but stands on it's own very well, don't feel like you need to read the first to get this one (though I will say, the first was a bit better).

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book has been on my Netgalley for a bit and I haven’t picked it up. I haven’t been into romance in a minute, so I’m not the right person to review it anymore.

This book was a delight. It's the perfect regency romance for when you need a predictable, comfort read. While this is the second in a series, it stands on its own and is able to be read without reading the first title.

Loved the first book and this one didn't disappoint!

Full review and links to social will be posted as soon as possible.

I'd like to thank the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.

Loved this historical romance so much. Readers who love Mandi Collins would love this author as well!

Sophie Irwin’s A Lady’s Guide to Scandal is a delightful romp through the Regency era. It offers readers a charming blend of romance, wit, and social intrigue. With a lively heroine at its center and a plot brimming with scandalous encounters and daring decisions, this book is an absolute treat for historical romance fans.

The story follows Miss Eliza Balfour, a strong-willed and intelligent woman determined to navigate society's rigid expectations on her terms. Irwin crafts her as a heroine who is both relatable and inspiring—torn between following her heart and adhering to the rules of propriety. Her journey of self-discovery is filled with moments of empowerment and clever defiance, making her a character to root for.

What sets A Lady’s Guide to Scandal apart is its sparkling dialogue and fast-paced plot. Irwin has a knack for creating humorous and engaging interactions between characters, particularly in the flirtatious exchanges that lead to undeniable chemistry between the protagonist and her love interest(s). The banter feels fresh, with just enough tension to keep readers invested.

The novel also shines in its portrayal of Regency society. Irwin vividly brings to life the balls, drawing rooms, and strict social hierarchies of the period, all while imbuing the story with a modern sensibility. This balance between historical accuracy and contemporary relevance gives the book an enjoyable edge, allowing it to feel both timeless and timely.

However, while the story is entertaining and filled with charm, there are a few moments where the plot feels somewhat predictable, particularly in its romantic developments. Some readers may find the resolution a bit too tidy, lacking the emotional complexity seen in other parts of the book. These minor issues don’t detract much from the overall experience.

In conclusion, A Lady’s Guide to Scandal is a thoroughly enjoyable read, offering just the right mix of romance, humor, and historical intrigue. Irwin’s sharp writing and engaging characters make this novel a must-read for anyone who loves a good Regency romance with a modern twist. Though it may not break new ground in the genre, it delivers exactly what it promises—an utterly charming and escapist tale that’s hard to put down.

Thank you, Netgalley and PENGUIN GROUP Penguin Books | Penguin Books, for the free advanced copy for my honest review!

5⭐️

I loved the first book in this series, and I love this one even more. I found myself *squealing* in excitement and falling in love right along with Eliza. It’s such a good slow burn, and the secondary romance is just as satisfying as the primary romance. This book is dramatic, funny, romantic, and so so much fun.

Not as delectable as A Lady's Guide to Fortune Hunting, but still very readable. Love a romp in the Regency!

This book! I loved the first and couldn’t wait to read the second! I’m so happy NetGalley gave me that chance with the ARC! Thank you NetGalley!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy of A Lady's Guide to Scandal by Sophie Irwin in exchange for my honest review and opinion. I read the debut book by Sophie Irwin and was beyond excited to be given the opportunity to read this before all my friends and family. I can say, I liked it but didn't love it. Felt it was a bit slow at times and didn't truly hold my interest. I would read a few pages and then put it down as I just wasn't invested. I'm hoping to read more by this author in the future.

While I found this book to be overall enjoyable, I'm not a huge fan of love triangles. Definitely scratches that "I just watched Bridgerton and I want to get into the regency era" itch.

The book started off rather slow and was hard to get hooked, but I ending up liking the ending. However, I would recommend the first book in this series over the second.

The novel weaves a delightful narrative that balances humor, romance, and the consequences of Eliza's choices, especially with her late husband's nephew. Irwin's writing captures the essence of a heroine unapologetically shaping her future. A Lady's Guide to Scandal is a captivating historical romance, blending wit and adventure to deliver an engaging and satisfying read for fans of the genre.

I had high hopes but this installment let me down. It was a struggle to get into the story.

The love triangle was such a letdown. It didn't really show us anything new about the MC. One of the love connections is also really weak.

I loved outlander, and i love the royal family so I thought I would enjoy this story., It was definitely a cute and cozy romance and the characters are likeable. I would definitely consider re-reading this book, and reading other books by Sophie!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing this book with me!

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Thank you!

When is the next Sophie Irwin book coming out?! I love the colorful descriptions in this book - - the sky was purpling. Such vivid impressions, along with a lovely storyline.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This was interesting book and I enjoyed it so much. I hope to read more from this author soon.

Thank you to netgalley for give me an opportunity.

Maybe not as perfect as the first one, but still pretty awesome! And here I was thinking that it would be a series about the same protagonist over and over, but NOPE. It’s dope. 🤣💜📚