4.5/5 stars
2/5 spice

I love a good historical romance with a bit of mystery in the mix. I stayed up late with this one to see what would happen next.

Tropes:
Governess/Spy FMC
Detective MMC
Class differences
Secret identity
Secret relationship
Murder mystery
He falls first
Multiple POV

This was my first book from this author, so I wasn't sure how much I'd like their writing style. Suffice it to say I loved it. I loved the banter and tension between Emily and Zach from the very beginning. She is such a firecracker, and he was so enthralled by her. Everything she thought he'd dislike about her, he loved. It was really sweet.

As far as the murder mystery... I was still guessing right up until the perpetrator was revealed. I love it when I can be surprised. I think the author really had me distracted with the romance enough not to look into the details too closely... but it was fun to see how everything unfolded, and I'm excited to read more from this series. A secret organization of governess spies? Count me in!

Thank you to Netgalley and Forever/Grand Central Publishing for the ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and offered voluntarily.

I think many of us can say Bridgerton is the reason we started reading historical romances, whether we first discovered the series twenty years ago or five or maybe even just last week. I know I didn’t read much before I “met” the family but, since then, I’ve tried out a number of series to see if I could find another that intrigued me as much, or more. I’ve found a few gems so I was happy to try Never Blow a Kiss, the first book in Lindsay Lovise’s new series Secret Society of Governess Spies.

Here’s the book’s description:
The utterly charming Emily Leverton has a dark past and is determined to leave it behind in her respectable new role as a governess. But when she is recruited by a secret network of governesses who spy on the ton, it may just be a way to redeem the dark secrets of her past.
Straddling the worlds of the ton and the working class, as an ex-solider turned railroad magnate, Zach hunts killers for the Metropolitan Police by day and dutifully attends balls at night. In neither world has he met a woman with the brazenness to mock him. So when a saucy governess blows him a kiss he is determined to catch her, never expecting that when he does he will find an intelligent, quirky woman hiding more than her true name. As Zach peels back the layers of Emily’s lies, he falls for the street-wise woman who handles a dagger like a pro and kisses like a mistress. But when his affair with Emily intertwines with his hunt for a killer, he discovers Emily is hiding an explosive secret—one that could destroy them both.
I flew through this novel but not necessarily because I was loving it. It was fine - it kept my interest (mostly - I definitely skimmed a little) and I was invested in the characters but it was, well, just fine. The mystery was weak, I have no idea how accurate it was historically, but it was the romance that kept me coming back to the story. We’ll get back to that!
First, the mystery. I like when historical romances have an element of crime and intrigue because it usually means the female characters are no simpering heroines. I also just like a good mystery. This…was not a good mystery. I don’t know if I just stopped paying attention to the nuances (if there were any) but I feel like there were a few holes in the mystery and the reveal of the serial killer. Justice was served but my modern sensibilities may have expected a different wrap up to the mystery.


I really did love the characters though. Even when I thought they were being boneheaded (we’ve all felt that about romance leads, have we not?). I respected that Emily wanted to keep some things close to her chest though I felt her Big Secret took too long to be revealed. I can see that Lovise was going for shock value but it was a bit lost on me as I was way over it by the time it came around for the Third Act Breakup. That frustration aside, I respected Emily and how she had been able to get herself out of a hellish situation. I loved her for many of the same reasons Zach did - she was smart and feisty. Zach had a rough childhood as well and now his vast fortune meant the ton couldn’t ignore him (but they’d ignore his background, of course). I liked that you could tell he wasn’t letting his obscene amount of money go to his head and he tried to keep busy by helping out with the newly formed police force.

Now, the romance! Because I cared about the couple as people, it was so easy to become invested in their relationship. Considering Zach had to do a lot of encouraging and persuading to convince Emily that sex could, in fact, be pleasurable for both parties, this book was steamier than I expected. It was sexy without being over the top with a few scenes that would have ladies of the ton fluttering their fans and fainting dead away. Zach was not going to push Emily at all and he wasn’t going to do a thing without her explicit consent and Emily could tell she’d be safe to explore the “tingly” feelings with him. And that mutual respect made things a hell of a lot sexier.

Never Blow a Kiss was Lindsay Lovise’s first novel and it was a fine first book. I’m not entirely sure I’m intrigued enough in the series and her writing to continue but I think historical romance fans might still consider picking this one up. It’s a quick read with characters you’ll love so it might be perfect to curl up with on a chilly winter weekend.

*An egalley of this novel was provided by the publisher, Forever, via NetGalley in exchange for review consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.*

A truly mind-bending mystery and love story rolled into one. Words like unorthodox and unconventional spring to mind when describing Emily Leverton. She is a heroine unlike any I’ve read. Rather than being a society darling, she is a mysterious governess with a backbone of steel and the tenacity to overcome anything. Zachariah Denholm is neither a rake nor a society gent, he lives on the sidelines bordering gentility and the working class while trying to unmask a killer. As a man of wealth, the ton looks past his working class status making him most eligible. When these two come together it is in a clash of attraction and respect. I absolutely adored Zach’s taunting and teasing means of love. Exactly my kind of banter! There was so much to love in this story but the stand out to me that truly showed the subtle humour in their interactions, was the epistolary back and forth. Little notes filled with levity and blooming love. It was delightfully funny. The entire story proves a wonderful mix of levity, love and mystery that keeps you guessing. Wonderfully written and a great introduction to The Secret Society of Governess Spies.

Emily Leverton has worked hard to get as far away as possible from her dark past. She's successfully tricked her way into honest work as a governess when she's approached by The Dove and recruited into a web of governesses that spy on their Ton employers to help make sure they pay for their crimes and are unable to hide behind their money and titles.
Zach is the son of a butcher who earned accolades in the army and then became one of the riches men in England through investments. He's not of the Ton, but his money make him a welcome and coveted addition to their events. He's also tasked with finding the latest serial killer in London, the so-called Evangelist who murders ladies of the night in gruesome ways while leaving no clue behind.
A chance encounter leads Emily and Zach to develop a deep fascination for each other that quickly develops into more once they get to know each other, but things from their past and the dangers of their present will force them to fight for their HEA.

It's an excellent romance that's full of nifty revelations and interesting commentary on class and gender that quickly pulled me in and kept my interest. It's interesting to read a historical where both main characters aren't part of the Ton but so closely associated to it. I found it gave the book an original twist that kept the classic elements I love while adding some originality to it.

Very happy thanks to NetGalley and Forever for the excitingly romantic read!

I genuinely found this book top-level delightful.

The main characters, Emily and Zach, have a lot of chemistry and some really fun banter. Zach has a cute nickname for Emily. He's in it from the beginning. He's a member of the Metropolitan Police in London, and she's a governess who is hiding the fact that she's a spy with a hidden past. Mostly, they are just really adorable together mishap after mishap. Emily is also reeling from a very bad marriage to a man she calls "The Pig," so Zach is a chance for her to realize that both women and men can be physically fulfilled together.

Did I need the mystery of Emily's past, what she kept calling her "Big Secret"? No. Did I really care about the mystery of who was killing all the people? Not really. Both things helped the plot move along, I suppose, but really I was in it for the leads. The way they helped each other, and supported each other with words and actions, was the best part. There are some lovely and hilarious letters between them that help establish their relationship as one of minds, hearts, and bodies.

If you're looking for some fun Romance with a fast pace, I highly recommend this one! Can't wait for the next in the series!

Thank you NetGalley for the digital ARC of this book.

I really enjoyed this book! It's a really good mix of romance and mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and can't wait for more of!

I absolutely loved both Zach and Emily and thought their banter was really funny and engaging. I think the alternating POVs really added to the story. I really like historicals where the main characters are not members of the nobility so this really worked for me, with Zach being a detective and Emily being a governess. I really liked their relationship, and though I don't always love when a character is keeping secrets from the other, I think this makes a lot of sense in the context of this book and Emily's past.

I was totally surprised by the reveal of the villain, though to be honest I rarely guess that sort of thing.

Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Emily is running from her past. She has managed to work her way up from the slums to a respectable position of governess and it trying to leave the darkness behind her. When she gets recruited by a secret network of governess spies to help solve a string of murders, she feels this is her opportunity for redemption. She quickly becomes entangled with the handsome, funny and sharp witted detective, Zach and the chemistry is instant. Will her past catch up to her and ruin everything?

THIS BOOK HAD IT ALL. This was a debut for Lindsay Lovise and I immediately preordered her next book coming out this fall. Her writing is so good, the characters are incredible and funny, the chemistry and passion is hottttttt and the story so fast paced. I couldn’t put it down! So progressive for a historical romance and tackles some of the stickier topics of inequality of women and prostitution. Lindsay made me an immediate lifelong fan with this one 🫶🏼

It’s hard to find be historical authors that work for me. However, I love a mysterious female figure who offers other debates a way out. I also love a constable who is also wealthy, a la Miss scarlet & the Duke.
This book was a lot of fun while also being serious and interesting.
Our heroine had a past with a capital P. Our hero has privilege with a capital P. Their interactions were fantastic. And it’s sexy too.

great pacing! The author keeps the story moving along nicely. She also balances the different plots very smoothly!

I have a list of suspects! Great pacing and intrigue Lovise!
Such a great story! I do have to say I think "too much" was going on... and at the 70/ 80 % mark it seemed that too many subplots were waying the story down... However, great pacing, fun story... and I am awaiting the second book! Lately the books I have read have not had me this excited to know what happens next!
The only reason that I didnt give it a higher rating is bc I am not a fan of instant lust and thought too many subplots... but really it's splitting hairs. It's been so long since I have laughed-out- loud during a book.
Thank you Netgally for the audio and ebook. i was able to go back and forth ane read and listen. Narrators were excellent and true to the story.
These opinions are my own.

dnf @20%

The premise was good but I wasn't a fan of the dialogue. I also wasn't a fan of how sex workers were addressed. I understand its that time period, but I have read books of that period that address this issue in a much better way.

Really bummed as I was excited for this one.

Pub Date: 1/23

This eARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

I am always looking for writers similar to Manda Collin’s and I found it with Lindsay’s work! I love the spy/romance genre and this one it the mark! Great character development and Lindsay’’s writing really keep me turning the page. I can’t wait for more from this author!

A perfectly delightful debut novel!

I'm so glad I took a chance on this new author! This book was a joy to read, set at the beginning of the Victorian era, pairing a governess with a sketchy background and a butcher's son who made it big in railroad investments. Zach and Emily seem like an unlikely match at first, but it soon becomes clear they're perfect for each other. If only Emily can get past her Big Secret.

I adored their witty banter, their adorable notes back and forth, and especially his irreverent nickname for her, which calls to mind her very first fib to him, the first of many such attempts to divert his attention from her covert activities. Of course this only increases his attraction to her and his devotion to her was very charming throughout the story. The scene with the cupcake dress was quite literally to die for!

There's an underlying mystery that lends a bit of suspense and intrigue, one that is satisfactorily resolved by the end of the book. We also have a bit of a teaser for the next book, as the mysterious leader of the society of governess spies takes note of a new case that lands on her desk.

The writing is top-notch, the characters are well developed and irresistible, and the HEA was everything I'd hoped for. I heartily recommend this book for anyone who loves historical romances with a bit of suspense. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

Never Blow a Kiss by Lindsay Lovise
Secret Society of Governess Spies series #1. Historical romantic suspense. Alternating POV between the hero and heroine.
Emily Leverton has a dark and difficult history but she is determined to make a better life for herself. In an honest trade or profession. But while that may be her preference, there are others that won’t allow her to “better” herself more than they think is due to them.
Ex-soldier Zach helps the Metropolitan Police investigating crimes. He has access to the better drawing rooms as a rich railroad magnate. People love to share their secrets. When a saucy woman blows him a kiss as he’s being sought by a matchmaking mama, Zack follows Emily. He’s soon fascinated by her unique attitude and outlook and falls for the governess but secrets may cause problems

🎧 I alternated between an ebook copy and an audiobook reading this. The audiobook is narrated by Ella Lynch and Rupert Channing. Both gave a marvelous performance. The two narrators made it easy to track whose POV the chapter was for while the ebook was not labeled. The full text is in 3rd person so the audio actually did a better job in that respect. Both performed with great diction, and emotions. The surprise, and anger and frustration were so well done, I don’t think I would have read it with the same passion. The ebook was a smidge better for following or backtracking on the surprising twists that kept occurring!

I’m starting to enjoy historical romance much more lately with these unique and non traditional characters. Emily is not just a governess but has a lot of rich history woven into the story. She’s a survivor. I look forward to more of this series to see what’s next.

I received a copy of this from NetGalley and Hachette Audio.

Never Blow a Kiss is a fast-paced, swoon worthy regency romance. This novel kicks-off a new series called the Secret Society of Governess Spies. This historical regency read incorporates a bit of mystery into its love story.

Emily is a governess with a lurid, secret past. She's been recruited into a spy network managed by a mysterious women known as The Dove. Her duties are to seek out secrets in her current role as it relates to local murders of women. Zach, the leading detective in the investigation, gets blown a kiss by Emily. He's instantly smitten.

Unbeknownst to them, they are working the same crime. They soon find themselves in coincidental situations, and mutually precarious moments of pleasure. This multi-layered story is fun, and their insta-love is wildly believable.

Can't wait for the next installment with the governess of spies!

Thank you, Forever (Grand Central Publishing).

Overall I really loved this book. It was a lot of fun to read. I loved the dynamic between Zach, a railroad billionaire kind of who works as a cop, and Emily, who is a member of the secret society of governess spies. I really enjoyed learning more about Emily and why she acts the way she does. She definitely is a very fiery heroine who does not conform to the society standards of the time. I will say if you are more of a stickler for historical accuracy in your historicals, this is not going to be one you'd like as much. I don't really mind as much if the vibe is right. I thought the mysteries were interesting and that there were some twists I was not expecting. I really liked that we got some introduction of Frankie, another governess who loves patterns and math and I think will be our next heroine. I'm really excited to read her book either way.
Honestly, my favorite part was the romance dynamic between Zach and Emily. They are always checking in with each other. I love how snarky they are with each other. I love snarky-snarky dynamics and sarcasm between the couple. It's so much fun. They definitely get heated a little early into the book, but I didn't mind all that much because it was in steps, which will make more sense if you decide to read the book. I also like how much they communicate with each other. It is nice to have conflict between them that isn't the normal way where they just don't talk to each other. This is kind of a big deal and I think the way it resolved made sense based on their other discussions and interactions.
There are some darker themes running the background of the story involving a serial killer around town and Emily's darker past. But I think that the author was able to balance these different threads in a way that made sense and didn't feel like two entirely separate things happening.
I highly recommend this book if you are looking for a sexy, romantic historical romance with a side of investigation.

Unique historical mystery/romance

I very much enjoyed reading "Never Blow a Kiss" and read it over about 24 hours! It has a feisty, unusual heroine and a dashing hero, both of which have Pasts (with a capital P). You won't want to miss this fresh new series with an unusual premise of governess spies who want equal justice for the "ton" and the lower classes.

Thank you to the publisher who lent me an e-arc via Netgalley. This review is optional and my own opinion. I would give this book 6 stars if I could!

4.5 enthusiastic stars!

Emily Leverton is more than just a governess. She's also a spy...who happens to have a dark past. She's skilled and street smart, but her instincts as a spy could use some work. Case in point: reveling in the discomfort she witnesses in a handsome man being accosted by the eligible women of the ton, she decides to blow him a kiss. This begins Zach's fascination with Emily, despite her efforts to throw him off the scent (of her). He's not easily thwarted, however. A former solider and current detective, he's often one step ahead of her. Their friendship turns into more as they navigate the many twists and turns of this expertly-crafted mystery. They're both born survivors, but can their relationship survive her Big Secret?

I had the BEST time with this book! Emily is easy to love. She's got a heart of gold, and wants to do well, despite the fact that she makes many a misstep in this novel. Her gaffs provide interesting plot twists and make her seem more human, so I was still here for it. There were numerous angels being worked in this story, all interesting without bloating the text. I was impressed to see that the author bucked the typical formula for an historical romance, giving us scenes from different perspectives, layering the mystery, motives, and plot.

I loved the chemistry and passion between Zach and Emily. I laughed out loud so many times as well! The storyline was very engaging. This is the first book in the Secret Society of Governess Spies, as well as Lovise's first widely published novel, and you better believe I'm going to be more than ready for the next book in the series! Well done!!!

Trigger warnings: fighting, stabbing, death/murder, mentions of serial killers and the way they mutilated their victims (before story began), bullying, domestic abuse, sexual assault (off page), child neglect (off page)

I'd like to thank Forever, Grand Central Publishing, and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Never Blow a Kiss is the exact historical romance I love. It's a mix of romance with mystery and the heroine doesn't need the man in her life. She chooses to have him rather than need him out of societal necessity. Set against a backdrop that includes a killer who's going after sex workers (reminding me of Jack the Ripper), Emily is a governess who's doing more than watching after the children. Emily is also gathering intel from high society to give to The Dove, the leader of the Secret Society of Governess Spies, looking for a killer in their mist. At a ball, Emily makes the mistake of blowing a kiss to Zach, who works with the police, and he can't get her out of his mind. Zach and Emily end up working together to find the killer while Zach also pursues her heart.

Never Blow a Kiss is the debut novel from Lindsay Lovise and the first book in a series. I can't wait to read more from Lovise and go back into this series in the future. Earlier this year I talked about how I wanted more mysteries with romance. Luckily I found Never Blow a Kiss right after making that statement and my wish was made.

Thank you to Forever and Netgalley for a copy for review consideration.

What a fun read! Such a unique idea, having governesses hired to spy on their employers and friends and reporting back to the agency… sort of a regency era MI-6 network long before women were allowed to do anything of the sort.

Our excellent female character was extremely strong with her terrible background, but she’s built herself up and made her way in the world. She’s found her way into this brilliant network and fallen in with an inspector searching for a serial killer of “ladies of the night.” They seem to be somehow on the track of the same person and while Emily has to hide her past, Zach is digging deeper and is closer to finding out everything that could ruin her - if someone else doesn’t get her first.

So interesting and nothing like I expected going in - it was super exciting, a mystery thriller combined with a steamy regency romance and I loved it so much more than I thought I would! I appreciated the widget from Forever and can’t wait for Lovise’s next release… highly recommend it!

I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and this is my honest feedback.

Never Blow a Kiss is a steamy historical romance featuring two strong main characters. Emily is resilient with a shady past. Zach has a strong sense of justice and is determined to solve his case as a detective with the Metropolitan Police.

Together they have great chemistry. I loved their banter, especially the notes they sent back and forth. The mystery element to the story also kept me turning pages. I read this novel in a day and really enjoyed it. Looking forward to the next in the series. Thank you to the publisher for my e-copy of this book.