Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.

This is another addition to the extremely extensive (what are there - 40 stories or so????) Lyon's Den universe, and features a more mature love story that starts with an arrangement with the notorious Black Widow, Mrs. Dove-Lyon.

The story starts in tragedy two years prior as Robert Strathford, the Marquess of Hawke is travelling with his beloved wife, and fellow world adventurer. But a carriage accident literally wrests her out of his arms and makes the marquess a widower. Life does not get easier for him in the ensuing years as it turns out that his man of business has been embezzling from him and other members of the peerage, culminating with the man plundering his account and leaving for the continent before he could be caught. Luckily Robert sill has funds in the household accounts, but before those run out, he must seek a wealthy wife. He has sought out the aid of the Black Widow before, but failed at his previous endeavours to gain himself a rich wife. He does not expect to be so lucky as to marry for love again, but knows that he must fill his coffers soon, if he has any hopes of saving his estates and tenants from impoverishment.

Miss Apollonia Alexander is a spinster who has travelled the world with her father, as he made a fortune in international trade. As she travelled beside him, she learned the trade, and acted as his hostess. But when he suddenly died, he left the business to her cousin, Christopher, despite her extensive knowledge of his business. But she was not left bereft though, as the bulk of his fortune was left to her. Unfortunately, as a lone woman, she has no way of accessing her bank accounts without the guidance of a male relative. Despite being her only male relative, Apollonia does not trust Christopher, nor wishes to wed him. But she is fast running out of ready cash and faces eviction soon if she cannot access her accounts. As she seeks out the aid of Mrs. Dove-Lyons, she catches the eye of the Marquess, in an interestingly awkward meet cute.

A second chance at love, arranged marriage/marriage of convenience with more mature characters. There is the added storyline of embezzlement/theft as well, and a rather spicy, cheeky secondary love story as well. The timeline is fast paced, and the story was fun and fast paced as well.

3.75 stars out of 5

A truly enjoyable read! Loved the nod to the Greeks with Apollonia and Hawke. So much occurs in this quick read that you don't want to put it down. I loved that she is 34 and he is 45. Their age and maturity added so much to the story!

An older couple story.
Widowed Marquess, Robert Strathford, needs to marry a fortune to replenish the funds stolen by his corrupt estate manager. Having lost out twice in a game of chance to win a bride at the Lyon’s Den he feels that he shouldn’t have to be subject to such games on his third attempt (and third payment). Bessie Dove Lyon, renowned matchmaker, is not sure how easy it will be to make a match, when in walks Apollonia Alexander… An easy, light read.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I so love the Lyon’s Den stories and this one is rather special. This is for those of us who are more mature and it was adorable to read. Robert is in need of funds , but not from his own hand. Apolliana is rich beyond her wildest dreams, but because she is a woman, she can’t get her hands on it. Enter Mrs. Dove-LYon, who can do miracles. I adored their meet-cute and watching their whirlwind romance was so fun. The story did seem to drag at first, but quickly got exciting after they met. Seeing the Butler and Ladies maid’s antics were delightful and witty. The villain(s) in this story get their due, especially the epilogue one! This is a well crafted, with believable characters and swoon-worthy romance. (4 stars for the use of the f-bomb- that had NO business being used where it was.-REALLY good way to ruin the story for me)

I received this story for free and these are my own views.

Mutton Chops, Embezzlement, Spectacular Love Story:
This author has written one of the best Lyon series stories I have read in quite some time.
The story follows two wonderfully intriguing characters who are new clients of The Black Widow. She sees that they are perfect for each other so she quickly delves into her matchmaking process at full speed.
The story is more involved than just a love match.
The couple each have deceit, and embezzlement to conquer and each must retrieve their fortunes to make this a HEA story.
Mrs. Dove Lyons loyal crew came to their rescue which was so rewarding to finish off this wonderful story.
The author that is new to me did have me wondering if the Lyons Den needed to be refurbished. It's certainly seen its share of let's just say everything?
All I can say this is a wonderful story I could not stop reading. It is well written and very interesting. Never a dull moment.
Mature Rating💋💋+

Arthur is an absolutely witty, strong and intelligent character. The writer has done justice by adding a lot of drama, adventures and strong characters.

The writing style is immaculate and makes you want to read and read.

The book is very good and keeps you hooked and entertained.

Highly recommended

A quick and engaging read, this book offers a fast-paced adventure that provides a delightful escape from reality.

Thank you NetGalley for a great read. Apollonia has just lost her father and she cannot get her money from the bank on her own. She goes to the Lon's Den to see about getting a husband. The Marques of Hawk has gone at the same time to see Bessie about wanting a wife. He is lonesome though needs one with money to take care of his crops the next year. Her cousin wants her to marry him to have the money to take care of the business he was left. Apollonia and Hawk have fallen in love as soon as they meet,