LADY NOTORIOUS

A female investigator agrees to help a nobleman who fears his
father might have been murdered.

Cassandra Benton is an essential part of her twin brother Charles’ success
as a Bow Street Runner. George, Lord Northbrook, has hired them to help solve a
perplexing mystery. Forty years earlier, George’s father, the Duke of Ardmore,
entered into a financial pact with 10 friends; each member contributed an equal
sum to a pool of investment funds, and the last one alive will inherit the
entire amount. However, three men in the pact have died under suspicious
circumstances in the past year. When Cass’ brother breaks his leg and can no
longer work, Cass feels the weight of responsibility for keeping the family
afloat. Fearing for his father’s life, George agrees that Cass should continue
to work on the case alone. He hatches a plot to pass her off as a cousin,
allowing her entrance to the ton where they can quietly investigate which of
the remaining members might have a motive to commit murder. Romain (Lady
Rogue, 2018, etc.) deftly weaves together the romance and mystery plots in
this pleasing, enjoyable novel. Both characters grapple with dilemmas of family
and identity. George focuses on scientific experiments as a distraction from
his parents’ addictions. Of particular note, Cass’ character arc is carefully
crafted, believable, and wholly feminist. No longer content with a pattern of
“saving” her brother and putting men first, Cass is determined to focus on her
own goals, needs, and happiness. Although they are from different classes,
George can’t help but be attracted to a woman as competent and self-assured as
Cass, but can she keep her newfound independence while entangled in a romantic
relationship with George?

A refreshing historical romance featuring a partnership between
equals.