Enjoyed it: well written, funny, good storytelling
Recommended.Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

Not remembering much but I rated it 4.5 stars so there must be something I liked. My first read by this author.

“A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal” is a deliciously daring ride through ballrooms, battle scars, and barely concealed daggers. Millicent Whittenburg is not your typical Victorian debutante—she’s bold, brilliant, and secretly training to be a royal femme fatale. When she plots her own downfall to escape an unwanted marriage, things spiral gloriously out of control thanks to her chosen target: the brooding, battle-hardened Major General Beaufort Drake.

What starts as a scandal-in-the-making quickly turns into a reluctant marriage filled with tension, heat, and unexpected partnership. Millie and Drake are electric together—sparring one moment, slowly unraveling each other the next. Their chemistry crackles, and their banter is sharp enough to slice through silk.

The real treat here is how the author blends rich historical detail with playful rebellion. The Victorian setting is more than a backdrop—it’s a glittering, rule-bound stage for Millie to set on fire with her unapologetic independence. Add in espionage, secret missions, and a wedding party from hell (or heaven, depending on your taste for mischief), and you've got a romance that’s equal parts scandal, spice, and suspense.

For fans of clever heroines, scarred heroes, and high-stakes flirtation, this one absolutely delivers.

A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal is the second book in The Queen’s Deadly Damsels series by Darcy McGuire. Familiar to us from reading the first book, Millicent Whittenburg is keen to escape an arranged marriage to a wealthy viscount old enough to be her father. Desperate measures are called for, so she contrives to be caught in a compromising position with someone who has even less desire to marry than she does. However, things take a surprising turn and she finds herself at a house party preparing to marry Major General Beaufort Drake, the Earl of Tetly, though she still insists she would be happier alone. Drake is an agent of the Prime Minister on the trail of a group of men responsible for kidnapping and enslaving young women. Millie is pursuing the same goal but part of a group of ladies working for the Queen, who is less inclined to trust the House of Lords to administer justice. Their secret missions align though they don’t know it yet.
The story is told from alternate points of view, giving the reader a rounded picture of what is going on, with the added bonus of learning their inner thoughts. The search for who is behind the sex-trafficking ring takes a bit of a back seat to the growing attraction between Millie and Drake, with her stepmother, Patricia, interfering at every turn. Her behaviour towards Millie was so horrible that she became almost a caricature. While some of what occurs in this lively new series might stretch the bounds of plausibility, it really doesn’t matter. A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal is a witty and enjoyable story set in Victorian England, which might not be completely historically accurate, but I enjoyed every minute, and look forward to reading the next book in the series, The Confessions of a Lady. Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a digital copy to review.

I did not get around to reading this one, I did start it but never continued due to how busy life got, but it does seem to be up my ally and definitely something I'd enjoy reading.

Absolutely loved this, I’ve really enjoyed every book in this series and can’t wait for the next one!

If you like your regency romance with a side of adventure this one’s for you!

A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal was such a fun take on a marriage of convenience, plus, who doesn’t love an independent woman. The romance was excellent, but I would have loved a little bit more espionage.

Thanks NetGalley for the eARC.

Read this as a standalone, but will definitely go back and check out the other books in this series! A fun and unique historical romance with vibrant characters, thought the plot could do with some tightening.
Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.

A wonderful read!
This novel drew me in from the very first page and kept me hooked until the end. The characters were vibrant and relatable, the writing was engaging, and the story had just the right balance of heart and humor. Highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

This book blends romance, intrigue, and adventure with a feisty heroine and brooding nobleman. Elegant writing and strong chemistry drive the story, but pacing lags and predictability occasionally dulls the spark. A thrilling historical setting and covert missions add depth, though it doesn’t match Duran’s finest. Fun and engaging, despite some archetypal plot points, it’s a solid, if not standout, sequel.
Thank you NetGalley for ARC, all opinions are my own.

"A Lady's Lesson in Scandal" ist der zweite Band der Reihe "The Queen's Deadly Damsels" und verbindet geschickt historische Romantik mit Spannung und Abenteuer.

Die Protagonistin Millicent Whittenburg, eine entschlossene junge Frau, die heimlich für Königin Victoria als Ermittlerin arbeitet, versucht, einer ungeliebten Verlobung zu entkommen. Ihr Plan, ihre Ehre zu verlieren, um aus der Gesellschaft zu verschwinden und ihre Missionen fortzusetzen, führt zu unerwarteten Wendungen, insbesondere als sie Major General Beaufort Drake begegnet. ​

Die Chemie zwischen Millicent und Beaufort ist intensiv und entwickelt sich von einer anfänglichen Zweckgemeinschaft zu einer leidenschaftlichen Beziehung. Der Roman bietet eine ausgewogene Mischung aus romantischen und spannungsgeladenen Momenten, wobei Themen wie persönliche Freiheit und gesellschaftliche Erwartungen im viktorianischen England behandelt werden. Allerdings sollten Leser sich bewusst sein, dass der Roman auch schwerwiegende Themen wie Missbrauch und Menschenhandel anspricht. ​

Der flüssige Schreibstil und die detaillierte Charakterentwicklung machen das Buch zu einer fesselnden Lektüre. Obwohl es als Fortsetzung einer Reihe konzipiert ist, kann es problemlos als Einzelband gelesen werden. Für Liebhaber historischer Romantik mit einem Hauch von Spannung ist "A Lady's Lesson in Scandal" definitiv empfehlenswert.

A Lady's Lesson in Scandal by Darcy McGuire is a captivating historical romance that combines tension, wit, and passion. The story follows a strong-willed lady who finds herself caught in a scandal and must navigate society's expectations while grappling with her own desires. McGuire’s writing is engaging and filled with chemistry, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers hooked. The blend of romance, intrigue, and personal growth makes this a delightful read for fans of historical romance with a bit of edge.

Someone said if Bridgerton and Mr & Mrs Smith had a baby it would be this book and it's pretty accurate! It's a fun and easy read with likable characters

Wanted to like this one loved the premise but was a miss for me and a DNF. Would still recommend anyone to give it a try.

This book offers an intriguing mix of rags-to-riches romance and social commentary, with a feisty heroine and a brooding nobleman at its core. The writing is elegant, and the chemistry between the leads is engaging, but the pacing occasionally drags, and some plot developments feel predictable. While the story has its emotional highs, it doesn’t quite reach the depth or intensity of Duran’s best works. A solid read, but not a standout.

Not my normal genre, but I really enjoyed this! Thank you Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the copy!

This book follows Millicent Whittenburg, a clever and resourceful heroine determined to escape her unpleasant betrothal to an older man, Viscount Tread, orchestrated by her wicked stepmother. To reclaim her freedom, Millicent devises a scandalous plan to ruin her reputation, but her life takes an unexpected turn when she encounters Major General Beaufort Drake, a cold and battle-scarred private investigator for the Prime Minister. Their fiery kiss ignites undeniable chemistry, leading to a marriage of convenience that neither anticipated. As they navigate a week-long wedding house party while investigating a dangerous human trafficking scheme, the stakes rise, testing their bond. With a blend of romance, espionage, and intrigue, this novel artfully intertwines passion and mystery against the rich backdrop of Regency England.

While Millicent sets out to trap Drake, the unexpected chemistry between them is super fun. As the reader, I didn’t expect that and neither did the characters! The author did a great job writing steamy romance with a twisty mystery. The book will suck you in and you won’t be able to put it down. Who doesn’t love spicy scenes, with some added knife throwing? The strong-willed female protagonist defies societal norms, and her group of friends add a lot of fun to the story. The novel's humor, emotional depth, and intricate plot ensure that readers experience a rollercoaster of emotions, leaving us anticipating the next installment in this exciting series. I started out by reading book two in this series, but now I am going to go back and read the first and third one.

The chemistry between Millie and Drake is electric. Their banter crackles, their attraction is undeniable, and watching them navigate their reluctant marriage is pure entertainment. McGuire strikes the perfect balance between emotional depth and scorching tension—there’s no shortage of swoon-worthy moments, but the romance feels layered and earned. Millie’s defiance of societal norms makes her an easy protagonist to root for, while Drake’s icy exterior and hidden vulnerabilities make him a perfect match for her fire.

Beyond the romance, the book delivers intrigue, action, and a fast-paced plot that keeps the pages turning. The covert missions, the high-stakes tension, and the historical setting all blend seamlessly, making this feel more than just a love story—it’s a thrilling adventure.

While this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone, though I imagine the full experience would be even richer with the context of the previous book.

I've absolutely loved reading these books, couldn't put them down but really sad knowing I've nearly finished.The author pulls you in so easily and actually feels your living in the story. So great to have such strong heroines. I can't wait for the next book. I can't wait for February i fear it will be along wait.
If you love strong women who know their own minds and are an equal to strong minded men you must read this book. Not a full moment in this book.

A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal delivers a delightful blend of spicy historical romance and thrilling intrigue, continuing the captivating “Deadly Damsels” series. Millicent Whittenburg, a wallflower with a secret life as a Queen’s investigator, seeks to escape an unwanted betrothal by orchestrating her ruin. Her plan hinges on seducing the marriage-averse Major General Beaufort Drake, a scarred warrior and private investigator. However, Millie underestimates Drake’s resolve, and their scandalous encounter leads to an unexpected marriage proposal. The chemistry between Millie and Drake is electric, fueled by witty banter and a shared passion for their covert missions.

Millie’s character shines as a fiercely independent woman defying societal norms. Her determination, wit, and strength make her an inspiring protagonist. General Drake, equally compelling, proves to be a worthy match for Millie, and their relationship develops naturally and authentically. The author effectively weaves in the historical context, showcasing the constraints faced by women in that era while highlighting Millie’s defiance.

The author’s attention to detail, particularly in depicting the characters’ emotional journeys and the intricacies of their covert operations, adds depth to the story. “A Lady’s Lesson in Scandal” is a must-read for fans of spicy historical romance with a touch of intrigue, offering a captivating tale of love, deception, and empowerment.