How to Fall for a Scoundrel by Kate Bateman
How to Fall for a Scoundrel by Kate Bateman, book two in Her Majesty’s
Rebels series, is a wonderful, steamy, fun and romantic story. Tropes included:
mysterious backstory, bluestocking and wallflower heroine, scoundrel hero, secret
identity, undercover work, and solving a mystery. Eleanor Law is one of
the three co-founders of the private investigative agency King and Co., fronted
by the mysterious and elusive Charles King. When a strange man steals a kiss from
Ellie under the mistletoe and then purports himself to be Charles King in front
of a prospective client, Eleanor must figure out who is really is and not just
the many characters he portrays. When a potential client insists he must
meet Mr. King before he will use their services. Ellie is prepared to send him
on his way when Harry steps in and introduces himself as the elusive Mr. King,
explaining he doesn’t want anyone to know who he truly is. It works, but Ellie
is furious. Harry shocks her by telling her he knows Mr. King is a fictitious
character, but as a “retired” thief, he wants to work with them. On repeated
occasions, he proves himself worthy of the job.
Harry is charming and a shameless flirt, but the best
thing about him is the respect he has for Ellie and her abilities to solve a
case. Eventually, she finds him irresistible, despite knowing he is hiding
something in his past. He says he won’t fall in love with her, but it’s clear
he has. Meanwhile, despite her own efforts, she has fallen in love with him.
When his secret is revealed, Ellie assumes everything is over between them now.
But Harry has another surprise up his sleeve.
I enjoyed the banter between Harry and Ellie, and
also between the two of them and Ellie’s friends, Tess and Daisy. The
adventures Harry and Ellie go on to solve crimes are exciting and fun. It
becomes clear that they are perfect for one another. While Harry has to give up
a life of crime, his change is insignificant compared to Ellie’s
transformation. I can’t wait for Daisy’s story.
#NetGalley #StMartinsPress
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