I thought this book was a sweet revisit. The chemistry was delightful and it was a nice continuation to the overall story ARC with intertwining characters and settings.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher Forever and author for letting me review this E-Arc for an honest review!

It's a sweet romance! There is not that much spicy bits in it if that is what you are looking for! It is also a slow burn.

Yes I do read these kinds of books because it's important to have a well rounded reading spectrum of your liking.

I enjoyed the suspense of finding out what had happened! It had me thinking of who could be the suspect. I think I figured it out maybe closer towards the end of the story. When Adrian and Jane join together to figure out the mystery, it was fun and cute because you could see and feel the tension between them regarding their feelings for each other along with trying to solve the case. What exactly happened though? I"m not spilling the tea, you must pick this book to find out.

I love how Jane is independent and thinks for herself. She shows this by being a governess in the beginning along with what happens in the story. She just knows how to handle situations! She's just awesome character. Her connection Adrian is so real. I love how they do talk of things which happens further in the story which makes their relationship real. It was real talk with connection and kindness.

Adrian was an interesting character. I wish there a little more to him but I like his kindness and openness to Jane.

It was a quick and sweet read!
A world of love and suspense!
Cute moments!

I really enjoyed the previous book in this serious and was looking forward to the next novel. I actually enjoyed this even more than A Spinster's Guide to Danger and Dukes! These books are so fun and very easy reads. Two of my east favorite genres are mystery and historical fiction. This series combined those two things, and yet I still really enjoy them! I have my suspicions on who may be the MC in the next book, but I guess only time will tell!

A Governess's Guide to Passion and Peril is the 4th book in a series of interconnected stories. Each book focuses on a different couple and could be read on its own, but previous characters do appear and past events are also referenced. I still have yet to read the first two books in the series, but had no problems following this book or its predecessor. I do plan to go back and read the first two soon though!

Manda Collins has hit her stride! This is just as fun as the cover promises. Even more so, in fact, because the romance to intrigue ratio is perfect to keep it lighthearted and fun. Though there are a lot of characters to keep track of, the pace is kept steady, and there are enough question marks and reveals as they investigate to keep me invested. The finale was still a little underwhelming, as has been the case for the whole series, but it at least made sense that it wasn't a drawn-out affair in this installment.

I really enjoyed Jane and Adrian as characters and their romance was super cute- not insta-love, and much slower burn than in past books. They're both super-protective, take-charge types, and seeing them argue about who was going to keep who safe was extremely hilarious. (Also that Adrian was so into her against his will). I'm SO glad Collins continued in the vein she discovered with Joshua and Poppy, and that they featured in this one as well because of their relationship with Adrian.

Though it had its issues with a little bit of info-dumping and characters that could have been more fleshed out, this book was still like a warm hug from a good friend, and it totally lived up to that cheerful cover. This will go on my comfort reads shelf for whenever I need a lighthearted romance with some action and adventure.

Retail reviews live on release date.

A Governess’s Guide to Passion and Peril is the fourth novel in the Ladies Most Scandalous series. I’ve enjoyed the first three couples in their stories (A Lady’s Guide to Mischief and Mayhem, An Heiress’s Guide to Deception and Desire, and A Spinster’s Guide to Danger and Dukes). Each novel in the series follows a new couple and I enjoy how they can be read as standalones, but still have some hints of the other novels for those that read the entire series. This story follows Jane Halliwell and Lord Adrian Fielding, who appeared in the last novel, but there wasn’t a deep dive into their characters and story.

When they were younger, Jane had a crush on Adrian, but had a falling out when she believed Adrian wasn’t there for her family after her father passed away. As an adult Jane is now working as a governess and is reunited with Adrian at a house party. When her employer is found dead, an investigation takes place to solve the mystery. The two characters begin their adult journey with each other having a misunderstanding from their youth. The two continue to have differences throughout the story that they need to work through along with the mystery to solve. In the story Jane wants to be a detective novel writer and I wish that Collins explored this subplot a lot more. It seemed that it was mentioned then forgotten before being mentioned again rather than it plays a larger role.

The pacing of the story was good as there was an interesting set up where the fallout occurred and then the two characters came back together. The balance between the mystery and romance was a little off at times as I wanted a little more focus on the romance. Both were still well done, and I think they were interesting. While I do not think this is my favorite novel of the series, I did still enjoy it. I think Collins has a talent for writing and I have enjoyed all four novels in the series. Overall, I can’t wait to check out more from Collins in the future.

**I give a special thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, Forever, for the opportunity to read this entertaining novel. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Manda Collins for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Governess's Guide to Passion and Peril coming out March 26, 2024. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I really enjoy this series. I love that each book focuses on a different heroine. I really enjoyed Jane’s character. There were a couple things I didn’t quite agree with. The beginning was a little hard to get into and she took some time to warm up to Adrian. but overall I thought she was a strong heroine who got things done. I really enjoy governess stories. I enjoyed the mystery part of the plot. I love Adrian‘s character. He seemed to be very dashing and considerate of Jane’s feelings. I think they worked well together, trying to solve the mystery. Overall, I loved it!

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance!

Another fun book from Manda Collins! This book is the perfect cozy murder mystery with some romance mixed in. It was so fun to get to see the characters from the previous books as supporting cast members. This one didn't have quite as many twists and turns as some of the previous books in the series but the characters were so likeable I was happy they didn't have to suffer too many twists of fate!

This book is perfect for someone looking for a quick read that likes a cozy vibe, historical fiction, and a sweet love story!

Suspenseful, enticing, and adventurous!

A Governess’s Guide to Passion and Peril is an engaging, amusing tale set in London during 1869 that features Jane Halliwell, a clever young woman who, after losing her father and having to become a governess to the daughter of Viscount and Lady Gilford, finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery with her teenage crush, Lord Adrian Fielding, when it quickly becomes apparent that these murders and perhaps even a few more may not be as random as they first appeared and may actually be tied to their positions as agents for the Foreign Office.

The prose is authentic and mischievous. The characters are confident, daring, and endearing. And the plot is a compelling blend of mystique, attraction, amateur sleuthing, desire, tricky situations, danger, and titillating romance.

Overall, A Governess’s Guide to Passion and Peril is another passionate, spicy, immersive page-turner by Collins that left me entertained, satisfied and eager to read whatever the Ladies Most Scandalous manage to get mixed up in next.

After her father’s death, governess Jane becomes embroiled in investigating her employer’s murder alongside Lord Adrian—the man she once loved. As they hunt the killer, Jane’s wit and charm rekindle their connection. But with danger lurking, will their second chance at love survive?

This book has compelling characters, a page-turning plot, and strong romantic tension. Jane is a refreshingly strong and intelligent heroine. Despite the hardships she’s faced, she remains witty and resilient. Her verbal sparring and crackling chemistry with Adrian is electric from their first meeting.

Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

Fun historical romance read. Adrian and Jane solve a. Murder while trying to deny their feelings for each other.

The mystery and romance in this was so cute. I haven't read the other books in the series, and this is my first time reading this author. I liked the pacing and the plot.

Adrian was so in love with Jane. Like so in love that he could've pretended as much as he wanted and everyone knew. I enjoyed this so much.

I got an e-arc of this book on NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

The fourth installment of the Ladies Most Scandalous series continues the saga from the previous books. In this story, Jane and Lord Fielding reunite, and reignite, desires after parting ways in dramatic happening in Jane's family. Years have past, and Jane has been forced into circumstances, due to her father's death, that are less than ideal. Fielding has furthered his life within the walls of the foreign service, and returns to find Jane's life in taters.

A mystery unravels at a dinner party both attend, leading them to partner to find the culprit. This mystery runs parallel to the love story. Their second-chance won't be thwarted by murder.

This series has been a joy to read, and I love the cameos from the past installments. I've been truly charmed and entertained, and look forward to future books.

Thank you, Forever

A Governess’s Guide to Passion and Peril is the latest installment in the Ladies Most Scandalous series. Manda Collins comes through yet again with historical romance seamlessly combined with a mystery in one delightful story.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

Jane Halliwell’s life changed with her diplomat father’s sudden death five years ago. Instead of being married with a household of her own, now she’s working as a governess. When Lord Adrian Fielding arrives at her employer’s home for a diplomatic gathering, Jane is surprised. She’s only run into her former crush Adrian a few times since they both lived in Rome, and she’s still hurt about the way he disappeared after her father’s death. Adrian remembers Jane as his mentor’s engaging daughter, not the smart and stunning young woman who impresses him at every turn. When Jane’s employer is murdered, the two join forces to investigate. Will their growing attraction help or hinder their efforts to solve the crime?

This book has murder and intrigue from the outset, along with a strong connection between the main characters. I like that the grudge between Adrian and Jane is cleared up early on, with no further miscommunication necessary. And, it’s great watching other characters explain to Adrian that he’ll never gain Jane’s favor if he tries to tell her what to do.

I figured out who did it early on, but it didn’t limit my enjoyment of the mystery or the romance. In this case, watching Jane and Adrian grow closer as they investigate the case is the best part. And, while characters from previous books make appearances, this story easily works as a standalone.

A Governess’s Guide to Passion and Peril is a charming story with equal doses of romance and mystery. Manda Collins balances both aspects of the story perfectly for a throughly enjoyable book.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Hmm – strange things are afoot in the Foreign Office as this excellently-written, well-paced, well-plotted historical romance/mystery unfolds. The protagonists are very likable and relatable, while the antagonist is venal and vile – just the way I like it. You’ll love it all – and it will keep you on the edge of your chair wondering who did it.

Five years ago, Miss Jane Halliwell’s world crashed and burned – to a cinder. Her beloved father, who worked for the Foreign Office, committed suicide and left Jane and her mother destitute from his gambling debts. She is now governess to Margaret, the daughter of her father’s good friend, Lord Gilford. Lady Gilford is not a supporter of Jane and takes every opportunity to belittle her and assure Jane knows of her now reduced place in society. Therefore, Jane is shocked when Lady Gilford informs her that, to keep the numbers right, she must attend a dinner that is part of an international symposium sponsored by Lord Gilford.

Lord Adrian Fielding, brother of the Duke of Langham (from book three), was a new and very young Foreign Office diplomat five years ago when his mentor committed suicide. He’d befriended the man’s young daughter, but, after the suicide, he was immediately sent away from Rome to another posting without even being able to say goodbye. He’d caught a glimpse of her two years ago, but she wouldn’t speak with him and seemed very angry. Now, he’s at this symposium – and she is here – and still angry. Why? He’s tried to find her since their encounter two years ago, but it seemed there was no trace of her. He hopes to make things right with her.

Since this is a romance – with a mystery tagging along for the ride – we’ll need to know a tad about the mystery. Jane finds Lord Gilford stabbed to death in his study. Who could have done such a thing? There is no shortage of suspects as the house is full of foreign dignitaries, servants, Foreign Office representatives, and family. Detective Inspector Eversham (from book 1) is immediately called in and enlists Adrian’s assistance. They would prefer to leave Jane out of it, but she insists on helping as Lord Gilford was one of the very few to give her a helping hand after her father’s suicide. As they work through the clues – and uncover other happenings at the Foreign Office – the danger to them increases, and they grow closer. While the identity of the antagonist didn’t surprise me, the depths of his depravity did.

I can definitely recommend this book and this series. While this isn’t my favorite of the series, it was a lovely read, an exciting mystery, and provided us with a well-deserved HEA. We also got nice visits with the main characters of the previous books and a sweet epilogue. I hope you’ll give this book a try and enjoy it as much as I did. Happy Reading.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Manda Collins does not miss! The world she has created is fantastic and the characters continue to captivate. This book fits in and is greatly enjoyable just like the others she's written.

This continues to be a delightful series - an exciting blend of romance and mystery. Somehow Manda Collins continues to keep this romance reader coming back for her mysteries - a testament to her talent!

Thanks to the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my review.

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
A Governess’s Guide to Passion and Peril is the fourth installment in Manda Collins’ Ladies Most Scandalous series. It can be read as a standalone, with both the mystery and romance being completely self-contained, although the characters did previously appear in earlier books in supporting roles.
I really enjoyed both leads, and I really liked learning more about them. They also have a prior acquaintance, which translated well to the romance. I also liked how their circumstances kind of paralleled each other, with them both coming from fairly well-off backgrounds, but making choices to work, in spite of their family or friends’ misgivings, with Jane serving as a governess and Adrian working with the Foreign Office. As for their pursuits, I did wish Jane’s novel writing was fleshed out, but I was otherwise satisfied with how things came together for them.
The mystery was also fairly interesting and fairly fast paced, with the action taking place over a few short days. What started as a single murder became a bit more complex, and it was fun to try to solve it along with Jane and Adrian.
This is another fun read, and I’d recommend it to readers looking for a fast-paced, fairly low-steam (but not completely closed-door) historical romantic mystery.

As much as I really enjoyed the previous books in this series, this one just seemed to be missing something for me.

I liked reading these books because the level of romance mixed with the murder mysteries was always perfect. Here everything felt off. It seemed like the investigating took a front seat and the romance was squished in wherever it would fit. I didn’t have enough time with Jane and Adrian together to really root for them or connect with them. The relationship seemed kind of forced and just happened.

Even though that portion of the story was disappointing, I did really enjoy how the mystery unfolded and was flying through the book to get to the answer of who did it. Sure, I may have guessed it about halfway through, but it was still fun to read.

This is the fourth book in the Ladies Most Scandalous series, but it certainly could work as a standalone. I would classify this as a historical romance with a very active serial murder side plot. It’s also light on the spice/steam.

For those who have read the series, this installment focuses on the governess, Jane Halliwell, and Lord Adrian Fielding, who were both introduced in the previous book. Jane and Adrian have known each other for years, since Jane was a student and Adrian worker with her father in the foreign service. However, they lost contact after her father’s sudden death (at his own hand) and the loss of their family’s fortune from gambling, Jane and her mother were shunned by those in society which relegated Jane to the position of Governess back in London. Now, several years later, when Jane’s boss hosts a symposium (with Adrian in attendance) and winds up murdered, Adrian and Jane are forced to spend time together as they work through the murder investigation. Spanning the course of a few days, this proximity reminds them both of the crushes they had before Jane’s father’s death.

Overall, I really enjoyed each book in this series and the Governess’s Guide was no exception! This story was very entertaining and the murder investigation keeps you on your toes trying to guess who the culprit is.

Another fantastic historical mystery from Manda. This one has Adrian and Jane. We have seen them before and I was waiting on their story. I can usually figure out the villain and I did in this one but Manda had me wondering who the mysterious E was. The why is one as old as time but I still did not connect it. I loved the whole story. Manda is really good at delivering a mystery with romantic elements. Adrian and Jane were such a cute couple working together. It was great seeing characters from the other books in this series.