Eleanor Law likes to solve crimes and prove that women are just as capable as men. She does so with the help of her best friends at King & Co., London’s most successful private investigation firm, whose titular King is a made-up man to get people to take them seriously. When a charming con man introduces himself as the fictional "Charles King," Ellie knows he's lying, but he just might be the key to solving their latest case. “Henri Bonheur”, or “Harry” to his friends, has left his criminal past behind, but his ease with lying and seduction have Ellie infuriated to realize she feels something for him. Can she look past the mysterious man's past, or will it tear them apart when it catches up to him?

A Kate Bateman romance is a guaranteed good time with a fun plot, smart characters, and the perfect dose of spice. The fact that both Ellie and Harry are extremely likeable is the cherry on top. The cases were easy and a little obvious, but we're not really here for that, because the romance is top form. Their attraction is obvious, with their smart banter the perfect foreplay for the studious wallflower who blooms when she's with Harry.
My one minor quibble is that Ellie has a martyr complex that combines with low self-esteem when it comes to relating with men. She's so smart and confident in going after what she wants, yet she wilts the second there's potential for more with Harry. I get why it might have made sense for the story, but I would have preferred to see her be brave and forward in everything.

Delighted thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Paperbacks for the smart romance read!