How to Fall for a Scoundrel-Her Majesty's Rebels Book #2

by Kate Bateman-I read Second Duke's the Charm and gave it 4⭐

Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Publication 8/20/24, Read 8/23/24

Format: eBook, 320 pgs.

Setting: London 1816

Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press |St. Martin's Paperbacks for this ARC 🧡! I voluntarily give an honest review, and all opinions expressed are my own.

✔️ Historical/Regency Romance
✔️ Mystery
✔️ opposites attract
✔️ hidden identity
✔️ investigation agency
✔️classism
✔️insta-lust
✔️steamy

Summary: Eleanor "Ellie" Law 22 is co-owner of King and Company-a private investigation agency with her two friends Tess and Daisy. They are out to prove that women can solve cases just as well as men. A con man claiming to be their fictious boss "Charles King" wants to work with them, and to get proof of his real identity - Henri "Harry" Bonheur 26. Ellie takes on his case and they fall for each other. Will Harry's troubled past come back to haunt him, or will Ellie accept a reformed criminal?

I enjoyed Ellie and Harry's banter and Harry being a reformed "bad boy." Ellie was a smart little wallflower out to prove herself. Tess and Daisy were great friends who encouraged her to "act a little bad" with Harry. He brought out her adventurous side and she attempted to make him more respectable. I loved their HEA and can't wait for Daisy's story!

Here we freaking go!! I loved this one, and has firmly placed Kate back at the top of my autobuy historical romance authors!!!

Every time I read a book by Kate Bateman, I fall in love with her writing a little more. Her plots are so fresh, fun, and engaging; you can't help but get lost in the story.

How to Fall for a Scoundrel is a wonderful historical romance full of mystery, charm, intrigue, and steam. The banter between the characters was delightful. I cannot wait for the next book in the series.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for sending me an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I liked this so much! I haven't had much luck with newer historical romance, but the banter and the little hint of mystery in this book kept me turning pages and flying through them. I loved how firmly Ellie stuck to her morals but also how she relaxed with with Harry and his hijinks. He is pretty much the perfect scoundrel and loved getting to see his character unfold. Their connection was great from the beginning. I am really excited to see what happens next with this group of friends and private investigators.

What a pleasure this one was to read. Kate Bateman has such a heartwarming writing with lots of fun banter and character depth, and I always enjoy my reading a lot.

READ IF YOU LIKE
Strong female protagonist
Charming hero
A bit of mystery
Hidden identity
Wallflower
Passionate relationship

In this one, you get beautiful characters that are so easy to understand and appreciate. They are intelligent, strong-minded, witty and have undeniable chemistry right from the start. I say that often with Kate Bateman, but gosh how I appreciate how fast we get into the story. One chapter and I'm super intrigued already and got my feet kicking thinking of all that could happen next. She has a way of placing it all in a few paragraphs and you just know the rest of the ride will be so lovely.

The first meeting between our characters was simply amazing and for sure James Charles (yep, that's the name I chose for him, because my French speaking brain just refuse the name Mr.Bonheur haha) entered the scene and stole my heart. Full of mystery, so sure of himself, a bit cocky and oh so charming, he was impossible to resist. I really enjoyed the progression of the love story mixed with all the mystery and investigations ongoing. It kept me interested from start to finish.

You can tell Bateman knows a lot about history and historical objects and that is something I thoroughly appreciate seeing in her books. You can tell she loves it and she's sharing that passion through her stories in a beautiful way, keeping the reader fascinated at all times.

I was really relieved that our characters didn't get into a big argument because I am not a fan of that third act breakup mess. They acted like adults and were so chill, I loved it so much. It didn't make their thoughts or problems any less valid, but as a reader it made it all agreeable to read. That ending really solidified my love for James Charles, my gosh! the thoughtfulness of that man... straight to my heart, *swoon*.

It is an easy one to read even if you haven't read the first book but it surely made me happy to get back to the characters from the first one and continue to enjoy the great friendship our heroines share. I have to admit that the more I get to see Daisy the more excited I am for her book, I have such a good feeling about her!

Thanks to the publisher and the author for my eARC. All opinions are my own.

I loved Ellie and Harry as a couple. This story had it all, chemistry, humor, banter, adventure and dimples! I love the friendship and support Ellie, Tess and Daisy have for each other. I do wish we had more chapters with Harry’s point of view but this was an enjoyable read.

“Those wicked dimples appeared. “Because I want to steal you away from here and keep you all to myself.”

“Harry watched Ellie saunter away and clenched his hand into a fist against the urge to grab the back of her dress and pull her back against him for a kiss.”

Thank you St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC!

A wonderfully engaging story of a bad boy, Harry who gets into all types of mischief and adventures. Ellie is a straight laced unmarried woman who suddenly realizes that she has a desire to experience more of life. The second book in the series that will have you fully engaged from page to page. You will laugh, hold your breath and be kept on your toes every minute. Amazing creativity, well crafted characters and so much more. Run don't walk to obtain this book and series.

This story had me hooked right from the start. The moment Harry showed up, I was smitten, and Ellie's genuine nature was a breath of fresh air. Harry's laid-back vibe always made me smile, and he had this incredible ability to put everyone at ease. With his encouragement, Ellie started to relax and enjoy herself more. I couldn't get enough of their exchanges; Harry's charm was simply irresistible, while Ellie's authenticity was so heartwarming. They complemented each other beautifully, and I found myself cheering for them right from the start. Harry's enthusiasm for life was infectious, and I admired Ellie's commitment to her work. Together, they brought out the best in one another, and I was completely enchanted by their love story.

Their compatibility was clearly evident, and I adored the little mysteries they tackled together. Harry's background as a con man brought a unique twist to their adventures, showcasing his wit and confidence. The disguises and clever tricks they employed were both imaginative and effective. I was intrigued by the mystery surrounding Harry also, as his true identity remained a secret until halfway through the book. Their chemistry was electric, and I was thoroughly entertained by their playful banter and natural connection.

The writing was beautifully crafted, making the story engaging, fun, and informative. The historical aspects were woven into the storyline so effortlessly that they felt like a natural part of the tale rather than a lecture. With minimal angst and a strong emphasis on character growth, the mystery subplot enriched the romance instead of eclipsing it. The supporting characters were just as delightful, contributing to the overall enjoyment. I wholeheartedly recommend this
book to anyone looking to immerse themselves in a story for a day; you will undoubtedly fall in love with love.

I received an early copy from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#NetGalley #StMartinsPress

I am fairly new to regency romance, and when this widget was sent to me, I decided to give it a go, and I'm so glad I did. There's delicious tension, a fully fleshed out mystery, and such great female friendships here. I loved how Ellie pushed her boundaries and became a better Pl because of it. I liked how Harry had to work to earn trust that he's a reformed scoundrel. It was fun and I'll definitely read this author again.

As one of the founding members of King &Company, London’s most discreet private investigators and self-proclaimed wallflower, Miss Eleanor “Ellie” Law has resigned herself to spinsterhood. But that is before a scoundrel stole a kiss under the mistletoe and then claimed to be the elusive Mr. Charles King and gaining the agency a very lucrative assignment. The catch? The scoundrel insists on being part of the assignment and partnering with Ellie. Ellie is not sure she can trust “Henri” which is most definitely not his real name, but she can’t help becoming infatuated with him and it doesn’t take long for her to fall for him completely. But Henri is not exactly who she thought he was and when his true identity is known, will there be a possibility of HEA?

Henri Bonheur aka the Comte de Carabas aka Henry Brooke is not the man that the world thinks him to be, he is a scoundrel, but he has a secret that will change his life forever. But to claim his birthright, he needs the help of King & Company, most especially the help of lovely Ellie. Henry wants his life back, but since he has fallen head over heels for the not so prim and proper Miss Law, it is more important than ever, but will she be able to forgive his deceit? Or has he already lost his chance for HEA?

This was a fun, fast-paced read with very likable characters. The story has secrets, intrigue, hidden identities, action, steamyish love scenes, great secondary characters, and finally a happy ending complete with an epilogue. I liked this story a lot, but I would have liked a bit more romantic development, they both fell very quickly and while they had chemistry, their romance seemed rushed. Overall, it was a great story, and I would happily recommend this book and am looking forward to the next installment! This is the second book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone title.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *

I really enjoyed this book! Kate Bateman knows how to write a fun, romantic, historical romance. The characters were written well, and had great chemistry and banter. Overall, a fun and quick read!

Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the ARC!

This was a fun, romantic, and sizzly historic romance. The characters are who have great chemistry, fun banter, and do a lot of sleuthing. Just fun times!

Great addition to the Her Majesty's Rebels series! I loved Ellie and her determination to prove that women are just as good at solving crimes as men are. She knows "Henri Bonheur" is lying about who he is, but can she figure out who he is? As their joint investigation continues she realizes that she has feelings for him, but how can she when she doesn't know who he really is? I can't wait to see the conclusion of this series with Daisy, I want to see what kind of man will "tame" her.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This review is based on an ARC from NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.

Such a fun book! At first I wondered if Harry was too good to be true, but he really turned out to be a jem of a man. Ellie is smart and beautiful and his perfect partner. The romance was HOT. I look forward to book #3. Thank you to netgalley for the ARC. Opinions are my own.

This is an entertaining, well-written book. It was fun, steamy, witty and fast-paced. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books by this author.

This book was an exciting, daring, lusty, adventurous, fun read; I’m loving the rebellious women of the King & Co PI firm!

THOUGHTS 💭
💎 Harry/Henri/Henry (our MMC with no name/many names) is a dimpled, flirty, playful rogue and I loved the mystery that surrounded him!
💎 The dialogue is quick and witty and the characters are so smart; Ellie and our MMC are a perfect match!
💎 Watching the straight and narrow Ellie bend her morals as an accomplice to Harry was funny and entertaining.
💎 Instalove isn’t really my jam - I wanted to see more build-up to the characters’ feelings! That being said, I loved the chemistry between these two.
💎 I love the found family that Ellie has in Tess and Daisy; I can’t wait for Daisy’s story next!

Thanks so much to Kate Bateman and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC of this book!

Ellie and Harry were a cute couple and I enjoyed the story. I liked their banter and thoroughly enjoyed reading this book!

I adore reading anything Kate Bateman writes because she does sexy, witty banter so well. I am happy to say, Ellie and Henry were off the charts. Between Henry’s charm and Ellie’s spunk, how could they go wrong? Especially when Henry enjoyed their verbal sparring and teasing simply to see Ellie’s reaction.

I couldn’t help but root for these two. Henry couldn’t seem to help himself as he went around breaking his own “rules”. Which was a good thing! For example, Rule #8: What you take, you sell. What you’re given, you keep. Henry was determined to keep Ellie’s heart. He saw her as the intelligent, curious woman she is. Not like the other men who simply saw a wallflower, a woman to be ignored.

My heart was cheering for Ellie as she removed her cloak at the Willingham’s town house. Just once in her life she wanted to rob a man of his breath, and she did just that when she revealed the green gown. That smooth, charismatic man was suddenly at a loss for words at the sight of Ellie!

I thoroughly enjoyed How To Fall for a Scoundrel and recommend it to anyone who enjoys sexy, steamy, swoony, historical romances. Although this is the second book in the Her Majesty’s Rebels series, it can easily be read as a standalone. Wonderful characters from the first book have cameos in this book, adding to the fun! I can’t wait for book three in the series, Daisy’s book, to see what Kate Bateman has in store!

Thank you to Kate Bateman, St. Martin’s Publishing, and Netgalley for an advanced copy. I voluntarily read the book and gladly leave my unbiased opinion.

A riff on Charlie's Angels...

This was a historical spin on Charlie's Angels.
Eleanor is clever and bent on discovering who is pretending to be Charles King, ie, her boss.
Henri, Harry is a grifter, con artist. I wanted so much better for Eleanor. But nope, she gets a criminal, who is pretending to be Charles King.