Another novel of sass and sensibility, starring the two spinster sisters (Augusta and Julia), full of danger, wit, poor decision-making, and the triumph of heart and sheer willpower over evil.

In tracing the truth of the death for which Lord Evan was transported, our heroes are led to a Gentleman's Club full of the worst the aristocracy has to offer, and threatened by a thief-taker who thinks themself above the law. Terrible decisions on the part of all characters concerned threaten to pull the sisters' hidden secrets onto their heads, and there are several entirely awful brothers on display.

Somewhat too much romantic pining for my tastes, but this may be a feature for other readers.

3.5 stars, but I spent most of the time trying to figure out what was going on-- this book follows *very* closely on the heels of book one, and readers will need to remember a lot of details. While I still really like the series as a whole, I'm going to say, wait for the series to finish publication and then read everything in one go (or, re-read the series each time a new book comes out, if you're really into it). This story ends right on the set-up to book 3, ready to throw everyone headlong into another adventure.

No new characters (I think? maybe just 1 or 2) but the same authentically-diverse crew as before.

eARC from NetGalley.

An excellent read that fits well into a lot of modern discussions about feminism, sex, patriarchy, and more, despite its historical setting.

This book swept me off my feet! The Colebrook sisters are everything I never knew I needed; intelligent, resourceful, and so unapologetically bold. Gus and Julia are so much more than the “old maids” society paints them to be. I absolutely loved their quiet defiance and how they worked behind the scenes to protect those who needed help. Gus and Lord Evan’s dynamic is such a beautiful, slow-burn romance that had me hooked. Add in the mystery, danger, and high stakes, and you have a truly unputdownable read that had me cheering for these women every step of the way. I definitely can’t wait enough to start recommending it to HR lovers.

Really enjoying this series and am so looking forward to the next book. Great story telling that flows so well. Lots of great research must have been done as well.📖📖👏👏

I didn't think it was possible, but, yes, this was better than The Benevolent Society of Ill Mannered Ladies! It was such a great continuation of the first book! And it set us up for the third book which sounds so promising! The girls and their guys while trying to right Evan's wrong and keep Lady Hester safe fall into an even worse situation than the ones in the first book. I just couldn't put it down and devoured it much too quickly! So sad I have to wait for more!