Unfortunately, I just don't have any moments from this book that stick out to me, so I can't really say anything else about this one.

I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and am leaving my review voluntarily.

I’ll be honest, this one just didn’t work for me, and I ended up DNFing it fairly early on. With the writing style, after the first five chapters, nothing had really stuck with me. I found myself confused more often than not, and the language felt like it was trying too hard to be “Regency” without actually moving the plot forward.

Right from the beginning, I noticed some contradictions in the writing that threw me off. For example, we’re told that Penhallow finds Lucy bland and forgettable, but just a few paragraphs later, he’s completely struck by her beauty, calling her the most stunning woman he’s ever seen…

Given Manda Collins’s long list of published works, I expected the writing to feel more refined. Instead, it felt uneven and difficult to connect with. The characters didn’t hook me, and I didn’t feel grounded in the story enough to want to keep going.

That said, just because it wasn’t for me doesn’t mean it won’t be for you. If you’re a fan of historical romance with a splash of mystery and a whole lot of romance, this might hit the spot. But for readers looking for tighter plotting, consistent characterization, and more polished prose, it may fall short.

I am disappointed in this Collins; her writing, plots, characters, and themes usually work so well for me. But this particular romance never took flight: I couldn't understand the hero's response to the heroine, where it was coming from, or why he wouldn't want to marry her given she was an heiress and that's what he needed for his estate. The heroine, Lucy, was a tad better, but the plot twist, with the friend's kidnapping, felt very much like it was coming from the "perils of Pauline". Collins continues to be an adept, at times, elegant writer, but overall, this "wallflower" never came alive.

This book delivers a fresh twist on the classic Regency romance formula with a clever blend of mystery and charm. Lucy Penhallow is the kind of heroine who refuses to be boxed in by society’s expectations, and her sharp wit paired with Viscount Gilford’s brooding determination makes for an engaging duo. The fake engagement trope feels anything but tired here, especially with the added suspense of a murder investigation threading through the story. The pacing is solid, keeping the intrigue alive without sacrificing the romance’s emotional depth. While a few plot points lean into predictability, the sparkling banter and well-drawn characters more than compensate. It’s a delightful start to a series that promises even more twists and warmth to come.

I always love a good historical romance mystery, and this one had lots of twists and turns. I did figure it out a bit earlier than I hoped, but the reveal at the end was still a very tense scene. Definitely a fun book to read!

Thank you Forever for the review copy!

This book was a ride. And don't let that cover fool you. While it is not spicy in the least, it is incredibly entertaining and full of historical mystery. This is the first book in the series and does some of the heavy lifting required of a first book but also feels like it is giving a lot of nods to the authors previous series. There are a lot of names dropped and sometimes it was a bit confusing. However, I chose to overlook and not read too much into some of the ton names/families mentioned and focus on the two main characters and their besties.

There is a kidnapping and murder mystery at the heart of this book that pushes our two characters together. At times it felt wild and absurd BUT I enjoyed the ride so much and just went with it. And I'm glad I did. I also want to read the next books in the series as I suspect the author has set it up nicely for future couples.

Not my favorite from this author. The story was a little bit drawn out and not as developed as I think it could be.

A regency romance/murder mystery which has a great, fast pace and an intriguing storyline. This was a super quick, easy read and I really enjoyed it. If you’re looking for a light, fun read - this is it!

Lucy finds her match in Will who is in need of a wife as they work together to solve the disappearance of Lucy's friend.

This is a light romance that feels a bit rushed? They are falling head over heels in five days, but it also felt sort of forced. Will's friend seemed a better fit for Lucy than Will himself. As far as romance goes, this is weak for readers who like that slow pull of will they, won't they around a mystery. There's also usually a little more to the conversations in mysteries than just the mystery.

The mystery though was interestingly set up. Vera disappears from a ball and our hero and heroine are led on twists and turns until all is revealed. That was nicely plotted and very interesting.

The book could have also benefited from a few more rounds of editing. There were times where I didn't know who was doing what and a few time where the wrong character said something. There was also a slip with "Cousin/Uncle Andrew."

Overall, mystery readers might find something fun in this, but this reader wanted just a little more out of this.

I have enjoyed the other entries in this series, but this one was not as polished as those. There was a lot of repetitive description. The plot had some holes and the motivation for the crimes the heroine and hero were investigating didn't make sense. The obstacle to them getting together also wasn't fully fleshed out. The hero kept saying condescending things.... and I get this is the 19th century, but part of the charm of this series is that there is some suspension of disbelief around the way the sleuthing the heroines do is perceived by the other characters. Anyway, his condescension made their romance feel a bit lacking. This was a case of love at first sight, but I didn't find the chemistry believable.

If you’re looking for a historical romance that also serves up a clever little mystery, A Wallflower’s Guide to Viscounts and Vice delivers just that—equal parts cozy whodunit and swoon-worthy courtship.

Rather than trying to crack the case myself, I let the story lead me through its twists and secrets, and honestly? It was a delight. The plot has all the makings of a classic mystery: stolen identities, secret engagements, and betrayal lurking in the most unexpected places. The pacing builds beautifully, and the reveals are timed just right to keep the pages turning.

Lucy, our leading lady, is easy to root for. Her fierce loyalty to her missing friend, and her refusal to sit on the sidelines, made her an especially compelling heroine. She’s a wonderful mix of heart and grit, showing strength through both her actions and her empathy. Whether she’s comforting someone or charging headfirst into danger, Lucy shines.

The romance, while a bit on the fast side (think more spark than slow burn), still hits the mark emotionally. Set in 1874, there’s plenty of delicious tension and longing—the kind that makes every lingering glance and accidental brush of the hand feel like a big deal. While insta-love isn’t usually my thing, the chemistry and sweet moments between the couple still had me smiling like a fool.

With short chapters and a light, engaging tone, this series feels like a perfect palate cleanser between heavier reads. That said, readers looking for a deep, slow-burning romance might want to adjust expectations. But if you’re in the mood for a historical mystery with a touch of romance—and characters you’ll genuinely root for—this one’s absolutely worth picking up.

Lucy Penhallow is a rich heiress who would rather be a wallflower than deal with insipid conversations from fortune-hunting suitors. After she and Viscount Gilford, her best friend's brother, witness the kidnapping of a friend, they set their sights on finding the missing lady one way or another. That it gives them an excuse to spend time together and get to know each other better is merely a happy coincidence.

Gilford saved this book for me. Lucy reads like a typical amateur sleuth, which I'm frankly a little done with. However, by having Gildford's side of the story and his interaction with Lucy, Collins makes things a bit more interesting. I also really liked his character. He's apprehensive about taking on the responsibilities of his title, but he does it anyway because it's what his family needs. And he stands up whenever Lucy needs him to, which makes Lucy falling for him so quickly easy to believe.

It's also a good plot that's full of little twists and surprises. The main element was super easy to figure out, but getting to that revelation was still a very exciting read, so I'm forgiving that part.

Overall, there are thrills, romance, and witty conversations that make it a fun read full of interesting characters.

Happy thanks to NetGalley and Forever for the fun romantic read!

4.5 stars

This one hooked me right away – I love a historical romance murder mystery. Lucy is a girl after my own heart – a wallflower that would rather read a murder mystery then socialize with others. Will was a swoony and protective leading man. I enjoyed the banter and romance of Lucy and Will while they tried to investigate the crime they witnessed. This had some of my favorite tropes – engagement of convenience, forced proximity, and best friend’s brother. I did not guess the mystery, but I really enjoyed the adventure to get there! I also haven’t read the previous series this is a spin-off of, so I definitely plan to go back and read those. I can guess one of the next couples, and I’m excited for their story! All in all, this was a cute, fast-paced, cozy mystery.

My favorite line was: “If you would stop escorting Lucy to crime scenes as some sort of bizarre courting ritual…”

Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this ARC!

The Wallflower’s Guide to Viscounts and Vice was such a fun and heartwarming read! I love a good wallflower heroine, and this book delivered with a smart, quietly bold main character who completely stole my heart.

The chemistry between the heroine and the viscount was just right—slow-building, filled with banter, and full of emotional tension. I really enjoyed how their relationship grew from guarded curiosity to genuine connection. It felt natural and romantic without being overly dramatic.

The historical setting was charming and well-done, and the writing had just the right balance of humor and heart. I also loved the themes of self-worth and breaking out of the roles society expects.

This was a lovely escape and a great pick for fans of sweet, Regency-era romance with strong characters.

Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the ARC.

Historical murder mystery with a mix of ROM. This is the first of a new series, spinoff of another. William, Viscount Gilford, was overcome by the death of his father, and fled to France, leaving his mother and sister in London. He thought that the estate was left in good hands, but received word that a trusted steward had been embezzling the estate for years and had absconded with a fortune. He needed to get back to England and marry an heiress. Miss Lucy Penhallow is a close friend of his sister's and a heiress and he is drawn to her immediately. She has no interest in marriage, unless it is a love match. What gets her excited is reading and investigating, and conveniently for her, her cousin is Detective Superintendent at Scotland Yard and has indulged her in allowing her to work there. When she and William witness a friend of hers being kidnapped at a ball, they unite to find her. But there is more to this kidnapping than meets the eye, when they start following a trail of bodies. Well written with a sense of humor, the characters are delightful and made for each other.

I read a gifted Advanced Readers' Copy from the publisher, vis NetGalley.com. There were a few issues in the story, but I assume those were fixed in the published version. This is my unbiased, voluntary and honest review.

I love it when historical romances have strong, feisty heroines, and a storyline outside of the romance, and this book fit the bill. It was a witty, fun read. I also really appreciated that the male protagonist, Viscount Gilford, treated our heroine, Lucy, as someone smart and capable, even when she was acting outside the typical role of a woman of her time.

When Lucy witnesses a crime, she is determined to solve it. At the same time, her best friend’s older brother is looking for a wife to prevent financial ruin. Circumstances keep pushing them apart.

Thank you Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and NetGalley for the ARC.

This was a fun read! A little too long for my taste, but an excellent mix of romance and mystery, filled with cozy vibes!! I greatly appreciate that the romance meshes so seamlessly with the mystery, strengthening the story. I’m glad I got this ARC!!!

Very light, fast paced read. This spinoff from the Ladies Most Scandalous series keeps up the brief of cozy, historical mystery romp. I definitely would recommend this to people who like the genre and I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for this eARC.

Manda Collins writes headstrong females and males who try to protect them until they realize it’s better to go with them than against them. Lucy and Gilford’s relationship is a classic best friend’s brother with some murder and mystery thrown in. I absolutely loved it

Oh A Wallflower’s Guide to Viscounts and Vice was cute! I enjoyed the mystery too! I always enjoy a cozy mystery and it being historical was another cool element.