This opening rescue mission might be one of my very favourite meet-cutes! It perfectly set the tone for a story full of adventure, with a headstrong heroine and a disgruntled hero who clash in the best way. Lydia, in particular, was a wonderful character! As the second-richest unmarried heiress in London, she spends her time anonymously writing political pamphlets filled with radical ideas. I absolutely loved her bravery, wit, and determination!

When Lydia arrives at the Earl of Strathrannoch’s door expecting to meet the intellectual kindred spirit she’s been corresponding with, she’s shocked to discover it wasn’t the Earl she’d been writing to, but his brother! The twist deepens when it’s revealed that this traitorous brother is missing, along with a very important invention—a reveal that sends Lydia and the Earl, Arthur, on a thrilling mission to find him!

The mystery surrounding Arthur’s brother was a lot of fun! There was plenty of intrigue and clue unraveling, all of which led to some unexpected relationship developments. That said, I wish I had enjoyed the romance more. While I liked these characters a lot, it focused heavily on their physical attraction. Much of their interactions were driven by lust and their constant need to jump into bed together. Sigh. Still, they were undoubtedly a fiery pairing I know others will enjoy!

(heat level: multiple open-door scenes, explicit details)

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