The series continues to charm, Kate Bateman always hits the spot when I'm in need for a lighthearted historical romance (with a plot), and How to Fall for a Scoundrel is no difference. Centering around a detective agency set up by the series heroine trio, I'm glad to report there's indeed a lot of sleuthing incorporated within its narrative—and the case is a densely layered one, cascading like Dominoes with 1 case leading smoothly into the next (I do have to overlook a few logic gaps, but they don't hinder the overall experience). The romance is cute (if not overly dramatic/emotional), primarily due to the snappy banters, but it does lose a bit of momentum in its last stretch—the third act conflict feels muted and halfhearted, more like a prerequisite to get to a novel-length page count rather than a necessity for its romance arc. Still, How to Fall for a Scoundrel is a solid entry to the series, and I can't wait for the third book!

**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**