It's important to acknowledge that I have previous experience with this author before, and that experience was quite negative. With that said, my initial reading of Roux's work involved a science fiction horror titled Salvaged. I received a "Read Now" offer via email, and the book was advertised as a historical romance with mystery elements, which sounds like something I would enjoy. I also gravitated toward the title, an obvious allusion to Shakespeare's Much Ado About Nothing.

The beginning of this narrative held promise. I appreciated Margaret's passion for writing and the struggle she faces as she attempts to become a published author in Regency England. I also liked the nods to Much Ado About Nothing through the narrative structuring of this story. However, the character development for our protagonists and surrounding cast is surface level, and the actions/reactions from these characters are childish or executed in a way that makes it hard to believe this might occur during the Regency era. This criticism comes from someone who is far from an expert in social etiquette and practices from this time period. The drama (and trauma) involving Bridger and his brother was summarized more often than not, and attempts at pulling heartstrings was not natural. I am most disappointed by the climactic moment where the two villains are revealed, and the aftermath that includes a character telling others just how loud the leading couple's s*x was.

I will not be recommending this book to others, and I will not be trying this author for a third time.

Actual Rating: 2.o stars
Pub Date: 22 October 2024
Reading Format: ebook

Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine for an E-ARC copy in exchange for this honest review!