The Benevolent Society of Ill-Mannered Ladies: A rollicking, joyous Regency adventure, with a beautiful love story at its heart

In the historical mystery series The Lady Goodman, Lady Augusta Colebrook and her twin sister, Julia, use their wits and invisibility as old maids to protect other women in Regency London. The sisters set out to rescue their friend's goddaughter, Caroline, from her violent husband, Lord Evan Belford, who was falsely accused of murder and exiled to Australia twenty years ago. With Lord Evan injured and unconscious, the sisters have no choice but to bring him on their mission. The book is a high adventure full of danger, clever improvisation, heart-racing near misses, and a little help from a revived and charming Lord Evan. The sisters are determined to prove Lord Evan's innocence and help others in need, despite societal expectations. The series is praised for its feminist approach, compelling characters, and exciting adventure.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 464 pages
Publication date: 30 May 2023
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

Lady Augusta Colebrook, Gus, is a determinedly unmarried forty-two-year-old who finds society life dull and tiresome. She and her twin sister, Julia, are grieving the loss of their betrothed and seek a distraction. One opportunity arises when they are tasked with rescuing their friend's goddaughter, Caroline, from her violent husband. The sisters set out to Caroline's country estate with a plan, but their carriage is accosted by a highwayman. In the ensuing scuffle, Gus accidentally shoots the ruffian, only to discover that he is Lord Evan Belford, an acquaintance from their past who was charged with murder and exiled to Australia twenty years ago. With Lord Evan injured and unconscious, the sisters have no choice but to bring him back to their home in London.

As they nurse him back to health, Gus and Evan begin to develop feelings for each other, despite their complicated past. Lord Evan is a charming and charismatic man, while Gus is intelligent and independent. They must navigate the social norms and expectations of the Regency era while also dealing with the consequences of Gus's accidental shooting.

As the investigation into Lord Evan's past unfolds, Gus and Evan discover that there is more to the story than meets the eye. They learn that Lord Evan was framed for the murder of his wife and that he has been searching for the real culprit for years. They also discover that Caroline is not as innocent as they thought and that she has her own secrets and motivations.

Through their investigation, Gus and Evan become involved in the high society of London, attending parties and balls and meeting influential people. They also face challenges and obstacles, including the disapproval of Gus's family and the suspicions of Lord Evan's former allies.

In the end, Gus and Evan must work together to clear Lord Evan's name and bring the real murderer to justice. They also must confront their own demons and learn to trust each other in a world that is full of secrets and deception.

The Lady Goodman series is a thrilling and feminist historical mystery that explores the lives of women in Regency London. It is full of compelling characters, including Lady Augusta Colebrook, Gus, and Lord Evan Belford, who are all complex and flawed. The series is also filled with suspense, romance, and adventure, making it a must-read for fans of historical fiction and mystery.

Overall, The Lady Goodman series is a wonderful and refreshing addition to the world of historical fiction. It is a must-read for fans of Regency era literature and mystery, and it is sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment.

Weight: 318g
Dimension: 128 x 197 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780349432830