This was a fun historical with a strong and determined heroine.

Zia is a Lady. She is the daughter of a Duke, refined, and was the “diamond” of her season. But she also has a mind of her own, a sense of adventure, and a belief that the ends justify the means. She is the brains and driving force behind a daring scheme to save her school and the accompanying orphanage. She essentially shows no fear.

Rafi is a gentleman, and her brother’s best friend. He is intrigued by Zia and keeps her secrets when he figures out what she and her friends are up to. He has a reputation as a rogue, but is also a sensitive and passionate painter, under the thumb of his Viscount uncle.

Rafi and Zia grow incredibly close and fall in love with each other. While I believe that they are a great match, the chemistry between them was not as strong as Keston and Elle’s from the first book in this duology. But they do have a lot of fun together, and both stand behind the other when needed.

I enjoyed this story and loved seeing South Asian characters as part of the British aristocracy. There are also LGBTQIA+ characters, as well as characters who choose love over station.

The ending is fun, with good triumphing over evil, and family standing up for family.

Disclaimer: I received an eARC for review consideration though NetGalley, on behalf of the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.