About the Book:

Some secrets are worth stealing. Some hearts are harder to escape.

Lady Elsbeth Caldwell has long suspected that her stepfather is hiding something far more sinister behind his polished façade. Determined to uncover the truth, she embarks on an investigation that leads her to take desperate measures, including robbing a passing coach under the cover of night. Unfortunately, the coach belongs to Niles Drayton, Earl of Westcott—a man with a sharp tongue, a sharper wit, and a maddening ability to remain amused in even the most scandalous circumstances.

Niles has no patience for matchmaking schemes, particularly those orchestrated by his well-meaning aunt. But when he’s introduced to the opinionated and undeniably intriguing Lady Elsbeth, he is determined to keep her as far away from his sister—and himself—as possible.

As threats begin to close in around Elsbeth, Niles is pulled deeper into her world. What begins as a reluctant association soon becomes an uneasy alliance, and then something far more a fragile, undeniable connection. When long-buried secrets come to light and the true extent of the deception surrounding Elsbeth is revealed, the two must trust each other if they hope to survive.

Because this time, it isn’t just Elsbeth’s heart at risk—it’s her life.

| Goodreads |

My Review:

An Improbable Scheme by Laura Beers
Rating: 4/5
Pages: 300
Published: July 1, 2025
Series: Courting the Unconventional

Disclosure: I received this book free from the publisher/author. The opinions I have expressed are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

I wasn’t sure when I started this one quite what to expect. I’ve read enough of Beers’ stories by now to have a basic idea of what to expect with her writing and yet she always manages to surprise me along the way. This one was a pleasant surprise, and actually reminded me a bit of the first story I read by her, Secrets of a Lady. It’s different, but similar in ways too, and I loved it for both reasons!

Elsbeth and Niles were surprisingly similar, and yet delightfully unique characters at the same time. I loved seeing them work through the various challenges, and for once the twist actually took me considerable time and effort to work out. I often guess the twists in stories early on, but this one took a bit of considering, and I loved that! I also loved seeing the different elements and pieces falling into place as the story goes on. This is a delightful start to the new series.

Other books in the series:
(Below is a list of the other books I’ve read & reviewed for this series)

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