I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Almost A Scandal by Elizabeth Essex
Series: The Reckless Brides, #1, #1
Published by Oliver-Heber Books on January 28, 2020
Genres: Fiction / Historical / General, Fiction / Romance / General, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Regency
Pages: 400
Format: ARC, eBook
Source: Netgalley
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Bold, Brazen and Beautiful,
the Reckless Brides refuse to play by Society's rules of courtship. But--come hell or high water--they always get their man.

SHE'S ALWAYS READY FOR ADVENTURE. HE'S ALMOST READY FOR LOVE...

A LADY IN DISGUISE
For generations, the Kents have served proudly with the British Royal Navy. So when her younger brother refuses to report for duty, Sally Kent slips into uniform and takes his place--at least until he comes to his senses. Boldly climbing aboard H.M.S. Audacious, Sally is as able-bodied as any sailor there. But one man is making her feel tantalizingly aware of the full-bodied woman beneath her navy blues...

A MAN OVERBOARD
Dedicated to his ship, sworn to his duty--and distractingly gorgeous--Lieutenant David Colyear sees through Sally's charade, and he's furious. But he must admit she's the best midshipman on board--and a woman who tempts him like no other. With his own secrets to hide and his career at stake, Col agrees to keep her on. But can the passion they hide survive the perils of battle at sea? Soon, their love and devotion will be put to the test...

This book was right up my alley. Sally Kent disguises herself as a midshipman to take her younger brother’s place, serving under her older brother’s friend, Colyear. Coming from a family steeped in the Royal Navy, Sally knows her way around a ship and refuses to back down from challenges. She’s especially admirable in how she stands up to bullies and protects the younger crew members — earning both respect and suspicion along the way.

Of course, Sally’s situation is precarious. She loves the freedom of life at sea, but she constantly fears discovery, knowing she is breaking the rules of her time. Colyear, meanwhile, begins to suspect there’s more to this sharp, capable “midshipman” than meets the eye. His growing affection for Sally is matched by her long-standing crush on him, but aboard a ship, romance is complicated. Watching the two of them navigate their feelings while maintaining their duties made for a fun and engaging push-and-pull.

What I especially loved was seeing Sally excel at tasks that most women of her era would never be allowed to attempt. She proves her courage, intelligence, and skill time and again, making her a heroine I couldn’t help but root for. Both she and Colyear are likable characters, and their chemistry feels natural and well-matched. By the end, I just wanted them to find a way to be together, because they truly are perfect for each other.