REVIEW
First, this is another rollicking Victorian England adventure by Allison Grey! Before I say anything else, I want to draw attention to the clever title A Brush With Scandal which reflects the female lead character’s passion and talent for art. But this artist’s brush is shaded by scandal. She painted herself into a corner and no matter how hard she tries to start over, the past is not yet done with her. Violet is an exceptional artist from England but she has been living in France, cultivating her talent in the great culture rich city of Paris. She is happy and finally doing what she loves but the dangers of yesterday are knocking on her door again. And even though she has desperately tried to maintain a new lease on life, her past comes back to haunt her through a shady character she once escaped. Sadly, she made a promise years ago to a notorious criminal named Archie Neville who freed her and her friend Della from an orphanage, and now he is back and determined to reclaim his prize.
I actually read the author’s previous book The Lady Thief from Belgravia which is mostly about Della (who is also included in A Brush with Scandal). Violet was in that novel, too, as these two ladies are best friends. It was a rollicking great ride which I enjoyed and the current novel is somewhat of a continuation but the main focus now is on Violet. So, this is her story. And what a story it is! She is always trying to escape her scandalous roots in the rookery of Seven Dials but it seems an impossible task. Until… she meets handsome John Barrow, an undercover detective, who originally is from her neck of the woods, too. He has done well for himself first as a valet to an important societal figure but now he works for the law and is hoping to catch Archie and his gang and put them away for a very long time. Of course, Violet wants the same thing so they pair up to plan their attack. Along the way, these two become very close so yes, there is a romance element to the story. They are an interesting couple and both likeable characters. Their frustrations are well presented and they live a little dangerously at times affected by their attraction. But the ultimate goal to catch the vile criminal Archie and his men are always the main focus behind their actions. And for John, ensuring safety for Violet and her friend are number one on his list.
This story set in 1883 is full of danger, criminal activity, social conflicts and class distinction issues, plus it is highlighted with a dash of romance. A Brush With Scandal is an enjoyable ride through the past of Victorian England with interesting possibilities of what could have been happening at the time. I cringed at the criminals’ actions (as one would!), marvelled at John’s boxing skills and admired Violet for her courage and determination. My heart was also uplifted by the attempts of those from the poorer sides of the tracks trying to create better lives for themselves. I was able to picture the art that Violet created and how her gift could ultimately be used for great purposes. She had a good heart, like her co-pilot John, and I was very happy with the ending the author provided for them and others who play an important role in catching the criminals. A few messages that shine brightly from A Brush With Scandal are: the importance of never giving up against the odds and that everyone deserves a second chance and are worthy of love. This novel deserves 4 strong stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.
