A Scheming in Parliament by Erica Vetsch | Book Review

Welcome to the Takeover + Review Blitz for A Scheming in Parliament by Erica Vetsch hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

About the Book

Title: A Scheming in Parliament
Series: Of Cloaks & Daggers #2
Author: Erica Vetsch
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Release Date: August 26, 2025
Genre: Regency Mystery Romance

Evil is masquerading in the halls of Parliament, and Sir Bertrand Thorndike is tasked with investigating from the inside. With his new position as a member of the House of Commons, he has access to the power brokers of English government. His tactic is to listen and learn, careful not to reveal his true motives, and he’s quickly inducted into the mysterious Theban Club.

Miss Philippa Cashel’s mission, the Princess Charlotte Eleos School for Women in Need, is thriving with donations, and the students are learning skills to help them earn their livings in honorable ways. But when a dear friend’s past is revealed by blackmail, Philippa must wrestle with the question, Is it ever right to do the wrong thing?

Bertie’s and Philippa’s missions collide when Bertie uncovers a dangerous plot involving vulnerable women. He and Philippa join forces against the corruption threatening to topple England’s government, all while navigating their outward reputations and inward feelings for each other.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Kregel Publications | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BookBub

My Review of A Scheming in Parliament

In A Scheming in Parliament, Erica Vetsch has written a Regency romance with mystery and intrigue that is just as good as, if not better than, all of her other Regency novels! This book is the second in the Of Cloaks and Daggers series, and though you don’t have to read book one first, I highly recommend you do. It’s so good, and it lays the groundwork for the series. 

In A Scheming in Parliament, Sir Bertrand Thorndike has been elected to the House of Commons. It’s something he would have never pursued had it not been for some shady goings on in its chambers. As it turns out, things are much worse than anyone could have imagined. 

There is so much to unpack in this novel, but a major theme runs throughout: “Is it ever right to do the wrong thing?” I found that Vetsch approached this brilliantly. Many instances arise in which this question needs to be broached. 

I adored this page-turning novel and had a very hard time putting it down. It’s just so exciting with its twists and turns, and I loved how everything fell into place. The characters are a well-written, eclectic group, and they are very realistic. Miss Phillipa Cashel created the Princess Charlotte Eleos School for Women in Need so former prostitutes, like herself, could find a way out of that life by learning skills to help them find employment. The school also aims to show the women that God can forgive them and give them a new life in Him. (Side note: If you’re uncomfortable reading about this subject, I suggest you skip this series as much of it revolves around this tragic part of London’s past…if only it were all in the past. It will really, really make you think.) It would take me pages to tell you about all of the characters, so just know Vetsch’s talent for creating detailed, well-developed characters shines.

It would also take me pages and pages to tell you how much I loved A Scheming in Parliament. The slow-burn romance that is developing between Bertie and Phillipa will leave you so ready for the next book in the series! I can’t wait! 5 stars!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

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About the Author

Tour Giveaway

(1) winner will receive a print copy of A Scheming in Parliament and a $20 Amazon gift card!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight September 3, 2025 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on September 10, 2025. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

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