The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels by India Holton

 

Reviewed by Christy

            2020 and 2021 have been difficult years; I don’t think anyone would argue with that. I myself have had to take frequent breaks from the news in an attempt to not let anxiety spiral. Because of this, I think fun escapism in books is more important than ever. And it doesn’t get much more fun than The Wisteria Society for Lady Scoundrels!

            Cecilia Bassingwaite is a proper Victorian lady. She takes care of her aunt, loves to read, and appreciates a good cup of tea. She also happens to be a lady pirate. Her aunt is a member of the Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels, and Cecilia grew up learning to steal and blackmail. She hopes to become an official member of the society one day but her attempts are continually rebuffed for reasons unknown to her. When one of the members sends an assassin after Cecilia, she hopes this will be her foray into the exclusive group. Unfortunately, that assassin is Ned Lightbourne. A very handsome man who is smitten with Cecilia as soon as they meet. Hijinks ensue!

            The Wisteria Society of Lady Scoundrels is laugh-out-loud funny and an all-around delight. The audiobook is fantastic, and the narrator’s delivery made it even funnier. I could feel myself smiling like an idiot while listening because I was just so charmed. If you’ve ever watched an Old Hollywood screwball comedy, this book has the same energy. (With a little magic thrown in!) Because it’s so madcap, it can at times feel a little frenetic. However, the last quarter or so actually starts to feel a little long. But those are really the only negative things I can even think to say about it. It is the perfect anecdote to a long day or too much news watching.

This is the first in the Dangerous Damsels series, the next of which is due out in mid- March 2022. (It’s about witches!) I will be snatching that one up, preferably in audio as well, as soon as I can.