Decadent Dukes Society #1
Historical romance is a genre that I always fall back to when I’m under pressure or stress, and The Most Dangerous Duke in London is a shining example of the genre. Adam Penrose, Duke of Stratton, returns from France seeking to clear his father’s name. In his pursuit, Clara Cheswick, the daughter of the most prominent suspect, catches his attention. At first, Stratton thinks he can use her to get information. Then, he succumbs to her intelligence and strength. Now, he has to convince her to see past their family history.
A brooding Duke with a scandal over his head and the ton fearing his violence? A whip-smart, independent daughter of a lord? Of course, they’re going to make a great pair! He falls first, which is less common in historical romance and a perfect plot device in this story. The Most Dangerous Duke in London is a kitten when he gets caught up with Clara. I did find Adam’s danger to be more reputation than actual viciousness or intent, he didn’t strike me as particularly dangerous at all.
Clara and Adam’s emotional trust is slow to build, but they’re fire together physically. I like how they work towards the same goal but aren’t always transparent with each other. Clara does a great job of leveraging her contacts under the guise of her work. The ton excludes Adam, so he utilizes his friends, the Decadent Dukes, to help him corner people and get the information he needs.
Clara is on the shelf at 26. I’m happy she’s not a debutante, but 26 is still awfully young. I repeatedly forgot she was supposed to be 26; in my head, she was probably closer to 30. I don’t like reading the perspective of a young adult, so I appreciate being able to picture her older. Clara has goals and isn’t willing to buckle under anyone’s authority. Having been privileged enough to be granted independence by her father, I applaud her for being reluctant to marry, even if it’s against societal norms and severely limits what she can do.
The Most Dangerous Duke in London isn’t genre-defying but is an excellent example of a well-written Regency romance. The characters are complex and act within the bounds of the time. The plot moves forward steadily, not fast, but it doesn’t drag.
I always enjoy trilogies or series that focus on a group of friends. I’m excited to visit with Clara and Adam in the following two books!