I had read a novella from this author was a bit excited to get the chance to read a new book.

I liked Jane. She's smart and witty and in a crappy, but normal situation for a woman of that time. Crispin was dark and cocky and easy to like. Especially when he wakes up. And I just I adored their banter together...

...and without that, I started to lose interest. One of the main plot points revolved around politics and that was extraordinarily boring to me. I wanted just the two of them, as much as possible. I did enjoy the conflict and reading them figure things out. I especially loved getting POV from both of them.

Overall, parts of the story were quite dry, but the characters more than made up for it. I'll definitely be looking for other titles.

**Huge thanks to Pocket Books for the invite to read**

Meredith Duran is one of my favorite authors, because her stories are thought-provoking, complex and deeply romantic, and her characters are always finely layered and captivating. A Lady’s Code of Misconduct has all this and more, and you will be enthralled by this emotional story and its hero - Crispin Burke.

Crispin is a jerk, and there is just no other way to describe him. He has lofty political ambitions - he wants to be the Prime Minister - and he is singularly ruthless in his quest to achieve his goals. He masterfully manipulates people for political gain and has earned a reputation for being cold-blooded. Opponents fear him and know to stay out of his way or get trampled in his rise to power, and one of these bystanders caught in his crosshairs is Jane Mason.

Jane’s uncle and guardian is one of Crispin’s closest and most unsavory political allies. He's controlled Jane’s large inheritance since she was orphaned, and he has no desire to let her money go. He’s kept her isolated and under his thumb treating her with disdain. Now he wants her to wed his son in order to permanently claim her fortune, but Jane has had enough and seeks a way out. She must marry to gain control of her money; therefore, she sets out to run away and enter a marriage of convenience but her plans are thwarted. Unfortunately, her failed plans leave her indebted to Crispin, and he seizes the opportunity for his own gain.


Crispin asks Jane to spy on her uncle and bring him information in exchange for his assistance in securing a husband and freedom. Jane fulfills her promise and is waiting for Crispin to deliver on his when he is brutally attacked and seriously injured. He’s in a comma and no one thinks he will survive, but he miraculously does. When he does he wake up, he has no memories of the last few years and he has a wife - Jane.

I do not usually enjoy an amnesia plot, but Ms. Duran crafted a smart and remarkable take on this often overused trope. It is fascinating to see how a man like Crispin will react when his slate is wiped clean and how his relationship with Jane will play out. Politics dominate much of this story and Jane and Crispin’s relationship, and the political issues explored are interesting and adds more depth to A Lady’s Code of Misconduct. This is a historical romance that offers an original story, fascinating characters and an emotional romance, and another testament to Ms. Duran’s exceptional talent. - Harlequin Junkie

That description really doesn’t give you an idea about this book, and I’m not about to take any of the delight in finding out away from you. This is a most unique plot, there is amnesia, bribery, greed and sensual delights. Our heroine, Jane, is an orphan in the care of her greedy, overbearing uncle. She strikes a bargain with a villain, Crispin, and from there uses her wits to outwit those after her fortune. Of course there are twists and turns ahead. We long for some hero redemption and heroine comfort. What we are given is a page turning, can’t-put-it-down story of action and love. The backdrop of political machinations gives this plot a timely appeal.
This book is number five in the series but don’t let that deter you. You can read this as a standalone without any problems. But it will make you want to read more from this wonderful author.
(5-stars)