Sophie Jordan delivers another firecracker of a historical romance with “The Duchess” - a perfect blend of high-drama, razor-sharp wit, untamed desire, and the Real Housewives of the Ton behaving oh-so-scandalously.
 
In Book 1 “The Countess” of The Scandalous Ladies of London series we know being in high society isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. When last we left Valencia in that book, she had become the Dowager Duchess of Dedham after the demise of her wretched husband.
 
“The Duchess” is solely Valencia’s story, and we pick up as she is tipped off a yacht into the Thames and is saved by the grace of some handsome brutes on a barge. (And, of course, one not-so-brutish Welshman.)
 
Such begins Valencia’s journey into love, independence, and unexpected bargains with the arrival of Rhain, the newly minted Duke of Dedham.
 
Rhain is no typical haughty noblemen of the ton. As he moves into Valencia's life with his unwed sisters, gruff exterior, and no-nonsense attitude he upends everything she understands about the world into which she was born and disastrously wed.
 
In typical Sophie Jordan style, the chemistry between these two begins with banter and a battle of wills long before they reach the bedroom. Once they do, it’s time to steam up the windows of that Mayfair manse.
 
Rhain's fish-out-of-water family brings humor and charm, while Valencia’s women friends and frenemies add layers of chaos and community.
 
As the story progresses, Valencia grapples with the choice between freedom, financial stability, emotional nurturing, and the allure of a dangerously seductive Rhain. Her journey of self-discovery and the rekindling of passion is especially poignant after seeing how far she needed to go to heal from the pain of her past.
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Thank you to NetGalley and Avon/Harper Collins Voyager for the Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review. This title will be released on March 26th, 2024.

4.5⭐️

This gives a historical fiction with a FMC that has a progressive mindset. 👌👌

This is everything that I could want.
Strong FMC with a good group of friend (that I want to learn more about)

And the MMC isn’t a domineering butt.

Also the scene in The Palace 😮‍💨😮‍💨 I want more of that.

Vibes: recovery and healing, forced proximity, and female friendship

Heat Index: 4/10

Duchess Valencia is undoubtedly happier now that her abusive husband is dead. But her merry widowhood is interrupted by Rhain, her husband's beefy Welsh successor, whose gruffness hides his immediate attraction to her. Valencia can't continue with her familiar lifestyle without Rhain's support--and he won't offer that support unless she ushers his sisters into society. The more time she spends with Rhain and his family, the more Valencia is tempted by the man. However, after the pain of her first marriage, she dreads letting any man law claim to her again...

There are levels on which this book works for me: it's well-written, it's fast-paced, and it offers a look at the kinds of figures we normally don't see in historical romance. Like Tru before her, Valencia is in her thirties, jaded and experiences. She's not a blushing virgin being romanced by your standard issue rake.

Where I struggle, however, is with this as a romance. A lot of the plot deals more with Valencia's pain and recovery from it (TW: for domestic violence--it's in the past, but it's heavy, and there is also a brief sexual assault in a flashback). Her romance with Rhain feels somewhat more like a subplot, whereas the main plot is her journey--and it's a tough journey. In this sense, it feels more like it's slanting towards women's fiction than historical romance. I'm more used to Sophie Jordan as a very straightforward, frothy, high-heat historical romance author, and while the Scandalous Ladies of London books have been pushed as a heroine-forward series, the summaries then read like historical romance summaries. And I don't know if I'd categorize this as that.

Quick Takes:

--There is something important and empowering about Valencia recovering from what was truly a hideous marriage. I do need to be clear, too--she does find her happiness with Rhain. However, she does spend a lot of this book sad, and I don't know if that's necessarily what I expect from a romance novel. It's not dark; it's highly emotional, but it's not what I would call anywhere near "dark romance". But it's also not anything like the kind of light, frothy, fun historical romance I'm used to reading from Sophie Jordan.

In a lot of ways, I tend to wonder if this could've been fixed by extending the length of the book? I'm used to Sophie writing a short, tight book. She's good at that. However, with subject matter as intense as this, more pages could've potentially been helpful. Not only to balance the intense emotionality of Valencia's recovery a little more; but to devote more time to Valencia and Rhain's romance.

--That being said, I continue to enjoy the uniqueness of the heroines in this series. They aren't your standard historical leads, and their friendships are really real. You feel the sense that the story is totally invested in them, in a way that it perhaps isn't invested in the love story. Which isn't bad! It's a different kind of love story. It just isn't quite what you may expect from a historical romance.

--Rhain is Welsh, and he is sexy, and I did feel echoes of a certain Welsh historical romance hero who's become quite popular... But it isn't quite on that level. I think he could've gotten there! We just didn't have the time between him and Valencia. He's a cute, comforting, kinda gruff dude who clearly loves his sisters and has no idea what to do with them. Which is charming.

The Sex:

This is fairly low heat. I'd say there is one explicit sex scene--well-done, it's Sophie Jordan--and then a smattering of other mentions. I could've used some more.

I think this is perfect for readers who are looking for a more somewhat heavier book focused on female friendships, heroine-forward development, and a lower heat level. For me, I do wonder if it's fully a ROMANCE romance. That doesn't mean it's a bad book, it just means it's a different book than what I expected.

Thanks to Netgalley and Avon for providing me with a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I had high hopes for book two in this series, but was unfortunately disappointed. The first two-thirds of the book dragged on and didn't include as much of Valencia's friend group as I'd hoped. We never get any opportunity to get to know Rhain beyond his stern appearance, and the back story of the old abusive Duke is never really given enough substance to be satisfying (apparently he was great before some mysterious accident and horrible afterwards, but no explanation of the accident is given).

The final third of the book is crammed with Valencia and Rhain suddenly hooking up (and I found their night together really uncomfortable and almost creepy) and a mystery to bring them together. None of it had any reasonable lead in and it just seemed like the author realized she was nearing her final page count and just needed to wrap things up quickly.

However, I am hoping there is a future book that tells more about Valencia's stepmother Hazel because I was really starting to like her by the end.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this in exchange for my unbiased review.

Although the plot of this book was potentially interesting, I struggled a little to get through the story. The writing included so much description and inner monologue, and relatively little actual interaction (conversation, for example) between characters. It’s too bad, because the author gave us so many potentially interesting characters. Any of Rhain’s many sisters, or any of Valencia’s friends could have livened up the writing. Instead, most of the story was shared with the reader by way of Valencia’s inner thoughts. Not very much actually happened until he very end, and the fact that it was a little surprising comes down to the fact that all we ever knew while reading was what Valencia was thinking.

Valencia, the titular dowager duchess, agrees to a bargain with Rhain, the new duke. She will teach his unpolished Welsh sisters to be ladies of the ton in exchange for a larger widow's stipend and a reason to stay in London. Valencia is also ready to enjoy being single after the death of her abusive husband.

While I thoroughly enjoyed Valencia figuring out who she is and what she wants on the other side of her marriage, I wasn't as sold on the romance. We don't get as many scenes of Rhain or of Rhain and Valencia together as I would have liked. I also felt like the suspense plot around her husband's death took a while to get going, and then the book ended pretty abruptly.

I do really like the way Sophie Jordan seems to be using this series to explore the lives of women who are no longer debutantes, who have married cruel men, and, though law and society are not on their side, are forging a path towards happiness anyway. I look forward to seeing more of the side characters we've met so far in the next book.

"Sophie Jordan continues to prove her mastery of storytelling with this highly anticipated release in 2024. The book promises to deliver a whirlwind of emotions, from love and drama to steamy romance, taking readers on an unforgettable emotional rollercoaster ride.

With anticipation running high, readers can expect a gripping narrative that will keep them glued to the pages from start to finish. The promise of a page-turner that never disappoints is certainly enticing, and the suggestion of having tissues at the ready hints at the emotional depth and resonance of the story.

With a perfect score of 10/10, this book is sure to be a standout addition to any reading list for 2024. Sophie Jordan's ability to craft compelling characters and captivating plots ensures that readers will be swept away by the story, making it difficult to put the book down. Get ready for a literary journey that will linger long after the final page is turned."

I really like the idea of this friend group. They are women who have something scandalous in their lives, whether a secret or a past that is just a little unexpected. The first book was fun, but this one didn't land for me. The chemistry between the two was a little short. Their initial love scene was very unexpected. Then the conflict at the end was just too much. It was external (which is good) but was so out of the blue that it was borderline silly.

I was excited to get the chance to read the second book in the Scandalous Ladies of London series and be able to revisit some of the characters from the previous book. It started out well with a slow burn, but towards the very end it felt rushed as if the author needed to hurry and finish the book. I would have enjoyed the story more if the main characters would have gradually showed their feelings towards one another throughout the story, but instead everything is thrown at you past the 70% mark. And the mystery at the end also felt rushed and didn't gel with the overall story. I did enjoy reading about the characters and I do look forward to reading the next in this series. Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this ARC.

This book has a lot of things going for it. It contains romance, twists, villians, hate & love, secrets, uncertainty, spice, and much more. It kept my interest. I'm not one for a spicy plot but this story has a small enough amount to hook those who love it and allow others to quickly skip over it.
It left me wondering how the next novel (if one) will compare.
There is detail to back up any events. It is easy to get into the mind of the protagonists. The story is easy to follow and comprehend.
Thank you to the publisher for the ARC through NetGalley. I have not been compensated for posting my personal thoughts on this title.

The Duchess is the second installment of the Scandalous Ladies of London series. This was my first read of the series, and I was happy that I was able to jump in without having read the first one, however I do plan on going back and reading it.

Valencia is a Dowager Duchess who finds herself at the mercy and kindness of the new heir. Rhain unexpectedly finds himself the heir to a dukedom he doesn’t necessarily want with plans to return to Wales as soon as possible. After initially disliking each other, they strike a bargain which includes Valencia sponsoring his SIX sisters for debut.

Throughout the book, there are dual POVs, as well as “flashbacks” to the year prior providing some mystery to the story.

Overall, I enjoyed the book but some aspects needed something more. This book was a slow burn, which I enjoyed, but I felt the last 10-15% of the book was very rushed. I wished they had fleshed out the characters more so the ending would’ve felt more final. I felt like it was a big leap. The first spicy scene was a little awkward; I would have liked that to play out differently.

I’d say overall, this read is 3.5 stars with light to medium spice towards the end. I would still recommend it and look forward to the next book in the series.

Valencia is thrilled she is out of mourning for her cruel husband. Just when she is about to have fun as a widow, the long lost heir and his sisters show up. Afraid she will be sent from London to rusticate in the country at the Dowager house, she makes a deal with Rhain that she will show his six sisters how to behave in the ton. When sparks fly between them, Valencia and Rhain must decide if it is worth their reputations to start something. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Avon for my honest review.

The latest book in the Scandalous Ladies of London series is here and it picks up where the intrigue from book one left off! While you could potentially read this as a standalone I would highly recommend reading The Countess before this one as it will help with the backstory.

The Duchess is perfect for romance readers who like intrigue and a little suspense thrown in with their romance. This book focuses on Valenia's terrible relationship with her first husband nearly as much as her relationship with the new Duke. While there is romance, Valencia's life and her struggles are the focus of the story.

This book is a quicker read (just over 200 pages) and you notice the brevity in getting to know the side characters. I would have loved to get to know the new duke's family better. However, if you want a fast read that is fun with a lower amount of spice this is the perfect series for you. I am hooked and will be continuing the series when what I am guessing will be called the Marchioness comes out.

Spice rating - two peppers. There is one open-door sex scene and a few kisses.

Valencia is free. Free from her husband, morning and hiding away from society.

If you remember her from the first book, then you already have a look into how her husband was and how he was found dead.

But now, it's truly Valencia's turn to shine. What better way to step back out into society than on her birthday of all days.

Well.... maybe she can shine a little later. First she has to get over the yacht fiasco and then being tossed out of her home. So maybe her birthday wasnt how she expected it to go, but I'm sure she'll be back on top in no time.

It doesnt take long before her friend hear the news and arrive at the house. The way they reacted to the new Dukes sisters and their manners or lack there of. But Val is invited to stay for dinner and so she does and looks her very best at it.

Just when Val thought this was her last night, the Duke offers her a proposal. One she cant really refuse and he is already willing to do and give more than her late husband has. Plus she would get to stay in her home. So Val agrees.

As the story progresses, it gives you everything you've come to expect from a Sophie novel and then some. You will enjoy these characters and getting Val her story and finally a happy ending that she so deserves.

Im so excited I've gotten to read this copy early on as I couldnt wait for more since the last book.

This is a series worth reading as are any and all of Sophies work.

Valencia, the Dowager Duchess of Dedham's year of mourning is over and she wants to get on with her life. Her late husband's heir shows up and throws a wrench into her plans. This book packs a punch in the feels. Join Val as she tries to assist the new Duke's sisters into society. Enjoyed watching Val and the new Duke fight their attraction. This was the romance I needed at the right time. Loved the snippet of Val's not-so-evil stepmother and can't wait for her story.

The Duchess is my first book I’ve read by Sophie Jordan! The story line of the book was good, it was a short read. I think it would have been great to know more about Rhain and Valencia’s backstory as they had different upbringings. It was only shortly mentioned. This would have been great to know as a reader and how and why Rhain was the new heir.

Their relationship(Valencia and Rhain) developed quite quickly. Personally, it would have been nice if their relationship took a bit longer to form so they had more romantic moments together to get to know one another.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the copy to review!

I really love the whole premise/idea for this book. It was one of my most anticipated reads/releases in 2024. I really love Rhain's sisters, they brought me so much laughter. My heart just goes out to Valencia for what she had to endure with her deceased husband.

Sadly, this book just fell short. The story is progressed really really slow and the ending felt really rushed to quickly tied everything up with Valencia and Rhain suddenly confessing their love for each other. I just wished we got more moments of our heroine and hero together alone. Although this book didn't work for me, I am excited to see what comes next in this series. Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for giving an ARC.

I really enjoyed the premise, but wished it was about 1/3 longer. It just felt shorter and more rushed than I would have liked. It felt more similar to a novella rather than novel.

Sophie Jordan’s typical style is here, with several narrators throughout but following a main story. I’ll look forward to Sophie’s next book in the series but I’ll hope the next one is a bit longer or more in depth.

Book Name: The Duchess
Book 2 The Scandalous Ladies of London
Author: Sophie Jordan

ARC
Thank you to Avon and Harper Voyager, Avon, and NetGalley for an ARC of Sophie Lark’s The Duchess

Stars: 4
Spice: 3

Anthology Character Series
Fast Paced
Quick SHORT read
Dual POV
Regency Romance
Bridgerton Vibes

- Thoughts
- Second Chance at Love
- Grumpy MMC
- FMC tragic Backstory
- Close Female Friendships
- Love at First Sight

This scratched the Bridgerton-esque itch and was quick enough to be enjoyed in a single night which made it a fabulous pallet cleanser between the heavy fantasy series I was reading. Overall I feel like this was the right book at the right time scenario as instant love isn't my thing. Also, it was so fast that there was a lack of character development both in the romance and between side characters like Isolde that I wanted to see. However, this book isnt trying to be the next Bridgerton character dive it is a fast-paced regency romp and for what it is I love it.

This book was very interesting. It was a shorter read that was relatively low spice. The characters were okay- the reasons for their friendships or romance felt half hearted or vaguely explained. I love the premise of the book, but the expression of their journey felt more flat.