The Brazen Bluestocking

Will they be able to see beyond their own restraints …

So far, except for a Christmas time novella, I have only read the author’s paranormal stories. So I wondered how she would deal with her usual complex narrative without the supernatural side.
And I am pleased to say, she is still as much talented at telling a classic journey to a more out of this earth one. And there is still some magic left in.
So be prepared to be like Hildie swept from your feet by Tobias’ awesomeness and gentleness.

Tobias and Hildegard are absolutely not common persons, they both pushed away the strictures of their environment as much as they could.
Thus they are kept at arm-length all the while in some way being envied.
Hildie refused to abide to the ton’s rules, nor marry for wealth and maybe an only supposed security. Worth, she now dabs her hands into the trade world, offering her service like any commoner. But the cards she was dealt by life did not leave her any other choice. It is thus or she will loose even what she has not.
Tobias is born from the wrong side of the blanket and worse, from someone with the wrong skin color. Yet it did not impede him once he has set his sight on his goal to become someone to be feared, envied, and sought after but only from the fringes of society. So to put a step into the Beau Monde, he must marry into it.
Why they had to meet, both are a tool in the other’s scheme. Except they never expected the scorching chemistry that ignited from seconds into their first encounter. The Mad Matchmaker and the Rogue King should never be.
And while they fight tooth and claws their attraction, some battles are lost from the beginning.
Yet their bigger struggle is not their insane pull, but their stubborn blindness to what is in front of them. They deny themselves their happiness by fear of what could go wrong instead of what they might miss out on.

But it is no sad angry tale, even if they each vent their ire at time and hurt the other, it is one filled with wits, quips, barbs and love. Love for an urchin, a cat, one’s friends and especially for the person whose mere thought makes the heart beat faster or the mind feel lighter.
Mrs Sumner gifts us with a wondrous and detailed journey from loneliness to love.
5 stars

𝗦𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗺 𝗹𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹 onscreen detailed lovemaking scenes.

I have been granted an advance copy by the publisher, here is my true and unbiased opinion.

Tracy Sumner does not disappoint. Till now, I've read only novellas from her, and I have to say that this full-length novel hits all the marks. Hildy and Tobias are so lovely together. One particular thing about the romance that Tracy writes, is that (I've said it before and I'm saying it again) it reads like a slow dance of seduction. I loved the secondary characters and look forward to their stories!
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange of a honest review.

Happily grinning and writing this review. That's what this book did to me.

Not a big fan of romances where either of the protagonist is engaged to another person, so I was a bit reluctant initially. But this was different and there was no cheating or other woman/ man drama - happy about that. The story and the characters grew on me as I read.

Hildy girl and Toby - loved both of them as well as the other secondary characters.
Eagerly waiting to meet them all in the forthcoming books in the series.

The Brazen Bluestocking is the first in a new series, The Duchess Society, by Tracy Sumner. I loved the banter between Hildy, aka The Mad Matchmaker, and Tobias, aka The Rogue King. Hildy's job is to help make Society matches fairer and more transparent through the detective work of the Duchess Society. She is hired to investigate The Rogue King by his betrothed's father,. The banter between these two while heading toward their happily ever after was the best part of the book.

There are a few mysteries that present themselves that I was disappointed did not have more time on the pages, but this was a fun and easy read.

Such a wonderful romance with a lovely couple. Tobias and Hildy are both unexpectedly lovely and together they are even more so. I loved how they both have their worlds flipped around. I just cannot wait to read more from this new to me author.

Lady Hildegard Templeton, an impoverished Earl’s daughter who's been forced to work to support herself and her aging staff, is co-owner of the Duchess Society. She negotiates marriage contracts that favor women, but when her newest client wants her to reform a rogue into a darling of the ton, she has her work cut out for her. Tobias Streeter, known as the Rogue King, is wealthier than most of the peers of the realm, but what he really wants is to be accepted by them so he can work with a famed architect. When Lady Hildegard approaches him to reform him into an acceptable bridegroom, neither of them expect to have sparks fly between them. Can Hildy keep her professionalism intact while trying to keep her growing passion for Tobias under wraps.

From the first page when Hildy meets Tobias, Ms. Sumner reels the reader in. The interactions between these two are intriguing while each tries to fight their growing attraction to one another. I loved the banter whenever they meet. Tobias was such a noble character under his harsh exterior--a savoir of orphans and stray cats made my heart melt. Both Hildy and Tobias fight their love for each other and I just wanted to shake them both and have them admit they couldn't live without the other. There was a couple of mysteries in the book as well. One was explained well, but I thought the other one involving Tobias was just glossed over. It was a big deal in the story, but pushed to the side with a few sentences at the end. I look forward to reading more stories in the Duchess Society.

Hildy and Toby were a phenomenal couple. I am usually not a fan of a story where one MC is already engaged to someone else but this was resolved relatively early in the book. I loved how Hildy reinvented herself and didn't let society dictate her future. Toby is the kind of hero we love to root for; born into poverty and illegitimate he worked his way to an empire. I loved the way they connected and it was a very satisfying read.

Hildy and Toby's story is sweet, heartbreaking, steamy, and did I mention steamy? They are two people fighting to make their dreams come true. While reaching for their dreams they meet and have to work together, which leads to fireworks... I'm talking New Years Eve in NY fireworks. It is impossible not to fall in love with the characters, even the supporting characters. I loved the hint about the next book in the series and can't wait for Leighton's story. You won't regret reading this book!!

I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Tobias and Hildy are a couple not to be messed with.
A willful bluestocking matches wits with a devilish scoundrel, that she never expected to desire with every beat of her heart.
A defiant society outcast.
A forbidding rogue who doesn’t believe in love, and a passionate wager.
Bastard son of a viscount and king of London’s sordid streets, Tobias Streeter has spent a lifetime building his empire.
Daughter of an earl, Lady Hildegard Templeton hasn’t conformed to what society expects from a woman of her station. Together they make for a witty and complimentary couple. Soon, Tobias and Hildy’s plans are in turmoil as they choose between expectation, passion, and love.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and Netgalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

Thank you to NetGalley and the Wolf Publishing for this advanced readers copy of The Brazen Bluestocking by Tracy Sumner.

Lady Hildegard Tempelton and her Duchess Society are trying to marry woman to husbands that will marry for love or even convenience, as long as both parties are ok with the arrangement.

What Hildy doesn’t expect though, is to be attracted to the next “husband-in-training” for another Lady.

Tobias Streeter is of noble blood, but not respected by the ton. He’s a smuggler and has more money by importing goods from all over the world. But he wants a connection to society, so he must marry for convenience. Lady Mattie wants to become a doctor and prefers the other s3x, so marrying for love is out of the question.

But when Hildy meets Streeter, sparks fly, bad guys come out hiding and Dukes want to fight.

Loved it! Can’t wait for book 2!!

The first book after the prequel, THE ICE PRINCESS.
Lady Hildegard Templeton takes her job working for the Duchess Society seriously. No clients, no money. Known as the Mad Matchmaker, her current job is to "mold a man into more manageable clay." to be accepted into society. Tobias Streeter is the Rogue King of Limehouse. The illegitimate son of a Viscount and a Romani mother, he wants credibility by marrying the Earl of Hastings' oldest daughter, Lady Matilda, Matty wants her freedom to pursue medicine. Hildy wants to know why he wants credibility. Tobis is already rich and controls part of London. From the first time Hildy meets Tobias, the pull of their attraction is breathless and cannot be ignored. Tobias has to be the one to make changes to make him happy. To be happy he needs Hildy in his life. Tobias is a strong, soft hearted hero, much more than what he shows on the surface. Excellent read, excellent series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.

This is my second book of this Series, the first being the Prequel. I loved the Prequel, and I loved this book, as it has two very strong, determined and damaged main characters who have chemistry off the charts, and are both determined not to find love. I can't wait to read the other books in the Series. 4-1/2 hot stars.

Thank you Wolf Publishing and NetGalley for allowing .e to read and review this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was my second book by Tracy Sumner (with my first being the prequel novella ARC that I reviewed). I am always excited when a historical romance leaves the ballroom and mostly takes place in a rookery. Something about a Peaky Blinder-esque hero makes me swoon immediately.

Lady Hildy is one of the cofounders of The Duchess Society; matchmakers for the ton. Hildy is a bit on the shelf and known as the "mad matchmaker" for her fearlessness when it comes to making matches. She is hired to finalize a marriage of convenience between an aspiring female doctor, Matilda, and the illegitimate son of an earl and king of the rookery, Tobias. When Hildy and Tobias meet for the first time there is an instant connection. They must decide if they are going to give in to the attraction or use the marriage of convenience to propel Tobias, Hildy, and Matilda's lives toward their dreams and goals.

If you are like me, you like your hero's totally enamored with the heroine from the start. I loved the chemistry between them. Both Hildy and Matilda are such strong feminist females and I'm here for it. The supporting characters were so encouraging of the relationship and that was refreshing. Not many books become a reread for me, but I can absolutely see myself reading this book again. I look forward to the other books coming in this series.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Wolf Publishing, and Tracy Sumner for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinions.

A fun romp between an eccentric matchmaker and a self-made man who have an undeniable attraction despite his being betrothed to another woman. After a twisty plot with plenty of steam, a HEA! Ahhh.

Holy cow! This book took me by surprise and blew me away. I was hooked the moment I met Tobias Streeter in all his dark and handsome glory. I always ruin books if I delve into the plot in a review, so I will try not to get into it too deep!

Lady Hildegard Templeton (more enduringly known as Hildie) and her friend run the Duchess Society, where they help women who are different in society secure a match that is worthy of their station and what they seek in a husband.
Hildie's latest client involves rounding off the rough edges of smuggling king Tobias Streeter for his upcoming advantageous (on both sides) marriage. When Hildie and Tobias do meet though they are both aware of the charge in the air between them and the immediate pull they have to each other. The use of intellectual flirting between them builds throughout the book and brings on the slow burn that I love.

"Hildy found it hard to believe that the man standing before her would be married in four short weeks to a woman who hadn't the desire to shove him back against his desk and kiss the breath from him.
A woman who would never have the desire.
When Hildy was burning up from the inside without it."

When Tobias started called her "Hildie Girl," I was just a puddle on the floor. This man has so many depths that Hildie is privy to: his love of A Midsummer Night's Dream, his passion for architecture, his taking in of an orphan boy and cats.

I loved the tightly woven plot of this book and its love story. I have never read a Tracy Sumner historical romance and have immediately started the prequel to this book, The Ice Duchess. I loved every minute of reading this book and it is just the first of her new series, The Duchess Society, I am anxiously awaiting the second book, The Scandalous Vixen, that is slated for December 2021.

Thank you to Netgalley and WOLF Publishing for an ARC copy of this book. All of the above opinions are of my own. Any quotes taken from this ARC are subject to change.

What an a great HEA. Hildy and Tobias love story is one filled with angst and commitment. Hildy a lady that is living life on her terms meets a rogue that wants to take on life on his terms. Their love story was one of growth, understanding, and passion. At the end, they work together to find their way to love each other.
I was so engrossed in this book that I could not put it down, that hasn’t happened to me in a while.

Daughter of an earl, Lady Hildegard Templeton will not conform to what society expects from her. Industrious and unique, Hildegard along with her friend Georgiana the Duchess of Markham have created an organisation for women who need help navigating the marriage mart. The Duchess Society makes sure that women have some say in who they marry and what to expect when they are married. Hildegard vows to marry for love. Although the emotion has never shown itself to her. Until she meets him.

Bastard son of a viscount and king of London’s sordid streets, Tobias Streeter has spent a lifetime building his empire. But what he wants more than anything is to become an architect and to do that he needs the Duchess Society to find him a suitable wife. A wife to elevate his worth in society’s eyes. He doesn’t have time for love and is he’ll bent on proving his worth to his father. Until he meets her.

Soon, Tobias and Hildy’s plans are in turmoil as they choose between expectation, passion, and love.

Another great story by Tracy Sumner. I loved every thing about this book. A strong female character who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go after it. A strong male character with a softer side that isn’t afraid to show it. There was plenty of romance and banter in this book that kept you turning the pages. The story itself was well written and original. A fantastic start to the series can’t wait for book two.

I received "The Brazen Bluestocking" from Netgalley and voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Tracy Sumner is a wonderful author, and she never fails to amaze me with her beautiful stories. This is the first book in her new The Duchess Society series. Hildegard Templeton, aka Hildy, The Mad Matchmaker, is investigating Tobias Streeter, as a potential son in law for an Earl's daughter, Maddie, who only wants to be wed so she can pursue her medical interests. Problems arise when Toby and Hildy have an almost instantaneous but inconvenient attraction. Hildy's job is to investigate Toby, not be attracted to him to distraction. Toby wants to marry into the upper echelons of society so his architectural designs are reviewed and recognized. An absolutely riveting story full of wit, magnetism and major hotness. A lovely romantic story.

The Brazen Bluestocking by Tracy Sumner
The Duchess Society #1

Delightful from beginning to end!

What I liked:
* Hildegard “Hildy” Templeton: “on the shelf”, spinster, runs a matchmaking business with her friend, softhearted, alone, responsible for moldering home and aging employees, feisty, outspoken, good friend, I really liked her.
* Tobias “Toby” Streeter: self-made man, war hero, whisky maker, architect, takes care of many, born out of wedlock, wealthy, giving, intriguing, I really liked him.
* Getting to see Dex and Georgie from the prequel
* Learning about the rough work done by youth who tarred ropes – Nigel was a sweetheart and I am so glad Tobias took him in.
* The cat…what a fun part of the story.
* Xander Macauley: lifelong friend and partner to Tobias, good man, would love to see him in a book of his own.
* Matilda Delacour-Baynham “Mattie”: a woman that didn’t fit into the social role she was expected to, focused on her dream of being a doctor, landed well when she befriended Tobias.
* The excellent writing and how it drew me in, kept my attention, made me care and eager to keep reading.
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* The painful parts of both Tobias’s and Hildy’s backstories – their fathers were both despicable
* Everything I was meant not to like
* Having to say goodbye to the people I felt I had become friends with.

Did I enjoy this book? Yes
Would I read more in this series? Definitely

Thank you to NetGalley, Book Sirens, and Wolf Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

I thought I loved the prequel to this series but it had nothing on this book. If you love banter, this is the book for you. I absolutely loved Hildy and her relationship with Tobias. Her cunning and ability to think her way through problems were great. But their love story was just magic. I love that we got to see more of Georgie and her duke too.

This tale fairly hummed!

If you love that bad boy with heart of gold meets the woman who stops him in his tracks trope, as much as I do, this read is for you!
Lady Hildegard Templeton and her partner Georgiana, the Duchess of Markham are matchmakers for those who need guidance through the pitfalls of society as they move to secure a partner.
Hildy, almost destitute with a decaying mansion and an equally as crumbling “cadre of servants” to support has taken up this occupation, soiling her hands to many as one in ‘trade.’ Given the cut direct even! She’s known as the ‘Mad Matchmaker.’
Their business, the Duchess Society, has been approached by the Earl of Hastings to facilitate the marriage between his daughter and Tobias Streeter, shipping magnate amongst other things and known as the Rogue King of Limehouse Basin, in a way that’s acceptable to society. Once that’s done and dusted the Duchess Society will be employed to assist Hasting’s five other daughters thread the path of high society. The smell of success is being dangled before Hildy’s nose.
Here’s the thing the Earl’s daughter, Lady Matilda Delacour-Baynham, is mad keen to be a doctor. She already works in the slum areas learning as much as she can. Mattie wants a husband who will leave her free to pursue her passion. And here’s the other thing, Mattie’s not actually drawn to men. A marriage of convenience will suit the almost courting couple.
Tobias has a Romani background and is the illegitimate son of an Earl. An Earl who’s never acknowledged him. Toby is now very wealthy, lives in the Limestone Basin Lock area, and still keeps a hand in with his smuggling concerns, although most of his business is now legitimate. He cares for the well being of those in his area, and has a young boy and a couple of cats sharing his quarters. (But that’s not all—Tobias has fascinating depths, including a love of architecture, that Hildy will unravel them one by one.)
Hildy’s task is to bring Tobias up to scratch as a courting swain, following society’s rules. Now there’s the challenge!
The thing is when they meet the air simply becomes incandescent. The hair on the back of my neck stood on end! And when Hildy’s eyes “so… blue they hurt” meet Streeter’s “sea-green gaze”. Omph! The strength of their eye encounter is physical.
There’s so much happening in this story that gives it interest and depth. Summer’s writing is tight, descriptive and enchantingly explosive
Yes there’s lot of heavy breathing, heaps of “Oh My’s” and I loved every word!
A splendid beginning to the series, I can hardly wait for what is to follow!

A WOLF Publishing ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

The Brazen Bluestocking
The Duchess Society Series, Book One
by Tracy Sumner

The impoverished LadyHildie Templeton aka The Mad Matchmaker and Mr Tobias Streeter aka The Rogue King of the East End. A blue blood from the wrong side of the blanket but exceedingly rich . She is trying to make him presentable to marry the daughter of an Earl as a marriage of convenience, for them both, but fate has other plans .

Follow the dramas trials humour and fantastic characters written by this superb author.
Fantastically well written book. Not to be missed .

I will be looking forward to the next in the series.

I read this as an ARC through NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Book one in this new series The Duchess Society centers around Lady Hildegarde Templeton the Principal owner of The Duchess Society, a service engaged by young women to help negotiate their marriage settlements in order to ensure they are well provided for. Laws in the Regency era being what they were, a generous marriage settlement, with an ironclad contract, was about the only protection a girl could expect once she married.

Lady Hildegarde has never married, herself, but she inherited the only unentailed property in her family after the death of her father and brother, a large house with elderly dependents and no income to sustain it. Thus, she now works to help other young women not end up in the same position in matrimony and to keep a roof over everyone’s head who depends on her.

Her present client, Lady Matilda, is the daughter of the Earl of Hastings. She is of a very unconventional bent, like most of The Duchess Society’s clients. Matilda wants to be a doctor, though it’s not allowed, and is actively studying medicine, delivering babies and helping poor people who can otherwise not afford medical care. She is betrothed to Tobias Streeter, the Rogue King of Limehouse Basin a smuggler who has made good and now does mostly legitimate business in Limehouse. But he is the illegitimate son of a nobleman on one side and a gypsy on the other and is not what the Ton will accept. However, Matilda’s family desperately needs the money after her father gambled it away. And she has four more sisters behind her, all who will become Duchess Society clients in turn, should Hildegarde be able to make Mr. Streeter presentable enough to the Ton in the four weeks leading to the wedding.

Hildegard can’t afford to fail, but when she arrives on Mr. Streeter’s doorstep in the nicest and best-built warehouse in Limehouse, she realizes she has greatly underestimated the man. He’s cultured, intelligent and has collected a found family including a best friend/brother/business partner, an 11 year-old orphan boy and a pregnant cat. He’s improved the neighborhood for the people who live there, caring for workers, orphans and making sure the streets are safer. He genuinely likes and admires his bride-to-be, though both admit to not being in love with each other. It’s a business arrangement that will gain him entre into Ton society to allow him to realize his ambitions and he will allow Maddy to continue her medical pursuits without interference as he approves of them. Sadly, he’s also the most attractive man Hildegard has ever seen. And he is as attracted to her.

How they handle it, while she attempts to make him presentable for society, is the book, which I’m not going to spoil. But it’s interesting how they start off in an adversarial position and soon begin to respect and genuinely like each other, while realizing they’d both underestimated the other at first.

However, it’s the many side characters make it a lived-in and interesting world. These side characters are not just window-dressing. They appear to have interesting inner lives, themselves, even if you hear of them only peripherally. While the POV is tight on Hildy and Tobias, their friends, families, enemies and clients all make an impact and help move the plot.

I don’t want to spoil too much because the ride is fun and unexpected. There are plot elements of danger, hurt/comfort, angst, quite a bit of explicit sex and a lot of smart conversations among interesting people. I found this a very satisfying book on all levels. I think most people would.

This book continues the theme from another series of the Duchess Club, whereupon young women are taught the skills that they need to become a Duchess, that are not taught at home. The skills are added to by the Club undertaking investigations into the proposed partners, especially the husband-to-be; negotiating a satisfactory contract that enables the women involved to have an independent life is they wish; ensuring that the women are prepared for marital 'relations' and wish for them to occur; and other elements of marriage as needed.
This is the first book of the new series and is very encouraging.
It is of a good length such that the story and characters can be explored in enough depth; and the storyline can have numerous sub-plots and information about Society and Trade in the era.
Here we read about the trade of Chimney Sweep boys and the attempts to regulate it and swap young boys for mechanical devices. the way that this was argued against and the way the young boys were treated - we also find our something about the Tarring sheds for rope to be used on sheds. So quite a lot about how young children were employed in industry.
I always think that exploring these elements of the Society at the time of the storyline adds to the understanding of the background to the characters and the world that they inhabit.
Tracy always has a good style and her novels are well written.

Beautifully complex love story!

Hildy may be the daughter of an earl, but her inheritance left her with more obligations than funds. She relies on the income from the Duchess Society, a marriage-contract service she runs with her best friend, Georgie (from The Ice Duchess). Part matchmakers, part pre-nup negotiators, she's determined to make sure that the young women of Society are financially protected before they enter into advantageously-arranged marriages.

Her current client is Mattie, a young woman who wants nothing more than to live her own life, pursuing her medical career and being free to love who she wants, which will never be a man. She's arranged with Tobias, an extremely wealthy but unconnected commoner, to enter into a marriage of convenience that grants him status while securing her freedom. Theirs is a solid friendship, and Hildy is tasked with helping Tobias assimilate into Polite Society in the weeks before the wedding.

The sparks inconveniently fly between Tobias and Hildy right from the moment they meet. Her financial stability and his future career plans both depend on his marriage to Mattie taking place, so they both are troubled by their undeniable chemistry and what it's going to cost them to pursue any type of relationship.

The complex storyline includes an attempted murder, a kidnapping, and a widely-known secret about one's connection to a title before arriving at the delightful and well-earned HEA. Every part of the story was intriguing and fun to read, but the absolute best part of this book is the exquisite writing style that brilliantly brings their scintillating attraction to life. This author is an accomplished wordsmith, inventing phrases and descriptions that took my breath away. I devoured this book in one afternoon and I could not have loved it more. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

This was a well-written, entertaining book. It held my interest and moved quickly. Hildy and Tobias are drawn to each other against their better judgment and despite the plans and expectations they have. The story was sweet, sexy and fun. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more standalone books in this series.

Totally enjoyed this book!
Great storyline, in-depth characters, and strong writing. I was hooked from the very first page.
I did read The Ice Duchess prequel to this series and really loved the sweet romance in it. This story takes it up a notch with Hildy and Tobias. I really loved the character of Tobias and thought he was really well done and presented in a good way. Being Romani and a bit of a rogue, I have witnessed other authors taking this combination and dragging them through the mud then presenting them as a hero. Tracy Sumner from the start portrays Tobias in a very respectable way given his background which made me like him even more.
As with The Ice Duchess, I found the style of grammar and "speak" that the author uses a bit confusing at times, it doesn't seem to flow well. Several times I had to go back and re-read what was said and then try to put the picture together. But this did not detract in any way from my enjoyment of the book as I felt this story was so strong and the plot so good.
I would highly recommend this book and urge readers to also read the prequel book as well.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley.

The Duchess Society is back! Now it is Hildegard (Hildy)'s turn to see if romance is in her future.

The daughter of an Earl who left her in a financially precarious situation when both he and his only son died, Hildy started a business with Georgie to assist women with marriage in the Ton.

The bastard son of a Viscount and a common woman, Tobias Streeter has had to build his fortune the old fashion way, earn, steal, cheat. Now, he wants to work with a premier architect and the only way to accomplish this, in his eyes, is to become part of society.

When Hildy and Tobias' worlds collide - it is an explosion of passion and hot tempers.

What a great book - the pictures painted of the background are wonderful. Sumner really can tell a story. I look forward to the next two installments!

The Brazen Bluestocking is a a regency romance gem. I was very much intrigued by the premise of the book and was quickly drawn into the story.

The Mad Matchmaker a.k.a Hildy, is bold, outspoken and determined to make her way in the world and will let nothing stop her. She is a breath of fresh air and so very different from the typical regency romance heroine. Tobias a.k.a The Rogue King, is all kinds of sexy goodness and the perfect match for the Matchmaker.

This story kept me glued to my kindle - it had everything - an amazing storyline, romance, and a touch of both intrigue and suspense. The Brazen Bluestocking is a great way to start this new series and has me looking forward to the rest of the books in The Duchess Society series. I’m giving Tracy Sumner’s The Brazen Bluestocking the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!

Lady Hildegard Templeton is not your typical society miss, despite being the daughter of an earl. She has created an organization for women on the cusp of marriage called The Duchess Society. Determined to only marry for love, if not at all, she is completely thrown when she meets Tobias Streeter. Tobias is the bastard son of a viscount and king of London’s sordid streets, who has amassed a fortune. However he turns to the Duchess Society when he decides he needs to find a suitable wife, who will make him worthy to society. Yet he too, is conflicted when he meets Hildy.
The spark between them was well told through their flirting and engaging conversations. Whilst their fought their attraction to each other, their feelings were clearly evident. This is a great start to a new series, with two headstrong and dynamic characters.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

Another delightful book by Tracy Sumner. I chose this book and the prequel on NetGalley on a whim and am very glad I did. While I didn’t like this one as much as the prequel, I still enjoyed it an absurd amount.

This book follows Hildy, a peer’s daughter who is working as a matchmaker for eligible young ladies of the ton. She’s been hired to bring Tobias up to scratch so he can marry the daughter of an Earl. Of course sparks fly between Hildy and Tobias and the two fall hard for each other.

I really liked Hildy. She is strong, independent, and doesn’t care what others think. I also liked that while she is alone in terms of biological family, she has a large caring found family that cares deeply for her. I also really enjoyed Toby. He cares deeply for HIldy and from the first time they meet he starts listening to her. Together they were electric and were just fun to read.

I will keep an eye out for the next book in the series. Thank you to NetGalley and WOLF Publishing for the ARC.


Bookstagram post coming September 27

I was hooked from the start. Tracy Sumner’s incredibly descriptive style helps the characters to leap of the page and into your heart. I found I could not put it down and when I had to, my mind was still consumed with Hildy & Toby’s tale. Not only do you fall in love with our Hero & Heroine but her attention to detail leaves each character feeling like friends and family, from Mac to Nigel all the way down to Nick Bottom. The story gave me chills, goosebumps… feeling every feel right along with our couple.

Hildegard the Mad Matchmaker is hired to investigate Tobias for a marriage match. While investigating Tobias she discovers there is more to him then you see, and she likes him. That is where things gets interesting.
Good slow romance. like the characters,dialogue in all a great story.
Enjoyed the story.
Voluntarily reviewed.

4.5 stars - Sexy, sassy, and fun, I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Brazen Bluestocking. This author is new to me, and already a favorite book can’t wait to read more from her.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Bold, Brazen, and Utterly Bewitched

Hildegard "Hildy" Templeton is a brazen bluestocking who has sworn off men and marriage and, as she tells the story's villain at one point, you'd best not forget it.

Yet somehow stubborn, spinsterish (and excessively beautiful) Hildy winds up in a very steamy entanglement with a very wrong man--wrong in as many ways as you can think of: Tobias "Toby" Streeter is her client, he's a rough street rogue who is essentially her opposite, he's a "lowborn" titan of illegal industry, and he's engaged to be married in three weeks. An arrangement which could not have come about without the assistance of Hildy's Duchess Society, which helps noblewomen find truly suitable husbands who will allow them their independence.

Of course, the fact that Tobias is scheduled to marry a lady who prefers women and is only marrying him so that she can pursue her own vocational endeavors means there is no uncomfortable love triangle in the story and absolutely no cheating as such (and I have a low tolerance for it).

What there is, is a lovely amount of steamy scenes, many well-written turns of phrase ("He wanted to uncover her secrets in the hazy twilight, in a bed they creatively destroyed with their passion.") and a great deal of banter between the heroine and hero, culminating in a deliciously fun story that ends on a high-note of drama with the kind of villains I like the best: the redeemable and accidentally comical.

Steam Level: Steamy

This book was one of a series, and it very lightly mentions that. The story is definitely a stand alone book, but there are some minor references to the "Duchess Society" that the hero runs with her friends. The hero is almost like a matchmaker, but more of a negotiator between one of her students and prospective grooms. She does minor investigations of the background of the students, and then let's the future grooms know her findings and whether they are acceptable or not. Her most recent class has a student who had decided to marry a man who is not an aristocrat, but actually the bastard son of one with a gypsy or Romany mother. He was raised in the slums, but speaks better English and is educated. He has built up a huge shipping business and is one of the richest men in London. The heroine's student wants to marry him for strange reasons, one being she wants to be able to use her doctorng skills to help the poor.and he doesn't have a problem with that. He is even willing to be the money behind her practise. One thing, though. Someone is trying to kill the hero. He is a marked man where ever he goes and the heroine sees him shot almost in front of her.
This story needs to be read word for word and while it is well written, I felt I had to give it a concentrated effort. The book is almost over filled with descriptive commentary on, the settings, the sounds, the clothes, the people around them, the buildings, the rooms. It is just very descriptive in setting the mood of the scene. And the heroine seems a little abrupt for me. I would think someone. In her position would be a little more agreeable since she is a negotiator. I still gave it 5 stars and recommend d reading. It was enjoyable and took me away.

This is Hildy and Tobias’ story. He is a nobleman’s bastard. Her father was an earl. When her father and brother died she was left with a townhouse and servants to pay for. She opens a matchmaking service with her friend to earn money. She will bring any bachelor up to scratch. She tries to make Tobias into a gentleman for a nobleman’s daughter. Hildy and Tobias fall in love. He is rich and takes care of many people. It takes a lot work for them to be together. There are a few surprises. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.

Tobias Streeter was born as they say on the wrong side of the blanket. His blue blooded father never gave a thought of him, which is why he has made his fortune in his various enterprises. Now his only dream is to work as a architect for Mr. Nash, but he needs to have the Ton support. Making a deal to marry Lady Mathilda who wants only freedom to pursue her own dreams will hopefully get her father’s support and entry into the Ton, The Earl of Hastings hires Hildegard Templeton of the Duchess Society to oversee the engagement, which means turning Tobias, the Rogue King of Limehouse Basin into a gentleman. Where there is nothing between Tobias and Mattie, the sparks fly between Hildy and Tobias, but it’s business and nothing can happen between them or can it?
This is the first book of the Duchess Society, was a slow builder but stick with it. Well worth the read.
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC. I am voluntarily posting an honest review after reading an Advance Reader Copy of this story.

Lady Hildegard Templeton has no plans to marry. A bluestocking, she supports herself by putting her organizational talents to use for the Duchess Society. She is known as the Mad Matchmaker helping arrange marriages for over looked members of the ton. Her latest task is to civilize Tobias Street to marry the daughter of an earl His mother was Romni and he is the illegitimate son of a viscount. His intended wants her independence to learn to practice medicine. He has plenty of money but wants the respectability the marriage would bring. Only one problem. Sparks, heat and attraction flare every time Hildy and Toby are together.

This is a fun historical romance with a modern feel. Hildy is self supporting but because of her title seems to be accepted in society (which realistically might not happen). I like that she rescues herself and owns her feelings in a positive way. Toby is a sweetheart in spite of his outward appearances. I am new to the author, Tracy Sumner and this is the first in a new series. After finishing this book I learned there is a prequel, The Ice Duchess. It only took me minutes to download it and add it to my reading pile. Thank you to NetGalley, the author, Wolf Publishing and BookBuzz for an ARC ebook in exchange for an honest review. (4.5 stars)

It has been a long time since I encountered two smart main characters who know what they want and are not afraid to go after it.
The Mad Matchmaker is actually a lady that wants a job so she can help those that have stayed with her during the worst times of her life and live a comfortable life. She does this by "working" and getting the cut direct from society. She is hired by a Lord to marry his 5 daughters to noble peers of society. But one of them, who wants to be a doctor, will marry the Rogue King.
The Rogue King is no other than the most feared and renowned man that Hildy has met, ever, in her life. He is half Romani and the bastard son of an Earl. He started in the gutters and pulled himself up to one of the most influential exporters/importers of England.

I love the fact that for Toby, it was love at first sight, even do he didn't want to knowledge the sentiment. For Hildy, it was all about getting the job done until he started to weave himself in her heart slowly. Towards the end, they were both hard-headed and were afraid. For the role of the secondary characters, I felt that they were well portrait and they didn't take the spotlight from the couple. They added a nice volume to the storyline and left it open for other possible books.

Can't wait for the upcoming books! I will be looking forward to them and also be looking at other novels by Tracy Summer.

Excellent writing, Strong characters; Delightful supporting cast! Heartwarming and funny and pulls This is book 1 of a new historical romance series.

I have loved all of Tracy Sumner’s books and this one is no exception! There are wonderful characters that you can’t help falling in love with. I really enjoyed the relationship between Hildy and Tobias and the love scenes were great! My only negative was the book seemed to drag through the middle as if it were a bit too long. 4 stars.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story by a new to me author. I did find the writing style a bit florid but I was engrossed in the character and story development. There was a fantastic cast of characters: from the poor aristocratic Hildy who had to WORK – gasp! - for a living; to the rags to riches, mixed blood, Tobias, who hid a generous heart; to even Matilda the fiancé doctor; and Mac, Tobias’ best friend. There was some steam, a bit of a mystery that solved with an interesting twist and of course a HEA. Can’t wait for the next in this series!

I loved this book! The heroine was so engaging and Streeter, the Rogue King had so much depth to his character, not the usual gorgeous, over the top sexy, but he had a brain! That makes heroes so much more attractive. The story was fantastic, and didn't draw out the conflict to the point of being annoying. I can't wait for the next book.

The Brazen Bluestocking is the first (after the prequel "The Ice Princess") in the series. After Lady Hildegard's father and brother have died she is left with a large townhouse badly in need of repair and all the older servants to care for with little funds to accomplish everything. Hildy's father was not a role model for being a loving caring man, so Hildy has no desire to ever marry unless it is for love. Needing money she has to get a job. With the help from her best friend Georgiana and newly married Duchess of Markham they start the "The Duchess Society" to help woman have some say in the marriage. Hildy is tasked with getting Tobias ready and "ton" acceptable for a bride that wants to be a doctor and also happens to be gay, also not "ton" acceptable. As Hildy goes to work she and Tobias are aware of the spark between them. How will Hildy and Tobias manage to meet their obligations. The story is entertaining and a nice change from the focus on all the balls.

Great book, what else can I say.

An impoverished Earl's daughter, Hildegard, who makes a living by starting a business where she helps fathers market their unmarried daughters. That's how she gets to know Tobias Street. He is a bastard child of a viscount and has built his fortune on his own. Richer than most nobility but still not accepted by the Ton. He wants to get married within the Ton in order to achieve his stated goals. He never expected to seduce Hilly as his goal.
The woman Toby had chosen only wanted to be free to practice her profession, that of a doctor. And as Toby learns more about etiquette in the Ton, a cat and mouse game ensues where Toby is progressive in what he wants and Hilly sticks to the standards she has. Slowly but surely more is at stake for both; their heart!

A beautifully written story with many moments where you have to laugh at the situations. But also accurately reflecting the time in which it takes place, the norms and values ​​that women must adhere to. The woman who should only want one thing and that is a good marriage. .
Thanks for providing an ARC by NetGalley. My review was given voluntarily

Thanks to Netgalley, the publishers and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Sparkling dialogue, empathetic storytelling and plenty of heat make this story one of the author's best. Hildy is a determined heroine and the first time she meets Tobias she is determined to find out more about him. Especially if she is to ensure he is a good prospect for his new fiance.

But during the vetting process Hildy finds she likes the tattooed and mysterious businessman, perhaps a little too much for objectivity. And he is immediately spellbound by her.

It's a lot of fun, there's plenty of humour and a little bit of angst - just the right amount I think.

I'm looking forward to the next instalment.

The Brazen Bluestocking is book 1 of the Duchess society series by Tracy Sumner and follows the Ice Duchess prequel. Tobias Streeter, the Rogue King has engineered a match between himself and one of his partners that should guarantee him entrance into high society where he believes he needs to be to pursue his dearest wish. Enters Lady Hildegard Templeton, the daughter of an earl from the Duchess Society an organization for women on the cusp of marriage, that seeks to have young ladies enter the state of matrimony with their eyes wide open causing her to be named “the mad matchmaker”.

This book quickly becomes a delightful read as it becomes quite clear that sparks fly immediately for the self-chosen spinster and the handsome, sexy, self-made man. For me the book, proved to have a slow start as at its beginning chapters the author focused too much on pedantic details and needless banter between Hildy and Tobias but later picks up, hence only 4 stars. Upon reading further, the mystery that is the Rogue King becomes a challenge for Hildy, the readers also want to understand why Tobias wants so badly into this world that not only shuns bastards, but also those of the working class.

The more Hildy finds out about Tobias the man, the more she realizes that she doesn’t see how she is going to be able to not only groom him for another woman, let alone let him go. The more Tobias discovers and understands Hildy the more he questions if revenge and throwing the middle finger in his sires’ face, is truly worth his ultimate happiness. One wants to get to the juicy parts and to the end to see how it all work itself out. It ends in a swoon worthy finale that leaves one loving another amazing read by Tracy Summer which leaves one longing to read about the remaining characters of the Duchess Society. My review was given on the ARC copy received from the Publisher via NetGalley in return for my honest opinion.

Oh my goodness, I believe I have found another favorite author! Tracy Sumner delivered and delivered well in this tale! Excellent writing, Strong characters; Delightful supporting cast! Heartwarming and funny and pulls at your heartstrings. Truly a great read by a new favorite author.

Daughter of an earl, Lady Hildegard Templeton hasn’t conformed to what society expects from a woman of her station. Industrious and unique, she’s created an emboldened organization for women on the cusp of marriage, When I started reading I couldn't put it down. Tracy Sumner is magnifysent and amazing writer.I cannot wait to read more of there books.Keep up the great work.You should definitely read this books.Can't wait for the next book

I received a preview copy of this from NetGalley and this is my freely given review.

I had a hard time getting into this book, the second installment of the Duchess Society. The prose, imagery, and dialogue seemed enjoyable, but I could not see the chemistry between Tobias and Hildy initially. Yes, there was the attraction between two attractive people, but there did not seem to be deeper connection - between the two, or between myself as the reader, and the two protagonists. But then they both grew on me and I grew to enjoy their story more.

Hildegarde Templeton is the second member of the Duchess Society, and the daughter of an Earl, but with a spotty reputation and disregarded by the Ton for multiple issues. First being that she does not wish to marry (rejecting two proposals), engages in an enterprise - given the sobriquet the Mad Matchmaker, and is the daughter of an Earl who was ill-regarded for his lack of temper, and poor management of his estate. She also is poor, since her father left a poor estate, and her brother died, before being able to improve it, and without settling her other than with a crumbling townhouse and elderly servants whom she feels obligated to maintain. She appears to have some PTSD from her family issues too. So she, and her friend, the Duchess of Markham (from the Ice Duchess), set up the Duchess Society; an enterprise that is seen as a matchmaking service, but which they strive to be more. Namely, it sounds to be an enterprise that tries to set up good matches, and protect the interests of the vulnerable women involved.

Tobias Streeter is a man born on the wrong side of the blanket to a Rom mother and a member of the peerage who essentially abandoned them. He lost his mother as a child, and joined the Navy as a youth, fighting in India, and developing connections that helped him develop a smuggling business that he and his partner grew into a wealthy legitimate enterprise, including distillation, legitimate shipping. He hopes to develop it further to include his passion of architecture, and to work with John Nash on a project. However, he does not have the connections and the formal education, though he does have the capability and talent. He is hoping to foster the connections through a marriage of convenience to Matilda, the eldest daughter of the Earl of Hastings.

Hildy is hired by Hastings to polish Tobias up and manage the wedding of the two. Tobias is hoping that the marriage will improve his chances of having his application for an architectural design be accepted so he can work with Nash, and Matilda is hoping that the marriage will give her some freedom to pursue her passion of studying and practicing medicine. They both are entering this marriage as a practical business arrangement.

However, Hildy and Tobias end up not being able to deny their attractions, despite the conflict with their plans and her business. There is some conflict with his disdainful feelings about the Peerage, especially being raised a half-Rom bastard, despite needing some acceptance to push ahead with his ambitions. Also, he has issues himself with PTSD from his time during conflicts in India, that pop up at times. Add onto that, the fact that he has enemies that appear to want to do him harm. But despite all this, Hildy manages to uncover the fact that he does have a marshmallow-soft heart inside the crusty exterior. He is a man who protects the poor, works to try to ensure they have food, protects the kids from workhouses, and gives a pregnant cat a home - and all this just makes her tumble hard for him.

There were some things that were given short shrift I felt, in this story. I felt that more could have been touched on about Hildy and her own abuse PTSD about her father, especially with his history about violence and India. There could have been more done with that. Also the bit about an attack on Tobias and who was involved was a useful device to give Hildy and him time together, but seemed to be tossed aside and ultimately unresolved later. This was just to name two things that I felt were not resolved satisfactorily. I did enjoy some of the secondary characters, such as Mccauly, Nigel, the cat, the Duke of Leighton (whom I presume will come up again in a future edition), and the reappearance of the Duke and Duchess of Markham. Matilda initially left me a bit cold, being a bit thoughtless in some of her dialogue, but I enjoyed the fact that she was a character that was a square peg, being made to fit into a round hole, but fully aware she is a square peg and trying to deal with it as best she could while appreciating and trying to fulfill her own squareness. Also, both Tobias and Hildy seemed to appreciate her talent and uniqueness, and in their own ways, be her friend and protect her.

If anything, this story emphasized how difficult it can be for people who are different, and who do not fit into societal norms - such as so-called bluestockings; intelligent women who want to engage in something beyond the normal roles expected by society.

Anyways, it was an enjoyable read, with interesting characters, some satisfactory heat, and some 4 legged furry cuteness. BTW, I agree with Mccauly and his belief that orange cats are evil - I have the scar on the calf that proves it myself and amongst my group of friends who have all met the Orange Devil (aka Old Hateful) in our lives, we have a saying - Orange is the colour of Hatefulness (at least with one orange cat and his brother!) But that is just a side note :)

A solid 3.5 out of 5, and I am curious about the Duke of Leighton and the so-called Lady Hell? I presume a future project for the Duchess Society....

I found “The Brazen Bluestocking”, the first book in the Duchess Society by Tracy Sumner to be an enjoyable read. I love when a writer takes me outside the usual ballroom and afternoon tea story. Lady Hildegard Templeton and Tobias Streeter do not care for the rules of the ton. He is entering a marriage of convenience and she has been hired to research him on behalf of the bride’s father. Matchmaking is her business after all. They each live their lives on their own terms and have a clear vision of their futures. Well laid plans have a way of changing though, especially when there is a twist, a cat and a loveable child involved.

I found this a fun read!!! The characters were entertaining and the storyline was strong. From the first you can feel the attraction Hildy and Tobias have for one another. Then to read as the story unfolds and all the complications which arise and you see how they muddle through.

I was gifted this book as an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.