This was a great opening chapter in the Society of Wanton Widows series, it had that Regency historical romance novel that I was hoping for from the description and genre. I enjoyed the overall feel of this and how it uses the time-period perfectly and cared about what was going on with the characters. The romance element was realistic and I enjoyed getting to watch it grow, and thought Cassandra and Reuben were perfectly written in this book. I enjoyed what Kirsten S. Blacketer wrote and it left me wanting to read the next book in the series asap.

This story snuck up on me in the best way—clever, tempting, and far more addictive than I expected. And somewhere between the simmering glances and the scandalous secrets, I realized something important: Kirsten S. Blacketer is officially my new favorite author. She writes a story that is witty, unexpected, and absolutely brimming with passion. Her storytelling is sharp, emotional, and downright irresistible.
Cassandra Sterling, our newly freed duchess, is everything I love in a Victorian heroine: elegant, wounded, and finally ready to claim the joy she was long denied. And then there’s Reuben Evans… the valet‑turned‑butler who has been quietly, hopelessly in love with her for years. He falls first, he falls hard, and he falls with a devotion that made my heart do a little somersault.
What I adored most is how Kirsten S. Blacketer leans into the forbidden tension without ever losing the heart. The age gap? Delicious. The class difference? Spicy. The slow burn? Torture in the best possible way. Every glance between them feels like a secret, every touch like a spark they’ve both been trying (and failing) to ignore.
And then—because this book refuses to be predictable—the plot twists start rolling in. Dark secrets, old sins, and a scandal that threatens everything they’re building together. I was not expecting the layers of mystery and danger, but they made the romance even richer. Cassandra and Reuben don’t just fall in love—they fight for it, tooth and nail, and I was cheering the whole way.
The Mayfair Widows are the perfect chaotic, supportive, champagne‑sipping Greek chorus, add the perfect touch of mischief and support. They are like a glamorous Victorian girl gang with impeccable timing and even better advice. And now I want every single one of their stories. Blacketer’s writing is confident, sensual, and wonderfully surprising. An outstanding storyteller, truly.
If you love forbidden longing, slow‑burn heat, and a heroine reclaiming her pleasure on her own terms, this one is going to sweep you right off your feet.
A passionate, daring, utterly satisfying Victorian romance—I devoured it.

A classic spicy historical romance typical story. I've been her fans for a long time and this book just gives me the proof why I love her books so much. I would guarantee you, this is super worth to read.