Minerva Spencer: The Dueling Duchess

The Dueling Duchess by Minerva Spencer
Series: Wicked Women of Whitechapel #2
Published by Kensington Books on May 23, 2023
Genres: Fiction / Romance / Action & Adventure, Fiction / Romance / Historical / Regency, Fiction / Women, Fiction / World Literature / England / 19th Century
Pages: 384
Format: eBook
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Perfect for fans of Julia Quinn’s Bridgerton books, this fresh and unique Regency-set romance series features heroines who aren’t afraid to compete in a man’s world. A new generation of readers will delight in this witty, thought provoking, always entertaining novel by critically acclaimed author Minerva Spencer.

When Cecile Tremblay lost everyone and everything in the French Revolution, she never imagined that she'd earn her living as a markswoman in a London circus. But Farnham's Fantastical Female Fayre has become her home, her family, and her future. Another thing Cecile never imagined was becoming entangled with the man gossip columns call The Darling of the Ton. But mere weeks after her rejection of his insulting carte blanche—and his infuriating engagement to an heiress—Darlington is back, this time to beg Cecile for help. And help him she will, by teaching him about honest work—and the right way to treat a woman.
 
Gaius Darlington has always led a charmed life. Until now. Suddenly, a long-lost heir has appeared to claim his title, possessions, and property, Not only that, but Guy's fiancée has jilted him to marry the usurper! Yet there is a silver lining: it's no longer Guy’s duty to marry an heiress to save the dukedom. He’s free to wed the woman he loves—if only he can earn her forgiveness.
 
They say hell hath no fury like a woman scorned. But fury is just a step away from passion, and Guy knows just how to arouse Cecile’s. . .
 

After enjoying the Boxing Baroness, I one clicked Books 2 and 3.

The storytelling weaves in parts of Book 1, but does not retread ground.  It was an interesting way to approach that, as I had thought Spencer would revisit the France road trip. But instead most of the story picks up a year later.  Although you could read this book as a standalone, you will be better off starting with Book 1.

I didn’t connect with this story as well, but it was still a well written and entertaining story of another of Farnham’s Fantastical Female Fayre performers finding love with a peer of the realm. Found family is a strong theme of this book, which is a nice aspect.

There are adult themes, as well as on page intimacy and some violence, so best for readers who can tolerate that.

I gave this read 4.5 stars, but it was probably more like a 4.25 from me, only because the element of Deux es Machina (again) at the end, and the approach to the past books was a little jumpy and so disjointing as a reader.  I also didn’t connect as well with the MCs, although they are both likable and their romance is well written.  I was honestly more interested in Guy’s fiancé.  And I wish the storyline with the cousin would have played out on page a bit more, too.

But I do think Spencer is a good, well researched story teller and this series has a very different aspect of Regency London which is a nice diversion.  So I would try Book 1, and if you like it pursue the other two in the series.

I am going to try for Book 3, because the MCs are interesting and I am a sucker for a Raven, so I will let you know my experience of that one!