In this witty third installment of the Miss Prentice's Protegees series, Leopold Sloane, the 11th Duke of Debden, hires Portia Kendall as a chaperone for his rebellious siblings during a summer in Bath. Leopold takes his family's safety seriously after one sister is injured at a protest rally, but he finds himself overwhelmingly attracted to the outspoken, principled woman he's hired. Portia, a passionate reformist writer struggling to make ends meet, accepts the temporary position to fund her real calling: championing social reform through her work at a radical newspaper. Portia sneaks out at night to write for the publication that criticizes the very aristocracy Leopold represents Their romance unfolds amid misunderstandings, class conflict, and the central tension between Portia's commitment to her principles and her growing feelings for the duke.
I loved this book for its sharp wit, authentic Regency setting, and the delicious tension of a forbidden romance across class lines. Heath excels at blending political intrigue with romantic development, offering readers more than just a love story. There's substance in Portia's reformist mission and Leo's struggle between duty and desire. The banter crackles with intelligence, the forced proximity creates genuine chemistry, and the slow-burn payoff is deeply satisfying. Leo's protective devotion and Portia's fierce independence create a dynamic that feels both modern and perfectly suited to the era. I found myself thoroughly invested in this couple's journey.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. It is out soooonnnnn....July 28, 2026. A must for your TBR stack.
No comments:
Post a Comment