★ 02/18/2019
An unusual pair of smart and worldly but reticent lovers; a modern sensibility about themes of consent, class, and disability; and a surprising and adventurous plot make Burrowes’s latest Rogues to Riches Regency (after My One and Only Duke) satisfyingly relatable nerdy escapism. Tender ex-cleric Duncan Wentworth would rather keep to his books or travel the Continent than attend to the neglected Berkshire estate that his newly titled cousin Quinn has compelled him to manage. Nevertheless, when underfed fugitive “Miss Maddie” appears in his woods and saves him from poachers, Duncan offers her his hospitality, a job transcribing his travelogues, and his curious attention, despite her reluctance to share anything about herself. Through a mix of trust built over chess games (with many chess metaphors throughout the story) and courtship, and the astute observations of Duncan’s visiting cousin Stephen, the identity of widowed duchess Matilda Wakefield comes to light, as does the dilemma that led her to flee London. By the end, the whole Wentworth clan, embracing Duncan’s new beloved as one of their own, works together to help extricate her from her troubles. Individually and collectively, the Wentworths are fun to watch, and the optimism in Burrowes’s depiction of wealthy people whose humble history yields profound compassion will warm readers’ hearts to the core. (Apr.)
"Grace Burrowes is terrific!"—Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times bestselling author
"An intelligent, resourceful heroine and a hero who comes into his own bond over fierce games of chess, spirited banter, rapier wit, and mutual attraction in a sweet, passionate romance that is sure to enchant."—Library Journal, starred review
"An unusual pair of smart and worldly but reticent lovers; a modern sensibility about themes of consent, class, and disability; and a surprising and adventurous plot make Burrowes's latest Rogues to Riches Regency satisfyingly relatable nerdy escapism...will warm readers' hearts to the core." —Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Intimacy develops over conversations about his travels, games of chess, and a gradual sexual attraction, much in the manner of Mary Balogh's classic Regency romances...A romance of gentle yearning and fulfillment balance out by a suspense plot and a fast-paced third act."—Kirkus
"Readers will root for these two wary people as they learn to trust each other with their foibles and their truths. With revealing dialogue, games of chess and subtle sensuality, this romance sings."— Bookpage
"Sexy heroes, strong heroines, intelligent plots, enchanting love stories...Grace Burrowes's romances have them all."—Mary Balogh, New York Times bestselling author
"Grace Burrowes writes from the heart—with warmth, humor, and a generous dash of sensuality, her stories are unputdownable! If you're not reading Grace Burrowes you're missing the very best in today's Regency Romance!"—Elizabeth Hoyt, New York Times bestselling author
"Skillfully crafted and exquisitely written, Burrowes' latest is pure gold; a brilliant launch to a promising series."—Library Journal on My One and Only Duke, starred review
"Burrowes is a writer of towering talent."—USA Today Happy Ever After on My One and Only Duke
2019-02-20
Two people who have lived on the margins of their families find a home in each other in the second Rogues to Riches novel.
When Duncan Wentworth encounters a mystery woman in the woods of the estate he is managing for his cousin, the Duke of Walden, he knows something is amiss. Though he left the church in disillusionment, the former curate and teacher is drawn to helping people in need, as readers of Burrowes' My One and Only Duke (2018) would know. He coaxes the hollow-cheeked lady to join his household as a secretary, and she reluctantly agrees, seduced by the idea of food and shelter. Their intimacy develops over conversations about his travels, games of chess, and a gradual sexual attraction, much in the manner of Mary Balogh's classic Regency romances. But though Matilda Wakefield gives him her maiden name and sexual companionship, she withholds her status as a widowed duchess and cautions him against prying into her secrets. Inevitably, however, she falls in love with this honorable man, one who cannot abide dishonesty or racism and who is battling guilt over his past failures to protect vulnerable women. Their relationship finally helps him heal, but despite his wish to court Matilda, their bond is threatened by larger forces involving national security in the form of her ex-fiance, a military colonel. A momentarily careless act on her part finally sets off a chain of events that takes everyone to London for a confrontation with the men who have used her as a pawn. It will take the unconventional Walden family's intervention and the couple's own faith in each other to help her escape the web of espionage in which she was unwittingly entangled.
A romance of gentle yearning and fulfillment balanced out by a suspense plot and a fast-paced third act.
Narrator James Langton’s voice is as smooth as warm chocolate sauce—and just as yummy. This sophisticated Regency romance is filled with smart dialogue, well-done accents, and acting so good the listener won’t want to pause between chapters. Fate, poachers, and a trapped rabbit bring handsome and disillusioned Duncan Wentworth into the path of the mysterious, lovely widow Duchess Matilda Wakefield. Matilda holds dangerous secrets, but despite them and her reticence, Duncan’s heart wants what it wants. As delivered by Langton, Duncan’s voice is interesting and well done. Matilda’s is lighter, feminine, and distinct. Langton especially excels in his portrayal of two miscreants whose lower-class accents are simply perfect. This is a witty, well-presented listening experience. A.C.P. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine
Narrator James Langton’s voice is as smooth as warm chocolate sauce—and just as yummy. This sophisticated Regency romance is filled with smart dialogue, well-done accents, and acting so good the listener won’t want to pause between chapters. Fate, poachers, and a trapped rabbit bring handsome and disillusioned Duncan Wentworth into the path of the mysterious, lovely widow Duchess Matilda Wakefield. Matilda holds dangerous secrets, but despite them and her reticence, Duncan’s heart wants what it wants. As delivered by Langton, Duncan’s voice is interesting and well done. Matilda’s is lighter, feminine, and distinct. Langton especially excels in his portrayal of two miscreants whose lower-class accents are simply perfect. This is a witty, well-presented listening experience. A.C.P. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine
