In the first novel of Maya Rodale’s enthralling new series, an English duke vows to make an American seamstress his duchess…
In Gilded Age Manhattan, anything can happen…
Seeking a wealthy American bride who can save his family’s estate, Brandon Fiennes, the duke of Kingston, is a rogue determined to do the right thing. But his search for an heiress goes deliciously awry when an enchanting … heiress goes deliciously awry when an enchanting seamstress tumbles into his arms instead.
…and true love is always in fashion
Miss Adeline Black aspires to be a fashionable dressmaker—not a duchess—and not even an impossibly seductive duke will distract her. But Kingston makes an offer she can’t refuse: join him at society events to display her gowns and advise him on which heiresses are duchess material. It’s the perfect plan—as long as they resist temptation, avoid a scandal, and above all do not lose their hearts.
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I do not think I have ever read a historical romance that takes place in the Gilded Age. Plus it is staged in New York City versus the typical city of London. Double ding! I was drawn in by the whole scene Maya Rodale paints! This book starts out like so many do-a rogue Duke is in need of a duchess. And not just any duchess, the Duke’s estate is failing, so she has to have a sizable dowry. What transpires is a wonderful tale of independence, dreams, and a notable women’s movement.
The Gilded age is one of opulence. Everybody is showing off what they have got. From houses to dresses to balls, it is a time to be seen and to make your mark. Brandon, the Duke of Kingston, is in America to find a wife. He is nearly penniless due to his father’s old fashioned ways. He stumbles into Adeline, a seamstress who strives to be a dressmaker. He is enchanted with her. Having found out that she is not of money, he offers her a way to showcase her gowns at some society galas in exchange for valuable information on the many ladies he intends to call on. It’s all a ruse though. He really just wants to be close to her. No way to refuse the free publicity, Adeline agrees to be seen with the Duke.
Adeline was the true star of the book! Very resilient and wise for her years. She was a fierce women of an era that offered many obstacles for women. She was smart and very talented. Her eye for fashion clearly excited her and that excitement translated into very exotic and unusual designer gowns. Soon the wealthy women were all clamoring for her designs!
I also enjoyed the Duke. He was enchanted with Adeline and even though he knew her station wasn’t aligned with his, he could not help himself when it came to her! He tried to woo others that had the dowry and connections, but he was fooling himself. I enjoyed seeing his eyes opened. Not only with Adeline, but with a strong women’s movement as well.
Brandon and Adeline’s romance was a sweet one-not over the top-but more simmering. The focus was more on her dressmaking business instead of the budding romance with the Duke. It was an intriguing read since the author gave us the inside scoop on what the women were achieving during that age. Behind the scenes women who helped other women, achieve stability and be socially accepted by a society run by men. I particularly enjoyed the descriptions of the city and clothing by Maya Rodale. She brought Adeline’s vision to life and it was vivid and exciting!
I am intrigued to read more books within this Gilded Age Girls Club series! I am sure they will to be as fascinating as the Duchess by Design!