When a Duchess Says I Do

Starred review from February 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.

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