📖 Overview
Lady Delilah Chambers, a half-Arab widow and travel writer, encounters an unexpected connection during a one-night encounter at an inn with a stranger - only to discover he is the Duke of Ashton, the very man engaged to marry her stepdaughter.
The two protagonists must navigate London society while maintaining distance and discretion, despite their lingering attraction. Cultural differences, family obligations, and matters of reputation create mounting tensions as they struggle with their growing feelings.
This Regency romance incorporates elements of family dynamics, cultural identity, and societal expectations in 19th century England. The presence of an Arab heroine adds historical context about Britain's relationship with the Middle East during this period.
The story explores themes of duty versus desire, the weight of family responsibility, and the challenges faced by those who exist between multiple cultural worlds in British high society.
👀 Reviews
Readers describe this as a steamy historical romance with a Middle Eastern heroine, which many appreciated for its cultural representation. The chemistry between leads and witty dialogue drove positive reviews.
Liked:
- Incorporation of Arabic language and customs
- Strong portrayal of family relationships
- Well-researched historical details
- Mature characters (heroine is 35)
Disliked:
- Plot relies heavily on miscommunication
- Some found the premise unrealistic
- Middle section pacing drags
- Several reviewers noted editing errors
Ratings:
Goodreads: 3.7/5 (3,800+ ratings)
Amazon: 4.2/5 (500+ ratings)
Sample review quotes:
"Finally a romance heroine who looks like me" - Goodreads reviewer
"The constant back and forth about hiding their relationship became tedious" - Amazon reviewer
"Their emotional connection felt rushed despite the length" - Barnes & Noble reviewer
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To Have and to Hoax by Martha Waters An estranged married couple engages in an escalating game of pretense and manipulation to rekindle their relationship in Regency England.
A Duke in Disguise by Cat Sebastian Two childhood friends reunite when one discovers he is the heir to a dukedom, forcing them to choose between duty and love in Regency London.
My Fake Rake by Eva Leigh A bluestocking lady transforms a scholarly gentleman into a rake to attract another man's attention, leading to unexpected consequences in their masquerade.
The Duchess Deal by Tessa Dare A seamstress strikes a marriage bargain with a scarred duke who needs an heir, creating a relationship built on convenience that transforms into more.
To Have and to Hoax by Martha Waters An estranged married couple engages in an escalating game of pretense and manipulation to rekindle their relationship in Regency England.
🤔 Interesting facts
🌙 The author, Diana Quincy, worked as a television journalist before becoming a historical romance novelist, covering major stories including the September 11 attacks.
📚 The novel features a half-Arab heroine, Lady Delilah Chambers, reflecting the author's own Middle Eastern heritage and her commitment to bringing diversity to historical romance.
👗 Set in Regency-era England, the book explores themes of cultural identity at a time when Britain's empire was expanding its connections with the Middle East.
💑 The story's premise revolves around a one-night stand between strangers who later discover they're about to become step-relations—a scandalous situation by Regency standards.
🎨 The book is the first in the "Clandestine Affairs" series, which focuses on unconventional heroines who challenge the social norms of their time.