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A review by irl_bookworms
The Secret Duchess by Jane Walsh
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.5
I don’t pick up as much historical romance as I used to, but Walsh always finds a way to draw me back in and The Secret Duchess was so worth it. We have Joan, a recently widowed Duchess who has lost her inheritance due to mysterious circumstances, and we have Maeve, a fashionable spinster who loses her easy way of living and begins to scramble for a means to keep her comforts.
I really enjoyed how Joan and Maeve contrasted and complimented each other, this was especially present in the power dynamic in their relationship - it felt very balanced despite one having more experience and the other having more wealth. Maeve is an absolute charmer and so fun to read, especially side by side to Joan’s moderate naivety. One of my favourite scenes accuranted this difference and honestly made me laugh out loud.
I loved the intimate scenes and really continue to enjoy how Walsh approaches them. It’s an approach that is soft, intimate, creative, and thoughtful. I could read them over and over again.
I didn’t care so much for the mystery element of the story, much as it was a device to get these two women into close proximity. The mystery is resolved pretty much as we expect from the beginning so I wasn’t too invested in that part of the story. I think those looking for a mystery won’t find too much to delve into here, but those who like family drama will be satisfied.
Still, I cannot wait to see what story of Walsh’s will pull me in next.
*I received an eARC from Bold Stroke Books & NetGalley. All opinions are my own.*
I really enjoyed how Joan and Maeve contrasted and complimented each other, this was especially present in the power dynamic in their relationship - it felt very balanced despite one having more experience and the other having more wealth. Maeve is an absolute charmer and so fun to read, especially side by side to Joan’s moderate naivety. One of my favourite scenes accuranted this difference and honestly made me laugh out loud.
I loved the intimate scenes and really continue to enjoy how Walsh approaches them. It’s an approach that is soft, intimate, creative, and thoughtful. I could read them over and over again.
I didn’t care so much for the mystery element of the story, much as it was a device to get these two women into close proximity. The mystery is resolved pretty much as we expect from the beginning so I wasn’t too invested in that part of the story. I think those looking for a mystery won’t find too much to delve into here, but those who like family drama will be satisfied.
Still, I cannot wait to see what story of Walsh’s will pull me in next.
*I received an eARC from Bold Stroke Books & NetGalley. All opinions are my own.*