A review by yourbookishbff
The Runaway Duchess by Joanna Lowell

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This was a perfectly unexpected love story for Lavinia, a memorable side character from The Duke Undone. Both Lavinia and Neal are downright snobbish - Lavinia has only ever lived in high society and doesn't know how to acclimate to a life without luxury, and Neal is determined to find a female partner he believes shares his every interest and academic pursuit (eye roll, Neal). These two should make zero sense, but the zany and haphazard circumstances of their meeting and subsequent road trip, and their slow burn chemistry, worked so well. 

My absolute favorite decision Lowell makes in this is in Lavinia's happily ever after. Seeing women in historical romance support each other's passions and careers makes me feel absolutely effervescent with joy. Lowell puts in the work to build out an equitable resolution and life together for these two, and it felt so incredibly special.

Highly recommend for those who love opposites attract, class difference, hidden identity, and roadtrips!
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