The Duchess War by Courtney Milan

The Duchess War (Brothers Sinister, #1)

by Courtney Milan

Miss Minerva Lane is a quiet, bespectacled wallflower, and she wants to keep it that way. After all, the last time she was the center of attention, it ended badly--so badly that she changed her name to escape her scandalous past. Wallflowers may not be the prettiest of blooms, but at least they don't get trampled. So when a handsome duke comes to town, the last thing she wants is his attention.

But that is precisely what she gets.

Because Robert Blaisdell, the Duke of Clermont, is not fooled. When Minnie figures out what he's up to, he realizes there is more to her than her spectacles and her quiet ways. And he's determined to lay her every secret bare before she can discover his. But this time, one shy miss may prove to be more than his match...

Reviewed by Amanda on

4 of 5 stars

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2015 reread: I think I actually like Robert more this go around. He's so unlike the typical historical romance hero (except that he's so broken and you want to hug him), and it was refreshing. Minnie was exactly what Robert needed.

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Whee! More Courtney Milan. After reading The Governess Affair, I was excited to dive into The Duchess War and see the brothers in action. I wasn't disappointed.

One aspect of The Duchess War I enjoyed was that Robert, our hero, was not suave. By any means. He was passionate about his causes and funny and moral, but not a charmer of the ladies. Unless you're charmed by lines like, "You have magnificent tits." He's not the typical historical romance hero, and I found that I liked it.

But Minnie was fun. She has secrets. Scandals. Backbone. Robert never stood a chance. I always enjoy a heroine who's progressive and smart beyond the times. Minnie certainly fits that role. Strong heroines for the win!

The Duchess War also introduces other characters in the Brothers Sinister series and I can't wait to dive into their own stories. Though the series surrounds the brothers (and their group), there's a strong focus on women and as much as I love a good hero, woman power is where it's at.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 29 March, 2015: Finished reading
  • 29 March, 2015: Reviewed
  • Started reading
  • Finished reading
  • 29 March, 2015: Reviewed