Lydia Whitfield's future is settled: she will marry the owner of the neighboring estate, whom her father chose for her before his untimely death. But when Robert Newton, apprentice to the family solicitor, comes to help settle a few details, neither Lydia nor Robert can deny that there's an immediate pull between them. When Lydia is kidnapped a few days later and Robert is able to assist in her escape, their friendship is cemented -- but will they ever be able to share more than friendship? And who is attempting to kidnap Lydia, ruin her reputation, and steal her fortune?

This is a fun Regency read, ostensibly for teens, but will probably appeal to Regency readers of any age. To purists, Lydia may read as a little too modern in her actions and opinions, but in general, I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to fans of the genre. ( )

I adored Anstey's first book, Loves, Lives & Spies, and was super excited to see she had a new one coming out this year. I jumped at the chance to review it.

Like the first book, Duels & Deception was super fun. It was also an engaging and quick read - I sat down anticipating only reading a few pages and when I looked up, I had finished over half the book. I loved the characters, and did not want to leave them. And I love that mystery and intrigue also played a large role in the plot.

Anstey writes intelligent and headstrong heroines (yes!!!), and heroes who like educated women who stand up for themselves (double yes!!!). Lydia is super smart, inquisitive, and refuses to let the men in her life sideline her. She is determined to take control of her property, her business, and her future. Robert is also also super smart, loyal, and tenacious -- just like Lydia. I loved them and rooted for them the entire book.

Given how much I loved this book and her previous one, Anstey just became an insta-buy author for me.

Review copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley. ( )

Yes, yes, it's just another fluffy regency romance... except there's also a strong willed young woman at the center of the story, and a young man who admires her for it. Also, there's an aristocrat who is relishing his law work, and a lot of good historical information about the stupidity of dueling and how to foil a duel, should you find yourself in one by accident. Also, dastardly adventures! Mystery! and rotten folks getting their comeuppance. Yargh, satisfying. ( )

Quite excellent, a mix of romance and mystery. Lydia and Robert work together to solve a mystery and fall in love. I particularly liked how the plot slowly unfolded. ( )

In the same manner as Emma or The Grand Sophy, D&D has a female protagonist who thrives on Managing Others. Lydia is smart & kind & quite capable of rescuing herself from her circumstances (drunk guardians, botched kidnappings, disappointing fiances), but she is in desperate need of a companion in her campaigns for domination. Enter the male protagonist, who is quite sweet in his support of her. The sinister plot(s) underpinning the story are a little silly, but the drama is fun & serves the romance well. ( )