Never a Duke
When her second lady’s maid goes missing, Lady Rosalind Kinwood seeks the help of Ned Wentworth who, despite his adoption into the Duke of Walden’s family, is reputed to have connections among the disreputable elements of society. As they learn more about each other, however, they discover they are well suited, and initial attraction develops into love. But serious obstacles remain, not just from her arrogant and abusive family, but from the gang ruthlessly determined to protect a lucrative trade abducting naïve young women.
The novel deals with a range of social issues, notably classism, aristocratic self-centeredness, double standards, and the vulnerability of women; and it offers scathing insights into the pretensions and self-serving sense of privilege flaunted by elitist groups: “It’s not fair, it’s not right, but it’s the way of the world that the male of the species in polite circles need not grow up unless or until he chooses to.” The mystery is intriguing, and it is a special delight to watch two social outsiders, both possessed of an independent spirit, determination, and a social conscience, triumph over adversity and find love.
A fine conclusion to the impressive Rogues to Riches Regency series. Highly recommended.
