Review: Duchess Material by Emily Sullivan

*I received a copy of this book from Hachette Book Group Canada in exchange for an honest review.

Duchess Material

by Emily Sullivan

November 19, 2024

Goodreads Summary:

Fans of Netflix's Bridgerton series will love this captivating​ first book in a dazzling new Victorian historical romance series, perfect for fans of Evie Dunmore, Amalie Howard, and Martha Waters!

Ever since unexpectedly inheriting a dukedom over a decade ago, William Margrave, the Duke of Ellis has strived to silence his critics and please his disapproving relatives by being the perfect aristocrat —even though that meant leaving behind the progressive ideals he once held. Now the time has come for Will to wed and he intends to find his duchess using the same relentlessly clinical approach that has led to his success thus far. The only problem? His old friend’s unconventional younger sister keeps interrupting his carefully controlled life. And to make matters worse, Will discovers he rather likes it.

The Atkinson sisters are known for two their father’s self-made fortune and their disinterest in playing by society’s rules. Middle sister Phoebe Atkinson revels in her role as the outspoken bluestocking Bohemian, much to the exasperation of her older sister Alexandra, the budding economist, and the amusement of her younger sister Winifred, the endlessly charming social butterfly. Though her parents would love to see her married to an upstanding member of the ton, Phoebe traded the ballroom for the schoolroom years ago and now spends her days teaching working class girls. But when her most promising student goes missing, Phoebe reluctantly turns to the most powerful man she knows, the Duke of Ellis. He was once the object of her girlhood affections until he ascended to the dukedom and left his old life behind. But as they search across London, she discovers that perhaps Will hasn’t changed as much as she thought—and neither have her feelings.

Review

Duchess Material is a gem (or should I say diamond ;)) of a read. With a plot that made me think and fume and characters that made me laugh and blush, it was an emotionally rich story.

The mystery part of Duchess Material wasn't too complex but kept me hooked. It brought up topics that required serious attention. While one solution wasn't perfect(ly legal), it was pleasing to hear of~

Phoebe and Will were more alike than they realized. Both impulsive and bullheaded, neither were good at conveying their feelings. But from their first scene together, I knew they needed to tend to their unfinished business. The palpable chemistry between them refused to be ignored. A bit of tough love was required at some point but senses were made and pages were lit up ;)

Phoebe’s sisters were most fun to meet in Duchess Material! Though the three of them weren’t very close, they cared for one another in their own ways. As the spirited younger sister, Freddie’s dramatics soften harsh realities. While Alex, the independent older sibling, came to the rescue just when needed. Are we possibly getting their stories? Because I need them!

With heart and heat, Duchess Material was a delightful and romantic read. I enjoyed my time immensely with this fine reading material ;)

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.