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Diana Boyle, a wealthy young widow, has no desire to ever marry again. Particularly not to someone who merely wants her for her fortune.
So when she discovers that she’s listed in a directory of rich, single women she is furious, and rightly so. She confronts Maxwell Dean, the man who published the Bachelor’s Directory, and is horrified to find he is far more attractive than his actions have led her to expect. However, Diana is unmoved by Max’s explanation that he authored the list to assist younger sons like himself who cannot afford to marry unless it’s to a woman of means.
She gathers the ladies in the directory together to inform them of its existence, so they may circumvent fortune hunters’ efforts to trick them into marriage. Though outraged, the women decide to embrace their unique position of power and reverse the usual gender roles by making the men dance to their tune. And together…the ladies rewrite the rules.
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Creators
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Publisher
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Release date
January 9, 2024 -
Formats
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OverDrive Listen audiobook
- ISBN: 9780593684757
- File size: 184478 KB
- Duration: 06:24:19
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Languages
- English
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Reviews
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October 23, 2023
A shy widow, a grande dame, and a disgraced heiress join forces to turn the tables on fortune-hunting men in this innovative Regency from Allain (Mr. Malcolm’s List). Diana Boyle married a much older cousin to save herself from penury. Now a widow at 25, she’s surprised to learn she has been included in a bachelor’s guide to Britain’s wealthy widows and spinsters. Infuriated, she calls on its author, the surprisingly attractive Maxwell Dean, who is abashed by her anger, but intrigued by her beauty. Determined to expose the men who would exploit these women, Diana writes to as many others listed in the directory as she can find, including Lady Regina Townsend, who was rejected by society after a youthful indiscretion, and Lady Gordon, a gracious older woman still mourning her husband. The women decide to lead on the fortune hunters before rejecting them—but along the way, they must avoid falling for their suitors. The ensuing trio of romances are sweet, but Allain’s style is slightly stilted, making for some oddly wooden emotional beats. The novel’s true strength lies in the friendship between the bold heroines. These engaging women will appeal to fans of Mimi Matthews and Julie Klassen. Agent: Stefanie Lieberman, Janklow & Nesbit Assoc.
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