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The Duchess War (Brothers Sinister #1)

by Courtney Milan (Goodreads Author)

4.01 of 5 stars 4.01 · rating details · 1,783 ratings · 304 reviews

Sometimes love is an accident.

This time, it’s a strategy.

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...more

ebook, 270 pages

Published December 8th 2012 by Courtney Milan (first published December 6th 2012)

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A Rogue by Any Other Name by Sarah MacLean

The Duke's Perfect Wife by Jennifer Ashley

2012 Historical Romance Novels

55th out of 217 books — 542 voters

Most anticipated books in NEW series (released in or after July 2012)

62nd out of 132 books — 356 voters

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Community Reviews

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Dec 11, 2012 Jill rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-european, 2012-4-5-5-stars

***5 stars***

The Duchess War is intelligent, beautiful, romantic, humorous, heartbreaking. Excellent!

This is everything I look for in a historical romance.

Full review in December issue of InD'Tale Magazine
http://www.indtale.com/reviews/duches...

Reviewed for InD'Tale Magazine
http://www.indtale.com/

32 likes · like · see review

Dec 19, 2012 UniquelyMoi *Dhestiny* BlithelyBookish rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-for-review, 5-stars, 2012-reads, reviewed-for-author, reviewed-at-blithelybookish, reviewed-by-me, working-conditions, honor-integrity, historical-romance, series-brothers-sinister, author-courtney-milan, must-read-author, must-read-series, heroine-awesome, heroine-amazing, hero-not-your-usual-duke, format-kindle-or-kindle-compatible

Sometimes love is an accident.

This time, it’s a strategy.

The Duchess War is the first full length novel in Courtney Milan’s Brothers Sinister series, and a story that I've been looking forward to. Having read The Governess Affair, the prequel to this story, and having read the epilogue that sets up this book, I knew that what was to come would be a wonderful, emotional read, but this... it was so much more than I had hoped for.

Cover blurb: Miss Minerva Lane is a quiet, bespectacled wallflower,

...more

39 likes · like · see review

Dec 11, 2012 Baba ♥♥♥ Marcus, Tyler, Tate, Dan, Ty, & Hunter rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: courtney-milan, historicals

I’m not sure if I can convey my feelings into words right now but I’ll be trying anyway. It goes without saying that I’ve had extremely high expectations. Unfortunately, though, The Duchess War will go down in history as a slight disappointment—to put it mildly. Some parts I loved, some I liked and some…not at all. Up until to the 70 % mark I really thought that The Duchess War would work out for me. Hope dies last after all. With this end in mind I felt totally underwhelmed throughout the next...more

56 likes · like · see review

Dec 14, 2012 rameau rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, romance, i-wants-it-bad, can-i-has-a-devin-please, nippy-nipples, read-in-2012, whodunit, something-positive-shelf, recommending, assumed-identities, self-published

I had a spoilery discussion about this book with Anachronist that is now posted on Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell-blog. I recommend you read the book before the blog post.

The blurb says… actually, I don’t have a clue what the blurb says. At this point I never look at the blurbs for Milan’s books because they feel like spoilers. I’d rather go in without any expectations and just enjoy the story and writing. Of course, for The Duchess War I was partly spoiled because of The Governess Affair.

Here, the...more

15 likes · like · see review

Dec 19, 2012 KatLynne rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-reads, g-historical-romance, hero-i-adored, hero-virgin, heroine-scarred, heroine-tormented-flawed, heroine-virgin, heroine-with-backbone-smart-strong, hero-tortured-flawed, kindle-owned, mild-steam, one-of-my-fav-authors, part-of-a-series, transformation, favorite-treasures, keeper

4.5 Brilliant Stars

Courtney Milan is one of my all-time favorite authors. Her books flow effortlessly and soon I find myself lost in the world and the lives she’s created.

Robert Alan Graydon Blaisdale is the Duke of Claremont and he’s determined to right his father’s wrongs. For me, he started out not the sexiest hero created, but as the story unfolds we get to know a man of remarkable character. I was drawn to the empathy he feels for those less fortunate. His radical beliefs are such that if...more 4.5 Brilliant Stars

Courtney Milan is one of my all-time favorite authors. Her books flow effortlessly and soon I find myself lost in the world and the lives she’s created.

Robert Alan Graydon Blaisdale is the Duke of Claremont and he’s determined to right his father’s wrongs. For me, he started out not the sexiest hero created, but as the story unfolds we get to know a man of remarkable character. I was drawn to the empathy he feels for those less fortunate. His radical beliefs are such that if I’d lived in his era I hope I would have whole heartedly supported his endeavors to change how the system works. He’s honest, intelligent, and a man who feels deeply for the plight of those who have no voice. His childhood background tugged strongly on my heart and I soon realized how it had shaped him into a man I soon came to love and admire. Unfortunately, this same background has left enough internal scars to cause him tremendous pain and feelings of inadequacy. I desperately wanted his utmost dream to come true.

Minnie aka Wilhelmina Pursling aka Minerva Lane has overcome great adversity from her past. She grew up delighting in a type of freedom most young women never experience. Now, her future is bleak and she lives in fear of discovery. What touched me most was Minnie’s lack of hope. How devastating to live each day, masquerading who you are and having no hope for a better future.

The setting is Leicester, England, 1863. With industry booming we get a glimpse of the conditions of the factory worker and their lack of voice. Robert has arrived determined to fix a problem occurring in this small town. Quite by accident he meets the intriguing and quiet Minnie. Why she tries to be invisible is another mystery to be solved.

Needless to say, I loved this book. I did have a minor quibble with a few aspects, but overall, it was an incredible read. I was somewhat disappointed at a decision made but it all worked out. A few times this felt more historical fiction than romance. Loving HF, this did not detract from my enjoyment and the sweet, warm romance developing soon gains first place. I became immersed in the relationship between Robert and Minnie along with their secrets. I found my emotions invested in their HEA.

As always, the secondary characters fit perfectly with the story. We meet Robert’s family and I was immediately attracted to his cousin, the delectable scientist, Sebastian. I loved the banter and the humor. I also became intrigued with Robert’s mother and was happy to see how she fit into the ending. Ms. Milan gives a very satisfying epilogue and now I’m once again waiting for the next installment to be devoured.(less)

17 likes · like · see review

Feb 16, 2013 Dija rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: dec-2012, buddy-slash-group-read, read-in-2013, first-in-series, awww, cotton-candy-fluff, hr, my-reviews, surprisingly-good

What an original, soothing read! The Duchess War took me completely by surprise, and I'm shocked I still recall most of what happened in it, nearly two months after I read it. Given my crappy memory, that's a sure sign I enjoyed this book.

No doubt, the greatest appeal of The Duchess War lies in the characters. I had trouble fully relating to Minnie, but there's no denying how awe-inspiring she is. After being betrayed by the one man her entire world revolved around at a young age, Minnie reconst...more What an original, soothing read! The Duchess War took me completely by surprise, and I'm shocked I still recall most of what happened in it, nearly two months after I read it. Given my crappy memory, that's a sure sign I enjoyed this book.

No doubt, the greatest appeal of The Duchess War lies in the characters. I had trouble fully relating to Minnie, but there's no denying how awe-inspiring she is. After being betrayed by the one man her entire world revolved around at a young age, Minnie reconstructed her life by the help of her great-aunts and through sheer determination. Her willpower is absolutely remarkable, and the many facets of her enigmatic personality are revealed little by little as the story progresses. While I can't say I love her, I certainly came to admire her for her resilience.

Robert was simply adorable. I love how Minnie outsmarted him at every turn but he was so obviously better with emotions and completely devoted to her. There was a lot more to this book than just the romance however, and I loved reading about the workers' movement in England at the time.

The ending was practical and prefect, something that's tough to come across in historicals featuring dukes and duchesses and happily ever afters. Though a bit on the serious side, I highly recommend The Duchess War to anyone looking for a refreshingly different HR.

Favorite passage:

“You see, there’s this woman. [...] Normally, one might say that there was a beautiful woman—but I don’t think she qualifies as a classical beauty. Still, I find that when she’s around, I’d rather look at her than anyone else. [...] There’s something about her that draws my eye. Something that defies words. Maybe it’s her hair, but I tried to tell her that, and she told me I was being ridiculous. I suppose I was. Maybe it’s her lips. Maybe it’s her eyes, although she so rarely looks at me. [...] She’s clever. Every time I see her I discover that I’ve underestimated her prowess. She ties me in knots.
[...] So beat me to flinders. Win. Overmatch me, Minnie. And when we’re alone…”
His fingers touched her chin lightly. “When we’re alone,” he whispered, “look up.”

*Buddy read with Aly. You can read her review here.*

For more reviews, visit my blog:
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15 likes · like · see review

Feb 22, 2013 Zumbagirl rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013, amazing-dialogue, beautifully-written, brothers, first-loves, favorite-hero, forgiveness, friendship, hidden-identity, impossible-problem, sweet-and-steamy-romance, very-romantic, virgin-hero, world-s-best-husband, worlds-greatest-father, favorite

Ten stars****or maybe 20 stars*****
Wow! I absolutely loved this and it may be my favorite by Ms. Milan. She writes her heroes so well - I fall in love with every single one. When I read the summary for this, it really did it no justice.

This is a love story. Not just a man loves a woman or a woman loves a man kind of love story. This is about two people who yearn to have love in their life - family love, romantic love, friendship love - just love in its purest form. Acceptance, loyalty, forgiven...more

8 likes · like · see review

Dec 24, 2012 Kathleen rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: reviewed, historical-rom

An absorbing story, keeping me on my toes. Lots of surprises are contained herein, some delightful, some appalling. I can't write a short review for this story line, so it's looooong, but all spoilers are hidden away.

In The Duchess War, Robert, the duke who would be a commoner, falls in love with Minnie, the star who would rather not shine.

The first half of the story was fairly light and flirty, yet peppered with historical bits about sedition, the abuse of mill workers, and the bias in the En...more

6 likes · like · see review

Mar 17, 2013 Vishous * Minion needs only Rach as Queen * marked it as hahaha-no-no-no

this is HR and you simply can not make both main characters in HR (view spoiler)

7 likes · like · see review

Dec 12, 2012 Erika rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, romance

2.5 stars

It's very hard for me to rate this book. For a book with such a beautiful writing, it feels almost like a crime to give it a low rating. However, reading is not just a process of thinking, but also a process of feeling. And with romance genre, my rating should reflect how I feel toward the main characters and their way to get the HEA.

With this book, what I felt mostly was frustration.

When I've finished reading The Duchess War I liked the title even more because honestly, I couldn’t ima...more

8 likes · like · see review

Jan 10, 2013 Kara-karina rated it 5 of 5 stars

I always loved how honest Courtney Milan's writing feels. She has this wry, slick and oddly vulnerable voice that really hits the spot and makes you feel everything with her characters.

Both men and women in her novels are bashful, self-deprecating and at the same time spirited in a very rational way (translation: no TSTL heroes). I really really love that.

The Duchess War starts with a cliche - the duke hides in the library and sees this mousy little woman who finds the same hiding spot he is occ...more

4 likes · like · see review

Jan 02, 2013 Jennifer rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: autobuy-authors, european-historical, historical, romance, victorian-era, ebooks, angsty-drama, friendships, favorite-heroes, betas-heroes, tormented-heroines, tortured-heroes, 4-and-a-half-stars, reviewed-on-blog, virgin-heroes, pretty-dress-covers

And she has done it again! Ms. Milan has become one of my auto-buy historical authors in the past year, but I'm always cautious that she might write a book I dislike or one that just isn't for me. Well, The Duchess War definitely made me feel like a paranoid fangirl. It had absolutely almost everything that I love about historical romance with a twist.

One thing that I have come to expect from a Courtney Milan book is the unconventional characters who are well-developed and realistic without bein...more And she has done it again! Ms. Milan has become one of my auto-buy historical authors in the past year, but I'm always cautious that she might write a book I dislike or one that just isn't for me. Well, The Duchess War definitely made me feel like a paranoid fangirl. It had absolutely almost everything that I love about historical romance with a twist.

One thing that I have come to expect from a Courtney Milan book is the unconventional characters who are well-developed and realistic without being boring since she is not afraid to provide readers with characters that may not be widely accepted (today and in the past) and seems to enjoy seeing how much she can push the envelope. Almost all the characters in The Duchess War seemed to follow this pattern from the main couple (Robert and Minnie) to the side characters.

Our hero is Robert Blaisdell, a young duke, who is more than what he first appears. Because while Robert may seem like the fairly typical English lord, he is anything but. I can't go too much into the truth about him without spoiling it for future readers, but it is fabulous to discover and very unique for that time period. I love when authors take cliched archetypes and shows how twisted they can be with the right amount of development.

Minnie, the heroine, is similar to Robert in that she is so much more than she appears which, in her case, is a shy wallflower. I have read many romances with wallflowers as heroines and most of them have a reason for their place in society, but I don't think I have ever read a wallflower with as valid a reason to avoid society's attention that Minnie. Her past is a little over-the-top, but I can really appreciate what Milan was doing with her character.

As a couple, Robert and Minnie are very unorthodox. I have seen reviews that comment on the fact that they don't seem to have much of a connection and that it is difficult to see why they feel the way they do about each other. I can see where those reviewers are coming from, but, for me, that was the beauty of this love story. At first glance, they shouldn't work as a couple, but each of them gets something from the other that they desperately need. The romance is very slow-burning and Ms. Milan takes her time getting them together, but it is so worth it by the end and I really admire the writing skills it takes to make something like this happen.

There is a pretty large cast in The Duchess War and I found there to be a nice balance between introducing some key secondary people and keeping the main storyline moving. Ms. Milan takes time to develop her less than important characters and I think that helps make her books stand out. For example, she spends a bit of time on Robert's mother who he feels abandoned him throughout his childhood. What is great about her is that she is not just the neglectful mother. The author obviously took the time to really think about this woman and what her marriage must have been like to cause such a negative relationship with her son. She took what could have been a cliched villain-like character and made her sympathetic and worthy of a second chance.

My personal favorites of the side characters though were the other Brothers Sinister: Robert's half-brother Oliver (a bastard whose mother and stepfather were the focus of The Governess Affair), Sebastian (a science-loving lord), and Violet (the sole female and a very uncoventional countess). Each of them was given a proper introduction which made me excited to read their own stories especially Sebastian.

And, finally, I have to mention the historical setting the Ms. Milan provides her readers. The Brothers Sinister series takes place in Victorian England which is a time of great changes politically, economically, and socially. What is great about this book is the use of the time period to provide background for the characters and give them a purpose. Some of the issues brought up in The Duchess War are radical politics, organized labor, and Darwinism. I will say that sometimes I think the story got a bit bogged down by all the historical context midway through, but it quickly picked up again.

All in all, I found this to be another successful historical romance for Ms. Milan. She is truly a talented writer who knows how to take her characters and give them so much life one would expect them to jump off the page. Plus the development of the romances is done skillfully and realistically in a way that is rare in today's historicals. I really recommend this book to other readers especially if they are willing to give the story the chance to slowly develop into something poignant and beautiful. (less)

2 likes · like · see review

Dec 11, 2012 Mimi Smith rated it 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Great book, yet again, by Courtney Milan. Loved it! Yes, it was slower at times, and yes the hero isn't the typical arrogant lord, he's insecure at times and is actually looking for love(go figure), but all the characters were so likable, the writing was, as always, fantastic and the plot was different. Too tired now to write a longer review... So, here are some quotes (I felt an urge to highlight half the book, but I restrained myself :))

. “You see, there’s this woman.”
She wasn’t going...more 4.5 stars

Great book, yet again, by Courtney Milan. Loved it! Yes, it was slower at times, and yes the hero isn't the typical arrogant lord, he's insecure at times and is actually looking for love(go figure), but all the characters were so likable, the writing was, as always, fantastic and the plot was different. Too tired now to write a longer review... So, here are some quotes (I felt an urge to highlight half the book, but I restrained myself :))

. “You see, there’s this woman.”
She wasn’t going to look up at him. She wasn’t.
“Normally, one might say that there was a beautiful woman—but I don’t think she qualifies as a classical beauty. Still, I find that when she’s around, I’d rather look at her than anyone else.”
He set two fingers against her cheek, and Minnie sucked in a breath. She was not going to look up at him. He’d see the longing in her eyes, and then…
“There’s something about her that draws my eye. Something that defies words. Maybe it’s her hair, but I tried to tell her that, and she told me I was being ridiculous. I suppose I was. Maybe it’s her lips. Maybe it’s her eyes, although she so rarely looks up at me.”
________________________

Those fingers on her cheek trailed down to her jaw. Minnie felt frozen in place.
“She’s clever,” he murmured. “She’s brilliant. Every time I see her I discover that I’ve underestimated her prowess. She ties me in knots.”

"Look up"

“A,” he said, “is for all the ways I love you.
“B is for ‘But I am going to make mistakes.’
“C is for Confession.
“D is for Determination.” Another page-flip. “E is for Eternity, because that’s how long it will take before I give up again. F—that’s for Forgiveness, because I think I’ll need a great deal of that, before I start to get things right.”
“G is for… G is for… G is for ‘Good heavens, I should have written these down.’ I’ve forgotten.”

So, I remain, as always a fan.

Oh, and many thanks to the awesome boss lady TJ (InD'tale) for getting me this book and Courtney Milan for allowing it.

Buddy read with Erika and Anna
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Dec 11, 2012 Nakeesha rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance, favorites, big-girl-shelf

At 70ish% this book had 3.5 stars from me.
Three stars for me entail MCs that I felt compassion for, a plot that had a satisfying ending, pacing that engaged me, and a theme that was fresh and inventive. Minnie and Robert were typical Milan constructs: a witty woman, who was in some way ruined, about to be saved by a man, who for some reason from his past, believes himself incapable of receiving love. I never seem to tire of this construct which is why I inhale Milan's books and stalk her website...more
At 70ish% this book had 3.5 stars from me.
Three stars for me entail MCs that I felt compassion for, a plot that had a satisfying ending, pacing that engaged me, and a theme that was fresh and inventive. Minnie and Robert were typical Milan constructs: a witty woman, who was in some way ruined, about to be saved by a man, who for some reason from his past, believes himself incapable of receiving love. I never seem to tire of this construct which is why I inhale Milan's books and stalk her website until new releases come out. In addition to Milan's love-construct, I love how she weaves themes in her writing. Physics and ostriches interweave as a mean-boy tries to 'change his feathers' in Unlocked. Scientist vs fortune-teller with a mix of elephants in Proof by Seduction. Mental illness, spousal abuse and taming a wild horse in Trial by Desire. Love it! Here its chess, healthcare and unions!

Robert is a Duke who was a pawn between his hateful parents as a child; Minnie a commoner who hides her true identity because of a scandalous past. It seems impossible that they could wind up together, but the fates conspire. She's witty and captures his imagination, he bumbles in his attempts at love and affection, and you will root for the HEA. Trust that I'm not spoiling anything when I say that the love story is tied into a nice, pretty bow around 70% and, if you're like me, you'll feel satisfied and ready to close the book. But then I looked at my Kindle and saw 70% and thought: What else could Milan possibly have to write about these two?

And then she pulls out the big guns!

At 80ish% it had 4 stars.
I'm not spoiling anything when I tell you that Robert and Minnie begin enjoying their HEA (after the best debacle of a love scene I've ever read!) and then the shit hits the fan! All Robert has ever wanted was a family to love and be loved by. He's kept this want buried in his being and the way Milan rips it from him I did not see coming. I was torn up about it. I ached for him. That was some damn good writing and plotting there, Milan. There were bits in the beginning of the story that I figured Milan simply threw in there to make the characters' backgrounds interesting -nah unh. She had a point, and she drives it home here.

But then that's not the end!

At the end of the epilogue is had 5 stars.
My first Milan book was The Governess Affair. That's where we meet Robert's father, the detestable Duke of Clermont. Its his actions that brings all the boys, and mothers, of The Brother's Sinister together. You have to read this prequel to truly appreciate what happens this point forward in The Duchess War. I actually applauded!(less)

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Dec 09, 2012 Keri rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2012-read, reviewed, courtney-milan, romance-historical, unicorn-virgin-w-m-historical

10+ Stars for me!!! This was such an emotionally charged book, I cried, I laughed...I did the shuddering sigh thing when you read the ending of a great book!!! Robert Blaisdell, the Duke of Clermont, has wanted only one thing from life and that was the true love of a family. But his horrible human of a father has pretty much ensured that was never going to happen. Minerva, as seemily shy wallflower of a woman. Minerva is contemplating accepting the hand of the only man that may ever ask for her...more

9 likes · like · see review

Jun 07, 2013 Olivia Waite rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: five-stars, historical-fiction, romance

I can't even pretend to be analytic here: I loved every single thing about this book. How the heroine is presented as interesting rather than beautiful, how she's at the mercy of her great-aunts' necessary protective strategies, but still chafes under the restrictions. How her friendship with Lydia is just as important as her relationship with the hero. How the power dynamics between classes can help or hurt, the value of allyship (though it isn't presented in those terms), and the compelling ne...more

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Apr 23, 2013 ARe Cafe rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: are-top-picks, vals-picks

An ARe Cafe top pick.

Miss Minnie Pursling was NOT the rodent the man who pursued her had dubbed her, but the man was the best offer of a husband she could hope for… if she could stomach the idea, that is. While attending another party that night she had not expected to be evading her soon-to-be betrothed, finding herself at the feet of a man, or getting accosted by her friend’s fiancé who had been digging into her past. She had her secrets and she couldn’t let the truth out now even if it brough...more An ARe Cafe top pick.

Miss Minnie Pursling was NOT the rodent the man who pursued her had dubbed her, but the man was the best offer of a husband she could hope for… if she could stomach the idea, that is. While attending another party that night she had not expected to be evading her soon-to-be betrothed, finding herself at the feet of a man, or getting accosted by her friend’s fiancé who had been digging into her past. She had her secrets and she couldn’t let the truth out now even if it brought her closer to the intriguing stranger that had found her in a compromising position.
Robert Blaisdele, 9th Duke of Clermont, quietly looked out the window to the street below him in the darkness of the room he had escaped to. His only thoughts were on what he hoped to gain from his personal mission. Watching the “object” revealing itself from the shadows, he didn’t expect to be disrupted by a woman looking up at him, hiding from two very rude gentlemen and apparently trying to evade her very own fiancé.

Minnie’s secret needed to be kept, but with the Captain digging into her past she could only hope that no one ever found out. After calling out the person she believed was responsible for the distribution of radical flyers, she was shocked that he didn’t throw her out. Instead, he made her an offer. An offer to woo and protect her reputation and to vow she would have a wedding proposal before he left town. Robert wanted to find out who was causing the problems that troubled the workers and owners for some time, and would sacrifice himself if it meant protecting Minnie and getting to the truth. Proposing marriage, he hoped she would accept, but when his estranged mother steps in, all is lost. When someone he loves is accused of his crimes he must decide what to do, out his new bride like her father did as a child, or let someone swing for something he didn’t do?

This book was a delicious treat from start to finish. Courtney Milan’s historicals never fail to entertain and I love her headstrong and smart heroines and her sexy and stalwart heroes. Minnie has gone through more than her share of scandal and trials throughout her life, and getting involved with Robert’s plan brings her again into another situation that leaves her vulnerable because of her trust in a man she loves. Robert never wanted the responsibility thrown at him but his strong determination to right the wrongs done by his father leave two of the people he loves in danger, thanks to his method. A very captivating read that was a well-deserved Top Pick for this month.(less)

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Mar 13, 2013 Waverly rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: historical-romance

Minne Pursling affects a diffident demeanor to deflect attention from her past. Unfortunately for her, the head of the local militia suspects is an agitator for social reform in factory towns, stirring up unrest in Leicester under an assumed name. Conviction would be a disaster, so she decides to discover the identity of the person writing and distributing handbills urging laborers to action. The historical period of Elizabeth Gaskell comes to life in Milan's well-crafted novel.

Some clever scen...more

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Mar 11, 2013 Mara added it · review of another edition

Shelves: romance, historical

I can't really decide what I experienced reading The Duchess War. There's no doubt Ms Milan is a great novelist, but my feeling were pretty extreme.

I moved from bored to excited, from disliking the hero to appreciating him, from liking the heroine to disliking her. It was a whirlpool of emotions.

The first half of the story was pretty interesting as a general plot, but quite bad on the romantic side. I would have clubbed him, if I were a character. Spoiled brat, your name is Robert.

Past half-poin...more

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Feb 26, 2013 Tin rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: 2013

To read my full review, visit: Love Saves the World

I think this was the perfect book to start the year with -- it's a sort of reset after a year of reading over 130 historical romance novels.

What Courtney Milan has done is to challenge our perception of heroes and heroines. Of dukes and duchesses and of the working man. And she has done so in a most sublime and wondrous way.

Robert challenges Minnie but, instead of cowering, Minnie stands unafraid.

"You have all those things," she said. "But the

...more

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Feb 19, 2013 Callixta rated it 5 of 5 stars

So well written and a so original plot. We don't know exactly what happened to the heroin. The duke is a modern man, gentle and respectful of other. can't wait to read the following books.

http://www.blue-moon.fr/spip.php?arti...

Avis de Callixta

Courtney Milan a commencé sa carrière chez Harlequin mais a quitté, au milieu d’une série cette maison d’édition pour voler de ses propres ailes. La tendance actuelle étant de voir des auteures auto-éditées séduites par les sirènes des éditeurs et de contr...more

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Feb 17, 2013 Rebecca rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-fiction, romance

This is everything a historical romance should be. The characters are interesting, well-developed and not stupid--while there are a bunch of conflicts, none of them are because people are being unreasonably stupid. They make some stupid decisions, yes, but they're in-character decisions that were set up well ahead of time. The plot makes sense, and is compelling even after the protagonists initially get together. The reasons keeping them apart are resolved in a manner that actually works. The hi...more This is everything a historical romance should be. The characters are interesting, well-developed and not stupid--while there are a bunch of conflicts, none of them are because people are being unreasonably stupid. They make some stupid decisions, yes, but they're in-character decisions that were set up well ahead of time. The plot makes sense, and is compelling even after the protagonists initially get together. The reasons keeping them apart are resolved in a manner that actually works. The history is meticulously researched, terminology is correct, and the political situation underlying the plot is specifically detailed in a way that makes it clear the author knows and cares for what she's talking about.

But most importantly, it's just plain fun. The dialogue is clever and engaging. The main characters are likeable, with distinct and memorable personalities. She's a spitfire with excellent reasons for hiding every trace of spirit from most people. He's a would-be revolutionary with a burden of wealth that both leads him to some really ill-considered (but understandable) mistakes but also to see behind her facade when no one else can. Many of the minor characters are equally engaging, with elaborate backstories of their own that promise further exploration in later novels. The duke's relationship with his illegitimate brother as well as his two scandalous friends are especially intriguing. And there are some surprising twists on archetypes, including a Lady Catherine-style encounter that turns out to be a very different kind of conversation than you expect. The relationships between many of the characters are touching, with the focus not just on the protagonists' relationship with each other. Steamy scenes are appropriately steamy, with a nice dose of realism thrown in. And there's just enough costume porn to satisfy longings for corsets and fripperies. It's a charming read, even if romance is not your favorite genre--there's really none of the stuff that gives the genre a bad name, and everything that makes it shine.(less)

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Jan 02, 2013 Jessica rated it 4 of 5 stars

I liked this, and I especially liked Minnie. It was refreshing to have an intelligent, non simpering female in a historical romance. I also liked that Robert, our swoon-worthy Duke, isn't some sexaholic rake. I don't read too much historical romance anymore because it seems like those are the two formulaic characters I see over and over again. My only minor issue is that Robert just seemed a bit... I don't know. He was certainly nice, and charming, but I wasn't swooning as much over him as I wis...more

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Jan 02, 2013 Lizzie rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: british-invasion, historical-romance, garment-factories, angst, read-in-2012

Most readers and reviewers seemed less than impressed with Robert, and that's exactly why I adored him to bits. How delightfully subversive was the dynamic between Robert and Minnie, especially when she fantasizes about whispering into his ear at Parliament, but then realizes she would have to attend balls!

Robert's not the brightest bulb, and he's grappling with some major privilege issues. However, I never thought he was looking for a cookie and in fact he flicked off a number of cookies with...more

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Dec 16, 2012 Vanessa North rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical, m-f

Okay, Courtney Milan, I feel you.

This book is getting a lot of sort of "meh" reviews, and I can understand them, and empathize with those readers who didn't feel they quite got what they wanted out of this book.

Meanwhile... I kind of want to stand on my chair and applaud because I got EXACTLY what I wanted from this book. I loved it, beginning to end. Milan is a masterful writer, and the way she brought social class discussion, particularly labor rights, into a historical romance featuring yet a...more

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Dec 13, 2012 Jannockj rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Duchess Wars
Full novel

I am a little bit in love with Courtney Milan's writing and her stories. My love affair started with the novella 'Unlocked.' I just bloody loved it. I got the tight chest feeling when I read it, like I was feeling the character's pain. So you have to excuse me when I become this fangirl around Milan's books but there is a reason. So my expectations are high when it comes to this lady.

Back on topic, first of all. I liked this book. I liked it a lot.
First reason I liked...more The Duchess Wars
Full novel

I am a little bit in love with Courtney Milan's writing and her stories. My love affair started with the novella 'Unlocked.' I just bloody loved it. I got the tight chest feeling when I read it, like I was feeling the character's pain. So you have to excuse me when I become this fangirl around Milan's books but there is a reason. So my expectations are high when it comes to this lady.

Back on topic, first of all. I liked this book. I liked it a lot.
First reason I liked this was because it's based in Leicester and I live in Leicestershire - I know, I know, that's not a good enough reason to like the book. However, stay with me, I have reasons. I have lived in Leicester so I can also pick up the geographical and historical additions Milan has included.
They are accurate, this implies, to this reader anyway, that the author has researched and has done so properly. The fact that the story is set in Leicester and not London suggests to me that this isn't going to be an ordinary regency romance. There's even a bit on social history but it isn't forced down our throat.

Our two protagonists are Minnie and Robert and I shouldn't favour one more than the other, but I do and its Minnie. Now she's a lady I would like to know.
She had modern sensibilities, so we as readers can relate to her but her behaviour and fears were still in keeping with the time. True, she was still unconventional but then again so was her upbringing. (no spoilers here).
That's not to say I didn't like Robert, I did. He was a gentleman who had fears that we could understand. In some regency romances, the fears of the hero can often be a bit... well... convenient. Irrational even.

I should definitely mention the chemistry between the two of them. The dialogue is sharp as can be expected from this author (don't forget my high expectations). For me, the part that made this novel go from good to awesome, were the small observations Robert makes during their conversations.

"Standing this close to her, he could begin to see the difference. She was still looking down, still acting shy and quiet so that anyone more than three paces away would have no idea what she was saying. But there was a little more excitement in her hands. Her lips twitched, on the verge of smiling."

Courtney Milan doesn't just tell the reader Minnie is brilliant, she shows us. She doesn't just tell us Robert thinks Minnie is awesome, we discover with him that Minnie is awesome. So we, the reader and Robert fall in love with Minnie together and in turn we fall in love with Robert.

Its those touches that to me, makes this novel.(less)

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Dec 12, 2012 Kotka rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book is very special.

In your typical Victorian romance these days, the intelligent, clever heroine might be a raging, prickly bitch (because of course intelligent women must also be bitchy). The hero would have a certain "woe-is-me" appeal and a miserable back story which he insists on drowning in either debauchery or a veritable cesspool of bastardly behaviour towards workers or women. Maybe he rescues orphans but is ostracized due to a Scandal. Or maybe he would be a spy, and she would be...more

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Apr 30, 2013 Lisa - (Aussie Girl) rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2013, romance-historical, nbrc-mango-tango

After reading and loving the prequel novella The Governess Affair I was so looking forward to the first full length novel of the Brothers Sinister series. Happily, it didn't disappoint!! The hero of The Duchess War is the legitimate son of the villain of the novella the physical image of his father but thankfully has nothing of the despicable temperment. In fact Robert Blaisdell, the ninth Duke of Clermont is a radical secretly writing seditious handbills determined to make amends for the terrib...more

3 likes · like · see review

Jun 02, 2013 Kate Copeseeley rated it 4 of 5 stars

"History is so disappointing, isn't it? I mean, all these women being so repressed all the time. In fact, it would just be so cool if I wrote a book about a reformer who would want to change all that bad nasty history stuff."

Oh lord. I like sassy female characters and I like reformers, but is there really anything wrong with writing a book that has characters who are actually normal? Like Austen did. Like Heyer did.

I'm not complaining about this book overall. Overall, I really loved it. I thoug...more

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May 13, 2013 Maria rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: historical-romance-that-rocked

I love the things that Milan's hero's say. The dialogue in her books is always so well done. And so well situated around their internal thoughts.

This one started off a bit slow, but it quickly heated up for me. I came to care about Minnie and I love Robert. Minnie was greatly hurt and forever changed by something her father did in the past. I wish we got some answers about why he choose to do what he did and what he was thinking, when it came down to that infamous choice he made when Minnie was...more

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About Courtney Milan

Courtney Milan lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband, a marginally-trained dog, and an attack cat. Courtney wishes she could say she has lived in numerous fabulous places. But aside from her husband, there is a distinct lack of fabulousness in her life. Instead, she is happy when standards in the Milan household hover above mediocrity. Her husband attempts not to kill people for a living...more

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“Do not pollute my perfectly acceptable figurative speech with irrelevant facts!” — 8 people liked it

“I earned this, fair and square." We'll, maybe it hadn't been fair. And maybe it hadn't been precisely square. Still, she'd earned it legally. Legally and...rectangularly. That would have to do.” — 6 people liked it

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