Though fluffy and sweet, this book entertains and will have you engaged by the MCs and their clever/funny conversations.

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Lydia Whitfield is a young woman of good social standing in a time when your fortune and pedigree defined you. The only child of her mother and late father, she is the one who currently runs her family estate–though not without her mother’s brother’s “assistance”, and the land manager under her uncle’s thumb. Until she marries, she must also deal with her uncle’s ridiculous ideas concerning the property.
It’s because of these ideas that Lydia thinks it is time to get married to the man her late father had picked out for her; a man that would also be somewhat easy for her to influence when it came to things running smoothly. But he is not quite ready to marry, and wants to wait a few years, so Lydia tasks her new law clerk, Robert Newton, with drawing up a marriage contract that should work in her favor as well.
But it’s outside of Mr. Newton’s office that Lydia and Mr. Newton end up being kidnapped! This experience draws the two closer together, and it’s with Mr. Newton’s assistance that Lydia (when both have escaped) must find out who is trying to extort money out of her, as well as attempt to tarnish her family’s reputation.
Digging deeper into this investigation will bring forth uncomfortable and unsettling revelations in regards to people she thought she knew…but with Robert Newton’s help and their growing attraction to each other, she may be able to make it through this storm. (Did you like how I got all Harlequin with that?)
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I really found this book to be super cute and fluffy. It was also sweet in an almost exaggerated way, but honestly, I did not mind it at all.

I loved the pairing of Lydia and Robert! The two are obviously into each other, though a few things do stand in their way (including Lydia’s eventual fiancé); and their conversations with each other show not only similar humor, but similar mindsets as well.

I also liked the variety of secondary characters sprinkled throughout the book. Like Robert’s friend, the Lord Cassidy, who is challenged to a duel for an offense he does not remember, and to top it off, he doesn’t even remember the issuer of the challenge! This whole instance really was just so comical!

There are other interesting characters, but I’ll have to say that Lord Cassidy was by far my favorite.

The kidnapping and escape did bring an interesting bit of action/thrills, but nothing overly much. The experience does play a significant part in this story, but in a slightly comical way that doesn’t seem to make all that much sense when it happened. I liked how this experience in a way did bring a more natural –well, considering the circumstances as natural as one can– reason for the two to become so close in such a short time. It’s no wonder when people gravitate towards each other during what appears to be a life or death situation, but this pairing was so much from the idea of imminent death, but from the fact that these two genuinely liked each other. The circumstances only served to bring out more feelings for each other, though the two don’t actually address these feelings as anything more than they really can.

Anyway, long tangent aside, I really did enjoy this book and will be glad to recommend it!

Adorable. Delightful. Wonderful. Romantic. Lovely. These are some of the words that best describe Duels and Deception and I could go on and on. I'm a huge fan of Jane Austen and the Regency period. There's just something so romantic about it. The slow burn romance. The clothing and manners. *sigh* This book was something that I enjoyed reading from beginning to end. You really need to have this in your life!

The story is about a young woman named Lydia who is the heir to a fortune and a large estate. She's headstrong, intelligent and very witty. Lydia thinks she has everything figured out but when she meets an attractive law clerk here whole life is changes. So, while the plot was pretty straight forward and didn't really include any surprises, I just couldn't stop reading this book. Lydia was a fabulous main character. She wasn't portrayed as being too overly controlling or unfeeling, like many assertive women from the time period were. She knows what she wants, but is loving, kind and oh so feminine. Lydia is also very flawed and I enjoyed seeing how she developed and changed throughout the story. I also adored Robert, Lydia's love interest. The banter between these two was pure gold. Flirty and at times kind of awkward. Oh...I just loved it!

I really enjoyed how the story was written from two perspectives. It makes me really wish that Austen's novels were written this way. Wouldn't it have been fun if we also had seen Mr. Darcy's perspective? It really made me become emotionally invested in the story and the budding relationship between Lydia and Robert. The dual perspective also gave the reader a glimpse into social conventions of the time and what influenced how they approached each other. It just made the characters so real, like I was right there.

My only complaint was that some parts of the book were quite slow. I guess I wanted the quick, exciting pace to last throughout the entire story and was a bit disappointed when it didn't. Also, more kissing!!! There just wasn't enough kissing. Seriously! Other than that, this is a must read for all fans of Jane Austen and adorable, witty romances. I haven't read Anstey's debut Love, Lies and Spies yet, but can't wait to pick it up soon.

Delightful. Absolutely delightful. Those are the first words that come to mind when I think about this book. The whole story was just one rollicking, playful adventure from start to finish, and I enjoyed every minute of it. It's not quite 'fluff,' not quite serious romance, but all fun. One of the best parts was how the whole narrative kept up a tongue-in-cheek style of humor. I highly recommend this one, preferably with a glass of lemonade on a nice spring day.

Plot: Start with two dashes of witty characters, add in a scoop of mystery, and stir with a healthy dose of comedy. Voila! You have Duels and Deception, fresh and original. The mystery part was alright (I was in it for the characters), intriguing enough to keep me reading, but not nail-bitingly exciting. I did guess who might have perpetrated the kidnapping before the characters found out, but I wasn't for sure. It was interesting to see how everything worked out. However, I was more interested in the blossoming relationship between Lydia and Robert. Oh, those two. They are absolutely adorable together. All those grins. The ending, while predictable, wrapped things up in a neat bow.

Characters: I'm sure you've realized I adore these characters. Lydia and Robert. Robert and Lydia. The sensible, practical young lady who loves her estate and irritating family gets kidnapped along with the equally sensible but slightly more impulsive apprentice-in-waiting. Oh, the fun that ensues. Their relationship is most definitely giggle inducing, as both are in love almost immediately, but it takes them most of the book to realize it. Plenty of swoon worthy moments keep the fire burning between them, even though it seems like anyone and everyone (including themselves) are conspiring to keep them apart.

Setting: I'm a Janeite, and as such, I whole-heartedly approve of the English setting. Particularly since it takes place in Bath. (Too bad we didn't see any cameos from Jane Austen's characters!) It was well written: clearly, the author had done her research, and it came through. It seemed authentic and believable, and was the perfect setting for the plot.

Overall, I give this book 4 stars. While not terribly life-altering (it leans more to the 'fluff' side than the profound), it was a delicious read, and as such, merits my approval. Fellow Janeites looking for a quick, easy read will enjoy this one.

Age Rating: 14 and up

Content guide:
Language: 3/10 (name-calling--appropriate and archaic in type)
Sexual Content: 4/10 (mentions of ruining a woman's honor--how and why is not alluded to, hugs, touches, and embraces, along with a few kisses--slightly detailed)
Violence: 4/10 (threats of duels, peril, kidnapping, being knocked unconscious, etc)

*Thanks to Netgalley for providing a copy to review*

For more book reviews, or to request your own book to be reviewed by yours truly, visit gabriellenblog.wordpress.com

I received a digital copy of this book from Netgalley/the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Duels & Deception is a YA novel written by Cindy Anstey. I thoroughly enjoyed reading her first book- Love, Lies and Spies- so I was looking forward to returning to the Regency era and reading this book.

Miss Lydia Whitfield is an heiress. She does not harbor very many romantic sentiments, and plans to marry the baron whose estate borders her own. This is far from a love match, but aligning her fortune with his ancient name seems to be the best possible outcome.

So when Lydia’s solicitor sends his clerk to Roseberry, she does not notice a handsome young man- she sees an opportunity to draw up a marriage contract and solidify her future. It does not matter that her intended balks and begins dragging his feet about actually becoming her intended; this is the way things are supposed to be.

But then Lydia- and Robert!- are kidnapped. Who would do such a dastardly thing to such a nice young lady? And then of course, there are the titular duels- those come into play as well. It appears that Lydia and Robert have two mysteries on their hands!

Duels & Deception is an absolute delight. I certainly did not guess the “mystery” portion, and found myself somewhat surprised by the “big reveal”. Overall, despite the serious threats to Lydia’s reputation by villainous kidnappers, this is a very light book and there is a great deal of comic relief. It’s clear that Lydia and Robert care for each other, but they spend much of the book ignoring their feelings for the sake of propriety.

I would absolutely recommend Duels & Deception. This is categorized as a YA book, but I think it will appeal to fans of Regency books. Historical romance novels are known for their steamy scenes, and concerned readers should know that Lydia and Robert maintain a sense of propriety throughout the book and that nothing untoward happens. Anstey is a talented writer with a gift for wordplay and characterization. All characters- both the major players and the more minor roles- bring something to the narrative, and it is such fun to see the interactions unfold. I am already eagerly waiting for Anstey’s next book!

She's her father's only heir but she also has a guardian. He drinks too much, he refuses to listen to her, and he's running them in the red. He doesn't care about the crops, he just wants money for his own use. She wants to keep her home intact and functioning as it used to so her mother and other family members have a home. She decides to talk to her lawyer about it. But the man who shows up to talk to her is a young man. He's an apprentice to the older lawyer. He's also not bad looking...

Macmillans Children's Publishing Group and Net Galley allowed me to read this book for review (thank you). It will be published tomorrow.

Lydia is sure that she knows how her life will work out. She'll marry the man her father chose and be a dutiful wife and mother in the future. She has too many opinions to make that work with the milktoast man her father assigned her. She also doesn't love him. But she's working on a marriage contract anyway.

Then her life gets much more exciting. She's interested in Robert and makes excuses to see him. She and he get kidnapped and have to figure out how to escape. Then she gets nailed with gossip and scandal about them spending the night together. The fact that she was in the barn and he was on the outside can't be disclosed because that's just as damning.

Duels are illegal but there are two of them in this story. I especially liked the weapons used in the last duel. There's also attempted bigamy to get money from Lydia. Lydia also has another surprise before the end.

This is a light-hearted romance with plenty of action in between. I don't think Lydia's life is ever going to be boring. I really enjoyed this read.

This is a light Regency-era YA romance-adventure that I may recommend to readers looking for a cute and fun historical romance. Personally, I did not connect with the characters, and found the plot too predictable and the pacing uneven.

Chivalry and good manners were all well and good in a ballroom. However, being on a lonely road while rushing away from villainous villains was neither the time nor the place for excessive decorum.”

What a delightful story! Fans of regency romances will find romance, comedy, and even a little mystery and intrigue in this novel.

Duels and Deception is told from alternating points of views we are given a rich story of love, responsibility, and what a proper lady does with her time and money. Lydia Whitfield is in need of her lawyer to assist her with her estate. Robert Newton, her lawyer’s apprentice answer the call and their relationship soon becomes more than just a meeting here and there from your solicitor. An attempt to the safety of Miss Whitfield brings the two together as they make their way first to safety and then to solve the mystery of who exactly would be culprit behind her kidnapping.

Like Jane Austen, Cindy Anstey uses free indirect speech to help guide the interactions of the characters had the understanding of ritual that was proper and expected in that era. This allowed our characters a whole slew of backhanded comments and insults all the while keeping face and propriety.

The entire time I was reading this I kept snickering aloud to myself as I read the interactions between the characters. The actions of the characters were heightened even more as we read them from different points of views. Often we are pitched this genre of story from the female’s point of view, however, seeing the male point of view offers a few LOL moments.

“A niche was found for him next to Miss Elaine, who seemed to be suffering her usual eye affliction – batting and blinking – while leaning in closer and closer until Robert feared she might tumble from her chair.”

Our characters are given great personalities that develop as they have to deal with what is proper and what they really want to say or do. And what happens when someone is insulted? A challenge to a duel! Oh what fun duels are…miscommunication leads to the keeping of honor which leads to death.

This book was sweet and comical at the same time. The entire time we are wondering who done it all the while rooting for our unlikely couple. The characters are endearing, especially when they are drawing closer to each other despite the character flaws they both may have. By the end I was swooning and cheering on the two as they face their love vs. decorum.

Duels and Deception is a cute story written in an Austenesque manner. I love Jane Austen so I am frequently drawn to these type of stories. Some measure up better than others (Austen set such a high standard), but this one falls somewhere in the middle. The book is a light read. If you enjoy Regency era stories, you will most likely enjoy this one. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Although I enjoyed it, for some this may be a bit slow. Even though it has a mystery element, it is more heavily modeled on Jane Austin and there is a lot of description about the day to day life of the regency era. If you dont expect a lot of suspense and action, then I think you will enjoy this book.

Miss Lydia Whitfield, heiress to the family fortune, has her future entirely planned out. She will run the family estate until she marries the man of her late father's choosing, and then she will spend the rest of her days as a devoted wife. Confident in those arrangements, Lydia has tasked her young law clerk, Mr. Robert Newton, to begin drawing up the marriage contracts. Everything is going according to plan.

Until Lydia—and Robert along with her—is kidnapped. Someone is after her fortune and won't hesitate to destroy her reputation to get it. With Robert's help, Lydia strives to keep her family's good name intact and expose whoever is behind the devious plot. But as their investigation delves deeper and their affections for each other grow, Lydia starts to wonder whether her carefully planned future is in fact what she truly wants… (via Goodreads)
I received an eARC from Netgalley and the publisher, Swoon Reads, in exchange for an honest review.

The best way to describe this book is that it is frankly delightful. I'm not sure how to describe the writing style, almost like head hopping, but it absolutely worked for me. You get a lot of Lydia, and just enough of Robert to keep you completely intrigued.

Lydia was no-nonsense, but really caring. She wasn't exactly wedded to her social stature, but she respected it and enjoyed it as it was. I loved that she actively worked to be great as the de facto head of household, and to take care of Roseberry, but was still very traditionally feminine. I also loved that the idea of being late made her incredibly anxious.

“She was now overburdened with thoughts of tardiness and broken wheels while her solicitor's emissary thought nothing of being mysterious.”
Every time I thought I had this book figured out, it took a twist that surprised me, which is kind of rare for me when I read mysteries.

There were some absolutely great female friendships in this book. Shelly and Cora were devious and sweet, just like many of my own friends. I also loved that Shodster was looking out for everyone, even when Lydia didn't want him to.

The ending of this book had me howling with laughter, literally. I can't tell you anything because I don't want to spoil that beautiful moment for you, but holy hell it was beautiful. Also, proposals by ladies are awesome.

I really enjoyed this book. I think if you enjoy Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries or Miss Marple, this book is definitely something you'll love. This was a five star read for me, and I'll definitely be checking out Anstey's first book, Love, Lies and Spies!

Five stars

Rating: 4.25/5 Penguins

Quick Reasons: entertaining, beautifully written historical fiction; absolutely adore Lydia; realistic, delicious romance; a subtle hint of mystery and intrigue; Lydia's shift from "not a romantic" to "fully in love" is believable and well-done; oh my penguins, THE SNARK

Huge thanks to Cindy Anstey, Swoon Reads, Netgalley, and Xpresso Book Tours for granting me free access to a digital ARC of this title in exchange for an honest review! This in no way altered my read of or opinions on this book.


---"So what is the plan?"

"Hmm... well, plans are a little lacking at this moment. I had expected to rush in and simply grab you, but there are three guards by the door. I procured a thick stick, but three to one... well, not good odds."---


Holy penguins, is Lydia QUITE the character! I fell in love with her pretty quickly, honestly--her snark and personality are loud and vibrantly painted and she drew me in like a fine work of art. I kept trying to burrow my way into her heart, to better see and feel the world from her point of view. In fact, I'd say she's one of my favorite characters of recent reads--the fact that she's so super snarky and to the point only helped to cement her place in my list of favorite personalities. She's blunt, she goes after what she wants (for the most part), and she doesn't let society denote what she does with her life or her time. I mean seriously, she's a role model--and her story in this read? Only helped to strengthen the message that you can do ANYTHING you set your mind to, so long as you don't let the rest of the world get in your way.

The relationship with Robert-- ahem, Mr. Newton --started out a bit awkwardly and stilted. In the end, though, it was believably written and so, so endearing. Robert was written to perfectly match Lydia in wit and intellect--and helped prove that real romance and passion do exist in the world. The fact that they start off a little rocky, and each hiding their feelings for the other because of convention or rules-- only to finally drop the act --was realistic, though a bit frustrating at times for me (I just wanted to shake some sense into their hearts, that's all!)


---"I do beg your pardon, Miss Whitfield. I was not here for the door. It will not happen again."

"Worry not, Shodster." Lydia shrugged. "I learned how to open a door some time ago. The trick is to turn the handle."---


The slight, subtle use of mystery and intrigue helped to pull me more thoroughly into this read, and I really enjoyed that we got the story from both perspectives. I find what I miss most in books like this-- such as Pride and Prejudice --is that we weren't given a glimpse into the OTHER side of the story. This book took the guessing and the mystery away by giving us access to Mr. Newton's thoughts and emotions, which I really appreciated. This helped to make him less a "bystander" in the action of his life, but have a more concrete and tangible role in the story.

This was such a snarky, personality-filled, entertaining read, and I'm even more excited now to pick up more of Cindy Anstey in the future! Lydia's vibrant, strong-willed character and Robert's passionate intellect made for a positively wonderful match. The action of the plot, mixed with the subtle mystery, helped to keep me enthralled throughout. I definitely recommend this to lovers of historical fiction, vividly-painted characters, and subtle societal statements. This read enchanted me, penguins; maybe you should take a taste of the magic, too.

This book was totally cute. I'm realizing more and more how much I'm missing out on by not incorporating more regency romance into my diet.

I think what I loved most were the array of personalities and the humor, though I'm a huge sucker for this time period. I always crack up on how scandalous things like "escorting a lady" or "showing a bit of ankle" were back then.

The first half of the story was really fun. Lydia meets Robert in the first few pages - Lydia being a wealthy land owner and Robert being a lawyer on his way to her place to talk about the estate. Lydia is headstrong and intelligent, and the others that were set to help her manage her estate push back at her constantly. Hence, Robert comes in to take a look at what is really going on and to address any legal matters. Robert immediately finds himself in awe over Lydia and the two have instant chemistry in my opinion. He constantly is trying to make excuses to be around her.

Anyway, not long after they meet, Lydia gets kidnapped along with Robert. That was probably my favorite bit - especially the way it was told.. I was laughing so much. Blah blah blah happens (I don't want to spoil) and then they escape. The description of the book makes it sound like the whole kidnapping ordeal is most of the book, but be warned, that isn't the case. That bit is over really quickly.

My biggest complaint is that the story moved a bit slow in the middle and up until the end. It wasn't exactly dull, I think I just was expecting a bit more action (hence the title). But things did finally pick back up and I loooved the ending! (Even though I guessed who was guilty right off the bat.)

The best part was getting to read from both Lydia and Robert's POVS. I loved being in Robert's head.. he was so sweet and funny and just adored Lydia to pieces. He kept scolding himself for how much he kept thinking about her and my heart just swooned.

Charming and sweet, Cindy Anstey’s DUELS AND DECEPTIONS is an outrageously clever YA historical fiction that’s perfect for fans of slow burn romance and whip-smart dialogue. I liked it so much that the second I finished reading, I grabbed a copy of Anstey’s first book; she’s an auto-buy author for me now!

Miss Lydia Whitfield is an heiress unlike most her age: she cares more for the productivity of her estate and its crops than she does for Society or the marriage market. In fact, the unsentimental girl has willingly agreed to marry a man that even she admits is a buffoon to ensure her family’s position and on-going security. Even if a certain handsome law clerk, one Mr. Robert Newton, is driving her to distraction whilst drawing up the marriage papers. Doesn’t he realize she’s trying to be noble and self-sacrificing? But soon Lydia fins that try as she might, she can’t control everything around her…least of all her heart.

Everything about DUELS AND DECEPTIONS is delightful, and I found myself smiling the entire time I was reading the book – which was in one sitting, something I rarely do these days. I was particularly impressed by Anstey’s ability to breathe new life into standard romance tropes, such as the classic “kidnapped and forced to spend time together in close proximity.” All my romance readers out there know exactly what I’m talking about. There’s mischief and plotting aplenty in this one, with someone plotting to ruin the Whitfield family name – and Lydia’s reputation – in one fell swoop. Who’s behind it all? Is it Lydia’s horrible uncle? Is it her jealous cousin? Is it someone altogether different? The only way to figure it out is if Robert and Lydia spend more time together sleuthing, obviously. The two of them trying to come up with excuses to call upon one another was absolutely adorable.

Romance isn’t the only charming thing about DUELS AND DECEPTIONS, though: there’s also great representation of female friendships and family relationships aplenty. One of my favourite scenes in the book is one in which Lydia and her two best friends save their best gossip and chatter until their male companion zones out and falls asleep. So funny! The many Whitfield family dinner scenes were also well done, bringing to life the atmosphere of a strained, uncomfortable meal that somehow has a strong sense of camaraderie throughout it all. I also loved the relationship between Lydia and her mom, who starts as a Mrs. Bennet-like character riddled with “nerves” but becomes more complex throughout the novel.

Anstey has an eye for detail, bringing historical accuracy to everything from a dinner party with unexpected guests to taking in the waters in Bath during the rainy season. A lot of research clearly went into writing DUELS AND DECEPTION, and I appreciated that social graces, fashion, and even (im)proper duelling laws were all observed. Aside from a few moments where character’s quips felt just a hair too modern, there weren’t any inaccuracies or anachronisms that I could spot. And those moments were so funny that I forgave them almost instantly. Fair play to you, Cindy Anstey!

Whether you’re a diehard fan of historical romance or you’re looking to try something new and freshen up your genre mix, DUELS AND DECEPTIONS is a charming read that’s guaranteed to leave you smiling.

Anstey has done it again with another fun, clean romance in Duels and Deception! I absolutely loved her previous release, Love, Lies and Spies, which is also a standalone like this one because these books are just plan fun.

To start, I love the writing style. The pacing is good, alternating between action and plot movement, and character development which slows it down a bit and gives the reader a chance to breathe. These books aren't exactly action packed -- they're historical romances, not epic fantasies or space operas -- but there is still tension between the characters. The romance, the family dynamics, the villains and the threat they pose to the protagonists, you get the idea.

All of those worked because of the main characters, Lydia and Robert. I thought Lydia was both ingrained in her role in society but also willing to step out of that role when she didn't believe something was fair. A bit of a contradiction, that one. She remained loyal to her family despite how horrid they could be to her, including her father's wishes to marry a baron that she had accepted but felt nothing toward. I also loved her quirk about being punctual and staying on schedule, a joke that came up pretty often.

Robert was the valiant knight from a lower "ranked" background than the baron, coming to Lydia's rescue when no one else did. I liked that he had aspirations for a future that didn't involve nobility. And unlike many stories in the genre, he wasn't even a higher ranked noble which seems to be the commonality in historical romances. It made him different. Just as I remember that in Anstey's other book, Juliana loves ladybugs, I will remember that Robert wanted to be a lawyer.

That's the thing about these books. They are not the best books I've ever read. Romances almost never are. But I love reading them. I devour them. These are a bit clean for my taste in romances but the characters more than make up for it. Their interactions are spot-on and you can't help but love the protagonists and dislike the antagonists just as you should.

In particular, I was waiting for the "big scene" in this book that's advertised in the blurb, the event that would kick off the romance, and it came much later than I expected about a quarter of the way through the book so there was a lot of time spent on showing off each character but I wanted a bit more for that first part. Fortunately, I really enjoy this author so I had no reason to put it down because of a bit of slow pacing.

Overall, a fun read much like Love, Lies and Spies. These are entertaining, clean historical romances with plenty of witty banter and delightful characters. You can bet I'll be picking up any future books by this particular author and adding them to the collection because they're well worth it!

Humor, romance and a dash of mystery make this YA novel set in the Regency Era a perfect escape from contemporary times. As Lydia Whitfield approaches her 18th birthday, she must make a decision: to marry or not to marry the Lord next door. Enter her lawyer’s clerk, Robert Newton, and the decision may not be as easy as she once thought. Add a kidnapping twist into the narrative, and Lydia’s life becomes completely changed. Though the villain in the story is very easy to identify, the humorous tone and developing romance story keeps the narrative flowing. I wanted to keep reading to find out if Lydia would follow her heart. Lydia is a very strong female – in some ways wise beyond her years – which I like seeing in young adult novels. Recommended for teens that enjoy fun historical romance novels with a strong female protagonist.

As delightful as "Love, Lies and Spies" -- and with fewer bugs.

Lydia is considered something of a bluestocking but she is fabulously wealthy and unofficially engaged to the son of her late father's best friend. Lydia is determined to go through with her father's plan for her life as she considered him to be wise. He always put the needs of the estate first and she feels she must do the same. Then she meets Robert Newton, the new apprentice to her solicitor. Mr. Newton stirs up unexpected feelings in Lydia from the moment they meet and she starts to question her path.

I liked Lydia though I also wanted to smack her because she could be annoying regarding her fiance and although she is supposed to be intelligent she didn't always come across that way. She is at least better than her silly relatives. Robert was more likable.

Duels & Deception is a lighthearted Regency romance for teens but it is rather bland and the action is slow paced in spite of the description. At times I wanted to scream with frustration because of the pacing but as the book went along it became a little more interesting. There is some humor (at the expense of the ridiculous characters) as well as romance and while I wish the pacing was better, it is not a bad book and it grew on me. I think readers who are more patient than I would appreciate it more. It reminded me a little bit of Patrice Kindl's Keeping the Castle and the tone was somewhat reminiscent of Gail Carriger's Etiquette and Espionage (though without the steampunk elements) and the recent film Love & Friendship.

Last year, when I read Anstey's debut, Love, Lies & Spies, I was both charmed and hooked. The adorable little historical rom-com was just what I need and had me staying up on a school night to finish it. So when it came to this novel, I was beyond excited!

The thing is... it didn't quite feel the same? I mean, I didn't expect it to be because it was about a different cast of characters. Still, though, once I started this book, it had a similar feel to Love, Lies & Spies, and yet...

Siiiiiiigh. Nevertheless, Duels & Deception was a load of fun. Accurate or not, Anstey knows how to enchant readers with adorable hints of romance and lots of witty commentary. Her characters are fun and it makes for an entertaining read. Duels & Deception was all of that: cute, slow-burn romance, quirky characters, and also an interesting mystery!

I have to say that the romance was my favourite part of the novel! I loved both parties, Robert and Lydia. From the get go, you could tell they were attracted to each other and it was sort of funny how they kept either avoiding or pushing those feelings away. I appreciated that Anstey had them start off as friends and slowly grow to more as they spent more time together. I also liked how their conversations were easy and fun, full of banter and provided a lot of comedic relief.

Yet... as much as I appreciate that, a lot of the time, the dialogue felt... very flat. Dull. It's hard to say but I just couldn't really feel it? Some of the long winded conversations just didn't work out for me and it was the main reason I couldn't really love this novel as much as I wanted to.

Anyway. I really did like Lydia. Though she was a bit overbearing, trying to control nearly every aspect she could manage--her estate, her marriage--seeing her fall for Robert was really nice to see. It definitely went against her plans so the way she grew as a character was quite amazing. I also loved her friendship with her best friend, Cora. Lydia's friendship helped Cora through a hard time and it was great seeing them interact.

Robert was also quite charming! He was witty and very transparent with his feelings and I thought it was so endearing. He has his own problems on the side, especially with a friend, and I loved how dedicated he was to helping him.

Now, the mystery. I won't lie, I didn't expect much from it. It was well plotted though, but fairly easy to figure out who was behind it early on. Quick run down: Lydia and Robert, because he tried to save her, were kidnapped. They managed to escape but something didn't feel right about it. Despite that though, someone was holding what happened that night over Lydia's head as blackmail. Whenever that was directly mentioned, I kind of wished I didn't know who was behind it. This really doesn't affect my opinion of the book, but y'know. Small things.

Overall, I was a bit disappointed by this novel, but I'm still glad I got to read it! Despite my misgivings, the book still entertained me. 3.5 stars!

This was easily one of my most anticipated reads of 2017 and it didn't disappoint!

The best part of this story is the chemistry between the leads. Lydia and Robert were absolutely perfect for each other and it was apparent right from the start. They had fantastic banter between them and I devoured every moment of it.

Which is why I wish the kidnapping aspect was elaborated on more because it was the highlight of the novel. Watching these two trying to escape and working together was such a joy to read. It was witty and fun--adjectives you don't expect to use in a historical novel that has a kidnapping--but Anstey has a talent for writing entertaining stories no matter the circumstances.

I did find the momentum of the novel slowed a bit after the kidnapping chapters. The mystery of who is after Lydia is enticing but unfortunately, I had a pretty good idea of the culprit before the big reveal. Nonetheless, the novel I wasn't sure how everything was going to go down so I liked that surprise.

This is a perfect read for fans of historical romance who love quirky, witty characters and a romance that has you swooning from the start!