I'm a fan of Ms Hunter's books - The Rules of Seduction and By Arrangement are all my time favos! So, of course, I was glad to read her new book!

In The Most Dangerous Duke in London, Adam Penrose, Duke of Stratton, comes back from France in order to learn the reason(s) why his father had committed suicide 7 years ago and takes revenge on the one(s) who led the late Duke to such an extreme action.
Trying to avoid Stratton's possible revenge, the Dowager Countess of Marwood, member of an enemy family to the Penroses for ages and possibly among the ones who had accused the late Duke of treason, offers one of her granddaughters, Emily, as a bride in a marriage that would put an end to the old feud.
However, Stratton prefers the other granddaughter, Claire, and starts to pursue her. But Claire, used to having her own way and running a journal for women, is not interested in marriage, especially to a man who may just be pursuing revenge.
I really enjoyed reading Book #1 in Ms Hunter's new series (Decadent Dukes), as it approaches my favorite plots: revenge or love?; "dangerous" heroes; bluestockings and women trying to be more than their expected roles in society. Although I must point out that not all these plots were fully developed - for example, Ms. Hunter could have explored a bit more the Duke's dangerous (or dark side).
I'm looking forward to Book #2, about the Duke of Langford.
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Publisher's Description:

Three sinfully handsome dukes, three scores to settle, three hearts about to meet their matches. All in one thrilling new trilogy from New York Times bestselling author Madeline Hunter . . .

NOTORIOUS NOBLEMAN SEEKS REVENGE
Name and title: Adam Penrose, Duke of Stratton.
Affiliation: London’s elite Society of Decadent Dukes.
Family history: Scandalous.
Personality traits: Dark and brooding, with a thirst for revenge.
Ideal romantic partner: A woman of means, with beauty and brains, willing to live with reckless abandon. Desire: Clara Cheswick, gorgeous daughter of his family’s sworn enemy.

FAINT OF HEART NEED NOT APPLY
Clara may be the woman Adam wants, but there’s one problem: she’s far more interested in publishing her women’s journal than getting married—especially to a man said to be dead-set on vengeance. Though, with her nose for a story, Clara wonders if his desire for justice is sincere—along with his incredibly unnerving intention to be her husband. If her weak-kneed response to his kiss is any indication, falling for Adam clearly comes with a cost. But who knew courting danger could be such exhilarating fun?

My Thoughts:
I wish there had been a prequel to this new trilogy so that I would have had a little background information on these characters.
I did feel these characters were nicely developed but as I said before I would have liked a little more background building up to their meeting and subsequent attraction to each other.
I did enjoy the read but at times it felt like the second or third book in a series instead of the first one.
The fact that Adam has a score to settle is apparent from the start. It is also quite evident that although she desires him and he, her, Clara is not interested in marriage.
Is there any way that these two can reconcile their differences and reach their own version of Happily Ever After?
I read this book over a period of three days. It was my weekend read and though I often read more than one book over that time period, it turned out to be my primary read.
I gave this book 4.25 of 5 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 4 of 5 flames.
I look forward to reading the next installment in this series "A Devil of a Duke" due to release May 2018.
I only wish the release date was not so far away.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this title which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

I have read many of Madeline Hunters books and was so looking forward to this one as they have always been exciting to read. As much as I enjoyed the book , I found that this one did not grab me. The characters seem to give in to their desires far to quickly without any real suspense. The mystery in the back ground I felt was like an after thought.
I enjoyed the support characters and look forward to their stories as they seem to have a little more character than Adam does. Although the Ton is afraid of the Duke I didn’t feel it during the story. Don’t let this book stop you from reading other books by Madeline Hunter. She is an excellent writer and I am sure the next will be even better.

While I'm a fan of Madeline Hunter's work, I didn't enjoy this book. The main male character left a bad impression on me from the beginning of the book - he struck me as someone more than happy to manipulate and bully people in order to get his way. He wasn't entirely unlikable, but I wasn't able to "buy in" to the characters' relationship because of this. Furthermore, I felt one of the biggest side plots - the main female character's work editing a magazine - was rather unsatisfying in its resolution (or lack thereof).

It's been a while since I last read a book by Madeline Hunter, and I forgot how much I enjoy her writing style and multi-faceted characters. The Most Dangerous Duke revolves around Adam, the Duke of Stratton, and his plan to avenge his father's reputation after he committed suicide due to rumors of treason. When summoned by the family of a nearby estate who has been engaged in a generations-long feud with Adam's family, Adam is intrigued by the feisty Clara, who cares nothing for Adam or her family's plan to settle old debts. Adam sets out to seduce Clara and carry out his revenge for the family's feud, but very quickly is forced to abandon this plan as he falls in love with her. Clara, meanwhile, has no intention of marrying and giving up her independence and substantial inheritance. As a result, Adam is forced to try to convince her that their growing love can survive notwithstabding both of their families' dark deeds.

Clara and Adam are both very engaging characters who seem fully realized. Both are strongly shaped by their familial histories but, upon learning more about each other, start realizing that their parents and grandparents were not who they thought they were. They each struggle with this newfound gray area where they previously only saw black and white, and seek a way to forge their own identities out of the shadow of their relatives.

The only minor complaint I have is that it ends very abruptly. Hopefully the next book in the series picks up shortly thereafter and can give a few glimpses into how Adam and Clara are carrying on.

Thank you to Kensington/Zebra and Netgalley for providing an ARC for review!

3.5 stars

I was intrigued by the description of this book and was excited to delve into it. The book is very well written and I applaud Ms. Hunter on that. The mystery surrounding Adam's father was interesting, but early on, I had figured out most of it. While I would not call Duke of Stratton "dangerous," he came across to me as more brooding and angry. Does that make one dangerous in Regency England?

I was more impressed with Clara's character. I loved that she was an independent woman who had interests of her own. Owning the journal was such a huge part of her life, I was disappointed at the end that she only makes Stratton promise "not to interfere in friendships with bluestockings." I felt that if Adam and Clara were truly to committed to one another, that Adam should know what other passions Clara pursued. The other thing that bothered me is the fact that Adam and Clara carried on their affair for weeks and yet, not one mention of a possible pregnancy. That seemed an oversight.

All in all this is a quick read. I look forward to reading the next story in this series.

I received an eARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.

I loved the character of Clara. She is such a strong, independent character. She knows what she wants from her life and she doesn't let society and it's rules and regulations stand in her way. I was thoroughly intrigued by the mystery surrounding the feud between the families of Clara and Adam. The interaction between Adam and Clara was such fun to read. Adam trying to win Clara over and her not wanting to be under any man's control. The interaction between Adam and his friends added to the story as well as Clara and her group of women associates. The story kept me reading to find out the reason behind the feud. This is a wonderful story, I really enjoyed it.

My honest review in return for this ARC. Absolutely intriguing story. Well written with great characters and plot that will keep you engaged. Fortunately this is the first in this series. Unfortunately the next story is a year away. My recommendation is you put this on your to be read list and watch for the next one as well.

This book was a delight. I loved Clara and her independence, honesty and intelligence. Adam was as aristocratic as an aristocrat could be! I loved the interaction between these two and I had a smile on my face throughout the book. The first scene is my favourite where hero meets heroine.
The added mystery regarding the plot against Adam's father was enjoyable. Although the solution to the mystery happens rather quickly and in the last few pages of the book.

I am excited about this new series! And I can not wait for book 2.

Madeline Hunter has outdone herself again! The first book in the first in a new series called "The Decadent Dukes Society" and "oh my" what DUKES!!!

Adam Penrose, the Duke of Stratton has returned to England after being in France for years and he is determined to find out who was responsible for his Father's death. He knows that his Father committed suicide because he was the one to find him. There were rumors that when Napoleon escaped from exile on Elba and made his way back to France, his Father aided him because his wife and Adam's Mother is French. There was no proof ever given and Adam will do anything to clear his Father's name and he knows just where to start. There has been bad blood between Adam's family and The Earl of Marwood's family for at least two generations. The most prevalent rumors are that the previous Earl of Marwood was the instigator of the whispers of Treason.

Lady Clara Cheswick is in mourning for her beloved Father The Earl of Marwood. She and her Father were very close and when he died he left her independently wealthy so she would not have to depend on her brother for support. Clara is a unique young lady, she has decided that she never wants to marry and give up her freedom and property to any man. She has enough money to do anything she wants with her life.

Adam remembers Clara as "Bright-eyed and vivacious" when she had her Season. Now she is a alluring grown woman who is independent, impertinent, and according to her brother, a shrew. Adam sees something very different in her and is attracted to her right away. A seduction of her would be fitting revenge against the Marwood family.

Clara and Adam are both compelling and intriguing characters that are the hallmark of why I love Madeline's books so much. There is so much depth to her writing that you cannot help falling in love with Clara and Adam. This story is powerful, enthralling and intricate, you will never want it to end. The best way I have of describing Madeline's writing is that I am addicted and never want a cure. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a truly wonderful Historical Romance.

This is 5 stars of yummy goodness. Adam Penrose, Duke of Stratton and Lady Clara Cheswick manage to fall deeply in love amidst a generations-old family feud. There's also the lingering stink of treason and family secrets that reveal the presumed guilty as innocent. As if that weren't enough, there are hot sexy times, loyal friends and the ever looming threat of a dual.

Need I say more folks… okay, one last thing. This is a definite must read.

I received an ARC of this book, via Net Galley, in exchange for a fair and honest review.

I’ve always loved reading Madeline Hunter’s romance novels. The same is true for this first installment in her new Decadent Dukes Society series. She continues to write not only great love stories, but also includes mystery, intrigue and fascinating characters.
The Most Dangerous Duke in London is a tale of two families who have for generations been at odds with each other, sort of an English Hatfields & McCoys feud. In a supposed effort to bring the families together Adam, the Duke of Stratton is offered to marry the youngest daughter of the late Earl of Marwood. He instead is taken by the oldest daughter, Clara, who has no plans to marry and be dependent on any man thanks to her father’s very generous legacy given to her at the time of his death. His pursuit and eventual courtship of Clara makes for a thoroughly enjoyable tale, as they both try to unravel the secrets behind this on-going feud.
I’m so excited that we got to meet the next two Dukes in this series, as they played a pivotal role in the outcome of this installment. All in all, a great love story with interesting characters, dialog, and plot. Looking forward to more in this series. Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for providing an advanced copy in return for an honest review.

Another fabulous story by Madeline Hunter! I could not put this book down; can’t wait for future stories in the series!

Adam Penrose, Duke of Stratton is the hero of this story. He has been in France, and suddenly returns to London; and everyone is leery about how he will behave. Upon his return, the Dowager Countess of Marwood, of the family with whom his has a long standing grudge, requests that the past be laid to rest. What ensues is a battle of wits and definite twist away from the plan envisioned by the Dowager Countess. Rather than agreeing to the Dowager’s plan regarding Adam marrying her granddaughter Emilia, the Duke of Stratton sets his sights on Emilia’s older half-sister Clara. Clara initially wants nothing to do with the Duke, however he keeps turning up when she is hoping to avoid him. Both Adam and Clara are keeping secrets from each other; and as they learn more about each other and spend more time together, their relationship grows. They fall in love, but problems from the past keep them apart, but only for a short while. Once the truth is revealed they get their happily ever after.

The relationships between all the characters, the witty dialogue and the mystery about what happened between the fathers of Adam and Clara, make for a delightful read.

The Most Dangerous Duke In London was an engaging read with characters, both main and secondary, who really were enjoyable. I loved the revenge plot which was rather twisted, the feuding families, the need to clear ones name, and yet fall in love. It has everything a great romance needs and now I am looking forward to the next book in the series! A very well written book that was a pleasure to read.

I really enjoyed this first in a new trilogy! Adam Penrose, the Duke of Stratton, returns home to England after a five year absence to investigate his father's death. There is a scandal attached to the death and he is very aware of the silent stares and unkind words directed his way. He is also suspicious of his neighbor's attempts at reconciliation by marriage, but goes around that by becoming interested in the elder daughter, Lady Clara. Clara has always been rather independent and since her father provided for her future in his estate, she enjoys more freedom than many young ladies.
There is a strong attraction between Adam and Clara and it was interesting to read about their attempts to keep the affair secret when Stratton had already proposed marriage. Clara wants to be very sure that Adam is not just interested in her as a form of revenge against her family. Both of them learn interesting information about their familial past and how to let all of it go.
Many thanks to the publisher and to NetGalley for a copy; all opinions are my own.

I received a copy of this title from the publisher for an honest review. Madeline Hunter's new series gets off to a fantastic start with The Most Dangerous Duke in London. Adam, Duke of Stratton, has returned to England of years of exhile in France after the death of his father. Although not convicted, rumors of treason for assisting Napoleon after his escape from Elba lead the former duke to take his own life. Intrigued by an invitation from the Dowager Countess of Marwood about settling bad blood between the two families, Adam meets Lady Clara, the eldest daughter of the recently deceased Earl of Marwood. Despite an offer from the Dowager to marry Clara's younger sister, Adam is drawn to Clara's strength of will and spirit and immediately decides that she is the woman for him. The development of the relationship between Clara and Adam is extremely well written and occurs naturally without feeling forced or rushed. Adam and Clara are perfect examples of what I have come to expect from Hunter; both are mature and rational adults who have very understandable motivations and vulnerabilities. Adam's desire to understand more about the circumstances around his father's death is immediately understandable as is his reaction after learning unsettling and unexpected facts. Clara is strong and doesn't see marriage in her future at the beginning, but after spending time with Adam, she is willing to reconsider her views on marriage. Hunter does a wonderful job of keeping the reader guessing of the exact facts around the allegations of treason from so many years ago. I look forward to the next book in this series.

4.5*
I think I’ve found my favourite Madeline Hunter’s book so far. Although I always appreciate and like her books, they sometimes seem to be a bit below my expectations – but not this one. The Most Dangerous Duke in London doesn’t fit that category. I really enjoyed it and couldn’t put it down.

The base of the plot is related to revenge, and these are usually my favourite plots, but in this case, the story was so well put together that what mattered wasn’t so much the revenge plan but the growth of the relationship between Adam and Clare.

Clare is a strong, independent woman, who knows what she wants and is very smart and intelligent. Adam is a duke that finds himself confronted with a choice and at that moment he sees Clare, in her horse, at the top of a hill – and, being she the daughter of a deceased man who might have had something to do with Adam’s family tragedy, he cannot put her aside and let her go – she was at the right place, on the right time.

Clare’s family wants to use her younger sister almost like a sacrifice to placate Adam’s supposed anger and rage, but when he sees Clare, he doesn’t even think twice about her little sister.

Clare and Adam have an important attraction, but more than that, what matters is how their relationship grows with friendship and companionship.

With a plot that has mystery, betrayal, connections to France and the war, as well as a romance that keep you holding on to the book, this has become my favourite book by Madeline Hunter.

The Most Dangerous Duke in London combined a number of romance tropes that I was sure would appeal to me. Bluestocking heroine. Revenge thwarted by lust and then love. Combine that with Madeline Hunter's sensuous writing style and you have a winning combo. Unfortunately, I struggled to get through this one. I admit that this is partly due to the insanity of life at the moment, but I also had a hard time getting into the story. Something about Clara and Adam just didn't snag my attention; I just wasn't rooting for them.

What I really liked about this one is the fact that its heroine, Clara, was an editor of a literary journal, something that she has to keep secret. I loved the fact that Clara was a trailblazer and committed to that in her other choices (i.e. moving to an independent residence, eschewing marriage). I would have liked the hero, Adam, to have a greater appreciation for this facet of Clara. In fact, Adam doesn't even know that Clara publishes this journal even at the end of the novel. He knows she has a secret about something but not exactly what that secret is, other than one that doesn't particularly trouble him. Since there was such emphasis on Clara being such a unique woman for her time, I was let down by the fact that this significant aspect of her life was kept a secret from this dude she's going to marry. For me, this signalled an incompleteness to the romance of the novel.

Personal taste aside, Hunter's lovely and subdued writing style was in full force. While I found something missing in the romance, passion was not it.

Ultimately, The Most Dangerous Duke in London was a nice read but not one that I felt had enough meat in the romance. I liked both Clara and Adam as characters, but I finished the book feeling unconvinced about their relationship.

Madeline Hunter has done an amazing job with the start of this series. Adam, the Duke of Stratton has been living in France after his father committed suicide over speculation that he was involved in treason. He now returns to England to search for evidenve of his father's innocence.
Lady Clara Cheswick daughter of the former Earl of Marwood is a budding bluestocking spinster who has a secret career as a publisher of a women's journal. Her family has long been feuding with Adam's family. Her grandmother has decided that in order to protect Theo the new Earl, they would offer up Theo's sister as a sacrificial offering to the Duke as a bride. By joining the two families she hopes to put the feud to rest and protect her grandson from being killed by the duke in a duel.
Rather than accepting the young Emilia as a potential bride, Adam sets his sites on her more independent, strong-willed sister.
These characters grab your attention from the first and you can't help but want to keep reading to see what happens. Adam and Clara created sparks from the minute they meet and you can't help wanting to keep reading to see how they come together. In addition, there is the suspense of finding out the real reason why Adam's father committed suicide.
There is a tension throughout the story with Clara trying to balance her independent life as a single woman with the thought of marriage and what that may do to effect the life she has chosen. Will marriage take away everything she has worked for? Madeline Hunter has created a great story with great characters and you can't resist loving them.
I received an advance copy of this book in return for an honest review.

Thanks Kensington Books and netgalley for this ARC.

Another great one from Hunter. This series brings a fresh look at love, passion, and dukes.