The Match of the Century

Marrying the Duke, Book 1

By: Cathy Maxwell

Narrated by: Mary Jane Wells

In New York Times best-selling author Cathy Maxwell's glittering new series, wedding bells are ringing...until the return of a rake throws a bride's plans - and heart - into a tailspin.

Every debutante aspires to snag a duke. Elin Morris just happens to have had one reserved since birth. But postponements of her marriage to London's most powerful peer give Elin time to wonder how she will marry Gavin Baynton when she cannot forget his brother, Benedict.

Already exasperated at being yanked from the military to meet "family obligations", now Ben must suffer watching his arrogant sibling squire the only woman he has ever loved. Joining the army saved Ben from sinking into bitterness, but seeing Elin again takes him back to the day they surrendered to their intoxicating desire.

As the wedding draws near, Elin tries to push Ben far from her thoughts. When danger brings them together, there is no denying their feelings. But can Elin choose love over duty?

©2015 Cathy Maxwell, Inc. (P)2015 HarperCollins Publishers

this is a great book. it has a fun plot

what a great story this is. Mary jane wells narration knocks it out of the park!

I was hooked

Mary Jane Wells is my favorite narrator for historical romances. This was my first book by Cathy Maxwell, and I’m eager to download the next book in the series.

Fun

This is a well written and fun story with interesting characters and enough twists to keep it glowing easily! Love it!

You can't go wrong with a Cathy Maxwell book!

Any additional comments?

I always enjoy a Cathy Maxwell book. This one didn't disappoint. I smiled and giggled a several times like I always do. I've given it a 4 star rating due to the inconsistency in the narration. For example, the heroine started with a bit of a Scottish accent, but didn't end with one. Her voice is very pleasant nevertheless. I can't wait to listen to the Duke's story, whose only requirement in a wife is that she be "kissable"!!!

Wonderful Romantic Unique Series

Start with this first book and enjoy the entire "Marrying the Duke" series. C.Maxwell writes engaging and funny romances that are unique stories! It's not easy to write a regency romance with a different twist and unexpected plots. The characters are likable and relatable. There is truth and humor and sensual romantic interludes in each book. M.J. Wells always does a wonderful job narrating. I did not want them to end.

Loved it!

The story is delightful! The conflicts makes it a page turner and I loved every minute I spent with the characters! Bravo!

Very entertaining...and funny

This series is one of the best I've heard from CM. The storyline is good and the characters are wonderful. There was even mystery with murders and attempted murder of the heroine. I'm usually pretty good at figuring out whodunnit, but I wasn't sure until almost the end. There is humor and a perfect love story. MJW is the absolute best narrator for interpreting and deliverring funny dialogue. The only downside is the last 2 or 3 chapters where the storyline became fuzzy...almost like the author lost control and the story went bzerk. That could have been due to inadequate editing. Regardless, I love this book.

Story was refreshing

Enjoyed all of the characters…story was refreshing…enjoyed the focus on the brothers…narrator was terrific as always

Okay

It's fine. It's got the typical things this genre usually includes like misunderstandings and things unsaid. Along with repetitive internal thoughts, immature leads, and plenty of filler. There are bad guys. There's a mystery as well as some improbable circumstances and coincidences. There are anachronistic phrases and lots of references to their childhood. So, for this genre, it's about average. Not bad, but not a standout.