How to Deceive a Duke by Samara Parish ARC Review

 

Title: How to Deceive a Duke (Rebels with a Cause #2)
Author: Samara Parish
Publish Date: January 25th, 2021
Publisher: Forever
Source: Huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an ARC for review!

Fiona McTavish is an engineer, a chemist, a rebel—and no one’s idea of a proper lady. She prefers breeches to ballrooms, but her new invention—matches—will surely turn as many heads. There’s just a little matter of her being arrested for a crime she didn’t commit. And the only person she can turn to for help is the man who broke her heart years ago.

Edward Stirling, Duke of Wildeforde, will do anything to restore his family’s name and put his father’s scandalous death behind them. But when Fiona needs his help getting released from prison, he can’t deny her—even though it means she must live with him as a condition of her freedom. With the desire between them rekindling as fast as the gossip about their arrangement is spreading among the ton, Edward will have to choose what matters most to him—his reputation or his heart.

Penelope's Review

I was lucky enough to read the first book in this series, How to Survive a Scandal, and I loved it so I knew I had to get my hands on the second - and I'm so happy I did! This book really showcased the author's writing style and skill in my opinion. It's centered on Fiona McTavish and Edward Stirling, both of which we met in the first book. It can be read as a standalone, but is also a nice continuation for the series. 

Fiona was SUCH a great character. I'm so excited she got her own book as I loved the glimpses we saw of her in How to Survive a Scandal. Fiona is fierce and fearless, intelligent, brave, and resourceful. This book really showcased her talents and I loved getting to know her more. Edward I also ended up loving, but I do have to say he wasn't my favorite at first. I feel like it took so long for him to finally decide to put Fiona first over reputation, but there were many moments between the two that made up for this. 

The plot itself was great, with many twists and turns that I never saw coming. It was unique and interesting, and ended up being a quick read. I really liked the Duke's brother and sister and hope to see a book for each of them in the future - would love to know what becomes of them! Overall, another great read by Samara Parish and I'm looking forward to what comes next in the series!

Rating: 4/5 Devils!