DUKES TO THE LEFT OF ME, PRINCES TO THE RIGHT

Author: Kieran Kramer ISBN: 9780312374020 12/2010 HISTORICAL Publisher: ST. MARTIN'S PRESS
Time Period: Regency

THEIR ENGAGEMENT WAS A FAKE. Most women would not be pleased to be labeled a spinster. But Lady Poppy Smith-Barnes isn’t most women. In fact, Poppy has invented an imaginary fiancé, the Duke of Drummond, to deter unwanted suitors. A very useful fellow, this duke, until the real Drummond turns up and uses Poppy’s ploy to trap her in a betrothal. WILL THEIR PASSION MAKE IT REAL? A good spy flies below the radar. Which is why being named one of the Prince Regent’s “Impossible Bachelors” is so inconvenient for Nicholas Staunton. Every society female will be out to ensnare him. Nicholas needs a fiancée—and Poppy’s ruse is the answer. How could he have known she’d be a brazen, sensual siren with an irresistible taste for adventure? Now nothing less will do than to convince his fiery Poppy to revoke her spinster status…for good.

RRAH's THOUGHTS AND PONDERINGS:

The second book in the 'Impossible Bachelors' series, DUKES TO THE LEFT OF ME, PRINCES TO THE RIGHT is a strong follow up to WHEN HARRY MET MOLLY. The characters are strong and charming with delightful quirks that make them memorable.

More than just a romance, there's intrigue and comedy woven through the tale. Moments with animals—like a certain amorous goose and a gaggle of spoiled corgis—were hilarious, without changing the direction of the story or feeling out of place.

One mild complaint might be that the heroine Poppy has a bit of a hard time sticking to her convictions to hate the hero Nicholas, the first time he kisses her. Also a bit jarring is the use of 'Um' in the narrative. It just doesn't flow well with the language and feels off. In fact, there were a few historical inconsistencies, but nothing that couldn't easily be overlooked if you are reading for leisure.

The ending was a bit rushed, but considering the circumstances, it made sense that everything happened in a chaotic climax. In fact, many typical complaints that might be made against the storytelling can be dismissed simply because they mesh so well with the characters or what is happening.

The antagonists of the book were an especially fun part. Spoiled Russian twins that beg to get their comeuppance give a satisfying performance as halfwit villains.

Overall this is a delightful story with a fabulous cast and engaging plot. It can be read apart from its predecessor and still earn a spot on the keeper shelf with ease.

Sunny Lore