The Scandalous Vixen by Tracy Sumner | ARC Review

Series: The Duchess Society, #2
Traits & Tropes: pining hero; compromised into marriage; class difference; working heroine; marriage of convenience; reformed rake
Publication Date: 01.06.22
Genre/Setting: Historical; Regency; Dorset/London, England, 1823
Heat Level: 3
Rating: 4/5

Shipping heiress Helena Astley lives by her own rules and has been very successful at that so far, up until she allows one kiss from the duke she can’t resist, giving him an opportunity to enter her well-ordered life.

Roan Darlington, the reluctant Duke of Leighton, doesn’t put much stock in society’s dictates and isn’t interested in marrying one of their simpering misses. Helena is the only woman to ever truly ignite his interest and he’s been unable to forget her these last ten years. So, when they are caught together in a compromising position, he’s thrilled to offer her marriage. Helena is less than comfortable with the situation, but for her younger half-sister’s sake, she knows she must go through with it. Soon, the passion between Helena and Roan is undeniable and they must both decide if they’re willing to risk their hearts to make a real marriage.

I remain pleasantly surprised by how charming I found this book. Helena did work on my nerves at times with her hesitation and her fears, but Roan had those same issues, and both were understandable and rather relatable. I found it very endearing that both Helena and Roan had been holding back feelings for each other for years but getting them to admit those feelings was quite an ordeal. Nonetheless, the chemistry between these two was so strong and clear on the page that I really didn’t mind. In fact, I think the hard-won aspect made their HEA more satisfying, especially given the fact that they both demonstrated so much growth and willingness to acknowledge their weaknesses and work to correct them. I think the beauty of this story was in that aspect of having flawed main characters who admitted their deficiencies and accepted each other regardless. The unconditional love these two established in the end was very endearing and I enjoyed their story. This was my first read from this author, but it won’t be my last.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/3947684070

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4487478061