Dukes Prefer Blondes (The Dressmakers Series)

Chase is simply the best author writing in this genre. We had a long wait for this one but it was worth it. Read the whole series. Read everything she has written. You will love every single book and novella.

I knew that Clara and Raven’s story would appear on my kindle at 12:01 A.M. and I almost set the alarm for it; that’s how much I wanted to read Loretta Chase’s latest story from the dressmaker series. I’m glad I waited until morning.
No doubt Loretta’s dialogue between the h and H is still chock full of excitement, fun and laughter. The beginning seemed to drag a little and I admit to skipping some pages looking for that spark, but the end of the story was terrific as it was full of excitement, fun and laughter too. Do I have some I wishes? Of course I do. Since I wasn’t writing and rewriting this book, I wanted a little more.

1. Wanted to hear the Duke of Clevedon say something like, “my dearest girl, how happy I am for you now that you have found someone to love” or something as maudlin as that.
2. How about Thomas, her brother checking up on her when she was so ill. So hard to suspend all rational thought and think that Raven and her maid were the only two taking care of a sick Clara.
3. Wanted to hear from those Noirot sisters, just their individual voices. How does the Dutchess of Clevedon feel as she approaches motherhood for example? I missed hearing their voices.
Although the romance was there for me to read and the writing was as usual, par excellence, I missed some of the interactions that might have occurred with the rest of the family. It was as though the previous characters were paper dolls and not part of the family at all.

I could picture Clevedon and Clara’s brother helping or assisting with the rescue I missed the Noirot’s scheming up something to help Clara achieve her desire to wed Raven or helping with the planning of the plot to get the villain. I guess I’ll have to let my imagination recreate parts of the story as I now have to wait a full year before I read one of Loretta’s masterpieces again. Thanks for all the great reading moments, Loretta.

I was happy the Dressmaker Series included the story of Lady Clara Fairfax. She is in all the previous 3 books of the series. In this book I was disappointed. I got tired of her sermonizing about all the things society does not let a lady do.

According to the book summary, Oliver Radford aka Raven is supposed to be difficult & obnoxious. He isn't. I hoped that Radford would not be like most of the hero's in the books Ms Chase invents; most have been pretty easy going and nice. So I was looking forward to a bit of personality clashes. There really wasn't any of that except for Lady Clara's temper tantrums. I did love Book 1 & 2.; but by book 3 I am so done with the Dressmaker series. After awhile, all the story seemed to resemble one another

This hardly seems like an appropriate ending for the seamstress series. The noirot sisters barely feature and the character interaction between Clara and radford lacks passion and substance. I'm quite disappointed to have paid for and read this.

This must be the slowest book in history. "My inner self" died about a thousand times, while the story dragged along in chopped up chapters.

The H and h is not badly written, but there is way to much happening, and there are several times you think (hope!) that THIS is finally the end, but nooo... And when the book finally do end, I didn't feel satisfied.

Clara and Oliver Radford/Raven are my new favorite fictional couple!

I loved everything about this book--such lovely, witty writing; fantastic banter between the hero and heroine; Raven's complete lack of social skills and somehow endearing obnoxiousness; the description of Clara's outfits--did I mention the hero and heroine are my most favorite couple ever? ;)

Gah! I just want to bask in the warm glow this book has left me with. I'm afraid to start reading something else because it might not be as awesome. (But I will--because, books. I'll be brave and take one for the team.)

I'd only read the first book in this series ( Silk Is for Seduction ) up until this point, and therefore missed most of the previous Clara parts. Clearly, I'm going to have to go back and read the rest; it won't be quite the same without Oliver Radford, but just knowing he's in her future will be enough. (Plus, the Noirot sisters are such fun. I've had the other two books on my TBR for ages...there's no excuse, really.)

I highlighted so many favorite parts in this book, but won't put them all here so that other readers can have the joy of discovery for themselves. I'll just put in two that really show the two things I love most about this book; first, the quick wit:

He was a man, an attractive man if one overlooked the obnoxiousness. But women had to overlook men's personality flaws, else nobody would ever wed and/or reproduce and the human race would come to an end.

(LOL, preach it, sister!)

...and the second, the lovely romance under all the bluster and banter:

She laughed.

And sunshine broke out in the shadowy bedroom.

His heart soared with a happiness so rare he wasn't sure happiness was the name for it.

See? He thinks things like that and I just melt. Sigh.

Such a lovely romance. Excuse me while I go back and re-read all my favorite bits again...

Rating: 4 1/2 stars / A

This has quickly become one of my all-time favorite HR novels!! The characters were so realistic and relatable, and while they were not without their faults, I loved following their story. There was so much witty banter and good humor between the two MCs--Raven is very logical and reasonable and therefore comes off as uncaring and callous. Lady Clara is your typical daughter of the TON--well-mannered, polite to a fault, and groomed to become a duchess someday. However she longs for freedom and was impressed by Raven's intellect and his ability to be utterly unaffected by her beauty that she can't help but continue to seek him out. As a result, Raven is forced to reevaluate his preconceptions about her and realize that she is intelligent and that he has come to value her input and her presence in general.

Overall, I ADORED this novel. I would not change a single thing about any of the romance, [slight] angst, mystery, adventure, danger, possessiveness, murder plot, obnoxiousness (on Raven's part), or frustration (on Clara's part) contained in its pages. Everything came together and meshed so beautifully and perfectly, and I savored every single written word. I cannot recommend this one enough, and I will definitely be checking out more of Chase's other novels!

[Original review posted on Goodreads on 08-06-18.]

Short Version: I adored the hero and heroine and can’t remember another time I liked both protagonists so much. The plot was very good, but not quite great, so read it for Clara and Oliver, their every moment together is a delight.

Long Version: Looking forward to Clara’s book in Loretta Chase’s Dressmaker’s Series, I was not disappointed. You have to love it when it feels like a book was written with you in mind. Dukes Prefer Blondes featured a Nick and Nora Charles style courtship but, as it is a historical romance, in the Regency. Chase uses the narrative structure incredibly effectively to both maintain the brittle, consciously closed-off outward appearances of the main characters while still sharing their true feelings and the effect they have on one another. All books with an omniscient narrator can do this, but this genre really lends itself to it, and few novels have done it quite so well as Dukes Prefer Blondes.

Clara is beautiful and rich which is hard to feel sorry for, but she is also considered the top marital prize of her season and her time as a trophy is wearing on her. Men pursue and propose to her, but only for the potential notoriety of being the man who gains her acquiescence. They don’t really see her; they talk at Clara, not to her. She is “wrapped in cotton wool” and stifled in every attempt to assert, not even her independence, but her brainpower and energies in anything other than the most safe and stultifying activities. Her mother is very concerned about social status and any notion of womanhood which maintains it, so Clara is allowed to participate in charity work and her efforts bring her into contact with an impoverished young woman looking for her missing brother. When Clara needs someone to help her locate the boy, she is brought to barrister Oliver “Raven” Radford.

Having embraced a nickname originally intended as an insult, Raven is the cousin of a duke and the son of a younger son who made good practicing law. He’s not touched by scandal, but his family is, though they don’t care – at least not until he falls for Lady Clara. A man of searing intellect and deficient in tact, he is startled and fascinated by the goddess who has appeared before him and appears to have wits on par with her beauty, not that he will admit that out loud, although occasionally his powerful reaction to his magnificent equal overwhelms him long enough for some imprudent physical contact. Raven helps Clara out and she plagues him until he marries her. He knows they are a bad match on paper, as deeply as he may want her, but he cannot resist and she does not play fair. In the end, they find a surprising way forward and Clara gets the freedom she hoped for, but not in the form she expected.

The sub-plots about Raven’s contentious relationship with London’s underworld did not work as well for me as the love story, but as long as Raven and Clara were in the same room, I didn’t need anything else. Dukes Prefer Blondes had all the smart banter I love and managed to convey true depth of emotion without any flowery speeches and dramatic declarations which would make people trained not to express emotion uncomfortable.You want to read this book, you’ll want to re-read it, too.

I finally got sick of reading so many murder, terror, thriller books. Yet I was not in the mood for some regular, heavy fiction either. So the tried and true solution is to switch genre fiction to another genre to refresh the head. Thus, I turned to the romance genre and in particular, an old favorite, Loretta Chase. Chase's worst book is a B and I can't even remember what it was I read it so long ago. Most of them are As, beginning with her classic, "Lord of the Scoundrels." This book is in keeping with that high standard.

I realize the title is a bit of a turn off but I know that the authors get no say in the titles. These are picked by the publishers' marketing departments as are the covers. So don't hold the title against Chase. She is no twit.

The hero in this book is an English barrister. A lot of people hate him but he wins a heck of a lot of cases, a lot of them criminal. His father was also a barrister. They had to work for a living because they were far down the rung of those who could inherit the family dukedom. However, the people closer to the dukedom lead rather dissolute lives so are falling like bowling pins. Neither of these barristers want the dukedom because it is impossible to remain a barrister when that occurs.

The heroine is Lady Clara, daughter of a Marquess. She is quietly suffocating to death because all anyone will contemplate as her future life is as a duchess. She doesn't want to be one but she is more than qualified to get the job done. She wants to have adventures instead. And the adventures she wants involve London's criminal element and no one knows them better than a certain barrister.

With that, the game's afoot. A very enjoyable read especially after spies and murderers galore in my other genre.

I’ve always liked Loretta Chase’s books and I’m embarrassed to admit that I haven’t read a book of hers since the publication of Mr. Impossible (that was in 2005!). When the opportunity came to review her newest, Dukes Prefer Blondes, I couldn’t pass up the chance! Dukes Prefer Blondes is the fourth and final book in The Dressmakers series. If you haven’t read the previous books, it’s not necessary to enjoy Dukes. I haven’t read the books and if there were any spoilers, I didn’t find any nor did Chase focus on past incidents involving the other books.

We have really good character development. Lady Clara Fairfax is one of London’s most sought after beauties and judging from the number of marriage proposals she receives every few weeks, she’s not afraid to speak her mind. She’s also a champion of those who can’t defend themselves and desperately wants to be taken seriously. Clara dreams of a world where she’s not tied to constraints and puts on two different facades. There’s the haughty aristocrat that most of the ton (upper society) sees and then there’s the intelligent, free thinking, and courageous woman that only a select few get to see. I’ll admit, Clara is a bit difficult to like because you want her to pick a face and stick with it, but in the end she wins you over. Then there’s Oliver “Raven” Radford, aka Mr. Know It All. His father is a younger son of a Duke who made his way as a barrister and Oliver follows in his footsteps. All his life he’s had to deal with the Duke’s son, his cousin Bernard. I really liked Oliver and he’s a man who knows what he wants. You’ll love him! We have a few secondary characters that a play a vital role including Bernard. I won’t go into detail, but let’s just say despite what we read, etc. his storyline saddens me especially towards the end. I personally loved Fenwick, a street urchin.

I debated with the rating between a three and a four and in the end, I decided on a four for two particular reasons. The first has to do with Clara and Oliver’s conversations. This is where Chase’s talent shines-their conversations were full of sharp wit that I even had trouble keeping up with them! I had to go back a few times and reread sentences and then pause for a bit to marvel at how beautifully written they converse with one another. The second has to do with the historical tidbits. Chase is well known for her thorough research and I personally really enjoyed reading about the law and having a hero that’s a barrister. If you’re wanting to know more about 19th century law and how the British Pound has evolved, Chase includes an afterword and it’s a great source to look at how she writes and where you can find more information. I love it when authors do this!

At this point you might be wondering why I was leaning towards a three and it has to do with the overall pace and mystery. The pace at times was slow and I wanted a bit more action. But it’s the mystery surrounding a child’s disappearance and who’s involved that takes a back seat to the Clara / Oliver romance. I would have liked a lot more of it and in the end it felt rushed.

Overall, I enjoyed Loretta Chase’s Dukes Prefer Blondes. If you’re new to historical romance or are looking for a well developed romance, I highly recommended this one.

**This review is posted on my blog**

Loretta Chase is an established historical romance writer, and I’ve loved her books. This one isn’t my favorite (that would be Lord of Scoundrels) but I did enjoy it quite a bit! The atmosphere is intoxicating, and the characters are always original and quite interesting to get to know and watch grow throughout the book. In fact, that’s usually the best part of her books–the character development. And this one was superb!

Lady Clara Fairfax met Oliver “Raven” Radford when she was not quite nine years old. He was fifteen and had come home with her brother Harry from Eton for the holidays. They were visiting Vauxhall for a fête and somehow, Raven ended up babysitting her. When his cousin Bernard, who’d made it his lifelong mission to hassle Raven, sprang out and started hitting him, Clara jumped onto his back and started whaling on him. The confusing scramble ended with Clara the proud owner of a chipped front tooth, forever marked by their first meeting. And that’s how he recognized her, years later on the streets of London.

Clara is quite different from most of the young ladies of her station in life. She wants to be valued for her intelligence, not her looks. She’s very interested in doing things and is frustrated by the encumbrances society places on her. When Bridget Coppy, one of the girls that is employed at the charity she currently patronizes, The Milliner’s society for the Education of indigent females, is concerned about her missing brother Toby and confides in Clara, she wants to help her. But “ladies” aren’t allowed to do much of anything–only men can. When Bridget’s concern about her brother causes her to get unwanted attention from the miscreants who ‘ve gotten him in their clutches, it becomes even more imperative that something be done. Luckily for them, Raven Radford is on the scene and already heavily engaged in battle with the groups who are causing harm to young Toby. With his help, they’re quickly able to find and return Toby to his sister as well as stop the thievery ring.

Raven Radford had grown up knowing that while he was part of an aristocratic family, the likelihood of ever being the Duke was slim. His innate intelligence and his odd looks as a young man had gotten him lots of ridicule from his titled relatives. His father George was a younger son of the Duke of Malvern, and had worked as a solicitor for many years, marrying late in life–unfortunately, to a divorced woman! Scandalous! But why not when you’re a younger son? Raven had attended all the correct “public” schools but had followed his father’s footsteps into the law, always assuming he would never be called upon. Even when he was helping Lady Clara, he was always aware of their differences–he was in trade, she was of the aristocracy. But what happens when you fall in love with a Lady?

It’s a little like watching Lady and the Tramp. You’ve got the guy who’s really from a good family but is firmly in the trades. You’ve got the wealthy aristocrat who’s longing for something more. Put them together and MAGIC! There are lots of things standing in their way, but hopefully, true love will win the course. And then, fate lends a hand and we see why being trained to be a Duchess might come in handy…

Chase mixes societal issues like ragged schools in with women’s rights and yet still nods in deference to the elegance of the age with her historical romances that bridge the gap between educating and entertaining. As always, a delicious read! Thanks!

Lady Clara Fairfax is the most beautiful woman in London. Men too numerous to mention have proposed marriage. She has refused each one. None of them recognize who she is. They simply look at her face and never delve any deeper.

Oliver (Raven) Radford is a possible heir to a Duke, but he practices law and is a hugely successful barrister. Radford is the type of man to see exactly who someone is, including Clara Fairfax.

Clara contacts Radford when she wants someone to search for a young boy who has been absorbed into the criminal world which uses children to commit crimes. Clara promises that if he will not assist her, she will search for the boy on her own. That threat is enough to make him agree to not only search, but to include her in the process.

This is a story that provides a great deal of information about the fate of children in 19th century England. If a child was born into poverty, there were few options in life. And criminals took advantage of that.

As the plot moves forward, the reader not only sees what life was like among the criminal element of London, but also what life was like for a “lady”. The limitations were smothering especially for a very intelligent woman like Clara.

Radford is not only drawn to Clara's lovely face, but he also admires her brain. Finding someone who can follow his thought processes acts as an attraction. He is brilliant and finding a woman who is intelligent is a wonderful surprise for him. Clara is not simply a pretty face, but she wants to make an impression on the world. She has created some small steps in her life to do just that.

This is a very romantic story. There are wonderful conversations between Clara and Radford. The two of them are bright and humorous and very focused in their lives. Both of them are characters who draw the reader into the story. I wanted the two of them to find a way to happiness because they were such wonderful people.

Each of the secondary characters are very well done. Whether they are a villain or one of the good people, I got the impression that I knew someone like them. It was easy to understand motivation whether or not it was good motivation.

The adventures and the mystery which is woven through the plot kept me turning pages. There are no dangling threads. The reader is presented with a well written story which is entertaining as well as informative.

I had never read a book by Ms Chase. Now I feel as though I have missed a great deal in my reading life. I intend to change that.

In keeping with my obsession for all things historic romance, I honestly believed I had read more of Loretta Chase’s work than I have. Yet, this is the first I’ve read of her Dressmakers series even though it is the fourth book, but aside from reading from the start of the series (an issue I remedied with Christmas) I can’t think of a better way than to start in with Dukes Prefer Blondes.

Clara is the daughter of a Marquess, exceptionally beautiful, much desired by several suitors and exceedingly bored by it all. Bored to tears actually, or in her case, bored into some rather impetuous decisions and behaviors. I adored Clara – she wanted to be seen as “more” than just another pretty face or decoration for some man’s house, and her curiosity leads her into both learning more about the plight of those less fortunate, but actually standing up to those who are behaving badly. (I loved that she went at the gang leader’s second in command). While commendable in theory, Clara’s actions have brought her into the limelight of some very nefarious men, known for extreme solutions to issues that may stand in their way.

Oliver (Raven) is in line for a title he doesn’t really want from relatives that have an uncanny knack for doing themselves in through stupidity. A barrister, like his father, his childhood was spent being bullied by these self-same cousins through school: they were (and proved it) lunkheads to the end, while Oliver is quite observant, intelligent and not above taking a few risks if the resulting odds are favorable.

These two are delightful together: moments from their first encounter that showed Clara was far from the “proper” girl that was expected of her, and little has changed. She’s desperate to not be bored to death, but aside from a need for excitement, her burgeoning understanding of the world, and the good and evil within it spur her onward to do more for those who will d from it. From her initial encounter with Oliver, where she is taken by his presence and cool demeanor to her desperate determination to have him see more than a pretty and spoiled unmarried woman in front of him, their conversations and growing affections are a treat to behold.

Dialogue in this story pulls you in, puts you in the middle of the action and shows the core strength of both characters, while introducing secondary characters, attitudes and showing the growing esteem between them, adding to the character development and plot in almost equal measure. With interferences from family, servants, Oliver’s partner and the criminal element, it’s easy to see why Oliver not only came to love but truly enjoyed Clara: seeing deeply beneath the pretty girl to a woman who not only was strong and intelligent, but passionate, caring and a perfect option for a wife. Now I only have to start this series from the beginning to find more hours of enjoyment.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

I had an adventure into the intellectual banter that takes place between a man and a woman of like minds. There was much here for me to enjoy and eagerly turn the page for the next encounter. I gave 4stars for this witty, intellectual repertoire between two individuals.

Oliver Radford has been forever know as the Raven and in other circles the Professor. His antics have him sent in a profession that hs allowed his vast intellect to grow and be nurtured. At every turn he finds something that needs to be solved or righted.

Lady Clara is an beautiful/intelligent bird trapped in her gilded cage of society because she is a woman stuck in the 1800s and noble rankings. She is stuck feeling like the pretty picture no one can touch but wants to possess.

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Dukes Prefer Blondes is the first book I’ve read by Loretta Chase, and I adored it! The banter in this was an absolute delight to read – if her other books are anything like this one, I’m excited to read them all! As for the story in Dukes Prefer Blondes, I really enjoyed Clara and Raven’s romance. These two are highly intelligent people who couldn’t be more different, and yet feel so right together. There was a lot more depth to the both of them that surprised me, so if you love characters who are more than meets the eye, I highly recommend this book.

"Her beauty surrounded her like a great stone wall. Men couldn’t see above, beyond, or through it. They certainly couldn’t think past it.
This was because men only looked at women. They didn’t listen to women, especially beautiful women."

Lady Clara Fairfax is tired of the rules of society that suffocate her because she’s a woman of status and beauty. No one sees past her outer looks, so when she gets biweekly proposals from men who don’t really want or know her real self, she rejects them all. She wants a husband who appreciates her brains more than her looks, one who will stimulate her mind and not make her go crazy with boredom. And the only person who seems to fit this bill is Oliver ‘Raven’ Radford, a barrister she asks for help to find a missing orphan.

Raven may be related closely to a duke, but he’s firmly a man of the working class. He’s dedicated to his work as a barrister and has always prized intelligence above all else. So he’s pleasantly surprised that the beautiful Lady Clara can keep up with his sarcasm and banter. The witty remarks between them are probably my favorite part of the book – the two of them had me giggling so much! You can also feel a certain chemistry between them through the banter, which sets up the romance for them perfectly.

"Her Raven. Brusque and caustic. And funny. Unlike her, he said whatever he wanted to say. It didn’t matter where he was or with whom.
She, meanwhile, had to closely inspect in advance every gesture, act, and word for possible violations of ladyship rules. Except with him."

I loved how Raven was the only man to appreciate Clara for who she really was. She never had to pretend with him – she came alive around him, and vice versa. It’s a very slow, gradual romance that develops between these two characters, in between witty dialogue and sweet, more tender moments. There are also some great adventures as they try to find Clara’s missing orphan, and they come across some dangerous gang members. Overall, Dukes Prefer Blondes is a highly satisfying story, with fantastically well-written characters and even better banter. I can’t wait to read more from Loretta Chase!

Disclosure: I received this ARC copy via Edelweiss. Thank you to Avon Books and Loretta Chase for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.

* * *

Lady Clara Fairfax has been part of the Dressmakers series since the first book, where she is jilted by the Duke in favor of Marcelline Noirot, even then, she made an unforgettable first impression, and I wondered when she would get her own happy ending.

I appreciate the length of time that Loretta Chase has given Clara to grow and mature -- our heroine is now a lady who has a keen (almost too keen) understanding of society and of the way the world works. She is devoted to her causes, and dearly loves the few friends she has kept through her "mis"adventures in the Dressmakers series. Clara is wary of the shallowness of society, but realizes that she must be part of it. But a greater part of herself is devoted to the Milliners' Society for the Education of Indigent Females, which the Noirot sisters run. When one of the children falls into a bad crowd, Clara is determined to save him -- and she enlists the help of an old acquaintance: Oliver Radford, a barrister.

Loretta Chase continues the theme of matching really incredible, intelligent, and strong heroines with irascible, yet charismatic heroes. Oliver is a difficult person to get close to -- he's all prickles and biting words, but Clara isn't intimidated by him. I love how she's able to stand up to Oliver, and even respond so cleverly to him. This is the novel's greatest strength: Loretta Chase is very, very good at flirtation through witty banter, and Oliver and Clara dance around their mutual attraction with each encounter. There were, admittedly, times when it got a bit much, and I found myself wishing that Oliver would change his tone (a little bit) when he talked to Clara, but he maintained that same exasperated, challenging, teasing tone with her.

Clara is, I think, the more complex and layered character of the two. She's a lady who has played Society's marriage game several times, and lost. She knows she is valued for her looks and title, and she longs to be more, to do more. She isn't naive, but she displays an innocent optimism and faith in the people around her, perhaps this is why she sees more to Oliver than I do.

Clara did not run screaming from the room. A lady didn't run screaming from anywhere unless her life was in immediate danger.

This was simply another marriage proposal.

...

Today was Lord Herringstone's turn. He said he loved her. They all said so with varying degrees of fervor. But being an intelligent girl who read more than she ought to, Clara was sure that he, like the others, merely wanted to claim the most fashionable girl in London for his own.
- loc 197 to 201

The author challenges our hero and heroine with a very gritty (and dangerous) obstacle: one of the children in the school that the Noirot sisters founded has been recruited by a known criminal -- not just any petty criminals, but one of the more deadly ones -- and he doesn't take too kindly on Oliver and Clara interfering with his operations. Because of his work, Oliver has had previous dealings with Jacob Freame. He knows the dangers and hazards of the area, which is why he is very reluctant to expose Clara to it.

Clara's exposure to the underworld does a good job of highlighting the social differences between her and Oliver, but what is amazing about Clara is that she isn't afraid to get her feet dirty. Clara is determined to save the child, and she doesn't really consider how the situation might affect her. It is partly reckless, but mostly brave -- other ladies would have heeded Oliver's warning and allowed him to handle everything, but Clara is tired of sitting and waiting. For her, now is the time for action.

Clara held up her hand, silencing him. If she didn't immediately seize control, they would. They'd treat her like a child, the way men usually treated women, especially young women. They'd murmur soothing things and send her on her way. They might even tattle to Papa's solicitor. She doubted any lawyerly rules of confidentiality applied to women.

Do not show uncertainty or anxiety, she commanded herself. For once in your life you can do something more productive than decline marriage offers.
- loc 442

The other obstacle is something more personal: while Oliver is related to a duke, he isn't in line to inherit the title, and Clara's family wants her to marry into the peerage. Oliver has lived with this sort of discrimination his entire life -- his cousin, Bernard, the current duke, made his life in school difficult. Oliver lives in a strange state of limbo: he's had to prove himself to his titled relatives, and, at the same time, to his fellow barristers. At this moment in his life, he is nicely settled and well-respected, and recognized for his own achievements, but, with Clara's entry into his life, it makes him realize that there might be something more for him to pursue. (In that, the title of the novel spoils this particular part of the plot. Because of the title, we know that Oliver will inherit the title -- all the struggle that he goes through to prove that he, by himself, is enough, is negated. Perhaps it was the author's idea of creating an ironic situation -- that Clara's parents objected because they did not know, and we did, but there's a part of me that wished he remained a barrister.)

There were moments when I felt Oliver was in danger of becoming a flat character -- he was consistently cantankerous, and I kept waiting to see a different side of him. It comes out, but not as often as I had thought was needed to prove that there was more to him than his gruffness. It is his default, yes, but I wanted to be surprised by him. I have to admit that, when the softer side of Oliver comes out, it's hard not to love him. There is a reluctant tenderness and openness to him that makes him quite adorable. (Though he would probably sue me for saying that.)

I guess the author also realized that she needed to soften Oliver's edges a bit, and so, gifted him with an incredibly interesting set of parents. His father married his stepmother when he was 50 years, and his stepmother was a divorcee, who was decades younger than George Radford. In the chapters where Oliver visits his father and stepmother, you could see warmth and tenderness in their dynamic. It's heartbreaking for Oliver to see his father, a barrister like himself, slowly decline. It's the elephant in the room in the Radford family -- and, is perhaps, one of the reasons why Oliver tries so valiantly to keep himself so together, because the alternative would be to completely fall apart.

While not my favorite in the series, Dukes Prefer Blondes is a great story and a wonderful addition to Chase's Dressmakers series.

Firstly, I adored this book; the characters are interesting, the story is page turning and it is an altogether fun book. The hero and heroine’s witty banter from day one is extremely entertaining as they match each other in intellect and spirit, and Oliver’s countdown to each point he makes is hilarious (firstly, secondly…)

Oliver Raven Radford, Esquire was an obnoxious boy and an even worst man. He is extremely intelligent and rarely speaks with a filter; it makes him a very successful lawyer but not a great catch in the eyes of the ladies of London. Years ago he met a very precocious young girl when he was school mates with her brothers and is stunned to find her just as interesting and intelligent as ever when he meets her again on the streets of London. She needs the help of a lawyer for a young woman, and seeks out his practice because of its anonymity, since a woman of class is never supposed to worry about things like this and seek out lawyers.

Lady Clara Fairfax has been fending off marriage proposals all Season. At last count, they were coming in twice a week. She is a beauty but also wants much more from a marriage than to be looked at and never spoken to. She also gives her services to the Milliners Society for the Education of Indigent Females, which is what has brought her back to Oliver. In a roundabout way, she gets him to help her find a missing boy who is in the hands of a horrible gang, and the more time they spend together, the more they enjoy each other, when they are not arguing that is.

I truly enjoyed this story and if I had not already sent in my list of top books for the year, this would have been on it. The author brings us two unforgettable characters that have incredible chemistry. The attraction is apparent but they spar and jab at each other before they give in and realize how they feel.

Clara is a wonderful heroine; she is wicked smart and can go word for word with a man who recognizes a woman that can hold her own. She wants to find a man who will treat her like an equal and is very intrigued when she meets Oliver again after so many years, he does not think she remembers him until she calls him the Professor, a nickname given to him in school. She enjoys spending time with him because of how he treats her which eventually leads to deeper feelings.

Oliver is so likeable, even when he is obnoxious, I love that he speaks without thinking because he is true and pure. When he meets Clara again he is fascinated with her and her personality. He knows she is pretty, but it is her intellect that has him transfixed. He helps her with her causes in the beginning because they overlap with a problem of his own, but when danger is getting closer he realizes what she means to him.

Secondary characters play important roles; I enjoyed the scenes with her maid Davis, a steadfast woman who keeps her eye on Clara and I also like Oliver’s partner Thomas Wescott, a loyal friend who knows what makes Oliver tick. There is also a sinister person who wants Oliver dead. Even though Oliver has made many enemies around London because of his profession, most leave him alone, but not Jacob Freame, and the danger Freame brings spreads to Clara and those she tries to help.

The plot progression was done well, I found myself wanting to read without stopping as I enjoyed the witty dialog between not only Clara and Oliver but also Wescott, Davis and many others that surrounded them and I could not stop from snickering when her parents put Oliver on trial when he dares to propose to her, it is a very funny scene with Oliver coming back with answers for every argument they have. This is the fourth book in the Dressmaker’s series and although we see many familiar faces, the author keeps the reader informed so it can easily be read as a standalone. The author also gives us many interesting facts at the end of the book, and it reminds me of the blog she writes with another, fascinating things about history. All in all a delightful historical romance with intriguing characters, a bit of danger and of course a wonderful love story.

Review also at Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind

Copy from the publisher for an honest review

Lady Clara comes from a loving, titled, and rich family, she also happens to be stunningly beautiful. Even with all these advantages, Clara is still denied the one thing she truly craves, freedom. The early 1800s are not a forgiving time for women and the naturally intelligent and commanding Clara has been forced into a silent pretty doll box that is slowly strangling her. When Oliver "Raven" Radford makes another appearance into her life, it is once again infuriatingly amazing. Raven's intelligence works wonders in the courtroom but makes him less than desired company as social interaction is not his strong suit. His immediate reaction is to dismiss Clara when she comes to him for help but as they get to know one another, he begins to see that her beauty masks something even more radiant and irresistible, her mind. Through obstacles of stubbornness, societal demands, and criminal elements, Clara and Raven battle it all so they can spar alone, in the bedroom.

"Her beauty surrounded her like a great stone wall. Men couldn't see above, beyond, or through it."

Living such a charmed life, Clara might at first seem like an unlikeable or hard to relate to character but the author does a brilliant job of showcasing how isolated, misunderstood, and confined she feels. The frustration and hurt Clara feels and displays when people refuse or are unable to see her for who she truly is, humanizes her in a way that the reader can't help feeling empathy and cheering her on. Her witty thoughts and biting statements ("Even if she got murdered, she ought to do it discreetly") are really clever commentary on sexism and classism; the author was smartly on point with these and one of my favorite aspects of the story.

"Her trouble was, she wanted to be somebody she wasn't."

Separate, Clara and Raven had their strengths; Clara with her inner strength and Raven with his iron resolve. However, it is when they are together that they really shine and keep the reader wanting more. Their chemistry can't be denied, instead of numerous heavy bedroom scenes (there are a couple of these too, just not the center piece) aggressively trying to show us how in love our couple is, we get amusing and quick-witted conversations that stimulates Clara and Raven's minds and bodies. Through this verbal fencing they learn one another as they reveal their true selves. The first half of the story is Clara showing Raven she deserves his respect through her efforts to rescue a boy from a gang and Raven giving it to her, something others have blindly denied her. Neither crosses the anachronistic line with their views on women's rights but rather we see the beginning of understanding what societal restrictions honestly do to women.

As I mentioned, the first half was all about Clara and Raven circling each other and coming together. The very beginning with its quick different pov changes created a bit of a schizophrenic beat that took some getting used to but the story's energy couldn't be denied. Around the halfway point our couple come together (Raven's speech at his "trial" to win the right to marry Clara, will win him the hearts of many readers) and the second half becomes about Clara and Raven's little blips to adjusting to married life, the sudden change in Raven's life trajectory, and the criminal element with its "I've been wronged, revenge!" comes to the forefront. The transition wasn't completely smooth with the inheriting the title of duke into the family feeling tagged on and the criminals looking for revenge feeling not quite coherent and dragged on. I felt the story lost some of its drive as it seemed lost as to where to go after Clara and Raven were married.

With Raven's "I don't suffer fools" attitude and Clara's blinding beauty, they weren't set-up to be the most sympathetic couple but through the author's writing, we get a look into their heartfelt souls. Past characters make very brief appearances but I didn't read the previous books in the series and had no problem following along and the author's writing has me wanting to go back and read the series from the beginning. If nimble back and forth between your leads is your aphrodisiac, this book has it in spades.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Clara and Raven’s story clearly shows how well written Loretta Chase’s work are. I truly loved this book and it was worth waiting for.

I think my Clara and Raven are my favorite characters. I like that Clara is independent in her own way, wants someone to want to marry her for her, holds herself together very well and is witty without being whinny. I love how she can handle herself in a situation and how to get what she wants. Raven is a character and I think it’s great that he’s not the usual tortured hero—he understands himself and knows who he is. I like how the way Chase wrote his “other self” (his emotional self) and how he can distance himself from the “other self.” The humor between these two was clever and beautifully written. Their love also feels real and truly genuine—it was quite beautiful to see these to fall in love.

Overall, the storyline is well thought out and true to the times. The overall humor is great and the story just continuously draws in the reader.

Disclosure: I received this ARC copy via Edelweiss. Thank you to Avon Books and Loretta Chase for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.

* * *

Lady Clara Fairfax has been part of the Dressmakers series since the first book, where she is jilted by the Duke in favor of Marcelline Noirot, even then, she made an unforgettable first impression, and I wondered when she would get her own happy ending.

I appreciate the length of time that Loretta Chase has given Clara to grow and mature -- our heroine is now a lady who has a keen (almost too keen) understanding of society and of the way the world works. She is devoted to her causes, and dearly loves the few friends she has kept through her "mis"adventures in the Dressmakers series. Clara is wary of the shallowness of society, but realizes that she must be part of it. But a greater part of herself is devoted to the Milliners' Society for the Education of Indigent Females, which the Noirot sisters run. When one of the children falls into a bad crowd, Clara is determined to save him -- and she enlists the help of an old acquaintance: Oliver Radford, a barrister.

Loretta Chase continues the theme of matching really incredible, intelligent, and strong heroines with irascible, yet charismatic heroes. Oliver is a difficult person to get close to -- he's all prickles and biting words, but Clara isn't intimidated by him. I love how she's able to stand up to Oliver, and even respond so cleverly to him. This is the novel's greatest strength: Loretta Chase is very, very good at flirtation through witty banter, and Oliver and Clara dance around their mutual attraction with each encounter. There were, admittedly, times when it got a bit much, and I found myself wishing that Oliver would change his tone (a little bit) when he talked to Clara, but he maintained that same exasperated, challenging, teasing tone with her.

Clara is, I think, the more complex and layered character of the two. She's a lady who has played Society's marriage game several times, and lost. She knows she is valued for her looks and title, and she longs to be more, to do more. She isn't naive, but she displays an innocent optimism and faith in the people around her, perhaps this is why she sees more to Oliver than I do.

Clara did not run screaming from the room. A lady didn't run screaming from anywhere unless her life was in immediate danger.

This was simply another marriage proposal.

...

Today was Lord Herringstone's turn. He said he loved her. They all said so with varying degrees of fervor. But being an intelligent girl who read more than she ought to, Clara was sure that he, like the others, merely wanted to claim the most fashionable girl in London for his own.
- loc 197 to 201

The author challenges our hero and heroine with a very gritty (and dangerous) obstacle: one of the children in the school that the Noirot sisters founded has been recruited by a known criminal -- not just any petty criminals, but one of the more deadly ones -- and he doesn't take too kindly on Oliver and Clara interfering with his operations. Because of his work, Oliver has had previous dealings with Jacob Freame. He knows the dangers and hazards of the area, which is why he is very reluctant to expose Clara to it.

Clara's exposure to the underworld does a good job of highlighting the social differences between her and Oliver, but what is amazing about Clara is that she isn't afraid to get her feet dirty. Clara is determined to save the child, and she doesn't really consider how the situation might affect her. It is partly reckless, but mostly brave -- other ladies would have heeded Oliver's warning and allowed him to handle everything, but Clara is tired of sitting and waiting. For her, now is the time for action.

Clara held up her hand, silencing him. If she didn't immediately seize control, they would. They'd treat her like a child, the way men usually treated women, especially young women. They'd murmur soothing things and send her on her way. They might even tattle to Papa's solicitor. She doubted any lawyerly rules of confidentiality applied to women.

Do not show uncertainty or anxiety, she commanded herself. For once in your life you can do something more productive than decline marriage offers.
- loc 442

The other obstacle is something more personal: while Oliver is related to a duke, he isn't in line to inherit the title, and Clara's family wants her to marry into the peerage. Oliver has lived with this sort of discrimination his entire life -- his cousin, Bernard, the current duke, made his life in school difficult. Oliver lives in a strange state of limbo: he's had to prove himself to his titled relatives, and, at the same time, to his fellow barristers. At this moment in his life, he is nicely settled and well-respected, and recognized for his own achievements, but, with Clara's entry into his life, it makes him realize that there might be something more for him to pursue. (In that, the title of the novel spoils this particular part of the plot. Because of the title, we know that Oliver will inherit the title -- all the struggle that he goes through to prove that he, by himself, is enough, is negated. Perhaps it was the author's idea of creating an ironic situation -- that Clara's parents objected because they did not know, and we did, but there's a part of me that wished he remained a barrister.)

There were moments when I felt Oliver was in danger of becoming a flat character -- he was consistently cantankerous, and I kept waiting to see a different side of him. It comes out, but not as often as I had thought was needed to prove that there was more to him than his gruffness. It is his default, yes, but I wanted to be surprised by him. I have to admit that, when the softer side of Oliver comes out, it's hard not to love him. There is a reluctant tenderness and openness to him that makes him quite adorable. (Though he would probably sue me for saying that.)

I guess the author also realized that she needed to soften Oliver's edges a bit, and so, gifted him with an incredibly interesting set of parents. His father married his stepmother when he was 50 years, and his stepmother was a divorcee, who was decades younger than George Radford. In the chapters where Oliver visits his father and stepmother, you could see warmth and tenderness in their dynamic. It's heartbreaking for Oliver to see his father, a barrister like himself, slowly decline. It's the elephant in the room in the Radford family -- and, is perhaps, one of the reasons why Oliver tries so valiantly to keep himself so together, because the alternative would be to completely fall apart.

While not my favorite in the series, Dukes Prefer Blondes is a great story and a wonderful addition to Chase's Dressmakers series.

Firstly, I adored this book; the characters are interesting, the story is page turning and it is an altogether fun book. The hero and heroine’s witty banter from day one is extremely entertaining as they match each other in intellect and spirit, and Oliver’s countdown to each point he makes is hilarious (firstly, secondly…)

Oliver Raven Radford, Esquire was an obnoxious boy and an even worst man. He is extremely intelligent and rarely speaks with a filter; it makes him a very successful lawyer but not a great catch in the eyes of the ladies of London. Years ago he met a very precocious young girl when he was school mates with her brothers and is stunned to find her just as interesting and intelligent as ever when he meets her again on the streets of London. She needs the help of a lawyer for a young woman, and seeks out his practice because of its anonymity, since a woman of class is never supposed to worry about things like this and seek out lawyers.

Lady Clara Fairfax has been fending off marriage proposals all Season. At last count, they were coming in twice a week. She is a beauty but also wants much more from a marriage than to be looked at and never spoken to. She also gives her services to the Milliners Society for the Education of Indigent Females, which is what has brought her back to Oliver. In a roundabout way, she gets him to help her find a missing boy who is in the hands of a horrible gang, and the more time they spend together, the more they enjoy each other, when they are not arguing that is.

I truly enjoyed this story and if I had not already sent in my list of top books for the year, this would have been on it. The author brings us two unforgettable characters that have incredible chemistry. The attraction is apparent but they spar and jab at each other before they give in and realize how they feel.

Clara is a wonderful heroine; she is wicked smart and can go word for word with a man who recognizes a woman that can hold her own. She wants to find a man who will treat her like an equal and is very intrigued when she meets Oliver again after so many years, he does not think she remembers him until she calls him the Professor, a nickname given to him in school. She enjoys spending time with him because of how he treats her which eventually leads to deeper feelings.

Oliver is so likeable, even when he is obnoxious, I love that he speaks without thinking because he is true and pure. When he meets Clara again he is fascinated with her and her personality. He knows she is pretty, but it is her intellect that has him transfixed. He helps her with her causes in the beginning because they overlap with a problem of his own, but when danger is getting closer he realizes what she means to him.

Secondary characters play important roles; I enjoyed the scenes with her maid Davis, a steadfast woman who keeps her eye on Clara and I also like Oliver’s partner Thomas Wescott, a loyal friend who knows what makes Oliver tick. There is also a sinister person who wants Oliver dead. Even though Oliver has made many enemies around London because of his profession, most leave him alone, but not Jacob Freame, and the danger Freame brings spreads to Clara and those she tries to help.

The plot progression was done well, I found myself wanting to read without stopping as I enjoyed the witty dialog between not only Clara and Oliver but also Wescott, Davis and many others that surrounded them and I could not stop from snickering when her parents put Oliver on trial when he dares to propose to her, it is a very funny scene with Oliver coming back with answers for every argument they have. This is the fourth book in the Dressmaker’s series and although we see many familiar faces, the author keeps the reader informed so it can easily be read as a standalone. The author also gives us many interesting facts at the end of the book, and it reminds me of the blog she writes with another, fascinating things about history. All in all a delightful historical romance with intriguing characters, a bit of danger and of course a wonderful love story.

Review also at Ramblings from a Chaotic Mind

Copy from the publisher for an honest review

Lady Clara comes from a loving, titled, and rich family, she also happens to be stunningly beautiful. Even with all these advantages, Clara is still denied the one thing she truly craves, freedom. The early 1800s are not a forgiving time for women and the naturally intelligent and commanding Clara has been forced into a silent pretty doll box that is slowly strangling her. When Oliver "Raven" Radford makes another appearance into her life, it is once again infuriatingly amazing. Raven's intelligence works wonders in the courtroom but makes him less than desired company as social interaction is not his strong suit. His immediate reaction is to dismiss Clara when she comes to him for help but as they get to know one another, he begins to see that her beauty masks something even more radiant and irresistible, her mind. Through obstacles of stubbornness, societal demands, and criminal elements, Clara and Raven battle it all so they can spar alone, in the bedroom.

"Her beauty surrounded her like a great stone wall. Men couldn't see above, beyond, or through it."

Living such a charmed life, Clara might at first seem like an unlikeable or hard to relate to character but the author does a brilliant job of showcasing how isolated, misunderstood, and confined she feels. The frustration and hurt Clara feels and displays when people refuse or are unable to see her for who she truly is, humanizes her in a way that the reader can't help feeling empathy and cheering her on. Her witty thoughts and biting statements ("Even if she got murdered, she ought to do it discreetly") are really clever commentary on sexism and classism; the author was smartly on point with these and one of my favorite aspects of the story.

"Her trouble was, she wanted to be somebody she wasn't."

Separate, Clara and Raven had their strengths; Clara with her inner strength and Raven with his iron resolve. However, it is when they are together that they really shine and keep the reader wanting more. Their chemistry can't be denied, instead of numerous heavy bedroom scenes (there are a couple of these too, just not the center piece) aggressively trying to show us how in love our couple is, we get amusing and quick-witted conversations that stimulates Clara and Raven's minds and bodies. Through this verbal fencing they learn one another as they reveal their true selves. The first half of the story is Clara showing Raven she deserves his respect through her efforts to rescue a boy from a gang and Raven giving it to her, something others have blindly denied her. Neither crosses the anachronistic line with their views on women's rights but rather we see the beginning of understanding what societal restrictions honestly do to women.

As I mentioned, the first half was all about Clara and Raven circling each other and coming together. The very beginning with its quick different pov changes created a bit of a schizophrenic beat that took some getting used to but the story's energy couldn't be denied. Around the halfway point our couple come together (Raven's speech at his "trial" to win the right to marry Clara, will win him the hearts of many readers) and the second half becomes about Clara and Raven's little blips to adjusting to married life, the sudden change in Raven's life trajectory, and the criminal element with its "I've been wronged, revenge!" comes to the forefront. The transition wasn't completely smooth with the inheriting the title of duke into the family feeling tagged on and the criminals looking for revenge feeling not quite coherent and dragged on. I felt the story lost some of its drive as it seemed lost as to where to go after Clara and Raven were married.

With Raven's "I don't suffer fools" attitude and Clara's blinding beauty, they weren't set-up to be the most sympathetic couple but through the author's writing, we get a look into their heartfelt souls. Past characters make very brief appearances but I didn't read the previous books in the series and had no problem following along and the author's writing has me wanting to go back and read the series from the beginning. If nimble back and forth between your leads is your aphrodisiac, this book has it in spades.

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Clara and Raven’s story clearly shows how well written Loretta Chase’s work are. I truly loved this book and it was worth waiting for.

I think my Clara and Raven are my favorite characters. I like that Clara is independent in her own way, wants someone to want to marry her for her, holds herself together very well and is witty without being whinny. I love how she can handle herself in a situation and how to get what she wants. Raven is a character and I think it’s great that he’s not the usual tortured hero—he understands himself and knows who he is. I like how the way Chase wrote his “other self” (his emotional self) and how he can distance himself from the “other self.” The humor between these two was clever and beautifully written. Their love also feels real and truly genuine—it was quite beautiful to see these to fall in love.

Overall, the storyline is well thought out and true to the times. The overall humor is great and the story just continuously draws in the reader.

I love this author, she's brilliant. Appreciated the fast talking and witty dialogue! The hero was like a kinder, warmer version of Sherlock, especially when he was imperiously ranting. Clara turned out to be quick and smart, and easily kept up with him. Despite being very beautiful, he admired her bravery and intelligence too. He wanted to give her the freedom to be herself, which was touching and romantic. I loved the beginning when they met as children. What a great set up to a funny, heart warming story.

Another amazing book by Loretta Chase!!!

She makes me laugh out loud when I am reading. Her wirting is so creative, intelligent and witty. I loved the characters in this book.
Raven Radford is a barrister who serious, logical and just plain annoying most of the time. He has no time for society ladies in his world, he has enough to do without having to babysit a young lady. Clara is young lady who has decided that she is not going to live in the restiriced environment that she has been stuck in her whole life. She is independent, stubborn and going into places where she shouldn't be, and if her family finds out they would probably lock her away forever in the country.

When Clara goes to Raven for help, he knows if he doesn't help her someone else will. He can protect her and hopefully keep her out of trouble and danger. Raven doesn't want to want her but he does and tries to fight it. Clara is fascinated by him.

This is a wonderful story with humor, sexual tension, a couple who are made for each other. It also includes a couple of really nasty villians and a plot that will keep you riveted to the end. If you have never read one of Loretta's books you are missing out on the best of Historical Romance today.

Lady Clara Fairfax was raised to marry a duke. She knew all the rules of ladylike behavior – and chaffed at each and every one. Why was it necessary to hide her intellect and use a disguise to call on a lawyer?
Raven (Oliver) Radford followed his father, the son of a duke’s second son, into the practice of law. At times the criminals were easier to contend with than his cousins. If only they would stop dying off, he could continue a profession he enjoyed.
Lady Clara persuades Raven to take her case. It’s not his first choice, but when the clues direct him to the possibility of arresting a criminal intent on killing him as well as rescuing a boy from a life of crime, his interest is captured.
The verbal sparring between Lady Clara and Raven makes this story exceptional. Add the elements of suspense and it’s the sort of story that will keep you turning pages all night.

ARC provided by publishers in exchange for an honest review.

For the past year, I've been going through an intense YA reading phase. I'm now currently going through a really, really intense historical romance phase. :) It's been some time since I've read a historical romance and Eva Leigh's Wicked Quills of London series got me back on the historical romance train. This is the fourth book in the Dressmaker quartet by Loretta Chase. The first three books features three sisters who run a dressmaking shop and their adventures of finding true love. I highly recommend reading the books in order, otherwise, you'll get a little lost with character histories. The main plot of this story is how Oliver and Clara reunite and fall in love. Oliver was friends with Clara's brothers and she would often chase after them. After an incident with his cousin, Oliver would remember Clara as the girl who stood up for him and got a chipped tooth for her troubles. Years later, he saves her from a fast-moving carriage. Oliver is no longer the puny weakling, but a strong and wickedly smart barrister (lawyer). Clara requests his services to locate a missing child and Oliver, intrigued by her intelligence and refreshing personality, agrees. Oliver's family is going through its heirs like water. The heirs are dying left and right, mostly due to idiocy than disease. This puts Oliver next in live to inherit a dukedom. Something he absolutely doesn't want to deal with. Oliver figures that Lady Clara, being experienced in navigating the ton, would be the perfect bride for him. Romantic mayhem ensues. I thought this was a strong ending to the quartet and will definitely check out Loretta's other novels.

Fans of Loretta Chase know that she loves to write romantic tales concerning highly intelligent couples that are attracted to one another, first and foremost, by their complementary intellect. Dukes Prefer Blondes definitely delivers on this front. You will not be at a loss for witty repartees, even if at times you may want to throttle the hero for some of his seemingly less than complimentary views of women. Fortunately, the heroine in Dukes Prefer Blondes knows just to how to put him in his place with her quick verbal sparring which always seems to position her with the upper hand and ultimately works to benefit them both with a match made in academic heaven!

Lady Clara Fairfax has been raised to marry a man of the upper echelons of society, preferably a duke. Unfortunately for her, while many others would greatly envy her position of fending off marriage proposals left and right, Clara can’t help but feel stifled and as if she is drowning in all the luxurious coddling that women of her rank are inevitably constantly treated to. Even more detrimental to her state of mind is the constant disregard for her mental acuity. Ladies of her station are just not supposed to be rational and logical or really of much use at all except in certain domestic and fashionable regards.

Imagine her surprise then when the first man to actually pay her any heed also happens to be one of the most satisfyingly complex and yet equally frustrating men she has ever met. Oliver “Raven” Radford, a barrister who although he comes from a good family (he is the cousin of a duke), has always been a member of the family’s working class arm. The more he gets entangled in her plan to save a brother and sister that Clara met at her favorite charity and whom Clara has taken it upon herself to save from a dangerous street gang, the more she begins to appreciate Raven’s willingness–even if begrudgingly given–to see her for more than a damsel in distress with no ability to fend for herself.

Amidst this danger, and in between constant parleys that are as sharp as any sword, Clara and Raven begin to ignite under the intense passion they share. However, this inevitable attraction to one another only highlights society’s harsh rules which no doubt will never allow room for a union of such disparate ranks.

Will Raven be able to keep Clara safe from the imminent danger that she courts in her quest to save the brother and sister that she has taken under wing? Moreover, even if he can, is he not just setting them both up for the inevitable heartbreak that is sure to follow their attempt to break with society’s conventions?

If you are looking for a romance to challenge your mind and your heart, then look no further, Dukes Prefer Blondes is sure to fit your need.

Source: Review copy provided in exchange for an honest review.

A most satisfying read, and no wonder given its author. Give me a HR with some 'meat' to it; i.e., and most importantly, a 'story', characterization that leaps off the pages, a healthy dose of humor, an author with a vocabulary (thank you!), and one who can serve up some romance, but doesn't need to fill pages endlessly with blow by blow descriptions (because she hasn't much else to deliver), and I'm happy. Did I love it as much as Lord of Scoundrels? No, sorry...a book very hard to top IMO. That said, this was still quite enjoyable.

I had only read one other Loretta Chase novel before and was delighted to rediscover her. I found this historical romance refreshing, intelligent, witty and original. I really loved the unlikely hero that is Mr. Radford, especially his inner monologue when it came to Clara. You could feel his joy and unwanted emotions in those thoughts. I loved how he tried to fight it, but couldn't help falling in love with her. So sweet. I especially melted when he said, stop "you're murdering my brain," since he prides himself in his intellect and being logical. I think this is what Loretta Chase did to my brain while I read her words and turned into a pile of romantic mush.

Loretta Chase creates wonderfully entertaining books that keep the reader enthralled to the very end. This is the story of Lady Clara Fairfax, who was raised to be a duchess but has set her sights on a barrister. Raven Radford is distantly related to the Duke of Malvern and is currently a barrister. He is extremely intelligent which annoys most people but Lady Clara finds him exciting. Together they work to find a missing boy. Along the way, the differences in their stations become less significant as their feelings grow stronger. They must overcome the prejudices of others in order to stay together.

When I started reading romance again, I found Loretta Chase's Silk Is For Seduction. I was amazed by the story that I couldn't wait for then next book. However, I had to wait. UGH!!!! This is where we first meet Lady Clara Fairfax. At the time she wasn't dressing the part of a future duchess, so the sister's worked their magic. Eventually, she realized that Clevedon wasn't the right man for her, so begins the quest to find the right man. Not an easy feat after all she's a bit too intelligent for the average lord. Plus, they would just look at her as arm candy. She didn't know it, but she need some to challenge her and make her think. She has met her match in Oliver Radford also know as the Raven.

Now Radford is highly intelligent guy, so much so that he's a bit condescending. Imagine that. It's not his fault that he needs challenges that make him think, he did grow up in his father's house who happen to be another intelligent barrister. Anyway, Radford finds the law stimulating. When Clara pops back into his life, well his world gets shaken up.

I adore these two, because they have this verbal foreplay going on. Nothing dirty, no it's more like stimulating one another to verbally battle one another. Radford isn't use to someone challenging him and Clara has never found anyone like Radford. I mean he challenges her and she actually has to think about to meet his challenge. Radford isn't like any of her suitors where she can bat an eye and they fall to their needs, she has to be cunning to get what she wants. So, when she goes to Radford help it's not the easiest task, especially when he's not the easiest person to deal. He can also be a bit obnoxious. Besides that Radford does truly care for Clara, and he tries everything to keep her safe. Granted she's intelligent, but she lacks some commonsense on somethings. Some of the things she encounters in this story, she could have avoided had she listen to Radford. However, these two were made for one another. Radford had one of the sweetest proposal that he could have given, even though it wasn't sweet per se, but emotional. Totally melted for him after that.

Overall, Duke's Prefer Blondes was a pretty good read. I found myself enjoying barbs between Radford and Clara. They challenged one another and at the same time they complete each other. Plus, you had someone trying to take out Radford in the background, which is no surprise. It's just his personality. Enjoyable to the end. Plus, I'm happy Clara was able to find her man. If you haven't read the previous books, don't worry. This story can be read as a standalone, because the other stories focuses more on the sisters. They only pop in here and there in the story. Duke's Prefer Blondes focuses on Clara and Radford.

Copy provided by Avon.

An unshakeable case of bronchitis is making me quite cranky so I am going to settle in at three stars.

I read the first two books in the "Dressmaker" series plus Loretta Chase wrote Lord of Scoundrels, yum, so this deserves a read on those merits alone. I didn't love it; don't know why, and don't have the cough, cough, cough energy to figure out why.

I will say, I was more than a little disappointed not to see more of the characters in the first two books. I really enjoyed the sassiness and conniving-ness, if that's a word, of the two designing sisters and their ability to make the most of their opportunities. (Haven't read the third one.) So having this be a part of the series with minimal contact with the designing duo was disappointing. Turns out Clara, this h, is the rejected bride in the first. Ho hum, and the wedding gown sounded tacky as well.

Clara and Raven are two solid characters though with plenty of witty banter. Major sexiness ensues even though he is a boring solicitor soon to be Duke heir-to-be. There is a subplot dealing with London underground that interfered with blowing my nose and popping generic Sucrets, but that's what skimming is for.

Pretty good, the lawyerly aspect of the hero's personality is way overdone. Conversations between the hero & heroine are fun, could have used some editing. Way, way too much of the secondary plot revolving around a bad guys attempt to have revenge in the hero, endless yattering about the heroine's outfits (do.NOT ever need to read the word 'lappets" ever again, slow pace to the overall story. Not terrible, not great.

Loretta Chase has always been a favorite of mine and her new series The Dressmakers has totally intrigued me that I will definitely want to follow through with the rest of the series.

The beautiful Lady Clara Fairfax is an heiress that has numerous marriage proposals coming through lost on a bi-weekly basis and are annoyingly tiresome. Wanting more than to become some kind of trophy wife, wanted only for her beauty and wealth, she escapes to her favorite charity of taking in youngsters and training them for dressmaker positions. But when a child goes missing she needs more help and she must turn to an old acquaintance – tall, dark and annoyingly handsome barrister Oliver Radford, who has never been a part of fashionable society, nor wants any part of it.

What captured me from the very beginning were the dialogs. Starting as children one could see where both were intelligent and how the attraction would lead even as their lives went in different directions. When the time came to re-introduce one another their repartee was as enlightening as ever with witticisms and disagreements of one nature or another. Yet one could see the sparks flying.

Now the fact that Oliver’s profession of being a Barrister and sending felons to jail didn’t endure him to the baser side of the underworld - in fact, many were trying to rid him of his existence. Nor, did Oliver realize that he was immeasurably close to becoming a duke, should his cousin (nice love/hate relationship there) kick the bucket. Which should that occur, make him a much more suitable match for the very lovely Lady Clara.

In DUKES PREFER BLONDES, the author provides a wonderful plot, superb dialogs (always my favorite part of a story) along with sensuality, adventure, and humor. Actually what, more could one want?

Marilyn Rondeau

The wonderful repartee between Lady Clara and Radford reminded me of the great Hepburn and Tracy combination. The dialogue is witty ,fast paced and sophisticated.
Loretta Chase delivers joy and fun in this book and in this series. My only complaint is the ending, I never wanted it to stop.

Eh. Enjoyed the beginning but it quickly fizzled and left me bored. Got sick of the constant, "women aren't as intelligent as men" shtick through the entire book. And what was with telling us the date every other page? Or the "later that day"? I feel like the Freame storyline was more interesting but got shoved to the side for...something. I guess the romance? Basically, not much happens for about 100 pages of the book. I certainly don't feel inspired to read another Loretta Chase anytime soon.

I was kind of disappointed with this book. I had hoped for better. The main characters WERE different which was a plus. But the book was so slow in the beginning and so wordy that it was hard to stay with it. Some of the verbal sparring was smile worthy but after a while, not so much. At times I despaired of finishing it. So while there were some good parts, over all it really wasn't my cup of tea.

Loretta Chase books are very hit and miss for me. Silk is For Seduction was one of my favorite books of 2011. But while that book touched me emotionally –this book had the opposite effect. I felt very little while I was reading and walked away feeling lukewarm. I think it has a lot to with the hero.

This is book 4 in the Dressmakers series and you’ll remember Clara as the woman who was supposed to marry the hero in Silk is For Seduction. She is a sweet girl who the Noirot sisters took under their wing –and has blossomed with more flattering clothes and a mission to help less fortunate children. Though she has been bred to become a duchess, Clara has grown weary of the countless suitors who seem interested in nothing but her beauty.

Oliver Radford is a barrister who is known for his brilliance and his less than spectacular social skills. When a pauper child goes missing, Clara turns to him for help, and the two quickly remember a childhood memory where he once defended her honor. Despite his better judgement, Radford takes Clara’s case, and the two end up working together to find the little boy who has been absorbed into a criminal gang.

So here’s the interpersonal dynamic in a nutshell: Clara wants someone to recognize her intellect and let her step out of the stifling expectations placed on a lady. Radford does that… a little… between “joking” insults. He lets her help him hunt down the child in a bad part of town. He lets her get her hands dirty. And love was born.

This just didn’t do it for me. I know Radford is not supposed to be a likeable guy. But perhaps Chase did too good of a job here. He’s not awful. I didn’t hate him. I just found nothing attractive about him. I didn’t feel anything towards him at all. And that’s bad news for a romance hero. Radford and Clara banter throughout the book, but it’s not funny or endearing. At least not to me.

Maybe there is some hidden charm to his little digs. There must be, because Clara falls for him and it, indeed, comes to pass that he considers her smart. But I don’t find little barbs to be romantic or attractive.

On top of that, once these two really get together, the second half of the book was meh and predictable. I mean –spoiler alert– the title of the book is DUKES Prefer Blondes. What do YOU think is going to happen to Radford? Plus the plot with the bad guy coming after them… very anticlimactic.

I wish this were a better fit for me. It’s got some great reviews on Goodreads, so maybe the issue is mine. But I struggled to make it to the end of this one and it’s definitely not a favorite from this author.

Rating: C

I was so disappointed with this story, beginning with the title of the book, not relevant to the story. It made me feel the book was hastily written so the series had an ending. I have always been delighted with LC work, but this story was disappointing.

Loretta Chase, you grabbed my interest with both hands and wouldn't let go. Delicious repartee, intelligent protagonists, vile villains, an interesting supporting cast...in other words, this is a tale well told.