The Duke I Despise

by Angela E. Johnson

She’s out to ruin him. He’s determined to charm her. Only one can win.

Miss Juliana Astley is far too clever to fall for a silver-tongued duke—particularly one foolish enough to wager on stealing a kiss from her. So when she overhears the Duke of Windsor boasting to his friends and discovers he has written her name in White’s infamous betting book, she does not swoon.

She plots her revenge.

Lucian Montrose, the Duke of Windsor, is thoroughly baffled by one woman—Miss Juliana Astley. His effortless charm is met with suspicion, sharp wit, and responses that would send most men retreating. Lucian, however, finds it entirely encouraging. Every attempt to win her favor backfires spectacularly, only strengthening his resolve. But just when he begins to suspect victory may be near, a scandalous calling card bearing his name begins circulating through the ton…though even he cannot explain its origin.

Witty, romantic, and delightfully scandalous, The Duke I Despise is an irresistible enemies-to-lovers closed-door Regency romp and is the second book in the Madcaps of Mayfair series by Angela E. Johnson.

Genres: Historical Romance, Regency, Romance, Historical Fiction, Clean Romance

252 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 1, 2026

About the author

Angela Johnson has a love of literature and all things Regency. Traveling and reading are favorite past times and help her form ideas for writing. Angela despises the snow when it is on the road, but loves snow when it falls romantically in the perfect scene for characters to fall in love. Be sure to follow Angela on BookBub for the latest releases and sales. https://tinyurl.com/5n6rkytm

Reviews

[Melissa (christianbooksandcoffee) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very entertaining story! I loved it so much! Juliana and Lucien are great characters! I loved their meeting, so cute. Later, Juliana overhears Lucien talking with his friends about the bet he made with him that he will kiss Juliana. This of course infuriates Juliana and she makes plans to make sure that doesn’t happen and worse for him. Lucien really likes her and he was just going along with the betting to save face but he doesn’t plan to collect money. He is genuinely trying to pursue her. I loved the scene with the chickens. There are so many great moments between Juliana and Lucien. The chemistry is great. I also liked seeing Lucien reconnect with his mother. Overall a great book and I recommend.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Emma | meadowroselibrary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"𝘚𝘩𝘦 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘥𝘦𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘮𝘪𝘯𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘺𝘦𝘵, 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘮𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯𝘵, 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥𝘯'𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘮𝘣𝘦𝘳 𝘢𝘯𝘺𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘩𝘪𝘮."

I absolutely loved this one!! It took me a little bit to get into it, I just didn't care for Juliana at first. But I ended up loving it so much!

The Duke of Windsor (Lucian) is considered a rake, but I loved him. 😅 You can tell from the beginning that he just cares so much, and it was a true love at first sight for him. He would rather lose everything he knows than lose Juliana. He cared more about love than connections. 🩷

Juliana is very cautious, and definitely doesn't care for Lucian. She starts some scandal against him that really makes you laugh, and adds to the story! It gets very hard to put down. 😅

This is a wonderful enemies to lovers story, and I highly recommend it!!

*I received an e-ARC copy, all opinions are my own

[Tanvi · Rating 3 out of 5]

While the book had its moments- both funny and emotional, I could not love the characters. Once the bet was placed in the betting book, I had no trust in Lucian and I wholeheartedly support Juliana's endeavour.

However I would have wished that there was more communication after they finally shared a kiss and Lucian should have been more repentant.

[Shayla Riley · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke I Despise
(Madcaps of Mayfair Book 2)
by: Angela E. Johnson
@angela_e_johnson.author

••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

~She’s out to ruin him. He’s determined to charm her.
Only one can win…

-My friends, I found The Duke I Despise, to be such a witty, romantic, and delightfully scandalous, captivating (one sided) enemies-to-lovers closed-door Regency story! I absolutely adored the weaved in goodness of marriage of convenience, a second chance romance, the forced proximity, grumpy-sunshine characters, where both he and she fall first. I loved watching both endearing characters come to realize in their own way of sorts, that there might be something more to what’s been in front of them, and that even if it takes second chances, the possibilities of something more when it comes to love, blooms in the unexpected small yet, significant moments of the ordinary. This delightful story was just what I needed, on a day that felt more heavy. It brought laughter and smiles, with a lovely HEA! The goodness within shines dearly making this story worth the charming read, absolutely!🙌🏻📚💙✨

•Content: eavesdropping, making a friendly wager, mischief, no language, no violence, kisses only. Clean, Closed-door regency read!

-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

#thedukeidespise
#madcapsofmayfair
#angelaejohnson

[Beverly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oil and water, and opposites attract??? Lucian and Juliana were bound to strike flames , and over time those flames turned into a raging Inferno.

But, Juliana refuses to believe the Duke loves her for herself and not a foolish bet that Lucian and his friends made together. What he did about that bet later made my heart melt. So chivalrous!! Swooning!

The push and pull between these two characters was electric, and kept things interesting. Uncle Henry was a biased, entitled, vile, intrusion in Lucian and his mother's lives. I was happy he finally reunited with his mother after all the secrets and lies told.

I love that Juliana gives Lucian a run for his money, and she makes him prove his love over and over again!! Captivating, cheeky, riveting, fun, and an entertaining joy to read. I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Author.

This is the second book in the Madcaps of Mayfair series. It can be read as a standalone, but is part of a series about the Astley sisters. In this book we get Juliana's story.

Juliana is too clever to fall for a duke that wagered on stealing a kiss from her. She plots her revenge. I loved the banter between Juliana and Lucian. I laughed and cheered at the many charming and chivalrous acts Lucian shows Juliana, as she continues to stubbornly dislike him. I absolutely loved the scandalous calling card! I really enjoyed the slow-burn relationship between the two main characters and found myself having to read more and more to find out how it ended.

I'm can't wait to read about what happens with Rose in the next book of the series. Angela E. Johnson is quickly becoming a favorite. I love the humor and sweet romance each of these books have held.

Quotes:
"My life has grown inconveniently pleasant since you entered it."

"You are sought after because you are worth seeking. Not for your dowry. Not for your lips. But because you are...you."

Thank you Angela E. Johnson for the ARC. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Koren | the_blue_eyed_bluestocking · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witty, funny and utterly charming!

I'm not sure that you can quite call this an enemies-to-lovers story since the sweet Duke is down bad from the start. Smitten and steady, Lucian, the Duke of Windsor, decides to follow his heart and claim Miss Juliana Astley for his own. Never you mind that it isn't his dukely duty. But a misplaced wager, some unfortunate eavesdropping and meddling members of the haute ton conspire to keep these two apart, and maybe Juliana too.

This story is a truly fun Regency romp, exploring the ideas of marrying outside station, following one's heart, and "forced" marriage. With vibes to rival Princess Mia Thermopolis Renauldi and Prince Nicolas, Lucian and Juliana find themselves in many hysterical situations that had me laughing out loud. The story felt fresh and fun; full of chemistry and banter. Angela is a gifted author and this might be my favorite yet!

I received a complimentary copy of the author's story to read and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.

[Fanosse23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke I Despise, Book 2 in Angela E. Johnson’s Madcaps of Mayfair series, is a charming and lively addition to this delightful Regency romance collection. Johnson’s talent for witty banter, clever plotting, and heartfelt characters truly shines in this installment, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next book.

This time, the spotlight falls on Juliana Astley, who overhears Lucien Montrose, the Duke of Windsor, making a wager that he can steal a kiss from her—a bet even noted in White’s infamous betting book. Outraged and determined to get even, Juliana sets out to make the Duke regret his reckless boast. Naturally, Lucien soon discovers he wants far more than a stolen kiss, but earning Juliana’s trust proves to be a hilariously uphill battle, especially with his scheming Uncle Henry pressuring him to marry someone else.

The dynamic between Juliana and Lucien is pure enemies-to-lovers magic. Their banter sparkles, their misunderstandings feel natural, and Juliana’s constant tests of his sincerity keep the tension sparkling. Lucien’s persistence—despite a series of spectacularly failed attempts to win her over—makes his ultimate redemption and heartfelt confession all the more swoon-worthy. One particularly moving moment, when he finally addresses the wager with honesty and vulnerability, had me sighing with admiration.

Family drama adds further depth to the romance. Uncle Henry is a pompous, conniving nuisance whose lies bring misery to Lucien and his mother’s lives, while Juliana’s sisterly bonds and Lucien’s friendships add warmth and charm to the couple’s journey. I especially loved Lucien’s decision to follow his heart, seek out his mother, and reconcile as the truth came to light.

Angela E. Johnson brings the Regency world vividly to life with humor, charm, and clever storytelling. Her characters are smart, spirited, and utterly engaging, making this series a delightful escape for historical romance fans.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I wholeheartedly recommend this witty, sparkling, and swoon-worthy enemies-to-lovers romance—an absolute joy to read.

[Sharon the Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

If want to read a regency story with enough humor and banter to last you for days- you have found the right book and author. Truly, I'm a sucker for a historical romance- but you add in sarcasm and a girl who refuses to fall for a titled gentleman just because everyone else is, I'm sold. 100% in.

Miss Juliana Astley was not an admirer of the Duke of Windsor. He did have beautiful eyes, beautiful curls, and a grin to melt over, but that was for other girls. He was insufferable! Even the scathing looks she sent his way were returned with a smirk. She is not a simpering female batting her eyelashes and digging for a title or wealth.

"You are mocking me. But allow me to let you in on a little secret. I care very little for your opinion."

Lucian, as a Duke, is known for his charm. Mothers love him, their daughters all but throw themselves at him, and all he wants it to be seen for more than just his title. All but Juliana, the one that has really caught his attention. She, however, avoids him and goes out of her way to make his life miserable. His uncle is set on him marrying advantageously- love should have nothing to do with it.

"He may have more wealth that he could ever imagine spending, but he was dreadfully poor in the things that mattered. When it came to love, he was sorely lacking."

There are chickens, (hilariously so) an unfortunate bet, efforts to ruin a reputation, estranged family members, sneaking into White's in disguise, and friends and sisters that are all in on the escapades- whether they should be or not.

Angela's books all have me laughing from the start. Yes, there is regency manners, etiquette, matchmaking, love and stiffness- but she makes it all so fun. There are also moments of tenderness between an estranged mother and her son, between former enemies, and even amongst friends.

Thanks to Book Sirens for the copy of the book for my review.

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Madcaps of Mayfair series. I really enjoyed the first book, so I was eager to read this one.

In this story, Julianna Astley, the second daughter of the Astley family, overhears Lucian Montrose, the Duke of Windsor, boasting to his friends and discovers he has written her name in White's famous betting book. Hurt and angry, she becomes determined to ensure he loses the wager—and even sets out to ruin him.

The novel had several elements I enjoyed. The chemistry between Lucian and Julianna created some engaging moments, and their banter added a lively dynamic to the story. Lucian, in particular, came across as a genuinely honorable man who tried to make things right with Julianna. I also enjoyed Julianna’s relationship with her sister, which brought warmth and humor to the story. Their visits to the poorhouse for children were another meaningful element that added depth.

However, I had difficulty connecting with Julianna’s character. At times, her reaction to Lucian felt overly harsh and out of proportion to the situation. Her determination to ruin him socially seemed extreme, and it made it difficult for me to fully sympathize with her motivations. I also found Lucian’s continued deference to her somewhat puzzling, as I didn’t feel the story fully showed why she inspired such admiration from him.

Despite this, I continue to enjoy Angela E. Johnson’s writing, and I’m very interested to see where the series goes next. I’m especially looking forward to Rose’s story—I already like both her and the hinted male lead, and I’m eager to see how their romance unfolds.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ashley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Juliana's character in this story! She's confident, brazen, and unapologetic for her antics. When she grabs the attention of a Duke, but overhears that she's too far below his station, she immediately steps into action. Rebuffing any of his advances and trying to politely keep him from showing interest in her. But that just spurs him on. Lucian doesn't agree with his uncle's assessment that he should marry the daughter of a duchess, and instead is intrigued deeply but Juliana.

Watching his continued advances get knocked by her was a hoot, especially because she is interested in him, but feels humiliated about what she overheard regarding her place in society.

Much of the story demonstrates both of their growing attachments to one another. Except that Juliana is very stubborn and has a lot of tricks up her sleeve. The pranks she pulls and the situations she finds herself in are hilarious. But done in such a way that she becomes endearing. Lucian certainly finds her antics wonderful and continues to be further pulled into his attraction for her

I love it when an author writes a male character that fights for the love he wants and won't let anything stand in his way!

Both characters are filled with so much emotion and drive, it was very exciting to watch this story play out. If you love humor, romance, and incredibly strong character arcs, then you're bound to love this one as much as I did.

[Rose Seals · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very well written, full of drama, society, intrigue, revenge, emotions, laughs, mystery, chemistry and love. Lucian Montrose, Duke of Windsor has meet a young woman who he feels something for but wants to exam his feelings. He has not talked to his mother in twenty five years as his father had passed and he was left in the care of his uncle Henry. Uncle Henry is a nasty man who thinks he can control Lucian's life and now wants him to marry a Lady Beatrice. Lucian has told him no and is not going to look at the list. He tells Henry that he is able to pick his own wife and it will be for love. He finally goes to see and talk to his mother after being told not too by Henry. Finding her money has been cut and the home not taken care of. He corrects that mistakes that Henry has done and then takes total control of his money letting Henry know that he is aware of the mistakes and fraud committed. Has some great scenes when Henry realizes he has lost, the chickens and Juliana scene with feathers flying everywhere. Juliana overhears a wager between Lucian and his friends and decides to teach him a good lesson. She has calling cards made up in his name and leaves them laying around at different functions. The readings on the cards are funny but some take them too seriously. But the best scene of all is the fountain and the bird. Just a fabulous read. Hope's there's another to come. Would recommend to everyone.

I received this story and leave this unbiased, honest review.

[Anonymous 5 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a charming and light Regency romance, the perfect read if you’re in the mood for something fun and a little dramatic without being too heavy.

Juliana is a great heroine—smart, sharp, and not easily impressed. I really enjoyed how she refused to fall for Lucian’s charm, especially after discovering his ridiculous wager. Instead of swooning, she goes straight into plotting mode, which made her feel refreshing and entertaining to follow.

Lucian, on the other hand, is the classic confident duke—but what makes him fun is how completely thrown off he is by Juliana. His attempts to win her over keep failing, and watching him get more determined (and a little confused) was honestly one of the best parts of the book.

Their dynamic is full of witty banter and playful tension. It definitely leans into the enemies-to-lovers trope, with lots of back-and-forth and slow-building feelings. Since it’s closed-door, the romance stays sweet rather than steamy, which worked well for the tone of the story.

The added mystery with the scandalous calling card gave the plot a little extra intrigue, though it didn’t completely steal the spotlight from the romance.

Overall, this is a delightful, easy read with humor, charm, and just enough drama to keep things interesting. If you enjoy clever heroines, persistent dukes, and Regency settings, this one is definitely worth picking up.

I received a complimentary copy from BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving my review. 

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Madcaps of Mayfair series. While it can be read as a standalone, this series does follow the Astley sisters. In the first book we got Myra's story and in this book we get Juliana's.

This is an enjoyable read. While Juliana is determined to not like Lucian, I feel that she had to keep talking herself into despising him. I chuckled at the banter between them and laughed at the many situations they found themselves in. And don't get me started on how funny the calling card is!!

I also enjoyed the slow burn of Lucian and Juliana's relationship. And that of course we get a Love Match HEA ending.

You'll want to make sure to download the extended epilogue as it features Berkeley. I'm excited for the next book in the series, not only to get Rose's story, but I'm hoping we get more of Berkeley. Or maybe Berkeley will have his own book.

I received an advanced copy and all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Quotes:
"Every advancement looks like catastrophe from a comfortable distance."

"Intentions matter little when the outcome is the same."

"You are sought after because you are worth seeking. Not for your dowry. Not for your lips. But because you are" - he exhaled, as though the word carried weight -"you."

[Hannah Wittwer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Juliana Astley doesn’t want anything to do with Lucian Montrose, The Duke of Windsor! He is insufferable and keeps trying to woo her!! But she’s having none of it!

Lucian is very intrigued by Juliana and her desire to avoid him! But as they grow closer together I loved seeing them get to know each other beyond first impressions!

Things I loved:
🩵Hyde Park horse racing
🩵Chicken Escapades
🩵Lucien’s friendship with Pembrooke and Berkeley
🩵Playing Whist
🩵Rose’s loyalty to Juliana
🩵The Betting book
🩵Lucien’s mom

This story was just delightful and it kept me on my toes with trying to see what mischief the characters would find themselves in next!! There were so many moments that had me laughing and rolling my eyes at their antics!

Lucien and Juliana were so perfect for each other and I love when you get to see that they aren’t quite as opposite as they originally appeared! Their chemistry was incredible and I loved how hard and fast Lucien fell for Juliana!! 🥹

Pembrooke and Berkeley were such amazing characters and such good friends to Lucien and I really enjoyed their friendship and escapades! 😅

I already can’t wait to read Rose’s story next because I absolutely adored her in this!!! I will definitely be going back and reading Myra’s too because this one was just delightful and I need more of the Astley sisters in my life!!

[Lou · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
“The Duke I Despise “ is really an enjoyable and entertaining story that had me captivated from the first page till the very end. This book will pull you right in and keep you engaged and smiling all the way through.
The author brings the story to life with great characters that are lovable and endearing. She has a smooth writing style and does a great job developing the characters. Lucien is a charming Duke. He falls first for Juliana, but he makes the mistake to accept a wager with his friends to kiss Juliana.
Juliana is such a spitfire. When she gets wind of the wager, she is out for revenge. Her antics are hilarious.
Lucien and Juliana’s interactions are witty and spirited. Their chemistry is full of sparks.

There are a lot of supporting characters and they all blend together nicely with the main characters to move the story along and play well into the story line itself. I especially liked Lucien’s friends Berkeley and Pembroke, and Juliana’s sister, Rose.

“The Duke I Despise” is the second book in Angela Johnson’s Madcaps of Mayfair Series, but it can be read as a standalone.
I highly recommend it to fans of sweet regency romance who love a good Enemies-to-lovers trope, full of wit and humor.

[Gretchen · Rating 5 out of 5]

🤎 #2 in Madcaps of Mayfair
🤎 Regency Romance
🤎 Enemies to Lovers
🤎 No-Spice Romance
- (non-descriptive kissing, some innuendo/teasing)
🤎 Find it on: KU
🤎 Releasing April 1, 2026

Aww sooo cute! It only took me about a chapter to know I was going to love this book. The immediate entry into the plot got me hooked, and I’m glad to say that I stayed invested the whole time. Juliana’s accidental eavesdropping of the Duke of Windsor’s bet had me screaming “nooooo” at my kindle, whilst Lucian’s own fascination with Miss Astley had me giggling and kicking my feet like a school girl. The banter was everything, and I will never get over the witty lines from our main man (even as Juliana cringes at his every sudden appearance).

There’s humor, tenderness, and some good old sisterly mischief wrapped up in this regency romance. Plus, as a fellow clumsy girl, what more could you ask for then to fall into the arms of a handsome gentleman? Even one you despise.

I can't wait to read about Rose + the Duke of Pembroke in the next book!

Thank you to Angela Johnson for the ARC copy!

[Catherine Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke I Despise is book 2 of the Madcaps of Mayfair series. It ticked so many boxes for me ensuring I was thoroughly entertained as I read this book
⭐ regency
⭐ sweet romance (no spice)
⭐ sassy interactions
⭐ enemies to lovers

I was caught up in this book right from the beginning - Juliana is a unique personality who likes to be in charge and definitely didn't like to be the butt of someone else's jokes. When she accidently overhears the Duke of Windsor making a bet about her she was horrified and that was all she needed to decide he was definitely not for her. Unfortunately for her resolve the Duke is entranced with her and determined to get to know her, the real her. Can she keep her resolve or will his determination win?

I loved the characters, they were well developed and had really fun interactions. I loved how Juliana is clumsy and that was worked to enhance the storyline. The sass between Juliana and the Duke was probably what I enjoyed the most.

This is my first book by Angela Johnson but it won't be my last as I am looking forward to book 3 in this series. I received an advance review copy of this book and am leaving my honest review voluntarily.

[Kiylee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had not read the first book in this series, but that wasn't an issue.

I was surprised, based off the title, that the book was not in 1st person. Personally, I typically enjoy 3rd person better, so that was actually a positive for me, but I almost skipped it because of the title.

I enjoyed the meet cute and the banter. I found myself smiling stupidly several times. I, personally, would have enjoyed knowing a bit more about the FMC. I feel like Lucian's story was shared more than hers. (Maybe that comes down to me not reading the first book.) She was clumsy and she helped the poor. That's the only thing I could really say about her. I'm not even certain how old she was.

QUOTES I LOVED:

"In the future, how shall I convey a token of my admiration, if not by hitting a ball in your direction?"

"Women prefer flowers, Your Grace."

Julianna could not help thinking that if moments meant nothing, they would not linger so stubbornly.

Overall, my first time reading this author, and I would reach for another one by her.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[SH · Rating 3 out of 5]

The premise is immediately engaging as Lucian Montrose, the Duke of Windsor has not thought how his wager will spark a battle of wits with Miss Juliana Astley, a heroine who is determined not to be charmed. Juliana can certainly hold her own, and the dynamic between her and Lucian creates plenty of entertaining moments. Their exchanges are often witty and spirited, and the gradual build of their relationship gives the story that satisfying slow-burn feel.
However, I did find some of their dialogue a little stilted at times, which occasionally pulled me out of the story. While the chemistry is there, I struggled to fully connect with Juliana, as her responses to Lucian sometimes felt overly dismissive, to the point where I found myself questioning his persistence. Because of this, the emotional payoff didn’t land quite as strongly as I had hoped.
Even so, the novel has a lot to enjoy, and I found the supporting cast added depth and charm to the story. I am also looking forward to seeing if Rose will have her own story.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Beatriz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Blurb: Miss Juliana Astley is far too clever to fall for a silver-tongued duke—particularly one foolish enough to wager on stealing a kiss from her. So when she overhears the Duke of Windsor boasting to his friends and discovers he has written her name in White’s infamous betting book, she does not swoon.

She plots her revenge.

Lucian Montrose, the Duke of Windsor, is thoroughly baffled by one woman—Miss Juliana Astley. His effortless charm is met with suspicion, sharp wit, and responses that would send most men retreating. Lucian, however, finds it entirely encouraging. Every attempt to win her favor backfires spectacularly, only strengthening his resolve. But just when he begins to suspect victory may be near, a scandalous calling card bearing his name begins circulating through the ton…though even he cannot explain its origin.

A funny enemies to lovers book. I have enjoyed reading It !
Is the 2bnd book in a series and altough It can be read as a standslone I would like to read the previous featuring the older sister and the Next about the younger sister Who also appears in this book. Good job Ángela!

[Melissa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book more. I liked the overall story and believe it to be an entertaining, quick read. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get past the heroine’s dislike for the duke. Did he mess up? Yes. Should she have been mad about what was done? Yes. Should the conflict have lasted most of the book and her part escalate to be worse and more devious than the slight made toward her? I don’t think so. The more she complained about the hero and what was done left me sour. Instead of rising and showing what good character should look like, she stoops to being worse than the duke. Why does she get off so easily? I am looking forward to the next book. I hope to see her younger sister learns from older sister’s her mistakes. To be far this is the first book in the series I have read. Maybe the first book, the story of the oldest sister, showed a little history as to why the middle sister acted the way she did. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Purple Turtle Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clean Regency is my favorite genre, and Angela E. Johnson's newest release met my high expectations! Juliana and Lucian were two of my favorite characters--I loved their banter, hate-to-love dynamic, and of course, the kisses! 😍 The plot was also very interesting--the incorporation of White's betting book was a fun (and kind of scandalous) addition! I also really liked the other characters and will definitely be reading Rose's story in book #3! If you're looking for a Bridgerton-type read without the spice, the Madcaps of Mayfair series is waiting for you! Oh, and if you love enemies-to-lovers (seriously, Juliana wanted absolutely nothing to do with him 😅), you've found your next read! ❤️

If you enjoy stories with:
✨ Sisters in chaos
✨ Enemies to lovers
✨ Persistent hero
✨ Friendships that are forever
✨ Headstrong FMC
✨ Love to hate
You'll love this one! ❤️

✨ The Duke I Despise is the second novel in the "Madcaps of Mayfair" series, though it can be read as a standalone. Suitable for young adult readers and older. ✨

[Leann Arave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another delightful story in this series. The wit and banter carried this book from first page to the last page. Juliana Astley is a forced to be reckoned with. No one was going to pull the wool over her eyes, not even a duke. Lucian Montrose, the Duke of Windsor is in over his head and his heart is not far behind. Juliana Astley is consuming his thoughts from the moment when blindly they were in each other’s arms. But his uncle has other ideas for his future.
I thought this was an entertaining and charming Regency romance. Intriguing, escapades, sweet romance, and highly enjoyable turn of events, will keep a smile on your face and a thumping in your heart.
It is the second book in the series following the Astley sisters. It can be read as a standalone, but some characters overlap.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Joelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh how delightful Juliana and Lucien are! Such fantastic characters with a great enemies to lovers chemistry that keeps the reader captivated from the very beginning. Well at least enemies from Juliana's end of the story. I laughed multiple times over the antics and situations these two found themselves in.

This is a Regency romance done right. Johnson has such a beautiful and fun way of writing that creates such a vivid, exciting and romantic story. The characters truly are fantastic and watching their stories roll out more as you keep reading truly was a delight. And the side characters, the supporting friends and family are the cherry on top.

If you are in the mood for some laughs and some Regency romance, definitely pick this one up. Johnson is one of my favorite authors when it comes to this genre!

*I received an advanced copy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.

[MEF · Rating 4 out of 5]

I likedJuliana from the first chapter , she combines self modesty with a strong dash of daredevilry and doesn’t back away from a challenge.

Duke Lucian grew on me, I found his back story a stretch of my belief so maybe that coloured my view.

Still, he’s a likeable charmer and once he finds his backbone and motivation he’s much more than his veneer.

Despite her naivety Juliana can be a tough cookie and the “treat ‘em mean keep ‘em keen” adage seems to do her an unlooked for favour!

The friendship among the three Lords is an amusing backdrop that feeds into the story and builds the characters.

If you like fun, flirty romance with a convincing Regency vibe - then turn the first page and dive in!

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[LV · Rating 5 out of 5]

The series is perfectly entitled madcaps for a reason as this love story is full of the most wonderful and humorous escapades. A natural connection between two people, is halted by arrogance leading to a stupid bet the provokes vengeance. A elegant and smoothly written prose, the character of Julianna is endearing and clever. The Duke is inexplicably drawn to her after quite an amusing meet cute, even going against his family's wishes. I did find myself slightly put off by his arrogance and immaturity at times however they are traits key to the plot, he does of course have many redeamable qualities.

This was my first time reading this author but has left me with a desire to read the rest of the series. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Ellen Helpman · Rating 4 out of 5]

* I Received an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an Honest Review *

This story was a delight to read from start to finish!

Lucian Montrose is a well-known and well-liked member of Mayfair society, not to mention a Duke. Despite being full of charm and easy friendliness, he battles scars from childhood, and deals with a difficult family member that has become far too overbearing.

Enter Juliana Astley. She has a similar ease and wit as Lucian, yet somehow manages to get on the wrong foot during a social event. She struggles with her private attraction towards him, yet publicly determines to get revenge on what she deems an unforgivable offense.

If you want to find out what HE did to offend HER, as well as dive into a delightful, banter-filled story set against a Regency backdrop, you must pick up a copy of this today!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

a glimpses and kisses Regency romance.

This he-falls-first enemies to lovers book had legitimate reasons for the enmity, and more than that, it shows the ways in which the Duke earns Juliana’s affection, and genuine remorse once he understands what he did to upset her.

I loved that the FMC, Juliana, doesn’t just sit back and take it when the Duke of Wessex offends her, she and her sister proceed to prank him, in a way that needles him but keeps themselves from getting caught.

This book is funny, and the relationship between Juliana and the Duke is charming without ignoring the more serious concerns that Juliana has about some of the Duke’s actions.

I highly recommend this novel

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jordan Rolsma · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Angela's that I've read, and I'm HOOKED. On everything. Her writing style is beautiful, and she did a fantastic job of capturing the chemistry, banter, and restraint between Juliana and Windsor. The pacing kept me engaged throughout, and all of the supporting characters contributed wonderfully to the story. There was plenty of mischief that made me laugh, and there was a perfect balance struck between romantic tension and keeping the plot sweet, clean, and chivalrous. I'm so excited to read more of Angela's books, and I'm looking forward to Rose and Pembroke's upcoming story!

** I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. **