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The Silver Duchesses #1

A Knight on Duchess Square

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296 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 15, 2026

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About the author

Meara Platt

120 books897 followers
Meara Platt is happily married to her Russell Crowe look-alike husband, and they have two terrific children. She lives in one of the many great towns on Long Island, New York, and loves it, except for the traffic. She has traveled extensively, occasionally lectures and finds time to write. Her favorite place in all the world is England’s Lake District, which may not come as a surprise since many of her stories are set in that idyllic landscape, including her Romance Writers of America Golden Heart award winning story.

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5 stars
389 (64%)
4 stars
148 (24%)
3 stars
47 (7%)
2 stars
19 (3%)
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3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for Lana Birky.
1,759 reviews25 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 13, 2026
Hero, Gideon Knight - If tall, dark, and “I own half the gambling dens in London but would still carry you home in the rain” is your type, congratulations - you’re about to swoon yourself into next week. Gideon is protective, loyal, smoldering, and just dangerous enough to make Society ladies drop their fans and pretend it’s a hot flash. He’s the kind of man who walks into a Mayfair drawing room and suddenly every titled gentleman feels underdressed.

Heroine, Lady Berry Thane - Berry is the sweetest cinnamon roll to ever grace a Regency ballroom - except she actually has a backbone, a brain, and a heart big enough to melt a hardened cynic like Gideon. She’s nearing thirty, convinced love has passed her by, and then bam, her new neighbor shows up looking like trouble wrapped in "no shirt" working on his own new purchase and the Duchess Square ladies have spent the last week staring at him out Berry's window. Her kindness isn’t naïveté; it’s her superpower.

When Gideon Knight, self-made, scandalously gorgeous, and absolutely not Mayfair-approved, moves next door to Lady Berry, sparks fly faster than wagers at one of his gaming tables. He thinks she’s too good for him. She thinks he’s too dangerous for her. They are both wrong in the most delicious way. Just when their slow-burn attraction starts to simmer, danger strikes. Berry is abducted by a fortune-hunting viscount (as one does in Regency London), and Gideon charges in like the knight his name promises. There’s romance, suspense, humor, and even a secondary love story tucked in like a bonus treat.

A Knight on Duchess Square is everything I adore about Meara Platt; heartfelt, witty, romantic, and sprinkled with just enough danger to keep you perched on the edge of your chaise. Gideon and Berry are the kind of couple you root for from page one - his rough edges, her gentle strength, and the way they fit together like fate finally got something right. It’s beautifully written, utterly unputdownable, and yes… I sobbed. More than once. But I also laughed, swooned, and cheered. This is Meara at her best - full of heart, humor, and HEA magic. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
468 reviews14 followers
March 17, 2026
Loved loved loved this sweet romance between rugged Gideon and lovely Berry who is just the sweetest woman. I just loved everything about it! Gideon grew up in an orphanage so he’s always aware of his lowly upbringing and the huge gap between his life and that of the titled peers of the ton. He never expects to be accepted but Berry has a heart of gold and sees him for the honorable man he is. They both cannot help falling in love with each other. I loved that their romance progressed very naturally and that they both talked about their positions and their feelings.
There is one intimate scene but without any explicit descriptions, which I found refreshing. Everything in this book focusses on true intimacy, which is the connection, respect and appreciation between Berry and Gideon; the meeting of the minds; honest, open conversations, depth and deep, true love.
This book was satisfying in every way, with its wonderful primary and secondary characters, great world building, not one but two true love stories, honest, open conversations, a bit of humor and a few life lessons. I liked this one: “Do you want a man to love and respect you? Then try loving and respecting him.”
And I liked Berry’s opinion of the ton:
“You seem to think I disapprove.”
“Don’t you? Shouldn’t you?”
“Those in the ton think I should, but this is because they wish to maintain class differences to protect their privileges. Morality and righteousness have nothing to do with it. Selfishness and entitlement are their reasons. The ones fighting hardest to protect the benefits of their rank are those who are least deserving, men such as Hawthorne. They offer nothing helpful or productive and yet demand the most.”

I thoroughly enjoyed this book in every way and cannot wait for the next book in this ‘Silver Duchesses’ series. I highly recommend this book and am eagerly awaiting the next book!
Thank you Meara Platt for writing this wonderful book! I thank you and thank NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reading copy. I voluntarily read and reviewed it, all opinions are my own.
Profile Image for BookForAHeart.
366 reviews27 followers
March 19, 2026
If you're in the mood for a story filled with charm, swoon-worthy moments, and a dash of adventure, A Knight on Duchess Square is an absolute must-read! 🏰💖 Gideon Knight, the tough, cynical gambler who’s fought his way up from nothing, is a hero you can’t help but root for. His journey from an orphanage to owning the most profitable gambling clubs in London is inspiring, and his bold move to buy the neighboring townhouse in Mayfair is his way of showing the world he’s just as worthy as any titled lord.

Lady Berry Thane, known as Berry to her friends, is a lovely, innocent woman who’s nearing thirty and has never experienced true love. 💔💫 She’s surrounded by suitors, but none have ever made her heart flutter until Gideon moves in next door. Her world brightens with hope, and her heart begins to dream of love, even though she knows he’s considered a rough and dangerous outsider. Their worlds couldn’t be more different she’s a celebrated lady of society, and he’s a self-made man with a reputation to match. Yet, their chemistry is undeniable. 💘✨

The story is packed with all the classic tropes: the bad boy who wins over the good girl, rags to riches, and the spinster who finds her true love when she least expects it. When Berry is abducted by a fortune-hunting viscount and her life hangs in the balance, Gideon’s true heroism shines through as he risks everything to save her. Will their love survive the danger and societal barriers? You'll be on the edge of your seat waiting to find out!

This charming tale is full of moments that will melt your heart, Gideon’s protectiveness, Berry’s bravery, and the undeniable spark between them. It’s a story about overcoming prejudice, daring to love, and finding happiness in unexpected places. 🌹💕
Profile Image for Janet.
5,358 reviews68 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 12, 2026
Gideon Knight was abandoned as a child & is hardened and cynical but has become a successful business man & gambling den owner. He buys a house on Duchess Square & meets his lovely neighbour, Lady Berry Thane, a woman completely out of his reach. Yet Lady Berry & her friends are different. They accept him and cheers him on. All the barriers he has erected around his heart crumble & he falls hard for this innocent spinster, and he knows he will risk everything to keep her safe when her life is suddenly in danger. Lady Berengaria Thane, known as Berry to her friends, is certain she will never find love now that she is nearing thirty and has never had a serious beau. She is not short of gentlemen callers, but most only want her for her fortune. Then Gideon Thane moves in next door, and her heart melts, her body tingles, and hope springs awake.
The first in a new series & a spin off from the Silver Dukes series – Gideon buys Fiona’s house. I just loved everything about it. Gideon is my kind of hero, gorgeous, protective, loyal, caring & a bit of a bad boy. Berry is on the surface too good to be true but she really has the sweetest nature together they were a delight & I was routing for them all the way through. I loved the image of upright society ladies ogling Gideon! It was a truly lovely romance with some danger that had me on the edge of my seat. There was even a secondary romance. A beautifully written unputdownable romance
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
402 reviews1 follower
March 19, 2026
Lady Berengaria Thane lived on Duchess Square with her chaperone Mrs. Gordon and her employees. She and her society friends were enjoying the view as a house close by was being renovated by the new owner. A view provided by the new owner, Gideon Knight, unbeknownst to the ladies. Berry met Gideon when she went over to his home to complain of the noise and was almost hit by falling debris from the roof. Although Gideon did not identify himself as the owner, he showed his appreciation of Berry's families interest in St. Brigid's the orphanage he grew up in by giving Berry her first kiss. Despite their being from different social classes, the attraction between them was undeniable and as they got to spend more time together they realized the attraction had grown to love. As they work together to overcome the expectations of society, their love only grows stronger as Gideon and his employees rescue Berry and her trustee. Lord Berwick, from the villain and his friends who were attempting to kidnap her and force her to marry him in order to get his hands on her trust fund. A bonus was the relationship that develops between Gideon's business partner and Berry's friend and neighbor, Suzanna. An action packed, well plotted story with a HEA.
Profile Image for Bridget Love to read Lewis.
2,619 reviews30 followers
March 16, 2026
We have Lady Berengaria Thane, known as Berry to her friends as Berry. She hosts weekly meetings at her home to discuss the orphanage at St Brighid among others. Next door is Gideon Knight a self made man who grew up in this same orphanage! He constantly works with his shirt off which is great entertainment for their group! Gideon and Berry are like magnets that strongly attract! But he is so far beneath her an orphan from the same orphanage she sponsors! Berry is a heiress and she has one persistent suitor who will stop at nothing to have her or her money! Gideon is ruthless in business and a natural protector! He and Berry have a lot in common but the Ton may be very unforgiving of a match! Berry doesn’t care but is concerned over her orphanage loosing the patronage! But that’s the least of their worries after Berry and her guardian are brutally attacked! Gideon has to stand back and let Bow Street intervene but justice will be swift! He protects his own! There is another couple who have their own HEA too in this story! Gideon is your new book boyfriend! I received an ARC copy from Netgalley for my unbiased opinion!
1,376 reviews16 followers
April 20, 2026
A Delightful Historical Romance
Berry and Gideon are such a compelling pair. Berry has all but resigned herself to a life without love—until her new neighbor arrives and quietly changes everything. Gideon, once an orphan with nothing to his name, has built his own fortune and place in the world. On paper, they couldn’t be more different, their lives shaped by opposite ends of the social spectrum. But does any of that really matter when something deeper begins to take hold?
Berry’s wealth draws attention of the worst kind, and when that danger turns real, Gideon doesn’t hesitate. There’s something especially satisfying about the way he steps in—determined, protective, and unwilling to let anything happen to her.
I enjoyed this story very much. The characters are warm and easy to root for, and I found myself drawn into how their relationship develops. It’s the kind of story that makes you wonder how they’ll bridge the gap between their worlds. I’d recommend this to readers who enjoy historical romance with class differences, a touch of suspense, and a love story that keeps you invested in the outcome.
Profile Image for Colorado.
909 reviews19 followers
April 25, 2026
He's a self-made man and she's a member of the nobility

This novel is set at the end of the Regency era as change is disrupting the social order. The rise of trade has created an upwardly mobile class of businessmen while members of the elite continue to show rigid bias towards anyone in commerce. This is a winning romance between Lady Berry, a member of the nobility, and Gabriel, a man who came from nothing and has made his own fortune. Berry is a dedicated philanthropist and the principal sponsor of the orphanage in which Gabriel grew up. Both share a deep commitment to helping people with less and partner on charitable initiatives. While there's sizzling chemistry between the pair, Gabriel worries that a relationship with him will damage Berry's reputation among the ton and limit the upper class' s willingness to contribute to the orphanage. Because of concerns about class differences, this is a slow burn. (It's a closed door romance.) At the same time, he's fiercely committed to protecting Berry. Her wealth has made her the target of a ruthless fortune hunter. The main characters and the entire supporting cast are immensely likable.
Profile Image for Charmaine Fernando.
449 reviews7 followers
May 2, 2026
Another wonderful story from the pen of Meara Platt that did not disappoint. This is the start of the new Silver Duchess series that is very promising and I cannot wait to read the rest of them.

Gideon Knight grew up in an orphanage and is now a successful owner of a slew of successful gambling dens across London. His new residence brings him right next door to Lady Berry Thane who is the exact opposite of Gideon, having a lineage that is well documented and of the best pedigree one can expect.

At the "ripe old age" of almost thirty Berry thinks love has passed her by, until of course she meets her oh so handsome next-door neighbour. The two have a sizzling chemistry that brings them together. All this is put to the test when Berry is abducted by a fortune seeking Viscount. Enter Gideon to the rescue as he charges ahead!

The humour, witty conversation and chemistry are wonderful for this oh so unusual couple and only adds to their HEA. I thoroughly enjoyed this and look forward to the next book in the series. I received an ARC from Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and submit my honest review voluntarily.
659 reviews6 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 12, 2026
I really enjoyed reading the love story of Berry and Gideon. This class difference trope was about Gideon, an orphan who made his way in the world and was one of the wealthiest men in the ton but still wasn’t accepted and Berry, who would have been considered a spinster if it weren’t for her fortune. They were new neighbors, but their lives were connected in more ways than they knew. They became friends and that relationship quickly turned into love that they thought was impossible because of society. They spent lots of time together and when she faced danger, he could no longer deny either of them. They were a cute couple and great characters that made you root for them. This book caught my attention from the start, and I couldn’t put it down. The story had danger, discussions about prejudice and class, orphans, charity work and the good it produced, a few kisses and implied steam, a kidnapping, two love stories, and a HEA.

I received a copy of this book from Net Galley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
1,153 reviews5 followers
March 27, 2026
First in a new series - The Silver Duchesses, although we we meet familiar faces from both the Farthingale and Silver Dukes series.
Lady Berry was orphaned young, but has had Lord Berwick and his wife as stand in parents and trustees to her inheritance. She likes her mother and grandmother before her is involved with the local orphanage St. Brigits, and the orphanage is central to the whole book.
With Lady Fiona having sold her house next door to Berry's the noise from renovations, and the men doing the renovations have distracted the ladies living in the street. When Berry goes to complain she is met by Gideon the new owner, and she learns he and his crew all grew up in the orphanage. Berry ends up helping Gideon decorate his new home, but in spending so much time together they find the,it attraction growing. Gideon knows he can't do anything about it as it would ruin Berry in the eyes of the ton.
I enjoyed seeing the familiar characters again, although Mr Barrow must be near retirement now. As always this author is very readable, this was a little slow getting going. 4.5*
Profile Image for Lesley.
2,579 reviews19 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 14, 2026
An Enjoyable Social Divide Romance.
Gideon Knight is a self-made man, having been raised in an orphanage he has clawed his way to a position of wealth and success. That of course does not mean that he is accepted by the Ton but that doesn’t stop him from purchasing a house on Duchess Square and adding on a ballroom that will likely never be attended. Lady Berry hasn’t met her new neighbour but that doesn’t stop herself and her friends from ogling the hot man working on her neighbour’s noisy renovations. And so begins mistaken identity, attraction and a dangerous threat from a third party.
This story felt very much in the Farthingale vein and there were cameo appearances from some members of the Farthingale family. Looking forward to reading more books in this new series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Natalia.
683 reviews12 followers
March 16, 2026
Enjoyable. At first, the characters captured my attention, and even though it was instalove, the plot seemed promising.

But everything unfolded smoothly, from the minor conflicts to the class differences and, of course, how they managed to become more fortunate with each passing day. A delightful Regency romance, but with zero drama and little depth in the conflicts.

I love reading Regency/ Historical romance, how the characters overcome obstacles and grow while finding their way in their time, but everything seemed very resolved in this book, too harmonious. It's the first book I've read by this author, so I'll definitely will giver her another chance.

Thanks to Meara Platt and Dragonblade publishing for give me a copy of this beautiful book in exchange for my honest and voluntary opinion
Profile Image for Pat Robinson.
929 reviews10 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 12, 2026
To say I devoured this book in one sitting is an understatement ! Gideon is an orphan made big, but the ton thinks he is nothing. Lady Berry is the sweetest lady on God’s green earth. I adored his “bad boy”image against her “sweet angel” . He is what my ‘perfect’ hero would be like-protective, handsome, loyal, and a bit wild and rough around the edges. The story flowed so very well and I adored all the characters. Suzanne and Bonham were fun as well. The villain is very vile and seeing his set down was perfectly done. Truly a wonderful story-one that the author always graces us with and I thoroughly enjoyed it! Very mild love scenes, no crass language (thank you Author!) and can’t wait to see which Silver Duchess falls next!

I received this story for free and these are my own views.
Profile Image for Jenna.
1,762 reviews93 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 19, 2026
I voluntarily read and reviewed this advanced copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I went into this book completely blind and had the most wonderful reading experience. This entire story was an hour-long charm bomb. I had a rollicking good time that I stayed up late to finish it. A Knight on Duchess Square is about new neighbors who escalate from acquaintances to eventual spouses. I cannot emphasize enough how sweet this was to read. The heroine's nickname was Berry and she lived up to her moniker. I likened her to Strawberry Shortcake, giggles and all. I couldn't stop reading this romance and I want to read more from this author. I loved the dynamic between the main couple. Their friendship was special and it was so natural how their relationship progressed. I'm so pumped for the next book if it's anything like this one. If Miss Berry had full access to her family funds, she would totally turn her Duchess Square estate into a giant strawberry faster than you can say "shortcake".

217 reviews3 followers
March 15, 2026
Gideon Knight is an orphan, owner of gaming hells, and a man who has worked his way up in the world.
He buys the home next to Lady Berry and begins renovations. She and her friends like watching him work especially with his shirt off.
Lady Berry and her family have long supported St Brigid orphanage where Gideon was raised.
As their worlds collide, they spend more time together slowly building a romance.
Class differences and worry about the practicalities interferes with their ability to see their future together.
A little danger and a lot of angst adds to the exciting experience of their life together.
Love the epilogue.
I received an ARC but the honest opinion is my own.
Profile Image for Rixxyreadsss.
308 reviews2 followers
March 21, 2026
so goodddd!!!😭💙

got me out of my HR reading slump. Perfection and just so sweet. Loved the caring, overprotective, loyal hero and the kind, compassionate, loving heroine. They are so made for each other.

The progression of their relationship was so natural, slow-burn but so sweet. They truly understood each other and seen each other for who they truly are. Even the side characters are all interesting. Loved the found family vibes as well.

I have read multiple titles from this author and I can say she hasn't disappointed me yet. Miss Platt is truly a very talented writer and I'm looking forward to more from her.
Profile Image for Petula.
3,136 reviews90 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 14, 2026
Another one of my favourite authors has a new historical romance series out. This is amusing and unusual. Not the typical hero. I do love all the characters in this, and I'm sure we will will meet them in future stories as well. We did get a brief visit from old friends from previous books.
I must admit I thought there would be a slightly different ending, but I like this one better than what I expected. We get mischief, danger and giggles. I'm really looking forward to reading the next book.
Great fun.
Profile Image for Margaret.
3,324 reviews33 followers
March 16, 2026
4 1/2*STARS*
Gideon Knight grew up in St
Brigid's Orphanage. Lady Berry is a very wealthy heiress. He's very successful in business and part owner of one of the most profitable clubs in London. He's also the new owner of the house next door to Lady Berry. They may be from different stations, but they grow to love each other. Acceptance may never come if they marry. A slow heat romance with a knight in shining armor, sweet to his kitten.
Kisses and some violence.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from Netgalley.
1,053 reviews13 followers
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 12, 2026
Gideon finally starts to feel like a success when he buys and renovates a Mayfair house. He is attracted to the rich next door neighbor Lady Berry but, as an owner of several gambling dens, feels he is beneath her. When Berry is aggressively pursued by a desperate fortune hunter, Gideon comes to her rescue. Can their love overcome the censure of the ton? I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
Profile Image for Gina.
2,456 reviews33 followers
March 15, 2026
Gideon , raised as an orphan, owner of a gaming parlor and rake moves into a house around the ton. He meets Berry, a sweet and kind woman who fights to expand the orphanage. Two unlikely people who admire each other and when Gideon is given the duty to protect her from a man who only wants her for her dowry he takes it very seriously. The time they spend together turns into love. But is she willing to give up her standing in society for him and will he let her?
78 reviews
March 18, 2026
The Kitten and the Knight

Lovely story, romance with just enough danger to be entertaining. It's about accepting people for who they are not where they came from. The characters evolve nicely throughout the story bridging society gaps and challenges. Of coarse, love concerts all. I'm looking forward to the next book in this series. If you enjoy a nice, light, romantic read this book is for you. Suitable for ages 16 and up I think.
14 reviews
March 19, 2026
you will love this story!

Not only is this a sweet love story but it is a testament to overcoming trials not of one’s own making. Gideon is a victim of circumstance and works to overcome the associated challenges. Berry also has circumstances that could have made her bitter but she chooses happiness. I adore the characters and loved that the storyline was infused with unexpected twists.
711 reviews7 followers
April 8, 2026
Orphans

Her family had started the orphanage; he grew up there. Her friends were members of the Ton. His grew up in the orphanage too. Berry was sweet, kind hearted, and giving. Gideon was a bitter and angry and owned gambling houses. There was no way Society would allow them to fall in love - was there? This is the first book in a new series and boy is it a great start!!!

Profile Image for Shaina.
1,337 reviews8 followers
May 19, 2026
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Meara Platt for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for A Knight on Duchess Square coming out March 15, 2026. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

I’ve read a couple books by this author. I love regency romance. It was an interesting storyline. But I’ve read quite a few stories like this, so it felt a little repetitive. I would check out other books by this author.
26 reviews
March 16, 2026
Another great book!

Love this story. Gideon is an orphan who has done well. Berry is one of the ton. They find themselves falling in love, but can they overcome the prejudices of both sides? It is a great story with laughs, danger, and a HEA. I was snickering at the discussion of the food elevator (shaft). Order it, you will not be sorry!
241 reviews2 followers
March 23, 2026
Reaction

I loved this story! The ladies of Duchess Square aren't above a little ogling their new neighbor. This ogling introduces Gideon to his new neighbor, Barry. He decides he can't fall in love with her and immediately does . This unfolds a relationship that is the class divide of the time. The story is engaging and sweet , a very good read.
225 reviews2 followers
April 12, 2026
A wonderful story about overcoming obstacles and finding great love.

The characters in this story show how those with open hearts can find love even though society would keep them apart. They were able to overcome the prejudice and disapproval of society and find themselves a great love. Recommend this book highly.
273 reviews1 follower
March 15, 2026
Fantastic book!

Really fantastic story. Absolutely loved it. Had trouble putting it down and I’ve finished it by 7pm on the day of its release despite it being a busy day. Cannot wait for the next book in the series.
111 reviews
March 15, 2026
Loved it

Another really gripping story from this author. This is the start of a new series and what a joy it was. Gideon and Berry meet when he buys the house next to hers. Once started I did not want to put it down. Really looking forward to the next book in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews