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The Duchess’s Darling Debutantes #2

The Unlucky Lady’s Scandalous Earl

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"My nephew is incorrigible, you'd be wise to pay him no mind. He is also alarmingly charming. Which is rather half the trouble." — The Dowager Duchess of Ashworth, whose patience for nephews is wearing thin

He's London's golden boy. She's been jilted. Twice.

The Earl of Stratton is the heir to a dukedom, for heaven's sake. He could have his pick of young ladies. And yet, here he is, fawning over the debutante the ton has not-so-affectionately dubbed "Cast-Off Clarissa."

Is it out of the goodness of his heart? No. Of course not. Lady Clarissa Whitfield might be clumsy and incurably talkative, but she is not naive enough to believe the great and charming Earl is truly smitten with her.

Kit is being paid for this performance. And all so Clarissa can survive this Season and choose a husband for herself before her parents step in and make the choice for her.

The only problem is, Kit is very good at his job. Too good. His ridiculous compliments make her laugh. His teasing makes her forget she's supposed to be silent. And the more time she spends with him, the more glimpses she catches of something underneath the charm — a man hiding a debt he refuses to explain, and a kindness he's determined no one should see.

It can't be real. He's been paid. Hasn't he?

But if Kit's devotion is nothing more than a very expensive performance, why does Clarissa keep wondering who he's actually trying to save?

And why does she so desperately hope it might be her?

A sweet, standalone Regency romance with witty banter, swoony kisses, and one very expensive courtship.

216 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 28, 2026

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Maggie Dallen

178 books1,059 followers

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Audra.
Author 4 books24 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 15, 2026
This is Book 2 in the The Duchess’s Darling Debutantes series. I found it just as fun and entertaining as Book 1. As an overview, I’m delighted that so many characters returned to continue the race to catch the over-arcing villain whose depth of ruthlessness spreads like poison through the balls, musicales, and other polite entertainment where gossip flourishes.

Lady Clarissa Whitfield has been labeled Cast-Off Clarissa by the ton. We met her in Book 1 when she enthusiastically released the Marquess of Blackwood from their “understanding” enabling him to pursue his real love, which in turn, allowed Clarissa to pursue the man she thought she loved. She went through all that effort and what did it get her? A man who had so little faith in her, he became engaged to another before Clarissa even returned from London. No gentleman of good breeding would touch her with a 10 foot pole now.

Kit, the Earl of Stratton, is the ton’s golden boy. He’s handsome, charming, the heir to a dukedom … and he needs funds badly. His aunt, the Dowager Duchess of Ashworth, hesitates to loan him money when he won’t tell her what it’s for. It’s a secret, you see. A family secret he won’t reveal to anyone.

Step in Lady Clarissa, the duchess’s newest project. Lady Clarissa needs the ton to see her in a new, desirable light and Kit’s just the man for the job. He’ll get paid, of course, enough to keep his very expensive secret safe.

It’s a dangerous game, these relationships of convenience. Reputations are at stake; hearts are on the line; and secrets have a way of coming to light. But oh, what a sweet, entertaining, laugh-out-loud, adventure as Clarissa and Kit discover the true answer to “What do you want?”

PS - the kiss is well worth waiting for!!

Maggie Dallen is a gifted author whose sense of humor and compassion come alive in the Regency characters she creates. Book 3 is coming out when??

I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
214 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 12, 2026
I read this book in one day, only putting it aside for other responsibilities (how dare real life get in the way of a good book!). This is book 2 of the The Duchess’s Darling Debutantes series and follows on nicely from book 1 with new characters while building on the relationships and storyline within book 1. I found it was an easyread, clean and entertaining regency book with a mix of both the lighthearted and serious moments.

In a world where your reputation is everything Clarissa finds herself in the misfortunate place of having lost hers before her season has really even started. A nickname of  "Cast-Off Clarissa" sees her the topic of gossip and no-one wants to know her. She is thankful to know one person, Estella, who links her together with the Dowager Duchess of Ashworth who makes a plan to return her into the favour of the ton. Enter Kit, the Duchess' nephew, who has newly arrived into town. He escorts her around town turning her into someone people want to know. And gets to know her and see beneath the facade as he does so. Unfortunately he has secrets and when those come out can their tentative friendship survive them and the tons ridicule?

I enjoyed this storyline which had story components I haven't read before along with humorous banter which kept it entertaining.  It flowed easily and leaves me eagerly looking forward to the next book. It can be read as a standalone but I think would be best read after book 1. 
Profile Image for Janet.
5,458 reviews67 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 26, 2026
Kit, the Earl of Stratton is the heir to a dukedom, for heaven's sake but his father keeps him on a tight budget & Kit needs some money. So he visits his Aunt Philippa who strikes a bargain he’ll fawn over the debutante the ton has not-so-affectionately dubbed "Cast-Off Clarissa." In exchange for some money. Lady Clarissa Whitfield might be clumsy and incurably talkative, but she is not naive enough to believe the great and charming Earl is truly smitten with her. The only problem is, they make each other laugh & they enjoy being together.
I loved this book, it flowed effortlessly, the characters were well portrayed & had depth & my heart wept for Clarissa. I loved both Kit & Clarissa who were attracted to each other from their first meeting & that only grew the more time they spent together, they were perfect for each other but gossip & rumours nearly forced them apart. There’s also an ongoing thread about the Dowager Duchess’ sister & this causes problems. I disliked how the ton fed on rumours, I also really, really disliked Kit’s father & I hope he gets his comeuppance for all he’s put Kit through. A really lovely romance with some mystery, delightful secondary characters & an older lady who’s all seeing
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
152 reviews6 followers
July 29, 2026
Kit, the Earl of Stratton is the heir to a dukedom and he is London's scandalous golden boy. She is beautiful and guileless and has been been jilted. Twice. They cruelly mock her in the ton as “Cast-Off Clarissa."
With rumours threatening both him and her in different ways. His worried aunt urges him to be careful when he elects to help Clarissa out of the goodness of his heart and for much needed money. He proposes to favour her and bring her to the attention of marriage minded suitors. Kit will be paid for this performance all so Clarissa can survive this disastrous season and secure husband for herself before her parents step in and make the choice for her.
The only problem is the more time they spend together, the more they begin to feel for each other. Can they really find a HEA with Kit’s ever blackening reputation and Clarissa’s continuing run of bad luck in the eyes of her peers? There are real issues and villainous characters to be overcome before everything is resolved in the dramatic final chapters. What is addictive is the sweet warm friendship that becomes deeper love that these two main characters display for each other through the journey. This is another winner by Maggie Dallen hands down!
Profile Image for Ann.
105 reviews
July 30, 2026
Excellent! Loved the storyline, loved the characters. They’re likeable and funny. The story is complex and interesting. I was engaged from the first page.

Kit, the handsome Earl of Stratton, with a reputation of a lovable rogue is stunned and enthralled by the extraordinary presence of a young woman at a coaching inn who barely notices him. Lady Clarissa Whitfield, publicly humiliated after losing not one, but two suitors, needs a patron to navigate the season and survive the scandal. The dowager Duchess of Ashworth agrees to help and enlists the support of her nephew, Kit Stratton who agrees to take an interest in Clarissa, who actually is his unknown young lady, and help increase her popularity. The trouble is the scandals keep on coming and you begin to wonder how anyone can be so unlucky or is there something else going on here?

I received an ARC cope from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
79 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 14, 2026
The Unlucky Lady’s Scandalous Earl is an absolute gem. I was literally smiling the entire time I was reading it. Kit reminded me of Flynn Ryder from Tangled with his charm and looks and flirty nature but heart of gold and sincerity at the core. You could see that Clarissa was going to be so lovely from the previous book and she was so much more. Sweet, caring and lovable but with a spine of steel.
Also, can we talk about how funny this book is? Literally laughing out loud multiple times. The comic relief is so refreshing in a Regency novel (often attempted by others very unsuccessfully). It is witty and dry and freaking hilarious. Aunt Philippa is my new hero.
Seriously Thea is one of my favorite all time characters. I cannot wait for her book, but as long as we get her as a side character while we wait I’m happy.
Maggie Dallen is the queen of Regency done to perfection!
60 reviews2 followers
July 28, 2026
Kit and Clarissa’s story is such a great continuation of this series! Kit is keeping a secret that could endanger an innocent woman and ruin his family reputation. Clarissa has just been jilted twice in the same season, which has caused irreparable damage to her reputation. A brief, chance meeting at an inn has left them thinking of the stranger they met in passing. After meeting again in London, a chance comes for them to work together to save her reputation, and allow him the finances needed to protect his secret. The plan didn’t include falling in love. There are those who lurk in the shadows trying to destroy them, but at the same time, there are friends and family who surround them with support and love. Several favorite characters have returned for this book, and it feels like a family reunion. I now find myself having to wait patiently for the next story in the series.
827 reviews12 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 11, 2026
Lady Clarissa has been given the nickname “Cast-off-Clarissa” because 2 gentlemen cancelled her engagement, one she asked for the Marquess to back out, and one was because the Vicar changed his mind. While she is in town, she is introduced to Duchess Ashworth who wants to help her. The Duchess asks her nephew Kit, an Earl, to pay attention to Clarissa hoping other gentlemen would change their mind about Clarissa. Kit is a fun, loving man, and he is a little too good at pretending. I liked that the characters from the first book in the series were in this book. I am looking forward to the next book, it is not Thea, but I know I will enjoy it also.
I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Franki.
405 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 12, 2026
Regency Romance with a touch of mystery and the whimsy of Fairytale
As great as the first story was, this story was even better. The mystery of who wants to hurt the Duchess and how they plan to do it deepens.
Within this larger story the romance of Clarissa and Kit struggles for life. Clarissa can’t seem to catch a break with society. Kit can’t catch a break.
The Duchess struggles to keep the people she loves safe and longs for the enjoyment of trying to help young women in society, if her problems don’t become these young ladies’ liability.
Such a fun story and I can’t wait to read more from this series.
I received an advanced reading copy of this story. I am leaving a voluntary review.
Profile Image for Nicole.
370 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 23, 2026
Yes! This is EXACTLY what I want from a clean/sweet Regency romance. I feel like it can be tricky to find a good balance in Regencies--there are tropes you want to see again but you want them to feel fresh. And this did just that. The golden boy hero (admittedly a favorite of mine) is beleaguered. The heroine has the right mix of independence and vulnerability (anyone who has ever felt or even feared embarrassment in love will find her sympathetic). The supporting cast is familiar from the earlier novel in this series, and the thread of a mystery that runs through the series developed well in this book. Loved this.


I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Melissa.
94 reviews1 follower
July 30, 2026
Every decision matters with this story. It is a great addition to the series. Kit and Clarissa definitely have a bumpy road. I love how Clarissa keeps showing up for herself even when she has made a mistake. She is brave. Kit took me a little longer to warm up to. I don’t think he’s good enough for Clarissa but he comes around in the end with a HEA ending. I have to say though I enjoyed reading more about the side characters. Clarissa’s brother sounds like a wonderful fellow. He loves his sister and I hope he gets a HEA as well. I do wish we could have read some of Clarissa’s stories though. I really liked this book. Can’t wait for the next one!
I received an advanced copy and am leaving my honest review.
Profile Image for Carrie Hearle.
22 reviews
July 31, 2026
Another good book from this amazing author.

This book continues the main story line from the first book. It can be read as a stand alone but I think is better enjoyed if the first book in the series is read first.

This book follows Kit and Clarissa.

Kit is in dire need of money but won't say what it is for. He asks his Aunt the Dowager Duchess for it, but she refuses. His Aunt decides to hire him so he can get the money he needs and she gets the help she needs. So he is somewhat forced to help Clarissa who is being called cast off Clarissa.

There is just the right amount of romance and a little mystery.

I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the remaining books in the series.
Profile Image for Peggy.
2,236 reviews12 followers
August 2, 2026
Kit, the Earl of Stratton, will someday be a duke. For the moment he is living the life of a rake and his father is trying to keep him on a tight rope. In need of funds, he goes to Aunt Philippa. She originally turns him down flat, but agree to help him if he will escort Lady Clarissa around so that she will be notice by other gentlemen. Lady Clarissa Whitfield has been jilted twice and is known as “Cast-Off Clarissa.” She is also somewhat clumsy and talkative. Kit agrees. It seems to be working, but not quite as they expect. These two enjoy being with each other. This is a delightful and entertaining story. Kit and Clarissa are charming characters, and a good fit. There are some hitches, and a villain or two to see to, but things do come right. A good read!
I voluntarily reviewed a special copy of this book.
Profile Image for Roslyn Stillman.
572 reviews16 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 13, 2026
This is the second book in this new series. I love this series. These books I find hard to put down once I start to read them. They are always a delight to read between more serious books. They are always a clean and sweet romance, and this one is no different. The heroine is strong and independent, and knows what she wants and goes after it. The hero tender hearted and caring. There is a lot of laughter and joy, but of course there is those moments of heartbreak and secrets. There is also a good underlying mystery throughout the books, which increases the enjoyment.I look forward to the next chapter in the series. I received this as an ARC and freely give my review.,
2 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 15, 2026
It's not often the second book is as good as the first, but this series has nailed it! The writing is so good you get completely immersed in the story and it feels like you're right there with them. I love how relatable Clarissa is and the internal struggle she has with wondering if she really is a bad judge of character. I hear ya girl! I love her character, like morally, she is a beautiful person and I love that she has a happy ending. I can't wait to read the rest of the series when they get released. So far both book one and this book have woven in a bigger mystery and I'm dying to find out more details.
4 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 13, 2026
“There she is.” I had no idea those three words could be better than “I love you,” but they absolutely were. A delightful story about embracing who you are and finding people who will love you authentically as well. This book was a true pleasure to read. Both main characters were instantly likeable and while there was drama, it wasn't the kind that makes you want to shake some sense into someone. Clarissa and Kit's story is one I will absolutely read again. And of course, the Dowager Duchess of Ashworth's story continues… I can't wait!
1,678 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 11, 2026
“The Unlucky Lady’s Scandalous Earl” (The Duchess’s Darling Debutantes, book 2) by Maggie Dallen
A Sweet Romance with Difficulties
Yes, I loved this sweet Regency romance story with its fair share of ‘rough’ patches. This story kept me reading more hours at a time than I had planned. But, hey, I am not complaining. It was a fun read with the required laughs, tears, anticipation, and happy ending. Happy Reading ! !
36 reviews3 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 17, 2026
I love a good redemption story and The Unlucky Lady’s Scandalous Earl is one of the best. Our heroine, Clarissa, is a bit unusual for a demure debutante and has suffered two monstrous disasters. Our hero, Kit, needs his own savior as well. Together they can find their way back into the good graces of the ton, but travel a convoluted journey to accomplish it. I truly enjoyed reading this one.
2,527 reviews7 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 22, 2026
When Clarissa finally decides to stand up for the man she feels she loves, she lands herself in an embarrassing and disillusioned situation. When Kit offers to help his aunt assist Clarissa in regaining her reputation with the ton it ends up only making matters worse. How that happens along with how both he and Clarissa ultimately find their hea is reveal in this delightful book.
100 reviews1 follower
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 16, 2026
This was a sweet take on the fake relationship trope! I always love seeing the characters get to know each other and become comfortable together. The supporting characters were well-thought out and I can’t wait to read the upcoming books about some of them! Overall, a fun, summer read!
Profile Image for Sam Atkinson.
695 reviews8 followers
August 5, 2026
This book is a delight.

I am looking forward to the next in the series and especially to the one featuring Thea & Gage whenever that appears
Profile Image for Ashley.
13 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
July 28, 2026
First let me say I received an advanced copy and am leaving my honest review of this book. So far, the first book in this series is my favorite. Don't get me wrong Clarissa & Kit had to overcome a lot as well.

I will say I truly enjoyed this book. It took me 24 hours to finish (still had to do normal everyday stuff). Kit's story is unique. I've read tons of historical romance (almost 20 years worth) and I can't recall ever reading anything along these lines. So, that was interesting.

Poor Lady Clarissa and the horrid name they gave her! My goodness... Honestly I can see people acting like that back then because humans don't change.

Altogether I highly recommend this Maggie Dallen book just like all the rest of her books - it's a warm heartfelt historical romance! No need to hide your face in public because of what you're reading! This is a wholesome romance. I can show up in church and not be embarrassed! I can't read the smut books they're just not my thing.

Thanks for writing such an amazing book! I'm looking forward to the next. And of course I can't wait for Thea's and her hero's!
7 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
August 4, 2026
I loved this story, and it is the perfect follow up to the first book. I would highly recommend reading this series in order, since there is a mystery woven into the story that continues through the series.

The heroine in this book is a very chatty young lady who wears her heart on her sleeve but has had the misfortune of being jilted and become a pariah in society. The hero is a charming young earl who is hiding a secret that’s not his own. They come together in a fake courtship to try to improve her image, but things don’t work out the way they expected.

This was a quick and fun read, and it is no spice with kisses only. I’ve enjoyed reading this series so far and am really looking forward to the next one!

I received an advance reader copy from the author for my honest review.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews