Redonk Nutshell: Woman takes it onto herself to clear her father’s name by marrying into the elusive Egyptian Club

Cecily Hurston is hellbent on clearing her father’s good name.  Having returned from a disastrous expedition in Egypt an invalid, Cecily is convinced that the answer to what really happened is in his journals.  The journals, however, are being kept by the Egyptian Club, an exclusive club for aristos in London.  The only way she’d be admitted is if her husband is a member.  So of course, Cecily sets out to find herself a card carrying member of the club and marry him PRONTO.  When Lucas Dalton, the brother of the man who is missing from Cecily’s father’s expedition,  comes stumbling into her scheme, the two work together.  And sparks fly.

How to Dance with a Duke is a lovely start to what will likely be an fun series featuring three women who have been christened “The Ugly Ducklings.”  All three women are approaching spinster age.  They’re smart and witty as well as lovely.  I enjoyed Ms. Collins’ story, though it’s not one I envision reading again.  I’m a sucker for Egypt-themed tales, and this reads like a mystery/thriller set in London and shrouded with ancient Egyptian tones.  It’s quite lovely.

How to Dance with a Duke by Manda Collins

Rating: C

Romance: 3/5            Raunch: 3/5