The Marriage Duel

Clarinda and Nigel are in love and want to get married; the only problem with that is Clarinda’s sister Jane, who as the elder daughter, must marry first. Jane is an outspoken, rich, avowed spinster who is firmly “on the shelf” at the ancient age of 23; her only real friends are the many animals that she has rescued. Jane’s had plenty of marriage offers, but her romantic heart holds out hope for true love.
Nigel presents the perfect solution to his best friend Randolph Ware, the Viscount Masters. Marry Jane, regain his father’s approval, and live happily ever after. Little do they know that this is much easier said than done. Rand has lived by his wits after storming out during an argument ten years ago with his father, the Earl of Ashton. Rand is ready to go home, and marrying a respectable, well-dowered girl will go a long way toward smoothing the Earl’s ruffled sensibilities. So begins The Marriage Duel.
Jane has no intention of giving up her freedom, although she is instantly attracted to Rand. He asks for permission to court her, and Jane’s frustrated widowed father readily gives it; Jane retaliates by acting the simpleton. Rand knows that he has met a worthy adversary in Jane; she tries every trick she can think of to dissuade his interest. He then makes his first mistake as he underestimates her, with some very interesting consequences.

Maureen Mackey’s The Marriage Duel is a funny, poignant, and spirited romp showing both the amusing and heart-wrenching sides of the old English custom of marrying for position and wealth. Jane is a spoiled chit who has been overly indulged by her father; Rand is the man who will make a woman out of her. They must learn to respect and support each other as they meet with resistance at his family home. Practical and clueless Rand makes several missteps, never realizing that what Jane really wants from him is his love.
I really enjoyed this book; The Marriage Duel was a delightful and entertaining read!

Reviewed by: Michelle