Books › The dreadful debutante

The dreadful debutante
First published 1994 · 199 pages
A sparkling, fast-paced Regency romp driven by witty banter and a delightfully reluctant heroine.
What it feels like
Reading this book feels like stepping into a brightly lit ballroom where the champagne is flowing and the gossip is deliciously sharp. It is a breezy, fast-paced Regency romp that thrives on witty banter and the delightful friction of a heroine who refuses to play by the rules of the marriage mart. The prose is snappy and unpretentious, keeping the pages turning with a lighthearted, almost farcical energy that never takes itself too seriously. Beneath the sparkling social comedy lies a cozy, comforting emotional arc about outgrowing childhood crushes and discovering unexpected love. It is the perfect afternoon escape for readers who adore traditional, low-angst historical romance filled with spirited heroines, exasperated lords, and a thoroughly cheerful atmosphere.
- Mood
- breezy
- sparkling
- cheerful
- cozy
- Tone
- wry
- lighthearted
- playful
- humorous
- Pace
- brisk
- Themes
- defying social convention · sisterly dynamics · the marriage mart · unexpected romance · outgrowing childhood crushes
- The writing
- Snappy, unpretentious, and heavily driven by sharp dialogue and a keen eye for social absurdity.
- The arc
- The protagonist moves from rebellious frustration and misplaced childhood affection to the delightful surprise of a mature, passionate match.
- Who it's for
- Readers who crave traditional, low-angst Regency romances featuring spirited heroines, witty banter, and a touch of farce.
Content notes
- mild period-typical sexism
About the book
Mira and her beautiful sister Drusilla are to have their come-out in London. Mira is dreading the boring conventions and losing the freedom she has at home. Yet she does hope to meet up again with her childhood friend Charles. Unfortunately though Charles ultimately seems to prefer her sister. However a handsome marquess finds himself increasingly entangled with Mira, to the point where he may have to marry her himself.
Description from Open Library.
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