To Marry the Duke: an American heiress, a English duke and a romance that changes everything

To Marry the Duke is the first book in the American Heiress trilogy by Julianne MacLean. American heiress Sophia Wilson leaves her home in New York for the London Season. Her goal: to marry an aristocratic husband. While her father is willing to pay generously, Sophia hopes to marry for love. For the dark, handsome Duke of Wentworth, James Langdon, love is the last thing he is concerned about. With the family’s dark past, he pushes aside all thoughts of marriage and heirs. However, his castle falling into disrepair, he needs cash fast. A marriage with the beautiful Sophia seems to be the perfect solution. What he doesn’t account for is how enchanted he becomes with his new wife. When a figure from the past threatens to undo it all, James and Sophia must decide between the marriage they thought they wanted and the passion that burns within them. 

Described as “perfect for fans of Bridgerton and Downton Abbey,” this story is set in the Gilded Age and the political and business dealings of marriage. To Marry the Duke is a different genre than I have read from Ms MacLean before; however, as a fan of Downton Abbey, I was eager to read it. The story was interesting and attention getting. I loved Sophia as a young woman who knew what she wanted even if it meant shaking up the Langdon family. I also enjoyed James as a man bound by duty as well as a desire to stop the family circle. There are individuals to hate, to pity and to cheer for. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy. If you enjoy historical fiction with romance and drama, I highly recommend To Marry the Duke. 

To Marry the Duke is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook