THE BLUESTOCKING DUCHESS is the first in Julia Justiss’ new Heirs in Waiting series. It features Miss Jocelyn Sudderfield, who works at Edge Hall assisting her brother and father in translating ancient texts, and Mr. Alex Cheverton, the estate manager of Edge Hall. The two have had an easy friendship for years that becomes complicated after Alex finds out he’s suddenly next in line for a dukedom.

My absolute favorite thing about this tale was watching the friendship between Jocelyn and Alex become something more. The friends-to-lovers trope is one of my favorites and I enjoyed the execution of it here. After 6 years of being friends, Alex and Jocelyn each begin to realize their attraction for the other. Alex has been unable to act on that attraction because of the duke’s condition that he keep his position ONLY if he remains unmarried for 10 years. I thought that was a great early obstacle to their relationship and a unique one among historical romances. It was a nice change. I loved their easy banter, even after a slightly awkward moment between them.

Jocelyn was also a treat, being the real brains behind the translations as well as a strong woman. Bluestocking heroines are among my favorites, and she was no exception. As for Alex, with all the rakish dukes floating around in the world of historical romance, it was so nice to read about an untitled hero that hasn’t slept with half of the women in England.

THE BLUESTOCKING DUCHESS was a quick and easy read with very likable characters. I look forward to the next in the series!

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