Manda Collins returns to the shelves with her latest historical romance offering, ” A Spinster’s Guide to Danger and Dukes”, which promises a delightful blend of intrigue and wit. Known for crafting effervescent narratives within the regency genre, Collins does not diverge from her path in this novel, making it especially appealing for enthusiasts of light-hearted romances and television delights similar to Bridgerton.

Set in England, 1867, the narrative pivots on Miss Poppy Delamare, who, under the guise of her alter ego, Flora Deaver, engages in a daring yet desperate mission to save her sister, embroiled in a murder accusation. The plot thickens with Poppy’s reluctant but necessary alliance with the Duke of Langham, Joshua Fielding, whom she initially loathes. Their faux engagement devised to leverage the Duke’s societal power morphs into a vortex of genuine emotions and mutual respect, steering the story into deeper waters of affection and commitment.

Far from being just another period romance, Collins instills a hearty dose of suspense and complexity with the unfolding murder mystery. The narrative is well-paced, with each chapter effectively tightening the noose of suspense while intertwining the evolving romance with finesse. However, while the blend of mystery and romance is a compelling aspect, certain plot advancements might feel slightly contrived, particularly in the latter half where coincidences conveniently align to resolve the tensions.

Character development, a critical stronghold of Collins’ writing, stands out with Poppy’s transformation from a fearful spinster to a daring, assertive woman being particularly noteworthy. Joshua, on the other hand, epitomizes the archetype of a misunderstood Duke with a heart of gold, bringing both charm and depth to their simulated engagement.

The dialogues sparkle with Collins’ trademark wit and the interaction between protagonists, with flirtatious bantering ascending to deeper confessional exchanges, underscores an authentic emotional buildup rather than reliance on period tropes alone. Nevertheless, some interactions might ring overly modern, slightly fracturing the historical authenticity that die-hard regency aficionados might expect.

“Spinster’s Guide to Danger and Dukes” largely succeeds in what it sets out to achieve: providing a whimsical yet thrilling escape into the gilded age of dukes and duchesses, crinoline, and covert affairs of the heart. It underscores Manda Collins’ dexterity in navigating the waters of romance and mystery, even if it occasionally sails too close to the wind of predictability.

In sum, for readers seeking a charming blend of romance with a dash of suspense set against a meticulously painted historical backdrop, Manda Collins offers just the right composition in “A Spinster’s Guide to Danger and Dukes”. It is a novel that entertains, intrigues, and ultimately, endears itself to its audience, proving once again why Collins remains a revered author in the genre.