The Unexpected Duchess By Valerie Bowman May 2026

The story highlights a core friendship between three distinct women: the scholarly intellectual, the delicate beauty, and the witty Lucy.

Lady Lucy Upton is a "vivacious" and opinionated heroine with a unique appearance—mismatched blue and hazel eyes and unruly curly hair. The Unexpected Duchess by Valerie Bowman

by Valerie Bowman is the witty and romantic debut of the Playful Brides series , set in Regency England. Inspired by Edmond Rostand’s classic play Cyrano de Bergerac , the novel subverts traditional romance tropes with a spirited "battle of wits". Plot Overview The story highlights a core friendship between three

Derek is a war hero who only wants peace and quiet; he believes the demure Cassandra is the perfect bride to fulfill a deathbed promise made to a fallen comrade. Key Features & Themes Inspired by Edmond Rostand’s classic play Cyrano de

True to the series' name, the book features humorous disasters, outrageous schemes, and lighthearted banter while staying grounded in the emotional growth of its characters. Author Information Review: The Unexpected Duchess by Valerie Bowman