A Man Above Reproach by Evelyn Pryce Review

2013 Winner — Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award — Romance In 1830s London, scandalous whispers surround the pub known as the Sleeping Dove, a hidden bordello catering to nobles eager to shed the trappings of their stations. Josephine Grant knows the rumors are true—she plays piano at the Dove and is known only as the "Bawdy Bluestocking" to the pub's faithful. The reluctant Duke of Lennox is called "The Uncatchable" by society ladies, not that he cares for them or their nicknames. Elias Addison's estate was thrust upon him when his father died, and it has been little else but a burden. When a friend brings him to the Sleeping Dove in an attempt to lighten his mood, the Duke of Lennox finds himself at the Bawdy Bluestocking's piano, and together they begin to play a dangerous melody. Though Elias cannot resist courting her, she has a past to protect, a shaky future, and no time for frivolous nobility with soft hands. When the Duke uncovers the truth, will he wish he had never heard the tune?

My Review:
This is my favorite era for romance novels. The women were so delicate and they wore such pretty clothes. London in he 1830s is a great setting for romance. This book is not like the others I have read. Yes a lot have brothels, and I have read where women need to make money, but have honest jobs in the brothel. Bookkeeping, singing, etc. However this book was different because Josephine talks like a truck driver. She swears, and smokes. She is not your average refined lady. That is why I liked her. She spoke her mind and did what she had to do to keep her family business. There were some things that I did not like though. Why did she keep an employee if she was broke? How was she able to keep her identity from so many people when she worked in a store? The Duke, Elias, was a stubborn, heir to a dukedom that he did not want. He kept his feelings to himself and it cost him. When he finally opens his heart, he is hurt again. I did like when he used his money for a certain purchase that directly affected Josephine. In all this was a great regency romance with enough thrown in to make it stand out from the rest. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review from Night Owl Reviews, however all opinions are my own.