This is far from your typical love story or Regency romance. The hero and heroine first cross paths in the most painful and harrowing circumstances—he has been declared mad, and she is appointed to be his companion.
Lady for a Season by Melissa Addey
Genres: Historical Romance

A young duke declared mad. His nurse masquerading as a lady.
One social season in which to marry him off.
What could possibly go wrong?

When foundling Maggie takes a job caring for Edward, she knows him only as a young man declared mad and kept privately under the care of a physician to avoid any scandal for his family.

But Edward is the heir to the Duke of Buckingham and when his father dies his family determine to marry him off to secure the title and the estate. Edward insists that Maggie stay by his side, so she must be passed off as a lady for one social season, during which time a marriage can be arranged.

When a midnight carriage comes for Maggie, is she ready for the makeover of a lifetime? Can she remember all the rules, keep the secrets of Atherton Park… and above all, avoid falling in love?

A delightful Regency romance, full of historical detail and emotional choices, as two downtrodden characters come to know their true worth and what they mean to each other. The Season has begun, the ton is gathered… and the clock is ticking for Maggie and Edward.

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I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Initially, Edward is treated as a lunatic suffering from an illness that must be cured. Dr. Morrison, whom I really disliked, views him as a man without wit or intelligence. The doctor’s brutal torture or treatment as he calls it, has broken Edward’s spirit, convincing him of his supposed insanity. It’s only when Maggie becomes his companion that Edward begins to feel a flicker of hope. While she can’t stop the doctor, Maggie offers him unwavering support, giving him the courage he desperately lacked.

Unlike Dr. Morrison, Maggie sees through the facade and recognizes that Edward is not as mad as he’s made out to be. She empathizes with his suffering and is determined to make his life as bearable as possible. Though employed as his companion, she quickly grows to regard him as a dear friend, someone she feels protective of. Addey’s portrayal of Edward’s harrowing treatment sheds light on the horrific way mental illness was handled during this era, and the ease with which people were committed. Some scenes are deeply distressing, so readers should be prepared for emotional moments.

Maggie is one of the most likable characters. She is full of kindness and compassion that brings stability to Edward’s life. As they grow closer, Maggie realizes that her need for Edward is just as strong as his need for her. She’s willing to whatever it takes, even pretending to be a lady during the London Season, to stay by his side. Meanwhile, Edward, is kind-hearted, and I felt as much sympathy and affection for him as Maggie did.

This is simply one of the most well down books I have read this year and if I could give it more than five stars I would. It gave me all the feels while being engaging and well written.