Lady Like: A Novel

· Sold by Dial Press
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384
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About this ebook

A BOOKPAGE BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR • Two women set their sights on marrying the same duke, but instead of becoming enemies, they find themselves falling in love—though not with him.

“My new favorite romance author.”—Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series

“A genuinely, strikingly funny romantic romp. I inhaled it!”—Emily Henry, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Great Big Beautiful Life


Harriet Lockhart never planned to marry. She has spent her life defying expectations, playing male roles on London’s seediest stages, and doing whatever she pleases. When Harry is contacted by her hitherto anonymous father, she finds herself at risk of losing the trust fund that’s subsidized her lifestyle—unless she begins to lead a more respectable life, starting with finding a husband.

Emily Sergeant, the picture of modesty, has only ever wanted to marry. And were it not for one mistake in her youth that rendered her a social pariah, she would be appropriately betrothed. Instead, she’s due to wed the only willing—and most abominable—man in her small town. Desperate for an alternative, Emily flees to London to snag a less lecherous fiancé.

Worlds collide, dramatically and hilariously, when both women decide on the very same duke as their best possible chance at a tolerable husband and a secure future. A tongue-in-cheek romp through London’s summer season, from balls to brothels, horseraces to duels, Harry and Emily compete for the duke’s favor, only to find their true hearts’ desires may be more compatible than they could have ever predicted.
A BOOKPAGE BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR • Two women set their sights on marrying the same duke, but instead of becoming enemies, they find themselves falling in love—though not with him. “My new favorite romance author.”—Julia Quinn, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Bridgerton series “A gen...

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Ratings and reviews

2 reviews
Moon Fox
September 9, 2025
I thought the storyline idea behind this book was quite cute and very clever. While overall I would say that I enjoyed this read I would also sadly admit that it fell a bit short with me. I will say that I liked Harry and Emily and felt invested in them and their happiness. They share some nice banter and a few good moments. Unfortunately, I felt there was a lack of depth here that I not only wanted but needed to really lose myself in these characters and their romance.
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Andrea Romance
September 10, 2025
Two women with vastly different goals—one a rebellious actress, the other a desperate spinster—both set their sights on the same duke as a means to a better life. Their hilarious competition for his affections leads to unexpected romance. This book is funny, a bit of a romp, but it also has its serious moments. The stakes are high throughout, and the story was fast-paced. The characters are wonderful. Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
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About the author

Mackenzi Lee is the New York Times bestselling author of ten books, including The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, a Stonewall Honor book, New England Book Award winner, and NPR and Vulture best book of the year. Her short fiction and nonfiction have appeared in The Boston Globe, Atlas Obscura, Teen Vogue, and Bust Magazine, among others, and she holds a BA in history and an MFA in creative writing from Simmons College. Lady Like is her adult debut.
Mackenzi Lee is the New York Times bestselling author of ten books, including The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue, a Stonewall Honor book, New England Book Award winner, and NPR and Vulture best book of the year. Her short fiction and nonfiction have appeared in The Boston Globe, Atlas Obscu...

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