Series: Bluestocking Booksellers #1
Publication Date: 20th August 2024
Genre: Historical Romance (Regency)
3.7 Stars
One Liner: An easy read
Caroline Danvers writes erotic novels under a pen name. She knows she can’t afford to let this secret come out. Dorian Whitaker, Duke of Holland, needs to remarry for an heir after the death of his wife five years ago.
Their paths cross more than once but neither can want to get close to the other for obvious reasons. Caroline can’t risk the future of the bookshop or her career. Dorian cannot marry a commoner. But when did love bother with such trivialities?
The story comes in the third-person POVs of Caroline and Dorian.
My Thoughts:
Firstly, this is a contemporary Regency Romance; meaning it has only a few aspects of the period and the content has a modern flair. If you want something that strictly fits the early 19th century, this book is not for you. If you want a spicy romance with some old-style class conflict and balls, grab this one.
Caro and Dorian are well-etched. The FMC has a spine and can take a stand. I love how she handled an important scene towards the end. Assured and confident but also heartbroken.
Dorian starts as a regular Duke (handsome, bored expression, hidden side, blah blah). However, he grows as the story progresses. I loved reading about his vulnerable side and his determination to learn from his mistakes and become a better person.
Given the FMC’s secret identity, the book is easily 3+ on the spice scale. It’s fun though. There are bits of humor sprinkled here, there, and everywhere.
Since this is the first book in the series, we are introduced to two other booksellers early on. Connie and Hattie are the FMC’s cousins, different in temperaments but equally loving and loyal. The trio of cousins makes a formidable team.
There’s a bit of mystery and a couple of nasty characters. While I like the take on physical appearances, I which subplot was a bit stronger. It doesn’t really satisfy the reader (though you should read this as a romance).
Though there is a third-act breakup, it is handled in style. I loved one of the FMC’s dialogues. No miscommunication, though. In fact, they ask each to speak about what’s on their mind (let me in the pause) which I appreciate. A mature act.
I like the epilogue but would have enjoyed an extended version of it. A couple of things are told and I want to know about the how and when.
There are enough clues to guess who would pair up in the next book, and I know I will read it. That girl made me laugh and worry a few times, so I’m in!
To summarize, Good Duke Gone Wild is an enjoyable read as long as you are not too particular about the historical aspects. I’m used to modern elements in these books so I had a good time with the book.
Thank you, NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing), for eARC.
#NetGalley #GoodDukeGoneWild
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