Castles Ever After #1
Romancing the Duke is another unique Tessa Dare Regency romance. Although the book follows all the usual conventions and tropes, the story is so well-developed and unique that it’s not just another iteration of the same old story.
Izzy definitely has modern sensibilities and is not easily scared off. Still, I found it jarring that she was willing to challenge Ransom with no hesitations or concerns about her reputation. The way Ransom tried to chase her off was a tightrope between intimidation and abuse. Thankfully, it always stayed on just the right side of the line. I wish the back story on his scar was presented less frivolously. I found Ransom unappealing for 80% of Romancing the Duke and had difficulty rooting for him. I did change my perspective at the end, but he’s pretty two-dimensional until the last third or so of the book.
Izzy’s father is a famous author. The interlude with his fans was adorable and hilarious. I appreciated that Ransom grew where they were concerned. Ransom sees all sides of Izzy, not just the side she’s famous for.
The Tessa Dare series I’ve read before are light, airy, and implausible. I think of her characters as shiny, happy people, even if they do have a sad back story, trauma, or seemingly insurmountable problems. Romancing the Duke is a little heavier, but only by a hair or two. I did enjoy it, though it’s probably not going to stand out in memory after a few weeks. Romancing the Duke is precisely as it should be for light, feel-good romance.
Characters
Isolde Ophelia Goodnight – Daughter of a famous author who based his stories around her, Izzy has had to play the role of a fictional character her entire life. While her fathers character got to experience love and adventure, it doesn’t look like it’s going to be in the cards for her.
Ransom Vane, Duke of Rothbury – Reclusive, grumpy and blind, Ransom is still traumatized after the injury that disfigured him. He does not want company in his castle.
Publication Information
Publisher: Avon
First Published: January 28 2014
Format: e-book
Source: Library
Genre: Romance
Sub Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance
Series: Castles Ever After
Tropes: Beauty and the Beast, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, grumpy sunshine, fairy tale re-telling
Locations: Northumberland, England
Links
thestorygraph
Tessa Dare’s Website
Tessa Dare reviews on sloreads.ca