One Season with the Duke

by Addy Du Lac

Review

I have such a love–hate relationship with stories where the conflict isn’t exactly miscommunication, but more about one person hiding the truth because they’re terrified they won’t be loved if they’re honest. I get it—that’s basically the backbone of so many romance plotlines. Characters have to face their insecurities, learn to trust, and actually communicate. I eat it up every time… and also scream internally while reading it. Maybe I hate it a little because it hits a little too close to home. Secrets and lies really do make the world go round, no matter how much we wish they didn’t.

That said, this book was genuinely really well written. I connected with the characters almost immediately and found myself fully invested in their journey. I especially loved that the heroine wasn’t some soft, fragile debutant—when things got serious, she stepped up and did what she had to do to protect herself and her family, and I was absolutely here for that. My only real complaint in the entire book is the repeated use of the word “nubbin.” I can’t explain it, but it makes me cringe every single time. Aside from that tiny hang-up, the story was fun, engaging, and incredibly solid. I’m very excited to read more from this author—and even more excited to meet her at an upcoming event.