I received this book for free from Avon in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Scottish Duke by Karen RanneyAlso in this series: The English Duke, The Texan Duke
Series: Duke Trilogy #1
Published by Avon on November 29th 2016
Genres: Historical Romance, Regency Era
Pages: 384
Format: eARC
Source: Avon
ISBN: 0062466887
New York Times bestselling author Karen Ranney returns with the first novel in a new series about dashing, charismatic dukes—and the women who tame them…
Though raised as a gentleman’s daughter, Lorna Gordon is obliged to take a position as an upstairs maid at Blackhall Castle when her father dies. Alex Russell, the Duke of Kinross, is the most tempting man she’s ever seen—and completely unattainable—until, at a fancy dress ball, Lorna disguises herself as Marie Antoinette and pursues an illicit tryst…with scandalous consequences.
Months after his mysterious seductress disappears, Alex encounters her again. Far from the schemer the distrustful duke assumed her to be, Lorna is fiercely independent and resourceful. She’s the one woman capable of piercing his defenses. But when danger threatens Lorna, Alex must prove himself not just the lover of her fantasies, but the man who will fight to protect her.
I just flew through this beautiful book pretty quickly, and quite frankly way faster than I thought I could even read…yep that is how much I truly enjoyed this book. I really have no idea why I waited so long to read this one, but I am so glad that I decided to grab this one up from the library because it was definitely worth it. Our wonderful story begins with our heroine who is a maid in a Duke’s home. Lorna isn’t your typical maid though. She was a gentleman’s daughter, but when her father died, she had to become a maid. And when a masqued ball occurs, she decides to dress up as a mysterious lady of the Ton, to catch the attention of the Duke. Lorna is drawn to him, just like every female is. But on this mysterious night she catches his attention and curiousity, and they share a night of lovemaking and passion. Alex, the Duke of Kinross, doesn’t recognize Lorna as his mysterious lady. Now time has passed over six month, and Lorna is heavily pregnant with Alex’s child. And when Alex and his mother learn of this development, Alex seeks out Lorna to see that she and his child are taken care of.
I honestly didn’t see the accidental pregancy angle happening from the beginning, but I honestly felt like it just fit for this story. I did like that Lorna wanted to attempt to take care of the situation on her own, yet at the same time I felt she needed to be honest with Alex. He deserved to know that he was going to be a father. Especially when she is barely making enough to get by, let alone raise a child. Both Alex and Lorna are very stubborn in many ways so their relationship is a bit rocky while they work through kinks. But it was fun seeing them work through these rocky slopes and find the smooth ride down…eventually. Now I will say that Alex’s mother was enchanting, I adored every bit of her character, but most especially in the wonderful way she is so accepting of Lorna.
What also added a bit more edge to the story, was the mysterious danger element. But I will say this portion of the story was slightly predictable but still added some dynamics to the story. The writing however, was superb. The author just pulled me so quickly into this book and I didn’t put it down until I read it. When I can read a book in one sitting, it should tell you how much I truly enjoyed picking up this book. There is something that this author does more for a romance than others do, and she keeps this genre alive for me. This story was sexy, emotional, dramatic and romantic. A ENDEARING PAGE TURNER
Sounds really good. I haven’t read her in a while. I might have pull one of her books off the shelf.
You definitely should, she is pretty wonderful to read.
I’m not a fan of these covers so I didn’t even give these books a look, but I obviously need to change that. Accidental pregnancies don’t always work for me, but it sounds like it’s handled well here. That’s so awesome you were able to read it so swiftly. It sure does sound enjoyable! 🙂
haha you know that is the reason I didn’t pick this one up years ago? The cover just threw me off, especially since she normally has great covers. But the book was fantastic.
Ha. I love those books that you just can’t put down! I’m so glad you loved this. I don’t know if it’s one I would enjoy, but I’m so happy you liked it.
They are the best….and they don’t happen enough.
Sounds like I need it since you loved it so much!
Sounds like a great read! I like the sounds of the mysterious element. Will have to keep this series in mind! Lovely review!
I enjoyed this one, too! I got a little frustrated a few times with the characters but it was a really intense, kind of a sweeping romance. Karen is a solid author anyway so I knew she’d make it all work out for our H/h. 🙂