ARC Review: A Duke by Any Other Name by Grace Burrowes

Recommended Read!

“…when I start Burrowes’ books I feel like she has created a window into another time…”
~ Under the Covers

Grace Burrowes books offer a particular kind of romance. There is less firework and explosive chemistry splattered all over the page and more of an ever increasing intensity and need, tempered by the mores of the times. You know as you read that despite the seeming clam, mature, and one could ever say sedate, outward presentation of the characters that there are powerful and passionate emotions roiling underneath.

I love this about Burrowes’ book, and it’s one of the things I loved about A Duke by Any Other Name as well. Because, although I don’t particularly read historical romances for their historical accuracy when I start Burrowes’ books I feel like she has created a window into another time; even if that window is a little clouded and rose tinted. The restraint of the characters is part of that authentic experience. The cadence and choice of language, especially in the dialogue, also gives the experience of being transported into that time.

But, onto the actual book and the characters, Nathaniel, Duke of Rothhaven and Lady Alethea Wentworth. Aletha is trying her hardest to fit into a world that does nothing but deride her and Nathaniel is doing his best to avoid that world so he can protect and keep his family safe. Although their problems are on opposite ends of the spectrum, the results are the same: society has effectively trapped trapped them.

The romance, as I have spoken about already, was a slow burn. You could see both character rouse out of the respective nightmares when they meet and through their initially challenging interactions. Although, this isn’t really an enemies to lovers story, but they definitely start their relationship on an antagonistic note.

Aside form the romance, which I really enjoyed, what had me glued to the book was seeing some of the family drama. We have Nathaniel’s difficult relationship with his brother. Then we have the Wentworths who all come together in a well meaning, if not totally effective way – to try and help Alethea. It captured the interfering, frustrating, loving nature of family really well and added an extra dimension to the book.

Another great read in this series and I am really looking forward to the next book. And, don’t forget to check the Authors Note at the end of this one, it was fascinating!

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[about-author author=”Grace Burrowes”]

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