The Duke I Once Knew by Olivia Drake: Review

* copy received for review consideration

I grew up reading romances. From the time I was a young teen I buried myself in romance stories. Many of them were historical romances so from time to time, I find myself reaching for a story in this genre. I love the fact that they have advanced into a bit more steamy areas and make for a delightful read, just like this new book I was able to review.

Due to release in a few weeks, here is a sweet story of a second chance romance that you need to check out.

The Duke I Once Knew by Olivia Drake
Series: Unlikely Duchesses (Book 1)
Publisher: St. Martin’s Paperbacks (December 31, 2018)
ISBN-13: 978-1250174376

ABOUT:
For years, Abigail Linton devoted herself to caring for her parents and her siblings’ children. Now, eager to create a life of her own, Abby seizes upon a position as a governess on a neighboring estate. Unfortunately, her absentee employer is Maxwell Bryce, the Duke of Rothwell, the notorious rake who once broke her youthful heart. But since he hasn’t set foot on his estate for fifteen years, Abby assumes she’ll never have to lay eyes on him ever again.

Then, from out of nowhere, Max appears. He is stunned to come face to face with the girl next door he fell for years ago―before he went away, and she stopped writing to him. . .even though Abby swears that he is the one who left her without a word. Could it be that this spirited, witty spinster has won Max’s heart all over again―and that they may have a second chance at love?

The Duke I Once Knew by Olivia Drake

This is one book that I had a love/hate relationship with. I loved the theme. Older women in the Regency era definitely were frowned upon when it came time to try and marry. Plus, I love the second chance romance portion too. So sweet!

But I had issues with some of the personality characteristics the author chose to give Abby. Just some of the things that came out of her mouth didn’t sit right. She was bitter that Max was able to live his life in London and have plenty of women friends. Even after the mystery of the letters was solved, she held the fact that he was free to see whomever he wanted against him. She got quite snarky a time or two.

Plus her family was something else. Treating her like an employee instead of a family member. Not cool. So yay that she finally stood up to them all!

I did really enjoy Max’s character. He never forgot her and was curious why she was still un-married and why she was even working. You could definitely tell that he still had feelings for her even though she was kind of rude to him off and on. Max definitely made the story come to life and made it a pleasure to read.

This is the first time I have read a book by Olivia Drake. I enjoyed the story in many ways. Traditional Regency style romance with a female character that did have some great redeeming qualities and a hottie, Max, who understood her better than anyone. Sweet and a great change of pace!

Looking forward to reading more from this author.

* copy received for review consideration.