ARC Review: Dukes, Actually by Erica Ridley

Posted November 16, 2019 by Alana in Book Reviews, Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Romance / 0 Comments

Dukes, Actually by Erica Ridley
Series: 12 Dukes of Christmas #5
Published by WebMotion on October 22, 2019
Genres: Fiction, Romance, Historical, Regency, Holidays, Holiday
Pages: 200
Format: eBook
Source: ARC

A heartwarming romp between a socially awkward duke and the social butterfly who pines for him, from a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author:

The Duke of Azureford isn’t the arrogant, aloof lord his peers perceive him to be. Yes, he’s awkward, but he has a plan to fix it. In order to woo a respectable lady, he must learn how to flirt. The completely inappropriate girl next door would make a perfect instructor, but a terrible duchess. So why can’t he walk away?

Incorrigible hoyden Miss Carole Quincy likes billiards, FIX, and the beautiful, buttoned-up Duke of Azureford. She’d be delighted to help him out of his shell and into her arms. Who cares if they’re just pretending to flirt? The heady, breath-taking, soul-consuming feeling inside her runaway heart surely can’t be love…

The 12 Dukes of Christmas is a series of heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!

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This was an adorable return to the little village where it is Christmas year round!

I didn’t feel like Carole was all that much of an incorrigible hoyden, but I suppose I am judging by more modern standards. There was more billiard instructing than how to woo a lady than I expected, though honestly, Azureford didn’t need the help anyway. I was definitely ready to swoon for him. Watching Carole and Azureford work side by side was immensely satisfying as well. For the most part, both characters were well-developed which is a feat given the short length of the book. 

I think if the book was just a chapter or two longer and addressed his admiration from afar more then this would be a five-star from me.

Ultimately though, I laughed out loud plenty and I absolutely loved the little side romance between the butler and lady’s maid. They were adorable! I also enjoy the little easter eggs that Ridley slips in to reference the first few books in the series. Dukes, Actually is the perfect light, romantic read to get you ready for the holiday season.

**I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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About Erica Ridley

Erica Ridley is a New York Times and USA Today best-selling author of historical romance novels.

In the new 12 Dukes of Christmas series, enjoy witty, heartwarming Regency romps nestled in a picturesque snow-covered village. After all, nothing heats up a winter night quite like finding oneself in the arms of a duke!

Her two most popular series, the Dukes of War and Rogues to Riches, feature roguish peers and dashing war heroes who find love amongst the splendor and madness of Regency England.

When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found riding camels in Africa, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.

Anonymously, Alana