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Duke of Pleasure

Book 12 in the series:Maiden Lane

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Who Would Like This Book:

Packed with adventure, mystery, and sizzling romance, Duke of Pleasure delivers everything fans of historical romance crave. Alf, a fiercely independent heroine who’s spent her life disguised as a street urchin, finally gets her own courageous love story with the honorable Duke of Kyle. Their chemistry, tender parenting moments, and wild rooftop escapades are a genuine delight. Lovers of unlikely pairings, secret identities, and strong, capable women will absolutely love this book - especially if you crave a dash of danger paired with your romance.

Who May Not Like This Book:

If you prefer your historical romances strictly aristocratic or dislike characters with rough edges, this might not be your cup of tea. Some readers found the romance a bit rushed or wanted more buildup between Alf and Hugh. The story dives into darker themes surrounding crime and abuse in Georgian London, which may be unsettling for sensitive readers. Plus, fans wanting a slow burn or elaborate villainy may feel the suspense element is a bit light.

A wildly enjoyable, high-energy romance with heart and grit. Duke of Pleasure is a standout in the Maiden Lane series, perfect for readers who love daring heroines, compassionate heroes, and a story that keeps you turning the pages.

About:

'Duke of Pleasure' in the 'Maiden Lane' series by Elizabeth Hoyt follows the story of Hugh Fitzroy, the Duke of Kyle, who is tasked with investigating the secret society known as the Lords of Chaos. During his mission, he is rescued by the Ghost of St. Giles, a masked vigilante who turns out to be a woman named Alf. As they work together to uncover the secrets of the Lords of Chaos, a romantic tension builds between Hugh and Alf, leading to a dangerous and thrilling adventure filled with mystery and intrigue. The writing style of Elizabeth Hoyt captivates readers with its engaging storytelling, steamy romance, and well-developed characters, making it a compelling read for fans of historical romance.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed, highlighting strength, vulnerability, and complex personalities, with a focus on their evolving relationships.

Writing/Prose:

The author's style blends lyrical storytelling with humor, creating a captivating environment that balances romance and action.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative centers around the unlikely romance between a duke and a street child disguised as a boy, intertwined with action and mystery involving a secret society.

Setting:

The story's setting in a gritty historical context enriches the narrative, addressing class struggles and the realities of life in London.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally steady, allowing for character exploration, though some found the romantic elements could have benefited from more depth.
It was half past midnight as he eyed the toughs slinking out of the shadows up ahead in the cold alley near Covent Garden. He moved the bottle of fine Viennese wine from his right arm to his left and ...

Notes:

The main character, Hugh Fitzroy, is the illegitimate son of the King of England and serves as a spy for the Crown.
Alf, the female protagonist, has been disguising herself as a boy to survive in the slums of St Giles since she was five years old.
Alf is also known as the Ghost of St Giles, a vigilante who protects the poor from criminals in her neighborhood.
The romance between Hugh and Alf is described as sweet and heartfelt, with elements of mystery and action.
Hugh is a widower with two young sons, struggling to connect with them after his wife's death.
Alf's journey involves grappling with her femininity after living as a boy for so long, and she ultimately learns to embrace her identity as a woman.
The story involves a secret society called the Lords of Chaos that Hugh is tasked with taking down, showcasing themes of justice and protection.
Hugh treats Alf as his equal, acknowledging her skills and bravery, which deepens their relationship.
The novel features a mixture of humor, adventure, and romance set against the backdrop of Georgian London.
Duke of Pleasure is praised for its character development, particularly for Alf, who grows from a street urchin into a strong, capable woman.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Potential triggers include themes of child neglect, infidelity, violence, and class-based discrimination, reflecting the dark reality of St Giles.

Has Romance?

The romance between Alf and Hugh is a central focus of the story, marked by deep emotional connections and attraction.

From The Publisher:

IN THE ARMS OF DANGER

Bold. Brave. Brutally handsome. Hugh Fitzroy, the Duke of Kyle, is the king's secret weapon. Sent to defeat the notorious Lords of Chaos, he is ambushed in a London alley-and rescued by an unlikely ally: a masked stranger with the unmistakable curves of a woman.

IN THE HEAT OF DESIRE

Cocky. Clever. Courageously independent. Alf has survived on the perilous streets of St. Giles by disguising her sex. By day she is a boy, dealing in information and secrets. By night she's the notorious Ghost of St. Giles, a masked vigilante. But as she saves Hugh from assassins, she finds herself succumbing to temptation . . .

ONE KISS WILL CHANGE THEIR LIVES FOREVER

When Hugh hires Alf to investigate the Lords of Chaos, her worlds collide. Once Hugh realizes that the boy and the Ghost are the same, will Alf find the courage to become the woman she needs to be-before the Lords of Chaos destroy them both?

2016
364 pages

Ratings (4)

Incredible (1)
Liked It (2)
It Was OK (1)

Reader Stats (15):

Read It (5)
Want To Read (6)
Not Interested (4)
 
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