Review: The Worst Duke in London (Taming of the Dukes #3) by Amalie Howard

*I received a copy of this book from Hachette Book Group Canada in exchange for an honest review.

The Worst Duke in London

(Taming of the Dukes #3)

by Amalie Howard 

September 24, 2024

Goodreads Summary:

Bridgerton meets 10 Things I Hate About You in this spicy enemies-to-lovers Regency romance.

Lady Evangeline Raine prefers animals to people and has no interest in marriage­--much to the dismay of her flirty younger sister, Viola. Because their father has one rule: Viola may be courted, only if Effie has a suitor as well.

Saddled with debt, Gage Croft, Duke of Vale, is determined to rebuild his estates. When the owner of his vowels offers him a fortune to charm the impervious Lady Evangeline for the season so Lady Viola can be courted, the game is on, even if it means pretending to seduce an unconventional wallflower.

But Gage gets much more than he bargains for in an adversary who wants to make her own scandalous arrangement. Effie will go to London for the season, but only if Gage agrees to be her lover. Yet when their fake courtship leads to passionate feelings, will their indecent proposal end with the season or be the start of something real?

Review

Though The Worst Duke in London wasn’t the most memorable tale, the hero and heroine stood out with their bold behaviour. The characters carried the story with their witty speech and daring moves.

If I had to describe Effie in The Worst Duke in London, I would say strong-minded and forward-thinking suit her the best. She was full of heart- her love for her friends and her advocacy for animals touched me. Despite her insecurities, Effie was not shy about voicing her needs. She was well-matched with Gage. Heated words and fiery sexy times were had ;)

Gage didn’t have the purest intentions when he first approached Effie but he was an honourable love interest. He had a soft side that was quite unexpected. “Sometimes, compassion took more courage than punishment.” (p. 326). I loved how respectful Gage was with Effie. He gave her space when she needed it.

As I have come to be acquainted with, the ladies and gentlemen of this series are the most supportive friends. They rib each other mercilessly but never fail to encourage either. Assistance was never far when needed. I’m so eager to read Briar and Lushing’s book!!

Each book in the Taming of the Dukes series brought me more fun and laughter than the previous. The Worst Duke in London is Amalie Howard’s finest yet. Her writing is full of guts and humour that’ll light up any historical romance reader’s world~

*I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and not affected in any way. Any quotes included in my review were taken from the copy I received.