Review for Kate Bateman's SECOND DUKE'S THE CHARM

 

SECOND DUKE’S THE CHARM
Historical Romance

 

 

 

AUTHOR:
Kate Bateman

RELEASE DATE:
December 26, 2023

PUBLISHER:
St. Martin’s Press

ISBN/ ASIN NUMBER :
9781250907363

RATING:
4.5

AUTHOR LINK:
https://www.kcbateman.com/

 

 

Tess Townsend finds herself widowed after her much older husband dies on their wedding night. And still a virgin. She starts an investigation firm with her two friends to help less fortunate women. After much deliberation, Tess agrees to a marriage of convenience with the new duke. However, her latest case – a request from the Queen – may cause trouble for Tess and Justin’s budding relationship. Will Justin interfere in Tess’s latest investigation? Can she catch the culprit without destroying her marriage?

Justin Thornton owns a successful trading company. Much to his disgruntlement, he learns that he inherited a dukedom. Justin is shocked to discover the Dowager Duchess is not some crone but a beautiful young lady. And she happens to be the mystery woman he encountered at his friend’s party. Justin proposes a solution that could benefit them both, a marriage of convenience. However, he knows his new wife is keeping secrets. Will Justin learn Tess’s secrets? And will they cost them their marriage?

I love the deep bond that Tess shares with Ellie and Daisy. The three women are willing to go to the extremes to help and protect the other. Ellie and Daisy also help Tess become are of the pros of her new windfall. What I admire the most about Tess is her decision to use her independence to help other women in need. She and her friends know what little rights or help women received in that era. They wanted to help others escape bad fates or situations.

I understand Justin’s cynicism towards love. He had witnessed his father’s deterioration after his mother’s passing. For a young child that would form a lasting impression. What I love the most about Justin is how he admired and approved of Tess’s business sense. He knew there was more to her than just looks. Justin even encouraged her to continue than holding her back.

SECOND DUKE’S THE CHARM is the first book in Kate Bateman’s brand-new historical romance series, HER MAJESTY’S REBELS. I decided to try out the author’s latest series since I adored her RUTHLESS RIVALS books. It did not disappoint me! I found myself quickly immersed in the storyline and characters. I cannot wait to see who Bateman will pair Ellie and Daisy, Tess’s two best friends, up with. I am kind of hoping Daisy will be paired up with Ellie’s cousin, who happens to be Justin’s friend, Edward Hussey. It feels like it would be a recipe for disaster or fun.