Erotic: Low
Romance: Average
Historical: Average
Adventure: Low
Sap Factor: High
Time Period: England 1815
This book couldn't figure out what category to place itself in. The first ninety percent of the book was a character study, followed by the last part actually containing the plot. There were a few attempted erotic scenes thrown in for good measure, but really the author seemed to gloss over them as though they didn't really belong. But by the end the characters thoughts suggested the book should have been much more tawdry. It just wasn't the case. Either it's erotic or it isn't, but don't play both sides of the fence.
In addition, the hero- the undeniable rogue- was anything but a rogue. He spent the majority of the book trying to live down his reputation, but every possible action proved the moniker incorrect, making the title truly distracting. I get that "rogue" is a good buzz word in romance novels, but if your character isn't a rogue, don't call him one.
Lastly, the romance took place between a 9 month pregnant woman and our duke. While pregnancy may be beautiful and romantic, attempting to bring the erotic in, well- I cringed often. The duke suckling breast milk from her? Maybe it appeals to some. As a character study this would have worked. Not attempting to broach erotic.
Honestly, this book was just plain boring. I don't hold romance novels to a high standard, but this book left me wanting, and not in a good way. The motivations were lacking. The plot thinned. And the joy of falling in love was lost. Undeniably bad.
Love it or leave it? Leave it.
Buy the book!
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Next Up: Lord of Vengeance by Lara Adrian
