{Review} A Lady For A Duke by Alexis Hall

Page count: 480

Publisher: Forever

Published on: May 24, 2022

Genres: Historical romance

Format: paperback - personally purchased

CW: violence (historical and such), attempted kidnapping, misogyny, transphobia, biphobia, lesbophobia, PTSD flashbacks, conversations pertaining to PTSD, ableism, and dead-naming

Rep: lesbian rep, trans rep, gay rep, questioning rep

✨ RATING: 3 stars

Goodreads synopsis:

A lush, sweeping queer historical romance from the bestselling author of Boyfriend Material—perfect for fans of Netflix’s Bridgerton, Evie Dunmore, and Manda Collins!

When Viola Caroll was presumed dead at Waterloo she took the opportunity to live, at last, as herself. But freedom does not come without a price, and Viola paid for hers with the loss of her wealth, her title, and her closest companion, Justin de Vere, the Duke of Gracewood.

Only when their families reconnect, years after the war, does Viola learn how deep that loss truly was. Shattered without her, Gracewood has retreated so far into grief that Viola barely recognises her old friend in the lonely, brooding man he has become.

As Viola strives to bring Gracewood back to himself, fresh desires give new names to old feelings. Feelings that would have been impossible once and may be impossible still, but which Viola cannot deny. Even if they cost her everything, all over again.

~ ~ ~ ~

Hey, all!

Welcome back to another review! It's been a minute. Sorry!

I had the pleasure of reading this with my book club. We had a lovely conversation about it. If you're interested in joining, email me or DM me on Instagram!

For me, this book was just okay. I'm actually quite disappointed because the last two Alexis Hall books that I've read have just not scratched the itch for me. Perhaps it's because I wasn't in the mood for historical fiction. Perhaps it was the list of reasons I'll flesh out...now:

I really felt like my main issue was the pacing. It wasn't until I hit the 100ish page mark that I was fully invested. I started this book fully prepared to enjoy and read it lickedy split. However, it was just slow and the characters barely grabbed me. There was so much happening, but I really think that it could have been 100-150 pages shorter. It was really random when the pacing would lag. There wasn't a reason for it other than unnecessary additions to the story.

However, once the romance was established, I was absolutely SWOONING! It was too cute. Gracewood and Viola were so lovely. Gracewood said the most beautiful things and Viola was so articulate in her feelings. Once they got over the communication hump, it was so nice. I love them so much.

I do genuinely think that this is worth reading. I think my issues with the pacing are valid, but I know that so many others adore a more drawn out love story.

Combined with the swoon worthy moments, the representation, and the delightful writing style. I think this is worth a read.

Happy reading!

Olivia
Liv the Book Nerd
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