Review: Addicted to the Duke by Bronwen Evans

Print Length: 

Publisher: Loveswept (June 13, 2017)

From Goodreads.com: Alexander Sylvester Bracken, Duke of Bedford, has a mission: sail to the Mediterranean and track down Lady Hestia Cary’s missing father. It is a straightforward task, but for two rather vexing complications. First, the sea holds painful memories; second, for her own safety, Hestia is to accompany him. As Alex battles the demons of his past, he must also resist Hestia’s surprisingly skillful attempts at seduction. After all, Alex has sworn to leave her untouched, and he intends to honor that vow—until he can properly ask the Earl’s blessing.

Ever since His Grace rescued Hestia from the arms of a Turkish pirate six long years ago, her heart has belonged to Alex. So when he agrees to help find her father, Hestia is thrilled. Although Alex tries to hide it, there’s passion in his eyes—and a frisson of desire in the air—whenever they meet. On board ship, miles from home, Alex won’t be able to deny her any longer. But with scoundrels lying in wait, she may not live to tell the tale of her conquest.

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My Rating: 4 stars out of 5

I have read quite a few other books by this author and loved every one of them, so to me this book was a bit of a let down in comparison. Don't get me wrong the author's strong writing is still there, however this story is just more repetitive than her others. Yes, I understand Alex feels he is damaged and unworthy of Hestia's love. Yes, I completely understand the reasons why. I do not need them mentioned time and again.

Other than that, I enjoyed this story. Opium addiction is not something that is commonly talked about in romance novels to the extent it was here, therefore it was interesting seeing how this author managed to take such a heavy topic and weave it into the story so that the core of the romance remained. I also enjoyed the palpable desire that could be felt between Hestia and Alex - especially when they refused to act upon it. It all cumulated into red hot passion when finally unleashed.

I do think this story will still appeal to a lot of romance fans, especially ones that enjoy a more forward female character, or those that enjoy a damaged male lead, and I will definitely read more from this author! 

DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of this novel in exchange for my honest review. This has not affected my review in any way. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are 100% my own.

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                          Addicted to the Duke is available from Amazon.com