Date published December 2008
ISBN 978-0-06-123506-1
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Susan
Abigail Shaw is a desperate woman. Her father may be on the verge of losing his business and she must do what she can to help him. Her idea is to uncover some scandal thus increasing the newspaper’s readership. She targets Christopher Cabot, the Duke of Madingley. With fate taking them in hand, Abigail and Christopher come to an understanding and a “pretend” romance ensues. Supposedly Christopher is hiding some deep, dark secret and Abigail must find out the truth.
Abigail comes across as a headstrong woman. She is driven to prove herself to her father and to be taken seriously by him. At times, the reader had to wonder how she could think that her idea was a good one thus making us wonder about her intelligence level. As the story progress, she still doesn’t seem to get it that her pursuit of the “scandal” will hurt everyone she loves and ultimately, she would be the most injured party. Christopher is a man who is also driven by his own desires. He does not want to be a target of “matchmaking” thus enters into an agreement with Abigail. Christopher doesn’t feel as well-developed as Abigail or perhaps, her personality and actions are such a powerful force that it takes center stage in the book. They make for an interesting couple as each have their own agendas and motivations for their actions. However they are not very likable characters and it was difficult to empathize or sympathize with them.
Having read almost all of Ms. Callen’s books, Never Dare a Duke was not one of her best. At times, the lead couple was not likable and it was difficult to understand why they would do the things they do. The storyline just wasn’t that interesting and it didn’t capture my interest.
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