Tuesday, August 28, 2012

ONE NIGHT IN LONDON by Caroline Linden

The Truth About the Dukes Series, Book 1
Publisher: Avon Books
Date published: August 30, 2011
ISBN 9780062025326
Historical Romance
Mass Market Paperback
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained via Publisher


When Edward de Lacey’s father dies, he leaves behind three sons who are confused and angry for the duke discloses a terrible secret that will cause them havoc and even worse, the loss of their birthright. Edward was always the responsible one so he hires the best solicitor in town. Too bad Francesca Gordon also needs the solicitor as well. When these two meet, sparks fly and when Edward helps Francesca out, he is taken by the fearless woman.

Francesca is determined to get custody of her niece from her niece’s step-mother and isn’t afraid to get into Edward’s face about stealing away her lawyer. Edward helps her to locate her niece and their friendship blossoms into passion. Can Francesca and Edward find a way to be together in the end?

This is the first book in the de Lacey brother’s stories and the truth about the duke, their father, the Duke of Durham. I really enjoyed Edward and Francesca together. Edward is logical, a secret romantic and very responsible, almost stodgy to a degree…that is until Francesca blows into his life and he finds himself opening up to her, letting his impulsiveness come through as she shows him how to live life to the fullest. This is an author who really captures who her characters are. I found them to be well written, likable and very personable. The sparks fly between these two and though they have a wonderful friendship, it turns to something more within the pages of ONE NIGHT IN LONDON.

Francesca is bold but not stubborn. Edward is responsible and almost stodgy. When these two meet, fireworks erupt and sparks fly all over the place. Edward has two sides to him-one he shows his family and the world and the other when he is alone with Francesca. I loved how he shed his responsible coat, so to speak, and showed his sensual, romantic side with her. It stole my heart. Francesca is a perfect counterpart to him. She is bold, fierce and loves life. Both bring different things to the relationship and it works perfectly for them. The secondary characters are also well written and kept the story moving along nicely.

ONE NIGHT IN LONDON sets up the de Lacey brother’s story as they race to figure out their father’s secret. Caroline Linden is a talented author who captivates her readers from the first page with her lush stories and engaging characters. If you are looking for a trio of stories to enjoy on a perfect summer day, then grab this series and settle back for hours of reading fun. I look forward to seeing what happens to Edward’s brothers- Charles, the heir and new duke and Gerard.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of the book.

No comments: