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It has been a long while since a historical romance has resonated deeply with me. This book was everything I could want in a romantic story. This was a rollercoaster of a book. I felt both the character’s heartbreaking anguish and unconditional love. The story was complex and enthralling, yet when you peel back the layers, you get a simple, beautiful love story.
At the beginning of the book, Katherine discovers she is married to a polygamist. She is reluctantly introduced to the two other wives and her husband’s half-brother, Christian, the Duke of Ranford. Poor Katherine is thrown into the maelstrom of a disaster of epic proportions. Katherine has raised her station by hard work, determination, a little deception. Katherine resolves all these issues with dignity and grace. She is all heart, making friends with the other wives. I loved her generosity and selflessness. She deserves someone who would love her unconditionally and respect her.
Christian is the epitome of what a duke should be. He is a returning soldier who wants to help his less fortunate veteran friends. This book discusses how difficult it is for a soldier to reintegrate into society after the war is over. A lot of times, there is no support system, even in this time period. I found it a timely topic relative to now. I liked everything about Christian. He had a strength of character both physically and emotionally. He had dignity. Christian had such grace and gentleness when he dealt with Katherine and the other wives.
The relationship and love between Christian and Katherine were genuine and organic. The burgeoning love was felt on the first page where they met. They were two halves of a whole. There was no denying their chemistry. I don’t have strong enough words for the passion between the couple. The electric energy jumped and sizzled from the page. There was no denying they belonged together.
The plot navigated the aspects of conflict vs. angst perfectly. The couple had many obstacles, but it wasn’t too stressful for the reader. I enjoyed this aspect; I like to be entertained with a generous amount of emotional depth but not so much as it takes away from the story. The plot was the best I have read in quite a while. I have felt like most of the books I have been reading lately were mediocre. This book decimated this trend. It was a fantastic plot. There was intrigue and mystery. The plot unfolded perfectly. It was a most endearing love story. It is one of the few books I would read again. I love epilogues, and this book had a terrific one.
Overall the book was a joy to read. I felt every heartache and triumph. I was captivated on page one. This book is an excellent introduction to a series I believe will be unique. I am on the edge of my seat for more!
I received this ARC through Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press. This is my honest, voluntary opinion.
Hello fellow readers! This book is the first in the Widow Rules Series. As you can probably tell I absolutely loved this book! It was such a compelling story. I fell in love with the characters. I haven’t had such a pleasant read in months! This is one of my favorite books this year! I cannot wait for the next book in the Widow Rules series.
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