Surrendering to the Duke, the first book in the Lords of Desire series by Stevie Sparks, follows the story of Emmaline, a widow, and Michael, the new Duke of Foxcotte. Set in the aftermath of World War II, the book explores their complex relationship as Michael tries to court Emmaline despite her traumatic past. The story delves into themes of forbidden love, war, death, CSA, and secrets, while also highlighting the support from Michael's family, adding depth to the characters. The book is known for its emotional roller coaster ride, scorching chemistry between the main characters, and the detailed historical setting that captures the aftermath of the war.

Characters:

The characters are richly developed, with Michael as a caring hero and Emmeline as a resilient and self-aware woman, both facing their past traumas.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is noted for its engaging, skillfully crafted prose with rich detail and emotional depth.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on unrequited love that evolves into a romantic relationship, with themes of guilt and trauma from their pasts, specifically in a post-WWI setting.

Setting:

The setting is in post-WWI England, creating a backdrop that reflects the impacts of war and societal changes.

Pacing:

Pacing is mixed, with some lengthy chapters that may drag at times, but overall it maintains reader engagement.

Notes:

The story features unrequited love where the hero, Michael, loved Emmeline since they first met.

It's set in post-WWI, exploring themes of war trauma and emotional aftermath.

Emmeline is a complex character who has overcome childhood abuse and neglect.

Michael is described as kind, patient, witty, and wicked, embodying the ideal MMC traits.

The romance develops early in the story without much angst, focusing more on their relationship growth.

The book has a steamy and romantic tone, with several hot and unique sex scenes.

The authors' writing style is praised for being skillfully crafted and emotionally engaging.

The plot addresses heavy topics like childhood abuse and trauma but balances it with humor and romance.

This book is the first in the 'Lords of Desire' series and marks Stevie Sparks' debut as an author.

Readers noted it was difficult to put the book down due to its engaging characters and storyline.

Michael and Emmeline's relationship navigates complexities of his feelings for his late brother's wife.

Reviews point to the chemistry and banter between the main characters as a highlight.

Many readers loved the emotional growth of both MCs throughout the story, culminating in a happy ending.

There are trigger warnings for sensitive topics, indicating adult themes in the narrative.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

The book includes trigger/content warnings related to childhood abuse, PTSD, and themes of trauma.

Has Romance?

The romance is a central element in the book, showcasing deep emotional connections and steamy interactions between the main characters.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

🩷 Late husband's brother

🏰 Age gap romance

🩷 He falls in love first

🏰 Only one bed

🩷 Happy ever after

His brother's wife. He loved his brother's wife.

After losing his heart to Emmeline, the one woman he could never have, Michael committed himself to a life in the army, fighting for King and country in the Great War.

...Until his brother died, and Michael returned to Scarlett Castle as the Duke of Foxcotte.

Fed up with her lack of grandchildren, Michael's mother hatches a plan to bring Michael and Emmeline together in a marriage of convenience. However, whilst Michael agrees to court Emmeline, they both secretly long for something more passionate than a business arrangement. But Michael could have never imagined that hidden trauma lurked beneath Emmeline's emerald eyes.

Michael and Emmeline soon ignite a flame that threatens to consume them both as they learn that all relationships come with risks both wanted and unwanted. Will their marriage of convenience be successful? Or will Emmeline's traumatic past catch up to her and sweep her away?

If you're looking for a steamy historical romance novel, then Surrender to the Duke today !

Surrendering to the Duke is a historical romance novel of approximately 99,000 words with no cheating between the hero and heroine, no cliffhangers, and a guaranteed HEA. It contains adult language and NINE scenes that are simply scandalous .

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Surrendering to the Duke

Stevie Sparks

Book 1 in the series:Lords of Desire