In "The Last Hellion" by Loretta Chase, the story follows Vere, the Duke of Ainsworthy, and Lydia Grenville, a strong-willed journalist, as they clash and eventually fall in love. Vere, initially seen as dissolute and cynical due to his tragic past, begins to reveal his good side as he interacts with Lydia, who challenges him in a playful yet earnest manner. The book is filled with humor, clever dialogue, and romantic tension as the two protagonists navigate their growing attraction amidst a backdrop of crime and adventure.

Characters:

The characters within the story are richly developed, with Vere as a charismatic, conflicted duke and Lydia as a strong, socially conscious heroine, providing an engaging relationship dynamic.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style showcases sharp humor and engaging dialogue, highlighting character interactions through clever and playful prose.

Plot/Storyline:

The narrative follows Vere Mallory, a troubled duke, as he navigates romance with Lydia, a journalist, while addressing themes of loss and social justice. The inclusion of various subplots creates a complex, albeit sometimes convoluted, storytelling experience.

Setting:

The setting provides a rich backdrop in early Victorian London, balancing the dynamics of high society with the struggles of the lower classes.

Pacing:

The book maintains a lively pace early on, which gradually slows as more subplots are introduced, potentially leading to reader disengagement.

The enormous black mastiff who'd been drowsing before the editor's office door lifted her head and gazed with mild curiosity from Macgowan to her mistress. Upon ascertaining that the latter was in no ...

Notes:

The Last Hellion is part of Loretta Chase's Scoundrels series.

Vere Mallory, the hero, is known as the last Mallory Hellion and also the Duke of Ainswood.

The title 'Hellion' signifies both trouble and sadness for Vere's family.

Vere has experienced significant loss, attending many funerals in the past ten years.

Lydia Grenville, the heroine, is a 28-year-old journalist tackling social issues like prostitution.

Vere and Lydia's first encounter includes a humorous fight where Lydia unexpectedly punches Vere.

The romance develops from love at first sight through witty banter and arguments.

Lydia is depicted as an independent and strong heroine, often getting into trouble for her journalistic work.

In a pivotal moment, Vere presents Lydia with tools for her trade, showing respect for her individuality.

The book features a subplot about stolen jewelry, as well as a kidnapping involving Vere's wards.

Many fans noted that while entertaining, it doesn't quite match the impact of Chase's earlier work, Lord of Scoundrels.

The banter between Lydia and Vere is humorous and engaging, with memorable quotes and moments.

Chase's writing style is praised for its clever dialogue and emotional depth.

The story resonates with fans who appreciate strong characters and a mix of romance and adventure.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of grief, loss, and references to prostitution.

Has Romance?

The Last Hellion contains a high level of romance, focusing on the blossoming relationship between Vere and Lydia.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

A ferocious conflict of wills...

Vere Mallory, the Duke of Ainswood, has everything-he's titled, he's rich, he's devastatingly good looking-and he seems determined to throw it all away. Disreputable, reckless, and wild, the last of the Mallory hellions is racing headlong to self-destruction...until a mind numbingly beautiful blonde Amazon knocks him off his feet-literally.

An incendiary passion...

Lydia Grenville is dedicated to protecting London's downtrodden. Dissolute noblemen like Ainswood are part of the problem, not the solution. She would like him to get his big, gorgeous carcass out of her way so that she can carry on with her work. The problem is, Ainswood can no more resist a challenge, especially in female form, than he can resist the trouble she seems to attract.

If they can only weather their personal firestorm...

they might survive the real danger that threatens all they hold dear.

Ratings (4)

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Reader Stats (14):

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Want To Read (6)
Did Not Finish (1)
Not Interested (3)

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The Last Hellion

Loretta Chase

Book 4 in the series:Scoundrels