Always Be My Duchess

Amalie Howard

Book 1 in the series:Taming of the Dukes

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Who Would Like This Book:

If you adore historical romance with modern flair, you'll love "Always Be My Duchess." Fans of the fake engagement trope, sizzling chemistry, and strong, relatable heroines will find lots to swoon over here. Lysander, the neurodivergent and brooding Duke, paired with feisty, big-hearted ballerina Genevieve, make for a truly compelling couple. Add in a vibrant supporting cast (lots of potential for future stories!), sparkling dialogue, and a "Pretty Woman"-inspired premise, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a charming, addictive read. If you enjoy stories that blend heart, humor, and a bit of steam, this book’s for you.

Who May Not Like This Book:

Some readers may find the story a bit predictable, especially if you’re familiar with the fake relationship trope or the Pretty Woman retelling formula. If you prefer historical romances that are ultra-traditional or meticulously period-accurate, you might be distracted by the modern touches. The slow-burn romance and over-the-top steaminess may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and certain plot elements can feel a bit unbelievable or light on true conflict.

A flirty, feel-good historical romance with great representation and irresistible leads - perfect for fans of tropey, steamy, character-driven love stories.

About:

Always Be My Duchess by Amalie Howard is a historical romance novel that follows the passionate and fiery relationship between Genevieve, a down-on-her-luck ballerina with integrity and a big heart, and Lysander, a wealthy Duke with difficulty expressing emotions due to a mental behavioral disorder. The story unfolds with a memorable meet cute between the characters, leading to a fake engagement that slowly turns into true feelings. With a perfect blend of spice, outstanding characters, and a touch of the fake dating trope, this novel takes readers on a romantic journey filled with passion, depth, and heart.

The plot of Always Be My Duchess is light yet engaging, with a focus on character development and the evolving relationship between Genevieve and Lysander. The writing style, characterized by steamy scenes, unique character dynamics, and a touch of unpredictability, keeps readers hooked from the very first chapter. Amalie Howard's storytelling shines through in this historical romance, offering a fresh take on the genre with well-crafted characters and a compelling storyline.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed and relatable, featuring a neurodivergent hero and a strong-willed heroine, with distinct personalities among secondary characters.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style combines passionate prose with engaging characterization, though it sometimes leans towards flowery language.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features a romantic journey that is both rocky and compelling, including themes of fake engagement and significant character development akin to the movie Pretty Woman.

Setting:

The setting is in Victorian England, featuring typical social events and contrasting locales.

Pacing:

The pacing is generally fast, with an engaging beginning that slows down at certain points, particularly in the middle.

Lord Lysander Blackstone, the very pragmatic and always sensible Duke of Montcroix, was well and truly lost. On the outskirts of St. Giles. Well past the hour most sensible people would be abed. One c...

Notes:

The book features a strong romantic chemistry between the main characters, Lysander and Genevieve.

It is the first book in the Taming of the Dukes series by Amalie Howard.

The story is a retelling of Pretty Woman but set in a historical context.

Lysander, the male lead, is portrayed as a neurodivergent character.

Genevieve, the female lead, is a ballerina faced with challenges in her career.

The book includes relatable themes such as love, independence, and family.

The plot includes a fake engagement trope that evolves into true feelings between the characters.

The writing has been described as passionate and magical with charming dialogue.

Readers noted a memorable meet cute involving a robbery and a pistol.

Secondary characters are also highlighted, suggesting potential future stories in the series.

The book explores themes of societal class differences in romance.

The story has significant spice and steamy moments.

Some readers found the pacing inconsistent, but many enjoyed the overall journey.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include themes of emotional distress related to mental health, class disparities, and socioeconomic struggles.

Has Romance?

The romance is a central element, featuring deep connections and chemistry between the characters.

explicit steam level

From The Publisher:

Pretty Woman meets the Bridgertons in this witty, vivacious historical take on 90s romcoms by USA Today bestselling author Amalie Howard:

"Refreshing, steamy, and stocked with characters you don't normally get to see in the genre-a must-read author."

-Jodi Picoult, #1 New York Times bestselling author

"Fabulous writing . . . such a delicious escape. Utterly delightful!"

-Eloisa James, New York Times bestselling author

"Amalie Howard tells a story with self-assured style, wit, and energy . . . her writing sparkles!" - Lisa Kleypas, New York Times bestselling author

Lord Lysander Blackstone, the stern Duke of Montcroix, has only one interest: increasing his considerable fortune. After a series of betrayals, he keeps his emotions buried deep. Money, after all, can't break a man's heart-or make promises it can't keep. But when his reputation for being heartless jeopardizes a new business deal, he finds himself seeking a most unusual-and alluring-solution . . .

Once an up-and-coming ballerina, Miss Geneviève Valery is now hopelessly out of work. After refusing to become a wealthy patron's mistress, Nève was promptly shown the door to the streets. When she accidentally saves the life of a handsome duke, she doubts the encounter will go any better than her last brush with nobility. But instead of propositioning her, Montcroix makes Nève an offer she would be a fool to refuse: act as his fake fiancée in exchange for fortune enough to start over.

Only neither is prepared when very real feelings begin to grow between them. They both stand to win . . . but only if they're willing to risk their hearts.

July 2022

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369 pages

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