The Duke Deal

Whitmorelands Series, Book 1

De: Valerie Bowman

Narrado por: Jessica Bright

When Veronica said "I do" to Sebastian Sinclair, Duke of Edgefield, she thought all her dreams had come true. He was dashing and doting, and she absolutely adored him—until he betrayed her trust, shattering their marriage, and her heart, into a million tiny bits. She hasn't seen her husband in the two years since, and she'd just as soon make it twenty. But when she learns that her beloved grandfather's dying wish is for her and Sebastian to attend the family's Christmastide celebration, she swallows her pride and asks him a favor: to pretend they're the happy couple they once were.

Sebastian is shocked to find his lovely duchess on his doorstep, but he's ready and willing to play the part of a devoted husband for the Christmas season . . . if Veronica will grant him a favor in return. All he asks is that she share his bed every night. All night. And maybe even give him the heir he needs.

Veronica must be mad to agree—especially since Sebastian seems intent on using every weapon in his arsenal to charm and seduce her. She knows it's just pretend and yet, she can't help but wonder if the falling snow and Christmas cheer will work a little magic.

Contains mature themes.

©2023 June Third Enterprises, LLC (P)2023 Tantor

Great Story Idea & Writing Skill- [SPOILERS]

But... it was wholly galling to have the first 3/4 of story characterized by his deplorable behavior (apoeared to be cheating with his mistress, got offended that wife should have "trusted" him, & admittedly failed to bring any emotions into marriage) with his justification & as her being "stubborn" & "unreasonable" & "judgmental" & a "witch" & other patronizing & discounting terms. He was NOT made to grovel or repent or suffer or even acknowledge his selfish cold garbage behavior enough to make this couple's reconciliation believable. Focusing on her attraction to his "Adonis" self and the physical sex part did not redeem it.

Though the story itself could be excellent, and the writing generally good, so much else did not ring true either. The brother should have been made to pay more, too. What an extraordinary betrayal by Justin, who (in other books) is highly protective of his sisters. So why was he such a passive ass for this sister for two years & then brings the mistress to meet her later (supposedly to clear the air)? It made no sense. It made him seem cruel. And the mistress's ghost just kindof hovers over it & haunts the HEA throughout without story clarity that eliminates her or explains her away properly. Even after the fact, mistress's explanation is not enough. It was evil & not justifiable for either her brother or for Sebastian. The fact that the heroine's husband & entire family manipulated Veronica, her emotions, & even took Sebastian's side like sneaky betrayers is extremely distasteful to the feel-good ending, despite the so-called good family intentions. Then Veronica says in the end that SHE was the intolerant wife? What?! And HE kicks her out & sends her away?! Again...WTH?! Not well done at all. At all. The HEA sucked big time. But story idea had so much promise before it failed to play out.