


Now that I've had time to sink my brain into this one, the premise of the story is kind of awful. I've really enjoyed the first three books in this series as well as Kerrigan Byrne's writing and had even pre-ordered this book and the next one. Nevertheless, the climax and resolution are intense and exciting.Īll in all, a lovely read and I look forward to Gavin St. The minor suspense plot is the weakest element of the book as it is quite underdeveloped and somewhat rushed at the end. Imogen and Cole have incredible chemistry and their arguments (think liberal Democrat versus moderate Republican) are some of the most sizzling and entertaining in the genre.Īs always, Byrne does not shy away from the harsher realities of Victorian England whether it be the plight of prostitutes and abused women or the suffering of soldiers returning from war with both physical and mental wounds.

As a barmaid and a nurse, Imogen is as far from an aristocratic debutante as it is possible to be, and Cole, despite being an illustrious duke, is suffering from both a physical disability and severe PTSD (which goes a long way toward explaining his irascibility and general "asshatness"). The second chances romance between Imogen Pritchard and Cole Talmage is particularly appealing mainly due to the fact that the hero and heroine are atypical fare for historical romance. Now that her long-lost lover has turned up in her hospital, injured and with no memory of her, Imogen is torn: Is it a blessing or a curse that their past remains a secret to Cole, even as his new passion for her leaves him wanting to protect and possess her.at all costs, in The Duke,the next Victorian Rebelsnovel by Kerrigan Byrne. Imogen entered a marriage of convenience-one that left her a wealthy widow-but she never forgot Cole. Years ago, when she was young and penniless, she ended up spending a scandalous night with Cole, whose tormented soul was matched only by his earth-shattering passion.

Imogen Pritchard is a beautiful lass who works in a hospital by day and as a serving maid at night. And now he's ready for the fight of his lifetime. But Cole is not one to dwell on misfortune. Cole's family is killed and his closest comrade betrays him on the battlefield, leaving him gravely injured. He's the English Empire's golden son-until fate has its way with him. Collin "Cole" Talmage, Duke of Trewyth, is the stuff that legends are made of. "This page-turning novel full of historical details and sensuous romance."- Publishers Weekly (starred review) He's noble.
