#Review: DISCOURAGING THE DUKE by Alexa Aston

 

  4 of 5 stars

Miles Notley never expected to become Duke of Winslow and when he returns home from the war he's in for a surprise. Emery, the stewart's daughter is actually the one managing the duchy because her father is failing. He greatly admires her. That admiration turns to something more and he wants Emery to become his duchess but she feels there is too much difference in their station in life. Can Miles convince her that he cares nothing for her rank and that he wants to marry her?

I was on the fence about this book whether to rate it 3 or 4 stars. I would have preferred a 3.5 rating because I thought the opening chapters about Miles's childhood were very well done and gave a great foundation for each of his "Terror" friends. It did take quite a bit into the book to get to adult Miles though. I liked Miles. He cares about his tenants and servants and treats everyone well. Emery was a interesting character. I liked that she was smart and could run the duchy keeping it profitable by herself. The romance between Miles and Emery was a little too rushed especially on Miles's part. Upon meeting her, he immediately knew he wanted to marry her. I would have preferred a bit more slow-burn type of romance for them. The villain came way too late in the book to really have the impact it should. It would have been better for the story if he had been woven in sooner. That plot twist helped explain his mother's behavior.

I liked the idea of the "Terrors" and look forward to reading more of their stories. I voluntarily read the advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.