#Review: DESTINY WITH A DUKE by Alexa Aston

 

  4 of 5 stars

William Finchley never expected to inherit the dukedom especially since he's been estranged from his family since he was sent to Turner Academy as a child. With the help of his fellow Terrors, he begins to understand the duty and responsibility of being a duke, but he has a secret, one he's never told anyone. It haunts him still. When he meets Victoria, Lady Pemberton, she is the first woman he's ever felt desire for. He has vowed never to marry, but sweet and elegant Victoria tempts him like no other. Can he open his heart to this amazing woman or will he forever be haunted by his past?

This is the last book in this series and one that I had waited anxiously to read. I had guessed what Finch's secret was, but Ms. Aston writes with such emotion that I wanted Finch to overcome his trauma so badly. It is such a serious issue and it's no wonder Finch is haunted by what happened to him even years later. Victoria has her own trauma from her last marriage and she is also a fragile soul. The author does a great job of letting their chemistry shine through, but there is no easy HEA for this couple. My heart broke for Finch as he tried to tell Victoria his secret. The book is full of angst and heartbreak, but Ms. Aston is a great storyteller. Having the four other dukes a big part of the book was delightful to see how they also overcame the trauma of their childhood and married for love. This book can be read as a stand alone, but to get the full story of how the Terrors came to be such good friends, I would suggest reading all the books in the series.

I voluntarily read this advanced reader copy and all opinions are my own.