The Duke’s Unexpected Courtship is an endearing love story about a self-prescribed ugly duckling who might find love after all.

I thought from the description Ada and her sister, Hetty, were going to conflict throughout the story due to jealousy or just snobbery but their relationship is very sweet and for the most part Hetty is very protective of her sister.

I know this probably sounds silly but when the Duke took Ada out for her first dance it was written with such beautiful tension that as a reader I was holding my breath hoping no one would approach them (for the Dukes sake) and no one would steal him away from Ada (for her ability to claim him as her first dance). I wont spoil it but I was so caught up in that moment I chuckled to myself when it concluded and I realized I checked out of reality. I really lost myself in the book.

I was also surprised to also find a bit of Napoleonic War politics inside. The author clearly has done their research and is passionate about the time period.

It’s a puppy dog romance but the characters are great and the ending is worth finishing the novel. I appreciate that nearly every character was pleasant and even Ada’s mother was able to get her happy ending.

Some formatting tips: My Kobo seemed to only find “A Free Gift” in the table of contents. So there was no way to quickly navigate between chapters if I wanted. Also, a couple of paragraphs are missing double new lines.

Cover: I love the colors of this cover, I looked at your other novels and whoever your artist really captures the beauty of your writing. I also appreciate that Ada is supposed to be plain and content and her cover art depicts that really well.