Never Say Duke (12 Dukes of Christmas, #4)

by Erica Ridley

[Lindsey Gray]

Virginia has been shown little love from her family during her lifetime. After a disastrous first season, her father sent her away so her younger sisters might have a chance at good matches. Through perseverance and a determined spirit, she made her way to the town of Christmas and has made a life for herself at the Castle. She cares for every living thing and is content to do so until she realizes she wants more.

Theodore O’Hanlon, Viscount Ormondton, has come to his friend’s estate in Christmas to recuperate after severe injuries occurred while fighting in the war. He wants no soul in Christmas to know who he is, including the woman who has taken it upon herself to become his personal nurse. Virginia takes to the mysterious Mr T like she does all her wounded animals and begins to make progress despite the stubbornness she’s met with.

Ridley takes a fresh turn on the nurse/patient love story. She gives us a young woman terrified of the ton and large gatherings, yet is completely selfless when it comes to helping others. She doesn’t know the Viscount and doesn’t care who he is. He needs help and she desires to give it. I absolutely adored Virginia! She’s sweet, a little sassy, and doesn’t give in to her patient’s grumpiness. I completely understood why Ormondton chose to hide away once his family history and experiences in the war were explained. I love how Ridley brought him to life slowly as he interacted with Virginia.

Never Say Duke is a slow burn with a well earned happily ever after. I’m excited to see what Ridley has in store for the rest of the dukes!

I received Never Say Duke for free. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.