How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days (An American Heiress in London, #2) by Laura Lee Guhrke Series: An American Heiress in London #2
Published by Avon on April 29th 2014
Genres: Historical
Pages: 371
Goodreads
Beautiful and Powerful Story of Love After Marriage
“Her marriage was perfect”
THE STORY: The Duke and Duchess of Margrave have a marriage of convenience. They agreed that Edie, and American heiress, would contribute her immense dowry, get the title, and take over running the ducal estates and that Stuart would go to Africa and never come back. Five years later, Stuart is nearly killed by a lion and realizes that he wants to try and build a real marriage with his wife. He returns to England and his wife is appalled. She has no intention of being close to any man, including her husband. Stuart offers Edie a deal, if she gives him ten days to try and win a kiss from her, he will agree to a legal separation if he fails.
OPINION: This book is a powerful story about pain and loss and recovery from deep wounds of all kinds. The way that Edie’s personal story is compared and contrasted with Stuart’s was especially illuminating. This book focuses especially on the power of love to heal, but there is also the power of choice and respect and trust. I was especially moved by Stuart’s reaction to Edie’s history and his determination to show her respect and earn her trust. I thought the story moved in ways that were unexpected and I came to really like the characters of Stuart and Edie. My only complaint was that their happy ending was cut a bit short. I would have liked more — maybe in subsequent book in the series.
WORTH MENTIONING: Readers should be aware that this book has depictions of rape and its aftermath.
FINAL DECISION: Although married, this book is really how Stuart and Edie get to know one another and fall in love. I thought the story was well developed and I would recommend it.
CONNECTED BOOKS: This is the second book in the An American Heiress in London series. It can be read as a standalone without missing anything.
STAR RATING: I give this book 4 stars.