The Duke

Silver Linings Mysteries, Book 6

By: Mary Kingswood

Narrated by: Joanna Stephens

The dramatic conclusion to the series!

The sinking of the Brig Minerva results in many deaths, while for others, the future is suddenly brighter. But it’s not always easy to leave the past behind.

Lord Randolph Litherholm has spent a year coming to terms with the death of his twin brother Gervase, the 7th Duke of Falconbury. Now it’s time to set aside his mourning and accept his role as the 8th Duke of Falconbury. It’s not the management of the vast Litherholm wealth that bothers him, for he’s been running the estate for years. No, his reluctance is all due to the marriage that was arranged for his brother, and the expectation that Ran will take on his brother’s bride as well as his title.

Lady Ruth Grenaby’s marriage was arranged when she was 12. Now, she’s 21 and still waiting for her wedding day. Her intended husband is dead, but to her father, the younger brother will do just as well. He’s a duke, after all, and his eldest daughter can’t possibly marry a less exalted man.

She’s a dutiful daughter, so she’ll do as her father says and marry Ran, even if he only sees her as another inherited obligation. But shattering events cause her to re-evaluate everything she’s ever believed in, and she must decide between duty and love.

This is a complete story with a HEA. Book six of a six-book series. A traditional Regency romance, drawing room rather than bedroom.

©2020 Mary Kingswood (P)2020 Mary Kingswood

Disappointing

I really enjoyed this series, but was disappointed that the author did not address the mystery of the sinking of the Minerva even though it was brought up throughout the series.

The weakest in the series

I have loved this series, and the author is great at creating clean, unique story lines. I will always buy her work. However, this one devolved into the typical misunderstandings and lack of communication, along with repetitive and overly lengthy internal ponderings. I frequently listened at a fast speed and skipped over many of the internal thoughts. It’s worth reading, however, to learn who the benefactor is. Plus, there are plenty of other interesting parts that make it enjoyable. I just wish an editor had been allowed to trim out some of the repetitive filler and internal angst to make it a tighter, fresher read.

Wonderful plot, excellent character development, lovely romances without unnecessary bedroom details.

The narration is masterful and adds much to the interesting plot and lovely writing. Mary Kingswood has become my favorite author. Her plots are very interesting, and the characters are fully developed. Joanna Stephens' narration is superior!

Confused and Bored

The despair at realizing the potential plot twists were never coming and instead you were to endure hours of old, tired tropes. The drama and tension went on for too long and made me feel anxious. The immature and very unlikable heros/heroines were not redeemed at the end. At the end I wasn't really sure who the story was about and didnt feel connected to anyone. There were serious cheesy moments too were I almost stopped listening.

Three positives are, you learn who the Benefactor is and with that knowledge receive a special perspective and connection to previous books and also receive a heartwarming and encouraging message.

I really like this author and have listened to all but 3 of her books. This is the only book of hers I didn't enjoy.