I've read other books by Ms. Evans and this book, though dark, is enjoyable. Dealing with the subject of addiction and the power to overcome it, is a timely issue, but in the Regency period, not much was known about the addictive properties of opium and laudanum. I could feel the struggle Alex, Duke of Bedford, was facing every day. Captured by a Turk during the war and held for 2 years, Alex was addicted to opium and Murad's sex slave. When he rescues sixteen-year-old Lady Hestia from the same evil Turk, she falls hard for him. Relationships become even more tangled because it was Hestia's father who had rescued Alex from Murad years earlier and when Alex returns Hestia unharmed to her father, he extracted a vow from Alex to never offer for his daughter.

This story is not the usual Regency romance. Most of the book takes place on the high seas where Alex and Hestia cannot hide from each other. I did get a little tired of Alex's internal dialogue about not being good enough for the innocent Hestia. Romance, redemption and vanquishing an enemy makes this story an very enjoyable read. It doesn't take place in the ballroom so many of the tons rules are not restricting the hero and heroine. There were a couple of excellent twists that caught me by surprise.

This was an entertaining adventure about a woman, Hestia, who has been in love with Alex for the past 4 years, ever since he saved her from Turkish Pirates. Alex has done everything he could, except marry someone else, to push Hestia away, going as far as to let her catch him with another woman in a very compromising way. He does not believe he deserves her due to the fact that he had been held captive by the same Turkish pirate, who kidnapped Hestia, for two years, having to do things he is ashamed of doing in order to survive. But when her father is presumed dead by a cousin in order to claim the title, Alex is the only man she can think to go to for help. He agrees to help her find her father and they set off for the Mediterranean to face both of their demons and their attraction for each other. Alex has ulterior motives for helping Hestia, he was to seek vengeance from the man who enslaved him, though he keeps that a secret from Hestia. He has every intention of fighting his desire for Hestia but being on a confining ship for weeks on end inevitably leads to passionate encounters. Hestia wants to win Alex, but she comes to realize she really doesn't know who Alex is and he refuses to enlighten her about himself and what he went through while enslaved. She sets out to prove to him that love can heal and the past does not have to control the future.

I enjoyed the story, it had highs and lows in the emotional turmoil category, though my one frustration was that as Hestia learned that Alex didn't truly care for her the way she thought he did (supposedly) she comes to the conclusion to step back only to wake the next day ready to fight for him again. It was like one minute her heart breaks at finding out he loved another woman (going as far as to call out the other woman's name in a drug induced state) and coming to realize he didn't love her and never did to back to being optimistic about her chances to win him. I would have loved for her to actually stick to the notion that he didn't love her, but rather was in love with another woman, and to let him come to realize he did and fight for her. She seemed to be the only one truly fighting for a relationship and the few moments when he realizes how much he cares for her, he doesn't act on it (when he thinks he is going to lose her to men from his ship who try to kidnap her). I wanted Alex to at some point fight for her, but she, in the end, rescues him from the Turkish pirates and is strong for the both of them, which is cool in a way, but I needed the two characters to be a bit more equal in the ability to fight for one another. I understand the demons Alex faced and I understand why he thought he was unworthy of her love, but he seemed to only show his passion and love for her while they were having sex. Afterward he kind of steps back into an aloof manner.

With this said, I did love the story and their adventure. The characters were strong and the plot was enjoyable. The conflict and villains were formidable but not over the top. There were surprises and twists along the way that did keep me turning the pages to the very end. The ending was great and the epilog gave me both the nice wrap-up to the story and teased me about what is to come next. I liked it.

A DNF for me. The story and language were just too overwrought and dramatic. Sorry! Thanks for the ARC.

A Very good Historical Romance.
Alex didn't think he was a good man because of his past. but Hestia knew the real Alex.
Good drama, action,angst and romance.
Very enticing story full of passion and drama.
Really enjoyed reading.

This was a good read. The Duke is an interesting character with a dark past. Lady Hestia has been through a lot & wants the Duke for herself. She fell in love with him when he rescued her a few years back, & she's determined that he will see her as an equal & as a lover. Seeing these two go back & forth made for good reading. Highly recommend reading this to see how their story ends up.

Alex proves that there are far more dangerous things that one could be addicted to. Hestia tries a couple of times to think differently about Alex. She realizes that he might not ever return her affections, so pretty much why bother. Then he goes and does something wonderful, and it's addiction all over again. When you put your mind to something you can overcome any obstacle might be a good moral for this book. Both Alex and Hestia prove just how truly strong they are and how remarkable they are together.

Alexander Sylvester Bracken, Duke of Bedford, has a mission: sail to the Mediterranean and track down Lady Hestia Cary’s missing father. It is a straightforward task, but for two rather vexing complications. First, the Mediterranean & the Greek islands hold painful memories; second, for her own safety, Hestia is to accompany him. As Alex battles the demons of his past, he must also resist Hestia’s surprisingly skillful attempts at seduction. After all, Alex has sworn to her father leave her untouched, and he intends to honour that vow.
Ever since His Grace rescued Hestia from the arms of a Turkish pirate Sultan Murad four long years ago, her heart has belonged to Alex. So when he agrees to help find her father, Hestia is thrilled. Although Alex tries to hide it, there’s passion in his eyes and the air almost crackles whenever they meet.
Another very well written, engrossing page turning novel. The characters are so well portrayed. The pace of the book keeps you riveted & I read into the small hours to finish it. The author also take you through a gamut of emotions from laughter to tears. Alex is flawed & must fight his demons from his capture & two year captivity; Hestia is a strong levelheaded woman who knows what she wants. The chemistry between them sizzles & finally combusts. Alex’s struggle from opium addiction & abuse is well written & I really felt for him & all he’d been through. As I’ve come to expect from the author a powerful, brilliant masterful romance & I’m now waiting for more in the series.

This is the second book of Bronwen Evans I have read, and I am not impressed. I had many issues with this novel, consent being a big one.

To begin, there were many scenes throughout the novel that seemed jumpy. I had to reread several passages to confirm that the author is just being jumpy. It made it hard to follow.

Another issue is the sex. I love a good sex scene, but the ones in this novel are quite ridiculous. The first one lacked consent. That is never acceptable but wasn't even the worst part. What in the world is wrong with the characters if they are willing to have sex just after killing a man and his dead body is just hanging out in the corner. How does that equate to sexy time?

Another issue I had was the notorious bad guy telling his whole plan before it goes down scenario. This is just dumb. It would have been better as a mystery, without the breakdown.

Overall, I was not impressed with the novel, but did manage to finish it. (I mostly finished it so that I wouldn't feel guilty moving onto other novels.) I'm not sure I'll request any from this author in the future.

This book was okay but felt familiar and the plot has been done a million times. I love historical romance but I'm tired of reading about rakes who get their jollies by womanizing and whoring, and the women who for some reason love them. Lot of unbelievable action and plot points. I was hoping for something more fresh and original. Thank you NetGalley for letting me take a look!

Wow, what a serious yet romantic story. I will need time to process this story further. Some books just make you think about them and this is one of those stories. Must read!

3.5 Stars
A historical romance that touches on a social issue not only from the time period the story takes place in, but one that's an issue today (nice touch). The MCs are likeable, as are some of the supporting characters, even if some are a bit static. The ship as a setting was a nice change from typical romance novels too. This book was the first I have read by the author, and it kept my interest enough to give the next one a try. For historical romance fans.

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Loved this story and how it dug more indepth with drug addiction. I wish Alex didnt fight so hard against loving Hestia when it was obvious they belonged together. I also wished they would have discussed what happened to Alex and how they worked thru it. How can a woman be with a man that has been with another man and not wonder or have questions?

I've read other books by Bronwen Evans so was looking forward to this one. Sadly, was disappointed in the story though the premise was good.felt the characters were not developed enough to be believable.

The good: The writing was top notch. I learned a lot about opium and laudanum addiction in the Regency era. Many writers touch on this subject in passing, but they don't bother to educate us at all. Evans appears to have done extensive research.

The bad: It focused a little TOO much on the addiction aspect, which prevented me from engaging more in the story. It almost took over the story. Did not like the name Hestia (how do you even pronounce that?), even though I realize names that sound weird by today's standards were once common.

Overall: Well written, good story, and I'll be looking for the next in the series.

Rated 4.5!

Alexander once saved Lady Hestia from a fate worse than death. He has long tried to forget the beauty who wormed her way into his heart, but when Hestia calls on Alexander desperate for his help, he cannot resist. Alexander wants to guard himself against Hestia, but since they will be journeying together overseas in search of her missing father, Alexander knows that is going to be impossible.

Hestia is glad to have Alexander by her side. She has been in love with him for years and now is her chance to make him see the woman she has become. Hestia is not above seducing him in order to win his heart. Unfortunately, danger lurks and a certain dastardly villain may just rip them apart for good this time.

What a perfect start to a wonderful new series by author Bronwen Evans. IMPERFECT LORDS begins with the wickedly captivating novel titled ADDICTED TO THE DUKE. First off, any book by Bronwen Evans goes on my must read list so this one was no exception. And what self-respecting historical romance reader wouldn't be intrigued with a title like ADDICTED TO THE DUKE. If that doesn't grab you, what about the super hot bare-chested guy on the cover. ADDICTED TO THE DUKE is more than just your typical love story. It's raw and dark, yet very sensual at the same time. In it, the hero, Alexander meets his match in spirited yet sweet Lady Hestia. She is the balm to Alexander's scarred soul. I was really touched by Alexander's struggles with his addiction to opium. He is certainly an inspiration to me. Looking forward to reading book two in Ms. Evan's IMPERFECT LORDS series.

Alexander Bracken has saved Lady Hestia Cary from a fate worse than death 4 years ago and he should know as he had spent 2 years as a captive of this evil man. She loves him but can't get his attention once they are home again. Now her father is missing and the cousin who would get the title says he is dead. Alex needs to go find him but can't leave Hestia behind as the cousin is after her money and will do what he needs to in order to get it. As the voyage continues can Alex stay away from her. Many twists and turns to keep you asking for more.

Bronwen Evans is a gifted writer although her romances are a bit dark. She seems to write of the darker side of life. As the reader, you root for her hero and heroine to be able to reach their HEA quickly.

The Duke of Bedford had saved Hestia when she was only sixteen from the horrible man, Murad, who had imprisoned the duke for two years as a sex slave keeping him under the influence of opium. Four years later Hestia needs the Duke’s help to find her father in order to keep her cousin from taking over her father’s title of Earl and estates. Her cousin has brought a body from the Mediterranean telling everyone it is her father and he has been dead for some time. Therefore, her cousin is now the earl.

Back when Hestia had been rescued from Murad by the duke, she fell in love with the Duke of Bedford appreciating his kind treatment of her while sailing back to England to take her home. Hestia’s father had warned the duke he could not have her for his wife, warning him away from his daughter.

With the trouble being caused by her cousin, the duke agrees to go to the Mediterrean with her to find her father as she does not believe he is dead. Her evidence is a missing ring and locket that would have been on her father’s body. She knows her cousin is lying and that her father must be in danger if the cousin is willing to lie to get what he wants.

During the years between her rescue and the need to rescue her father found the duke living a carnal life trying to forget the life he had lived while under Murad’s rule. Hestia never stopped loving him and knew from rumors of how he lived a thoroughly debased life. In addition, he would not have anything to do with her, always formal when they chanced to meet.

Their journey takes them through some difficult situations with Hestia and Bedford just trying to stay alive. Again, this is a dark romance. It is not something you want to read to lighten your day with a feel good romance, but Bronwen Evan’s books normally are sinister. The couple do reach their HEA with love winning over the horrific life Bedford lived while under the influence of opium. The writing is great, but just know what you are picking up when you sit down to read it. Do not misunderstand, I thoroughly enjoy Evans books, and enjoy them for what they are.

Addicted to the Duke by Bronwen Evans is #1 in what promises to be an intriguing new series, "Imperfect Lords". Bronwen Evans continues to write, a brilliantly and masterfully work of romance! Such feelings and emotions shown throughout this powerful and compelling story, are hard to convene to readers. But she managed it, beautifully. Very impressive!

I loved Alex, his desire to survive, his revenge was well deserved, and his feelings of not being worthy was honest, and true feelings. I understand how people who have been or seen such abuse, could face such feelings. It addresses the inner turmoil of such things and how love can heal their wounds. Well done! It also addresses the issues of drug abuse and disabilities, tactfully and honestly. Alex defintely deserved a life of love and happiness. He did not deserve to feel shame for his misfortune, especially, since it was not his fault. To live in captivity for two years and survive, made him a better man, and helped to shape him into the man became.

Hestia was loveable, feisty, fearless, admirable, and very stubborn, albeit a bit naive, but she was determined to get her man. She also understood Alex, for what he was, not what he thought he should be, for people to respect him, and love him for himself. I think her love for Alex made her a bit reckless, at times. I liked how Hestia stood by Alex at all cost, even at her own risk. She was very determined to save her man.

I loved how Alex and Hestia, managed to push past their fears, insecurities, and their past to find healing, love, and just maybe a HEA.

I think "Addicted to the Duke" was an emotionally charged tale. One that deals with issues of sexual and drug abuse, as well as, opium addiction. Ms. Evans did a wonderful job writing about tough issues that are quiet common in today's world. Readers will be able to connect to Alex and Hestia's story. I certainly did! I know people who faced the same issues as Alex, some gave into the addiction for the oblivion it brought, others was overcome and couldn't let it go. Sexual abuse, rather, male or female is devastating to all.

I read "Addicted to the Duke" in one day. I couldn’t put it down. I was glued to the pages of Alex and Hestia's story, from the first page to the last. A must read Historical Romance. I can't wait to read the book 2 in the "Imperfect Lords" series, they are certainly going to be, imperfect, flawed but oh so lovable. A must read Historical Romance.
I received a complimentary copy.


Rating: 5
Heat rating: Hot
Reviewed by: AprilR

*** 3/5: Liked it, through and through

Addicted to the Duke is a bold and passionate adventure from England to the Mediterranean.

Addicted to the Duke

Recommended readers:

If you like historical romances and sailing the seas
If you like some serious passion
Here's my Rankings:

3/5 for characters
3/5 for plot
3.5/5 overall
REVIEW FROM BOOKS FOR HER:

Who can resist a sailing Duke? Only Alexander Bracken, Duke of Bedford, has a history of opium addiction and the past that he can't break away from. Still, he offers to help Lady Hestia Cary find her treasure hunting father in the Mediterranean. Bronwen Evans creates some bold character flaws in the Duke and another bold twist with the Duke's past. You'll find plenty of pent-up passion for both characters, as all the novels in the Disgraced Lords Series.

Available on ebook June 13: Addicted to the Duke

In this Regency romance with pirates, the pirates are all the villains, and the hero believes that he is equally villainous. Ten years previously, Alexander Bracken chose to test his courage and mettle in England’s wars with the Barbary pirates of the Mediterranean. Captured by the Turks, he was rescued two years later, leaving his captivity with a craving for opium and a profound shame at the acts he was forced to commit to survive. Two years later, he rescued Hestia Cary, the daughter of his rescuer, from nearly suffering the same fate at the same hands. Hestia worships her savior, her father can’t forget the degradation he rescued Alex from. But when Hestia is under threat yet again, she turns to the man who saved her before, setting them both on a course to either vindicate or repeat their earlier captivity, while being threatened on all sides. Within the small confines of his ship, Alex is forced to confront his feelings for Hestia, and his sense of unworthiness at her feelings for him. Even if he rescues her again, it won’t be enough for her father. But it might just be enough to finally save himself.

Verdict: This is a regency romance set on the high seas, making deft use of one of the standard regency tropes, the debauched rake who feels that he is unredeemable, feeling duty bound to rescue the untouched heroine who is too far above him, not in station but in virtue. But there’s a twist in this one. Alex has spent years fighting his craving for the opium he was addicted to while in captivity. And Hestia’s father, who rescued Alex, can’t forgive the man for surviving what society at that time considered a fate worse than death. It takes Hestia, who knows all and loves him anyway, to heal Alex’s heart. Regency romance readers looking for something just a bit different will love this one.