I felt this story was well told and I was able to feel the emotions with the characters. There is drama, danger, and romance. Steamy tension! Worth the read with hopes of more on the way for these characters.

Denying the Duke (Lords and Ladies in Love #3) 
by Callie Hutton 

A definite buy book. I was really engrossed in the story. I went four stars for all of a sudden it stopped having action and went into the story with every day pace. That does not make it bad, I just wanted more action! I loved the plot, I enjoyed the characters and this author has a wonderful way of writing! I like the fact that I am totally compelled to keep reading each page and just enjoying it! I loved the way the characters seem so real but so weak or so strong at times. Life intrudes and makes you think of all that happened in historical times. This author has a wonderful way of imparting those times while keeping you entertained. I was given this book in return for an honest review. Anna Swedenmom

I have read a few books by Ms. Hutton and she does not disappoint in this novel. The plot was good and the characters are delightful. It deals with abusive relationships, physical and mental and how the characters are able to overcome them.
Lady Patience lives under the thumb of her father, afraid to speak her mind due to his abusiveness towards her and her mother. Four years ago, she fell in love with Alex, a second son. She could be herself with him. When it is announced she will marry his older brother, she is deeply troubled. Alex leaves for the army and any hopes of him rescuing her are dashed.
Alex returns from apprehending a traitor to assume his duties as the Duke of Bedford when his brother suddenly dies. He believes Patience is now widowed but is surprised to learn she did not marry his brother. He was ignored by his parents and his brother blamed everything on him. Alex has seen some terrible things and has nightmares from it. He assumes his roles, trying not to let his old feelings for Patience surface.
Patience's father needs her to marry Alex. However, she does not want to be controlled by any man and becomes more assertive. Alex wants Patience, but has gone about marriage the wrong way. Patience wants to make decisions for herself, something most women at this time would not do. They would give into their husbands and allow them to beat them. 
When Alex sees something done to Patience that angers him, he declares that she has accepted his proposal, which angers her. She marries him, but refuses to give him her martial rights until he courts her. Alex has his own issues, when a traitor escapes and seeks revenge on him. He keeps the details from Patience and she cannot understand why Alex is acting the way he is. Alex wants to protect her, but is actually pushing her away. The situation escalates and Alex makes choices that greatly impact his relationship with Patience? Can Alex learn to trust Patience and have an equal partnership in their marriage? Will Patience be able to forgive Alex and understand his motives?

Alex and Patience are so cute together in the beginning. Young love but crushed by reality. Four years of trying to forget their puppy love they are thrust back together by Patience's scheming father and Patience's reluctance to consummate their union until properly wood while Alex is focused on a new role in life and catching a bad guy. So much going on.

I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.  The story of Patience and Alex begins 4 years earlier, when they meet and fall in love.  She agrees to wait for him, since he is a second son with few prospects.  Unknown to them both, their fathers have arranged her marriage to Alex's older brother.  When this is announced Alex leaves home and his grandfather purchases him a commission in the military.  While gone, his father dies and then his brother, leaving the Dukedom to him.  He returns home and finds that Patience had not yet married his brother.  The book has suspense that is related to his military days that involves the kidnapping of Patience by a traitor.  They eventually have the HEA.  The book is well written and I would highly recommend it.