Although the characters are likable in Erica Ridley's latest in her 12 Dukes of Christmas series there is too much of a modern sensibility for me to feel as if it is a true Regency. Combined with the attitude about the sex which is graphic it makes 'Dukes, Actually' a bit of a fail for me. Fortunately it is short and the resolution is pleasant enough to get it a 3 stars.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

Another in the Dukes series. I enjoy these books as they are quirky, short and amusing. Lots of unique characters and of course lots of romance.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. I think I have read every one of this series. I don't really get into "christmas" romances but these are so different. A town called "Christmas", quirky unusual characters with some rather unique traits and skills. Each story is different except for the sweet lightness that is in all of them.

When a shy duke decides to reshape himself in a more confident version of himself, who’s better to help than his loved by everyone neighbor’s daughter...

Wow it has been close to a full year since I am waiting for this new installment in the Dukes of Christmas series.
What a sweet story it was, both heroes have set their path, him open himself to the other to find his perfect bride, she continue to manage her little environment and take care of her entourage.
Adam is good man whom hides himself from society’s lenses behind a stern aloof composition when in fact he does not know how to fight his own awkwardness and bashfulness.
So in order to change himself he has a special project, which leads him to agree to Carole’s offer.
And the closer they are together, the more it shapes his own requirements for his future duchess.
Carole has devoted her entire life to her father and his household, but her talent to manage everything had been put to use even outside her home as she is a caretaker in the soul.
Upon meeting Adam, she understands his needs and proposes her help to arrange what he has in mind.
Their journey together was a sweet tale with funny moment like the fortunes teller’s scene and the interactions between Adam’s butler and Carole’s Lady’s maid. A cute story of refusing to follow society’s expectations to create their own requisites.
4.5 stars

I was granted an advance copy by the author, and I preordered my own.
Here is my true and unbiased opinion.