Amalie Howard's Taming of the Dukes series has been super fun since the beginning, and this installment was no different. It's a 10 Things I Hate About You retelling featuring a penniless Scottish duke and a prickly animal-loving earl's daughter. And if you know the plot of 10 Things, you know the story of this book: 2 sisters, a good suitor and a bad one, an offer to keep the older sister occupied, a change of heart, fake dating that turns real, etc.

Overall, this was a pretty solid adaptation (of an adaptation lol), and I enjoyed the twists Howard put on the characters, including Effie's animal shelter and Gage's background. Towards the end, the book gets a bit chaotic, with lots of different plot elements stuffed in (which has been the case for previous books in this series, too), but this was a quick, fun read that was packed full of nostalgia for an excellent teen movie.

3.75/5

The only bummer I have to say is for me for waiting so long to read this. It was a delightfully fun book to read and I appreciated the homages to 10 Things I Hate About You as well as the completely new spin that the author put on a well known story. It was the perfect balance of old and new and didn't feel forced but played so nicely. Both Gage and Effie stand as their own characters with real baggage and flaws, but such strong personalities I loved them both even when they made the worst choices. I really enjoyed the interwoven commentary on animal rights and sexual liberation of the time. The author clearly did the research and it added so much to the book.
This series just keeps getting better and I cannot wait for the next one!

The cheeky heroine seduces the inexperienced hero who is hiding his own secrets.

Lord Huntington’s request that Gage keep Effie occupied started out innocuous enough, until his true nature was revealed. He was truly icky. Viola didn’t present as very endearing herself and I was mostly annoyed by her.

Effie and Gage were very likable characters. They were nothing like you’d expect from their positions in society and clearly they surprised each other as well. I enjoyed their banter and interactions, but they didn’t stir any overwhelming sweeping feelings.

The overall tone and dialogue were more what you’d expect from modern times, but it didn’t bother me. This book was interesting enough, and would work well for lovers of light-hearted, steamy historical romance.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I'm learning to accept that Amalie Howard is going to be one of those authors that consistently writes books that scratch my itch.
This 10 Things I Hate About You inspired romance is full of Howard's signature wit, steam, and relatable characters. Highly recommend!

I found this book to be a bit slow. That’s not saying it wasn’t a ok read. There was moments of humorous banter that was enjoyable.
Is it a steamy historical romcom? Definitely it is!
The story was just a little over the top for me.
I am sure others may feel differently and thats fine. We all like what we like :)
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Wondrously complex romance!

What starts out as a simple retelling of The Taming of the Shrew quickly expands into a fascinating tale of justice and vengeance with a delightfully unexpected romance in addition to the searing hot dynamics between our two main characters, Gage and Evangeline.

Gage has been backed into a corner by Huntington, who requires that Gage woo Evangeline so that Huntington can pursue her younger sister, Viola. The history between Huntington and Gage's family is compelling and has a surprisingly satisfying conclusion, while Viola quietly finds her own happiness almost in spite of everyone around her trying to keep her where they feel she belongs.

I adored the focus on animal shelters in the Victorian era, and I loved the way Evangeline fearlessly stood up for her principles. The secrets and hidden motives do not overwhelm the romance, which is delightfully paced and heartwarming throughout. The HEA is wonderful and I highly recommend this story for anyone who enjoys historical romances. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

Regency “10 Things I Hate About You” - yes please! Amalie Howard writes great easy bodice rippers. They’re not too heavy with confusing language and perfect if you’re just wanting to get into them but typically read romcoms. I loved how this one was EXACTLY like 10 things.

Vale needs desperately to pay off his brother’s debt after his passing. The offer comes to distract Lady Evangeline while Lord Huntington courts her sister Viola - and what could go wrong? Well I’m sure you could guess!

This one has plenty of spice and I was so into it.

I was sold on a Regency romance crossed with 10 Things I Hate About You and I was not disappointed! Effie and Gage have such fun banter and this was a really cute romcom that was the perfect palate cleanser for me after reading a string of thrillers. Definitely recommended if you are looking for a romance that is fun and not too heavy.

This series, Taming of the Dukes, continues to deliver fun, hilarious installments. Howard's characters are brash, bold and dedicated to what they want in and out of the bedroom. The witty-banter and honesty was a delight to read between Effie and Gage. Let's talk about the Scottish hunk, he's a dreamy kilt wearing gentlemen.

Are we done, or are there more in this series? What a sexy story...

Thank you, Forever (Grand Central Publishing) | Forever

⭐️❤️Amalie Howard’s *The Worst Duke in London* is an utterly delightful and refreshing Regency romance that captured my heart from the very first chapter. With its witty banter, steamy romance, and a fierce, unconventional heroine, this book is a must-read for fans of the genre.❤️⭐️

The story follows Lucien, the newly-minted Duke of Warrington, a notorious rake labeled “the worst duke” due to his reckless past. Enter Lady Claudia, a strong-willed woman determined to defy society’s expectations and live life on her own terms. Their meeting sparks an irresistible push-and-pull dynamic that is brimming with chemistry, humor, and heartfelt moments.

Howard’s writing shines through her sharp dialogue and deeply emotional storytelling. One of my favorite quotes is when Lucien, known for being jaded and detached, realizes his growing feelings for Claudia:
*"You are not the storm I expected, but you are the one I needed. You are the calm that I never knew my soul was searching for."*
This line perfectly encapsulates the transformation of a man haunted by his past, finally finding peace in love.

Claudia is an absolute standout—fierce, independent, and unapologetically herself. Her resolve to challenge the rigid societal norms of the time is inspiring, and the way she holds her own against Lucien’s stubbornness makes for some delicious tension. One of her memorable moments is when she declares:
*"I will not be owned by any man. I am not a prize to be won; I am a woman who will not settle for anything less than love, respect, and partnership."*
It’s moments like these that highlight Claudia’s strength and make her such a relatable and empowering character.

Beyond the romance, Howard touches on themes of redemption, the complexities of family duty, and the courage to follow one’s heart, all while immersing the reader in the rich details of Regency London.

Overall, *The Worst Duke in London* is a perfect balance of passion, humor, and heart, wrapped up in a compelling love story that will leave you swooning. Amalie Howard has crafted a beautifully engaging tale that lingers long after the final page. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a smart, fiery romance!

5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from Forever - Grand Central Publishing - via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄 @ReadForeverPub @GrandCentralPub @HachetteUS
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THE WORST DUKE IN LONDON is a regency romance reminiscent of "10 things i hate about you" and the third installment in howard's TAMING OF THE DUKES series. i had already read and loved the first book in the series so i was so excited to read this one and it absolutely did not disappoint! howard's writing is funny, heartfelt, steamy, and it made me feel all the things. i was so obsessed with gage and effie—i couldn't put the book down until i knew what happened. i loved seeing their individual arcs unfold along with their love story, and i loved seeing the return of so many beloved characters from the series!! (and i really hope book 4 is going to be about briar and lushing.) thanks to netgalley and forever for the advanced copy!

The Worst Duke in London has everything you could possible want,,,witty banter, romance, cute animals, great supporting cast, and a main couple you really root for! If you are fans of this author, this one doesn't disappoint!
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for the ARC.

Evangeline (Effie) doesn’t fit in with the ton and doesn’t want to spend another season in London; however, her father will not allow the younger Viola a season unless Effie is her chaperone. Gage Croft, Duke of Vale, needs to clear the debts left by his deceased brother, so when Lord Huntington offers to waive the debt in exchange for getting Evangeline to London for six weeks, he agrees.

The Worst Duke in London is Howard’s third book in her delightful Taming of the Dukes series, with each book a retelling of a 90s romcom movie. This time around, Howard tackles 10 Things I Hate About You (aka Taming of the Shrew). It’s been a hot minute since I’ve seen the movie, so I can’t comment on how well it sticks to the original plot, but as a standalone romance, I found it completely enjoyable.

Effie is a strong woman who is not afraid of going after what she wants. Gage truly loves her banter, wit, and body. I loved watching Effie and Gage fall in love. They find so much joy and pleasure in one another. The author does a fabulous job getting the reader inside the heads of both MCs and portraying strong emotions. And even though we know the secret of the deal with Huntington is out there, it doesn’t hang over Gage’s every action and thought. We see him genuinely fall for Effie, and that is the strongest plot of the book.

One of the best things about this series is the Hellfire Kitties, a group of five women who are very forward-thinking (and acting) for the period. Their camaraderie while supporting one another with often blunt advice adds much to the tales. Effie also navigates her relationship with Viola. I struggled with Viola for at least half of the book. Sure, she’s the pampered younger sister, but she is also manipulative. She uses her tears and Effie’s emotions to get her way, and then puts down Effie or blows her off. Yet Effie’s one wish is for her sister’s happiness. Howard brings Viola around overtime, making her story engaging.

In the end, I enjoyed The Worst Duke in London as both a standalone romance and the continuation of a fun series. Next up should be Briar and bad boy Lushing… I cannot wait!

My Rating: B+

I’m a huge fan of Amalie Howard but was hesitant about reading The Worst Duke in London because I don’t normally pick books where the hero and heroine start with a lie between them. And it was what started their relationship and was what brought them together. It takes me longer to read books with this plot because it feels like I’m just dreading when she finds out and her heart is broken. Gage and Evangeline are such likable characters that you just want him to come clean before she finds out and is devastated.. Ms Howard handled it so well that it made the angst worth it and thankfully, Gage does know how to grovel and Effie was ultimately smart enough to realize what she wanted and it’s Gage. I loved the humor of their interactions but was a little removed from the historical perspective with the sex talk, especially between the lady friends. I know that there was plenty of sex going on in the 1800’s but I’m not sure the discussion amongst ladies enjoying tea would rival the discussions of drunk sorority girls at a rave.

This is a great series! The Worst Duke in London has the same humor and 90s romcom vibes as the others in the series. It also has cute animals, an important and sweet sibling bond, and a supportive friend group. Did I mention the spicy lessons? The source material is 10 Things I Hate about You. You can see some of those scenes mirrored in the book, but it is so much more.

I love reading the notes at the end of historical romances. Amalie delivered and shared her research on animal advocacy and sexual liberation. It made me love the story even more.

I did think there were sections that dragged and overall think it could have been shorter.

Thanks you to Forever and NetGalley for this eARC!

The Worst Duke in London, the third book in the Taming of the Duke series by Amalie Howard and is described as a mash up between Bridgerton and the classic 90s movie 10 Things I Hate About You, aka Shakespeare’s Taming of the Shrew. And I have to I agree!

Lady Evangeline Raine is too opinionated for the ton in her first season. She runs a foul of one of the leading gentlemen resulting in the unflattering nickname of lady ghastly and her subsequent unsuccessful seasons… she’s done with London, and she has settled herself for a life of spinsterhood with her animal sanctuary in the country.

Too bad everyone seems to be wanting to get her back to London for this year season! Her sister can’t go if she doesn’t go back, her arch nemesis wants her back there so that he can court her sister!!! Her friends want her there for her companionship, and lastly, the destitute Duke, Gage Croft needs her to go so that he can pay off a debt!

Gage and Effie meet and grow their relationship under false pretenses, but from the moment, these two characters are in the space together the sparks fly!!! I loved the banter and camaraderie develops between these characters. Gage definitely starts his interactions with Effie for his own benefit, but in the end she makes her own bargain as well…

A relationship built from secrets and falsehoods become real?

The series has been a lot of fun and Effie’s bad attitude set aside, this book is no different! I had a lot of fun with the main character romance, but the side characters and friends and family were just as entertaining! I can’t wait for the next book for the last Hellfire Kitty to succumb to her own HEA!

This book leans more heavily on the 10 Things I Hate About You version of the Taming of the Shrew, which is fine for us 90s girlies but know that you are looking at an interpretation of an interpretation.

The book had genuinely funny banter which I enjoyed although occasionally took me out of the period. Likewise it was spicier than I expected which again I don’t mind, but the speed of it did feel unearned.

All in all if you enjoying steamy regency romance that never skims too deeply below the surface, it’s not bad. I enjoyed the historical research related to the founding of the RSPCA

The Worst Duke in London

Another adorable installment in the Hellfire Kitties brigade! A delightful romance adventure with fun and feisty banter, amazing supportive friend group, plenty of spice and a naughty kitties 🐱

Check this one out for:
- 10 things I hate about you vibes
- adorable, mischievous animals
- 🌶️ positive FMC vibes
- A Scotsman Duke

Thank you to Forever for the ARC! My thoughts are my own.

Lady Evangeline Raine has resigned herself to being a spinster, SHe is not interested in marriage, and only cares about animals, and dedicating her time to providing shelter and sanctuary to strays and abuse animals.

Her younger sister Viola on the other hand wants to be married and be a wife and the only way to do that is be in London for the season. Their father will only allow Viola to do so if Evangeline goes with her and puts in an effort to find a match.

In comes Duke Gage Croft, he has inherited his family's estate in tremendous debt after both his father and brother gambled and drank away their fortune, died, and left Gage to pick up the pieces. He is given a deal with a creditor, his debt will be forgiven if he can seduce Evangeline into going to London for the Season so that the creditor can court Viola.

Both Evangeline and Gage are not what the other expects, and they somehow end up in an agreement to be lovers. They both quickly fall into a relationship of mutual respect, genuine friendship, and unexpected passion. Real feelings follow suit but the secrets Gage has been keeping may come back to haunt what could be a future neither of them ever expected to have.

As with the other books in this series, I absolutely loved this one. Amalie has such a way of writing Historical Romance so it feels sexy and flirty, feminist, witty, and unputdownable. It really is a master class. Her heroines are always people I aspire to be, and her heros are always so swoon worthy, and a perfect balance to the fireines of the heroine. The banter is always on point and entertaining, the romance and chemistry palatable, and the love and tenderness real.

10 Things I hate about you meets Bridgerton.

This has everything and more that you could want. Cute animals, check; strong female friendships, check. Sexy Party, Check. Wallflower, Check. EVERYTHING YOU NEED IN ONE HISTORICAL ROMANCE. BRIDGERTON GIRLIES. RUN.

-Book 3 in Taming the Dukes Series
-He falls First
-Grand Gesture
-Animals

Arc received from the publisher; all thoughts and opinions are my own.