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Duke for the Summer
A former punk-rock skater kid and a bookish recluse get stuck on an island together...
Nate Schafer has always wanted to feel special—but suddenly inheriting a castle in a tiny town in a foreign country wasn’t exactly what he had in mind. But it’ll be fine. He just has to figure out how to be a duke. And maybe learn Italian. Oh, and try to tiptoe around the castle’s caretaker, who is very hot, very standoffish, and definitely not interested. Easy, right?
Jacopo Brunetti just wants to get off the island where he grew up and start a new life. But the new duke is getting in the way of his plans. And getting in the way in general. And why can’t Jacopo stop thinking about him? All he has to do is keep it together for three months, but with Nate around every corner, lasting out the summer is going to be harder than he thought.
Duke for the Summer is a contemporary m/m romance with plenty of laughs, some tears, first times, self-acceptance, a long, steamy Italian summer, and of course, a HEA.
Nate Schafer has always wanted to feel special—but suddenly inheriting a castle in a tiny town in a foreign country wasn’t exactly what he had in mind. But it’ll be fine. He just has to figure out how to be a duke. And maybe learn Italian. Oh, and try to tiptoe around the castle’s caretaker, who is very hot, very standoffish, and definitely not interested. Easy, right?
Jacopo Brunetti just wants to get off the island where he grew up and start a new life. But the new duke is getting in the way of his plans. And getting in the way in general. And why can’t Jacopo stop thinking about him? All he has to do is keep it together for three months, but with Nate around every corner, lasting out the summer is going to be harder than he thought.
Duke for the Summer is a contemporary m/m romance with plenty of laughs, some tears, first times, self-acceptance, a long, steamy Italian summer, and of course, a HEA.
- GenresM M RomanceRomanceLGBT
293 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 19, 2024
8 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
May 22, 2024
You'd never know that Emily Spady published her first book (which is now on my TBR list) in October 2023. Duke for the Summer, her second novel, is polished, well written, and genuine.
The premise of the story (30-year-old average American guy is the last heir to an Italian duke) is the stuff of fairy tales, but this is not a lighthearted story, which is not to say it doesn't have humorous moments because it does.
Nate's parents and his sister Thea are a hoot, and Nate's interactions with Jacopo's family are endearing. He becomes an expert tomato crusher, that's for sure.
His relationship with Jacopo, however, is complicated and lends the story an air of melancholy. There is a strong attraction between the men, but Jacopo, closeted, fearful, and insecure, hides in shadows. He's most comfortable alone, with his books and cats.
As a caretaker of the castle, Jacopo has been living in inertia. His father is a vile homophobe, and his mother, once his best friend, is not much better.
Jacopo craves Nate's touch. When they give in to their attraction, their connection is like a live wire.
I loved the slow burn and sensuality. I'm getting tired of smut for smut's sake, so this story was a breath of fresh air in that regard.
Unfortunately, when Jacopo trusts Nate with his deepest secret (which is a doozy), Nate is drunk and reacts badly.
Look, I'm Polish. Vodka is like mother's milk to me. But the MCs, who are 30 and 35, were drunk half the time, and I don't mean tipsy but blackout-vomit-verge-of-death kind of drunk. And when they weren't drunk, they were exhausted (probably from drinking too much).
Excessive alcohol consumption isn't sexy - neither is smoking, but that didn'r stop Jacopo from smoking on practically every page. All the substance abuse was distracting and started to grate on my nerves.
The ending is closer to a HFN than a HEA, with certain plot points left unresolved. I don't need everything tied up in a pretty ribbon, but what about the castle?
I, for one, desperately need a follow-up.
The premise of the story (30-year-old average American guy is the last heir to an Italian duke) is the stuff of fairy tales, but this is not a lighthearted story, which is not to say it doesn't have humorous moments because it does.
Nate's parents and his sister Thea are a hoot, and Nate's interactions with Jacopo's family are endearing. He becomes an expert tomato crusher, that's for sure.
His relationship with Jacopo, however, is complicated and lends the story an air of melancholy. There is a strong attraction between the men, but Jacopo, closeted, fearful, and insecure, hides in shadows. He's most comfortable alone, with his books and cats.
As a caretaker of the castle, Jacopo has been living in inertia. His father is a vile homophobe, and his mother, once his best friend, is not much better.
Jacopo craves Nate's touch. When they give in to their attraction, their connection is like a live wire.
I loved the slow burn and sensuality. I'm getting tired of smut for smut's sake, so this story was a breath of fresh air in that regard.
Unfortunately, when Jacopo trusts Nate with his deepest secret (which is a doozy), Nate is drunk and reacts badly.
Look, I'm Polish. Vodka is like mother's milk to me. But the MCs, who are 30 and 35, were drunk half the time, and I don't mean tipsy but blackout-vomit-verge-of-death kind of drunk. And when they weren't drunk, they were exhausted (probably from drinking too much).
Excessive alcohol consumption isn't sexy - neither is smoking, but that didn'r stop Jacopo from smoking on practically every page. All the substance abuse was distracting and started to grate on my nerves.
The ending is closer to a HFN than a HEA, with certain plot points left unresolved. I don't need everything tied up in a pretty ribbon, but what about the castle?
I, for one, desperately need a follow-up.
July 18, 2024
2 1/2 -3 stars
Although I did enjoy the story, it really didn’t pull me in. Both MC’s were likeable, but again, It was just an okay read for me.
Although I did enjoy the story, it really didn’t pull me in. Both MC’s were likeable, but again, It was just an okay read for me.
June 23, 2024
Nothing too deep, a wobbly start, but fun and sweet, also well done on the sentence/paragraph/chapter level, meaning I could enjoy it rather than throwing my reader at the wall.
May 9, 2024
This was such a beautiful and enjoyable read! I loved that it is paced just right, with things neither going too fast nor way too slow. Nate and Jacopo are well-written characters who fortunately found their way to each other before I had to yell at them about belonging together.
Thank you for my advance copy, this was certainly a good one.
Thank you for my advance copy, this was certainly a good one.
May 4, 2025
This is a sweet, wholesome, new adult romance set in a castle on a beautiful Italian island.
Jacopo, a prickly and bookish Italian man arrives in Oregon to let farm boy Nate know he is the long lost heir to a fortune and Castle that Jacopo oversees. In order to officially inherit the castle, Nate must first live in it for at least 3 months, so off they set for Italy where they awkwardly live around each other trying to suppress the attraction they feel.
I loved both boys. It's kind of a grumpy/sunshine dynamic, with Nate, being the sunshine and more experienced of the two. Jacopo is an introvert with some self esteem issues and a chip on his shoulder, but he takes good care of Nate and watching the two become close was so heartwarming. I will definitely be checking out more of Emily's books.
Jacopo, a prickly and bookish Italian man arrives in Oregon to let farm boy Nate know he is the long lost heir to a fortune and Castle that Jacopo oversees. In order to officially inherit the castle, Nate must first live in it for at least 3 months, so off they set for Italy where they awkwardly live around each other trying to suppress the attraction they feel.
I loved both boys. It's kind of a grumpy/sunshine dynamic, with Nate, being the sunshine and more experienced of the two. Jacopo is an introvert with some self esteem issues and a chip on his shoulder, but he takes good care of Nate and watching the two become close was so heartwarming. I will definitely be checking out more of Emily's books.
October 26, 2024
A rather confusing start for the couple turns into a hot, wonderful island summer. Stuck together (more or less) in an old Roman castle surrounded by family and island life. Add an inherited dukedom, a disaster proned American and a closed off Italian man and you have the backdrop for Nate and Jackopo. Their story is an epic lovestory with ups and downs, some steam (this is not a very spicy book except it still feels like it) and a lot feelings.. The story is so much more than a summer read. The character development for both MCs are very well done and there's some twists I didn't see coming. I'm glad I had tissues ready, because I did need them.
The book is lovely and I know I'll reread it at one point because this is a book that will stay on my mind for a long time. I received an advanced copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The book is lovely and I know I'll reread it at one point because this is a book that will stay on my mind for a long time. I received an advanced copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 1, 2024
I loved this book! It takes the romance genre into unusual emotional and descriptive depths, and it's really funny about cultural differences, family dynamics, and all of the normal but neurotic ways we act. The writer somehow makes it plausible that a skater dude from Eugene, Oregon could find out that he's the genetic heir to Italian royalty via his mysterious, deadbeat (and dead) father. What follows is a part magical, weird, infatuated and self-destructive drama of the highest sort. The main characters are wonderful! A great pleasure to read!
May 26, 2024
Nate and Jacopo's story is so worth the reading .. Why?! Because it's not just about two gays -which was a part of the reasons why I started reading this book- but more like about two people who were trying to figure out themselves and searching for that one moment where everything says "You're worthy of happiness. You're deserving of love." .. While reading about them, you may see parts of yourself in Nate's insecurities or in Jacopo's fear and regrets .. Their journey was a nice ride to have. I usually don't write reviews on books I read even if I like them a lot, but this one - that I got recommended by my bookish best friend - has made me break my rule, and that's how good this book is. Hell! They made me read about them in a week which is a good sign.
July 20, 2024
Nate and Jacopo's story was a pleasant surprise. Nate is a shy guy whose life takes a turn when Jacopo shows up on his doorstep and reveals the fact of his family history.
Fun read with a lot of emotions and determination that keeps you turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Fun read with a lot of emotions and determination that keeps you turning the pages.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2024
Highly recommend … review to come. Much more engaging and layered than the description implies.
Book review from Smexy Books:
This book took me by surprise, in the best way. Based on the description, I had thought it was going to be a ring-around-the-tropes m/m romcom with characters that were somewhat complex but had problems that were easily resolvable. But I am a sucker for novels where an MC pulls a geographic, so I plowed ahead. Imagine my surprise to find two flawed, human characters – not archetypes, not stereotypes – along with real, not ideal, settings, and well written descriptions and dialogue to go along with them, not to mention plenty of earnest, earnest heat.
In Duke for the Summer, Nate, who lives in Eugene, Oregon and wishes to be special in some way to someone, learns he is next in line to inherit a ducal estate and its assets on an island off the coast of Italy. Nate works in a warehouse in a job he hates and focuses on keeping in shape, because it is the only aspect of his life he feels in control of. Jacopo, who is the most recent in a long line of ducal caretakers, comes to Oregon to fetch Nate, because in order to inherit, Nate must spend three months in residence in the ducal castle. Jacopo is in the closet and trying to escape many constraints: the island, his family, and the way he feels different from almost everyone he knows. Everything about him seems trapped, until his relationship with Nate begins.
The build-up to Nate and Jacopo’s relationship is filled with stutters and false starts. Nate becomes injured and must spend time in Jacopo’s rooms because they are on the ground level. While this might seem like yet another trope, it allows Nate to understand Jacopo better. Jacopo has been translating the diaries and papers of past dukes and duchesses, and the two bond over the scandals of centuries past. Some might feel the development of the love story to be too slow. Normally I would agree, but the descriptions of the places, the food, and the dialogue kept me going until the fire between Nate and Jacopo struck and then I was one hundred percent committed.
My only real beef with this book was the POV. We alternate between Nate’s and Jacopo’s point of view – pretty traditional for a romance these days. With Nate, we get a pretty much soul-bared, straight from the hip narrative. A few details are elusive. A past boyfriend who was a jerk only gets cursory treatment. But for the most part, we are hearing about he is feeling and thinking the whole time. Jacopo, on the other hand, has a secret. It is alluded to partway through, and then it becomes a focus of Jacopo’s thoughts closer to the end. So, we know he is holding back something, and even though we have his point of view, we don’t really, because for narrative purposes, he is hiding it from us as well. I get it, I get it. It’s for the narrative. But perhaps basing the whole book on Nate’s point of view would have avoided this authorial sleight of hand.
Book review from Smexy Books:
This book took me by surprise, in the best way. Based on the description, I had thought it was going to be a ring-around-the-tropes m/m romcom with characters that were somewhat complex but had problems that were easily resolvable. But I am a sucker for novels where an MC pulls a geographic, so I plowed ahead. Imagine my surprise to find two flawed, human characters – not archetypes, not stereotypes – along with real, not ideal, settings, and well written descriptions and dialogue to go along with them, not to mention plenty of earnest, earnest heat.
In Duke for the Summer, Nate, who lives in Eugene, Oregon and wishes to be special in some way to someone, learns he is next in line to inherit a ducal estate and its assets on an island off the coast of Italy. Nate works in a warehouse in a job he hates and focuses on keeping in shape, because it is the only aspect of his life he feels in control of. Jacopo, who is the most recent in a long line of ducal caretakers, comes to Oregon to fetch Nate, because in order to inherit, Nate must spend three months in residence in the ducal castle. Jacopo is in the closet and trying to escape many constraints: the island, his family, and the way he feels different from almost everyone he knows. Everything about him seems trapped, until his relationship with Nate begins.
The build-up to Nate and Jacopo’s relationship is filled with stutters and false starts. Nate becomes injured and must spend time in Jacopo’s rooms because they are on the ground level. While this might seem like yet another trope, it allows Nate to understand Jacopo better. Jacopo has been translating the diaries and papers of past dukes and duchesses, and the two bond over the scandals of centuries past. Some might feel the development of the love story to be too slow. Normally I would agree, but the descriptions of the places, the food, and the dialogue kept me going until the fire between Nate and Jacopo struck and then I was one hundred percent committed.
My only real beef with this book was the POV. We alternate between Nate’s and Jacopo’s point of view – pretty traditional for a romance these days. With Nate, we get a pretty much soul-bared, straight from the hip narrative. A few details are elusive. A past boyfriend who was a jerk only gets cursory treatment. But for the most part, we are hearing about he is feeling and thinking the whole time. Jacopo, on the other hand, has a secret. It is alluded to partway through, and then it becomes a focus of Jacopo’s thoughts closer to the end. So, we know he is holding back something, and even though we have his point of view, we don’t really, because for narrative purposes, he is hiding it from us as well. I get it, I get it. It’s for the narrative. But perhaps basing the whole book on Nate’s point of view would have avoided this authorial sleight of hand.
May 24, 2024
WHAT A COLOSSAL DISAPPOINTMENT
This is one of those books that will make you love the characters so much but lead you on endlessly until the plot is stretched so thin and brittle and wrung so dry that everything you initially really enjoyed about it at first will be zapped to unpalatable dust even before the midway point.
This is one of those authors who just loves sadistically dragging readers along, endlessly baiting them only to kick you in the face after you toiled for hundreds of godforsakenly boring pages just to reach the much-awaited (and much deserved) happy ending but of course it isn’t there—not without that final insult to injury first. Not my favourite type of author, no matter how talented and “good at describing things” they may be.
I know there are masochist readers who get their kicks out of being treated this inconsiderately because they thrive on being made to feel miserable, but er, no, I’m not one of them. Painfully contrived MM romance that only emotionally manipulates you to read to the end without really caring whether you get any amount of gratification or joy while doing so, is not and never will be my cuppa, so…
No, thanks. I’ll pass. I don’t hate myself enough to put myself through this insulting ploy any longer. (I kind of regret forcing myself to even read this while I was still sick and not passing this up earlier; I would have dropped it sooner if I hadn’t committed to reviewing an ARC of this on Booksprout. I read MM romance to be happy, not to be played. 🤦🏻) The tragedy is this could have been so good if the author cared more about keeping the story organic rather than just ego tripping on the readers.
This is one of those books that will make you love the characters so much but lead you on endlessly until the plot is stretched so thin and brittle and wrung so dry that everything you initially really enjoyed about it at first will be zapped to unpalatable dust even before the midway point.
This is one of those authors who just loves sadistically dragging readers along, endlessly baiting them only to kick you in the face after you toiled for hundreds of godforsakenly boring pages just to reach the much-awaited (and much deserved) happy ending but of course it isn’t there—not without that final insult to injury first. Not my favourite type of author, no matter how talented and “good at describing things” they may be.
I know there are masochist readers who get their kicks out of being treated this inconsiderately because they thrive on being made to feel miserable, but er, no, I’m not one of them. Painfully contrived MM romance that only emotionally manipulates you to read to the end without really caring whether you get any amount of gratification or joy while doing so, is not and never will be my cuppa, so…
No, thanks. I’ll pass. I don’t hate myself enough to put myself through this insulting ploy any longer. (I kind of regret forcing myself to even read this while I was still sick and not passing this up earlier; I would have dropped it sooner if I hadn’t committed to reviewing an ARC of this on Booksprout. I read MM romance to be happy, not to be played. 🤦🏻) The tragedy is this could have been so good if the author cared more about keeping the story organic rather than just ego tripping on the readers.
May 19, 2024
“You’re not drawing me, are you?”
“Yeah. I’m drawing you like one of my Italian boys.”
❤️This is the first book I’ve read by Emily Spady, and as far as I know, this is only her second book, so there is a lot to look forward to. Duke for the Summer really took me by surprise. I thought by the cover and blurb, that this book would be an easy, low angst and cheesy read. So that’s what I had prepared myself for. I had not prepared myself to be crying, or laughing out loud as much as I did. I was really pleasantly surprised with the turn this book took after our two guys arrived in Italy.
🩷I absolutely adored Jacopo. He had a bit of a grump vibe over him, and that’s my weakness. He’s grumpy, he loves to read, he loves cats and he loves plants, and he loves taking care of Nate. What’s not to love about him? oh, and he can cook.
🧡Nate was adorable as well. A little clumsy, a bit insecure and very funny. I loved all of the jokes and pop culture references in the book. Like that’s when I decided “I love this book“, when I saw the Beauty and the Beast reference. I just can’t help it. AND Nate has great taste in music.
💛Together they’re a little messy, a bit awkward, and a lot of bittersweet as the summer comes to an end… and that’s when the book yells PLOT TWIST. I did not see that coming, and I was crying like a baby, smiling like a fool, I was furious with Jacopo’s parents. I was feeling all the things. It was so beautifully authentic and deep. This is a read I wont forget anytime soon.
💜An amazing book about finding yourself, about love, about doing the things that scares you and about family
🌈MM Romance
☀️Summer Fling
☯️Opposites Attracts
💕Forced Proximity
❤️🔥First Times & Spice
🐈⬛Black Cat x Golden Retriever
I was so lucky to receive this ARC to review with my honest opinion.
Read the full review on my blog here.
May 17, 2024
Tags: captivating, heartwarming, eloquent writing, page-turner, easy-to-read, charming, opposite attracts, from poor to richness, romantic, entertaining, steamy, no cliffhangers.
This novel is not another simple romance set in the world of the carefree, rich, and famous. Instead, Emily Spady delivered a sparkling, dynamic, and captivating story of two deeply insecure guys, far from being famous or carefree. They are thrown together by the coincidence of fate when Nate inherits a fortune in Italy from a relative he did not know existed. Jacopo is a carer for his estate, with a traditional Italian family, and is deep in the closet. Following the gradual development of feelings, trust, and acceptance was a heartwarming and, at times, moving experience.
The author created a magical, inspiring, and uplifting story from a seemingly simple and recycled storyline, typical for romance novels. I was captivated by the masterful writing and use of words, which created a vibrant and vivid insight into Jacopo and Nate's emotions, fears, dilemmas, and thinking that enabled a connecting and deep understanding of their feelings and decisions. The poetic, profound yet witty narrative, along with sparkling dynamics among the MCs, transforms the story into a compelling and riveting reading experience that touches and resonates on a deep emotional level.
Though a work of fiction, it is rooted in reality when addressing difficult real-life situations with tenderness, sensitivity, and a touch of humor. It is an enchanting, entertaining, charming, deeply emotional, and touching read.
What not to expect: dark drama, angst and suspense, complex and controversial topics, and characters.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book. This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts.
This novel is not another simple romance set in the world of the carefree, rich, and famous. Instead, Emily Spady delivered a sparkling, dynamic, and captivating story of two deeply insecure guys, far from being famous or carefree. They are thrown together by the coincidence of fate when Nate inherits a fortune in Italy from a relative he did not know existed. Jacopo is a carer for his estate, with a traditional Italian family, and is deep in the closet. Following the gradual development of feelings, trust, and acceptance was a heartwarming and, at times, moving experience.
The author created a magical, inspiring, and uplifting story from a seemingly simple and recycled storyline, typical for romance novels. I was captivated by the masterful writing and use of words, which created a vibrant and vivid insight into Jacopo and Nate's emotions, fears, dilemmas, and thinking that enabled a connecting and deep understanding of their feelings and decisions. The poetic, profound yet witty narrative, along with sparkling dynamics among the MCs, transforms the story into a compelling and riveting reading experience that touches and resonates on a deep emotional level.
Though a work of fiction, it is rooted in reality when addressing difficult real-life situations with tenderness, sensitivity, and a touch of humor. It is an enchanting, entertaining, charming, deeply emotional, and touching read.
What not to expect: dark drama, angst and suspense, complex and controversial topics, and characters.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book. This review is an independent and genuine reflection of my thoughts.
May 22, 2024
Summer love story
I thoroughly enjoyed The Hot Mess Prince, a really entertaining debut novel. While the main characters in that were boss/employee throughout the book, Nate and Jacopo are strangers when circumstances throw them together and they spend all summer together, with a sort of but not really boss/employee relationship.
I liked the whole concept of Nate inheriting a castle, as he was the last in line of a family that he knew nothing about. The island and the castle and the people were completely fascinating. Emily's descriptions of places are so good, I want to visit the castle, and the secret place on the island that everyone knows about but nobody goes to.
Both men are insecure and don't feel worthy of love but in each other, they find a connection and a love that could be everything they secretly want but don't think they'll ever be able to have. That connection was hot and steamy once they gave in to their attraction, but they were also very sweet together. Emily didn't make it easy for them and there were times when I wanted to bang their heads together, but I was glad they managed to get out of their own way finally.
I wasn't very keen on the big reveal towards the end because how the two people involved handled it made no sense at all and the time delay on both sides was ridiculous.
Overall, I enjoyed it, especially all the sisters' appearances, but I would have liked the epilogue to be a little further in the future as it was more like a HFN rather than a HEA. I also wanted to know what they did with the castle, restoring it, working on the library, opening it to the public? That would have been nice to see.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Hot Mess Prince, a really entertaining debut novel. While the main characters in that were boss/employee throughout the book, Nate and Jacopo are strangers when circumstances throw them together and they spend all summer together, with a sort of but not really boss/employee relationship.
I liked the whole concept of Nate inheriting a castle, as he was the last in line of a family that he knew nothing about. The island and the castle and the people were completely fascinating. Emily's descriptions of places are so good, I want to visit the castle, and the secret place on the island that everyone knows about but nobody goes to.
Both men are insecure and don't feel worthy of love but in each other, they find a connection and a love that could be everything they secretly want but don't think they'll ever be able to have. That connection was hot and steamy once they gave in to their attraction, but they were also very sweet together. Emily didn't make it easy for them and there were times when I wanted to bang their heads together, but I was glad they managed to get out of their own way finally.
I wasn't very keen on the big reveal towards the end because how the two people involved handled it made no sense at all and the time delay on both sides was ridiculous.
Overall, I enjoyed it, especially all the sisters' appearances, but I would have liked the epilogue to be a little further in the future as it was more like a HFN rather than a HEA. I also wanted to know what they did with the castle, restoring it, working on the library, opening it to the public? That would have been nice to see.
May 22, 2024
🏰DUKE FOR THE SUMMER by @emilyspadybooks
“Even before he’d fallen, he’d known it was inevitable.”
————————————
🏰age gap
🏰forced proximity
🏰pining
————————————
🦦Labyrinth’s rating
⭐5
💧 1
🔥 2
I loved this book. It was so…Italian, and as an Italian, trust me, it was amazing. This book felt like summer. The vibes were immaculate, even with the thunderstorm outside, I felt on a small Sicilian island along with Jacopo and Nate. As far as I am aware, the traditions and small folklore pieces scattered throughout the book are pretty accurate and the Italian is quite correct (there are a few things I would have written a bit differently, but don’t mind me, I’m a language student, I can’t turn it off). It was so fun to see Jacopo swear in Italian, especially at a very specific point (tho it’s really offensive to most and I can assure you that even non-religious kids of religious families don’t go thoiring that around, me being one of them, but it brought a nice long loud laugh out of me because I did not expect that). The plot is so well developed, it feels like the plot of a fairy tale or at least of a Princess diaries spin off or something, and the characters are so nice and well write, and I’m not talking only about the protagonists, but overall all of them are very well written (especially Gracie and Thea, they're a bomb duo, I kinda wanted to read more about them!)
(Also, hello Dublin, my beloved city, it was nice meeting you here!)
I received an ARC copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
————————————
“Why wouldn’t we be? Come on, Jacopo. Wash your face and put on a nice shirt and let’s go get your duke.”
“Even before he’d fallen, he’d known it was inevitable.”
————————————
🏰age gap
🏰forced proximity
🏰pining
————————————
🦦Labyrinth’s rating
⭐5
💧 1
🔥 2
I loved this book. It was so…Italian, and as an Italian, trust me, it was amazing. This book felt like summer. The vibes were immaculate, even with the thunderstorm outside, I felt on a small Sicilian island along with Jacopo and Nate. As far as I am aware, the traditions and small folklore pieces scattered throughout the book are pretty accurate and the Italian is quite correct (there are a few things I would have written a bit differently, but don’t mind me, I’m a language student, I can’t turn it off). It was so fun to see Jacopo swear in Italian, especially at a very specific point (tho it’s really offensive to most and I can assure you that even non-religious kids of religious families don’t go thoiring that around, me being one of them, but it brought a nice long loud laugh out of me because I did not expect that). The plot is so well developed, it feels like the plot of a fairy tale or at least of a Princess diaries spin off or something, and the characters are so nice and well write, and I’m not talking only about the protagonists, but overall all of them are very well written (especially Gracie and Thea, they're a bomb duo, I kinda wanted to read more about them!)
(Also, hello Dublin, my beloved city, it was nice meeting you here!)
I received an ARC copy from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
————————————
“Why wouldn’t we be? Come on, Jacopo. Wash your face and put on a nice shirt and let’s go get your duke.”
May 6, 2024
4 stars
This was my first book from Emily Spady and I loved it, it was such a beautiful story.
Nate, 30 years old, lives in Oregon and works at a warehouse; he has very low self esteem due to the shitty men he dated and also to the fact that he never knew his father. People, in Nate's life, never stay, never choose him.
Apparently his absent father was the bastard heir of an Italian duke and Nate inherited a castle on a little island near Sicily.
Jacopo, 30 years old, is the son of the last caretaker of the castle: he's not close to his family, he lived away until his father's declining health forced him to go back to the island.
Nate and Jacopo have some things in common: both of them think they're not good enough, they don't completely fit into their families, both of them are very lonely.
The sex scenes are absolutely beautiful, there were so many emotions, so much tenderness and intimacy, I truly loved them.
There are multiple layers of this story and I'm not going to spoil anything, but it's definitely worth reading.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Jacopo and Nate (especially Nate) drink too much, way too much. In almost every scene there was alcohol involved.
The epilogue was a little unsatisfying: it's set only two months after the end and I felt like too many things were rushed.
Overall it was a very nice story and, as Italian myself, I can say that the author did a very good job representing food, culture and setting.
Recommended
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
This was my first book from Emily Spady and I loved it, it was such a beautiful story.
Nate, 30 years old, lives in Oregon and works at a warehouse; he has very low self esteem due to the shitty men he dated and also to the fact that he never knew his father. People, in Nate's life, never stay, never choose him.
Apparently his absent father was the bastard heir of an Italian duke and Nate inherited a castle on a little island near Sicily.
Jacopo, 30 years old, is the son of the last caretaker of the castle: he's not close to his family, he lived away until his father's declining health forced him to go back to the island.
Nate and Jacopo have some things in common: both of them think they're not good enough, they don't completely fit into their families, both of them are very lonely.
The sex scenes are absolutely beautiful, there were so many emotions, so much tenderness and intimacy, I truly loved them.
There are multiple layers of this story and I'm not going to spoil anything, but it's definitely worth reading.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
Jacopo and Nate (especially Nate) drink too much, way too much. In almost every scene there was alcohol involved.
The epilogue was a little unsatisfying: it's set only two months after the end and I felt like too many things were rushed.
Overall it was a very nice story and, as Italian myself, I can say that the author did a very good job representing food, culture and setting.
Recommended
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
May 11, 2024
This is going to be a very difficult review to write, as I honestly loved three quarters of it. I downloaded just because it looked silly and fun, and was surprised and delighted to discover it included fantastic writing and unexpected depth. I thought it was going to be an easy five stars all the way.
Unfortunately I really didn't like the twist at the end, and I really HATED how the MC dealt with it, or didn't deal with it. I understand it's a shock, and you might need a few days to process. Maybe a few weeks to make arrangements. Even a couple months would make sense if you're an emotionally stunted jerk with all the self-awareness of a cauliflower, which he is. But this dude chose to do absolutely nothing for THREE FREAKING YEARS, and that is absolutely unacceptable. It honestly ruined the book and the character for me, I hated it so much.
It's a real shame because I honestly thought I’d found a new favourite author, but I just can't get past the magnitude of douchebaggery shown by the MC. To add insult to injury, they destroyed the MC’s character and made me hate him for nothing, as the whole situation was far too easily resolved and swept under the carpet, in a very unrealistic and borderline offensive way. I hated it even more because I liked it so much, if that makes sense. The author is clearly extremely talented, but this is a massive misstep for me.
Unfortunately I really didn't like the twist at the end, and I really HATED how the MC dealt with it, or didn't deal with it. I understand it's a shock, and you might need a few days to process. Maybe a few weeks to make arrangements. Even a couple months would make sense if you're an emotionally stunted jerk with all the self-awareness of a cauliflower, which he is. But this dude chose to do absolutely nothing for THREE FREAKING YEARS, and that is absolutely unacceptable. It honestly ruined the book and the character for me, I hated it so much.
It's a real shame because I honestly thought I’d found a new favourite author, but I just can't get past the magnitude of douchebaggery shown by the MC. To add insult to injury, they destroyed the MC’s character and made me hate him for nothing, as the whole situation was far too easily resolved and swept under the carpet, in a very unrealistic and borderline offensive way. I hated it even more because I liked it so much, if that makes sense. The author is clearly extremely talented, but this is a massive misstep for me.
May 12, 2024
Really well done & a sweet couple👬🌅
4.5🌟stars
I found the plot of Emily Spady's MM romance novel fun, well-written and all that gorgeous southern Italian setting was a great backdrop. Nate, the American regular guy warehouse worker who suddenly finds himself heir to an Italian dukedom, wealth and a castle, struck me as the extrovert, more easygoing of the two leads and I liked his character. But Jacopo, the castle caretaker who feels awkward and outcast from his family, got most of my sympathy because he did not have the best family situation and had a lot of insecurities to overcome. Together they made for a smashing romance with all the feels. And as to the heat level, I liked that it was mostly mild heat with some steamy bits thrown in, more concentrated on them building an emotional connection. And Jacopo's big secret and how it panned out was a great bonus.
I've got to say I was impressed and, though the whole inheriting a foreign dukedom was a fantasy type development, the range of Jacopo's family's reaction to his romance with the new duke seemed realistic. I did not want to put this one down!
I can definitely see myself reading more by this author.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
4.5🌟stars
I found the plot of Emily Spady's MM romance novel fun, well-written and all that gorgeous southern Italian setting was a great backdrop. Nate, the American regular guy warehouse worker who suddenly finds himself heir to an Italian dukedom, wealth and a castle, struck me as the extrovert, more easygoing of the two leads and I liked his character. But Jacopo, the castle caretaker who feels awkward and outcast from his family, got most of my sympathy because he did not have the best family situation and had a lot of insecurities to overcome. Together they made for a smashing romance with all the feels. And as to the heat level, I liked that it was mostly mild heat with some steamy bits thrown in, more concentrated on them building an emotional connection. And Jacopo's big secret and how it panned out was a great bonus.
I've got to say I was impressed and, though the whole inheriting a foreign dukedom was a fantasy type development, the range of Jacopo's family's reaction to his romance with the new duke seemed realistic. I did not want to put this one down!
I can definitely see myself reading more by this author.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
May 19, 2024
Intense levels of pining! Ahh! Nate is living in Oregon with a job he doesn't like when he finds out he's the last heir and now Duke of a tiny island in Italy. He has to spend three months living in his new castle in order to inherit everything, but there's just one problem. The caretaker of the house who's basically there to take care of him and help him is wildly attractive and Nate cannot get enough of him.
Jacopo has been living the closeted life thanks to the very conservative island and his homophobic father. But, he can't fight his feelings for Nate, despite the big secret he's hiding that will take him away once the three months are over. Oof. So much emotion!!
🔥: Pretty steamy with these two, and the Italian sure doesn't hurt. We don't get all the graphic details, but it's easy to see their passion in quickly paced scenes.
😆: Most of the comic relief comes from things getting lost in translation. And from Nate's sister, Thea!
😭: Your eyes are very likely to water with this one. So much drama between all the secrets and the hiding. You'll be rooting for these two!
If you're looking for an emotional read with all the pining you can handle, look no further than this book!
CW: homophobia
Jacopo has been living the closeted life thanks to the very conservative island and his homophobic father. But, he can't fight his feelings for Nate, despite the big secret he's hiding that will take him away once the three months are over. Oof. So much emotion!!
🔥: Pretty steamy with these two, and the Italian sure doesn't hurt. We don't get all the graphic details, but it's easy to see their passion in quickly paced scenes.
😆: Most of the comic relief comes from things getting lost in translation. And from Nate's sister, Thea!
😭: Your eyes are very likely to water with this one. So much drama between all the secrets and the hiding. You'll be rooting for these two!
If you're looking for an emotional read with all the pining you can handle, look no further than this book!
CW: homophobia
May 23, 2024
With summer just around the corner, it may be the perfect time to pick up this super cute novel that takes place on a small southern Italian island!
Nate thinks he is unremarkable in every way—until a proper Italian man named Jacopo knocks on his door, annoyed, to tell him that he is the lost Duke of Carmosino, confirmed via a 23 and me DNA test. All he has to do is go live in his castle for three months, and the title—and assets—become his. Sounds like a scam, but it all checks out, so Nate flies to Italy with Jacopo, who turns out to be the castle’s caretaker. And who gives Nate butterflies.
This was a cute story set in a gorgeous area. I loved the scenery and also Jacopo’s large, very Italian family. I also liked Nate and Jacopo together, once they actually started interacting! There are a few heavier themes addressed in the story also, but this is a good mostly lighthearted romance. I did feel like their conflict came out of nowhere and was a little overdramatic, but overall this was a good story!
CW: homophobia, toxic parental relationship, father issues, abandonment issues
Nate thinks he is unremarkable in every way—until a proper Italian man named Jacopo knocks on his door, annoyed, to tell him that he is the lost Duke of Carmosino, confirmed via a 23 and me DNA test. All he has to do is go live in his castle for three months, and the title—and assets—become his. Sounds like a scam, but it all checks out, so Nate flies to Italy with Jacopo, who turns out to be the castle’s caretaker. And who gives Nate butterflies.
This was a cute story set in a gorgeous area. I loved the scenery and also Jacopo’s large, very Italian family. I also liked Nate and Jacopo together, once they actually started interacting! There are a few heavier themes addressed in the story also, but this is a good mostly lighthearted romance. I did feel like their conflict came out of nowhere and was a little overdramatic, but overall this was a good story!
CW: homophobia, toxic parental relationship, father issues, abandonment issues
December 24, 2025
2 stars
Nate finds out that he is the heir to a small castle in Italy. Jacopo's family has been the caretakers of the duke's estate for a long time, and he can't wait to get the new duke established and then leave his small island and never look back. But first, they have to get Nate ready to take over the dukedom.
I really, really wanted to like this. I enjoy stories about suddenly inheriting something that brings you to a much higher station in life and how that plays out with someone who hasn't necessarily had the training. But this was not good. There wasn't really a lot of story, I'm not sure I bought the romance between Nate and Jacopo, and everything was so flat. The characters were like cardboard cutouts and anything emotion-wise felt both rote and forced. I'm so glad that I didn't spend money on this. I am a little upset that I bought the first book by the author, as I can't imagine that it will be much better.
FYI: I thought that maybe I was just being a grumpy reader, but the book that I read right after ignited all my senses and they had such depth. It's definitely not me, it's the books I've been reading lately.
Nate finds out that he is the heir to a small castle in Italy. Jacopo's family has been the caretakers of the duke's estate for a long time, and he can't wait to get the new duke established and then leave his small island and never look back. But first, they have to get Nate ready to take over the dukedom.
I really, really wanted to like this. I enjoy stories about suddenly inheriting something that brings you to a much higher station in life and how that plays out with someone who hasn't necessarily had the training. But this was not good. There wasn't really a lot of story, I'm not sure I bought the romance between Nate and Jacopo, and everything was so flat. The characters were like cardboard cutouts and anything emotion-wise felt both rote and forced. I'm so glad that I didn't spend money on this. I am a little upset that I bought the first book by the author, as I can't imagine that it will be much better.
FYI: I thought that maybe I was just being a grumpy reader, but the book that I read right after ignited all my senses and they had such depth. It's definitely not me, it's the books I've been reading lately.
May 3, 2024
Soooo... this was cute 😊
I loved the Hot Mess Prince an insane amount so I couldn't wait for this to come out (Neel & Thibault even get a few mentions in this and that made me smile) and I wasn't disappointed with this at all. I did feel like the last 50 or so pages could have been longer though (from Ireland onwards) BUT that's not a criticism, that's just me being greedy and wanting more!!! I think I could read about these 2 forever and never get bored of them.
Jacopo is moody/brooding but for good reason. Nate is more happy-go-lucky and they're such a good fit together. There's an instant attraction that just leaps from the page and you can literally feel it bubbling throughout. The whole family (both sides) really added to the book and relationship too, and I'd love to read more on what happened after the ending of the book (no spoilers here).
Loved Jacopo the most I think (I keep changing my mind!!) but I have a thing for Italian men so that swings it a little 😂
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I loved the Hot Mess Prince an insane amount so I couldn't wait for this to come out (Neel & Thibault even get a few mentions in this and that made me smile) and I wasn't disappointed with this at all. I did feel like the last 50 or so pages could have been longer though (from Ireland onwards) BUT that's not a criticism, that's just me being greedy and wanting more!!! I think I could read about these 2 forever and never get bored of them.
Jacopo is moody/brooding but for good reason. Nate is more happy-go-lucky and they're such a good fit together. There's an instant attraction that just leaps from the page and you can literally feel it bubbling throughout. The whole family (both sides) really added to the book and relationship too, and I'd love to read more on what happened after the ending of the book (no spoilers here).
Loved Jacopo the most I think (I keep changing my mind!!) but I have a thing for Italian men so that swings it a little 😂
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 4, 2024
This read like a summer romance movie. I liked it a lot! I could imagine myself on a small Italian island with sunshine and sea-breeze.
Nate hates his work in a warehouse, and his life seems boring in general. One day a handsome Italian knocks on his door. And with a promise of a fortune and a castle, Nate treks over the Atlantic.
Jacobo comes from a family that takes care of the island's castle, and its duke. He feels trapped on an island he can't be himself in - not being understood by his family. I felt bad for Jacobo for most of the book - how he had to keep his secrets to himself, and how his introvertness wasn't understood on an island full of loud Italians.
I loved how Nate understood and liked Jacobo even if he was a bit stand-offish in the beginning. They felt right together.
I might've cried from 80% to 90% of the book, and then wish the last 10% were longer. I would read more of these two!
Nate hates his work in a warehouse, and his life seems boring in general. One day a handsome Italian knocks on his door. And with a promise of a fortune and a castle, Nate treks over the Atlantic.
Jacobo comes from a family that takes care of the island's castle, and its duke. He feels trapped on an island he can't be himself in - not being understood by his family. I felt bad for Jacobo for most of the book - how he had to keep his secrets to himself, and how his introvertness wasn't understood on an island full of loud Italians.
I loved how Nate understood and liked Jacobo even if he was a bit stand-offish in the beginning. They felt right together.
I might've cried from 80% to 90% of the book, and then wish the last 10% were longer. I would read more of these two!
May 16, 2024
Nate Schafer is the last living descendent of the di Carmosino family and has inherited a dukedom with castle on a tiny Italian island. The castle is neglected and crumbling, but it does come with a tall, dark and gorgeous caretaker, Jacopo Brunetti. They are immediately attracted to each other, but Jacopo is closeted. In order to gain his inheritance, Nate has to live in the castle for three months. and the two begin a summer affair. Carmosino is a very conservative, Catholic island, so their affair isn't in the open. Added to that, Jacopo's father is homophobic and verbally abusive.
Their relationship is sweet and steamy. They do go through the "I love him, but I can't force him to stay" angst. But their HEA includes Nat's supportive family and Jacopo's loving sisters.
Very likeable characters, main and secondary. Wonderful worldbuilding. And a lot of sunshiny fun.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my review.
Their relationship is sweet and steamy. They do go through the "I love him, but I can't force him to stay" angst. But their HEA includes Nat's supportive family and Jacopo's loving sisters.
Very likeable characters, main and secondary. Wonderful worldbuilding. And a lot of sunshiny fun.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my review.
May 19, 2024
Nate gets an unexpected inheritance, a dukedom complete with castle that has seen better days. And in order to claim and keep it he has to stay for at least 3 months. And there is a caretaker Jacopo who wants nothing more than to get away from the tiny conservative catholic island on which the castle is perched. He is deep in the closet and grumpy - but who could blame him - as his living into who he is and loves is limited. Their attraction is immediate and proximity allows them to indulge in a summer fling that as their forced time together winds down will force them to have to figure out just what and who they want and what they are willing to do about it. Both of these men a wonderfully flawed but delightful beings. Their story was well told and a delight to read. Will be on the TBR again list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 29, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
3 stars
Duke for the Summer by Emily Spady is another foray into a new-to-me author and I was looking forward to a fun, summer-style read involving Nate been whisked off to Italy in a fantasy style story as he learns he is a duke and inherits a castle. However, the structure of the story was weak for me from the start and it didn’t strengthen too much as I was reading. The setup with how Nate learned he was a duke and went off to Italy was just too thin for me.
This book wasn’t the fun, summer read I was looking for, but a different reader may have a different experience.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
3 stars
Duke for the Summer by Emily Spady is another foray into a new-to-me author and I was looking forward to a fun, summer-style read involving Nate been whisked off to Italy in a fantasy style story as he learns he is a duke and inherits a castle. However, the structure of the story was weak for me from the start and it didn’t strengthen too much as I was reading. The setup with how Nate learned he was a duke and went off to Italy was just too thin for me.
This book wasn’t the fun, summer read I was looking for, but a different reader may have a different experience.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
May 29, 2024
2.5 stars rounded up
American-born Nate finds himself traveling to Italy, the heir to an Italian dukedom. Jacopo, the Italian caretaker of the castle that is part of Nate's inheritance, is as attracted to Nate as the new duke is to him. Their connection and eventual relationship has some laughter and is full of missed opportunities, misunderstandings, and misfortunes. Jacopo smokes, which I don't find at all sexy, and both men are lushes, getting drunk too often for it to be excusable. Jacopo's relationship with his family is contentious at best, and both suffer from poor self-esteem. The story is moving but I just didn't feel much of anything for either man. In addition, I'm still waiting to hear why Jacopo is responsible for the upkeep of the castle, and why that responsibility ends with the arrival of the new duke.
American-born Nate finds himself traveling to Italy, the heir to an Italian dukedom. Jacopo, the Italian caretaker of the castle that is part of Nate's inheritance, is as attracted to Nate as the new duke is to him. Their connection and eventual relationship has some laughter and is full of missed opportunities, misunderstandings, and misfortunes. Jacopo smokes, which I don't find at all sexy, and both men are lushes, getting drunk too often for it to be excusable. Jacopo's relationship with his family is contentious at best, and both suffer from poor self-esteem. The story is moving but I just didn't feel much of anything for either man. In addition, I'm still waiting to hear why Jacopo is responsible for the upkeep of the castle, and why that responsibility ends with the arrival of the new duke.
May 5, 2024
Nate has always felt like he was living a mediocre life. Aside from his fabulous sister, everything in Nate’s life has just been quite average.
Jacopo is about to turn Nate’s life upside down. Jacopo shows up to tell Nate he is a duke, the owner of a castle and has a large inheritance if he will come to Italy with him for 3 months. What does Nate have to lose,right?
Nate learns he has a lot more to gain. He learns a lot about himself, family and the importance of being open and honest with those you love and not keeping secrets.
I cannot wait to read this book again and again. It is the perfect beach read and will keep you entertained from start to finish.
I received and ARC copy in exchange for a voluntary review
Jacopo is about to turn Nate’s life upside down. Jacopo shows up to tell Nate he is a duke, the owner of a castle and has a large inheritance if he will come to Italy with him for 3 months. What does Nate have to lose,right?
Nate learns he has a lot more to gain. He learns a lot about himself, family and the importance of being open and honest with those you love and not keeping secrets.
I cannot wait to read this book again and again. It is the perfect beach read and will keep you entertained from start to finish.
I received and ARC copy in exchange for a voluntary review
May 21, 2024
This author has such a breezy and charming writing style. I enjoyed The Hot Mess Prince a lot and this has a similar unique and fresh take on royalty romance. I liked both main characters quite a lot, Nate is lovely and Jacopo is an intriguing grump. The setting is also wonderful and gives off great summer reading vibes. I’m sorry to say this fell apart a little for me over the last twenty percent or so. I really hated the big reveal. It felt out of left field for the plot and uncharacteristic of the character, which for me put a damper on enjoying the rest of the story. Three stars for the writing which is genuinely entertaining and well done, l just didn’t like the ending- but others may love it.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
May 23, 2024
Great to inherit an Italian castle, right? Well... i realky enjoyed Nate and Jacopo's story. I especially loved Jacopo's story. Initially, it seemed he'd built the perfect, comfortable life for himself tending the castle and being with his books and cat. We discover, however, that he isn't happy and desperately wants to get away from there, get away from his awful parents and just maybe find the courage to be himself. Nate's arrival thwarts those plans and even worse, makes Jacopo feel things he tries to hide. As their relationship heats up, secrets are revealed, too much drinking causes a major issue and these two have to try to find a way back to each other and being emotionally honest.
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