La moglie del duca

The Three Mrs #3

by Jess Michaels, Isabella Nanni (translator)

Dopo aver scoperto che suo marito era un bigamo con tre mogli, il mondo di Abigail Montgomery va in mille pezzi. Ancora sconvolta dalla notizia, scopre che il fedifrago corteggia un’ulteriore donna, la sorella del Duca di Gilmore. Decide allora di intervenire in forma anonima e la reazione di Gilmore le fa crollare il mondo addosso. Da allora lo vede come un nemico. Un nemico arrogante, interessante e molto bello.

Nessuno è in grado di far saltare i nervi al Duca di Gilmore più dell’affascinante Abigail Montgomery. Si scontrano continuamente, eppure non riesce a togliersela dalla testa. Ma ora che il suo anno di lutto per il marito che li ha traditi tutti è finito, Abigail compare molto di più nella sua vita. E quando una serie di scommesse fatte per gioco sfocia in un momento di passione, tutto cambia.

Costretti a sposarsi dopo essere stati sorpresi insieme, i due devono affrontare un passato intricato e un futuro nebuloso. Questi nemici potranno mai essere più che meri amanti? O la loro ostinata esitazione ad avvicinarsi impedirà a entrambi di essere veramente felici insieme?

Genres: Historical Romance, Romance, Historical, Enemies To Lovers, Regency

260 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 11, 2021

About the author

Jess Michaels is a USA Today Bestselling Author who likes geeky stuff like Star Wars, playing video games (she ships herself with Dragon Age’s Iron Bull FOREVER), Bob’s Burgers and collecting POPs! She also drinks a LOT of Diet Coke. Probably an unhealthy amount, but it’s her only vice. She will eat (almost) anything coconut, truly anything cheesy and nothing spicy (yes, she is a walking stereotype when it comes to that). She likes cats, her dog Elton and people who care about the welfare of their fellow humans.

Although she started out traditionally published by Avon/HarperCollins, Pocket, Hachette and Samhain Publishing, in 2015 she went fully indie and has never looked back! She is lucky enough to be married to her favorite person in the world and live tucked between the ocean and the mountains in Oregon.

When she’s not watching Our Flag Means Death or trying out all the new flavors of Greek yogurt, she writes historical romances with smoking hot heroes and sassy heroines who do anything but wait to get what they want.

Reviews

[MG *Bury Me with My Kindle.. & a REALLY Long Charger* · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 scandal on top of scandal stars!

I have really enjoyed this trilogy, and I have looked forward to this story since the beginning as I felt these two would have combustible chemistry - and I was right! If you haven't read the first 2 books in this series, I would recommend reading them because these characters are in those earlier stories, and while their history with each other is summarized to some extent in this story, in order to really enjoy their "how it started/how it's going," you really need the full background.

Ever since she discovered that her late husband was married to 2 other women (who, despite the circumstances, have become her closest friends), Abigail has hated being called "Mrs. Montgomery." She was, in fact, the only one who legally had that "title," and while she thought herself in love with her husband at one time, things had fizzled well before she learned the horrible truth. Now that she has observed the proper grieving time for a widow, Abigail is going to re-enter society, and she is equal parts glad to be out of mourning and worried that people will shun her because of her husband's bad deeds. Though she is the person that technically "outed" her husband's misdoings by sending a letter to the Duke of Gilmore when his sister was being courted by her late spouse, she still holds the duke largely responsible for the fall out as he brought more attention to the situation than she ever wanted in uncovering what her late husband was up to, and that has made her life all the more difficult. Not only that, but the duke seems to emphasize "Montgomery" in a ducal-ly judgemental way when he greets her, and she is certain it is on purpose. The cretin. But since he is a close friend of the Earl of Leighton, her late husband's father, she cannot seem to avoid his company, though lately she finds herself thinking more often of the infuriatingly handsome man.

Nathan, Duke of Gilmore, is not entirely sure why Abigail Montgomery dislikes him so much, but he has found he actually enjoys verbally sparring with her. Not only is she undeniably beautiful, but she is intelligent and spirited - characteristics that seem to draw him closer to her despite her animosity towards him. Since Nathan is steadfast in his support of his best friend, the Earl of Leighton, he seems to be unable to avoid close proximity with Abigail. When they place an innocent wager at a dinner party, he finds that he can't help but goad her further, and Abigail refuses to back down from his challenges. But when they are caught in a compromising position by one of the ton's biggest busybodies, the stakes are raised higher than either can surmount. What will happen when they are forced to wed? Can Nathan help Abigail move on and accept his olive branch? After being so hurt by love in the past, is it possible for Abigail to trust Nathan enough to open her heart once again?

What I liked:
--- Likeable yet flawed characters that I have been looking forward to seeing together since book 1
--- Other characters from the trilogy are in this one quite a bit as well which is nice to see their stories continue
--- I might normally complain about no "home runs" until they were legally married (which was about 65% or so), but I liked in this case that the relationship developed so that when they actually go there, it meant a whole lot more between them than it would have if they had jumped into bed sooner (and there were a few trips to 2nd & 3rd base earlier in the story to tide the steamy goodness lovers over)
--- STEAMY GOODNESS

What I didn't like as much:
--- I felt like there could have been more "hate to want you" between these two - some more fight before they gave into the mushier feelings; while I appreciate that the author didn't draw out angst because of miscommunication (that's one my pet peeves), I like the almost violent kind of passion that a true enemies-to-lovers can bring out in the MCs
--- This is just something that annoyed me throughout the series: the author calls Erasmus Montgomery a "bigamist," but isn't he is really a "polygamist" because he had 3 wives?

Overall, I enjoyed this one. The pacing was good; the relationship between the two MCs developed nicely; and the steamy goodness was delish. A fitting ending to a great trilogy!

Plot --- 4.5/5
Main Characters --- 4.5/5
Supporting Cast --- 4.5/5
Steam Level* --- 4/5
Violence --- none I can recall
Language --- some
POV --- 3rd

*Note that steam level is not a rating so much as a how hot was it: 0/5 - clean; 1/5 - mild (nothing descriptive); 2/5 - 3rd base action/1 home run; 3/5 - now we're getting somewhere (a couple of full-on steamy scenes); 4/5 - yes please! (erotica territory); 5/5 - they did EVERYTHING in this one, y'all

[ChasingLeslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

After finding out her husband was a bigamist with three wives, Abigail Montgomery’s world fell apart. The cur was also courting a fourth woman, the sister of the Duke of Gilmore. Abigail and Gilmore don't want to like each other, but now have to navigate an unexpected future together.

This is the third book in The Three Mrs series. In the first story, the duplicity of Erasmus Montgomery is revealed and the three "wives" come together in an unlikely friendship. I would highly recommend reading the books in order to avoid spoilers.

Jess Michaels knocked it out of the park with this series, and this concluding story did not disappoint! What started as two characters who were thorns in each others sides, ended with a couple that really needed each other. Abigail had fears of putting her feelings forward, after her emotions were trampled by her awful husband...but series readers knew her to be an extremely kind and supportive woman. Nathan seemed gruff and standoffish in the other books, so it was a pleasure to see his softer side. And ohh, the glaze sure does melt on this cinnamon roll hero! He was positively delicious, and the ending was perfect!

Tropes: Widow, Enemies to Lovers, Compromised / Forced to Marry

Eggplant Rating: 5

* I received an ARC and this is my honest review. #TheDukesWife #NetGalley

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story. The connection between Abigail and Nathan was hot. So enjoyed reading this.
As usual Jess Michaels comes up trumps once again. I loved it! 5☆

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

Really great conclusion to this series! These characters have all suffered one way or another due the bast-, I mean Erasmus Montgomery. Celeste, Pippa, Abigail, Owen, Rhys and Gilmore have all suffered and had to deal with the aftermath of Erasmus’ death.

I knew Abigail wouldn’t fall in love again easily since she obviously has some major trust issues and loves to put up a fight, especially with Nathan, Duke of Gilmore. Nathan had his own issues he had to work through regarding trusting Abigail as well in the prior books. This is definitely an enemies to lovers book but with the known fact they are at least both attracted to each other before the start of this book. I loved seeing them slowly fall in love, their wagers and seeing Abigail, in particular, lower her shield. It may have taken her a little too long for me to give this book a five star rating but once everything came together it was lovely.

All of the characters are so supportive of each other and I absolutely love that. They have been through a seriously stressful year and I’m so happy to see them have their happy ending.

Definitely recommend reading this series in order to avoid spoilers. Can’t wait to see what Jess Michaels has in store for her next book!

*Received via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*

[Shoshanna Ford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Im going to write my full review tomorrow, but I've just finished this one and I *LOVED* it. Best in the series. I laughed out loud multiple times.

Update:
I think this one is my favorite in the series.


The banter is witty. The sex is hot. The characters are already our friends at this point (which is the best kind of book). There are tie in appearances from even older friends. This one made me laugh out loud which was a surprise. I'm more of a squeal under the covers kind of girl.


I adored this one. I am not surprised. I've been waiting for Abigail's story since the beginning. She is my favorite wife. The one that keeps it all together. I love her. Forced or arranged marriage is one of my favorite tropes, and this is no different.


Absolutely recommend this series. It was such a fun and creative idea. I loved every book.

[Lisa C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful story of Abigail Montgomery, a woman who's husband was a bigamist and Nathan, Duke of Gilmore, who saves his sister from becoming wife number four. These two start out as enemies, but slowly see the hurt the other is carrying. Abigail, and especially Nathan will soon become favourite characters. Loved how their relationship grew and really enjoyed seeing the other friends from the first two books of the series. This can be read as a standalone as the story is well explained, but do yourself a favour and read the series.

[Tanya Sridhar · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5 Stars

Enjoyed this, RTC.

[Tracy Emro · Rating 5 out of 5]

After the death of her bigamist husband, Abigail Montgomery’s mourning is finally over and she is ready to pick up the pieces of her life and hopefully start anew. She is not sure where life will take her, but she is sure of one thing – she is done with love! Now if she could just stop her inconvenient attraction to Nathan, the Duke of Gilmore, the man who exposed her husband’s bigamy to the ton and who seems to be everywhere she goes! And the more she tries to ignore him, the more he seems bent on confronting her.

Nathan is frustrated, he is attracted to a woman who actively despises him and he is not sure why. He should just let her be and find another woman, but he can’t seem to stop himself from engaging with her at every opportunity. Their contentious relationship seems to take a turn when they make a wager while attending a dinner with their mutual friends. A wager he loses and proposes another to recoup his loss. With each new wager, they begin to form a friendship of sorts and soon they begin to succumb to the attraction that neither wants, yet neither can deny. An attraction that will lead to a compromising situation and a marriage of convenience that seems to be anything but convenient.

This was a well-written, nicely paced, fun enemies to lovers story. Nathan and Abigail are wonderful characters and their road to HEA is filled with witty banter, wagers, steamy love scenes, and cameos from the “other Mrs. Montgomerys”. This is the third book in the series and while it could be read as a standalone title, I would recommend reading the series in order for the best reader experience.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own. *

[Bourbon, Books and Brenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally, Abigail’s story, the first Mrs. Montgomery, the last to carry the name.
*****
Rating: 4 stars
Steam: 2.5 flames
Genre: Historical romance / Enemies-to-Lovers
*****
The Three Mrs.’ series has been a tragic tale of how Erasmus Montgomery, bigamist, destroyed three women’s lives (and almost a fourth). One by one, the former Mrs. Montgomery’s have found their true love, found their hearts, and although society isn’t kind, they are trying to regain their rightful places.

Abigail was the original and actual Mrs. Montgomery, as the first wife. Unfortunately, at one point she had loved Erasmus, and then he became mean and a liar, and by the time he died, there was no love lost. However, the walls around her heart are high and solid. She refuses to ever fall in love again, although she is so kind, compassionate, and loyal to all those around her.

Abigail wants her freedom more than anything but as a woman, she is limited in her options. Most men want to control their wives...and she never wants to be controlled again. Enter Nathan, Duke of Gilmore...Nathan and Abigail have been nothing short of adversarial for a year, but in the words of Andes Serrano “Oftentimes we love the thing we hate and vice versa.” Could these two be masking lust/like with hate?

Gilmore has been intrigued by Abigail since he met her, but he too had a terrible upbringing and is slow to trust, but he can’t deny there is something brewing between him and Abigail, the only issue is getting Abigail to see it.

The Duke’s Wife is a push pull romance, with both MCs trying to protect themselves. The two characters have witty banter, chemistry off the charts, and the storyline of the two of them finding love again was wonderful. I loved Gilmore, he was such a kind, understanding, and plain wonderful man. I will be honest, I wanted to smack Abigail a couple of times so she could see what was in front of her...good thing Gilmore is persistent.

A wonderful conclusion to the tragic tale of the Three Mrs., it was fantastic to see Pippa, Celeste, and Abigail find love and that Erasmus did not win in the end! I highly recommend this book/series! Happy reading!

[Bookwormlipa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have received an ARC of this book by NetGalley, and The Passionate Pen and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review. The Pub date of the book is May 11th. This review will be posted on my Goodreads, Facebook page and Instagram.
I am incredibly happy to have read this series and that this two were the last ones to have their story told. It made sense in the end and more fun too.
Since the beginning of the series, we came to know Abigail and her kindness and support to her friends even when she needed it the most. I liked her and I could understand a bit of what she has done with Nathan until the end of the book – although it hit a nerve too, I confess. But still, I really liked her. She needed someone to love, protect her and understand her. And who better than Nathan, the Duke she hates the most in the world? Yup. He’s the one.
Nathan was a surprise to me since the start. I believed he was a bit harsh in the other books but now I know why and I kind of get it. Even tough he was a Duke, his life was not always so easy. I liked that he wanted to learn and that he was honest with his feelings not only with Abigail but with his friends too – and that he was loyal to that friendship. He and Abigail were made for each other no doubt. The author gave us two broken characters and they completed one another with imperfections and understanding. I loved that.
I guess this is all I have to say because I do not like to spoil things – and sometimes I do. I recommend this book (and this series) to everyone who like this genre of books. It was a beautiful story with much value in love, friendship, and sisterhood – and of course, sensual moments too. Can’t forget that too.
I still hate society, the ton and the stupid rules and thoughts. But love always wins, right?

[Cathy Geha · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke’s Wife by Jess Michaels
The Three Mrs #3

Fantastic conclusion to a delightful trio of historical romance stories! This couple definitely grew on me as I read and by the end, I was smitten with them as much as they were with one another!

What I liked:
* Abigail: intelligent, intriguing, giving, caring, healer, good friend, great potential to love, unwilling to trust, hurt, quick, witty.
* Nathan: bright, interesting, brother, friend, focused, skillful, steadfast, competent, worthy, wealthy, patient, witty, charming, intriguing.
* The way I was drawn into the relationship…just as they were.
* The three women harmed by Erasmus and the friendship they forged
* Ophelia: sister to Nathan, almost the fourth wife, young, caring, protective, would like to hear how her life turns out in the future.
* The way the 1797 Club series was brought into this series.
* The wagers and how they played out.
* The friendship between the three couples
* The way the three women took Ophelia in
* That Abigail and Nathan felt evenly matched
* The communication that took place in a healthy way
* The steamy scenes
* Thwarting the gossips
* The smile on my face at the end of the story
* All of it really except…

What I didn’t like:
* The gossips
* The way society cut people for such inappropriate reasons
* Having to say goodbye

Did I like this book? Definitely
Would I read more by this author? Without a doubt

Thank you to NetGalley The Passionate Pen, LLC for the ARC – This is my honest review.

5 Stars

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.

The Duke’s Wife is the third in the 3 Mrs. series. It can be read as a stand-alone, but you get a lot of the background for the situation the characters are in by reading in order, and I do recommend the other books.

Abigail and Nathan start off this book with genuine enmity, thanks to the way Abigail acted to save his sister from becoming the fourth Mrs. Montgomery, and how his fighting back ended up hurting Abigail. Both had such complex emotions, and that type of situation can sometimes make it hard to believably translate into love. However, Michaels does the impossible and brings these two together beautifully, from their delightful banter to the searing passion beneath the ire they bear for one another. While it doesn’t quite measure up to the sinful sweetness that is book one (although that’s purely a preference thing), this book works on every level in the romance department.

I also loved seeing the other two couples, Celeste and Owen, and Pippa and Rhys, enjoying their happiness, and how it all came together for the three former Mrs. Montgomerys who formed an unlikely friendship due to their common problem of being deceived by the same man.

This is a fabulous series, and it’s sure to please lovers of steamy historical romance.

[Sophie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an Advance Reader Copy from the publisher via NetGalley. This in no way impacted on my view.

Ever since she discovered her husband, Ras, had married two other women, and was pursuing a third, Abigail Montgomery knew she must do something to save the young sister of the Duke of Gilmore. However, it started a series of events which revealed to society the truth about the three Montgomery wives, and has left them scorned and ridiculed - no one more so than Abigail, the 'true' wife. Now a year later, she has left her 'mourning', and is ready to return to society, but knows that apart from Celeste, Pippa, Owen, Rhys and Gilmore, she has no one on her side. And, it doesn't help that her conflicting feelings for Gilmore soon lead to the two of them finding themselves in a compromising situation, and being forced to marry. Will Abigail and Nathan finally find their happiness, or will the shadow of Ras’ crimes always hang overhead?

As soon as I started reading this series, and met Abigail and Nathan, Duke of Gilmore, I was drawn in my their chemistry and attraction, and couldn’t wait to finally read their own story. From the moment I started The Duke’s Wife I knew I would be finishing it before putting it down, and simply devoured it all. Though a year has passed since they first met, and the scandal started to leak, their attraction to each other had never lessened, and in fact had got even stronger. Everyone who met Abigail and Nathan could see they were made for each other, and though their story took a little turn, they were able to get their happily ever after. I was a little apprehensive with the ‘forced to marry’ plot line, because I thought it was take the couple longer to realise their true feelings, but it really made the story, and I was so pleased that Nathan and his sister, Ophelia, discovered that it was because of Abigail’s actions that Ophelia was saved and all three wives were finally able to have their happily ever afters. I couldn’t have asked for a better ending to the whole series, and I can’t wait for Jess’ next book.

[Danielle Lamoureaux · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the third book in The Three Mrs series. In the first story, the duplicity of Erasmus Montgomery is revealed and the three "wives" come together in an unlikely friendship. I did not read the two books that preceeded this one but I wish I had! I am now going back and reading the other two books in the series while hoping that the Duke's sister Ophelia gets her own book.

This is a true enemies to lovers story and the hero, Nathan, the Duke of Gimore, did not disappoint. He is delicious. I loved the bantering between him and Abigail but definitely felt like I was missing out as I had not read the two books in the series before this book. The sex scenes are hot and the banter literally had me laughing out loud at some parts. Abigail wants to hate Nathan but slowly comes around and it is a great thing to see the little nuances, as you can tell these two have chemistry that is burning under the surface.

The tropes are bigamy, Widow, forced marriage and enemies to lovers.

I have received an ARC of this book by NetGalley, and The Passionate Pen and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review. The book comes out 5/11.

[RomanceAllTheWay S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Abigail and Nathan right from the 1st fun wager they made to the last small gestures they shared. Pretty hot stuff. Literally!
Enemies to lovers my fav trope. The competitiveness on both of their side is so evident and the reader fully knows they both will end up tangled in each others wins and losses. I loved the back and forth tussle. But also I liked the friends. They were genuinely trying to make Nathan and Abigail see what eveyone else could. And that reminded me of my stubborn friends whom I miss so much!
Wonderful read!!

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd installment of The 3 Mrs. Trilogy by Jess Michaels.

I still haven't read the first one, but I feel like you get much more of a picture of what happened in the first one than we got in the second one. Does that make sense?

Overall I enjoyed this story, it tied all the loose strings together in a neat little bow. We also got to see the two other couples enjoying their happily ever after.

*Thank you to the publisher for this eARC.

[Cristina Pisano · Rating 5 out of 5]

Recensione pubblicata nel Blog Crispi's Books

Buongiorno amiche lettrici,
appassionate di Historical Romance, quelli romantici ma al tempo stesso ardenti, così delicati e altrettanto focosi e impetuosi, come lo sono i libri di Jess Michaels, un’autrice che a ogni pubblicazione, fa sfoggio della sua abilità nel sapersi destreggiare tra le rigide convenzioni dell’epoca, per poi creare i presupposti più adatti, per far vivere ai suoi personaggi in preda alle emozioni e alla magia dei sensi, numerosi siparietti incandescenti.   “La Moglie del Duca” ha come protagonista il risoluto e bellissimo Nathan, il Duca di Gilmore, un uomo di valore e dal ruolo importante nella sua cerchia di conoscenze, ma anche all'interno della società e nelle istituzioni. Coraggioso e protettivo, non esita a prendersi cura e a difendere la rispettabilità dei suoi amici più cari, vittime di un grave scandalo che ha sfiorato anche lui e la sorella, ma dal quale si è potuto  salvare, grazie a una missiva anonima, arrivata al momento giusto.

È solo che... Gilmore è arrogante, frustrante... ed è competitivo...» «Tu sei competitiva!» dissero entrambe le sue amiche contemporaneamente, per poi ridere. «Sono competitiva nel modo giusto» insistette Abigail.

La protagonista invece è Abigail Montgomery, una donna di carattere, ricca di fascino e dall’animo buono, nonostante appaia spesso indomabile, cinica e battagliera.  E’ stata la sposa legittima, la prima delle tre mogli del bigamo Erasmus. Una verità sconvolgente che è venuta alla luce dopo la morte del delinquente, che ha gettato nell'occhio del ciclone le esistenze delle tre giovani vedove, insieme a quelle di tutti coloro che sono stati coinvolti nello scandalo. Uno scompiglio che ha avuto gravi conseguenze, alimentato dal pettegolezzo feroce e carico di giudizio, balzato alle cronache e passato di bocca in bocca, tra i componenti delle famiglie più in vista di Londra. Chiacchiere che hanno creato il vuoto intorno, fomentate dal ton, il vero carnefice, famelico e intoccabile, costantemente affamato di sconcezze e vergogna, che non sa perdonare gli errori, nonostante a pagarne le conseguenze in questo caso, non sia il vero responsabile, ma le vittime delle circostanze e di chi non ha colpe. I sei protagonisti della serie, che troviamo in tutti i tre volumi, si sono frequentati e supportati tra loro e nel corso dei mesi sono nate forti amicizie e grandi amori, ma altrettante antipatie

Non che a Nathan piacesse la compagnia di Abigail. Era bella e intelligente e poteva essere incredibilmente gentile... ma era anche una pillola amara e lui non aveva intenzione di ingoiarla.

Travolti dall’onda, la rispettabilità delle tre vedove e dei loro amici è rasa al suolo. Le speranze di essere accettati in società a breve, sono nulle, così come il poter sognare un futuro roseo e privo di sofferenza, anche se l'amore e i buoni sentimenti riescono comunque a farsi strada e a vincere su ogni malignità. Permane comunque la certezza di un presente doloroso e non privo di minacce, soprattutto per chi ha nobili casate da difendere, finanze traballanti e un nome messo in pericolo da coloro che alla prima occasione, si affrettano a tagliare i ponti, per salvaguardare il “sistema”. Ma al di là di tutto, nel corso dell'anno intercorso dal fattaccio, Celeste si è sposata con Owen Gregory, il detective assoldato per indagare sulla morte di Erasmus, mentre Pippa, è diventata la nuova Contessa di Leighton, grazie al matrimonio con il suo bel Rhys, il fratello del bigamo. Sono due coppie innamorate e felici che non perdono occasione di creare nella realtà buia, una loro isola di pace e d’amore che a poco a poco, riesce a fare breccia anche nei cuori all’apparenza induriti di Abigail e Nathan, che segretamente, cominciano a desiderare di poter provare la stessa gioia, pienezza e felicità.  E se ciò che cercano,�� fosse proprio in chi escludono in partenza, annebbiati dal reciproco fastidio?

Quando erano stati vicini, c’era stato un momento, in cui gli occhi di Abigail avevano sostenuto i suoi, in cui l’aveva vista solo come una bella donna, non come la principessa di ghiaccio che lo vedeva sotto una cattiva luce qualunque cosa facesse.

Abigail e il Duca di Gilmore, si odiano dal primo giorno in cui si sono incontrati! Ma sarà veramente così? Oppure sotto ciò che mostrano c’è ben altro? Entrambi li abbiamo conosciuti nei due volumi precedenti e ci siamo divertite a sorridere ai loro battibecchi, al modo in cui si guardavano in cagnesco, per poi cercarsi con gli occhi, nei momenti in cui erano sicuri di non essere osservati. Peccato che sia noi,  sia i loro amici più cari,  non ci siamo lasciati fregare!  Entrambi sono abituati a far buon viso a cattivo gioco e a indossare una maschera di imperturbabilità, che all'occorrenza, si trasforma in una corazza che li rende impermeabili ai sentimenti, nella convinzione rendano vulnerabili e deboli. Le esperienze della vita e i traumi del passato, hanno insegnato ad Abigail e Nathan a controllare le emozioni,  per non rischiare di soffrire ancora. 

«Allora, che cos’è?» chiese lui. Lei sbuffò. «Che cos’è cosa?» «Avete detto che farmi arrabbiare non è il vostro solito modo di fare, nonostante siate molta brava a farlo. Allora a che gioco state giocando?»

Nathan e Abigail sono più simili di quanto pensano, pertanto quando finalmente si decideranno ad accendere la miccia, si troveranno ben presto in balia di un uragano dei sensi e in un’alchimia di passione, che avrà il potere di stravolgere completamente le loro vite,  fino a farli vacillare e cadere vittime dell’ardore più bruciante. Ma che male c’è a viversi il momento, se sono due persone adulte, consapevoli e consenzienti? A detta loro, nulla!  Soprattutto perchè è l'unica  strada percorribile per accedere alle soddisfazioni che entrambi anelano! L'unico problema è riuscire a tenere a bada i sentimenti, ma basta mettersi d’accordo sulle regole da seguire, giusto? Facile no? Ma se poi tra sfide, scommesse, incontri ardenti e pagamenti di pegni, scoprissero che sono fatti l’uno per l’altra, tanto da duellare con le emozioni che in entrambi, spingono per venire considerate? Come farà Abigail a mettersi in salvo, soprattutto se Nathan ha deciso di arrendersi all’inevitabile, ingaggiando un gioco d’astuzia, spalleggiato dai loro comuni amici, che tifano per lui?

Abigail incrociò le braccia. «Molto bene. Una sterlina.» «Che cosa?» Lei si girò verso di lui. «Scommetto una sterlina[..]» «Una sterlina» ripeté lui, sentendosi allo stesso tempo confuso e divertito.

Un romanzo che mi è piaciuto veramente tanto e che contrariamente a quanto succede di solito, ho voluto leggere con la dovuta calma per potermi godere ogni sviluppo e retroscena. Una lettura che ho gradito di più rispetto alle precedenti della serie, anche se sono storie altrettanto belle e appassionanti. Qui ne “La Moglie del Duca, la vena ironica spicca in maniera preponderante, in una storia di attrazione e di sentimenti che si basa sul gioco, sul divertimento e sulla voglia di sfidarsi per poter ottenere, in caso di vincita, un premio sicuro e per la maggior parte delle volte, molto piccante. Impossibile non lasciarsi conquistare da Nathan un uomo risoluto e solido, capace di assumersi responsabilità pesanti e onerose senza battere ciglio, lo stesso che da attento osservatore, sa cogliere ogni particolare, per poi schierarsi  e battersi contro chi mette in pericolo la serenità delle persone che ama. Ma è anche un uomo passionale che sa essere giocoso e affettuoso, simpatico e irriverente, tanto da colpire al cuore una donna come Abigail, dalla personalità altrettanto forte e multi sfaccettata, tenera nelle sue rare manifestazioni di fragilità, e spaventata riguardo agli esiti del suo possibile innamoramento, tanto a lungo contrastato.

«Stai giocando col fuoco» disse lui con voce roca. «Allora bruciami» mormorò lei di rimando.

Il Duca di Gilmore è un uomo che ha fatto dell’essere corretto, la sua firma e del senso del dovere, la sua missione di vita. Ma sotto la superficie sicura, esiste un cuore grande che arde e che attende il momento giusto per cogliere la gemma per lui più preziosa: l’amore di una donna battagliera e fiera, l'unica che sa fomentare sia la fiamma della passione, sia la gioia di un sentimento vero. Una storia d’amore bellissima, sentimentale, romantica e delicata, dove le lotte tra i due protagonisti, divertenti e stuzzicanti, sono in realtà il riflesso di una battaglia interiore che entrambi stanno giocando nella vita e nell'amore, in un'esistenza dove il destino non è stato benevolo con nessuno dei due. Il passato e le esperienze di vita li hanno cambiarli, fino a spingerli a costruire, mattone dopo mattone, quel muro di freddezza e di impassibilità che nasconde una verità che arde dietro agli sguardi, distaccati e freddi.  Gesti stizzosi, corredati da battute al vetriolo,  dialoghi sferzanti, che alla fine, non sono altro che la maniera contorta di chiedere più attenzioni e di dichiarare che hanno voglia altro!  Abigail, è attratta dall'uomo che considera un nemico, mentre Nathan, non fa che pensare a una donna  pericolosa, che non teme  di sfoderare gli artigli. Ma spesso l’apparenza inganna e nasconde tanta delicatezza e altrettante scoperte meravigliose. 

Quindi tu sei... sei un bel sogno dopo un terribile incubo. E non mi sei antipatico per nessuna di queste cose.» 

Sullo sfondo la Londra della prima metà del diciannovesimo secolo, rigida e conservatrice. Una realtà verso la quale l’autrice ama aprire uno spiraglio, per dare spazio a quelle scintille d'ingegno che con il tempo, saranno capaci di cambiare le menti, o perlomeno, di puntare i riflettori sull'uguaglianza, il diritto di amare chi si vuole, così come sulle condizioni di vita delle classi inferiori, alle quali i nobili non hanno mai prestato attenzione. Nathan, è un pari nella Camera dei lord, pertanto mosso da un autentico interesse, è deciso a dare il proprio contributo. Teatro di dibattiti, conferenze e  scambio di nuove idee, è il salotto di Lady Lena, il circolo intellettuale tra i più ambiti, tra coloro che hanno una mentalità progressista e Abigail, Celeste, Pippa e i loro mariti, frequentano questo ambiente. Un romanzo in cui l'autrice fa sfoggio di un'autentica bravura nel creare i dialoghi “botta e risposta”, che appaiono arguti e spassosi, grazie a uno stile narrativo incalzante, dinamico e coinvolgente. Ogni aspetto e sfumatura del racconto, mi è arrivato nella sua forma migliore, grazie alla traduzione puntuale di Isabella Nanni, che ringrazio per avermi dato la possibilità di conoscere i libri di Jess Michaels. Mi chiedo: e Ophelia, la sorella di Nathan? Ci sarà un romanzo tutto per lei? Magari farà il suo ingresso in un'altra serie, così come in questa, c’è stato un piccolissimo accenno al “Club del 1797”. 

“L’aveva coccolata, aveva parlato con lei. A tutte quelle piccole dichiarazioni d’amore che le stava esprimendo ora. L’amore dell’azione, l’amore dell’intenzione. Della tentazione.”

Una storia da leggere scivolando oltre la superficie, perché racconta  di un sentimento delicato, tenero e bellissimo che, nel tentativo di abbattere ogni barriera e ferita del passato, sceglie di veicolare l’emozione attraverso l'ardore dei sensi, per arrivare dritto al cuore. Il sesso per Abigail e Nathan diventa il loro modo di dialogare, per accedere a quella terra di mezzo, soltanto loro, in cui entrambi si sentono liberi. Un limbo in cui usano un linguaggio diverso, che non richiede di esprimere ciò che provano a parole, ma attraverso la comunicazione più istintiva e corporea. Sentimenti che nel loro unirsi, non hanno bisogno di essere spiegati, ma soltanto vissuti, perché Abigail e Nathan sono i primi a non saper accettare e riconoscere ciò che provano, troppo attenti a non mostrare il fianco al nemico o a chi, potrebbe fare ancora del male. Il passato insegna, ma il passato può anche essere elaborato grazie all’amore, l'unica forza in grado di alimentare la fiducia, abbattere le barriere, fino a dissolvere ogni paura e sanare le cicatrici più profonde, che privano di coraggio e annientano le speranze. Un romanzo che consiglio, divertente, ardente e che a modo suo, racconta tante verità. Buona lettura e alla prossima!

Recensione a cura di Cristina Pisano 
Ringrazio l'autrice per la collaborazione

[Stacey Ireson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke's Wife is the third and (I assume) final installment in The Three Wives' series by Jess Michaels. The series centres around a trio of women who all discovered that they were married to the same man before his death. I have thoroughly enjoyed this series so far and I was glad to find that The Duke's Wife didn't let me down, even if it did feel quite different to the previous two books. The drama in this romance doesn't come from an outside threat, but instead from within the pairing.
In The Duke's Wife, we follow the relationship between Abigail (the first, legal wife of Erasmus Mongomery) and the Nathan, the Duke of Gilmore. Abigail and Nathan have hated each other since the very beginning of the series, and to be honest I could never quite understand the nature of the animosity. The Duke's Wife did an awful lot of work to explain the series of misunderstandings and assumptions which had led to the tense feelings between these two. Hidden underneath the dislike was a pretty obvious attraction, which became increasingly apparent throughout the book.
I always enjoy a good enemies-to-lovers story and The Duke's Wife was a wonderful example of this. It was lovely to watch Abigail and Nathan battle with their feelings for each other, before giving into their attraction and eventually developing a deep and abiding love. As ever, Jess Michaels writes wonderful passionate scenes between our main characters and the ending was so sweet and satisfying! I lapped it up! It was also lots of fun to see how our couples from the previous two books were getting on.
Another brilliant romance and a great end to the series. I can't wait to see what Jess Michaels does next.
I received an ARC for this book in exchange for honest feedback.

[Pam Bereznak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Jess Michaels.
I have read every one of her books and that's a lot.
I really loved this series but this was my favorite.
Such a great characters...just loved them.
LOVED, LOVED, LOVED.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke's Wife is the third and final book in the sensual The Three Mrs series by Jess Michaels. I knew it had to end - obviously, because we've run out of wives - but it saddens me just the same. The first two books were great, but Ms. Michaels definitely saved the best for last! Not only was this book extremely steamy and fun, but our hero here may be my favorite one out of all her books I've read. Believe me, that's quite a compliment!

Abigail Montgomery found out her husband was a bigamist with two other wives. As if that wasn't bad enough, she discovered he was also pursuing another woman, the sister of Nathan, the Duke of Gilmore. In order to protect the young woman, Abigail sent the Duke an anonymous letter so she could prevent his sister from being caught up in this sticky web. Nathan didn't respond well, to say the least... he thought Abigail may have known about her husband's deceit and been complicit in his actions, not knowing it was Abigail who saved his sister. Now a year later, Abigail can finally end her mourning for the deceased bigamist. She and Nathan have had a contentious relationship, but he can't help thinking of her. When they begin to spend more time together because of shared friendships, the two begin to make playful wagers. But suddenly it's not just fun and games, as flames ignite between the two...and they are discovered together, forcing them to marry. They agree this won't be a love match... or will it?

This was such a lovely enemies to lovers romance between two distrustful people with difficult pasts. Abigail went through so much, going from a (she thought) happy marriage to finding out her husband was a bigamist and then dealing with his death. She didn't think she could ever trust a man again, though she was extremely attracted to Nathan. Nathan, too, had his share of heartbreak. Even when he distrusted Abigail, however, he was deeply drawn to her. They began to treat each other with less animosity when they began to have fun, friendly wagers, the winning prizes becoming more and more sensual in nature. The physical attraction between these two was absolutely explosive! This author excels in writing intimate moments - nothing is behind closed doors and you don't need to use your imagination; however, they are not just sex scenes, but deeply emotional sexual unions. You will be reaching for a pitcher of ice water as you sigh over the emotions. I especially loved Nathan. He knew his attraction to Abigail was more than just physical before she did, but he exhibited great patience and caring, letting her heal and learn to trust again. I was thrilled to spend more time with the couples from the previous books, Owen and Celeste, and Rhys and Pippa. They were all so in love they couldn't help but meddle in the affairs of Abigail and Nathan. I also enjoyed meeting Nathan's distrustful sister Ophelia. This book can stand alone, but you'll enjoy it more if you follow the journey of all three Mrs! I hate to see this series end, but I'm also excited about the possibilities of what Ms. Michaels has in store for us next; it's sure to be a yummy treat!

I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher and NetGalley. I received no compensation for my review, and all thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.

[Romanticamente Fantasy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Vanilla 91 - per RFS
.
Con la storia di Abigail e Nathan si conclude la serie legata alle vicende delle tre mogli del losco signor Montgomery.
La nostra protagonista è stata la prima moglie, l’unica con un vincolo legalmente valido, e quella che forse ha più sofferto per le malefatte del suo ex marito.
Le interazioni focose tra i nostri personaggi principali erano già presenti nei precedenti romanzi, ma (ovviamente) nel libro a loro dedicato raggiungono il culmine e si evolvono in altro.
Tra un litigio e una scommessa, infatti, la passione si manifesta come una tensione costante e ben percepibile.
Quando tra Nathan e Abigail l’attrazione si libera di ogni freno logico, l’ imprevisto è dietro l’angolo.

I due amanti vengono beccati in una situazione compromettente e l’unico modo per salvaguardare l’onore della gentildonna è quello di organizzare “un matrimonio riparatore”.
Le barriere erette da Abigail per proteggere il suo cuore fragile non saranno semplici da abbattere, ma Nathan lotterà con tutto il cuore e con estrema dolcezza per vincere l’affetto della donna di cui è innamorato.
Anche questa volta la Michaels ha dato vita a un romanzo colmo di romanticismo, passione e sentimento. Abigail è una protagonista appassionata, una donna coraggiosa e pragmatica che affronta le sue fragilità aprendosi alla possibilità di un nuovo amore e di essere felice.
Dei romanzi di questa abile autrice la cosa che mi arriva sempre, e che adoro, è il senso di comunione, di condivisione e inclusione che le sue storie trasmettono. Sono romance in cui le amicizie e gli amori creano speranza, nuove possibilità e alternative alla tristezza.
Le sue protagoniste sono donne che hanno sperimentato il dolore, ma che trovano sempre la forza di reagire, di non lasciarsi trascinare dagli eventi come damigelle da salvare.

In una storia leggera, di conseguenza, Jess Michaels riesce a trasmettere un messaggio davvero importante di rinascita.
Vi consiglio di godervi questa storia zuccherina, che mi ha lasciato davvero un bel senso di calore.

[Letschat1974 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stars 4/5 (Grace Callaway, Jennifer Ashley, Sarah MacLean, Jess Michaels)

This book was good, worth reading in a few days. It hit pretty much most of my personal markers for a good read and well roundness of a book.

my personal markers for a great read...1. smart and engaging writing, 2. Humorous, 3. sexy interactions 4. stories with family/friends and 5. i’ll read the book again

The development and interest in main characters and Secondary characters was enjoyable. It kept me wanting to know and read more. The H/H were smoking hot...pages sizzled.

Laugh out loud with humorous moments. The give and take dialogue was wonderful as well as action filled.

I loved the writing around the women empowerment (it wasn’t over the top for me). Badass women rock.

Movement of the book flowed for the most part. Book writing/conversation engaging. Not a lot of historical accuracy (no big deal to me), not a lot of internal character dialogue and not a lot of descriptive scenery written out.

Romantic /sexual content (kissing, oral and love making scenes) was throughout the book. Nothing over the top and was weaved rightly in the story telling. 3.5/5 rating hotness and steam with some ‘dirty’ words thrown in 😉.

I love series around family members or a group of friends. I love the series even more when the author intertwines those characters throughout the book series (it’s a pet peeve when authors don’t do that because what’s the point of the series and introducing the characters if they are not going to interact throughout the series).

You get past characters written nicely in this book.

would absolutely recommend the book and the series. you really should read the series in order or you’ll miss the true telling of the story around the series.

[Mephala · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Duke’s Wife , the third and last book, in The Three Mrs series was definitely my favourite.

I really liked how the relationship between Abigail and Nathan was build up through the first two books; we might caught only small scenes between them when different couple's romance was on the forefront, but it was enough to established that they didn't really liked each other that much. ...Or did they?

Of course they liked each other, and I loved every moment of their banter and seemingly hostile attitudes and remarks, that really hid how much attraction there was between them.

They sparred verbally so beautifully, and all those heated looks across rooms were so fun to read about.
Not to mention the chemistry they had. It sparkled thorough every dialog and scene. They wager game was one of the better foreplays I've read this year. Maybe that's why among the three books, this one was defiantly the hottest. Oh, when Abigail and Nathan finally had sex it was glorious (I mean, that bathtub scene? Oh my!).

But, of course, it wasn't just the erotic aspect of the story that I enjoyed so much. I really liked both main characters. Gilmore might get on my nerves sometimes; his communication skills were a little bit lacking, but Abigail didn't really help the matter also. I empathized with her insecurities and vulnerability that she was so desperately trying to hide from Nathan and from her friends. As well as Nathan strong sense of duty, especially after they were forced to marry.

They were both damaged by their closes family and it took them a while to find their own strengths and allow themselves happiness.

I really enjoyed this book. It was so fun, romantic, and hot! Great final to the series.

4,5/5 stars

[MrsMascara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series has been a delightful one from Jess Michaels, as they are back to a slightly longer length and a more involved narrative.

Abigail Montgomery was the true and first wife of Erasmus Montgomery, who also bigamously married Celeste from the first book, and Pippa from the second. Celeste is now married to the investigator employed by Erasmus's brother to find the other wives, and Rhys is in turn now married to Pippa, and being shunned by his former society friends for the scandal.

Before he died, Erasmus was also courting a fourth woman, Ophelia, sister to Nathan, Duke of Gilmore. Abigail was instrumental in telling Gilmore what was happening, and his resultant initial distrust of Abigail and therefore how he handled the affair, made it very public, and brought a lot of unwanted notoriety to Abigail.

Both of them profess to dislike the other, and to begin with they believe it too, but they are both always aware of the other and spend more time thinking about the other than they should.

At a ball to introduce the newly married Pippa and Rhys, they start a series of wagers that quickly become sexually charged, and they are compromised into marrying.

They agree to be friends and lovers, but Abigail fears intimacy and love as she is scared of being betrayed again. Can Nathan convince her to give them a chance, and will his protective little sister accept the widow of the man who tried to use her.

What I loved about this book was the character development and change, I thought their journey to falling in love was beautifully done, and they were both very relatable and likeable characters.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book and all opinions are my own.

[Judith Miguel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I´m absolutely OBSESSED about this story. This is the third book I read from this author and I’m in love with her writing.
After she found out her husband was a bigamist with three wives, Abigail Montgomery’s world fell apart. She was still reeling when she found out he was courting yet another woman, the sister of the Duke of Gilmore. She intervened anonymously and Gilmore’s reaction brought her world down around her. She has seen him as an enemy ever since. An arrogant, interesting, very handsome enemy.
No one can push Gilmore’s buttons more than the fascinating Abigail Montgomery. They constantly butt heads and yet he can’t get her off his mind. But now that her year of mourning for the husband who betrayed them all is over, she is showing up in his life a lot more. When a series of playful wagers leads to a passionate moment, everything changes.
Now forced to marry after being caught together, the two must navigate a tangled past and a cloudy future. Could these enemies ever be more than lovers? Or will their stubborn hesitation to get closer keep them from being truly happy together?
This story is soooo hot and witty and charming. They keep fighting each other but I love that they enjoy their attraction. There are a lot of sexy times that make my heart beat a little faster. Gilmore is my new prince charming. He is stern but so in love with her. I couldn´t put it down!
I loved I got to see Celeste, Owen, Rhys and Pippa. Now I need Ophelia’s happy ending!!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Rixxyreadsss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just perfect👌 so loved this story, I read this in one sitting and well, I must say I was so impressed. Hooked me from the beginning. Loved the witty banter between the leads and those silly little wagers they love to make just to best and piss each other off, so funny but sweet at the same time.

However, the Duke takes the fucking cake, I loved him so muchhhh, such a man!😍 the way he loved her and wooed her despite being in denial at first was just so good, and damn he is so freaking loyal and great to his friends. The fmc is very reserved and very intent to not fall in love with her husband but well.... feelings🤭. Though, there are moments I kinda want to smack the heroine in the head already cause' she's really stubborn and took sooo long to acknowledge her feelings for him, I also kinda get where she's coming from (you see her late husband and her had a very unhappy marriage and he was a bigamist too but she loved him and he clearly didn't so yeah).

The flow was nice, the pacing was just right for me and I loved that these two already had a bit of history together before being together so by the time they fell in love, it was really believable. This is also quite steamy, which I really loved as well🔥. Their friends were very supportive too, I also appreciated that this doesn't have the usual villains in HR but instead, the real enemy here was just theirselves, their doubts and insecurities. Loved the ending! Though I wished the epilogue was a bit longer. Very nice read from this author.

[Sandra Italy9268 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Con la “La moglie del Duca”, l’ultimo capitolo della coinvolgente serie “Le Tre Mogli”, Jess Michaels, ci racconta finalmente di Abigail e del duca di Gilmore. Non vedevo l’ora di leggere la loro storia perché, sin dal primo volume, questi due personaggi avevano catturato la mia attenzione. Due protagonisti dal profilo intenso e ben caratterizzato, due poli opposti che si attraggono e si respingono in un duello senza sosta. Abigail è una donna forte e decisa che, pur nascondendo alcune sue fragilità dietro ad un’apparente freddezza, rivelerà un lato del suo carattere passionale e indomito. Nathan, l’affascinante e impenetrabile Duca di Gilmore, dimostrerà di essere un uomo dai solidi principi e non esiterà ad assumersi le sue responsabilità e a proteggere le persone a lui più care. Una trama ben strutturata, frizzante e intrigante al punto giusto non ci risparmierà piacevoli colpi di scena e momenti ricchi di passione. Lo stile narrativo è fluido e, anche grazie all’impeccabile traduzione di Isabella Nanni, rende la lettura scorrevole e molto coinvolgente. Ho apprezzato molto gli intrecci con i personaggi e i collegamenti con gli avvenimenti delle precedenti storie. Coerente al periodo storico in cui si sviluppa, la trama ci offre uno spaccato sulla società londinese di metà ‘800 dove i nostri protagonisti non esiteranno a combatterne gli aspetti rigidi e conservatori per affermare il loro diritto a vivere con le persone che amano al di là delle convenzioni sociali. Un finale ricco di emozioni conclude questa bella serie.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail Montgomery’s world fell apart the year before when she discovered her husband Erasmus was a serial bigamist with three wives & was pursuing Ophelia the sister of the Duke of Gilmore. She intervened anonymously and Gilmore’s reaction brought her world down around her. No one can push Nathan’s buttons more than the fascinating Abigail Montgomery. They constantly butt heads each time they meet & now that her year of mourning for the husband who betrayed them all is over, she is showing up in his life a lot more. When a series of playful wagers leads to a passionate moment, everything changes. Now forced to marry after being caught together, the two must navigate a tangled past and a cloudy future.
This is the final book in this captivating series, it could be read on its own as previous events are summarised but to fully appreciate it I’d recommend reading the series in order. I’d grown to love Abigail, the more we’d got to know how selfless she was. Nathan had come across as the upright stern Duke, boy was this assumption thrown out of the water in this book. The chemistry between the pair was electric, their verbal bantering delicious & their wagers wicked. I loved how their relationship evolved & grew. It was lovely seeing two loveable but flawed characters moving forward & finding love. I absolutely adored the cameo appearances from a couple of the characters from the 1797 Club.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read

[Neeha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Abigail Montgomery is not eager to re-enter society after a year of mourning.  Her late husband was a bigamist who had two other wives and was courting the fourth - the sister of the Duke of Gilmore. If  Abigail had not anonymously intervened and involved the Duke, his sister would have been ruined.  Though he saved his sister, Nathan, The Duke of Gilmore's action changed the lives of all three Montgomery wives and Abigail loathes him for it.

The story starts off a year after this incident and Abigail is forced to be civil with Nathan for the sake of their friends. It is obvious that they are both fascinated and attracted to one another. But Abigail's past makes it difficult for her to trust anyone again, especially someone she thinks she hates.

I started reading the series with the final book and though I enjoyed the story I might have connected better with the main characters if I had read the previous books. But it did not take away my enjoyment while reading the book since I can't wait to read the other two books in the series. I’m so intrigued by the side characters, who are all happily married, that I plan to read their books next and finish reading the series.

If you are looking for a lighthearted read with interesting characters, cute banter and a charming story, The Duke’s Wife is a must-read.

I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Candy Briggs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail Montgomery thought she loved her husband until he did something awful. He had married three women. He was trying for a fourth wife, and had his son by a fifth woman. Celeste and Pippa were the other two wife's, but they had been deeply and their reputations were ruined. They actually became great friends.

The Duke of Gilmore, Nathan, found her attractive but he knew she hated him. Rhys was his best friend and had married one of the three Mrs. Montgomerys. Owen married the other, Celeste. The Duke was very good looking, tall, and had a great physic, but he was cold, and seemed uncaring. He suggested that they make a wager. That started an interest interaction between them.

I loved this story, how often do you read about three wives, at the same time and working on a fourth? Thank goodness Celeste and Pippa fell in love with very good men. The characters were wonderful and so loyal to each other. I could not believe how the ton treated Rhys and Pippa. But the Duke stood by them as did Owen and Celeste and Abigail. There was some twists to the book that surprised me. It kept being interesting, it certainly kept your attention, and and was engaging.
I received this ARC from Net Galley and voluntarily reviewed.