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The Wildes of Lindow Castle #0
My Last Duchess
New York Times bestselling author Eloisa James returns to the Wildes series with a prequel about the Wilde children's parents, Hugo, Duke of Lindow, and Ophelia, Lady Astley.
Every Duke needs a Duchess...
Hugo Wilde, the Duke of Lindow, has a drafty castle, eight naughty children—and no wife. Ophelia, Lady Astley, has a fine house, one well-behaved daughter—and no husband.
Hugo takes one look at Ophelia and loses his heart, but she doesn’t want more children or a castle. She takes one look at him and heads for her carriage.
Desperate to find a duchess, Hugo identifies an appropriate lady to woo. Yet when he meets Ophelia again, the duke realizes that he will marry her, or no one.
Now he faces the greatest challenge of his life.
He must convince Ophelia that their blazing sensuality, his exquisite castle, and his eight charming children add up to a match made in heaven.
When duke finds his duchess, can he win her heart?
Every Duke needs a Duchess...
Hugo Wilde, the Duke of Lindow, has a drafty castle, eight naughty children—and no wife. Ophelia, Lady Astley, has a fine house, one well-behaved daughter—and no husband.
Hugo takes one look at Ophelia and loses his heart, but she doesn’t want more children or a castle. She takes one look at him and heads for her carriage.
Desperate to find a duchess, Hugo identifies an appropriate lady to woo. Yet when he meets Ophelia again, the duke realizes that he will marry her, or no one.
Now he faces the greatest challenge of his life.
He must convince Ophelia that their blazing sensuality, his exquisite castle, and his eight charming children add up to a match made in heaven.
When duke finds his duchess, can he win her heart?
Audiobook
First published October 27, 2020
1049 people are currently reading
3075 people want to read
About the author
Eloisa James
123 books9,522 followersNew York Times bestselling author Eloisa James writes historical romances for HarperCollins Publishers. Her novels have been published to great acclaim. A reviewer from USA Today wrote of Eloisa's very first book that she "found herself devouring the book like a dieter with a Hershey bar"; later People Magazine raved that "romance writing does not get much better than this." Her novels have repeatedly received starred reviews from Publishers' Weekly and Library Journal and regularly appear on the best-seller lists.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
After graduating from Harvard University, Eloisa got an M.Phil. from Oxford University, a Ph.D. from Yale and eventually became a Shakespeare professor, publishing an academic book with Oxford University Press. Currently she is an associate professor and head of the Creative Writing program at Fordham University in New York City. Her "double life" is a source of fascination to the media and her readers. In her professorial guise, she's written a New York Times op-ed defending romance, as well as articles published everywhere from women's magazines such as More to writers' journals such as the Romance Writers' Report.
Eloisa...on her double life:
When I'm not writing novels, I'm a Shakespeare professor. It's rather like having two lives. The other day I bought a delicious pink suit to tape a television segment on romance; I'll never wear that suit to teach in, nor even to give a paper at the Shakespeare Association of America conference. It's like being Superman, with power suits for both lives. Yet the literature professor in me certainly plays into my romances. The Taming of the Duke (April 2006) has obvious Shakespearean resonances, as do many of my novels. I often weave early modern poetry into my work; the same novel might contain bits of Catullus, Shakespeare and anonymous bawdy ballads from the 16th century.
When I rip off my power suit, whether it's academic or romantic, underneath is the rather tired, chocolate-stained sweatshirt of a mom. Just as I use Shakespeare in my romances, I almost always employ my experiences as a mother. When I wrote about a miscarriage in Midnight Pleasures, I used my own fears of premature birth; when the little girl in Fool For Love threw up and threw up, I described my own daughter, who had that unsavory habit for well over her first year of life.
So I'm a writer, a professor, a mother - and a wife. My husband Alessandro is Italian, born in Florence. We spend the lazy summer months with his mother and sister in Italy. It always strikes me as a huge irony that as a romance writer I find myself married to a knight, a cavaliere, as you say in Italian.
One more thing...I'm a friend. I have girlfriends who are writers and girlfriends who are Shakespeare professors. And I have girlfriends who are romance readers. In fact, we have something of a community going on my website. Please stop by and join the conversation on my readers' pages.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 590 reviews
October 30, 2020
The Wildes of Lindow Castle has been such a fun series. I adore all these Wilde siblings, but when I heard we’d be getting a story about the parents, Hugo and Ophelia, I couldn’t wait to read it! They are the much beloved father and mother/stepmother to these eight children. My Last Duchess turned out to be SUCH a sweet, feel-good read. If you love a pursuing hero who does everything he can to woo the heroine, you’ll love this one!
Hugo, a Duke and father to eight motherless children, is in need of a wife. After being widowed by his first and divorced by his second, he doesn’t have much hope for a long-lasting marriage full of happiness and love, so he’ll settle for one that provides for his children. But when he sees Ophelia across the room at a ball for the first time, he’s smitten. It’s love at first sight, something the men of the Wilde family all experience, and he’ll do everything he can to show Ophelia he’s the right man for her.
Ophelia is the single, widowed mother of Viola. She has money, a home, a loving daughter – what more does she need? She certainly doesn’t have any use for a Duke, even a gorgeous one who’s dead set on winning her heart. But maybe there is enough room in her heart for Hugo and his eight adorable children, because she ends up falling for all of them right back.
My Last Duchess is quick, swoony romance that gives us insight on how Hugo and Ophelia met and fell in love all those years ago. We get to see the Wilde siblings as young children, including Horatio, and they’re up to no good, as usual. It was easy to enjoy this one – it’s low drama with a straightforward romance and a hero who has all the heart eyes for the heroine. If you’re a fan of the series, you don’t want to miss this prequel. And if you’re new, this is a great introduction to the Wildes!
Hugo, a Duke and father to eight motherless children, is in need of a wife. After being widowed by his first and divorced by his second, he doesn’t have much hope for a long-lasting marriage full of happiness and love, so he’ll settle for one that provides for his children. But when he sees Ophelia across the room at a ball for the first time, he’s smitten. It’s love at first sight, something the men of the Wilde family all experience, and he’ll do everything he can to show Ophelia he’s the right man for her.
Ophelia is the single, widowed mother of Viola. She has money, a home, a loving daughter – what more does she need? She certainly doesn’t have any use for a Duke, even a gorgeous one who’s dead set on winning her heart. But maybe there is enough room in her heart for Hugo and his eight adorable children, because she ends up falling for all of them right back.
My Last Duchess is quick, swoony romance that gives us insight on how Hugo and Ophelia met and fell in love all those years ago. We get to see the Wilde siblings as young children, including Horatio, and they’re up to no good, as usual. It was easy to enjoy this one – it’s low drama with a straightforward romance and a hero who has all the heart eyes for the heroine. If you’re a fan of the series, you don’t want to miss this prequel. And if you’re new, this is a great introduction to the Wildes!
November 17, 2020
4.5 STARS!
So wonderful! The scenes between Ophelia and the younger children were truly heartwarming. And of course there's always Eloisa James' incredible sense of romance.
The only reason I'm not rounding up is because it was more novella length and the story could have been much more fleshed out.
Also, I don't recommend this one be read as the first book in the series though. It will mean more to you if you get to know the 'children' first through their own books (#1-5).
So wonderful! The scenes between Ophelia and the younger children were truly heartwarming. And of course there's always Eloisa James' incredible sense of romance.
The only reason I'm not rounding up is because it was more novella length and the story could have been much more fleshed out.
Also, I don't recommend this one be read as the first book in the series though. It will mean more to you if you get to know the 'children' first through their own books (#1-5).
February 22, 2021
Finally! An historical romance -- low on the hysterics. There was a little soft porn mixed in, but the romance came through. Interesting characters and a good mix of them. While there was the overall tone of formality (to be expected in these type books), overall I felt these folks were enjoying their lives. A fun read
April 16, 2022
A second reading proved just as delightful (15/4/22)
Mad about those Wildes! (6/10/22)
Of course I was going to love Ophelia (Lady Astley) and Hugo's (the Duke of Lindow) romance. James has not disappointed.
Having adored the Wilde children's travails, this prequel provides a lively background to Hugo and Ophelia's meeting and eventual marriage. Mind you it was a close run thing as the widowed Ophelia had decided not to marry again. Why should she? She has a lovely home, running smoothly with supportive staff. Hugo decided he needed a Duchess to help organize his eight wonderfully high spirited children (well except for his rather priggish heir, Horatius).
After running away, well hastening her departure from a Ball where she was being pursued by Hugo, his jumping into her carriage takes Ophelia down a different track. All very Cinderella, especially the description of the carriage which doesn't quite turn into a pumpkin but it's fate becomes a pivotal point in the story.
Although Hugo was entertaining the thought of someone else, the encounter at the Ball has him setting his sights on Ophelia. Well, that and their rather spectacular one night of dalliance. Alas, Ophelia decides that the last thing she needs is a Duke who doesn't understand the idea of friendship.
Turning his attention to someone completely different after Ophelia's refusal of his suit, Hugo almost lands the children with the equivalent of what might have been a wicked stepmother. Thank goodness for the intervention of Hugo's twin sister Lady Louisa Knowe. With her subtle assistance Ophelia finally comes to realize that Hugo really is her Prince Charming.
I adored the three questions the children put to Ophelia, and her answers which so completely contrasted to those of Hugo's fiancé, a state declared by the lady herself, despite Hugo not having asked her. Need I say more?
Poor Hugo did indeed have to be rescued and fortunately Ophelia was on hand to do so.
A heartwarming story with more than a hint of a fairytale ending.
A HarperCollins ARC via NetGalley
Mad about those Wildes! (6/10/22)
Of course I was going to love Ophelia (Lady Astley) and Hugo's (the Duke of Lindow) romance. James has not disappointed.
Having adored the Wilde children's travails, this prequel provides a lively background to Hugo and Ophelia's meeting and eventual marriage. Mind you it was a close run thing as the widowed Ophelia had decided not to marry again. Why should she? She has a lovely home, running smoothly with supportive staff. Hugo decided he needed a Duchess to help organize his eight wonderfully high spirited children (well except for his rather priggish heir, Horatius).
After running away, well hastening her departure from a Ball where she was being pursued by Hugo, his jumping into her carriage takes Ophelia down a different track. All very Cinderella, especially the description of the carriage which doesn't quite turn into a pumpkin but it's fate becomes a pivotal point in the story.
Although Hugo was entertaining the thought of someone else, the encounter at the Ball has him setting his sights on Ophelia. Well, that and their rather spectacular one night of dalliance. Alas, Ophelia decides that the last thing she needs is a Duke who doesn't understand the idea of friendship.
Turning his attention to someone completely different after Ophelia's refusal of his suit, Hugo almost lands the children with the equivalent of what might have been a wicked stepmother. Thank goodness for the intervention of Hugo's twin sister Lady Louisa Knowe. With her subtle assistance Ophelia finally comes to realize that Hugo really is her Prince Charming.
I adored the three questions the children put to Ophelia, and her answers which so completely contrasted to those of Hugo's fiancé, a state declared by the lady herself, despite Hugo not having asked her. Need I say more?
Poor Hugo did indeed have to be rescued and fortunately Ophelia was on hand to do so.
A heartwarming story with more than a hint of a fairytale ending.
A HarperCollins ARC via NetGalley
September 13, 2021
Sweet INSTA-love or perhaps lust novella between a very nice and hunky Duke with the super swimmers of a Superhero (he has eight children already) and an equally nice widow with just one little chick…for now.
Lots of Von Trapp-ish kid interaction from all sides so those readers that don’t care for children in there stories beware.
As per usual with Eloisa James, this is set in Georgian England.
The manly hero wows the heroine in an embroidered pink silk coat.
Lots of Von Trapp-ish kid interaction from all sides so those readers that don’t care for children in there stories beware.
As per usual with Eloisa James, this is set in Georgian England.
The manly hero wows the heroine in an embroidered pink silk coat.
October 15, 2020
I've read and loved all of the Wilde books, so when I saw this prequel, there was absolutely no way I was missing out on it.
I love love loved Ophelia and Hugo. She's sassy and seemingly happy with her current life. Hugo is a half step away from being stoic, but ever so charming. Together, they're all sweet smiles, feisty banter, and chemistry for days. I couldn't get enough.
Plot wise, it was good. It was fairly fast paced and yet slow at the same time and yes, I know that doesn't really make sense. This story is nearly all fluff and I was here for it. There really isn't conflict, but there is an extended time apart. I will say that I could have done with more of them happy together at the end--even though I already know their HEA. I fully admit this is just me being greedy.
Overall, after reading about Ophelia and Hugo in various scenes across the series, I was thrilled to get their story. Now I want to go back and read about the Wildes again.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
I love love loved Ophelia and Hugo. She's sassy and seemingly happy with her current life. Hugo is a half step away from being stoic, but ever so charming. Together, they're all sweet smiles, feisty banter, and chemistry for days. I couldn't get enough.
Plot wise, it was good. It was fairly fast paced and yet slow at the same time and yes, I know that doesn't really make sense. This story is nearly all fluff and I was here for it. There really isn't conflict, but there is an extended time apart. I will say that I could have done with more of them happy together at the end--even though I already know their HEA. I fully admit this is just me being greedy.
Overall, after reading about Ophelia and Hugo in various scenes across the series, I was thrilled to get their story. Now I want to go back and read about the Wildes again.
**Huge thanks to Avon Books for providing the arc free of charge**
August 11, 2022
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Yes! Plenty of fun scenes and banter
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Basic plot:
The Duke is divorced from his scandalous second wife. With a brood of children to take care of, he goes to London in search of a wife that will help solidify his family, be a mother to his children, assist with the coming out of his daughters, and be a partner to himself.
Give this a try if you want:
- Some instalove feel
- Mid Georgian time period (1766)
- Shorter novel/novella length (Couldn’t find an accurate page count, but it was about 5 hours on audio)
- Lower steam – only one full scene but half of the book is spent with kisses, touches and talking
- Children in the story – the Duke has 8 or 9 kids (Sorry, can’t recall at the moment lol), and Ophelia has a daughter
- A bit of an ‘inexperienced experienced heroine’ – she has been married and had a child but I don’t believe she’s ever had an orgasm
- Full figured heroine – Ophelia talks of herself as more round and curvy
- Hero pursues/hero loves first
Ages:
- Hero is late 30s, not sure about heroine but would guess mid 20s?
My thoughts:
I really loved this novella. I adore hero pursues and so I was just giddy with the first half of this story. I found humor, banter, sweetness, kisses, and getting to know you butterflies. I just really, really loved it.
I did struggle a touch at the mid book separation. But as the ending came to a head and we realized the full story line and what the hero had somehow gotten roped into
The characters are fun and full of personality and bring the story to life. Aunt Knowe is a favorite. I would so love for her to have her own story. She deserves a HEA. I just loved the ending of the book and how everything was resolved. It was just super cute, sweet and exactly what I was in the mood for.
This and Ophelia’s daughter’s story (Say Yes to the Duke) are my favorites of the series (though I haven’t read Wilde Child yet ;) ) I just thought it was a super cute novella!
A few other notes:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes: (these are taken from audiobook, might be a bit off)
Plot/Storyline: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥
Humor: Yes! Plenty of fun scenes and banter
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
(These are all personal preference on a scale of 1-5 (yours ratings may vary depending what gives you feels and how you prefer you sex scenes written, etc) except the Steam Scale which follows our chart from The Ton and Tartans Book Club )
Basic plot:
The Duke is divorced from his scandalous second wife. With a brood of children to take care of, he goes to London in search of a wife that will help solidify his family, be a mother to his children, assist with the coming out of his daughters, and be a partner to himself.
Give this a try if you want:
- Some instalove feel
- Mid Georgian time period (1766)
- Shorter novel/novella length (Couldn’t find an accurate page count, but it was about 5 hours on audio)
- Lower steam – only one full scene but half of the book is spent with kisses, touches and talking
- Children in the story – the Duke has 8 or 9 kids (Sorry, can’t recall at the moment lol), and Ophelia has a daughter
- A bit of an ‘inexperienced experienced heroine’ – she has been married and had a child but I don’t believe she’s ever had an orgasm
- Full figured heroine – Ophelia talks of herself as more round and curvy
- Hero pursues/hero loves first
Ages:
- Hero is late 30s, not sure about heroine but would guess mid 20s?
My thoughts:
I really loved this novella. I adore hero pursues and so I was just giddy with the first half of this story. I found humor, banter, sweetness, kisses, and getting to know you butterflies. I just really, really loved it.
I did struggle a touch at the mid book separation. But as the ending came to a head and we realized the full story line and what the hero had somehow gotten roped into
The characters are fun and full of personality and bring the story to life. Aunt Knowe is a favorite. I would so love for her to have her own story. She deserves a HEA. I just loved the ending of the book and how everything was resolved. It was just super cute, sweet and exactly what I was in the mood for.
This and Ophelia’s daughter’s story (Say Yes to the Duke) are my favorites of the series (though I haven’t read Wilde Child yet ;) ) I just thought it was a super cute novella!
A few other notes:
Content warnings:
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes: (these are taken from audiobook, might be a bit off)
March 4, 2022
This was 10000% instalove but.... I didn't care! I just thought this was lovely, charming, and exactly what I was in the mood for. I enjoyed the way it showed characters who really enjoyed being parents in a period where that class wasn't expected to be emotionally invested in their children to a big extent- not something I personally relate to, but it was well captured. And of course, some good mushy moments. Just a nice historical all around, and enjoyed having a less common period portrayed (1760s)
February 10, 2021
3.5-4 Stars 🤷🏻♀️
Overall Opinion: When I read this blurb I was instantly sold! I was thinking a Sound of Music type story...minus the nun...minus the governess...minus the nazis — okay so not so much 😅 I was intruiged by the idea of interactions with the H’s 8 kids. Yes! 8 😳! While we got a little bit of that, it wasn’t nearly enough. I think it could’ve been SO much better to experience the h and them more! This ended at 61% in my kindle app. I hate it when authors do that!! The ending always sneaks up on me (and never in a good way) when they chose to include some other content. I was thinking “awesome, they’re together and I still have 40% of the book to experience her moving in, joining their families, and their HEA!” But no. It went right to an epilogue. I wanted to scream because this had sooooo much potential even at that point. I’m honestly unsure how I want to rate this, because it was super enjoyable but I felt left hanging in a major way. I might also look into the rest of the series just to get a potential glimpse of them in their future...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ophelia and Hugh’s story. Ophelia is attending her first outing after ~2 years of mourning her husband’s death. Hugh is at the the same ball on a mission to find a new wife and mother for his 8 children after a scandalous divorce. For Hugh it is love at first sight, for Ophelia she feels lust for the first time. When Ophelia offers an affair but not a marriage, Hugh knows that won’t work for him and they separate. There are some funny scenes, some cute moments with the children, and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Ophelia and Hugh in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Kind of
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Hugh. I really liked him. He was a great combo of sexy, sweet, and caring.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Ophelia. I liked her but she was a little too wishy-washy for me at times (might also be because I liked the H so much and she pushed him away)
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: Super frustrating! This is admittedly my own fault because I saw that this was a prequel type book, but I honestly thought it’d be a complete story to explain how the parents got together similar to The Stolen Mackenzie Bride — but no! It has a cute epilogue but even that was way too short and nowhere near enough for this greedy reader! I would still call it a HEA ending though...while grumbling
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: When I read this blurb I was instantly sold! I was thinking a Sound of Music type story...minus the nun...minus the governess...minus the nazis — okay so not so much 😅 I was intruiged by the idea of interactions with the H’s 8 kids. Yes! 8 😳! While we got a little bit of that, it wasn’t nearly enough. I think it could’ve been SO much better to experience the h and them more! This ended at 61% in my kindle app. I hate it when authors do that!! The ending always sneaks up on me (and never in a good way) when they chose to include some other content. I was thinking “awesome, they’re together and I still have 40% of the book to experience her moving in, joining their families, and their HEA!” But no. It went right to an epilogue. I wanted to scream because this had sooooo much potential even at that point. I’m honestly unsure how I want to rate this, because it was super enjoyable but I felt left hanging in a major way. I might also look into the rest of the series just to get a potential glimpse of them in their future...
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Ophelia and Hugh’s story. Ophelia is attending her first outing after ~2 years of mourning her husband’s death. Hugh is at the the same ball on a mission to find a new wife and mother for his 8 children after a scandalous divorce. For Hugh it is love at first sight, for Ophelia she feels lust for the first time. When Ophelia offers an affair but not a marriage, Hugh knows that won’t work for him and they separate. There are some funny scenes, some cute moments with the children, and some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between focusing on Ophelia and Hugh in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good until the end. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well otherwise.
Instalove: Kind of
H (Hero) rating: 4.5 stars. Hugh. I really liked him. He was a great combo of sexy, sweet, and caring.
h (heroine) rating: 3.5 stars. Ophelia. I liked her but she was a little too wishy-washy for me at times (might also be because I liked the H so much and she pushed him away)
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Good. They have some good tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: Yes
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: Super frustrating! This is admittedly my own fault because I saw that this was a prequel type book, but I honestly thought it’d be a complete story to explain how the parents got together similar to The Stolen Mackenzie Bride — but no! It has a cute epilogue but even that was way too short and nowhere near enough for this greedy reader! I would still call it a HEA ending though...while grumbling
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
September 2, 2024
Note to self: Have pb copy for LFL - Spotify has it available so maybe read it that way instead tomorrow.
This started out cute enough but it lost me. The romance was meh and underdeveloped and the addition of a ridiculous rival was so incredibly annoying and a complete waste of space. The kids were adorable and I usually hate them in a romance so at least there was that.
2.5 bumped up to a 3.
This started out cute enough but it lost me. The romance was meh and underdeveloped and the addition of a ridiculous rival was so incredibly annoying and a complete waste of space. The kids were adorable and I usually hate them in a romance so at least there was that.
2.5 bumped up to a 3.
October 28, 2020
Title: My Last Duchess
Series: The Wildes of Lindlow Castle #6/0.5
Author: Eloisa James
Release date: October 27, 2020
Cliffhanger: no
Genre: historical romance
“We have a choice in every moment of life,” he said, his voice brushing her body. “I choose to spend every possible one of them with you, Phee.”
I'm loving this series and the Wildes so much! Once again, Eloisa James has charmed me-this time with the Duke and Duchess of Lindlow. My Last Duchess takes us back in time to show us how the parents of the Wilde children met and fell in love. This was a simple and straightforward romance that allowed me to surround myself with the Wildes again and enjoy their endearing family dynamic. I'm so happy the author decided to give us this piece to the family's history.
Hugo is a widower and recent divorcé with eight children in need of a proper mother. His last wife Yvette ran off after a scandalous affair and abandoned the family leaving him floundering. I've always had the deepest respect for Hugo, but now after reading his story and stepping into his perspective, you really see how deep his love goes for all of his children. He always puts them first above all else and makes their happiness and well being his #1 priority. After being betrayed horribly by his wife, his only goal is to find a new wife (which he really has no personal desire to attain) in order for his kids to have stability in their lives again. Not only does he show them all the love that they deserve, he treats them all equally. Even though he shares no blood with his ward Parth, and possibly Joan who is suspected to be fathered by another, no one is made to feel less. Naturally, if he's forced to marry again after his last disastrous marriage, he would look for a woman more maternal. A woman like Lady Ophelia Astley.
You, his soul said. You too. It was the same feeling he had had after each newborn child was presented to him: the moment in which the world adjusted so that his heart could recognize one of his tribe. One of his beloveds.
Ophelia is a recent widow with a young daughter whom she's intensely devoted to. Her marriage had been civil, pleasant, and probably more than a little boring. While mutual respect and friendship is more than a lot of aristocratic wives achieve in their marriages, passion and romance is certainly rare. Her marital relationship was satisfactory, but now she happily focuses all of her time and attention to Viola.
Most women were not expected to take a hands-on approach to raising their children at that time. Nannies and other caregivers did the messy day to day work involved while they enjoy their freedom to socialize with the ton. Ophelia shuns the societal norm and revels in motherhood which I found to be really refreshing. So many historical romances feature feminist themes with heroines who want no part of marriage or children. They're brave, brash, and rare creatures of the time who want a career or the freedom to pursue other interests. Don't get me wrong, these are enjoyable. But sometimes it's nice to read an old fashioned romance that celebrates motherhood and the value that a mother has in her children's lives. When Ophelia steps into the Wilde childrens' lives, she gives them a home life that helps them grow into the wonderful adults we see later.
It's essentially a case of love at first sight when the two of them meet at a ball. At least for Hugo, that is. From the moment he sets eyes on her, he starts to believe he's capable of having the love he found with his first wife Marie once again.
His life had jerked to a halt with Marie’s death. In the years since, he took care of the estate, went through the motions of being married to Yvette, tried to be the best father he could to the children. But now, unexpectedly, strangely, with no more than the sight of a tantalizing woman . . . His heart was thumping in a rhythm he’d forgotten.
Yes, it's an insta-love scenario, which I didn't mind in this case. While Hugo immediately goes into passionate pursuit, Ophelia backs off in retreat. They don't go from point A to point B in a heartbeat-it's a little more complicated than that. While Ophelia loves her role of being a mother, she doesn't feel the need to remarry again because she never really found fulfillment with her first husband. She has financial security, and the freedom to do what she chooses, when she chooses to do it. And yet...Hugo's passionate promises of a future together niggle away at her willpower to remain alone. The chemistry the two of them have is instantaneous, and for her, very unsettling. She was willing to share a passionate night together, and he wanted her promise to share a future together. After coming to a stalemate, they were forced to move on. Or were they?
One of my favorite things about the Wildes is Hugo's amazing sister, Lady Knowe. She's smart, sassy, and hilariously keeps her brother and the rest of the family in line. I really enjoyed seeing her interact with the family again, and laughing over the witty dialogue. She knows her brother better than anyone else, and sometimes she has to give him a little nudge of encouragement in the right direction. The direction is heart is pleading with him to go.
“Don’t tell me again that you made up your mind for her that she’d be better off without you. You have moments when I think the title has addled your brains, and this is one of them. Your job is to grovel at her feet and beg her for marriage. Do you hear me?”
The children were just delightful as always, and the romance warmed my heart as I watched it take root and bloom. If you're a fan of the series, but hadn't decided if you want to read the parents' prequel, don't hesitate! It was such a light, fast, and sweet read that gave me the best historical romance feels.
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November 21, 2020
This is a well-written, entertaining, fast paced, steamy, historical romance novel. It has likable, engaging characters, a heart warming romance, wit, humor, and a happily ever after ending. It can easily be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, as a prequel to Ms. James' other outstanding Wilde novels, or after reading each of the amazing Wilde stories, which I have done. Ms. James never disappoints her readers!
May 3, 2024
A lovely, romantic prequel to the Wildes of Lindow Castle series. Most of the books in the series are about the various Wilde children, but this one goes back in time to their father the Duke of Lindow and his search for 'his last duchess', someone to be a mother to his many children, but also someone he can love and who will love him.
Phee (Ophelia) is a widow with a small daughter, and she's not really looking to marry again. There is instant mutual attraction when they meet, and there is a lovely scene with a ride at night through a snowy park in London as they start to get to know each other.
In her inimitable fashion, Ms James unwinds their story beautifully. After an initial false start, they soon realise they are right for each other. A lovely scene at a Frost Fair on the frozen river Thames helps them to clarify their feelings for each other. It's great to see the children (who we meet as adults in the other books) when they are young: their relationships to each other, their father, and also to the delightful Lady Knowe, their father's twin sister who has been a kind of mother to them. A short novel (or long novella) but a very nice story and well worth the read.
Phee (Ophelia) is a widow with a small daughter, and she's not really looking to marry again. There is instant mutual attraction when they meet, and there is a lovely scene with a ride at night through a snowy park in London as they start to get to know each other.
In her inimitable fashion, Ms James unwinds their story beautifully. After an initial false start, they soon realise they are right for each other. A lovely scene at a Frost Fair on the frozen river Thames helps them to clarify their feelings for each other. It's great to see the children (who we meet as adults in the other books) when they are young: their relationships to each other, their father, and also to the delightful Lady Knowe, their father's twin sister who has been a kind of mother to them. A short novel (or long novella) but a very nice story and well worth the read.
November 4, 2020
My Last Duchess is a prequel to the series where we get to see how Hugo and Ophelia first met and got together. It's a lovely romance, even if it gets serious very quickly. Then again, maybe that's less shocking given the time period.
Ophelia is a widow with a very young daughter who she dotes on. Hugo is a widow and recent divorcee (his second wife ran off with her lover and left their children behind) with 8 children and a dukedom to manage. He intends to find a bride he's not romantically interested in to help his daughters debut, but instead he meets Ophelia. He's instantly drawn to her, but Ophelia is resistant to the idea of marrying again.
I enjoyed seeing the development of their romance and how their mutual love for their children only enhanced the attraction between them. It's also fun to see younger versions of the characters we know from earlier books in the series. AND it is the perfect book for winter as their first meeting is during a snowstorm and they take the children to a winter festival. This is definitely worth a read. I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Ophelia is a widow with a very young daughter who she dotes on. Hugo is a widow and recent divorcee (his second wife ran off with her lover and left their children behind) with 8 children and a dukedom to manage. He intends to find a bride he's not romantically interested in to help his daughters debut, but instead he meets Ophelia. He's instantly drawn to her, but Ophelia is resistant to the idea of marrying again.
I enjoyed seeing the development of their romance and how their mutual love for their children only enhanced the attraction between them. It's also fun to see younger versions of the characters we know from earlier books in the series. AND it is the perfect book for winter as their first meeting is during a snowstorm and they take the children to a winter festival. This is definitely worth a read. I received an advance copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
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March 2, 2023nothing oozes robust virility quite like a duke with considerable influence in the house of lords and an entire brood of *counts on hand* EIGHT offspring telling his woman “Experience suggests that I have energetic seed, so I will do my best to protect you” with the very same mouth with which he then proceeds to go to town on her tits just moments later 🙈
my first eloisa james’ read and ahhh this woman be bold 💅
my first eloisa james’ read and ahhh this woman be bold 💅
April 3, 2025
Hugo Wilde, Duke of Lindow, is ready to remarry: he needs an ally to deal with his eight children. When he sees Ophelia, the widowed Lady Astley, out and about his decision is made: it her. He follows her home, proposes, they get naked, they do not bone (although he does produce a condom like DAMN A REAL BOY SCOUT ALL UP IN HERE), he proposes again, she declines, he leaves, he finds an alternative potential duchess, his sister intervenes, he meets Ophelia again, they ditch the alternative potential duchess, accepted proposals, sex, roll credits.
DEEP BREATH.
1. Like, it's a lot but it's cute! It holds together! It's not a deep romance filled with emotional discovery and growth and whatnot: it's just two adults who got the tingles for one another deciding they're in love. It's fine!
2. While Hugo isn't my favorite hero ever, I did appreciate how he decided what he wanted and went for it. And while he absolutely does insert himself into Ophelia's carriage, he also gets himself lost after she declines his proposal.
3. The communication in this was decent: Hugo says a few things that are misconstrued, but he (eventually) figures it out and he and Ophelia (for the most part) make sure they're understanding one another. Ultimately, because they're mostly on the same page so it's not a huge thing but it was....nice.
4. I think more time should have been spent on them having a few more honest conversations with one another, vs. the semi-farce things turned into as the ladies chase away the unwanted potential duchess and then drink themselves into stupors. Just...odd.
DEEP BREATH.
1. Like, it's a lot but it's cute! It holds together! It's not a deep romance filled with emotional discovery and growth and whatnot: it's just two adults who got the tingles for one another deciding they're in love. It's fine!
2. While Hugo isn't my favorite hero ever, I did appreciate how he decided what he wanted and went for it. And while he absolutely does insert himself into Ophelia's carriage, he also gets himself lost after she declines his proposal.
3. The communication in this was decent: Hugo says a few things that are misconstrued, but he (eventually) figures it out and he and Ophelia (for the most part) make sure they're understanding one another. Ultimately, because they're mostly on the same page so it's not a huge thing but it was....nice.
4. I think more time should have been spent on them having a few more honest conversations with one another, vs. the semi-farce things turned into as the ladies chase away the unwanted potential duchess and then drink themselves into stupors. Just...odd.
October 26, 2020
I got the original story because I always pre-order Eloisa's books and I was so happy to hear that she's adding scenes to the story. I don't remember the original(booo me), but I can't imagine the story not as it is now.
It starts with Ophelia seeing a dashing, handsome gentleman being mobbed when he arrives at the first party she goes to out of mourning. She doesn't know who he is but she feels there's something there. Obviously she doesn't want to have anything to do with him. Hugo feels someone's gaze on him, and he's also at his first party after he's been granted divorce from his 2nd wife. He almost falls in love at first sight, but he puts it otherwise.
What ensures is Ophelia leaving as fast as possible and Hugo trying to stop her with no luck. Then the fun stuff happens, Hugo goes after her and enters her carriage and I loved him, her and the story from that moment.
Eloisa writes such human characters and they have flaws and they don't see themselves as they are, or at least as their significant other does and this is what makes me love her books. She's also unapologetic in writing about the aristocracy and almost always about the rich and the highest in the land. Whenever I pick one of her books I know I will have fun reading it and that I will fall in love with the main characters but also with all the secondary characters as well.
If you want to find out if you'll enjoy Eloisa's Wilde series or her style, try this book. Also, what took you so long in trying her work?
It starts with Ophelia seeing a dashing, handsome gentleman being mobbed when he arrives at the first party she goes to out of mourning. She doesn't know who he is but she feels there's something there. Obviously she doesn't want to have anything to do with him. Hugo feels someone's gaze on him, and he's also at his first party after he's been granted divorce from his 2nd wife. He almost falls in love at first sight, but he puts it otherwise.
What ensures is Ophelia leaving as fast as possible and Hugo trying to stop her with no luck. Then the fun stuff happens, Hugo goes after her and enters her carriage and I loved him, her and the story from that moment.
Eloisa writes such human characters and they have flaws and they don't see themselves as they are, or at least as their significant other does and this is what makes me love her books. She's also unapologetic in writing about the aristocracy and almost always about the rich and the highest in the land. Whenever I pick one of her books I know I will have fun reading it and that I will fall in love with the main characters but also with all the secondary characters as well.
If you want to find out if you'll enjoy Eloisa's Wilde series or her style, try this book. Also, what took you so long in trying her work?
December 28, 2021
I thought that this is a full-length novel based on the no of pages listed here but apparently it isn't. This is a novella. There's another novella in this e-book and it's for her fairy tale series.
This was just okay for me. I expected more wooing from the hero, Hugo. Hugo saw Ophelia at a house party and was immediately smitten by her. He pursued her on the night itself and offered marriage, but Ophelia turned him down. He turned his attention to someone else (like immediately!) who is totally inappropriate to be a mother to his 8 children. They only got together due to Hugo's sister machinations. If you met someone whom you think could be the love of your life, shouldn't you exert all possible efforts to win the person? That's the part I didn't quite like. Sure, he thought about her at all times, but that's just it. Just thoughts and no action. I understand Ophelia's hesitation. She is a wealthy widow and is wary of giving up her independence. She definitely has a lot more to lose in the marriage. Furthermore, Hugo has a brood of children. That would definitely give anyone pause.
The romance is a bit tepid for me. The writing is exquisite as usual and you get to read about the children as well who are featured in the next books. A nice introduction to this series. If you're looking for an hour or 2 to fill up your time, this is a decent read.
This was just okay for me. I expected more wooing from the hero, Hugo. Hugo saw Ophelia at a house party and was immediately smitten by her. He pursued her on the night itself and offered marriage, but Ophelia turned him down. He turned his attention to someone else (like immediately!) who is totally inappropriate to be a mother to his 8 children. They only got together due to Hugo's sister machinations. If you met someone whom you think could be the love of your life, shouldn't you exert all possible efforts to win the person? That's the part I didn't quite like. Sure, he thought about her at all times, but that's just it. Just thoughts and no action. I understand Ophelia's hesitation. She is a wealthy widow and is wary of giving up her independence. She definitely has a lot more to lose in the marriage. Furthermore, Hugo has a brood of children. That would definitely give anyone pause.
The romance is a bit tepid for me. The writing is exquisite as usual and you get to read about the children as well who are featured in the next books. A nice introduction to this series. If you're looking for an hour or 2 to fill up your time, this is a decent read.
October 7, 2021
My Last Duchess is a book I read a couple weeks ago but just realized that I hadn't done a review for it so here we go here.
I will say that this book, I am not sure I got the full version of to be honest. I read this through Libby but I don't see how I read 400 pages, because it felt like I read a novella...literally. Or I somehow just breezed through 300 pages that I don't remember ( I guess its possible but I am still so confused ....HAHA)
The story of My Last Duchess was actually such a sweet story. It delves into an aspect of the heroine going on the run, because her fiancee is not a man she can actually marry. Our hero is the butler to a foreign residing royal family who is his brother but as he is a bastard, he has no standing or wealth to speak of and even though he is destitute he has a sense of honor. And if he can't find a way to be worthy of Ophelia, then he will have to let her go forever.
I actually found this story to be so endearing and charming, I love these type of forbidden love tropes and seeing characters fight for each other, it makes the ending that much sweeter in them finding a way to conquer the obstacles. This is such a great prequel to the series and eager to see more of the Wildes in the near future.
I will say that this book, I am not sure I got the full version of to be honest. I read this through Libby but I don't see how I read 400 pages, because it felt like I read a novella...literally. Or I somehow just breezed through 300 pages that I don't remember ( I guess its possible but I am still so confused ....HAHA)
The story of My Last Duchess was actually such a sweet story. It delves into an aspect of the heroine going on the run, because her fiancee is not a man she can actually marry. Our hero is the butler to a foreign residing royal family who is his brother but as he is a bastard, he has no standing or wealth to speak of and even though he is destitute he has a sense of honor. And if he can't find a way to be worthy of Ophelia, then he will have to let her go forever.
I actually found this story to be so endearing and charming, I love these type of forbidden love tropes and seeing characters fight for each other, it makes the ending that much sweeter in them finding a way to conquer the obstacles. This is such a great prequel to the series and eager to see more of the Wildes in the near future.
November 2, 2020
I had read the few chapters of this novella when it was serialized before publication, so I expected more from the story. In hindsight, since I haven't cared much for the Wildes, I should have passed on this one.
Introducing a fiancée - to whom the duke did not propose but the woman decided he'd do for a husband -was bizarre and served little purpose beyond creating conflict, which ruined the story for me. There was little courtship between the main characters and their relationship did not get much traction because they had only a handful of conversations, during which the relationship did not get a chance to flourish. Yet, somehow, the characters fell in love. I didn't feel the spark, though, and the love scenes that were crammed into the story didn't help any. Just the opposite, by taking up valuable space that could have been otherwise occupied with meaningful interaction outside of the bedroom, the love scenes took the last off the story's appeal.
Introducing a fiancée - to whom the duke did not propose but the woman decided he'd do for a husband -was bizarre and served little purpose beyond creating conflict, which ruined the story for me. There was little courtship between the main characters and their relationship did not get much traction because they had only a handful of conversations, during which the relationship did not get a chance to flourish. Yet, somehow, the characters fell in love. I didn't feel the spark, though, and the love scenes that were crammed into the story didn't help any. Just the opposite, by taking up valuable space that could have been otherwise occupied with meaningful interaction outside of the bedroom, the love scenes took the last off the story's appeal.
July 31, 2020
3.5 out of 5 stars. This is a sweet short novel that gives us the story of the Duke of Lindow and his third wife, Ophelia, Lady Astley. It's a bit insta-love-y for my taste. They have approximately three encounters (they meet at a party, they meet at a Frost Fair, and they meet at a dinner after the opera) - all of those encounters are good and they have great dialog, but I didn't quite get them "together". But it was a nice, quick read and a good end to the early teasers Eloisa sent as gifts to readers who submitted proof of purchase for her Wilde series.
And I still want a novel of Lady Knowe, because she HAS TO have a heck of a story.
And I still want a novel of Lady Knowe, because she HAS TO have a heck of a story.
April 6, 2023
2.5 stars ✧
the very beginning was good, rest was boring because I HATE insta-love and I was disappointed that I didn’t get to see the main girl and guy build a relationship with each other’s kids
the very beginning was good, rest was boring because I HATE insta-love and I was disappointed that I didn’t get to see the main girl and guy build a relationship with each other’s kids
January 24, 2021
I quite enjoyed this.
A solid 3.5
A solid 3.5
April 25, 2021
**2.5 stars**
I swear, historical romance is becoming worst and worst. Most of the situations that happened in this book would have never flown. If you're going to write a book this out of time, why not write a modern one? (And yes, I know it's a prequel and probably the author had to retrofit the story based on what she already wrote, but still.)
❌ The Duke approaches her without being introduced..in the middle of a ballroom. This seemed so out of place that I wouldn't have been surprised if he had yelled "hey you!"
❌ She invites him to spend the night at her house the first night they met. There was a reason but still. And she probably would have been ruined afterwards, widow or not. (It wasn't like he sneaked around. The neighbors should have seen him come out with last night's clothes!!)
❌ The "rival" for the Duke's affections announces they are betrothed...without him asking. This would have been a great faux pas today but can you imagine back then? No woman of class and distinction (and this was a lady in waiting to the Queen, no less!) would have announced such a thing without it being true, no matter that the signs pointed to it.
❌ He's able to get rid out of this "engagement" without any scandal. Once he didn't contradict his supposed fiance, this engagement was as good as done. Getting out of it would have caused a terrible scandal.
❌ The sub-plot with the cousin. Men not having legitimate male heirs was an issue for a reason. Has this author heard of Henry VIII? The man changed the course of history for the promise of a son!! What the cousin was doing was illegal, incredibly hard to get away with and likely to be discovered. I'm sure some people did it and got away with it but not if it was done this blatantly. They were almost winking at each other in public!!
I'm adding a half star because I liked the brood of children and the relationship between the Duke and his sister. Not sure if I'll continue the series.
I swear, historical romance is becoming worst and worst. Most of the situations that happened in this book would have never flown. If you're going to write a book this out of time, why not write a modern one? (And yes, I know it's a prequel and probably the author had to retrofit the story based on what she already wrote, but still.)
❌ The Duke approaches her without being introduced..in the middle of a ballroom. This seemed so out of place that I wouldn't have been surprised if he had yelled "hey you!"
❌ She invites him to spend the night at her house the first night they met. There was a reason but still. And she probably would have been ruined afterwards, widow or not. (It wasn't like he sneaked around. The neighbors should have seen him come out with last night's clothes!!)
❌ The "rival" for the Duke's affections announces they are betrothed...without him asking. This would have been a great faux pas today but can you imagine back then? No woman of class and distinction (and this was a lady in waiting to the Queen, no less!) would have announced such a thing without it being true, no matter that the signs pointed to it.
❌ He's able to get rid out of this "engagement" without any scandal. Once he didn't contradict his supposed fiance, this engagement was as good as done. Getting out of it would have caused a terrible scandal.
❌ The sub-plot with the cousin. Men not having legitimate male heirs was an issue for a reason. Has this author heard of Henry VIII? The man changed the course of history for the promise of a son!! What the cousin was doing was illegal, incredibly hard to get away with and likely to be discovered. I'm sure some people did it and got away with it but not if it was done this blatantly. They were almost winking at each other in public!!
I'm adding a half star because I liked the brood of children and the relationship between the Duke and his sister. Not sure if I'll continue the series.
May 22, 2024
Duke of Linlow Children: Roland(North), Alric, Parth(adopted brother), Boadecia(Betsy), Viola (Ophelia's daughter), Joan. These are the children in the book series. There are other children: Horatius (died age eleven), younger sister Artemesia (Ophelia mother).
https://top10romancebooks.com/reviews...
Review I liked:
The first part of the book immediately develops the relationship at warp speed. Then thankfully things slow down. But then at the end it speeds up again and ends before you know it. In summary, this book felt a bit like a bad pacing roller coaster, which is a shame because the middle part (with the more normal pacing) was pretty good.
I will say I have only read two of the other books in this series, so all the many Wilde children and their parents were not very familiar to me. This wasn't a problem as this was a prequel for the series and introduces everything you need to know. But I imagine you probably will just enjoy the brief glimpses of the children more if you have already read their books.
Review I liked:
This has never been my favorite installment of the series (I was reading it serialized before it was a full novella), but it was good to see it wrapped up with a satisfying ending. I just wish the attraction between Hugo and Ophelia was more believable. Not that it's impossible to see someone across a room and be attracted, but they have barely one conversation and it goes from attraction to making out, and then to soft squishy feelings while separated, then barely one more conversation and then they're getting married. It felt lazy, I know Eloisa James can do better. This felt like a book someone was pushing her to write that she just wasn't interested enough in to do the work.
https://top10romancebooks.com/reviews...
Review I liked:
The first part of the book immediately develops the relationship at warp speed. Then thankfully things slow down. But then at the end it speeds up again and ends before you know it. In summary, this book felt a bit like a bad pacing roller coaster, which is a shame because the middle part (with the more normal pacing) was pretty good.
I will say I have only read two of the other books in this series, so all the many Wilde children and their parents were not very familiar to me. This wasn't a problem as this was a prequel for the series and introduces everything you need to know. But I imagine you probably will just enjoy the brief glimpses of the children more if you have already read their books.
Review I liked:
This has never been my favorite installment of the series (I was reading it serialized before it was a full novella), but it was good to see it wrapped up with a satisfying ending. I just wish the attraction between Hugo and Ophelia was more believable. Not that it's impossible to see someone across a room and be attracted, but they have barely one conversation and it goes from attraction to making out, and then to soft squishy feelings while separated, then barely one more conversation and then they're getting married. It felt lazy, I know Eloisa James can do better. This felt like a book someone was pushing her to write that she just wasn't interested enough in to do the work.
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November 15, 2020Am I the black sheep on this one? My Last Duchess felt really rushed to me.
This is a prequel novel (it's 250 pages so not really a novella) about the Wilde family. I have read books two and three of the series and enjoyed them, but this one was not really for me.
Hugo Wilde, father of eight children with two different wives (one died, then other ran off) falls instantly in love with Lady Ophelia, who is a widow with one child. Then he sort of pushily tells her she's going to marry him. But he just keeps pining after Ophelia until she finally gives in.
That's about it. There are some scenes with his children and her children, all of whom interact charmingly in Brady Bunch style. But the whole dynamic of this was weird and hurried and even a little stalker-y for me.
Read more of my reviews on JenRyland.com! Let's be friends on Bookstagram!
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
This is a prequel novel (it's 250 pages so not really a novella) about the Wilde family. I have read books two and three of the series and enjoyed them, but this one was not really for me.
Hugo Wilde, father of eight children with two different wives (one died, then other ran off) falls instantly in love with Lady Ophelia, who is a widow with one child. Then he sort of pushily tells her she's going to marry him. But he just keeps pining after Ophelia until she finally gives in.
That's about it. There are some scenes with his children and her children, all of whom interact charmingly in Brady Bunch style. But the whole dynamic of this was weird and hurried and even a little stalker-y for me.
Read more of my reviews on JenRyland.com! Let's be friends on Bookstagram!
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
October 31, 2020
Eloisa James is a fantastic writer but most of her stories of pop culture in historical romance settings don’t do it for me. This is a prequel to the Wilde’s series (which I’m not a big fan of) The story was meh. The catapult to no I won’t marry you to yes I will was without much preamble. Found it boring.
March 23, 2021
Even though it is a novella, it was such a bore. The sparks between h/h are missing. And I can't even bother to remember the kids name.
Skip it!
Skip it!
January 20, 2023
I’m so confused! If the author writes the prequel to a series after she’s written the series, which do you read first? I read the prequel (and wasn’t confused by the introductions of the 8 children who will feature in the other books). But then I discovered that the prequel is actually a novella and this Kindle edition of the book contains this novella plus another novella from a different series…which falls between books 1 and 2 of that series…I guess I’ll read it anyway, even though I haven’t read the first book. Anyway, back to My Last Duchess…like all novellas, it comes to a somewhat abrupt conclusion but it was a fun story. I haven’t read Eloisa James for awhile and had forgotten how much I enjoy her historical romances.
May 22, 2022
Wat een fijn begin van de serie . Ik ben blij dat ik gewacht heb met het lezen van deze serie tot ik dit boek ook in mijn bezit had .
Het gaat hier weliswaar om wat oudere personen die beide al kinderen uit een vorig huwelijk hebben maar E.J. weet de magie van het hals over kop verliefd worden en dat het dus ook op latere leeftijd nog kan gebeuren mooi in een verhaal te vatten .
Het gaat hier weliswaar om wat oudere personen die beide al kinderen uit een vorig huwelijk hebben maar E.J. weet de magie van het hals over kop verliefd worden en dat het dus ook op latere leeftijd nog kan gebeuren mooi in een verhaal te vatten .
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