The Rigid Duke

The Rigid Duke

Matchmaking Chronicles #1

Darcy Burke

★★★★☆

Since being widowed less than year into her marriage, Juno Langton has found joy and a career in helping young ladies prepare for their Season. She accompanies her current charge to a house party with the purpose of helping match the young lady with the Duke of Warrington. Both the Duke and Marina are quiet, shy people and fail to make a connection. But when the Duke finds himself thinking more about Juno, he can’t deny she brings him to life. Juno isn’t looking for marriage, but she can’t deny the attraction between them. What starts as an attraction will grow to be much more! 

The Plot

The first part of the book was Juno trying to get the Duke and Marina, her charge, to make a match. I felt bad for them both as they clearly weren’t suited, even though their personalities were very similar. That time did allow the Duke and Juno to get to know each other, especially in the Orangery. I loved how the Duke spoke his true thoughts and feelings to Juno; he didn’t have a lot of angst about falling for her cheerful personality. Their banter back and forth was adorable and made me laugh several times. This was an easy read and I was glad there was no drama between Marina and Juno over the Duke as I kept fearing there might be.

The Heroine

Juno Langton is a cheerful, look at the sunny side of life person. After being disowned by her family for her first marriage and having said husband turn out to be a drunk who died less than year into her marriage, she found a way to still have a fulfilling life working with young ladies. She is optimistic and funny and the exact opposite of Dare. 

The Hero

Dare, the Duke of Warrington is a grumpy, set in his ways man who sees no reason to pretend to enjoy anything or anyone. He prefers to spend his time alone and outdoors. He know he must marry so he tries to make it work with Marina, but he finds her companion annoying, too cheerful…and intriguing. He softens his edges around Juno and when he realizes she understands him better than anyone, he can’t let her go!

The Steam

Slow to build, but passionate when they finally come together!

Stand Out Moment

Probably when he appears in her room to some fun and just takes sweet and dirty to her! 

Who Would Like This

Anyone who appreciates a fun, opposites attract trope turned passionate!

Final Thoughts

It was a great, quick read with a cute romance between the two main characters!

Tropes

Widow, titled hero, class difference, Marriage mart, Opposites attract, Matchmaker, house party, grumpy-sunshine, Country setting