Romancing the Duke
Romancing the Duke by Tessa Dare
Published in 2014
Main Couple: Izzy and Ransom
The Story: Izzy receives an unexpected inheritance not a moment too soon, a castle in the middle of no where. When she arrives, she discovers that castle is already occupied by the Duke of Rothbury. When the battle of wits and patience begins who will come out the owner?
The Sex: Why does every losing of one’s virginity get described as a magical moment where their vagina can go from never being penetrated to having a “magnificent” cock in it with no problems?? I think I gotta just…suspend my disbelief. Izzy has resigned herself to life as a spinster, so when presented with her first, and she believes, her only chance at a passionate experience she takes it. Ransom was a HUGE rake before the start of this story. I know we see him in a sorry state, but what we hear about his past exploits is….very debauched. With his experienced past, it wasn’t clear whether he was going to be a good “fit” for deflowering Izzy. However, despite his aggressive tendencies, he always checks with Izzy to confirm his advances are welcome. The sparks fly between the two of them as Izzy learns her own passions and Ransom is given the opportunity to reawaken his.
Favorite Lines:
“When it came to physical pleasure, he was aggressive, bold, and unashamed of it.” Chapter 6 Don’t be ashamed!!!!
“Worst of all, her mind was a buzzing hive of curiosity. When it came to a man’s organ, just what constituted “magnificence” anyhow?” Chapter 8 This is why I can’t trust the supposed size of so many MMCs. If you don’t know what a penis is supposed to look like, how can you say it’s large?
“Isolde Ophelia Goodnight, kiss me. With every ounce of passion In your soul.” Chapter 10 Thank you, sir! What a sexy as fuck invitation!!!
“‘If you don’t want this, tell me.’ His voice was hoarse. ‘You don’t have to scream. You don’t have to push me away. You’ve only to say it.’” Chapter 16 The way he said this, made me feel like his was truly listening to her and offering her the option to stop. Sadly, I don’t think that happens often in situations like this.
“In the end, she decided to ask for guidance. She put her hand in Ransom’s. ‘Show me how to please you.’” Chapter 18 Always a good idea when you’re trying something new with a partner. Ask them what they like and do that.
Least Favorite Lines:
“He reached between them and pressed his thumb to her pearl,” Chapter 18 I don’t like the use of the word pearl.
Final Thoughts:
I know. I know. Another Duke. But I can’t help myself. I seem to be drawn to Duke’s and the common women who bring them to their knees. I look for stories that have women who defy the expectations of the times. Izzy was the writer behind the stories written under her father’s name. She’s been taking care of herself and, before his death, her father. Her desperation of spirit and funds causes her to stand firm against Ransom when he’s being his most intimidating.
Spice Level: 2/5
Kinks Explored: None.
Voices Heard: Ransom is basically blind. They talk about that struggle from injury, and his fear with how that would affect him as a lover.
Did I like it? Yea. I wanna get another of her books and see what else she has.