The Duke Identity: A Steamy Bodyguard Victorian Romance

I enjoyed the story, it had an interesting plot with dangers and twists that were unexpected. I liked the fact that the main characters were of a different class than those in most similar stories. That they were members of the "underworld" was a refreshing change. I did have to do a lot of skipping over the over the top sex scenes, would have liked this story better with less of that.

4.5 stars I have been waiting for this book for so long and I had very high expectations. I'm happy that The Duke Identity met those expectations and more. This book was so much fun to read. It had a little bit of everything: steamy romance, strong familial love, compelling mystery, rich setting, adventure, and amazing main and supporting characters. I really enjoyed reading Tessa and Harry’s love story. I’ve loved Harry Kent since the Heart of Enquiry series and I am so happy he got his own HEA. Tessa is his perfect mate and better half. She’s such a clever, loyal, feisty, saucy, and absolutely lovable heroine. I loved her from the very first chapter. I loved how Tessa slowly helped him open up. Harry ended up being such a swoon worthy hero in the end – like his brother Ambrose, he is protective, honourable, and a gentleman through and through. I loved how Tessa and Harry were so comfortable with each other. Tessa allowed herself to be vulnerable with Harry and vice versa. It was the most wonderful thing ever. The London Underworld setting is fascinating. It was particularly great seeing the Underworld through Tessa's eyes because she had such a unique and fresh perspective. As for the plot, the mystery was engaging and compelling. I was intrigued from the very beginning and I couldn't wait to find out who was behind everything. The supporting characters were amazing – I was surprised to discover how much I loved Bartholomew Black, and even Mavis. There was so much familial love and loyalty in this book. For those who have read the Heart of Enquiry books, familiar faces show up in this book. I loved revisiting the Kents – they are one of my favourite historical romance families. We only got a taste of the London Underworld in the Mayhem in Mayfair and Heart of Enquiry series. Now we’re well and truly immersed in that world. I love the idea of Dukes who rule the Underworld and I’m SO excited to find out where this series is headed!!

An exciting adventure featuring a scholarly policeman Harry and Tessa, granddaughter of the Black, the king of the underworld. Harry is on assignment to take down Black and has a chance encounter with Tessa. Hired to protect her, he hopes to get close to her grandfather but sparks begin to fly between the two! Harry had really closed himself off after a terrible incident when he was a scientist and was forced to put his work aside. Tessa fits right in with the underworld and is able to blend in with the scourge of society. But she is really a very independent, full of life woman who wants to be let out from how tightly her family has held her. The interaction between Harry and Tessa is so intriguing and they have a long road to begin to trust each other. I loved seeing the characters develop with each other and the trust and love between them grow. This one kept me turning the pages and I really was disappointed when it ended. I cannot wait to see more of this series!!