A review by vgdesigns
One Season with the Duke by Addy Du Lac

hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

 I know Who You Are 

Addy Du Lac’s debut historical romance is a delightfully diverse steamy romance about identity, and the strength of family. Heiress Henrietta Monfort’s (Hettie) meddlesome cousin is determined to ruin her with rumors of her parent’s unwed status. The threat to her livelihood and family leaves her with no option but to marry her blackmailer. Until her childhood friend Lord Flindley (Finn), Duke of Montrose and the Laird Mac Gairbheith, attends her engagement ball. All grown up, they find their friendship has turned into fiery passion. If only duty and a scandalous secret did not threaten to keep them apart. 

Hettie has all the characteristics of a great romance character. She genuinely cares about her adoptive family. Her Aunt Anastacie and Uncle Gabriel are supportive parents, and their affectionate banter is a lot of fun to read. Despite their clear love for her, Hettie is still terrified that they will disown her if they find out the truth. It is this compassion that is threatened by the manipulative lies of her cousin Phillip Fletchley. Phillip is intensely unpleasant, as he tries to blackmail Hettie into marrying him so he can have her fortune. Hettie’s feelings become even more complicated when her confidant and friend Finn returns, more handsome than she remembers. 

Finn adores Hettie, remembering their childhood friendship fondly. He wonders why she has not been swept off her feet yet, since she is kind and intelligent. Burdened by his inheritance at such a young age, he has neglected society, and contact with Hettie. He finds himself too late, as she is now engaged to someone else. Finn knows something is wrong, because she is troubled, and not the fearless women he remembers. He is willing to do whatever it takes to make Hettie laugh again. 

As a friends to lovers’ romance, Hettie and Finn have a lot of mutual fondness for each other. As friends Hettie and Finn like to tease each other, as well as “unspoken acceptance and protection.” They were not expecting the sudden attraction after being separated for so long. Though they discuss their desires, needs, and duties before marriage when the real passion begins. They may not know how everything is going to work out between them, but they are willing to learn together. Building a new family and legacy.