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Book Review of The Scottish Duke (Duke Trilogy, Bk 1)

The Scottish Duke (Duke Trilogy, Bk 1)
The Scottish Duke (Duke Trilogy, Bk 1)
Author: Karen Ranney
Genre: Romance
Book Type: Mass Market Paperback
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After Lorna Gordon's father (a scientist) died, Lorna became a maid at Blackhall Castle. Although she was raised as a gentleman's daughter, Lorna realized that she had to do something to support herself. She also planned to continue with her father's work. Lorna is very attracted to her employer, Alex Russell (Duke of Kinross). Alex has had a difficult life, although he was surrounded by opulence and wealth. Alex was married before, but his wife had died in childbirth after rubbing Alex's nose in her multiple infidelities.

Although the servants are well-treated, Alex is indifferent to every one. One night, Lorna decides to attend a masked, costume ball at the Duke of Kinross's home (where she is employed). She dresses like Marie Antoinette. Alex and Lorna have a wild tryst but they separate when he insults her. Months later, they meet again. Alex realizes that she wants nothing to do with him, while he thought she was after his money. Slowly, he comes to realize that Lorna is a resourceful woman with an independent spirit, and starts to admire her.

All the characters seemed well-defined. There is also a mystery or two. Both of the main characters grow in this book; Alex has more work to do than Lorna. There is so much action in this book that a reader will probably finish it quickly. It flows quite well.