The Duke’s Desire is the heartwarming and absolutely laugh-at-loud funny story of Lucien le Duc and Meg Church. Other than fleeing France during the Revolution (Lucien isn’t aware that Meg had lived in France) and living in Cressmouth, these two have nothing in common. Lucien is grumpy, refuses to learn to speak English well enough to carry on a conversation (even if he wanted to). Meg is outgoing and friendly, loves naughty novels, and has no problem talking about the activities in them. She lives with her cousin and her husband who own the local dairy where she doesn’t have to help in the barn, because they already have eight maids a-milking. As I said, total opposites. It seems impossible these two will have a happily ever after; but remember, this is Cressmouth, the town of Christmas miracles. This is the eighth story in the 12 Dukes of Christmas series. It is a delightfully humorous and unpredictable tale with lovable quirky characters, snarky banter, some difficult secrets to reveal, and a few twists and turns. One of my favorite parts is when Meg agrees to tutor Lucien in English. Their tutoring sessions are fun for Meg, Uncle Jason, and the reader, but not so much for Lucien. It does give the couple the chance to get to know each other (Lucien likes that part). I thoroughly enjoyed the story of the eighth Duke of Christmas. Now on to number nine! I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

Erica Ridley can do no wrong. It’s Christmas and she delivers a delightful read. This is Lucien le Duc’s story. He’s the reluctant second best blacksmith. A true gentleman, he plots to gain back his French inheritance and avoid the English. Out of his two siblings, he’s the only one with no ties and different life he envisions. Meg Church is giving him English lessons. I loved Lucien and really getting into his head and heart. Highly recommended.

Lucien has only dreams of returning to his homeland. Meg is just looking for a permanent place to live and belong. Once these two start to spend time together, their ideas of what they thought their futures would look like has totally changed. Lots of sparks and humor with these two.