The Scoundrel Falls Hard

June 1, 2022

To escape a bloodthirsty mob, Kellan Fox seeks shelter in the workshop of the town blacksmith--who just happens to be a woman. At first, Gwen Culley has no intention of saving the man who pretended to be the son of the local duke, but his strong body and good looks have her reconsidering. To prevent his hanging, the pair must convince the town they're in love and are willing to marry. They make a pact: they'll marry for one year, and Kellan can assist with chores while Gwen works in the smithy. Naturally, the forge fires aren't the only thing burning hot, and the pair can't keep their eyes, or hands, off each other for long. The plot is enjoyably trope-filled (a dastardly rival blacksmith makes trouble; there's only one bed at the inn, etc.), and the romantic chemistry simmers. VERDICT Readers who love strong heroines and steamy historicals will find much to enjoy in Jordan's third installment in the "Duke Hunt" series (after The Rake Gets Ravished).--Kathryn Howe

Copyright 2022 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2022
A lady blacksmith and a scoundrel plan for a temporary marriage of convenience and find themselves wanting forever instead. Kellan Fox learned to be a swindler and a thief from his father. Most recently, Da posed as the Duke of Penning and Kellan as his eligible heir. When the real duke appears and their ruse is discovered, the villagers of Shropshire call for Kellan's hanging. He's saved by local blacksmith Gwen Cully. Gwen doesn't condone the scoundrel's actions, but she thinks death is an extreme punishment. On impulse, as the mob is about to hang him, she calls out that they can't kill him because she loves him, even though he's actually a stranger. To save face, the pair secretly agree to marry for one year. They'll be platonic, and he'll help at the smithy. The sham wedding is only three weeks away, but as time ticks closer, they both find themselves wanting to throw aside the platonic rule as they start falling in love for real. Gwen is a captivating heroine. She's independent and physically strong, yet there's a part of her that still craves being cared for and adored. Kellan is a great match for her and has his own journey of self-discovery as he moves outside of his father's expectations. And yet, despite chapters beginning with a countdown to the wedding, there's no sense of urgency or any real depth. The plotting feels phoned-in for much of the story, and even the emotions feel repetitive, making it hard for the reader to be invested. Appealing characters can't save a dull story.

COPYRIGHT(2022) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.