What Tabitha doesn't count on is falling in love with a completely unsuitable man. When she meets Preston, she thinks he is "Mr. Preston," an irresponsible rake. Finding out that he's the Duke of Preston doesn't change her opinion. Having a long conversation over a scandalously private dinner with him, however, does. Even so, she must make the best of her inheritance, or spend the rest of her life living in poverty and working as a maid.

The scenes between Tabitha and Preston are electric. Elizabeth Boyle writes terrific dialogue, both spoken and inner, that really spark. I wanted those two to get together, and for the most part, the obstacles keeping them apart rang true. Their future remains uncertain until the last few pages.

I found parts of the story very frustrating. Boyle skips Tabitha's first meeting with the relatives she's staying with in London. She never, that we see, asks anyone about this mysterious stranger she's supposed to marry -- and she doesn't meet him for at least two weeks after she arrives in Town, even though they're expected to marry by her fast-approaching 25th birthday. She never asks to see the will or hear it read. Even if she doesn't get anywhere, I want her to ask the questions.

The dynamic relationship between Tabitha and Preston make up for those shortcomings. Like the happy couple themselves, every time they are apart, I can't wait for them to run into each other again. They have the chemistry to make ALONG CAME A DUKE an engaging and satisfying Cinderella story.

Book Summary