He’s surly, intimidating, and hardly ever smiled-except in the presence of Juno, of course. In contrast, the Rigid Duke or Dare, as he’s known to the people he likes, was the epitome of a grumpy H. She was an extremely loyal ray of sunshine and it was easy to root for her. I really liked Juno’s character and her openness about searching out and having multiple lovers as a widow, and her boldness in (eventually) making the first move! It’s not often we see heroines in HR be so sexually open, and not in a negative way either, and I found it refreshing. I appreciated that this was a low drama and low angst romance and although there was still the “third act conflict” that sees them go their separate ways, they also very quickly come to their senses so it’s resolved almost immediately. Thankfully, there was none of that mess here because it was clear from the beginning that the Duke was basically besotted by Juno and Marina had zero interest in him. I have to admit that I was initially a little worried that this would end up being a bit of a “love triangle” situation as Juno, as Lady Marina’s refinement tutor, is playing matchmaker to her and the Duke at the house party because they both don’t like parties or people so everyone thought they’d make a perfect match. It was an enjoyable grumpy/sunshine romance that’s slightly more sex than plot but was a quick and entertaining read that delivers a sweet HEA! TL DR: I’ve come to really enjoy Darcy Burke’s books ever since discovering her historical romances last year and The Rigid Duke was no different. He must marry the young lady, not desire the companion.īut now he’s rethinking his wife choices.

He’ll do anything to avoid her sunny charm and room-brightening smiles, but she’s breaking through his shell and the only way he can think to keep her quiet is to kiss her. Langton, who is determined to find his better nature. He plans to secure his future duchess at a house party, but she’s being managed by a thoroughly meddlesome-and provocative-Mrs. The Duke of Warrington dislikes social gatherings and despises the Marriage Mart which makes it nigh impossible to find a wife. Too bad the duke is an unsmiling, rigid grouch, albeit an irritatingly handsome one. When a house party provides an opportunity to match her difficult charge with a duke, Juno will go to any lengths to satisfy her employer and ensure the young lady’s future. Her cheerful disposition never wavers no matter how challenging her assignment.

Juno Langton helps young ladies develop the skills and confidence to secure an advantageous marriage.

Goodreads: The Rigid Duke (Matchmaking Chronicles #1)Īs a refinement tutor, Mrs.

The rigid duke darcy burke