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Book Review of Four Dukes and a Devil: The Irish Duke / The Duke Who Came to Dinner / Devil to Pay / Catch of the Century / Charmed by Her Smile

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Helpful Score: 2


A really good anthology of short stories. Out of the five authors, I have only read Elaine Fox and Jeaniene Frost.

"The Irish Duke" by Cathy Maxwell: Very short, quaint story. Susan works as guide for young girls trying to find a husband. Using a marketing ploy she inadvertently slated an Irish Duke looking for a wife. Well done simple story. I am interested to see what her full length books would be like.

The Duke Who Came to Dinner by Elaine Fox: A modern story loosely associated with a Duke from the past or Duke, the dog. If you have ever read Fox she is fond of writing about people having preconceived notions about the one they want to be with and the ones they dont. Of course they end up falling for the ones they are not supposed to be with. Gray is an uptight teacher trying to reinvent herself. Sam is a local and music critic (Gray thought he was a plumber and Sam thought Gray was insane). Throw a possible ghost and a dress-stealing dog, you have a cute little romance. The story was okay with a little bit of humor. Nothing special.

Devil to Pay by Jeaniene Frost: This is who I got the book for. If you are really into her Cat and Bones series, they do have a small cameo. This book happens before Mencheres and Kira get together but after Bones and Mencheres merged their lines. This one is about Elise of Mencheress line. Elise basically helps find her humanity while helping Blake end his life in hopes of ridding the world of the demon inside of him. Very touching.

Catch of the Century by Sophia Nash: Very funny story about working class Victoria and a Duke named John. Great verbal sparring and lots of fun situations. This one ended up my favorite story and I will definitely look for her books.

Charmed by Her Smile by Tracy Ann Warren: This was my least favorite story. It had potential at first but towards the middle it kind of fizzled and never regained momentum. India, in an effort to avoid a persistent suitor asks for the help of a notorious rake, Duke Quentin. Quentin thinks she is too young and innocent but is willing to pretend to be interested in her to avoid boredom. You know the rest. I didnt hate it but I wont be searching for Warrens other works.

Overall a very worthwhile anthology. Very easy read.