THE DUKE OF LIES (The Untouchables #9) by Darcy Burke-a review

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ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date May 29, 2018

Verity Beaumont has suffered domineering men most of her life, first with her father and then with her husband. Free from both men, she has finally found peace. Even meeting a kind and hard-working gentleman who just might be the perfect father her young son so desperately needs. But as she dares look to the future, her carefully ordered world is shattered when her dead husband returns.

Imprisoned in America during the war, Rufus Beaumont, Duke of Blackburn, wants nothing more than to return to his native England. He longs for comfort and safety away from the horrors of battle, only the life he returns to is not the life he left. He must convince his wife that their marriage is worth fighting for, that he’s not the man he was. But when the truth about what happened to him leaks out, he must prove that not everything about him, especially his love for her, is a lie.

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REVIEW: THE DUKE OF LIES is the ninth instalment in Darcy Burke’s THE UNTOUCHABLES historical romance series. This is Verity Beaumont, and Rufus Beaumont ‘s, Duke of Blackburn ( aka Captain Christopher ‘Kit’ Powell) story line. THE DUKE OF LIES can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary.

Told from dual third person perspectives (Verity and Rufus/Kit) THE DUKE OF LIES follows the building relationship between Verity Beaumont, and Rufus Beaumont, the Duke of Blackburn ( aka Captain Christopher ‘Kit’ Powell). Verity Beaumont’s husband has been missing for six and half years. There has been no word, no sightings, and no news about his demise. With the seven year mark quickly approaching, our heroine, along with their six year old son Beau, is hoping to move on with her life when the man in question resurfaces-a changed man similar in appearance but for all intents and purposes not the man she remembers as abusive and mean. What ensues is the ‘rekindling’ romance between Verity and Rufus, and the potential fall-out when the truth is revealed.

Rufus Beaumont has a reputation. Abusive, dark and brutish, Rufus’ disappearance meant a reprieve for everyone he left behind. The man who returned in his absence, is not the same man our heroine remembers, but a kind and gentle man who is willing to begin anew. Physical similarities aside, the man with whom Verity will fall in love is a stranger who is willing to accept everything and more including the love of Verity and her six year old son.

THE DUKE OF LIES is an energetic tale of second chances (of sorts). An uplifting and spirited story line about secrets, lies, romance and love. The premise is captivating and charming; the characters are determined, dynamic and tenacious; the romance is fated and passionate.

Copy supplied by Netgalley

Reviewed by Sandy