The Darkest Summer by Rebecca J. Greenwood

Lady Cora Winfield's life has always gone according to plan--her mother's plan. That's why Cora is so fascinated when she meets the dark Duke of Blackdell. Knowing his dangerous reputation, Cora's mother flatly forbids the match, and the duke decides to take matters into his own hands. Kidnapped and facing a scandal, Lady Cora must now decide whether love will be her downfall or the beginning of a new plan, one she never dreamed possible.

Set in the stormy summer of 1816, this Regency romance is a retelling of the myth of Hades and Persephone.

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This is a regency romance unlike any I have read before.  Of course there were plenty of similarities too, but this story took an unbeaten path when the brooding, dark Duke becomes a bit desperate and takes matters of love into his own hands.

The story actually starts out a bit on the slow side with the Duke doing a lot of lurking- which sounds sort of creepy but I just dare you not to fall in love with the Duke of Blackdell.  Once the story picks up, it's a surprising and fun ride to the end.  I loved it!

Cora is a unique young lady with a curious mind and a passion for horticulture.  Her mother is quite severe with her and when Cora has a chance to choose her own path, she takes it.  I love how Cora thinks things through.  She isn't too quick to judge, forgives quickly and has such a pleasant nature about her.  I loved how both she and the duke were kind and respectful to those around them no matter their station.

The Duke!  He is passionate but so controlled.  Well, most of the time.  As the story progresses and you get to know the Duke better, his longings and desperation make more sense.  No matter what is happening, he is respectful of Cora and all the people around them.  A true gentleman.

I loved the growing romance, the unveiling of personalities along with the situation and the genuine fondness I developed for these characters.  The secondary characters were fantastic as well and really helped round out the story.  So good!!

There is a novella that goes along with this story ( The Darkest Hour) and I'm reading that next month.  I'm really looking forward to that!  

Content:  kissing, mild peril

- I received a copy of this book from the publisher.  All opinions expressed are my own.

Rebecca J. Greenwood is an author, artist, and designer with a love of stories, especially Regency romances. She grew up in Texas as the oldest of six, and studied visual art with a music minor at Brigham Young University. Rebecca lives in Utah with her husband, where she listens to audiobooks, cooks experimentally, has an interest in alternative health, and constantly has a new project in mind. Visit rebeccajgreenwood.com to experience more of her art, writing, and upcoming projects.