The Last Duke is the tenth, and last, book in the 1797 series by Jess Michaels. I have read some, but not all, of the books in this series. While those that have read them all will get more out of each book because of the character building and past situations, they can all stand up well on their own.
When Christopher “Kit” Collins’ father dies, he is devastated, but he must swiftly take on the title of Duke of Kingsacre and all the responsibility that comes with it. Including the care of his very young illegitimate half-sister, who is now his ward. He is very upset when he discovers the governess his father hired for the child just before his death is Sarah Carlton. Sarah is equally disturbed by the arrival of her new employer, as she and Kit once had an unpleasant encounter when she was at her lowest point. But since she has no other place to go, she can only hope he will not sack her. Thanks to the adoration of his sister, he does not and the two enter into a wary truce because they both care for the child. A truce that explodes one passionate night after a nearly tragic accident. Comfort leads to more and soon the two are engaged in an affair. But when danger comes to threaten the child they both love, they must overcome their deeply rooted mistrust and work together to keep her safe. And perhaps find a way to make a family together.
The Last Duke is a story about second chances, and paying attention to your own heart and mind, not just your responsibilities. Kit has spent his whole life preparing for the day he became Duke, although he would much rather have his father beside him. Over the years he has had friends, but has spent most of his energy on being who he should be. Sarah has spent most of her adult life trying to guarantee her survival while still fitting the expectations of those around her. When they are thrown more closely together they discover what both had hidden from for years, but expectations and assumptions are the biggest obstacles. I liked the characters, and found them well constructed. I think their growth and interactions were also very well done. My only real issues is that I would have liked Sarah to show the backbone in standing up to Kit that she shows elsewhere in the book. I really wanted her to stand up for what she wanted more, rather than being the perfect 'good girl' and trying to fit into the niche that society would have her stay in.
The Last Duke is a solid conclusion to this series, and a fun read.
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