The Duke Is But a Dream by Anna Bennett
Tracy’s rating: 3.5/4 of 5 stars

Series: Debutante Diaries #2

Release Date: July 30, 2019

Lily Hartley’s life is turned upside down by what she thought was an opportunity for adventure. Lily along with her sister, Fiona and their friend, Sophie are responsible for the popular column “The Debutante’s Revenge” in the London Hearsay paper – Lily has just settled into her sister’s house for a visit when Fiona’s new husband wants to whisk her away for a romantic trip, Lily insists that Fiona go and then remembers that her parents are also away – she decides to use the time and freedom to do things she would normally never have a chance to do – so dressed as a boy, she delivers her column and sets out to have an adventure. But instead of adventure, she ends up in a tavern brawl and is knocked out cold!!

Eric Nash, the Duke of Stonebridge is at the tavern after a fight with his sister Delilah trying to calm down when he sees the young lad being accosted by thugs, he didn’t come to the tavern for a fight, but maybe it is just what he needs – it isn’t until he realizes the “lad” accidentally gets knocked out that he realizes “he” is a “she” – he takes her back to his home and calls for a doctor – but when she wakes, she has no memory of who she is or why she was dressed as a boy and in the tavern.

Lily becomes Caroline and begins to help Nash and Delilah find some common ground, she also learns of Nash’s greatest pain, the reason he is so protective of Delilah and why he never plans on falling in love. But as they grow closer, Lily wonders if Nash’s heart is available and gives hers without pause, but when Lily’s advice in the column tears the family apart and Nash once again erects walls around his heart, is all lost or will love find a way?

I thought this was a cute story, however, it was a little predictable, formulaic and I thought Lily’s behavior bordered on TSTL on more than one occasion – especially for someone who was so concerned about her “reputation”. But overall it was an entertaining read with great characters, warm love scenes and a HEA. It is the second book in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand alone title.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an uncorrected e-ARC that was provided to me by NetGalley, Edelweiss and the publisher.*