The Duke's Christmas Bride

Anna Bradley

Sept 2024 · Drop Dead Dukes Book 3 · Zebra Books

About this eBook

Set against the Bridgerton-era backdrop of Regency London, Anna Bradley’s witty and sexy trilogy sets fiercely alpha dukes against the duchesses who are determined to transform their delinquent husbands by any means necessary. A delight for fans of Mary Jo Putney, Sabrina Jeffries, Ella Quinn, Diana Quincy and Julia Quinn.

Alarmed by the sound of an intruder, Rose St. Claire fetches her pistol. She’s shocked to discover that the trespasser is a handsome gentleman—one who states that the house, which Rose recently inherited from her late benefactor, was stolen from his father decades ago. He claims it is now his. And it is—but not entirely. As it turns out, Hammond Court has been left to them both—and neither can evict the other without forfeiting their right to the property . . .

Wealthy and ruthless, Maxwell Burke, Duke of Grantham, has spent years regaining the many properties his father lost to bad wagers. Only Hammond Court remains. But Rose has no intention of leaving. In fact, as Christmas draws near, circumstances force Max to plan a holiday party, and Rose is all too happy to help. Max despites such merriment—until he sees it as an opportunity...

Max will forgive the debt of another young duke’s family if the attractive gentleman woos Rose at the party, ultimately marries her—and returns her share of the estate to Max. It’s foolproof. Except that Rose’s spirited joy is seductive, recalling within Max long ago feelings of happiness—and awakening a deep attraction. Has Max cooked his own Christmas goose—or is there a chance love will prevail? . . .

Ratings and reviews

This is a charming story with wonderful characters. There is lots of fun (sometimes you have to laugh), a house falling down, misunderstandings past and present, and a slow-burn romance. Rose and Max are great together, stubborn, determined to win the battle of the house. Enjoyable story! I received an Arc of this book via NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.

Anna Bradley is one of my favorite Regency authors, and this book is a good example of why. Funny and fast-paced, this novel has a strong plot and lovable characters. Rose is strong and defiant. Max is a grump with a heart of gold. I love how he takes care of Rose when she needs him to, but otherwise allows her to be independent. Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.

I really enjoyed this sweet, fun, Christmas themed historical romance. Max was so guided by his hat for Ambrose that he was missing out on life. If was great how even in death, Ambrose was still looking out for Rose and Max.

About the author

Anna Bradley is the author of The Sutherland Scandals and The Sutherland Sisters novels, as well as the Besotted Scots series. A Maine native, she now lives near Portland, OR, where people are delightful and weird and love to read. She teaches writing and lives with her husband, two children, a variety of spoiled pets, and shelves full of books. Visit her website at www.annabradley.net.