The Duke's Widow, Marriage & Duty by Dorothy Sheldon

  

Rating: ⭐⭐

This plot felt completely not thought out. The author's lack of attention to historical detail made the entire premise awkward, even vile.

Here's why: Marriages between a brother-in-law and a widow were illegal after 1835. While they might have been annulled by a bishop before that if family objected, this story never addressed the issue, nor did the author provide any dates. I can only assume it was before 1835 since the new Duke finished out the war with Napoleon. Regardless, the entire situation between the two brothers felt vile.

The worst part is Josiah's inner turmoil. He supposedly loved Martha, yet he blames her for marrying his brother when he was the one who didn't act on his feelings or challenge his brother for her hand before the wedding! He just runs off to war instead. The whole thing genuinely upset me and made it impossible to enjoy the story. Yes, his eventual redemption in her eyes is heartwarming, but it's simply not enough to salvage the entire experience.