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This is my first Kerrigan Byrne, and I have to tell you… after coming off Elizabeth Hoyt’s Maiden Lane series, I was a little worried about reading a historical that might not be able to match the intensity. Boy, was I wrong! Byrne has her own dark intensity, and at one point, I literally said, “what!?! oh my gosh!” 

The Story- 
Imogen is stuck tending bar at a whorehouse because her dad ran up a ton of debt before he died. One night, a young Duke strolls in and pays for her virginity. The experience changes the both of them and will influence both of their paths as the years pass. 

My Thoughts-
OMG, I love Imogen. I think she is my spirit animal, if that can be said of a character. The way she picks herself up and focuses on creating and being light and life inspires me. I’m honestly not sure the Duke is worthy of her, but she wants him, so that’s good enough for me. Her story is so good, but will definitely surprise you. The tension between the two is palpable, and the pain that they both feel is so real that all the reactions make complete sense. You feel like these are two people that have truly been to hell and back and are coming to grips with it. Don’t get me wrong: this book will also make you laugh out loud and cheer Imogen’s wit. 

Bottom Line-
If you are a fan of historical romance that has a dark edge and intriguing, fully-developed characters, you will love this! I can’t wait to go back and read the rest of the series. 5 stars