The Lost Duke of Wyndham by Julia Quinn (2008, Paperback)

Okay, I have to start off with the statement that I am a huge fan of Julia Quinn. The way she is able to inject humor into the story is very attractive to me, as is her absolutely crackling good dialogue! The dialogue in The Lost Duke of Wyndham is character-driven, moves the story along, and just sizzles with wit. The characters were appealing, and the plot was interesting.

Overall, I have to say I probably liked her Bridgerton series more, but this book was a pleasure to read. Regency fans will want to grab this one.

I absolutely loved this book by Julia Quinn. I was actually laughing out loud during certain parts. My husband though I was crazy!! This book has you guessing and wondering what will happen next until the very end. The heroine in this story is extremely likable, she is a sincere, brave and genuine character and that is what I loved about her. The hero on the other hand I didn't like in the beginning he was too much everything too charming, too sly, and too verbose. As the story unfolds though you start to understand him more and why he has come to be the way he is, at least I did! All in all it was very enjoyable and I COULN'T PUT IT DOWN!!!

This was the first book I've read by Julia Quinn and I loved it. If you are a fan of historical romance novels, I would suggest this title. It isn't one of those romance novels filled with "in-your-face" love scenes either which I prefer, rather it lets the story set an even pace of progression of the romance.

Synopsis:
Jack Audley, highwayman, soilder, rouge, has never wanted a life of ancient heritages and responsibilities. Then his is recognized as a lost son of the House of Wyndham, and his rougish life comes to a halt. If his birth proves legitimate he will be the Duke of Wyndham.
Grace Eversleigh has spend five years as the companion to the dowager Duchess of Wyndham. There is rarly a break in her routine until Jack Audley that is. Full of rakish smiles and charm, he isn't the kind of man who takes no for an answer and Grace can't seem to want to say no. If he is the true Duke of Wyndham though, he is one man she can not have...

I love anything by Julia Quinn. I have read all of her books and this one was very good. Of course nothing compares to her Bridgerton Series, but I have yet to be disappointed by any of her books. It held my interest and had enough humor, which is her trademark, to make me smile. I would recommend it and rate it excellent. I got an excellent bargain as usual on ebay and got it fast.

love the author and it was a new book by her, knew book would be good her other books were excellent

I love Julia Quinn and I thought it was a great book. Those historicals always make me happy when I read them.

Those who are familiar with Julia Quinn's novel are also familiar with her fabulous use of wit, humor and sarcasm. Coupled with these quirks are meaningful and emotional plots that only add to the depth of the characters within her novels. To name one in particular (which is my biased favorite) is "When He Was Wicked". All in all, the Bridgerton series is what truly sets Julia Quinn apart from the rest of Romance writers (those that write historical/regency romance). In many ways she provides depth to her novels in ways that are rarely seen in such a genre. However, though her Bridgerton series in truly unparralled in its complexity and genius, "The Lost Duke of Wyndham" seems to miss the mark.

Perhaps, I can concede, I am looking for too much similarity in her novels. And yet, this novel is definitely similar. Set in similar time periods, locations, and even tone, "Lost Duke" (as I like to call it) somehow... lost its.... shall we say it's overall feeling.

Having looked forward to this novel with bated breath (for what seemed like eons), I finally seemed to regain a steady breathing rhythm upon reading. It is that very reaction, my REGAINING a steady breathing rhythm that was disappointing to me. I had come almost accustomed to Quinn's ability to take my breath away. Literally. This novel, I am sad to say, did not accomplish such a response. While reading it, it seemed as if the plot and characters were rushed. Yes, I am aware that there is another novel that takes place simultaneously, and perhaps that is the very reason for one feeling unsatisfied. Many bits seemed to be missing throughout the novel, with scenes quickly moving as one neared the end. The beginning of the story evokes a lot of interest and emotion, however it seems to wane progressively and drastically toward the end, till the reader almost doesn't care WHAT happens to the characters. In fact, the characters actions in many ways seemed strange and well, out of character. For example, when Thomas (the man raised as the duke) kisses the main female character it just seems unrealistic. In fact, I felt like it hurt the story in many ways. As if it was an attempt to prolong and add to the dilemma at hand. Yet, even that action lacked substance. I didn't believe it for a minute.

In addition, (Spoiler) - The main male character's inability to read seemed well, false in many ways. In another way it seemed like a book I had already read. And truly, the whole novel seemed to be a replica of some other novel.

All in all, it is a good read. But it is not a great read. I do not have many hopes for the following book (it's twin). But, I believe Thomas's story is much more interesting. So, perhaps I will be pleasantly surprised. In the meantime, I will not hold my breath!