A review by bookishmillennial
Never Met a Duke Like You by Amalie Howard

funny fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
disclaimer: I don’t really give starred reviews. I enjoy most books for what they are, & I extract lessons from them all. Everyone’s reading experiences are subjective, so I hope my reviews provide enough information to let you know if a book is for you or not. Find me on Instagram: @bookish.millennial or tiktok: @bookishmillennial

Hours later, Aspen was still seething from a potent cocktail of anger, lust, and powerlessness.” 
^^ hahaha this man is *suffering* because of how bad he has it for our unattainable FMC!!!! 

Another absolute romp of a new adult historical romance from Amalie Howard! The Hellfire Kitties are probably one of my favorite series of hers. I loved the tension between Vesper & Aspen — it was delectable. Aspen’s passion for fossils and archaeology was so neat, & Vesper’s aspirations to help local children only added to her being one of my favorite characters of Howard’s. 

Howard’s author’s note at the very end discusses research she conducted for this novel, which includes the very abhorrent practices that were able to carry on, due to the Lunacy Acts, especially with regards to how women or any neurodivergent or person experiencing mental health struggles were mistreated. I also enjoyed learning about the Ragged School Union, which was founded in England in 1844 to provide free education to underprivileged, impoverished children. 

-second chance romance
-headstrong, self-assured, independent FMC who has zero interest in marriage/partnership for herself
-ADHD/neurodivergent representation
-matchmaking (it’s why people call this an Emma/Clueless retelling, but I think it really stands on its own & could do without the constant pointing to those two!) 
-a lil occupational, existential crisis (millennials can relate) 
-so much angry banter & sexual tension
-nicknames: Aspen calls Vesper “Viper” lmao😅🤭
-sex in public places

steam rating: 3/5

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