THE DUKE CAN GO TO THE DEVIL is Book three in Erin Knightley's Prelude to a Kiss series. I think this is a book that can be enjoyed by readers who may be new to the series. THE DUKE CAN GO TO THE DEVIL is a great romance for readers who like the hero and heroine to have a fiery and contentious relationship at times. Mei-li "May" Bradford and William Spencer, the very proper Duke of Radcliffe have many differences and their path to happiness doesn't run smoothly.

May is quite an interesting and strong character. She is very self-assured and has very definite plans for her life that don't include marriage. I like how Erin Knightley doesn't make May's unconventional attitude toward life clownish or obnoxious. She is attracted to William and develops some tender feelings for him, but she knows her own mind and is not easily swayed by others. I like how assertive and aggressive she can be while still being utterly feminine.

William is a Mr. Darcy kind of hero. At first Radcliffe comes off as being very uptight, proper and his inner feelings can be a complete mystery to others. It takes him completely by surprise how much he ends up appreciating May's strength and strong opinions. Knowing her makes an impression on him. His interactions with his younger half-siblings are adorable and make him a more likable and sympathetic character. They reveal another layer of his personality. When he finally decides to fight for May, he does it fiercely and with heart- stopping results. THE DUKE CAN GO TO THE DEVIL is peppered with delicate and beautiful bits of romantic enchantment.

THE DUKE CAN GO TO THE DEVIL is a slow, satisfying simmer with a duke knocked for a loop by love. I love the friendship and support given by Sophie to May, and Lord Derington to William. Lord Derington seems particularly sweet and would love to read more about him in a future book. I look forward to the next Prelude to a Kiss book by Erin Knightley.

Book Summary

After her mother’s death, May’s sea captain father sends her halfway around the world to live with his stodgy sister in England. The summer festival in Bath made for a lovely distraction, but now she can’t wait for her father’s return so she can leave this country, its suffocating rules, and one infuriatingly proper nobleman in particular behind.

Because he is the Duke of Radcliffe, William Spencer’s whole life revolves around his duties. He never steps foot outside the bounds of proper behavior, and he expects the same of those around him. With her devil-may- care ways, May vexes him nearly as much as she tempts him, but there’s something about her that he just can’t resist. He knows he’s falling hard for her, but with lives that are worlds apart, will they ever be able to find any common ground?