Dancing With the Duke

She's loved him for years...
Charlotte Grant can't remember a time when she didn't love her best friend's older brother.


He's never noticed her...
The Duke of Clarington hadn't spared a thought for his sister's friend in years.

Their situations are about to be reversed...
It is the beginning of a new Season and Clarington intends to stay away from all the young ladies and eager mamas hoping to ensnare a duke. But that plan falls into tatters when his mother sponsors his sister's friend and enlists him to dance with her at Almack's. The beautiful vixen he meets that night bears little resemblance to the shy, gangly girl who used to follow him around. Now, instead of avoiding Charlotte, he finds himself frustrated when she seems to notice everyone but him.

*May Contain Spoilers*

As a prequel novella to a series, Dancing With the Duke by Suzanna Medeiros sets the stage for future installments. Charlotte and Alex were childhood acquaintances and now that they're all grown up, Charlotte is determined to catch Alex as her husband. 

Charlotte and Alex are likeable enough for readers to complete the novella, but because of the short nature of the book, it's quite difficult to make any true connections. Charlotte, in her childhood, was a blushing, shy, gangly girl. Now she's grown into a beautiful young woman who has learned confidence and self-esteem. These traits are perfect for a foundation of character connection, but not enough to fully form a bond with readers. 

Readers don't learn much about Alex, except that he isn't ready to marry until he sets his eyes on Charlotte for the first time in seven years. He has high morals and loves his family. Again, two good traits to build a connection on. I truly think that this prequel deserves novel-length and more character evolution. Medeiros has set up a wonderful romance but doesn't deliver the satisfying story evolution that she could have. 

Rating: 2/5 Cups