The Forbidden Duke

Jen Geigle Johnson creates a compelling, rich, captivating, romantic story in just a short, quick read novella. It’s an enemies to lovers, Romeo & Juliet type story where the children of two notoriously feuding families meet and form an instant attraction.

In a case of mistaken identity, Catherine Aster is swept into a dance by the Duke of Salsbury before being introduced. Neither one realizes they are dancing with the enemy. That one waltz sets up a cascade of events where old family secrets are finally revealed and a generational feud might end in love.

This is a classic Christmas novella - lots of holiday cheer and some insta-romance!

There’s a lovely Romeo and Juliet vibe throughout - instant attraction, but forbidden to love or even associate by family members bitter about the past. Since it’s novella length, the conflict is concentrated primary on this, and the romantic leads must find a way to resolve family issues to be together. Thankfully, as it is a Jen Geigle Johnston story, it does have a HEA, even with the Shakespearean vibes underpinning much of the story.

It’s very much written in Johnson’s typical style - sweet, clean romance with pleasantly fluffy descriptions and characters (even the antagonists aren’t too terrible!).

Definitely a fun, quick Christmas read!

I really enjoyed this story. I was intrigued with the Aster and Salisbury family histories. Although this was a novella, the story never felt rushed and the characters were enjoyable. Stephen and Catherine were wonderful characters but Penelope stole the show. She was delightful.