Eliana Piers' Best Duke Ever is a delightful addition to the regency romance genre, offering readers a charming tale of love, friendship, and the pursuit of independence. The novel, part of the Everly Sisters duology, centers around the spirited Lady Lenora and her journey towards self-discovery and love, with the ever-patient Edward, Duke of Langston, by her side. Piers crafts a narrative that is both engaging and heartwarming, making it a must-read for fans of regency romance.

At the heart of Best Duke Ever is the theme of independence and the struggle for self-assertion in a society that often restricts women's choices. Lady Lenora is a character who embodies this struggle. Her desire to exercise her independence by choosing her own husband is a refreshing take on the typical regency heroine. Lenora's character is well-developed, showcasing her impulsive nature and her determination to break free from societal expectations. Her journey is relatable and inspiring, as she navigates the complexities of love and friendship.

Edward, Duke of Langston, serves as a perfect foil to Lenora's fiery spirit. His character is portrayed with depth and nuance, revealing a man who has been silently in love with his best friend for years. Edward's internal conflict and his struggle to balance his feelings with his desire to respect Lenora's independence add layers to his character. His role as Lenora's wingman and eventual kissing trainer is both endearing and humorous, providing a fresh twist to the friends-to-lovers trope.

The chemistry between Lenora and Edward is palpable, and Piers does an excellent job of building tension and anticipation throughout the novel. The transition from friendship to romance is handled with care, allowing readers to savor each moment of their evolving relationship. The scenes where Edward teaches Lenora about passion are particularly well-written, capturing the intensity of their emotions without overshadowing the story's central themes.

One of the standout aspects of Best Duke Ever is its exploration of the idea that sometimes, love needs a little push. The novel cleverly uses the concept of a "wingman" to highlight the importance of taking risks and stepping out of one's comfort zone. Edward's decision to assert himself and take a chance on love is a testament to the power of vulnerability and courage. This theme resonates throughout the story, encouraging readers to reflect on their own experiences with love and friendship.

In terms of pacing, Best Duke Ever is a lightning-fast read, as promised in the blurb. Piers' writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to become immersed in the story. The novel's brevity is both a strength and a weakness; while it allows for a quick and satisfying read, some readers may wish for more detailed exploration of certain plot points and character arcs. However, this does not detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

Comparatively, Best Duke Ever holds its own against other regency romances. Fans of Julia Quinn's Bridgerton series or Tessa Dare's works will find much to love in Piers' novel. Like Quinn and Dare, Piers has a knack for creating memorable characters and weaving together humor and romance in a way that feels both modern and true to the regency era. The novel's focus on female empowerment and the importance of personal choice sets it apart from more traditional regency romances, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.

Overall, Best Duke Ever is a delightful and engaging read that will appeal to fans of regency romance and those who enjoy stories of friendship blossoming into love. Eliana Piers has crafted a tale that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with themes of independence, courage, and the transformative power of love. Whether you're a longtime fan of the genre or new to regency romance, Best Duke Ever is a novel that should not be missed.