Fake Wife for Dr. Secret Daddy by Elsa Duke is a contemporary romance novel that delves into themes of unexpected love, secret identities, and the complexities of family dynamics. The book offers a blend of humor, passion, and drama, that keeps the reader engaged from beginning to end.

The novel introduces us to Dr. Jeremy Linton, a respected pediatric surgeon who has always kept his personal life and his career strictly separate. However, his life takes a sharp turn when he inherits custody of his niece following the tragic death of his sister. Faced with the challenge of balancing his demanding job and his new role as a parent, Jeremy finds himself in need of a nanny. Enter Samantha Rowe, a bright and resourceful woman who Jeremy persuades to pose as his wife to simplify the custody proceedings. What starts as a simple arrangement soon spirals into a complex mesh of fake relationships and real emotions.

Elsa Duke does an admirable job of crafting characters with depth and relatability. Dr. Jeremy Linton is not your everyday romantic hero; his flaws and fears make him particularly human. The weight of his responsibilities and the guilt over his sister’s death add layers to his character that are thoughtfully explored throughout the book. Samantha Rowe, on the other hand, is more than just a love interest. She is portrayed as a strong, independent woman, driven by her own ambitions and past heartaches. Her evolution from a mere accomplice in Jeremy’s ruse to a pivotal figure in his life is both believable and satisfying.

The development of the relationship between Jeremy and Samantha is one of the highlights of Fake Wife for Dr. Secret Daddy. Duke masterfully navigates the transition from convenience to genuine intimacy with skillful dialogue and intimate moments that are both sweet and steamy. The chemistry between the characters is palpable, and the romantic scenes are well-written, providing just the right mix of tension and tenderness.

Beyond the romance, the novel also addresses serious issues like grief, trust, and the meaning of family. The presence of Jeremy's niece adds a significant emotional depth and stakes to the story, making the protagonist's decisions and transformations even more impactful. The dynamic between Jeremy and his niece, and how Samantha fits into their world, is carefully detailed and adds a heartwarming element to the narrative.

However, while the main plot and character arcs are engaging, the book does stumble a bit with some of its secondary characters and subplots. A few of the supporting cast seem underdeveloped and their motivations can be unclear at times, which occasionally pulls focus from the main storyline. Additionally, while the central conflict resolves in a gratifying way, some readers might find the climactic revelations and the ease of resolutions a bit too convenient.

The writing style of Elsa Duke is accessible and flowing, making for an easy and enjoyable read. She effectively uses dialogue and internal monologues to provide insights into her characters' minds, which helps in building a connection between them and the reader. Moreover, the occasional injections of humor help to balance out the more serious themes, ensuring that the book doesn’t become too heavy.

In conclusion, Fake Wife for Dr. Secret Daddy by Elsa Duke is a compelling blend of romance and drama that tackles heavy themes with grace and humor. The main characters are well-crafted and their development through the story is both realistic and satisfying. While there are minor issues with some of the secondary elements, these do not seriously detract from the overall enjoyment of the novel. Fans of contemporary romance looking for a story that combines sweetness with depth will likely find much to appreciate in Duke’s work. This book is a testament to the transformative power of love and the unexpected paths that lead us to forming new families.