Gabriel: Duke of Bencalor by Nancy Herkness is a riveting addition to the landscape of historical romance, blending the intricate details of nobility with the turbulent emotions of forbidden love. This novel, which is a part of Herkness' acclaimed series featuring royalty and their romantic escapades, stands out with its unique setting and compelling characters, particularly the enigmatic Duke himself, Gabriel.

The novel is set in the fictitious realm of Bencalor, a lush, verdant country that feels both timeless and steeped in the lore of European aristocracy. Gabriel, the Duke of Bencalor, is presented as a character shrouded in mystery and burdened with the responsibilities that come with his title. He is not just a figurehead but a ruler deeply invested in the welfare of his people, struggling to navigate the treacherous waters of court politics and international diplomacy.

The female protagonist, Lady Elise, is a refreshing departure from the typical damsel in distress archetype common in many romantic novels. She is intelligent, resourceful, and more importantly, holds a secret that could alter the course of her life and that of the Duke. Her introduction into the serene yet secretive world of Bencalor begins when she is chosen as a potential bride for Gabriel, amid the kingdom’s troubling times.

What makes Gabriel: Duke of Bencalor particularly engaging is the multi-layered narrative that Nancy Herkness expertly weaves. This is not simply a love story but a saga that explores themes of duty, betrayal, and the quest for personal happiness. The chemistry between Gabriel and Elise is palpable, their interactions a fiery dance of attraction and resistance, grounded in their mutual concern for Bencalor.

Herkness does not shy away from the stark realities of the era she sets her story in. This includes the constraints placed on women and the often-violent skirmishes for power within the nobility, which provides a gritty realism that enriches the novel. Moreover, her attention to detail when describing the landscapes, costumes, and customs of Bencalor adds a rich texture to the narrative, making readers feel as though they are walking through the grand hallways and secretive corridors of the castle alongside the characters.

Through well-placed flashbacks and a diverse cast of secondary characters, each with their own secrets and motivations, the story’s world grows exponentially, pulling readers deeper into its intricacies. The political intrigue that ensues provides a robust backdrop against which the personal journeys of Gabriel and Elise unfold.

One of the novel’s standout elements is its pacing. Nancy Herkness manages to balance fast-paced, thrilling escapades with slower, poignant moments where characters reflect on their circumstances and grow. This pacing ensures that the readers are kept on their toes, eager to turn the page, but also allowed to breathe and reflect along with the characters.

However, amidst the numerous strengths of the novel, it sometimes falls prey to certain clichés of the romance genre. The inevitability of Gabriel and Elise’s union, despite the ostensibly insurmountable obstacles before them, may feel predictable to seasoned readers of romance. Additionally, the villain of the story, though menacing, sometimes comes across as one-dimensional in his motivations.

Despite these minor shortcomings, Gabriel: Duke of Bencalor is a captivating read. Nancy Herkness has crafted a world that feels at once familiar and daringly different. Her ability to portray compelling, flawed characters who must navigate both their internal moral dilemmas and external threats adds a level of depth to the novel that is often lacking in traditional romantic narratives.

In conclusion, Gabriel: Duke of Bencalor by Nancy Herkness is a must-read for fans of historical romance with a taste for intrigue and a desire to see traditional roles subverted. The novel offers both escapism and a nuanced look at the complexities of leadership and love. It is a testament to Herkness' skill as a storyteller and her deep understanding of the human heart.