Anna Campbell's The Last Duke She'd Marry is a delightful foray into the world of Regency romance, where societal expectations clash with personal desires, and love often finds a way to triumph over propriety. This novel, with its engaging characters and a plot that deftly balances humor and passion, is a testament to Campbell's skill in crafting stories that resonate with readers who crave both romance and depth.

At the heart of the novel is Lady Juliet Frain, a character who embodies the quintessential qualities of a Regency heroine. She is pure and proper, with a clear vision of her future as a duchess. Her life seems perfectly aligned with societal expectations, and her engagement to the dignified Duke of Granville appears imminent. However, Campbell cleverly subverts these expectations by introducing the scandalous Duke of Evesham, Lucas Hebden, into Juliet's life. This unexpected twist sets the stage for a captivating exploration of themes such as identity, societal pressure, and the transformative power of love.

Lucas Hebden, the Duke of Evesham, is a character who immediately captures the reader's attention. His reputation as a rake and a libertine is well-earned, yet Campbell imbues him with a depth that makes him more than just a stereotypical bad boy. His return to London after a decade of indulgence on the Continent is marked by a sense of restlessness and a desire for something more meaningful. This complexity makes Lucas a compelling character, and his interactions with Juliet are charged with both tension and undeniable chemistry.

The dynamic between Juliet and Lucas is one of the novel's greatest strengths. Their initial encounters are marked by a delightful blend of wit and attraction, as Juliet struggles to reconcile her attraction to Lucas with her desire to maintain her reputation. Campbell expertly navigates the push and pull between these two characters, creating a romance that feels both inevitable and hard-won. The evolution of their relationship is a testament to Campbell's ability to craft characters who are both relatable and aspirational.

One of the novel's most intriguing aspects is its exploration of the theme of identity. Juliet's journey is one of self-discovery, as she grapples with the expectations placed upon her by society and her own desires. Her interactions with Lucas force her to question what she truly wants, and whether the life she has envisioned for herself is one she genuinely desires. This internal conflict adds depth to Juliet's character and makes her journey all the more compelling.

Similarly, Lucas's character arc is one of redemption and growth. His initial portrayal as a rake is gradually peeled back to reveal a man who is capable of deep emotion and genuine love. His pursuit of Juliet is not just a conquest, but a journey towards becoming a better version of himself. This transformation is handled with nuance and care, making Lucas a character who is both flawed and endearing.

The novel also benefits from its rich supporting cast, particularly the dignified Duke of Granville. While he initially appears to be the perfect match for Juliet, his presence serves as a foil to Lucas's more passionate nature. The contrast between the two dukes highlights the novel's central theme of choosing between duty and desire, and adds an additional layer of tension to the story.

In terms of style, Campbell's writing is both elegant and engaging. Her prose captures the essence of the Regency era, while also infusing the story with a modern sensibility that makes it accessible to contemporary readers. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and the romantic scenes are imbued with a sense of longing and intensity that is sure to captivate fans of the genre.

Comparatively, The Last Duke She'd Marry shares thematic similarities with other works in the Regency romance genre, such as Julia Quinn's Bridgerton series and Lisa Kleypas's Wallflowers series. Like these authors, Campbell excels at creating characters who defy societal norms and pursue their own paths to happiness. However, Campbell's unique voice and her ability to balance humor and emotion set her work apart, making this novel a standout addition to the genre.

Overall, The Last Duke She'd Marry is a charming and heartfelt romance that will appeal to fans of Regency fiction and newcomers alike. With its well-drawn characters, engaging plot, and exploration of timeless themes, it is a novel that invites readers to lose themselves in a world where love conquers all. Anna Campbell has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, ensuring that readers will be left eagerly anticipating her next offering.