Hint, Duke is a horse. I thoroughly (pun intended) enjoyed this equine entry into the 12 Dukes. Olive is an expert horsewoman. Who just had the rug pulled out from under her. Her father is selling all his shares in their farm (which she works on and manages and made into what it is) to her mortal enemy, Eli. Eli is the more feminine, bookish, peacekeeper. I really appreciated this role reversal. She’s tough and strong and trains horses, he’s the soft, city boy. Who broke her heart when she was fourteen. Now, he’s got ten days to win her and her horse, Duke. Better get to work, Eli. Tick tock. Recommend.

Mr. Harper and Mr. Weston had been partners in raising and training horses; then something happened (we don’t know what), the business was split, and they have been feuding for decades. Now it appears they plan to repair the rift with a marriage between Elijah Weston and Olive Harper. Why, all of a sudden, do their fathers think this is a good idea. Elijah kissed Olive when they were younger, then he taunted and humiliated her. She will not let it happen again. She doesn’t know Elijah wanted to kiss her, but taunted her because he feared his father. She has no intention of giving in to this marriage, but she will take a bit of revenge with her “test.” Elijah, who is more interested in horticulture that horses, has ten days to make friends with Duke, Olive’s famous stallion. Can he do it? Maybe, but it may not make any difference. Things are not what they seem. This is a heartwarming story. There is drama and humor in equal parts. Olive and Elijah are so good together, before and after they realize they like and eventually love each other. The story has some interesting twists, thanks to the feuding fathers. A visit to Cressmouth is always a joy. Elijah’s visit is no exception. Miracles always happen in this happy Christmas village. If Elijah and Olive can escape their manipulations, maybe the scheming fathers can call a truce. This lovely story is a wonderful addition to the series. By the way, Olivia is one of the eleven ladies dancing at Nottingvale’s Twelfth Night Ball. One more Duke to go. Wonder who it is? I received an ARC of this book from the author and publisher via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

We continue back in Cressmount with the 11th book. This story had me and would not let me go till I finished it! A story of two people who learn to let their past guide them instead of keep them back. They are thrown back together by their fathers. What comes out is a wonderful love story.