Review - No Good Duke Goes Unpunished (The Rules of Scoundrels #3) by Sarah MacLean

Title: No Good Duke Goes Unpunished

Author: Sarah MacLean

Series: 3rd (A Rogue By Any Other Name, One Good Earl Deserves Another)

Pages: 384

Published:  November 26th 2013 by Avon 

ISBN: 9780062068545

Source: Publisher via Edelweiss

 

 

 

 

 

Description: A rogue ruined . . . He is the Killer Duke, accused of murdering Mara Lowe on the eve of her wedding. With no memory of that fateful night, Temple has reigned over the darkest of London’s corners for twelve years, wealthy and powerful, but beyond redemption. Until one night, Mara resurfaces, offering the one thing he’s dreamed of . . . absolution. A lady returned . . .Mara planned never to return to the world from which she’d run, but when her brother falls deep into debt at Temple’s exclusive casino, she has no choice but to offer Temple a trade that ends in her returning to society and proving to the world what only she knows . . . that he is no killer.  A scandal revealed . . . It’s a fine trade, until Temple realizes that the lady—and her past—are more than they seem. It will take every bit of his strength to resist the pull of this mysterious, maddening woman who seems willing to risk everything for honor . . . and to keep from putting himself on the line for love. 

 

I Give This ...

 

I'm really enjoying this series revolving around the men who own an exclusive casino.  Temple was kind of elusive figure in the previous books.  I was eager to get to know him in this book.

 

Temple gives off the impression that he doesn't mind being thought of as off limits, frightening, etc.  I had no idea how much it bothered him.  But then again, I also did not know his story.    It was not what I was expecting at all.  It was interesting to read about the conflicting sides of his personality.  He could be cold and ruthless and then turn around and be enduring and charming.  In the end, I really just wanted him to be happy and get what he deserved.  I didn't necessarily think it was gaining full acceptance of the ton.

 

I had an idea of what Mara's story really was.  The final details were a little different, but I understood what she was trying to do.  I also identified with why she decided to risk it all by coming out in public after so long.  Sometimes, one will do anything for the only real connection you have with your old life.  She never counted on the connection she would make with the man whose life she ruined.

 

I was a little afraid this might be the first time the couple couldn't overcome their own pride and realize they really belong together.  Temple, especially seem to be holding on to the past (not that blame him).  When the full story comes out about the details of that fateful night, it's almost laughable.  A young naive girl facing an uncertain feature, she just took it a little too far.

 

I really liked this installment, both characters are likeable and I liked how it more about them.  The romance was still there, but it seemed more a secondary thing.  I can't wait until the next one!