There's a lot to love here, and the romance is just one thing. When Viola faked her death to start living as a woman, she gained her freedom to be herself, but she lost her title, her land, and her position in society, not to mention her best friend. I liked the way she had to adjust to essentially being a stranger in her own family and home (while also being supported and loved by her family!), and also adjust to her status in society dropping by a lot. Because how could a lady's companion deserve a Duke?

Gracewood has his own problems. He was not only abused by his father, but generally raised to be cold and unfeeling, and put his duty first. This - and society's expectations - make it very hard for him to be a good brother, no matter how much he wants it. He also struggles with PTSD in a time when it is mostly just known as "cowardice".

Miranda is a delight.

I admit there were some scenes towards the end (like a certain drawn-out fight scene) that I found awkward and unnecessary, and if that was supposed to be the sequel bait, then I'm a bit wary about this alleged sequel.