Drags a bit but still a satisfying finale to the series. ( )

The redemption story didn't pan out for me. ( )

Daring and the Duke
2 Stars

Unfortunately, the final installment in The Bareknuckle Bastards does not live up to its potential. Strangely enough, it is not even Ewan, whose behavior is so egregious in the first two books, who fails to resonate, but rather Grace who come across as truly selfish and unlikable.

While MacLean does manage to successfully redeem Ewan's character, the actual explanation for his actions 20 years earlier is so obvious as to be completely trite. Neverthless, his clear contrition, determined desire to make amends and willingness to work hard for forgiveness go a long way toward his redemption. Thus, he is ultimately a worthy hero.

The same, however, cannot be said of Grace. The mysterious, powerful and fiercely independent Dahlia is nothing more than a superficial facade for an immature, self-absorbed and capricious woman who constantly draws the hero in only to reject him time and time again. Her eventual realization that she can retain her position as Queen of Covent Garden and also have the man who loves her beyond reason only serves to highlight her condescension.

The powerful chemistry between Ewan and Grace hinted at in the previous books devolves into a serious of mechanical sex scenes lacking true intimacy and affection. Moreover, the repetitious phrasing and rehashing of plot points slows the pacing and makes it difficult to care about the characters eventual HEA. Finally, the attempt at social criticism with regard to the treatment of the poor, in general, and women, in particular, is perfunctory and utterly meaningless.

Overall, a disappointing end to an OK series. Book #2 is definitely the best of the three. ( )

Grace is an incredible character, as is Ewan, and I like how this book did such a great job of tying up all the BB’s stories. I am very excited for the new Hell’s Belles series!!! ( )

3.5 stars - Grace and Ewan’s story never really gripped me throughout the other books even though theirs is the foundation of the series. The plot itself was fine but it just felt a bit dull. ( )