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I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie
From the delightfully debonair to the devilishly dangerous, these dashing dukes can't help but command your attention. And let's not forget the real stars here—the dazzling, damsel-not-in-distress heroines who don't need a title to rule. These are ladies of wit, grit, and not a little bit of mischief.
Every one of these novellas has a duke for its leading man. They're haughty, they're naughty, and they've got estates large enough to lose a spouse in. But beneath their stony aristocratic exteriors, beat hearts ready for passion... and the right touch of scandal.
Dive into the pages of I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie, where the tea is strong, the dukes are stronger, and the heroines are an irresistible force of nature. After all, you know what they say— the duke-ier, the merrier!
Featuring...
Annabelle Anders - Sweet Duke O' Mine
Amy Rose Bennett - An Improper Duke
Clair Brett - Her Reluctant Duke
S Cinders - Dukes Give Love a Bad Name
Alyssa Clarke - Two Dares, a Duke, and a Runaway Bride
Emmanuelle de Maupassant - The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes
Tamara Gill - Virtuous Duke
Caroline Lee - Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at that Duke
Carrie Lomax - The Duke She Defied
Beverley Oakley - The Duke and the Governess
Ebony Oaten - Duke Around and Find Out
Eve Pendle - The Duke Experiment
Sky Purington - Her Daring Duke
Amy Quinton - How to Train Your Duke
Stacy Reid - A Duke of Her Own
Lily Reynard - One Season with the Duke
Ellie St. Clair - The Duke's Treasure
Mariah Stone - When the Duke Bought a Wife
Laura Trentham - The Duke Deception
Every one of these novellas has a duke for its leading man. They're haughty, they're naughty, and they've got estates large enough to lose a spouse in. But beneath their stony aristocratic exteriors, beat hearts ready for passion... and the right touch of scandal.
Dive into the pages of I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie, where the tea is strong, the dukes are stronger, and the heroines are an irresistible force of nature. After all, you know what they say— the duke-ier, the merrier!
Featuring...
Annabelle Anders - Sweet Duke O' Mine
Amy Rose Bennett - An Improper Duke
Clair Brett - Her Reluctant Duke
S Cinders - Dukes Give Love a Bad Name
Alyssa Clarke - Two Dares, a Duke, and a Runaway Bride
Emmanuelle de Maupassant - The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes
Tamara Gill - Virtuous Duke
Caroline Lee - Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at that Duke
Carrie Lomax - The Duke She Defied
Beverley Oakley - The Duke and the Governess
Ebony Oaten - Duke Around and Find Out
Eve Pendle - The Duke Experiment
Sky Purington - Her Daring Duke
Amy Quinton - How to Train Your Duke
Stacy Reid - A Duke of Her Own
Lily Reynard - One Season with the Duke
Ellie St. Clair - The Duke's Treasure
Mariah Stone - When the Duke Bought a Wife
Laura Trentham - The Duke Deception
1742 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2023
About the author
Annabelle Anders
82 books1,266 followersMarried to the same man for over 25 years, I am a mother to three children and two Miniature Wiener dogs.
After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car.
At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.
And then the energy market dropped off.
And then my dog died.
I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.
Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!
To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!
www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...
After owning a business and experiencing considerable success, my husband and I got caught in the financial crisis and lost everything in 2008; our business, our home, even our car.
At this point, I put my B.A. in Poly Sci to use and took work as a waitress and bartender (Insert irony). Unwilling to give up on a professional life, I simultaneously went back to college and obtained a degree in Energy Management.
And then the energy market dropped off.
And then my dog died.
I can only be grateful for this series of unfortunate events, for, with nothing to lose and completely demoralized, I sat down and began to write the romance novels which had until then, existed only my imagination.
After publishing over twenty novels now, with one having been nominated for RWA’s Distinguished ™RITA Award in 2019, I am happy to tell you that I have finally found my place in life.
Thank you so much for being a part of my journey!
To find out more about my books, and also to download a free novella, get all the info at my website!
www.annabelleanders.com
JOIN MY NEWSLETTER: https://www.annabelleanders.com/newsl...
FOLLOW ME ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/Annabelle-Ande...
AND FACEBOOK: :https://www.facebook.com/Annabelle.An...
AND BOOKBUB: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/annab...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 155 reviews
Shelved as 'might-read'
November 9, 2022Caroline Lee's story in the anthology is titled "Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at that Duke" 🤣🤣🤣
The other titles are available on Amazon. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B...
Preorder for 99 cents!
The other titles are available on Amazon. https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B...
Preorder for 99 cents!
August 1, 2023
“I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie” is a delicious anthology of books written by amazing authors!
I was given in advance by the awesome author Miss. Emmanuelle De Maupassant a copy of her book in this anthology, The Lady’s Guide to Well Endowed Dukes.
Estela is a beautiful widow and on a trip to Venice with her two witty aunts and sisters, Miss’ Oona and Margaret.
The Duke of Rockley Theo is on the same ship they are traveling from. I loved how outgoing and daring Estela is!
When Theo and Estela met they had an instant attraction and as the storyline progressed it turned hot and steamy ❤️🔥.
This is a well written and well detailed book with intrigue in the beginning! And, omg like always I fell in Love with the Epilogue, it’s so beautiful 🥰
I really enjoyed and loved this book and cannot wait for the entire anthology to come out!
.
I was given in advance by the awesome author Miss. Emmanuelle De Maupassant a copy of her book in this anthology, The Lady’s Guide to Well Endowed Dukes.
Estela is a beautiful widow and on a trip to Venice with her two witty aunts and sisters, Miss’ Oona and Margaret.
The Duke of Rockley Theo is on the same ship they are traveling from. I loved how outgoing and daring Estela is!
When Theo and Estela met they had an instant attraction and as the storyline progressed it turned hot and steamy ❤️🔥.
This is a well written and well detailed book with intrigue in the beginning! And, omg like always I fell in Love with the Epilogue, it’s so beautiful 🥰
I really enjoyed and loved this book and cannot wait for the entire anthology to come out!
.
September 12, 2023
I enjoyed An Improper Duke by Amy Rose Bennett. An impetuous affair between an older woman and her stepson’s best friend? So much can go wrong, but when Hugo finds Celia’s naughty list and proposes to cross off each item, everything goes right. What follows is tawdry love affair, plenty of sneaking around, steam and tender affection. This story is short and sweet but oh so naughty. A delightful blend.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Duke Around and Find Out by Ebony Oaten: This story was great fun. Thomasina & Gerard are such fun, free spirits. Starting their acquaintance with a series of challenges (dares really) sets the tone for a seemingly carefree friendship. The stress comes when Gerard inadvertently becomes Duke and formality threatens their budding romance. Thomasina is bold and vivacious, and Gerard is the standard bold, outgoing rogue. Together their chemistry is hard to deny, a delightful story that I wish could’ve been longer. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at Her Duke by Caroline Lee: Laughing like a chick at hen party, this story was everything I hoped for. Knowing Caroline’s humour and Amelia’s penchant for eggs in blouse, I knew this story would be quirky humour at its finest. My only complaint is that I would’ve loved a full length story for Amelia & Kipling. I fell hard for her in The Duke’s Daring Bride and wanted to see all the antics that 2 years apart would bring. But I still loved what we were given, so I can’t complain (much). The other woman storyline brought an interesting complication and I absolutely loved the dinner time set down. Man, did she have that coming! After seeing Amelia’s pining for her brothers best friend, having it go from ‘she fell first’ to ‘they both fell’ was truly wonderful and all that she deserved. Another rip-roaringly fun story from the queen of Scottish Historical Romcoms. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Duke Around and Find Out by Ebony Oaten: This story was great fun. Thomasina & Gerard are such fun, free spirits. Starting their acquaintance with a series of challenges (dares really) sets the tone for a seemingly carefree friendship. The stress comes when Gerard inadvertently becomes Duke and formality threatens their budding romance. Thomasina is bold and vivacious, and Gerard is the standard bold, outgoing rogue. Together their chemistry is hard to deny, a delightful story that I wish could’ve been longer. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at Her Duke by Caroline Lee: Laughing like a chick at hen party, this story was everything I hoped for. Knowing Caroline’s humour and Amelia’s penchant for eggs in blouse, I knew this story would be quirky humour at its finest. My only complaint is that I would’ve loved a full length story for Amelia & Kipling. I fell hard for her in The Duke’s Daring Bride and wanted to see all the antics that 2 years apart would bring. But I still loved what we were given, so I can’t complain (much). The other woman storyline brought an interesting complication and I absolutely loved the dinner time set down. Man, did she have that coming! After seeing Amelia’s pining for her brothers best friend, having it go from ‘she fell first’ to ‘they both fell’ was truly wonderful and all that she deserved. Another rip-roaringly fun story from the queen of Scottish Historical Romcoms. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 17, 2023
awesome themed happily ever after big big big duke energy. Fun stories from a few of my favorite authors and discovered new ones I am going to seek out. Tidbits in this anthology will even get rereads standing in holiday lines. 🔥🔥🫠but for heavens sake keep the screen tilt out of kids’ sight. Because the adult content is 🍆🍆☄️😳 wow
February 6, 2024
I guess I'll just update this review whenever I read another story...
The Duke Experiment by Eva Pendle - 4.25 stars
So there I was, thinking this was a chaste but romantic story about a scientist Duke and the lady scientist who shares his lab (disbelief very much suspended), when bam! — the train scene. 🥵🥵 So. Much. Praise.
Sweet Duke O’Mine by Annabelle Anders - 4 stars
Second chance romance about a Duke and his childhood sweetheart + amnesia trope? I enjoyed this, and it wasn’t as OTT drama as I expected. Something about it felt very 80s/90s and gave me Richard Gere vibes.
The Duke Experiment by Eva Pendle - 4.25 stars
So there I was, thinking this was a chaste but romantic story about a scientist Duke and the lady scientist who shares his lab (disbelief very much suspended), when bam! — the train scene. 🥵🥵 So. Much. Praise.
Sweet Duke O’Mine by Annabelle Anders - 4 stars
Second chance romance about a Duke and his childhood sweetheart + amnesia trope? I enjoyed this, and it wasn’t as OTT drama as I expected. Something about it felt very 80s/90s and gave me Richard Gere vibes.
September 11, 2023
An Improper Duke – Amy Rose Bennett
Bookish Celia Wyndham, the widowed Lady Ashdown, has been in love and in lust with her stepson Andrew’s best friend, Hugo Dehavilland, the Duke of Tremayne for years. When Hugo attends a week-long house party at Ashdown Hall and then accidentally reads her diary he suggests they embark on an affair.
An older widow & her stepson’s best friend is a trope I've not read in quite some time & it was a steamy yet charming read, unrequited love & longing made for a captivating read & once again devoured it in a sitting. Oh my the chemistry was off the scale. I loved it
The Duke’s Treasure - Ellie St Clair
The Duke of Sheffield resists finding a bride and taking on the duties of his noble title, he’d rather lead a life of adventure. He hears of a legendary treasure & sets out to find it but faces one obstacle a Spanish woman with nothing to lose.
Another easy to read engrossing novella, the characters are well portrayed & the pace is good. I loved both Edward & Mariana & devoured their story in a sitting. I also loved that it sets the scene for one of the author's series
Sweet Duke of Mine – Annabelle Anders
Alastair Frampton & Daisy Montgomery were childhood sweethearts but were torn apart when his father the Duke of Lovington was taken ill. A decade later she finds a man severely injured behind her home, imagine her surprised when she discovers it's Alastair.
A lovely second chance, memory loss novella, which I devoured in a sitting
The Duke Experiment – Eve Pendle
Widow Emma Hanover is this close to achieving her academic dreams when an accident forces her to accept help from her nemesis, the Duke of Eastfield. Matthew fell utterly in love with Emma the moment she walked into the laboratory. Now a year later he has one chance to make her see that they’re perfect for each other. So he proposes an experiment.
The chemistry sizzled in this slow burn romance. It’s delightful, the banter is humorous & they were made for each other
A bumper anthology with over 700 pages, stories range across the scale whether steamy or chaste kisses. Some of the best historical romance authors have produced some wonderful short stories
Bookish Celia Wyndham, the widowed Lady Ashdown, has been in love and in lust with her stepson Andrew’s best friend, Hugo Dehavilland, the Duke of Tremayne for years. When Hugo attends a week-long house party at Ashdown Hall and then accidentally reads her diary he suggests they embark on an affair.
An older widow & her stepson’s best friend is a trope I've not read in quite some time & it was a steamy yet charming read, unrequited love & longing made for a captivating read & once again devoured it in a sitting. Oh my the chemistry was off the scale. I loved it
The Duke’s Treasure - Ellie St Clair
The Duke of Sheffield resists finding a bride and taking on the duties of his noble title, he’d rather lead a life of adventure. He hears of a legendary treasure & sets out to find it but faces one obstacle a Spanish woman with nothing to lose.
Another easy to read engrossing novella, the characters are well portrayed & the pace is good. I loved both Edward & Mariana & devoured their story in a sitting. I also loved that it sets the scene for one of the author's series
Sweet Duke of Mine – Annabelle Anders
Alastair Frampton & Daisy Montgomery were childhood sweethearts but were torn apart when his father the Duke of Lovington was taken ill. A decade later she finds a man severely injured behind her home, imagine her surprised when she discovers it's Alastair.
A lovely second chance, memory loss novella, which I devoured in a sitting
The Duke Experiment – Eve Pendle
Widow Emma Hanover is this close to achieving her academic dreams when an accident forces her to accept help from her nemesis, the Duke of Eastfield. Matthew fell utterly in love with Emma the moment she walked into the laboratory. Now a year later he has one chance to make her see that they’re perfect for each other. So he proposes an experiment.
The chemistry sizzled in this slow burn romance. It’s delightful, the banter is humorous & they were made for each other
A bumper anthology with over 700 pages, stories range across the scale whether steamy or chaste kisses. Some of the best historical romance authors have produced some wonderful short stories
August 28, 2023
I received an advanced copy of sweet duke of mine by Annabelle Anders.
As always she manages to captures great storyline with a great characters who not only have sparks from beginning to end but she packs in a bit of fun along the way.
Daisy and Alistair were inseparable until his father dies, then his uncle takes over until he reaches his majority. however Daisy and her family are forced to leave the only home they've ever known and make their way in London.
Several years pass by and not only has Daisy lost her parents, and her aunt but she's raising her brother by herself while running a soap business for upper class. She finds herself rescuing the man who she thought she would never see again and she swore to never let back into her life after what happened to her and her family.
Life has a cruel way of showing us that love will always find its way.
~~~~~~
I received an advanced copy of The Duke's Treasure by Ellie St Clair.
An amazing story from chapter one to the epilogue.
He goes to Spain with the intention to find stolen treasure however what he finds is a beautiful treasure that he is priceless and steals his heart.
She has no interest in marriage ever again until an English Duke shows up claiming he is looking for treasure.. The one thing she didn't think would happen was that he would be her treasure.
The treasure he and she were looking for together ended up being found with each other and in each other's hearts.
This story is short but its filled with adventure, love, steam and strong characters.
I loved this story from beginning to end.
As always she manages to captures great storyline with a great characters who not only have sparks from beginning to end but she packs in a bit of fun along the way.
Daisy and Alistair were inseparable until his father dies, then his uncle takes over until he reaches his majority. however Daisy and her family are forced to leave the only home they've ever known and make their way in London.
Several years pass by and not only has Daisy lost her parents, and her aunt but she's raising her brother by herself while running a soap business for upper class. She finds herself rescuing the man who she thought she would never see again and she swore to never let back into her life after what happened to her and her family.
Life has a cruel way of showing us that love will always find its way.
~~~~~~
I received an advanced copy of The Duke's Treasure by Ellie St Clair.
An amazing story from chapter one to the epilogue.
He goes to Spain with the intention to find stolen treasure however what he finds is a beautiful treasure that he is priceless and steals his heart.
She has no interest in marriage ever again until an English Duke shows up claiming he is looking for treasure.. The one thing she didn't think would happen was that he would be her treasure.
The treasure he and she were looking for together ended up being found with each other and in each other's hearts.
This story is short but its filled with adventure, love, steam and strong characters.
I loved this story from beginning to end.
October 10, 2023
Huge anthology with lots of sexy stories to choose from.
September 13, 2023
I have only read The Duke’s Treasure by Ellie St. Claire from this Anthology and that is the story I will be reviewing.
This is a short and sweet story. Edward is a Duke who loves adventure. Marianna is the widow of a Spanish Marquess. Their meeting is magical. The author brings the characters to life the growth of their relationship as they find how well they match.
This is a short and sweet story. Edward is a Duke who loves adventure. Marianna is the widow of a Spanish Marquess. Their meeting is magical. The author brings the characters to life the growth of their relationship as they find how well they match.
September 17, 2023
Sweet Duke of Mine by Annabelle Anders
5 Stars
Starring Miss Daisy Margaret Montgomery and Alastair William Arthur Frampton, 6th Duke of Lovington.
Tropes: Best Friends to Lovers, Childhood Friends to Lovers, Different Social Class, Hero is a Peer, Working Class Heroine, Forbidden Love, Second Chance, Each Other’s Firsts, Fake/Pretend Husband-ish, Amnesia, Forced Proximity, Intrigue
Y’all… can I just bask in this book hangover for a bit? Coz I am still sighing over Alastair and Daisy’s HEA. I am such a sucker for childhood friends to lovers… I think it gives the characters a little more depth to have some history.
Alastair and Daisy’s courtship began the minute they started becoming friends, then grew into something more. My heart broke when fate conspired to tear them apart (for many years), but sometimes I think that’s what is needed in helping characters to grow as individuals… altho imma over here going nooooo coz it was really sad and Daisy went through a lot to be where she’s at!!!
Alastair gets beaten up pretty badly and left for dead. Daisy finds him and nurses him back to health… except he wakes up with no memories. I love the whole amnesia angle in this story. Daisy knows the pain that she went through in losing Alastair…. and he’s like, what could have possibly happened for me to let you go?! But I love them rediscovering each other… coz these two had soooooo much heat. The shaving scene was so hawt… sometimes I like a nonsmexual scenes that I can giggle over because it’s filled with so much pent up emotions!! Le sigh!!!
Annabelle Anders is an author I KNOW will take me on an emotional ride with her stories… and I gladly line up for the feels. This was another winner for me and another confirmation why she a fave keeper shelf author 💜 Absolutely loved it!!
*******
The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
5 Stars
Starring Mrs. Estela “Stella” Bongorge and Theodore “Theo” Rockley, Duke of Pembridge
Tropes: Lessons in… ah… Love Making, Mature Heroine, Set Outside of England, Forced Proximity, Instant Attraction, He's Engaged to Another
Okay, y'all… Mrs Estela Bongorge first made an appearance as a minor character in a Lady’s Guide to Scandal. I almost fell outta my chair from laughing so hard. She is so wonderfully unfiltered and raunchy as heck… and I applaud Emmanuelle de Maupassant for creating a woman who knows who she is, knows what she wants, and having the best time living life out loud, flaunting her womanly wiles at every gentleman that crosses her path. She was refreshing.
I was soooo excited that she was going to get her own book!! And when I got an early copy I squeed my pants!! OMFG!! I was delightfully entertained from page one of The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes. I went through so many emotions. Laughing till I couldn’t breathe (Estela’s Godmother’s are a hoot)… then ooooooh mmmmmmying because Estela and her very well endowed hero, Theo were hawt af!! Honestly, read this in front of a fan!!
Theo is such a swoon worthy hero. He has one small… uh, well actually, rather…. big problem that he needs Estela’s expertise and advice on. Okay, Theo and Estela’s banter over his predicament will have you smiling from ear to ear…. they are so fun and naughty every time they shared the same space. But there is a sweetness about their time together too. Theo centers Estela and challenges her because he doesn’t react the way all the men in her life has. Plus he has a really big… ahem… heart!! I love him so much!!
In the quiet times she’s with Theo, Estela can truly be herself and there’s a beautiful vulnerability there. How scary to be experiencing this out of control emotion, when she fancies herself in control of everything. It’s actually very rare that I fall in love with a heroine, but honestly, Estela Bongorge is so complex and will truly fascinate you.
Theo and Estela are a delight and Emmanuelle de Maupassant has once again given us characters to cheer for. I had a few ugly cry af moments too!! Emmanuelle has the gift of description and you will be transported into her world. I also love that she gives us unexpected locations. This one is set in Italy and on a ship, so that was a nice change of scenery from the traditional English setting. So, Emmanuelle, go ahead and stand up for this one… time to give you a standing ovation for another amazing story!!
**********
OMG Becky Look at Her Duke by Caroline Lee
5stars
Starring Lady Amelia “Mellie” Kincaid and Kipling “Kip” Mancheste, Duke of Bestingbum
Trope: Older Brother’s Best Friend, Unrequited Love (both), Hero Engaged-ish to Another, Cinnamon Roll Hero Okay, y’all… first of all can we just whoop whoop Caroline Lee for this ☝️☝️☝️very clever title, please? You already KNOW it’s going to be a fun time!! And so fitting with the I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie anthology… did you sing it? 🙋🏻♀️🙋🏻♀️I did 🙋🏻♀️🙋🏻♀️
Amelia and Kip were simply adorable. These two have pined for each other since they were kids. Kip is Amelia’s older bother’s BFF and he never thought he was good enough for her. And she was very young at the time, so it’s kinda nice that they had time apart before they started their romance.
Kip is a delicious cinnamon roll hero… and I could have eaten him up with a spoon. Things are looking up for him now that he’s returned to England. He is now the new Duke of Bestingbum (giggle). But with a dukedom comes great responsibilities… and a nagging mother wanting him to marry. She has already chosen his bride. Kip may have been content with the choice, but he runs into Amelia again…. ooooh their feelings for each other are stronger than ever, y’all.
Amelia is an unconventional heroine, and I love that she not the typical English rose. She has a menagerie of unusual pets that she collects and takes care of. She was such a delight. Let’s just say that she will always keep things interesting for Kip…. and he absolutely loves her quirkiness.
I love that most of Kip and Amelia’s “getting to know you again” conversations were made in a quiet setting with just the two of them…. (well, and a chicken named, Becky… those who’ve read the book are chuckling with me). Like sooooo adorbes, y’all!! And when they finally get together… they will steam up your reader. No close door for these two. I fanned myself then cheered for their HEA!!
My three emotions every time I read a Caroline Lee story… I laugh, sigh, and ugly cry!! I know that she’s the Queen of LOL, but she has these tender moments in each of her books that always goes straight to the feels and I just love it!! Her stories are pure sunshine and they always leave my heart happy… and that’s why she’s a keeper shelf author. (Psst… don’t forget to read her author’s note… just as entertaining as her stories)
Favorite Book Couples List 2023
Ugly Cry AF Achieved
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
5 Stars
Starring Miss Daisy Margaret Montgomery and Alastair William Arthur Frampton, 6th Duke of Lovington.
Tropes: Best Friends to Lovers, Childhood Friends to Lovers, Different Social Class, Hero is a Peer, Working Class Heroine, Forbidden Love, Second Chance, Each Other’s Firsts, Fake/Pretend Husband-ish, Amnesia, Forced Proximity, Intrigue
Y’all… can I just bask in this book hangover for a bit? Coz I am still sighing over Alastair and Daisy’s HEA. I am such a sucker for childhood friends to lovers… I think it gives the characters a little more depth to have some history.
Alastair and Daisy’s courtship began the minute they started becoming friends, then grew into something more. My heart broke when fate conspired to tear them apart (for many years), but sometimes I think that’s what is needed in helping characters to grow as individuals… altho imma over here going nooooo coz it was really sad and Daisy went through a lot to be where she’s at!!!
Alastair gets beaten up pretty badly and left for dead. Daisy finds him and nurses him back to health… except he wakes up with no memories. I love the whole amnesia angle in this story. Daisy knows the pain that she went through in losing Alastair…. and he’s like, what could have possibly happened for me to let you go?! But I love them rediscovering each other… coz these two had soooooo much heat. The shaving scene was so hawt… sometimes I like a nonsmexual scenes that I can giggle over because it’s filled with so much pent up emotions!! Le sigh!!!
Annabelle Anders is an author I KNOW will take me on an emotional ride with her stories… and I gladly line up for the feels. This was another winner for me and another confirmation why she a fave keeper shelf author 💜 Absolutely loved it!!
*******
The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
5 Stars
Starring Mrs. Estela “Stella” Bongorge and Theodore “Theo” Rockley, Duke of Pembridge
Tropes: Lessons in… ah… Love Making, Mature Heroine, Set Outside of England, Forced Proximity, Instant Attraction, He's Engaged to Another
Okay, y'all… Mrs Estela Bongorge first made an appearance as a minor character in a Lady’s Guide to Scandal. I almost fell outta my chair from laughing so hard. She is so wonderfully unfiltered and raunchy as heck… and I applaud Emmanuelle de Maupassant for creating a woman who knows who she is, knows what she wants, and having the best time living life out loud, flaunting her womanly wiles at every gentleman that crosses her path. She was refreshing.
I was soooo excited that she was going to get her own book!! And when I got an early copy I squeed my pants!! OMFG!! I was delightfully entertained from page one of The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes. I went through so many emotions. Laughing till I couldn’t breathe (Estela’s Godmother’s are a hoot)… then ooooooh mmmmmmying because Estela and her very well endowed hero, Theo were hawt af!! Honestly, read this in front of a fan!!
Theo is such a swoon worthy hero. He has one small… uh, well actually, rather…. big problem that he needs Estela’s expertise and advice on. Okay, Theo and Estela’s banter over his predicament will have you smiling from ear to ear…. they are so fun and naughty every time they shared the same space. But there is a sweetness about their time together too. Theo centers Estela and challenges her because he doesn’t react the way all the men in her life has. Plus he has a really big… ahem… heart!! I love him so much!!
In the quiet times she’s with Theo, Estela can truly be herself and there’s a beautiful vulnerability there. How scary to be experiencing this out of control emotion, when she fancies herself in control of everything. It’s actually very rare that I fall in love with a heroine, but honestly, Estela Bongorge is so complex and will truly fascinate you.
Theo and Estela are a delight and Emmanuelle de Maupassant has once again given us characters to cheer for. I had a few ugly cry af moments too!! Emmanuelle has the gift of description and you will be transported into her world. I also love that she gives us unexpected locations. This one is set in Italy and on a ship, so that was a nice change of scenery from the traditional English setting. So, Emmanuelle, go ahead and stand up for this one… time to give you a standing ovation for another amazing story!!
**********
OMG Becky Look at Her Duke by Caroline Lee
5stars
Starring Lady Amelia “Mellie” Kincaid and Kipling “Kip” Mancheste, Duke of Bestingbum
Trope: Older Brother’s Best Friend, Unrequited Love (both), Hero Engaged-ish to Another, Cinnamon Roll Hero Okay, y’all… first of all can we just whoop whoop Caroline Lee for this ☝️☝️☝️very clever title, please? You already KNOW it’s going to be a fun time!! And so fitting with the I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie anthology… did you sing it? 🙋🏻♀️🙋🏻♀️I did 🙋🏻♀️🙋🏻♀️
Amelia and Kip were simply adorable. These two have pined for each other since they were kids. Kip is Amelia’s older bother’s BFF and he never thought he was good enough for her. And she was very young at the time, so it’s kinda nice that they had time apart before they started their romance.
Kip is a delicious cinnamon roll hero… and I could have eaten him up with a spoon. Things are looking up for him now that he’s returned to England. He is now the new Duke of Bestingbum (giggle). But with a dukedom comes great responsibilities… and a nagging mother wanting him to marry. She has already chosen his bride. Kip may have been content with the choice, but he runs into Amelia again…. ooooh their feelings for each other are stronger than ever, y’all.
Amelia is an unconventional heroine, and I love that she not the typical English rose. She has a menagerie of unusual pets that she collects and takes care of. She was such a delight. Let’s just say that she will always keep things interesting for Kip…. and he absolutely loves her quirkiness.
I love that most of Kip and Amelia’s “getting to know you again” conversations were made in a quiet setting with just the two of them…. (well, and a chicken named, Becky… those who’ve read the book are chuckling with me). Like sooooo adorbes, y’all!! And when they finally get together… they will steam up your reader. No close door for these two. I fanned myself then cheered for their HEA!!
My three emotions every time I read a Caroline Lee story… I laugh, sigh, and ugly cry!! I know that she’s the Queen of LOL, but she has these tender moments in each of her books that always goes straight to the feels and I just love it!! Her stories are pure sunshine and they always leave my heart happy… and that’s why she’s a keeper shelf author. (Psst… don’t forget to read her author’s note… just as entertaining as her stories)
Favorite Book Couples List 2023
Ugly Cry AF Achieved
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily review it and the comments are 100% my own.
September 1, 2023
This review is for An Improper Duke by Amy Rose Bennett, a light, fun novella in the "I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie" anthology. It involves Celia, a widowed viscountess who has always had a bit of a tendre for her stepson's best friend, Hugo, who is now the Duke of Tremayne and 8 years her junior (he's 26; she's 34). Hugo knows that he has always loved Celia from afar, given their shared interests in antiquities and ancient civilizations. She writes down her sexual fantasies about Hugo in her diary, but leaves it out in the library, where Hugo, of course, finds it, reads it and later offers to help Celia check each item off her list over the course of a week-long house party. In 2 days' time, all the items have been completed, but Hugo wants more of a future with Celia than just one week. He wants her to become his Duchess.
It was an enjoyable novella, where everything goes right, even the confrontation later on with the stepson. And in Amy Rose Bennett's hands, it is well-written, with multiple hot sex scenes. For me, I did want a little more conflict or tension between these two main characters, and while a novella is meant to be short and sweet, it was a little too short, and everything was a little too easy for them. I would have loved a little more of their story in a longer book. And I suspect it's not too much of a coincidence that Hugo is HUGE, with Celia having much to say (or compliment him) on the topic; perhaps she might have been a tad overly effusive about it. Still, Celia and Hugo are sweet together, and he accepts her for who she is, without the perfect body, and Celia finds new confidence in herself and passionate love along the way.
I received an ARC of this novella from the author, and I am leaving my review here voluntarily.
It was an enjoyable novella, where everything goes right, even the confrontation later on with the stepson. And in Amy Rose Bennett's hands, it is well-written, with multiple hot sex scenes. For me, I did want a little more conflict or tension between these two main characters, and while a novella is meant to be short and sweet, it was a little too short, and everything was a little too easy for them. I would have loved a little more of their story in a longer book. And I suspect it's not too much of a coincidence that Hugo is HUGE, with Celia having much to say (or compliment him) on the topic; perhaps she might have been a tad overly effusive about it. Still, Celia and Hugo are sweet together, and he accepts her for who she is, without the perfect body, and Celia finds new confidence in herself and passionate love along the way.
I received an ARC of this novella from the author, and I am leaving my review here voluntarily.
September 12, 2023
An Enticing Anthology . . .
An excellent story to start with is Ebony Oaten’s story, DUKE AROUND AND FIND OUT, which I briefly review below to give you an idea of what you will find here. It is one of the titles included in this Anthology entitled “I LIKE BIG DUKES AND I CANNOT LIE”. A number of authors have contributed their stories, so this should definitely be a wonderful experience enjoyed by many!
“Reviewing “DUKE AROUND AND FIND OUT” by Ebony Oaten ***
Wallflower Thomasina Burke is ignored while her younger sister captures all of the attention as she gracefully dances in the ballroom. Actually Thomasina found it quite liberating that the attention is on her sister and could be maintained if she kept herself hidden within the shadows. She had already told her mother that this fourth Season would be her last. She would take the financial pressure off her family as well since her father had agreed to allow her to move to Brighton where a cousin had requested that Thomasina take on the role of governess to her growing children. So she had a plan. But when she fussed with her glove and accidentally stepped out of the shadows, she bumped into a man. He smiled and bowed at her. Was the sudden warmth she felt from him, or was she the one reacting? Thomasina Burke and Lord Gerard Taunton, the younger brother of the Duke of Wolster, distract and amuse themselves by making increasingly bold wagers, challenging each other, during this boring Season where neither have an interest in actively participating in finding a match – although Lord Taunton was considered by the Ton to be this season’s prize catch. She thoroughly enjoyed the conversations with him and the game they played. But when his brother Matthew has a lethal dueling accident, Taunton is elevated to become the new Duke with all new responsibilities, and he is no longer within Thomasina’s reach – unless he is willing to do something about that. What will he suggest? And would it be acceptable to Thomasina?
An excellent story to start with is Ebony Oaten’s story, DUKE AROUND AND FIND OUT, which I briefly review below to give you an idea of what you will find here. It is one of the titles included in this Anthology entitled “I LIKE BIG DUKES AND I CANNOT LIE”. A number of authors have contributed their stories, so this should definitely be a wonderful experience enjoyed by many!
“Reviewing “DUKE AROUND AND FIND OUT” by Ebony Oaten ***
Wallflower Thomasina Burke is ignored while her younger sister captures all of the attention as she gracefully dances in the ballroom. Actually Thomasina found it quite liberating that the attention is on her sister and could be maintained if she kept herself hidden within the shadows. She had already told her mother that this fourth Season would be her last. She would take the financial pressure off her family as well since her father had agreed to allow her to move to Brighton where a cousin had requested that Thomasina take on the role of governess to her growing children. So she had a plan. But when she fussed with her glove and accidentally stepped out of the shadows, she bumped into a man. He smiled and bowed at her. Was the sudden warmth she felt from him, or was she the one reacting? Thomasina Burke and Lord Gerard Taunton, the younger brother of the Duke of Wolster, distract and amuse themselves by making increasingly bold wagers, challenging each other, during this boring Season where neither have an interest in actively participating in finding a match – although Lord Taunton was considered by the Ton to be this season’s prize catch. She thoroughly enjoyed the conversations with him and the game they played. But when his brother Matthew has a lethal dueling accident, Taunton is elevated to become the new Duke with all new responsibilities, and he is no longer within Thomasina’s reach – unless he is willing to do something about that. What will he suggest? And would it be acceptable to Thomasina?
August 31, 2023
A charming sweet romance!
The ARC novella that I'm reviewing is called Duke Around And Find Out, by Ebony Oaten. It's one of the short stories from the upcoming anthology, I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie.
Thomasina, the FMC is a wallflower with no desire to marry. Gerard is the spare of the duchy. The main characters have an instant chemistry since the first time they meet and it leads them to indulge in fun wagers that escalate to very sexy ways to win at all costs. But then, his brother - the duke - dies. And this change.
But even thought their social status are changed the MMC feelings did not, and he is determined not to loose her and to win her heart until she accepts his proposal of marriage.
This is a very sweet and funny story full of witty banter. It's a delicious short read worthy of your time!
I received this ARC of this novella via Booksprout and voluntarily leaving a review.
The ARC novella that I'm reviewing is called Duke Around And Find Out, by Ebony Oaten. It's one of the short stories from the upcoming anthology, I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie.
Thomasina, the FMC is a wallflower with no desire to marry. Gerard is the spare of the duchy. The main characters have an instant chemistry since the first time they meet and it leads them to indulge in fun wagers that escalate to very sexy ways to win at all costs. But then, his brother - the duke - dies. And this change.
But even thought their social status are changed the MMC feelings did not, and he is determined not to loose her and to win her heart until she accepts his proposal of marriage.
This is a very sweet and funny story full of witty banter. It's a delicious short read worthy of your time!
I received this ARC of this novella via Booksprout and voluntarily leaving a review.
August 22, 2023
I received an ARC of An Improper Duke by Amy Rose Bennett in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
This novella had me from the opening scene where Celia, our bookish heroine is sorting through her library in preparation to move into the dower house on her stepson’s estate. An MFC who loves antiquities is a woman who automatically has my heart! Enter Hugo, Celia's stepson's best friend AND a Duke in his own right. Hugo's here to help Celia 'sort' through her books and to - scandalously - roll up his shirtsleeves while doing so! It's ok Hugo, we all know how book sorting is notoriously hot & sweaty work LOL.
This story checked so many boxes for me - shared intellectual interests; history of mutual longing; older woman, younger man; time limited affair (or so she thinks!); sexy wish list!
My only complaint is the same one I have for most novellas – too short! I would have happily spent a full-length book with Hugo and Celia.
This novella had me from the opening scene where Celia, our bookish heroine is sorting through her library in preparation to move into the dower house on her stepson’s estate. An MFC who loves antiquities is a woman who automatically has my heart! Enter Hugo, Celia's stepson's best friend AND a Duke in his own right. Hugo's here to help Celia 'sort' through her books and to - scandalously - roll up his shirtsleeves while doing so! It's ok Hugo, we all know how book sorting is notoriously hot & sweaty work LOL.
This story checked so many boxes for me - shared intellectual interests; history of mutual longing; older woman, younger man; time limited affair (or so she thinks!); sexy wish list!
My only complaint is the same one I have for most novellas – too short! I would have happily spent a full-length book with Hugo and Celia.
September 30, 2023
...playing coy...
I was a bit disappointed by this anthology. Not too many stories connected with me in this one. Perhaps it was my mood. In a bit of a reading slump so that could be a factor in my rating for this one My favorites stories were Alyssa Clarke's and Stacey Reid's.
I was a bit disappointed by this anthology. Not too many stories connected with me in this one. Perhaps it was my mood. In a bit of a reading slump so that could be a factor in my rating for this one My favorites stories were Alyssa Clarke's and Stacey Reid's.
October 4, 2023
Mixed bag in this anthology. Some editing errors, Regency Rules are not followed in some, and two were more on erotic and I didn't finish or rate.
*******************
I loved how blurbs are listed prior to the stories!
1. SWEET DUKE O'MINE by Annabelle Anders - 5 STARS
What a tug at your heart story!
The H and h were childhood friends. Their relationship became more than friendship when he was 19 and she 17. Life took an unexpected turn for both.
They meet up tragically, 10 years later when the H is beaten to near death behind her house. She slowly realizes who he is and off to the races we go. Two villains known, but who is the true mastermind?
Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and only described twice. One crude word used. No cheating, HEA, romantic and some steam.
2. AN IMPROPER DUKE - by Amy Rose Bennett - didn't rate - COULDN'T FINISH
After the first couple chapter's I couldn't finish - erotic
3. HER RELUCTANT DUKE by Claire Brett - 5 STARS
Such an enjoyable story that had me loving the relationship between the H/h from the start. Story goes from hate to love but is it really hate they both feel?
A nasty villain has caused problems for 10 years. This story has great main and secondary characters that I hope we get a story about the H's sister and their cousin. Usually in an anthology novella's, you don't get a chance barely to form an attachment to the MC, let alone secondary ones.
Lovemaking outside of marriage heat level 2.5 ou tof 5 and filled with passion and love.
Some hiccups along the way that kept the pace spot on. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic and a tad of steam.
4. DUKES GIVE LOVE A BAD NAME by C. Sinders - 3.5 STARS
This story pulled at my heartstrings for most of the story. Then it was like it was written by a different author. The beginning we meet the H and his father is dying. The father explains something to him and makes the H promise him something. This is where the H life changes drastically.
We then meet the h who is a teacher/friend to three young women. They are summoned by the H and within 48 hours, he proposes. He's now a Duke, the h is a school teacher and he proposes marriage and she agrees. Granted it is a novella, but I didn't feel a connection to this couple. After they meet, most of their interactions were told and not experienced,
Lovemaking within marriage heat level 2 out of 5 and explained once. No cheating, HEA, no romance and some spice.
5. TWO DARES, A DUKES AND A RUNAWAY BRIDE BY Alyssa Clarke - 5 STARS
The h made a very hasty decision and it almost cost her a miserable future. She takes matters into her own hands and flees to an inn. There she makes another hasty decision but this one was far better.
I enjoyed the journey these two took to get to their HEA. I found the story romantic and there's lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5.
No cheating, HEA, romance and steam.
6. A LADY'S GUIDE TO AN WELL-ENDOWED DUKE by Emmanuelle Maupassant- didn't rate/couldn't finish!
Didn't feel a connection to them - more lust and crude talk
7. MY VIRTUOUS DUKE - by Tamara Gill - 4.25
Tale of friends since childhood and she is a widow and he is a virgin Duke. She tutors him in seduction and they both fall under each others spell.
I felt a connection to them, lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. No cheating, sweet epilogue 2 months in the future, some romance and steam. one crude word used.
8. OH. MY. GOD, BECKY, LOOK AT HER DUKE by Caroline Lee - 5 STARS
This author is such a joy to read. You know she will not only make you laugh, but her stories are far from cookie cutter types.
I loved how this story unraveled their feelings for each other. He saw the quirkeyness in her and embraced it. The way he put someone down at the dinner party, made me want to hug him.
Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and filled with passion. Romance builds slowly and they were perfect for each other.
No cheating, HEA, romantic, Lord's name used in vain once, and a tad of spice.
9. THE DUKE SHE DEFIED by Carrie Lomax - 3.25 STARS
An h who seemed immature for her 21 years of age. A Duke who I couldn't see why he was interested in her. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 5 out of 5. Since I didn't feel a connection to them, it was just sex.
No cheating, HEA, little on romance, two crude words used, and steam. I did enjoy the epilogue 3 years in the future.
10. THE DUKE'S ARTFUL DILEMMA by Beverly Oakley- 4 STARS
Unique storyline that I enjoyed. Some of the aspects of the story were confusing. The H hires a man to make 3 quick sketches of someone trying to kill the Prince Regent. How they know someone is going to attempt this wasn't clear. Why need the sketches when you have eye witnesses?
The h poses as her brothers mental ill wife because she is the real talent in the family doing sketches. The H really thinks she is the "wife." Does this stop him from taking her to bed - no.
Some secrets exposed, little on romance - more lust, some suspense, ending was abrupt. Lovemaking outside of marriage 3 out of 5. I liked the banter between the h and some of the women at a party.
11. DUKE AROUND AND FIND OUT - by Ebony Oaten - 5 STARS
Wallflower meets the second son of a Duke - both hiding and to pass the time make an innocent dare. This they do over the course of several functions that was sweet. Regency rules not followed - he dances with her 4 times in an evening - a big no no.
Friendship and then love blooms - romance builds slowly. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. No cheating, HEA and some steam.
12. THE DUKE EXPERIMENT - by Eva Pendle - 4.5 STARS
First book I've read by this author and I enjoyed it. Parts are unique and the H is a Duke with no responsibilities it seems. He is also a Dr./Scientist. He ends up having to share his lab with a women who is working on her doctorate in 1874.
Romance builds slowly and lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4+ out of 5. No cheating, great banter, HEA, romantic, crude words used and steam.
13. HER DARING DUKE by Sky Purington 3.75 STARS
The h is at a party and decides to make a dare with her male friends. Three men accept but only 1 the h truly in love.
I love this author but this one just didn't have me feeling a connection. I found the dares to be immature.
Lovemaking outside of marriage and heat level 2.5 out of 5.
No cheating, HEA, nice ending, little on romance and a tad of spice.
14. HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DUKE by Amy Quinton - 5 STARS
Friends to more was a sweet journey to see how they transformed. The h is best friends with the H's sister and he's been gone for awhile. They pick up their banter as if time hadn't happened.
No villains, just two people realizing their is more to their friendship. Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4+ out of 5 and filled with passion and not lust. No cheating, HEA, romantic and steam. Crude words used a few times.
15. A DUKE OF HER OWN by Stacy Reid - 4.5 STARS
Such an enjoyable story. Both H/h are keeping secrets, which I usually dislike, but in this case I understood. In a short novella this author had me caring for both MC, and I felt a connection to them. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5.
The h's secret had me wondering, why didn't she know more about the man her secret is tied too? How was the H able to get away so often and for weeks at a time?
No cheating, HEA, some romance and tad of spice.
16. ONE SEASON WITH THE DUKE by Lily Reynard - 4 STARS
I couldn't understand when the H confesses to the h about his reasons for the betrothed, why she was upset. Then the way people reacted when she was in the park with her family, baffled me. It took forever for her mother to react too.
Twist with the villain that was surprising. Foreplay prior to marriage, heat level 5 out of 5.
I did like the H and understood why he kept what happened to him from the h. No cheating, little on romance, second chance story, HEA and steam.
17. THE DUKE'S TREASURE by Ellie St. Clair - 4.25 STARS
Very unique storyline that was more than enjoyable. The H is a Duke but is always after the next adventure, which leads him to Spain.
He meets a Noble Spanish lady and together they hunt for a treasure that may be hidden on her property. I did feel a connection to this couple. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5.
I had more questions than answers in this story. What happened to the women he was to marry? Did his brother recover from a broken heart? Who told the Country of Spain what they may have? Which faith did they get married in?
No cheating, HEA, enjoyable epilogue and steam.
18. WHEN THE DUKE BOUGHT A WIFE by Mariah Stone - 4 STARS
I must say, very unique and had to suspend belief on most of the story, but entertaining. Cheating between the H/h, which isn't my cup of tea, no matter the reason. Plus the H parents cheated, but off page. Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5.
Some suspense, HEA, little romance and steam.
19. THE DUKE DECEPTION by Laura Trentham - 3.5 STARS
I believe one of the shortest novella's in this anthology, but enjoyable. H/h from New York, and hide their identities at a masquerade ball in England.
She has loved the H forever, he barely knows she exists in NY, even though she sits behind him at Church. They make love outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. He cleans her and doesn't notice she was a Virgin? He meets up with her again, and doesn't state how he figured out where she would be.
Little on romance, HEA, steam and ends abruptly. Yes I know it was short, but a few more pages about their future would have been nice. (ljb)
*******************
I loved how blurbs are listed prior to the stories!
1. SWEET DUKE O'MINE by Annabelle Anders - 5 STARS
What a tug at your heart story!
The H and h were childhood friends. Their relationship became more than friendship when he was 19 and she 17. Life took an unexpected turn for both.
They meet up tragically, 10 years later when the H is beaten to near death behind her house. She slowly realizes who he is and off to the races we go. Two villains known, but who is the true mastermind?
Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and only described twice. One crude word used. No cheating, HEA, romantic and some steam.
2. AN IMPROPER DUKE - by Amy Rose Bennett - didn't rate - COULDN'T FINISH
After the first couple chapter's I couldn't finish - erotic
3. HER RELUCTANT DUKE by Claire Brett - 5 STARS
Such an enjoyable story that had me loving the relationship between the H/h from the start. Story goes from hate to love but is it really hate they both feel?
A nasty villain has caused problems for 10 years. This story has great main and secondary characters that I hope we get a story about the H's sister and their cousin. Usually in an anthology novella's, you don't get a chance barely to form an attachment to the MC, let alone secondary ones.
Lovemaking outside of marriage heat level 2.5 ou tof 5 and filled with passion and love.
Some hiccups along the way that kept the pace spot on. No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, romantic and a tad of steam.
4. DUKES GIVE LOVE A BAD NAME by C. Sinders - 3.5 STARS
This story pulled at my heartstrings for most of the story. Then it was like it was written by a different author. The beginning we meet the H and his father is dying. The father explains something to him and makes the H promise him something. This is where the H life changes drastically.
We then meet the h who is a teacher/friend to three young women. They are summoned by the H and within 48 hours, he proposes. He's now a Duke, the h is a school teacher and he proposes marriage and she agrees. Granted it is a novella, but I didn't feel a connection to this couple. After they meet, most of their interactions were told and not experienced,
Lovemaking within marriage heat level 2 out of 5 and explained once. No cheating, HEA, no romance and some spice.
5. TWO DARES, A DUKES AND A RUNAWAY BRIDE BY Alyssa Clarke - 5 STARS
The h made a very hasty decision and it almost cost her a miserable future. She takes matters into her own hands and flees to an inn. There she makes another hasty decision but this one was far better.
I enjoyed the journey these two took to get to their HEA. I found the story romantic and there's lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5.
No cheating, HEA, romance and steam.
6. A LADY'S GUIDE TO AN WELL-ENDOWED DUKE by Emmanuelle Maupassant- didn't rate/couldn't finish!
Didn't feel a connection to them - more lust and crude talk
7. MY VIRTUOUS DUKE - by Tamara Gill - 4.25
Tale of friends since childhood and she is a widow and he is a virgin Duke. She tutors him in seduction and they both fall under each others spell.
I felt a connection to them, lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. No cheating, sweet epilogue 2 months in the future, some romance and steam. one crude word used.
8. OH. MY. GOD, BECKY, LOOK AT HER DUKE by Caroline Lee - 5 STARS
This author is such a joy to read. You know she will not only make you laugh, but her stories are far from cookie cutter types.
I loved how this story unraveled their feelings for each other. He saw the quirkeyness in her and embraced it. The way he put someone down at the dinner party, made me want to hug him.
Lovemaking within marriage - heat level 4 out of 5 and filled with passion. Romance builds slowly and they were perfect for each other.
No cheating, HEA, romantic, Lord's name used in vain once, and a tad of spice.
9. THE DUKE SHE DEFIED by Carrie Lomax - 3.25 STARS
An h who seemed immature for her 21 years of age. A Duke who I couldn't see why he was interested in her. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 5 out of 5. Since I didn't feel a connection to them, it was just sex.
No cheating, HEA, little on romance, two crude words used, and steam. I did enjoy the epilogue 3 years in the future.
10. THE DUKE'S ARTFUL DILEMMA by Beverly Oakley- 4 STARS
Unique storyline that I enjoyed. Some of the aspects of the story were confusing. The H hires a man to make 3 quick sketches of someone trying to kill the Prince Regent. How they know someone is going to attempt this wasn't clear. Why need the sketches when you have eye witnesses?
The h poses as her brothers mental ill wife because she is the real talent in the family doing sketches. The H really thinks she is the "wife." Does this stop him from taking her to bed - no.
Some secrets exposed, little on romance - more lust, some suspense, ending was abrupt. Lovemaking outside of marriage 3 out of 5. I liked the banter between the h and some of the women at a party.
11. DUKE AROUND AND FIND OUT - by Ebony Oaten - 5 STARS
Wallflower meets the second son of a Duke - both hiding and to pass the time make an innocent dare. This they do over the course of several functions that was sweet. Regency rules not followed - he dances with her 4 times in an evening - a big no no.
Friendship and then love blooms - romance builds slowly. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. No cheating, HEA and some steam.
12. THE DUKE EXPERIMENT - by Eva Pendle - 4.5 STARS
First book I've read by this author and I enjoyed it. Parts are unique and the H is a Duke with no responsibilities it seems. He is also a Dr./Scientist. He ends up having to share his lab with a women who is working on her doctorate in 1874.
Romance builds slowly and lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4+ out of 5. No cheating, great banter, HEA, romantic, crude words used and steam.
13. HER DARING DUKE by Sky Purington 3.75 STARS
The h is at a party and decides to make a dare with her male friends. Three men accept but only 1 the h truly in love.
I love this author but this one just didn't have me feeling a connection. I found the dares to be immature.
Lovemaking outside of marriage and heat level 2.5 out of 5.
No cheating, HEA, nice ending, little on romance and a tad of spice.
14. HOW TO TRAIN YOUR DUKE by Amy Quinton - 5 STARS
Friends to more was a sweet journey to see how they transformed. The h is best friends with the H's sister and he's been gone for awhile. They pick up their banter as if time hadn't happened.
No villains, just two people realizing their is more to their friendship. Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4+ out of 5 and filled with passion and not lust. No cheating, HEA, romantic and steam. Crude words used a few times.
15. A DUKE OF HER OWN by Stacy Reid - 4.5 STARS
Such an enjoyable story. Both H/h are keeping secrets, which I usually dislike, but in this case I understood. In a short novella this author had me caring for both MC, and I felt a connection to them. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5.
The h's secret had me wondering, why didn't she know more about the man her secret is tied too? How was the H able to get away so often and for weeks at a time?
No cheating, HEA, some romance and tad of spice.
16. ONE SEASON WITH THE DUKE by Lily Reynard - 4 STARS
I couldn't understand when the H confesses to the h about his reasons for the betrothed, why she was upset. Then the way people reacted when she was in the park with her family, baffled me. It took forever for her mother to react too.
Twist with the villain that was surprising. Foreplay prior to marriage, heat level 5 out of 5.
I did like the H and understood why he kept what happened to him from the h. No cheating, little on romance, second chance story, HEA and steam.
17. THE DUKE'S TREASURE by Ellie St. Clair - 4.25 STARS
Very unique storyline that was more than enjoyable. The H is a Duke but is always after the next adventure, which leads him to Spain.
He meets a Noble Spanish lady and together they hunt for a treasure that may be hidden on her property. I did feel a connection to this couple. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5.
I had more questions than answers in this story. What happened to the women he was to marry? Did his brother recover from a broken heart? Who told the Country of Spain what they may have? Which faith did they get married in?
No cheating, HEA, enjoyable epilogue and steam.
18. WHEN THE DUKE BOUGHT A WIFE by Mariah Stone - 4 STARS
I must say, very unique and had to suspend belief on most of the story, but entertaining. Cheating between the H/h, which isn't my cup of tea, no matter the reason. Plus the H parents cheated, but off page. Lovemaking outside of marriage, heat level 4 out of 5.
Some suspense, HEA, little romance and steam.
19. THE DUKE DECEPTION by Laura Trentham - 3.5 STARS
I believe one of the shortest novella's in this anthology, but enjoyable. H/h from New York, and hide their identities at a masquerade ball in England.
She has loved the H forever, he barely knows she exists in NY, even though she sits behind him at Church. They make love outside of marriage - heat level 4 out of 5. He cleans her and doesn't notice she was a Virgin? He meets up with her again, and doesn't state how he figured out where she would be.
Little on romance, HEA, steam and ends abruptly. Yes I know it was short, but a few more pages about their future would have been nice. (ljb)
October 9, 2023
I’m a huge fan of anthologies for several reasons, finding new authors and series or revisiting characters from favorite authors that otherwise might not have received their HEA. I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie anthology did not disappoint. Several of my favorite authors were present - Annabelle Anders, Amy Rose Bennett, Tamara Gill, Caroline Lee, Carrie Lomax, Stacie Reid and Ellie St. Clair. Their novellas checked everything I like about novellas, stories that immediately grab your attention, hold your interest, require a fan or two and give you a great HEA.
Annabelle Anders’ Sweet Duke of Mine is Alastair and Daisy’s second chance story of childhood friends whose love story ended abruptly and painfully. It’s a favorite trope of mine and this novella didn’t disappoint. Alastair and Daisy reunite under dire circumstances for the duke. Old hurts get mended as they face a common enemy in this lovely story of reuniting Alastair and Daisy.
Amy Rose Bennett’s An Improper Duke all began with a list in Celia’s journal. A widow with a lustful crush on her stepson’s best friend. What happens when said gentleman is in residence for a house party and finds the list. It turns our the newly minted Duke has been harboring similar thoughts and dare I say harboring a tendre for Cecilia despite their age gap. A delightfully wicked tale of secret meetings and a surprising matchmaker. Amy Rose Bennett has done it again for me, given a lovely story with characters that were engaging and engaged me.
Tamara Gill’s My Virtuous Duke is a best friend to lover trope with Arthur and Deandra finally realizing what everyone else knew, these friends are destined to be more than friends. It starts with intimacy lessons when Arhtur decides to wed but needs some tutelage. As their lessons deepen so do long-lost or buried feelings. A great story recognizing what has always been in plain sight.
Caroline Lee’s Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at Her Duke is everything I love and expect from a Caroline Lee story. We met Amelia in her brother’s book, and we were introduced to her love of Kip, one of her brother’s best friends and animals. When last we saw Amelia, she was incubating birds, in this story we meet Becky in all her glory and Kip makes his appearance. Another homerun story for me as it is interjected with a fun, humorous love story with animals that almost steal the show.
Carrie Lomax’s The Duke She Defied is story about longing at least on the Duke of Ardennes’ part for Emma, who has been made his ward. He decides she needs to be married and Emma just wants to get her dowry released from Max. The story has it all, banter, as well as some angst. It was a great read and the author made sure the story kept my attention.
Ellie St. Clair’s The Duke’s Treasure is a prequel for her newest series and is how the treasure came to be in England that her current group of characters in the Reckless Rogue’s series. It was an adventure for Edward who didn’t want to settle down and be the Duke, he’d rather his brother Arthur take up the role. Mariana was a widow who he met while trying to search for treasure her late husband had taken. She wasn’t looking for love or a second marriage, but she hadn’t reckoned on meeting Edward. It was a great way to find out what the treasure was and to see Edward determine his adventures was really in search of someone to love, which Mariana fit the bill and for Mariana to discover that you can find love an happiness.
Clair Brett’s Her Reluctant Duke is about fixing past wrongs between the new Duke of Chatham, Whitcome and Deidra Lightowler. What’s not to love about pig races? Whitcome left a wronged misconception linger far too long to the end of his potential relationship with Deidra. Finally, he is ready to stand up and get the love of his life with a little help from a lively cast of characters. Great story and fun read with a dastardly villain.
S. Cinders’ Dukes Give Love a Bad Name is about a Duke stepping up to take care of his neglected wards and the chaperon/caretaker who accompanies them to his home. It is great story about stepping up to a long overdue responsibility, finding unexpected love as Nathan and Bea navigate this new living arrangement including a harridan of a grandmother. Love comes when least expected, romantic and those of adding new family members.
Alyssa Clarke’s Two Dares, a Duke, and a Runaway Bride is a story about a runaway bride who runs into a duke. Evie decided to elope with a Viscount who was only after a fortune and escapes to hideaway pretending to be a duke’s wife. Daniel, said duke protects her. It is a great forced proximity, one-bedroom story with a bit of a grumpy duke. Evie and Daniel are a fun story with a highlight of sharing stories in the dark.
Emmanuelle de Mauspassant’ s gave a new spin to a novella for me in The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Duke. I enjoyed Estela and Theo’s story. It was a fun adventure as they were both seeking out the same thing for different reasons. Estela was a widow several times over with no desire to remarry and Theo was dreading a dutiful marriage for duty. They couple is well-matched who just needed to know that forever together was within their grasp.
Beverley Oakley’s The Duke’s Artful Dilemma is about a talented artist who has been forced to hide her art behind her brother’s name, a brother who is not really great. Selina is at a house party to paint the Duke of Chauncy’s portrait although that is a subterfuge on his part. He is working to protect the crown and needs sketches of some attendees at a party. Selina and the Duke, Angus, have an instant attraction that based on circumstances seemed doomed. The author does a great job of bringing angst based on several misunderstandings, but also brings a lovely grovel and a delightful happily every after.
Ebony Oaten’s Duke Around and Find Out is a delightful story where Thomasina Burke and Lord Taunton entertain each other during the season with bold bets of daring. Thomasina is a wallflower who befriends Gerard, who is also the heir to a dukedom. As their friend grows, so do the bets. It was great to see the friendship develop into love. When Gerard becomes the Duke, there is the question of whether a Duke can marry a wallflower. I really enjoyed the journey, the banter and the bets. Great story.
Eva Pendle’s The Duke Experiment was banter filled, including delightful insults. Emma Hanover and Matthew, the Duke of Newton who is a grump and socially awkward share a lab. Matthew falls in love instantly albeit with an inauspicious start. Emma has lingering baggage and is trying to fulfill her academic dreams with very little room for error. The author did a great job of building their relationship with banter, respect and then friendship. I really enjoyed how she built the characters and did so over time till they achieved their happiness.
Sky Purington’s Her Daring Duke is about a widow, Lady Isabella Stanton who wants to dally with Joseph, the Duke of Leinster, who is his friend, and admittedly his love although he has long been promised to another due to his father’s arrangement. Isabella creates a series of challenges designed to have a suitor who wins spend a day with her. At the end the Duke wins the challenge and Isabella. It is a lovely story and I enjoyed the challenges and the characters withing this storied world.
Any Quinton’s How to Train Your Duke is about the Lady Arabella’s crush on her best friend’s brother, Hudson, the Duke of Westbury or Natty as she calls him. I enjoyed their banter and I really enjoyed the story being told in the first person from each of their perspectives. This is one of my favorite tropes and this story didn’t disappoint. The Duke also has been in love with Arabella and his sister helps provide him with courtship guidance. It was a fun story and I enjoyed the friendships and the humous courtship.
Stacie Reid’s A Duke of Her Own is Francie’s story from A Wedded by Scandal series.
Lily Reynard’s One Season with the Duke was about second chances and a pretend engagement. Dominic, the Duke of Warbury and Philippa Bowerchalke. Dominic and Pippa were childhood sweethearts whose relationship was destroyed by the Duke’s father. This story is about finding forgiveness, rekindling the embers of love that never were extinguished and finding the courage to be honest about the past. It was a lovely story, and the supporting cast of characters were intriguing.
Mariah Stone’s When a Duke Bought a Wife is about two people who deserve their HEA. Emma is married to a loathsome person who sells her to Sebastian in an archaic tradition to punish her. Sebastian has every intention of marrying Emma. Two mistrustful people deserving of love navigate through turmoil to discover that they could have a HEA in this angsty lovely story.
Laura Trentham’s The Duke Deception is about two people who come together pretending to be someone else although they did know each other. It is a great story as to how Prudence and James “the Duke”. Prudence has been in love with James from afar and wanted to experience being with him. Even while pretending they were free to be and express their inner selves and forge a new loving life together.
I received an ARC of the I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie anthology from the author and voluntarily read the book.
Annabelle Anders’ Sweet Duke of Mine is Alastair and Daisy’s second chance story of childhood friends whose love story ended abruptly and painfully. It’s a favorite trope of mine and this novella didn’t disappoint. Alastair and Daisy reunite under dire circumstances for the duke. Old hurts get mended as they face a common enemy in this lovely story of reuniting Alastair and Daisy.
Amy Rose Bennett’s An Improper Duke all began with a list in Celia’s journal. A widow with a lustful crush on her stepson’s best friend. What happens when said gentleman is in residence for a house party and finds the list. It turns our the newly minted Duke has been harboring similar thoughts and dare I say harboring a tendre for Cecilia despite their age gap. A delightfully wicked tale of secret meetings and a surprising matchmaker. Amy Rose Bennett has done it again for me, given a lovely story with characters that were engaging and engaged me.
Tamara Gill’s My Virtuous Duke is a best friend to lover trope with Arthur and Deandra finally realizing what everyone else knew, these friends are destined to be more than friends. It starts with intimacy lessons when Arhtur decides to wed but needs some tutelage. As their lessons deepen so do long-lost or buried feelings. A great story recognizing what has always been in plain sight.
Caroline Lee’s Oh. My. God, Becky, Look at Her Duke is everything I love and expect from a Caroline Lee story. We met Amelia in her brother’s book, and we were introduced to her love of Kip, one of her brother’s best friends and animals. When last we saw Amelia, she was incubating birds, in this story we meet Becky in all her glory and Kip makes his appearance. Another homerun story for me as it is interjected with a fun, humorous love story with animals that almost steal the show.
Carrie Lomax’s The Duke She Defied is story about longing at least on the Duke of Ardennes’ part for Emma, who has been made his ward. He decides she needs to be married and Emma just wants to get her dowry released from Max. The story has it all, banter, as well as some angst. It was a great read and the author made sure the story kept my attention.
Ellie St. Clair’s The Duke’s Treasure is a prequel for her newest series and is how the treasure came to be in England that her current group of characters in the Reckless Rogue’s series. It was an adventure for Edward who didn’t want to settle down and be the Duke, he’d rather his brother Arthur take up the role. Mariana was a widow who he met while trying to search for treasure her late husband had taken. She wasn’t looking for love or a second marriage, but she hadn’t reckoned on meeting Edward. It was a great way to find out what the treasure was and to see Edward determine his adventures was really in search of someone to love, which Mariana fit the bill and for Mariana to discover that you can find love an happiness.
Clair Brett’s Her Reluctant Duke is about fixing past wrongs between the new Duke of Chatham, Whitcome and Deidra Lightowler. What’s not to love about pig races? Whitcome left a wronged misconception linger far too long to the end of his potential relationship with Deidra. Finally, he is ready to stand up and get the love of his life with a little help from a lively cast of characters. Great story and fun read with a dastardly villain.
S. Cinders’ Dukes Give Love a Bad Name is about a Duke stepping up to take care of his neglected wards and the chaperon/caretaker who accompanies them to his home. It is great story about stepping up to a long overdue responsibility, finding unexpected love as Nathan and Bea navigate this new living arrangement including a harridan of a grandmother. Love comes when least expected, romantic and those of adding new family members.
Alyssa Clarke’s Two Dares, a Duke, and a Runaway Bride is a story about a runaway bride who runs into a duke. Evie decided to elope with a Viscount who was only after a fortune and escapes to hideaway pretending to be a duke’s wife. Daniel, said duke protects her. It is a great forced proximity, one-bedroom story with a bit of a grumpy duke. Evie and Daniel are a fun story with a highlight of sharing stories in the dark.
Emmanuelle de Mauspassant’ s gave a new spin to a novella for me in The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Duke. I enjoyed Estela and Theo’s story. It was a fun adventure as they were both seeking out the same thing for different reasons. Estela was a widow several times over with no desire to remarry and Theo was dreading a dutiful marriage for duty. They couple is well-matched who just needed to know that forever together was within their grasp.
Beverley Oakley’s The Duke’s Artful Dilemma is about a talented artist who has been forced to hide her art behind her brother’s name, a brother who is not really great. Selina is at a house party to paint the Duke of Chauncy’s portrait although that is a subterfuge on his part. He is working to protect the crown and needs sketches of some attendees at a party. Selina and the Duke, Angus, have an instant attraction that based on circumstances seemed doomed. The author does a great job of bringing angst based on several misunderstandings, but also brings a lovely grovel and a delightful happily every after.
Ebony Oaten’s Duke Around and Find Out is a delightful story where Thomasina Burke and Lord Taunton entertain each other during the season with bold bets of daring. Thomasina is a wallflower who befriends Gerard, who is also the heir to a dukedom. As their friend grows, so do the bets. It was great to see the friendship develop into love. When Gerard becomes the Duke, there is the question of whether a Duke can marry a wallflower. I really enjoyed the journey, the banter and the bets. Great story.
Eva Pendle’s The Duke Experiment was banter filled, including delightful insults. Emma Hanover and Matthew, the Duke of Newton who is a grump and socially awkward share a lab. Matthew falls in love instantly albeit with an inauspicious start. Emma has lingering baggage and is trying to fulfill her academic dreams with very little room for error. The author did a great job of building their relationship with banter, respect and then friendship. I really enjoyed how she built the characters and did so over time till they achieved their happiness.
Sky Purington’s Her Daring Duke is about a widow, Lady Isabella Stanton who wants to dally with Joseph, the Duke of Leinster, who is his friend, and admittedly his love although he has long been promised to another due to his father’s arrangement. Isabella creates a series of challenges designed to have a suitor who wins spend a day with her. At the end the Duke wins the challenge and Isabella. It is a lovely story and I enjoyed the challenges and the characters withing this storied world.
Any Quinton’s How to Train Your Duke is about the Lady Arabella’s crush on her best friend’s brother, Hudson, the Duke of Westbury or Natty as she calls him. I enjoyed their banter and I really enjoyed the story being told in the first person from each of their perspectives. This is one of my favorite tropes and this story didn’t disappoint. The Duke also has been in love with Arabella and his sister helps provide him with courtship guidance. It was a fun story and I enjoyed the friendships and the humous courtship.
Stacie Reid’s A Duke of Her Own is Francie’s story from A Wedded by Scandal series.
Lily Reynard’s One Season with the Duke was about second chances and a pretend engagement. Dominic, the Duke of Warbury and Philippa Bowerchalke. Dominic and Pippa were childhood sweethearts whose relationship was destroyed by the Duke’s father. This story is about finding forgiveness, rekindling the embers of love that never were extinguished and finding the courage to be honest about the past. It was a lovely story, and the supporting cast of characters were intriguing.
Mariah Stone’s When a Duke Bought a Wife is about two people who deserve their HEA. Emma is married to a loathsome person who sells her to Sebastian in an archaic tradition to punish her. Sebastian has every intention of marrying Emma. Two mistrustful people deserving of love navigate through turmoil to discover that they could have a HEA in this angsty lovely story.
Laura Trentham’s The Duke Deception is about two people who come together pretending to be someone else although they did know each other. It is a great story as to how Prudence and James “the Duke”. Prudence has been in love with James from afar and wanted to experience being with him. Even while pretending they were free to be and express their inner selves and forge a new loving life together.
I received an ARC of the I Like Big Dukes and I Cannot Lie anthology from the author and voluntarily read the book.
October 13, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed all the stories in this anthology. I wish some of them were longer. I highly recommend
September 13, 2023
From the delightfully debonair to the devilishly dangerous, every one of these dashing dukes can't help but command your attention. They're haughty, they’re naughty, and their estates are large enough to lose a spouse in. But beneath their stony aristocratic exteriors, beat hearts ready for passion... and the right touch of scandal. The I LIKE BIG DUKES AND I CANNOT LIE anthology is full of some of the best tropes; enemies and friends to lovers, marriages of convenience, and forced proximities. This collection features 19 Historical Romance novellas by some of the best and brightest Historical Romance authors of today. I don’t have room to review each novella in this post so I will just post a sampling:
An Improper Duke by Amy Rose Bennett, 5 stars: Celia Wyndham, the widowed Viscountess Ashdown has a secret, she has been harboring lustful thoughts about her step-son’s best friend Hugo Dehavilland, the Duke of Tremayne for years, but has never acted on it or even imagined that anything will come of it, especially since he is 8 years her junior, yet even that doesn’t stop her fantasies, fantasies she has been writing in her journal. When Hugo begins flirting with her, she is mortified to realize he has read her journal, and then shocked when he suggests they explore her fantasies. Hugo has wanted Celia for years and there is no way he is going to let her go once she agrees to be his… Very steamy, Age-Gap, Older Woman/Younger Man & HEA.
The Duke Experiment by Eve Pendle, 5 stars: Widow Emma Hanover has spent the last year working on her doctorate in botany at Banton University and sharing a lab with her nemesis, Doctor Matthew Calder, the Duke of Eastfield. The man has been a thorn in her side since the day they met and he destroyed her new gown. Matthew fell in love with Emma at first sight but hasn’t acted on it, for several reasons, the biggest being their age difference, he is almost 10 years her senior. But when he learns that she will be leaving the university, he knows he must make his move or lose her forever. Very Steamy, Age-Gap, Sunshine/Grumpy & HEA.
The Duke Deception by Laura Trentham, 3.5 stars: American James “Duke” Barnes is in England to find out what happened to his sister, Madeline, who was supposed to marry the Duke of Ralston’s heir, but ended up married to a well-known gambler and rake by the name of Damien Northcutt. Upon learning that they had fled to France, Duke decides to follow but will spend his last night in London at a masquerade in Vauxhall Gardens. It is there that he sees a lovely woman and adopting an English accent, engages with her, posing as the Duke of Barnes. Prudence Courtright can’t believe that Duke doesn’t recognize her! She has known him for years and has loved him for almost as long. Since she had no offers in America, she came to England to try and make a match but snuck out to indulge in a bit of fun before she has to settle for a loveless marriage. When she realizes Duke clearly doesn’t know who she is, she pretends to be a widow. When he suggests they get better acquainted, and invites her back to his rooms, she jumps at the chance. But will one night of passion be enough for them? Steamy, Mistaken Identity, Childhood Acquaintances & the possiblity of HEA.
Overall this is an excellent collection of novellas and should not be missed!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
An Improper Duke by Amy Rose Bennett, 5 stars: Celia Wyndham, the widowed Viscountess Ashdown has a secret, she has been harboring lustful thoughts about her step-son’s best friend Hugo Dehavilland, the Duke of Tremayne for years, but has never acted on it or even imagined that anything will come of it, especially since he is 8 years her junior, yet even that doesn’t stop her fantasies, fantasies she has been writing in her journal. When Hugo begins flirting with her, she is mortified to realize he has read her journal, and then shocked when he suggests they explore her fantasies. Hugo has wanted Celia for years and there is no way he is going to let her go once she agrees to be his… Very steamy, Age-Gap, Older Woman/Younger Man & HEA.
The Duke Experiment by Eve Pendle, 5 stars: Widow Emma Hanover has spent the last year working on her doctorate in botany at Banton University and sharing a lab with her nemesis, Doctor Matthew Calder, the Duke of Eastfield. The man has been a thorn in her side since the day they met and he destroyed her new gown. Matthew fell in love with Emma at first sight but hasn’t acted on it, for several reasons, the biggest being their age difference, he is almost 10 years her senior. But when he learns that she will be leaving the university, he knows he must make his move or lose her forever. Very Steamy, Age-Gap, Sunshine/Grumpy & HEA.
The Duke Deception by Laura Trentham, 3.5 stars: American James “Duke” Barnes is in England to find out what happened to his sister, Madeline, who was supposed to marry the Duke of Ralston’s heir, but ended up married to a well-known gambler and rake by the name of Damien Northcutt. Upon learning that they had fled to France, Duke decides to follow but will spend his last night in London at a masquerade in Vauxhall Gardens. It is there that he sees a lovely woman and adopting an English accent, engages with her, posing as the Duke of Barnes. Prudence Courtright can’t believe that Duke doesn’t recognize her! She has known him for years and has loved him for almost as long. Since she had no offers in America, she came to England to try and make a match but snuck out to indulge in a bit of fun before she has to settle for a loveless marriage. When she realizes Duke clearly doesn’t know who she is, she pretends to be a widow. When he suggests they get better acquainted, and invites her back to his rooms, she jumps at the chance. But will one night of passion be enough for them? Steamy, Mistaken Identity, Childhood Acquaintances & the possiblity of HEA.
Overall this is an excellent collection of novellas and should not be missed!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
September 13, 2023
This review is for The Duke Deception by Laura Trentham.
I think I’ve asked author Laura Trentham a couple of times already to do this; maybe if we all ask her nicely. I just want her to write a novella, a short story, a scene, or at least a couple of paragraphs every few days so we can get our fix. And not have to wait for the next heart-stopping, breathtaking, swoony, steamy, sexy – and laugh, laugh, laugh out loud trip back to Regency Land.
The Duke Deception is all those things and more, including a direct link to The Courtship Calculation, the first book in Trentham’s Laws of Attraction series, with a healthy dose of coincidence to boot. Perfect recipe for delightful, and delightful it is.
James “Duke” Barnes is in England to find his sister. Maddie was banished to England for her bad behavior (career aspirations?) to find a husband. One very suitable candidate (suitable in the eyes of her family, anyway) was found, but she ended up marrying someone else, a gambler and a rogue. As the eldest Barnes son James has responsibilities. One is to make sure his sister is all right. Another is to step up and join the family business, take over some day. Not how he'd like his future to look, but you know, responsibilities. As he’s preparing to follow his sister’s trail to Paris, someone he meets at his lodgings suggests they attend a local masquerade that night. Just one night, lots of beautiful masked women, no entanglements, the perfect way to spend his final evening in England. Remember, this is the Regency Period. Men rule, and more importantly, rules rule. Strict rules. Rules that don’t give women much freedom. No wonder there was so much intrigue and subterfuge. No wonder the idea of being masked, anonymous, unidentifiable is so appealing to both sexes. Otherwise nobody but the men would have any fun. And James “Duke” Barnes is all set for fun.
And off we go! James has been called Duke his whole life so he decides to go with it. After all, he’ll be gone in the morning. So he adopts an English accent and approaches a woman who appears to be an outsider like him. Tatania is enchanting, enthusiastic, pliable, eager. This is definitely his lucky night.
No spoilers, so I’ll let you read it for yourself and let the story unfold and the surprises – one after the other – pop up and delight you. The Duke Deception is smoldering and sweet and says a bit about women’s roles – and just what a smart, sassy woman can accomplish. Entertaining, wonderfully enjoyable. Highly recommend. I was given an advance copy of The Duke Deception by the author and I am so pleased. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
I think I’ve asked author Laura Trentham a couple of times already to do this; maybe if we all ask her nicely. I just want her to write a novella, a short story, a scene, or at least a couple of paragraphs every few days so we can get our fix. And not have to wait for the next heart-stopping, breathtaking, swoony, steamy, sexy – and laugh, laugh, laugh out loud trip back to Regency Land.
The Duke Deception is all those things and more, including a direct link to The Courtship Calculation, the first book in Trentham’s Laws of Attraction series, with a healthy dose of coincidence to boot. Perfect recipe for delightful, and delightful it is.
James “Duke” Barnes is in England to find his sister. Maddie was banished to England for her bad behavior (career aspirations?) to find a husband. One very suitable candidate (suitable in the eyes of her family, anyway) was found, but she ended up marrying someone else, a gambler and a rogue. As the eldest Barnes son James has responsibilities. One is to make sure his sister is all right. Another is to step up and join the family business, take over some day. Not how he'd like his future to look, but you know, responsibilities. As he’s preparing to follow his sister’s trail to Paris, someone he meets at his lodgings suggests they attend a local masquerade that night. Just one night, lots of beautiful masked women, no entanglements, the perfect way to spend his final evening in England. Remember, this is the Regency Period. Men rule, and more importantly, rules rule. Strict rules. Rules that don’t give women much freedom. No wonder there was so much intrigue and subterfuge. No wonder the idea of being masked, anonymous, unidentifiable is so appealing to both sexes. Otherwise nobody but the men would have any fun. And James “Duke” Barnes is all set for fun.
And off we go! James has been called Duke his whole life so he decides to go with it. After all, he’ll be gone in the morning. So he adopts an English accent and approaches a woman who appears to be an outsider like him. Tatania is enchanting, enthusiastic, pliable, eager. This is definitely his lucky night.
No spoilers, so I’ll let you read it for yourself and let the story unfold and the surprises – one after the other – pop up and delight you. The Duke Deception is smoldering and sweet and says a bit about women’s roles – and just what a smart, sassy woman can accomplish. Entertaining, wonderfully enjoyable. Highly recommend. I was given an advance copy of The Duke Deception by the author and I am so pleased. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
September 11, 2023
Overall, the authors in this collection are some of the best in this field so you will not be disappointed.
I was able to review two stories from this group and will update my review as more are read.
Duke Around and Find Out by Ebony Oaten--
Thomasina is set on being a spinster and wallflower, until she meets Gerard. There was just something about him that put her at ease and they both have a mischievous streak. Playfully teasing is one thing but when Gerard's intentions become real, Thomasina is confronted with hard truth. She is afraid of being married.
This story jumped around a bit and was a bit confusing to start. Suddenly there was a blue button to be found when no mention of this preceded it. But the wager was fun- he is going to try to make her blush, and boy did he!
Overall the storyline was good. It is a short novella and thus, you dont get much in the way of background or outlying stories, yet they are mentioned in brief so it leaves you hanging. This was especially evident when it is learnt that a lord has compromised Gerard's sister and is the same man who taunted Thomasina. How far? We don't know, it is never explained well, nor his involvement with the sister.
This sometimes read as if this was a longer story but it had been chopped down to fit novella length for this anthology.
In any case, it is a simple story, low drama, a little steam, could have been better in some areas, but it does fit in nicely with this collection. 4 stars
One Season with The Duke- Lily Reynard-------
When her childhood sweetheart runs out on her, Philippa resigns herself to being a spinster until he reappeared. Now she is torn from being hurt to what her heart remembers. Dominic is now Duke of Warbury and he wants nothing more than to reconnect with his love Philippa but will she forgive him for the past?
This was my first story from Lily Reynard and I must admit I was enthralled. It was a very solid storyline, the characters had depth, and the drama/suspense was well done throughout. Even being a novella, the reader still got a great story.
Highly recommend. 5 stars
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was able to review two stories from this group and will update my review as more are read.
Duke Around and Find Out by Ebony Oaten--
Thomasina is set on being a spinster and wallflower, until she meets Gerard. There was just something about him that put her at ease and they both have a mischievous streak. Playfully teasing is one thing but when Gerard's intentions become real, Thomasina is confronted with hard truth. She is afraid of being married.
This story jumped around a bit and was a bit confusing to start. Suddenly there was a blue button to be found when no mention of this preceded it. But the wager was fun- he is going to try to make her blush, and boy did he!
Overall the storyline was good. It is a short novella and thus, you dont get much in the way of background or outlying stories, yet they are mentioned in brief so it leaves you hanging. This was especially evident when it is learnt that a lord has compromised Gerard's sister and is the same man who taunted Thomasina. How far? We don't know, it is never explained well, nor his involvement with the sister.
This sometimes read as if this was a longer story but it had been chopped down to fit novella length for this anthology.
In any case, it is a simple story, low drama, a little steam, could have been better in some areas, but it does fit in nicely with this collection. 4 stars
One Season with The Duke- Lily Reynard-------
When her childhood sweetheart runs out on her, Philippa resigns herself to being a spinster until he reappeared. Now she is torn from being hurt to what her heart remembers. Dominic is now Duke of Warbury and he wants nothing more than to reconnect with his love Philippa but will she forgive him for the past?
This was my first story from Lily Reynard and I must admit I was enthralled. It was a very solid storyline, the characters had depth, and the drama/suspense was well done throughout. Even being a novella, the reader still got a great story.
Highly recommend. 5 stars
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2023
This anthology is simply gorgeous, packed with intriguing novellas by some of my most beloved authors!!!!
Here are the reviews for the ones I read:
Carrie Lomax
A big, arrogant Duke falls hard and falls first and has to work to prove his love!
My first read of this author and I loved it so much! It’s entertaining and fun, with refreshing writing, witty banter and steamy scenes. And I love the guardian ward trope! I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Amy Rose Bennett
This is a sweet story with a simple plot, but full of steam and with very lovable characters. I loved that the heroine is older, but shyer and he’s very confident and so in love!!! The writing is perfection as always. Bennett never disappoints!
Caroline Lee
This novella has all Lee’s customary humor, but is sweeter with a touch of angst. The heroine has always felt awkward and different, but her family has always accepted and loved her. And the hero has been in love with her since forever! This one is less steamy than usual, but perfectly crafted as always. And it’s linked to her latest gorgeous book, The Duke’s Daring Bride!
Annabelle Anders
An excellent story, with an intriguing plot and two people separated by station, but mostly by evil forces. Anders’ writing is always beautiful and evocative and her characters lovable, strong and vivid. Daisy is a force of nature, while Alaistair is kind and gentle, even if a bit gullible in my opinion. But maybe it’s because she is used to fight for everything in life, while he was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, so to speak. This novella is longer than usual, almost a full book in itself! Gorgeous.
Eve Pendle
Wonderful as always! Pendle’s novellas are miniature, complete books, trimmed to perfection, with the right dose of humor and a sprinkle of angst, hot scenes and adorable characters. How I love a stern duke with daddy vibes! And he falls first and hard! Emma is sweet and capable, a bundle of energy with a keen mind. I love that they are both scientists and they support each other since the beginning, even if when they bicker and quarrel over everything. A little gem!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Here are the reviews for the ones I read:
Carrie Lomax
A big, arrogant Duke falls hard and falls first and has to work to prove his love!
My first read of this author and I loved it so much! It’s entertaining and fun, with refreshing writing, witty banter and steamy scenes. And I love the guardian ward trope! I can’t wait to read more by this author.
Amy Rose Bennett
This is a sweet story with a simple plot, but full of steam and with very lovable characters. I loved that the heroine is older, but shyer and he’s very confident and so in love!!! The writing is perfection as always. Bennett never disappoints!
Caroline Lee
This novella has all Lee’s customary humor, but is sweeter with a touch of angst. The heroine has always felt awkward and different, but her family has always accepted and loved her. And the hero has been in love with her since forever! This one is less steamy than usual, but perfectly crafted as always. And it’s linked to her latest gorgeous book, The Duke’s Daring Bride!
Annabelle Anders
An excellent story, with an intriguing plot and two people separated by station, but mostly by evil forces. Anders’ writing is always beautiful and evocative and her characters lovable, strong and vivid. Daisy is a force of nature, while Alaistair is kind and gentle, even if a bit gullible in my opinion. But maybe it’s because she is used to fight for everything in life, while he was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, so to speak. This novella is longer than usual, almost a full book in itself! Gorgeous.
Eve Pendle
Wonderful as always! Pendle’s novellas are miniature, complete books, trimmed to perfection, with the right dose of humor and a sprinkle of angst, hot scenes and adorable characters. How I love a stern duke with daddy vibes! And he falls first and hard! Emma is sweet and capable, a bundle of energy with a keen mind. I love that they are both scientists and they support each other since the beginning, even if when they bicker and quarrel over everything. A little gem!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 5, 2023
Sweet Duke of Mine – Annabelle Anders
Hands raised - how many people heard Sweet Child of Mine when they read this title. Alright, now onto the book. This one has the old amnesia trope. I am not normally keen on that trope but in this story, it works so well. You know, because Annabelle wrote it. The re-learning of each other was like a whole new romance. I was furious at Alistair at first but as with all romances, it is easily explained and we get that HEA that we are looking for. This is a wonderfully romantic story.
My Virtuous Duke – Tamara Gill
Wow, a super cute story. This story encompasses the virginal duke trope and I have to tell you, it worked so well. Arthur and Dee Dee are so sweet and you can feel their attraction all thought their lessons. Tamara, as always delivers a fantastic story. I wanted more of their story but I get how short stories work.
The Duke Deception – Laura Trentham
Masquerades will get you every single time, just ask James and Prudence. I loved their secrecy that wasn’t always so secretive. Insta-love and old friends makes this story so amazingly cute. I wish it was a little longer but I know, I know. It’s a short story. It is part of Laura’s Laws of Attraction series which we already saw James’ sister get her HEA (go read that one to not miss out).
The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes – Emmanuelle de Maupassant
I have to be honest with you, at the beginning I totally disliked Estela and I found her unfeeling especially when she was mad that Rockley did not jump to her whims. Rockley was not what I would consider a hero but I know a lot of people will like him. By the 75% mark I began to like each of them and by the end I really liked the coming back together for their HEA. I hate that I did not like this short story more because I have really enjoyed Em’s stories in the past.
I received a complimentary copy.
Hands raised - how many people heard Sweet Child of Mine when they read this title. Alright, now onto the book. This one has the old amnesia trope. I am not normally keen on that trope but in this story, it works so well. You know, because Annabelle wrote it. The re-learning of each other was like a whole new romance. I was furious at Alistair at first but as with all romances, it is easily explained and we get that HEA that we are looking for. This is a wonderfully romantic story.
My Virtuous Duke – Tamara Gill
Wow, a super cute story. This story encompasses the virginal duke trope and I have to tell you, it worked so well. Arthur and Dee Dee are so sweet and you can feel their attraction all thought their lessons. Tamara, as always delivers a fantastic story. I wanted more of their story but I get how short stories work.
The Duke Deception – Laura Trentham
Masquerades will get you every single time, just ask James and Prudence. I loved their secrecy that wasn’t always so secretive. Insta-love and old friends makes this story so amazingly cute. I wish it was a little longer but I know, I know. It’s a short story. It is part of Laura’s Laws of Attraction series which we already saw James’ sister get her HEA (go read that one to not miss out).
The Lady’s Guide to Well-Endowed Dukes – Emmanuelle de Maupassant
I have to be honest with you, at the beginning I totally disliked Estela and I found her unfeeling especially when she was mad that Rockley did not jump to her whims. Rockley was not what I would consider a hero but I know a lot of people will like him. By the 75% mark I began to like each of them and by the end I really liked the coming back together for their HEA. I hate that I did not like this short story more because I have really enjoyed Em’s stories in the past.
I received a complimentary copy.
November 19, 2023
I really enjoyed this Book.
"Sweet Duke O'Mine"
By Annabelle Anders
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
An Improper Duke
By Amy Rose Bennett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her Reluctant Duke
By Clair Brett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
Duke's Give Love a Bad Name
By S Cinders
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Delightful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
Two Dares a Duke and a Runaway Bride
By Alyssa Clarke
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Delightful & Romantic Story
The Lady's Guide to Well Endowed Duke s
By Emmanuelle de Maupassant
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
My Virtuous Duke
By Tamara Gill
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Delightful & Romantic Story.
Oh My God, Becky Look at Her Duke
By Caroline Lee
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic.
The Duke She Defied
By Carrie Lomax
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
The Duke's Artful Dilemma
By Beverly Oakley
⭐️⭐️⭐️
It was an ok story. I am not sure what put me off on this one.
Duke Around and Find Out
By Ebony Oaten
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable, entertaining Story
The Duke Experiment
By Eve Pendle
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Absolutely Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
Her Daring Duke
By Sky Purington
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable & Entertaining Story.
How To Train Your Duke
By Amy Quinton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable Novella.
A Duke Of Her Own
By Stacy Reid
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
One Season With The Duke
By Lily Reynard
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable Story.
The Duke's Treasure
By Ellie St Claire
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic.
When The Duke Bought A Wife
By Mariah Stone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
The Duke Deception
By Laura Trentham
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Not sure how I feel about this Story.
"Sweet Duke O'Mine"
By Annabelle Anders
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
An Improper Duke
By Amy Rose Bennett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Her Reluctant Duke
By Clair Brett
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
Duke's Give Love a Bad Name
By S Cinders
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Delightful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
Two Dares a Duke and a Runaway Bride
By Alyssa Clarke
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Delightful & Romantic Story
The Lady's Guide to Well Endowed Duke s
By Emmanuelle de Maupassant
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
My Virtuous Duke
By Tamara Gill
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Delightful & Romantic Story.
Oh My God, Becky Look at Her Duke
By Caroline Lee
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic.
The Duke She Defied
By Carrie Lomax
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
The Duke's Artful Dilemma
By Beverly Oakley
⭐️⭐️⭐️
It was an ok story. I am not sure what put me off on this one.
Duke Around and Find Out
By Ebony Oaten
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable, entertaining Story
The Duke Experiment
By Eve Pendle
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Absolutely Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
Her Daring Duke
By Sky Purington
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable & Entertaining Story.
How To Train Your Duke
By Amy Quinton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable Novella.
A Duke Of Her Own
By Stacy Reid
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic Story.
One Season With The Duke
By Lily Reynard
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An Adorable Story.
The Duke's Treasure
By Ellie St Claire
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Absolutely Wonderful, Entertaining, Delightful & Romantic.
When The Duke Bought A Wife
By Mariah Stone
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Wonderful, Entertaining & Romantic Story.
The Duke Deception
By Laura Trentham
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Not sure how I feel about this Story.
August 31, 2023
I received the novella, An Improper Duke by Amy Rose Bennett as an ARC reader. I have read A LOT of historical romance especially in the time period of the ton; however I have avoided stories with widows for the most part. When I realized that the FMC was a widow at first I was sure I wasn’t going to like it, but Bennett won me over!
This book is certainly a novella, in that there is not a lot of character development because of the short length of the story. If the reader accepts it as the novella it is, the characters are extremely refreshing and sweet. I just LOVED that the FMC verbalized what she wanted sexually and wasn’t scandalized over every sexual innuendo or action. It was also wonderful to have an MMC not so serious and broody.
You will read sex scenes that are HOT. The steamy scenes were definitely my favorite part of the story. The descriptions are delicious and hit the spot. ;) This novella is much more on the erotica side verse the story side; descriptions are graphic and extremely plentiful. There is a blow job scene that was one of my favorite sex scenes I have ever read!
There is a plot but overall it really is about the sex. That’s not a dig mind you. It was nice to have a quick read, with all happy endings in every direction. It got a little too sweet and perfect, but again, I think this novella has to be considered for what it is when evaluating. You are getting a short story about great sex and a fun, delightful, steamy couple. It’s about reading something for joy and fun. I really enjoyed this little book and think most will too! Thank you, Ms. Bennett for introducing me to your work! I will most definitely be reading more.
This book is certainly a novella, in that there is not a lot of character development because of the short length of the story. If the reader accepts it as the novella it is, the characters are extremely refreshing and sweet. I just LOVED that the FMC verbalized what she wanted sexually and wasn’t scandalized over every sexual innuendo or action. It was also wonderful to have an MMC not so serious and broody.
You will read sex scenes that are HOT. The steamy scenes were definitely my favorite part of the story. The descriptions are delicious and hit the spot. ;) This novella is much more on the erotica side verse the story side; descriptions are graphic and extremely plentiful. There is a blow job scene that was one of my favorite sex scenes I have ever read!
There is a plot but overall it really is about the sex. That’s not a dig mind you. It was nice to have a quick read, with all happy endings in every direction. It got a little too sweet and perfect, but again, I think this novella has to be considered for what it is when evaluating. You are getting a short story about great sex and a fun, delightful, steamy couple. It’s about reading something for joy and fun. I really enjoyed this little book and think most will too! Thank you, Ms. Bennett for introducing me to your work! I will most definitely be reading more.
September 8, 2023
I have read books by several of these authors, so the Big Dukes anthology was a happy early purchase for me. I cannot wait for the entire book to come out so I can read the whole thing!
I so enjoyed Carrie Lomax’s class differences romance between Maximus Tremaine, 6th Duke of Ardennes and Emma, the illegitimate daughter of an earl’s second son. Max, as Emma’s guardian, and wants to find her a husband at the earliest opportunity before her small dowry and increasing age make it difficult to find a suitor. The poor girl, she’s only 21 but the way Max describes it, you would think she was an old hag.
Emma’s mother wanted nothing to do with her and her father shipped her off to boarding school as soon as he could. Little wonder she does not want to be a burden to others and will not be placed in a loveless marriage of convenience just to make it easy on Max. Can she irritate him enough that he will grant her “early freedom” and control of her inheritance? She can and will try her best!
Once Max realizes he is, and has been in love with Emma for years, he asks for 14 days to prove his love. How can he prove the man who was aghast that she simply wanted to work, would love her for who she is? Would he ever understand her need to feel useful?
It was great fun watching Emma and Max realize all the teasing and picking on each other in the past was because of their mutual attraction. This steamy story is well-written, full of great banter, and has a fantastic list of adventures that will have you laughing as Max and Emma learn more about each other. Thank you to Carrie Lomax for an Advanced Reader Copy. I voluntarily read the story and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I so enjoyed Carrie Lomax’s class differences romance between Maximus Tremaine, 6th Duke of Ardennes and Emma, the illegitimate daughter of an earl’s second son. Max, as Emma’s guardian, and wants to find her a husband at the earliest opportunity before her small dowry and increasing age make it difficult to find a suitor. The poor girl, she’s only 21 but the way Max describes it, you would think she was an old hag.
Emma’s mother wanted nothing to do with her and her father shipped her off to boarding school as soon as he could. Little wonder she does not want to be a burden to others and will not be placed in a loveless marriage of convenience just to make it easy on Max. Can she irritate him enough that he will grant her “early freedom” and control of her inheritance? She can and will try her best!
Once Max realizes he is, and has been in love with Emma for years, he asks for 14 days to prove his love. How can he prove the man who was aghast that she simply wanted to work, would love her for who she is? Would he ever understand her need to feel useful?
It was great fun watching Emma and Max realize all the teasing and picking on each other in the past was because of their mutual attraction. This steamy story is well-written, full of great banter, and has a fantastic list of adventures that will have you laughing as Max and Emma learn more about each other. Thank you to Carrie Lomax for an Advanced Reader Copy. I voluntarily read the story and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 9, 2023
Review for the Duke Experiment:
The Duke Experiment by Eve Pendle is a fantastic and fun standalone story set in Victorian England, in the latter half of the nineteenth century.
Matthew, the Duke of Eastfield, is a botanist working at an English university that has a focus on female academics. Emma Hanover is a widowed who has had to switch university to finish her doctorate and is sharing lab space with Matthew. The problem is they get off on the wrong foot, which is both funny and based in truth. Over the next year, while Emma is busing trading barbs and certain that she hates her colleague, Matthew has fallen in love with the woman.
When disaster strikes, risking Emma's research, Matthew comes up with a solution much to Emma's trepidation, in the face of their ongoing hostility. However, things change as the two are forced together in more intimate surroundings and they begin to discuss a new sort of arrangement, or experiment, that could open Emma's mind to more.
I really appreciated this book, I found it incredibly easy to connect to these characters. Mostly because this couple are both scientists. I'm a scientist, so I connect with the jargon and the stress and the workload while researching, especially for a doctorate. The fact that it is a historical romance, which I always love, was just the icing on the cake. This is set in a fantastic era when women, especially with money or appropriate connections, could begin to participate in science societies and academia.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The Duke Experiment by Eve Pendle is a fantastic and fun standalone story set in Victorian England, in the latter half of the nineteenth century.
Matthew, the Duke of Eastfield, is a botanist working at an English university that has a focus on female academics. Emma Hanover is a widowed who has had to switch university to finish her doctorate and is sharing lab space with Matthew. The problem is they get off on the wrong foot, which is both funny and based in truth. Over the next year, while Emma is busing trading barbs and certain that she hates her colleague, Matthew has fallen in love with the woman.
When disaster strikes, risking Emma's research, Matthew comes up with a solution much to Emma's trepidation, in the face of their ongoing hostility. However, things change as the two are forced together in more intimate surroundings and they begin to discuss a new sort of arrangement, or experiment, that could open Emma's mind to more.
I really appreciated this book, I found it incredibly easy to connect to these characters. Mostly because this couple are both scientists. I'm a scientist, so I connect with the jargon and the stress and the workload while researching, especially for a doctorate. The fact that it is a historical romance, which I always love, was just the icing on the cake. This is set in a fantastic era when women, especially with money or appropriate connections, could begin to participate in science societies and academia.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 14, 2023
The following are my thoughts as I read this book. Thomasina Burke...a wallflower, in her forth and final season, does not desire marriage. Gerard Tauton...younger brother of a duke, has spent last few seasons helping his brother, has decided to participate in the season to represent his family in society. The MCs have an instant comfort level upon first meeting that leads them to indulge in friendly wagers. The h has lost a wager with the H, and now must pay the cost. The H has discovered that the h means more to him than he initially believed. The H is no longer a lord, his brother -a duke- has died. The h is taking responsibility for a tragedy that she was not a party to at all. The h is having trouble seeing the H as the man she knew before his change in station. The H put himself in a true place of vulnerability but the h did not believe in his sincerity. I think the H is right about the h and her fear. The H did not give up and was determined to win the h’s heart, he even traveled to where she had ran away. Finally the h realized that the H was right all along and accepted his proposal of marriage. This is a short story that is a part of an anthology I Like Big Dukes And I Cannot Lie. There is no nemesis and the conflict is mostly between the MCs. Since there was a death in the story I had to research (a habit of my curious nature) about mourning periods and etiquette for the time period. Oh yes, there is most definitely steam.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 12, 2023
Oh My God Becky, Look at Her Duke by Caroline Lee was the quick and funny read I needed. I’ve been a big fan of Amelia’s since we were introduced to her. Her quirkiness really appeals to me, and she’s met her match in Kipling.
Kipling takes loyalty and friendship to the next level. I can’t imagine leaving my home because of what he thinks is a forbidden attraction. He and “Wee Mellie” are such an adorable couple. I truly hope we see more of them in future books!
I received an ARC from the author. The opinions expressed here are mine.
Sweet Duke of Mine by Annabelle Anders is a bittersweet love story. Second chance romances are usually a bit bittersweet in my opinion. All that wasted time…
Alastair and Daisy’s story starts off when they are both young people in love for the first time. Tragedy strikes both their families and is exacerbated by Alistair’s uncle. Daisy’s innate goodness shows when she risks it all to help a man who was assaulted by police.
Gilbert is a hidden gem. Ms. Anders has a talent for writing children as supporting characters. I’d love to see Gilbert get his own happily ever after somewhere down the line. I also enjoyed how she wove John Locke’s philosophy into the story and demonstrated it through her characters’ behavior.
Engaging stories like this one are the reason that Ms. Anders is one of my one-click authors! I received an ARC from the author. The opinions expressed here are mine.
Kipling takes loyalty and friendship to the next level. I can’t imagine leaving my home because of what he thinks is a forbidden attraction. He and “Wee Mellie” are such an adorable couple. I truly hope we see more of them in future books!
I received an ARC from the author. The opinions expressed here are mine.
Sweet Duke of Mine by Annabelle Anders is a bittersweet love story. Second chance romances are usually a bit bittersweet in my opinion. All that wasted time…
Alastair and Daisy’s story starts off when they are both young people in love for the first time. Tragedy strikes both their families and is exacerbated by Alistair’s uncle. Daisy’s innate goodness shows when she risks it all to help a man who was assaulted by police.
Gilbert is a hidden gem. Ms. Anders has a talent for writing children as supporting characters. I’d love to see Gilbert get his own happily ever after somewhere down the line. I also enjoyed how she wove John Locke’s philosophy into the story and demonstrated it through her characters’ behavior.
Engaging stories like this one are the reason that Ms. Anders is one of my one-click authors! I received an ARC from the author. The opinions expressed here are mine.
September 17, 2023
Reviewing for five authors.
My Virtuous Duke Tamara Gill
This is a fun and enjoyable story about two lifelong friends that find more after a tutoring session. I really enjoyed this story. Arthur and Dee Dee are wonderful characters. The story is well written.
Oh. My. God, Becky, Look At Her Duke Caroline Lee
Part of the Surprise! Dukes series that I have been waiting for since the last book. Typical Caroline Lee shenanigans. This is a best friend’s sister story. I am so happy Amelia got her man. Also, happy to know what was in the eggs she was hatching in her bosoms.
A Duke Of Her Own Stacy Reid
A Wedded By Scandal novella. This is a ‘that’s not really my name’ story. Well written and a great HEA for Lady Francie. Loved the way the elusive Duke showed up at the ball in the ending.
The Duke’s Treasure Ellie St. Clair
This is the prequel to the Reckless Rogues series. The story explains what everyone is looking for in the series and now I can’t wait to read the next book. Not a big fan of insta-love but it is a well written story.
When The Duke Bought A Wife Mariah Stone
A story set in the world of the Dukes and Secrets series. I love Mariah Stone’s work but didn’t see how this crazy storyline was going to work out for the couple. It is all pulled together nicely in this well written story. Loved Sebastian and Emma and hope to see them in the upcoming books.
My Virtuous Duke Tamara Gill
This is a fun and enjoyable story about two lifelong friends that find more after a tutoring session. I really enjoyed this story. Arthur and Dee Dee are wonderful characters. The story is well written.
Oh. My. God, Becky, Look At Her Duke Caroline Lee
Part of the Surprise! Dukes series that I have been waiting for since the last book. Typical Caroline Lee shenanigans. This is a best friend’s sister story. I am so happy Amelia got her man. Also, happy to know what was in the eggs she was hatching in her bosoms.
A Duke Of Her Own Stacy Reid
A Wedded By Scandal novella. This is a ‘that’s not really my name’ story. Well written and a great HEA for Lady Francie. Loved the way the elusive Duke showed up at the ball in the ending.
The Duke’s Treasure Ellie St. Clair
This is the prequel to the Reckless Rogues series. The story explains what everyone is looking for in the series and now I can’t wait to read the next book. Not a big fan of insta-love but it is a well written story.
When The Duke Bought A Wife Mariah Stone
A story set in the world of the Dukes and Secrets series. I love Mariah Stone’s work but didn’t see how this crazy storyline was going to work out for the couple. It is all pulled together nicely in this well written story. Loved Sebastian and Emma and hope to see them in the upcoming books.
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