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The Games Dukes Play #1
The Duke and His Spinster
“She was a true spitfire, in every sense of the word. How fortunate that His Grace liked to play with fire..”
The only way Amy can remain a spinster is to abide by her father’s accept all offers this Season. If she only manages to push all suitors away without him realizing, she will finally be free. And she holds many tricks up her sleeve…
Duke Evan takes great pride in having never been rejected by a woman. But he must prove he is not like his cruel father, and he doesn’t see women as he must spend at least two weeks with a lady, without even touching her. And a feisty spinster like Amy is the perfect candidate…
Amy has the perfect recipe to make any gentleman run away become overly-attached, embarrass him in front of his friends, name all your future children the second time you see him… But Evan never backs down from a challenge. Until a stolen kiss changes everything…
*If you like a realistic yet steamy depiction of the Regency and Victorian era, then The Duke and His Spinster is the novel for you.
An enchanting regency romance of 60,000 words (around 300 pages), written by Sally Vixen and published by Cobalt Fairy.
No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.
Get "The Duke and His Spinster" today to discover Sally's splendid new story!
The only way Amy can remain a spinster is to abide by her father’s accept all offers this Season. If she only manages to push all suitors away without him realizing, she will finally be free. And she holds many tricks up her sleeve…
Duke Evan takes great pride in having never been rejected by a woman. But he must prove he is not like his cruel father, and he doesn’t see women as he must spend at least two weeks with a lady, without even touching her. And a feisty spinster like Amy is the perfect candidate…
Amy has the perfect recipe to make any gentleman run away become overly-attached, embarrass him in front of his friends, name all your future children the second time you see him… But Evan never backs down from a challenge. Until a stolen kiss changes everything…
*If you like a realistic yet steamy depiction of the Regency and Victorian era, then The Duke and His Spinster is the novel for you.
An enchanting regency romance of 60,000 words (around 300 pages), written by Sally Vixen and published by Cobalt Fairy.
No cheating, no cliffhangers, and a strong happily ever after.
Get "The Duke and His Spinster" today to discover Sally's splendid new story!
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2023
203 people are currently reading
69 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
March 17, 2023
Something off for me
I enjoyed the storyline very much, but the writing didn't flow for me for some reason. I wish I knew what it was. But I don't. I love this type of story and I appreciated the heroines antics as she tried to drive him away. It was very cute. And I liked that we knew the heroes thoughts about her too. His friend Charles was a buffoon. I hated his personality. But all in all it was a good book. I will try this author again. Safe and free in KU.
I enjoyed the storyline very much, but the writing didn't flow for me for some reason. I wish I knew what it was. But I don't. I love this type of story and I appreciated the heroines antics as she tried to drive him away. It was very cute. And I liked that we knew the heroes thoughts about her too. His friend Charles was a buffoon. I hated his personality. But all in all it was a good book. I will try this author again. Safe and free in KU.
February 26, 2023
what is in a name
There are so many interesting names that it disappoints when an author uses two first names for characters. Here we have Amy Clarke, Matthew Clarke, Andrew Clarence, etc. Speaking of Andrew, there is another unrelated character named “Drew”. Amy isn’t even a diminutive nickname for a more formal name. Multiple characters have French names, which is an odd choice for English aristocracy.
There are so many interesting names that it disappoints when an author uses two first names for characters. Here we have Amy Clarke, Matthew Clarke, Andrew Clarence, etc. Speaking of Andrew, there is another unrelated character named “Drew”. Amy isn’t even a diminutive nickname for a more formal name. Multiple characters have French names, which is an odd choice for English aristocracy.
February 7, 2023
This story will certainly having you turn page after page to see what happens next. It all starts out with a challenge and ends in love. Evan Hatcher, the seventh Duke of Leonbridge, is one of the most eligible, sought after bachlors in London. When his two friends issue a challenge to spend two weeks with one of the ladies who will shortly be labeled a spinster due to her lack of suitors, he accepts. Lady Amy Clarke wishes to be a spinster. After several seasons and a cancelled engagement, Amy is just rude to any gentleman who tries to even dance with her. Her father has told her if she will consider any man who approaches her this Season and nothing comes from it, she can become a spinster and redraw to live her life the way she wants. After a more detailed discussion with her father, Amy agrees. Little do Evan and Amy have any idea what a request for a dance will lead to. This book has some emotions to it that hopefully you can relate to. The characters are wonderfully described and the story line will keep you guessing almost to the end. Beware there are some very "steamy" parts in this story. It does have a very HEA extended epilogue that I feel sure you will enjoy!
June 11, 2023
Young aristocrats acting like schoolboys and young ladies defying the expectations of the ton make up this delightful story. It is funny and witty but with an underlying seriousness of how young ladies were treated that adds a darker level.
The arrogant Marquess of Repington (now where did that title pop again in another book as the Duke of Repington?!) almost ruins our H&H's budding relationship with his horrible attitude.
I find a lot of Regency books portray the hero as a sleep-around rake, yet somehow still the most eligible bachelor in the ton. This is not factual. Even the Prince Regent (where Regency comes from) was frowned upon for his lavish, partying lifestyle of orgies and bad behaviour, so these young men would not be easily forgiven for their rakish ways. Men were forgiven for having some experience, but no decent father would marry his daughter to a reprobate. In fact, the Prince Regent was hated for his wasteful ways and, as King, despised. Certainly not respected, at least behind his back.
I liked the characters in this story and gave them 4 stars for being endearing.
The arrogant Marquess of Repington (now where did that title pop again in another book as the Duke of Repington?!) almost ruins our H&H's budding relationship with his horrible attitude.
I find a lot of Regency books portray the hero as a sleep-around rake, yet somehow still the most eligible bachelor in the ton. This is not factual. Even the Prince Regent (where Regency comes from) was frowned upon for his lavish, partying lifestyle of orgies and bad behaviour, so these young men would not be easily forgiven for their rakish ways. Men were forgiven for having some experience, but no decent father would marry his daughter to a reprobate. In fact, the Prince Regent was hated for his wasteful ways and, as King, despised. Certainly not respected, at least behind his back.
I liked the characters in this story and gave them 4 stars for being endearing.
February 6, 2023
A Lovely Story
I really enjoyed this story. It is well written. It tells of the relationship and Duke Evan and Lady Amy. Evan's friends make a bet that he could charm a lady for two weeks without actually touching her. Amy wants to be a spinster but her father sets her a challenge not to reject any suitor this year. If she can do that, he will agree to her remaining a spinster. Evan decides to make Amy the lady of his interest but Amy does her best to reject him and make him dislike her. However, she does not manage to deter him and he is determined to last two weeks. Their relationship is difficult and Amy's attitude changes each day until she realises that Evan is not a callous man who would treat a woman badly. She begins to act normally and they both realise that strong feelings are developing for each other. I like the way the various characters show their emotions and how that impacts on the story. The story proves that love can develop when it is least expected.
I really enjoyed this story. It is well written. It tells of the relationship and Duke Evan and Lady Amy. Evan's friends make a bet that he could charm a lady for two weeks without actually touching her. Amy wants to be a spinster but her father sets her a challenge not to reject any suitor this year. If she can do that, he will agree to her remaining a spinster. Evan decides to make Amy the lady of his interest but Amy does her best to reject him and make him dislike her. However, she does not manage to deter him and he is determined to last two weeks. Their relationship is difficult and Amy's attitude changes each day until she realises that Evan is not a callous man who would treat a woman badly. She begins to act normally and they both realise that strong feelings are developing for each other. I like the way the various characters show their emotions and how that impacts on the story. The story proves that love can develop when it is least expected.
February 19, 2023
TWO PEOPLE WITH VERY DIFFERENT VIEWS ON RELATIONSHIPS
LADY AMY - outcast by the ton due to her being left by her betrothed an became very independent/outspoken with her views against men, and has no intention of ever marrying.
Her father had agreed it she does not find a suitor this season he will allow her the life she craves.
DUKE EVAN - Respected by everyone, all the mothers wanted him for their daughters, he respected women and believed they be allowed their opinions. Evan loved his mother very much his father however was different, he has vowed never to marry determined never to be like his father.
He and his two best friends attend the ball they issue him with a challenge to date a young lady for a set period and they pick the young lady.
WELL I LOVED THIS IT MADE ME SMILE - THE INTERACTION BETWEEN THESE CHARACTERS IS BRILLIANT.
GREST READ.
LADY AMY - outcast by the ton due to her being left by her betrothed an became very independent/outspoken with her views against men, and has no intention of ever marrying.
Her father had agreed it she does not find a suitor this season he will allow her the life she craves.
DUKE EVAN - Respected by everyone, all the mothers wanted him for their daughters, he respected women and believed they be allowed their opinions. Evan loved his mother very much his father however was different, he has vowed never to marry determined never to be like his father.
He and his two best friends attend the ball they issue him with a challenge to date a young lady for a set period and they pick the young lady.
WELL I LOVED THIS IT MADE ME SMILE - THE INTERACTION BETWEEN THESE CHARACTERS IS BRILLIANT.
GREST READ.
May 11, 2023
Really enjoyed this book. Very well written, plot was great, and I really liked the characters.
Amy's father and aunt were very supportive, funny, and had the best of intentions in their plans for Amy.
Amy is a strong woman to the point of being stubborn and deemed cold by the ton. She has her reasons and it takes the Duke to turn her life's plans upside down before she comes out of her shell.
The Duke, he see's Amy differently than others, he see's her for more. She is so different from other ladies that his plans change all because of her.
Very lovely story of 2 people that have their own past issues to overcome, to allow others in, learning to trust, and finding love when they weren't looking.
I received an ARC from the auther for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
Amy's father and aunt were very supportive, funny, and had the best of intentions in their plans for Amy.
Amy is a strong woman to the point of being stubborn and deemed cold by the ton. She has her reasons and it takes the Duke to turn her life's plans upside down before she comes out of her shell.
The Duke, he see's Amy differently than others, he see's her for more. She is so different from other ladies that his plans change all because of her.
Very lovely story of 2 people that have their own past issues to overcome, to allow others in, learning to trust, and finding love when they weren't looking.
I received an ARC from the auther for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own
February 11, 2023
Determined to never marry
Following a failed engagement and the death of her mother, Amy wishes nothing more than to be a spinster and retire away from London. To that end, she has made herself as undesirable as possible, becoming a woman no suitor will approach. Evan, pursuing a life of pleasure and rejecting women beyond brief sexual encounters, is fearful of relationships and terrified he will become like his father in ill treating a wife. He is challenged by his best friend to win Amy's affections in two weeks, the friend thus hoping to wake him from his increasingly had behaviour and convinced he cannot crack the crazy determined spinster shell. The twists and turns towards a happy denouement make an entertainingly charming story.
Following a failed engagement and the death of her mother, Amy wishes nothing more than to be a spinster and retire away from London. To that end, she has made herself as undesirable as possible, becoming a woman no suitor will approach. Evan, pursuing a life of pleasure and rejecting women beyond brief sexual encounters, is fearful of relationships and terrified he will become like his father in ill treating a wife. He is challenged by his best friend to win Amy's affections in two weeks, the friend thus hoping to wake him from his increasingly had behaviour and convinced he cannot crack the crazy determined spinster shell. The twists and turns towards a happy denouement make an entertainingly charming story.
February 7, 2023
WOW
Now this is the type of story you want to read, where it’s hard to put the book down until you complete it. That’s the way it was for me. The characters just jump of the pages at you to make you read the next chapter even though you told yourself you were going to give it a rest after the chapter you’re reading. Also another book about want to two individuals who don’t plan to marry as society dictates, but are given a dare/challenge that once the individuals get to know each other have them changing their minds. Leaving them with struggles to over come to reach their happily ever after.
Now this is the type of story you want to read, where it’s hard to put the book down until you complete it. That’s the way it was for me. The characters just jump of the pages at you to make you read the next chapter even though you told yourself you were going to give it a rest after the chapter you’re reading. Also another book about want to two individuals who don’t plan to marry as society dictates, but are given a dare/challenge that once the individuals get to know each other have them changing their minds. Leaving them with struggles to over come to reach their happily ever after.
February 21, 2023
I don't have the time or inclination to write a super long review, but this just read so superficial to me. I got to about 50% and then started skimming and skipping, but the prose and the characterization just felt cold and dull. Evan and his group of friends came off like 17yo boys rather than people who held any sort of responsibility and Esther and Amy felt one dimensional and overly dramatic a lot of the time. There were also a few editing errors I noticed (though not many), but they were enough/obvious enough to overcome my brain's autocorrect, so make of that what you will. Anyway, this book simply wasn't for me, but ymmv.
February 6, 2023
Excellent
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, it has an interesting storyline and is well written IMHO. I am not one for lengthy reviews and just like to say how a book has effected me, this book made me laugh at times and at others it brought a tear to my eye. There was some very minor angst but that made me slightly angry rather than anxious or distressed.
I was lucky to be notified that this book was available for a short time free on Amazon as an ARC. My opinions though are my own and I can truthfully say I enjoyed reading this novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel, it has an interesting storyline and is well written IMHO. I am not one for lengthy reviews and just like to say how a book has effected me, this book made me laugh at times and at others it brought a tear to my eye. There was some very minor angst but that made me slightly angry rather than anxious or distressed.
I was lucky to be notified that this book was available for a short time free on Amazon as an ARC. My opinions though are my own and I can truthfully say I enjoyed reading this novel.
February 11, 2023
Two Challenges__Two Healed Hearts
All in all, The Duke and His Spinster by Sally Vixen was an entertaining standalone read with both hilarious and tense moments. Even with a predictable plot, this character-driven tale had the personalities to give this tale charming quality.
I was disappointed that the pace was slowed by redundant thoughts and introspection. Still, I enjoyed Evan and Amy's HEA, including the sweet epilogues. (yes, there is an extended epilogue) .
Content 411: In addition to moderate swearing, the book also features descriptive sex scenes.
All in all, The Duke and His Spinster by Sally Vixen was an entertaining standalone read with both hilarious and tense moments. Even with a predictable plot, this character-driven tale had the personalities to give this tale charming quality.
I was disappointed that the pace was slowed by redundant thoughts and introspection. Still, I enjoyed Evan and Amy's HEA, including the sweet epilogues. (yes, there is an extended epilogue) .
Content 411: In addition to moderate swearing, the book also features descriptive sex scenes.
February 11, 2023
Evan and Amy
Wonderful book by this aurhir.The characters keep you turning the pages until they get they get their HEA. The story starts off with bets o n both sides. One from Evans friends and request Amy made with her father about accepting suitors for the season,as her father only wanted her happiness all else before she chooses being a spinister. Little dies she know that age has met her match in Evan. they come to heal each others hearts and WILK have a life time of live and happiness. Would highly recommend. happy reading!😊
Wonderful book by this aurhir.The characters keep you turning the pages until they get they get their HEA. The story starts off with bets o n both sides. One from Evans friends and request Amy made with her father about accepting suitors for the season,as her father only wanted her happiness all else before she chooses being a spinister. Little dies she know that age has met her match in Evan. they come to heal each others hearts and WILK have a life time of live and happiness. Would highly recommend. happy reading!😊
September 27, 2023
Eligible bachelors often made wagers among themselves. Some were even placed in a book at White’s club for gentlemen. This was more informal. The Duke that was a known rake was to court a sharp tongued Lady who was scorned by the ton. He could not seduce her and had to woo her for two weeks.
Unknown to him, she had a deal with her father. If she didn’t reject suitors for the season and still didn’t find a match. She could become a spinster. That was her dream after being convinced she had no emotions.
What could go wrong?
Unknown to him, she had a deal with her father. If she didn’t reject suitors for the season and still didn’t find a match. She could become a spinster. That was her dream after being convinced she had no emotions.
What could go wrong?
February 10, 2023
What will be her reality?
She does not want to marry but she has a deal with her father to accept all offers but she is going to do whatever she can not to get offers. When I read that in the blurb I was interested in reading this one but then I found out about a wager oh my I knew that this was one story I would enjoy. This was such an engaging book that got me completely loss in its pages. The characters were excellent, the story well written, and one I gladly recommend.
She does not want to marry but she has a deal with her father to accept all offers but she is going to do whatever she can not to get offers. When I read that in the blurb I was interested in reading this one but then I found out about a wager oh my I knew that this was one story I would enjoy. This was such an engaging book that got me completely loss in its pages. The characters were excellent, the story well written, and one I gladly recommend.
April 21, 2023
A steamy story. I enjoyed the story line and I liked Amy’s character and enjoyed the way she behaved even if it was probably childish. She and the Duke’s interaction they have initially for different reasons is entertaining. I think it was obvious what would happen but that did not detract too much. I would maybe have liked to see others from society interact with Amy as the Duke courted her, and their jealousy came to the fore - her responses would have been enjoyable I think.
February 9, 2023
Amazing
She wants to remain a spinster. He's only interested in women to satisfy his physical needs. Two matched bets and neither of them wants to lose. But will the outcome really be a loss?
I really enjoyed this story! I couldn't stop reading. I liked the way they teased each other!
Thanks for this story and I'm looking forward to the next story!
She wants to remain a spinster. He's only interested in women to satisfy his physical needs. Two matched bets and neither of them wants to lose. But will the outcome really be a loss?
I really enjoyed this story! I couldn't stop reading. I liked the way they teased each other!
Thanks for this story and I'm looking forward to the next story!
February 22, 2023
Absolutely beautiful love journey
The characters in the story are absolutely interesting and entertaining as well as the story line. I absolutely loved and enjoyed reading this amazing book. The story is full witty and hilarious events throughout. I totally enjoyed and definitely recommend it. Excellent writing!
The characters in the story are absolutely interesting and entertaining as well as the story line. I absolutely loved and enjoyed reading this amazing book. The story is full witty and hilarious events throughout. I totally enjoyed and definitely recommend it. Excellent writing!
February 7, 2023
Truly a hot and steamy romance
Amy and Evan each have reasons why they do not wish to marry but when due to a promise to her father and a bet he makes with a friend they spend time together they soon full in love as usual Sally characters are full of charm and wit.
Amy and Evan each have reasons why they do not wish to marry but when due to a promise to her father and a bet he makes with a friend they spend time together they soon full in love as usual Sally characters are full of charm and wit.
February 7, 2023
OMG This Book Is So Good!!!
This really is a fantastic book. Amy is quite likable,even for a rather obnoxious woman. Her best friend is also lovely. The romance is funny and interesting. It’s not too naughty but is spicy.
This really is a fantastic book. Amy is quite likable,even for a rather obnoxious woman. Her best friend is also lovely. The romance is funny and interesting. It’s not too naughty but is spicy.
February 7, 2023
Strong heroine
I like a book with a strong heroine. This was an easy and enjoyable read. Somewhat different as both the H and h were against marriage.
I would recommend this book for an easy, fairly quick read.
I like a book with a strong heroine. This was an easy and enjoyable read. Somewhat different as both the H and h were against marriage.
I would recommend this book for an easy, fairly quick read.
February 18, 2023
Bonny
Evan, Duke of Leonbridge is a rake without plans to marry. Amy is a woman who would rather be a spinster than be controlled by a man. A wager brings them together but can they really fall in love? Find out more.....
Evan, Duke of Leonbridge is a rake without plans to marry. Amy is a woman who would rather be a spinster than be controlled by a man. A wager brings them together but can they really fall in love? Find out more.....
February 7, 2023
If you liked 10 Things I Hate About You, then you'll love those book. Same concept, only 14 days and set in Regency England. Lovely read.
February 15, 2023
The Duke and his Spinister
It was very interesting book that kept my interest. I liked how the two characters played mind games with each other, but found love for each other.
It was very interesting book that kept my interest. I liked how the two characters played mind games with each other, but found love for each other.
February 22, 2023
Fascinating
The Duke really was a jerk. Entering into a wager and never telling her. I wonder what her family thought of that.
The Duke really was a jerk. Entering into a wager and never telling her. I wonder what her family thought of that.
March 3, 2023
Enjoyed reading was well written book
March 7, 2023
Deliciously delightful
Amy and Evan, think that they are smarter than each other. It was a great story, with passion, fun, bets, and love.
Amy and Evan, think that they are smarter than each other. It was a great story, with passion, fun, bets, and love.
August 8, 2023
The Duke and his Spinster
This story was great. Very well written and very interesting story line. The banter between Evan and Amy was great made for a very entertaining story.
This story was great. Very well written and very interesting story line. The banter between Evan and Amy was great made for a very entertaining story.
January 9, 2024
Enjoyable
I have enjoyed this author's novels! Readers of Regency romance will like this delightful story. Evan and Amy fell in love.
I have enjoyed this author's novels! Readers of Regency romance will like this delightful story. Evan and Amy fell in love.
December 23, 2024
This was really 3.5 stars. The motto is you have to give a relationship time to develop. No love at first sight and no bailing too soon.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews