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The Dainty Devils #1
The Duchess Games
Sometimes you have to break the rules to find your happily ever after.
The stern and proper Callum Winter, Duke of Montford, must marry. At least according to his mother.
Enter: The Duchess Games where ladies are invited to display their accomplishments in dancing, music and all social graces.
Caitriona Lovelace just wants to steal the duke’s signet ring to get her smuggling operation running and save the village from ruin. Options are scarce for a thirty-one-year-old spinster, her two younger siblings, four dogs, a cranky goat, and a one-eyed fox.
She might not have any pretty accomplishments, but she can sing sea shanties and debone a haddock in minutes. But between pianofortes and watercolors, Caitriona is shocked to discover that Callum remembers her from that passionate summer long ago and she has never forgotten him.
Cat might not be duchess material---but she’s the perfect woman to save Callum…and their happily ever after.
The only problem is that she has to betray him first.
The stern and proper Callum Winter, Duke of Montford, must marry. At least according to his mother.
Enter: The Duchess Games where ladies are invited to display their accomplishments in dancing, music and all social graces.
Caitriona Lovelace just wants to steal the duke’s signet ring to get her smuggling operation running and save the village from ruin. Options are scarce for a thirty-one-year-old spinster, her two younger siblings, four dogs, a cranky goat, and a one-eyed fox.
She might not have any pretty accomplishments, but she can sing sea shanties and debone a haddock in minutes. But between pianofortes and watercolors, Caitriona is shocked to discover that Callum remembers her from that passionate summer long ago and she has never forgotten him.
Cat might not be duchess material---but she’s the perfect woman to save Callum…and their happily ever after.
The only problem is that she has to betray him first.
238 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 30, 2023
86 people are currently reading
131 people want to read
About the author
Alyxandra Harvey
60 books3,158 followerswww.alyxandraharvey.com
Alyxandra Harvey is the author of The Cinderella Society, The Dainty Devils, The Drake Chronicles, The Witches of London, Haunting Violet and more!
She likes chai lattes, tattoos, and books.
Sometimes fueled by literary rage.
Alyxandra Harvey is the author of The Cinderella Society, The Dainty Devils, The Drake Chronicles, The Witches of London, Haunting Violet and more!
She likes chai lattes, tattoos, and books.
Sometimes fueled by literary rage.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 12, 2023
A different plot with a reluctant Duke, fisherman’s daughter, smugglers, revenue men and heaps of animals.
I felt this was somewhat bland compared to the next in the series.
I felt this was somewhat bland compared to the next in the series.
June 30, 2023
The stern and proper Callum Winter, Duke of Tremaine, must marry. At least according to his mother.
Enter: The Duchess Games where ladies are invited to display their accomplishments in dancing, music and all social graces. Caitriona Sparrow just wants to steal the duke’s signet ring to get her smuggling operation running and save the village from ruin. Options are scarce for a thirty-one-year-old spinster, her two younger siblings, four dogs, a cranky goat, and a one-eyed fox. She might not have any pretty accomplishments, but she can sing sea shanties and debone a haddock in minutes.
The start of a new series & I thoroughly enjoyed this well written, well paced book. I really like both Callum & Caitriona, their chemistry sizzled & I was drawn in from the beginning & read it straight through. It was witty, there were animals including a turtle, there was a villain who got their desserts & a lovely love story
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Enter: The Duchess Games where ladies are invited to display their accomplishments in dancing, music and all social graces. Caitriona Sparrow just wants to steal the duke’s signet ring to get her smuggling operation running and save the village from ruin. Options are scarce for a thirty-one-year-old spinster, her two younger siblings, four dogs, a cranky goat, and a one-eyed fox. She might not have any pretty accomplishments, but she can sing sea shanties and debone a haddock in minutes.
The start of a new series & I thoroughly enjoyed this well written, well paced book. I really like both Callum & Caitriona, their chemistry sizzled & I was drawn in from the beginning & read it straight through. It was witty, there were animals including a turtle, there was a villain who got their desserts & a lovely love story
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 12, 2023
I loved this book. Violet and Summer made this book so much fun to read. However it was Callum and Cat’s wicked game of romance that ignited the flames of passion at a match making mama’s get together. The story is a story that’s told about love and family members willing to sacrifice all to see their loved ones happy. The story is an easy read for you readers. This is a good story. I enjoyed and look forward to more reads from this writer. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #TheDuchessGame #AlyxandraHarvey #Netgally #Goodreads #Bookbub
March 2, 2024
Content warnings: misogyny, smuggling, classism, violence, attempted murder
I saw this randomly on Kindle Unlimited and was like "uhhhhhhhh I'm sorry is that the same Alyxandra Harvey who wrote The Lovegrove Legacy and the Drake Vampire Chronicles???" And yes, yes it is. So obviously I picked it up because I loved the historical world she created in the Lovegrove Legacy books and I was excited to see what she'd do with straight up historical romance rather than paranormal historical romance-ish.
This was fun! It was bonkers. But it was fun. And funny. And I loved the dynamic between Cat and Callum, and the history between the two of them was fabulous. I'll definitely be continuing with the series because this was a delight.
I saw this randomly on Kindle Unlimited and was like "uhhhhhhhh I'm sorry is that the same Alyxandra Harvey who wrote The Lovegrove Legacy and the Drake Vampire Chronicles???" And yes, yes it is. So obviously I picked it up because I loved the historical world she created in the Lovegrove Legacy books and I was excited to see what she'd do with straight up historical romance rather than paranormal historical romance-ish.
This was fun! It was bonkers. But it was fun. And funny. And I loved the dynamic between Cat and Callum, and the history between the two of them was fabulous. I'll definitely be continuing with the series because this was a delight.
June 27, 2023
The smuggling fisherman's daughter & the duke!
A romance to escape into, savour and downright enjoy! As Harvey interweaves a dazzling array of scintillating, stolen, moments of: rescue, passion, ardent wanting and honest raw glimpses of emotion. Where each encounter between Callum and Cat notches up a degree on the heat-o-meter, screams with chemistry, makes you radiate and thrum with flushes, smile all over and laugh with happiness until the end.
I just loved these two! So, obviously in love with each other but warring between trying to deny it, brushing it aside or succumbing wholeheartedly to temptation and enjoying every exquisite sensual touch. In this fun, joyous tale about not letting second chances pass you by and seizing the moment.
Callum and Caitriona reunite after 13 years, at his austere mother's house party to manipulate his hand to the altar. Here begins the 'Duchess Games', a set of challenges designed to find the perfect future duchess of her highly anointed choosing. However, much to the reader's delight the best laid plans seem to backfire, fall askew and put her ice-queen-stickler nose right out of joint, so pleasurably, thanks to a reluctant, already, head over heels infatuated Duke, his sassy, fun loving, rebellious twin sister, Summer, his twinklingly charismatic bestfriend, Blackpool, and two beguilling village 'girls' the Sparrow sisters: Cat, the childhood girl of his dreams, champion of animals and woman of his fantasies and her younger sister, the lovely, propriety conscious, Viola. Not to mention, her straight talking brother Matthew to name but a few.
All come together to make this a well put together, scrumptiously crafted romance with subcharacters that jump off the page and intrigue with just as much well rounded depth, panache and evocative likability as our riveting leads. As well as, a whole host of in need of rescuing and rescuee animals to add to the fun, win your heart and make you laugh.
My first book by Harvey but certainly not my last... what a hoot of sizzling passion, yearnful heated glances, steamy clinches, sharp wit and a need to dodge and outsmart revenue men, a snapping turtle, title hungry ladies and a devious powerhungry smuggler to boot.
Just fabulous...I knew I was going to LOVE this...can't wait to be led where this series goes next...I'm still smiling just thinking about it!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
A romance to escape into, savour and downright enjoy! As Harvey interweaves a dazzling array of scintillating, stolen, moments of: rescue, passion, ardent wanting and honest raw glimpses of emotion. Where each encounter between Callum and Cat notches up a degree on the heat-o-meter, screams with chemistry, makes you radiate and thrum with flushes, smile all over and laugh with happiness until the end.
I just loved these two! So, obviously in love with each other but warring between trying to deny it, brushing it aside or succumbing wholeheartedly to temptation and enjoying every exquisite sensual touch. In this fun, joyous tale about not letting second chances pass you by and seizing the moment.
Callum and Caitriona reunite after 13 years, at his austere mother's house party to manipulate his hand to the altar. Here begins the 'Duchess Games', a set of challenges designed to find the perfect future duchess of her highly anointed choosing. However, much to the reader's delight the best laid plans seem to backfire, fall askew and put her ice-queen-stickler nose right out of joint, so pleasurably, thanks to a reluctant, already, head over heels infatuated Duke, his sassy, fun loving, rebellious twin sister, Summer, his twinklingly charismatic bestfriend, Blackpool, and two beguilling village 'girls' the Sparrow sisters: Cat, the childhood girl of his dreams, champion of animals and woman of his fantasies and her younger sister, the lovely, propriety conscious, Viola. Not to mention, her straight talking brother Matthew to name but a few.
All come together to make this a well put together, scrumptiously crafted romance with subcharacters that jump off the page and intrigue with just as much well rounded depth, panache and evocative likability as our riveting leads. As well as, a whole host of in need of rescuing and rescuee animals to add to the fun, win your heart and make you laugh.
My first book by Harvey but certainly not my last... what a hoot of sizzling passion, yearnful heated glances, steamy clinches, sharp wit and a need to dodge and outsmart revenue men, a snapping turtle, title hungry ladies and a devious powerhungry smuggler to boot.
Just fabulous...I knew I was going to LOVE this...can't wait to be led where this series goes next...I'm still smiling just thinking about it!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
September 15, 2023
A historical romance that’s pure millennial bait!
Alyxandra Harvey knows her audience. This heroine rescues animals! Loves dogs! Sticks up for her townspeople! Fiercely protects her family! She’s a bit curvy, too, maybe? Of course the duke is over-the-moon besotted — but still hung up on his title. The spicy scenes feel a bit contemporary. The characters are pretty adventurous.
I think my favorite part about this book is the skillful use of setting. The Cornish seaside town, the beach, and the coves fit perfectly into the story. It’s so descriptive that you can almost smell the sea air (and the fish).
Alyxandra Harvey knows her audience. This heroine rescues animals! Loves dogs! Sticks up for her townspeople! Fiercely protects her family! She’s a bit curvy, too, maybe? Of course the duke is over-the-moon besotted — but still hung up on his title. The spicy scenes feel a bit contemporary. The characters are pretty adventurous.
I think my favorite part about this book is the skillful use of setting. The Cornish seaside town, the beach, and the coves fit perfectly into the story. It’s so descriptive that you can almost smell the sea air (and the fish).
July 29, 2023
if this book has a million fans, i’m one of them. if this book has 5 fans, i’m one of them. if this book has no fans, IM DEAD!!!!!!
July 13, 2023
Per usual, Bianca did not steer me wrong
June 12, 2025
Alyxandra Harvey is pretty new author for me. This is my 5th book by her. I just finished reading her Spinster Society series and really enjoyed it. Thought I'd check out this series. I don't have any of my regular authors new releases coming out for 9 days. I have no books on my TBR and since I pretty much read a book a day, I thought I'd check out this series.
I liked Cat and Callum. I like that these stories are very different from my normal "ton" reads. I like that the FC are a little bit older. The sex scenes, although not long are good and well written. Overall a good read.
I liked Cat and Callum. I like that these stories are very different from my normal "ton" reads. I like that the FC are a little bit older. The sex scenes, although not long are good and well written. Overall a good read.
June 9, 2025
Favorite author. The characters are so strong as per usual. The main character really loves animals. The love interest really loves the main character. I want to see more of the sister, so I hope she comes back later. I also really like the smuggling sub-plot.
July 15, 2023
The Duke of Tremaine's mother, has invited her list of debutantes to a house party to choose his wife. Glad to be back at his Cornwell estate, Callum would rather be here than anywhere else. Thirteen years ago he gave his heart to Caitriona Sparrow, but he left to take over his duties as the duke. She's been able to finagle invitations to the house party for her sister and herself. Callum is now rigid and cold. But it's a mask. Caitriona must save her village from starvation, smuggling is the only option. Revenue men and a sneaky untrustworthy villager are putting her in danger. To save her village she may lose Callum's trust and love. A fast paced humorous book, with unconventional characters and unusual animals. If the next book is as good as this one, I won't be disappointed.
Very erotic.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Very erotic.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
January 18, 2024
An engaging story starting with party games to find the best candidate for a duke’s wife. She is fearless in her determination to fulfill her duties and responsibilities. She is also an animal lover and brings sunshine to his life as much as he provides support and protects her. It is hard to put down this fast paced novel.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and leaving my review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and leaving my review voluntarily.
June 30, 2023
An enjoyable sweet story with likeable characters were likeable. The animals rather stole the story for me they were very entertaining. The smuggler angle was interesting but was never really resolved as to what was going to happen with this. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 14, 2023
My only problem is if the mmc could marry FMC this easily , why didn't he do it sooner
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2023
This is a first time read for me by this author and also the first of a new series, The Dainty Devils. Callum is the Duke of Montford, and according to his mother it is high time he finds a bride. His mother comes up with a brilliant idea for The Duchess Games, where eligible ladies are invited to come and showcase their accomplishments and more or less compete for the title of duchess. Catriona is able to secure an invitation to this event for her and her sister. But her goal is not to become a duchess. She is concerned with saving her village from starvation and the only way she can do that is to engage in smuggling, and her target is the Duke's signet ring.
Caitriona and Callum met 13 years ago and spent one passionate summer together. She never forgot about him and is surprised when he remembers her. But if she follows through with her plan, she risks losing Callum and breaking his heart.
A charming second chance romance of sorts, this story is filled with passion, intrigue, romance, and moments of humor. The story was well-written and pulled me in from the very start. The author did a great job of bringing the story and characters to life. Callum and Caitriona were both interesting and likable characters and they had such sizzling chemistry. The banter between them was fun and witty and I enjoyed their encounters. The inclusion of all the different animals also added a lot of entertainment to the story. This was a great introduction for me to a new author which I fully intend to follow. Glad to have had the opportunity to read this.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Caitriona and Callum met 13 years ago and spent one passionate summer together. She never forgot about him and is surprised when he remembers her. But if she follows through with her plan, she risks losing Callum and breaking his heart.
A charming second chance romance of sorts, this story is filled with passion, intrigue, romance, and moments of humor. The story was well-written and pulled me in from the very start. The author did a great job of bringing the story and characters to life. Callum and Caitriona were both interesting and likable characters and they had such sizzling chemistry. The banter between them was fun and witty and I enjoyed their encounters. The inclusion of all the different animals also added a lot of entertainment to the story. This was a great introduction for me to a new author which I fully intend to follow. Glad to have had the opportunity to read this.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing via Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
October 1, 2025
Dear Author,
Please MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
I know HR these days don't follow the historical culture but AT LEAST make the characters and plots make sense within the world you've built. First, if you're gonna have a controlling, tyrant of a mother of a duke, does it make sense for her to invite village, dirt poor girls into a competition for your son's hand? HELL FVCKIN NO!
And if this village poor heroine can never be with a duke, WHY THE HELL would her sister have a chance to compete and be chosen as the duchess? PLEASE MAKE THIS MAKE SENSE.
If the heroine wants her sister to be the winner of the games and be a duchess, what braincells of the heroine made her think she can also steal the duke's signet ring? being a smuggler and a duchess' sister doesn't bode well in the same world. That's just idiotic. What is the heroine's real goal? cause these two mission doesn't make sense together.
If the heroine is such an adept smuggler, why the hell would she steal the duke's ring, throw it by the window seconds before getting caught, then fast forward to the next day where she probably slept, bathe, got dressed, break her fast, walk around with the ladies, compete in one of the games (she's not a contestant but due to her sister's sickness, she must join the games for some reason), save a turtle, hide in a closet with a duke and do other things and so on. But in ALL those hours, she never thought to go back to the place she dropped the ring. HOW COMPETENT!
And last but not least, one of the games is a swimming competition. Like why would a future duchess have to do with swimming? most society ladies doesn't even know how to swim.
Please MAKE IT MAKE SENSE.
I know HR these days don't follow the historical culture but AT LEAST make the characters and plots make sense within the world you've built. First, if you're gonna have a controlling, tyrant of a mother of a duke, does it make sense for her to invite village, dirt poor girls into a competition for your son's hand? HELL FVCKIN NO!
And if this village poor heroine can never be with a duke, WHY THE HELL would her sister have a chance to compete and be chosen as the duchess? PLEASE MAKE THIS MAKE SENSE.
If the heroine wants her sister to be the winner of the games and be a duchess, what braincells of the heroine made her think she can also steal the duke's signet ring? being a smuggler and a duchess' sister doesn't bode well in the same world. That's just idiotic. What is the heroine's real goal? cause these two mission doesn't make sense together.
If the heroine is such an adept smuggler, why the hell would she steal the duke's ring, throw it by the window seconds before getting caught, then fast forward to the next day where she probably slept, bathe, got dressed, break her fast, walk around with the ladies, compete in one of the games (she's not a contestant but due to her sister's sickness, she must join the games for some reason), save a turtle, hide in a closet with a duke and do other things and so on. But in ALL those hours, she never thought to go back to the place she dropped the ring. HOW COMPETENT!
And last but not least, one of the games is a swimming competition. Like why would a future duchess have to do with swimming? most society ladies doesn't even know how to swim.
June 22, 2023
Thank you, NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing, for the chance to read and review the ARC for The Duchess Games by Alyxandra Harvey!
I'm so happy to have been introduced to this author! The book was fun, fast-paced, and all the characters were likable! While we can sort of tell who the next book will be about, I honestly won't say no to reading a part two with any of the other characters.
The chemistry between Callum and Cat was electric and kept me hooked from the start. I enjoyed their tension-filled encounters, filled with witty banter and hidden desires. The author did a fantastic job of building their relationship.
You don't get a lot of Regency romance novels with so many animals and so many badly behaved animals at that! I'm trying to understand why because Sir Bartholomew and Percival were incredible! Or maybe that's because I like pets with a lot of personality i.e. will keep you in line!
I wish we had more details on Callum and Cat from when they were younger; that would have added a lot to the book. And I would have liked to know more about Cat and Viola's family. They don't exactly speak like their father was a fisherman and adding something about their family would have helped me really get into the book!
Even then, I leave this book with 4 stars and a promise to keep an eye out for the books in this series!
I'm so happy to have been introduced to this author! The book was fun, fast-paced, and all the characters were likable! While we can sort of tell who the next book will be about, I honestly won't say no to reading a part two with any of the other characters.
The chemistry between Callum and Cat was electric and kept me hooked from the start. I enjoyed their tension-filled encounters, filled with witty banter and hidden desires. The author did a fantastic job of building their relationship.
You don't get a lot of Regency romance novels with so many animals and so many badly behaved animals at that! I'm trying to understand why because Sir Bartholomew and Percival were incredible! Or maybe that's because I like pets with a lot of personality i.e. will keep you in line!
I wish we had more details on Callum and Cat from when they were younger; that would have added a lot to the book. And I would have liked to know more about Cat and Viola's family. They don't exactly speak like their father was a fisherman and adding something about their family would have helped me really get into the book!
Even then, I leave this book with 4 stars and a promise to keep an eye out for the books in this series!
October 5, 2023
Things you do for love.
The Dowager Duchess is a piece of work. I am pretty sure she would follow turkeys in a rain storm. Her machinations were the perfect twist for this story. Her snottiness could be labeled EPIC!
Callum is the best of heroes. Having carried his secret for13 years, his mother has handed him the perfect backdrop to take it out and give it some fresh air. He has lived for his title and has set himself to the side. He is tired of the games the ton play, of being used for his title, the sycophants and toadies. He dislikes London, preferring the country, especially Cornwall.
Cat is wonderful. She is smart, caring, cunning and wanting to help her small village. She is courageous and brave, if sometimes a bit brazen. She wants more for her siblings and this in the small fishing village she lives in. Her plan is riddled with what it's and depends on men who can't see their noses in front of their faces. She threatens their pride, but her plan is better thought out.
This was a pleasure to read and I hope to see a couple of the secondary characters get their HEA.
The Dowager Duchess is a piece of work. I am pretty sure she would follow turkeys in a rain storm. Her machinations were the perfect twist for this story. Her snottiness could be labeled EPIC!
Callum is the best of heroes. Having carried his secret for13 years, his mother has handed him the perfect backdrop to take it out and give it some fresh air. He has lived for his title and has set himself to the side. He is tired of the games the ton play, of being used for his title, the sycophants and toadies. He dislikes London, preferring the country, especially Cornwall.
Cat is wonderful. She is smart, caring, cunning and wanting to help her small village. She is courageous and brave, if sometimes a bit brazen. She wants more for her siblings and this in the small fishing village she lives in. Her plan is riddled with what it's and depends on men who can't see their noses in front of their faces. She threatens their pride, but her plan is better thought out.
This was a pleasure to read and I hope to see a couple of the secondary characters get their HEA.
October 11, 2023
I really need an epilogue or two! When the story involves a snapping turtle, a parrot and a one eyed goat tied to a female smuggling operation! Finished this one in one night!
It’s been a long time since a story drew me in like Callum Duke of Tremaine and Caitriona Aka Cat! Cat has secrets just to survive and so does Callum! His is in the ballrooms of London where desperate debutantes and women period throw themselves at him!
Cat and her sister have been invited to the house party for the Duchess Games and he is the prize! These two have history!
Not sure why it took so long for Callum to stay away yet claimed he never forgot Cat or one moment of their past!
Callum wanted and did live up to the cold Duke of Tremaine to keep people at a distance!
As a Duke everyone wanted a piece of him and hr thought Cat was different until she wasn’t!
When danger comes because of the choices Cat has made will Callum forgive her enough to save her!?? Bravo
It’s been a long time since a story drew me in like Callum Duke of Tremaine and Caitriona Aka Cat! Cat has secrets just to survive and so does Callum! His is in the ballrooms of London where desperate debutantes and women period throw themselves at him!
Cat and her sister have been invited to the house party for the Duchess Games and he is the prize! These two have history!
Not sure why it took so long for Callum to stay away yet claimed he never forgot Cat or one moment of their past!
Callum wanted and did live up to the cold Duke of Tremaine to keep people at a distance!
As a Duke everyone wanted a piece of him and hr thought Cat was different until she wasn’t!
When danger comes because of the choices Cat has made will Callum forgive her enough to save her!?? Bravo
February 11, 2024
This was such an enjoyable regency romp. Caitriona Sparrow has bribed her and her sister's way into a Duchess' house party, with Cat's sole goal being to advance the smuggling operation that keeps her village afloat. The Duchess intends to use the house party to audition potential duchesses for her son, Callum Winter, Duke of Tremaine. Neither Cat nor the duchess are aware that Callum's heart has long belonged to Cat.
I loved Cat and Callum's romance. Sexual tension, steam, smuggling, stray animals, sisters up to no good - all combine for a love story that is both funny and touching. I agree with some other reviewers that the ending felt a bit abrupt and did not fully resolve the smuggling issue. But that was not enough to overcome my overall enjoyment of the book.
4.5 stars rounded to 5. Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade for an ARC of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.
I loved Cat and Callum's romance. Sexual tension, steam, smuggling, stray animals, sisters up to no good - all combine for a love story that is both funny and touching. I agree with some other reviewers that the ending felt a bit abrupt and did not fully resolve the smuggling issue. But that was not enough to overcome my overall enjoyment of the book.
4.5 stars rounded to 5. Thank you to NetGalley and Dragonblade for an ARC of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.
June 27, 2023
Smugglers, Spinsters, Snapping Turtles:
This beautiful cover made me want to try out a new author for me and I am so glad I followed my instincts.
A fun and charming reunion of sorts for Callum the duke and Catriona his once sweetheart from younger days.
I really enjoyed both characters due to their whit and down to earth way of facing their foes and family.
A humorous yet thrilling story that is filled with desirous attraction, smoldering passion, many darling animals, a snapping turtle that me laughing out loud, a villain that got his just rewards and a happy ending that has encouraged me to read more from Ms. Harvey.
✔ 5 Star for a cover that can grab my attention to exactly what the book is about. Bravo!
✔Mature Advisory🌶🌶🌶
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
This beautiful cover made me want to try out a new author for me and I am so glad I followed my instincts.
A fun and charming reunion of sorts for Callum the duke and Catriona his once sweetheart from younger days.
I really enjoyed both characters due to their whit and down to earth way of facing their foes and family.
A humorous yet thrilling story that is filled with desirous attraction, smoldering passion, many darling animals, a snapping turtle that me laughing out loud, a villain that got his just rewards and a happy ending that has encouraged me to read more from Ms. Harvey.
✔ 5 Star for a cover that can grab my attention to exactly what the book is about. Bravo!
✔Mature Advisory🌶🌶🌶
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy for my honest opinion.
June 21, 2023
The Duchess Games tells the story of a handsome enigmatic duke and the beautiful girl who is just trying to get by.
I enjoyed this sweet story. The characters were likeable. I love how sweet Callum was towards Cat, even without her knowing it. I enjoyed reading about how much he loved her and the things he would do to try to help her. Cat was a wonderful heroine, funny and sweet. Although I didn't really understand what stopped Callum from just going for it sooner, rather then waiting til the end of the story. The smuggling aspect wasn't really resolved, I really doubt Callum has it in him to watch Cat and the rest of the villages break the law for the rest of his life.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC, opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this sweet story. The characters were likeable. I love how sweet Callum was towards Cat, even without her knowing it. I enjoyed reading about how much he loved her and the things he would do to try to help her. Cat was a wonderful heroine, funny and sweet. Although I didn't really understand what stopped Callum from just going for it sooner, rather then waiting til the end of the story. The smuggling aspect wasn't really resolved, I really doubt Callum has it in him to watch Cat and the rest of the villages break the law for the rest of his life.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for this ARC, opinions are my own.
March 10, 2024
Never underestimate a female
Mother of the Duke of Tremaine wants him married so arranges the Duchess Games. Amongst those invited is local 31 year old spinster Caitriona Sparrow. A truly delightful and entertaining story. Callum has no desire to marry and she is intent on stealing his signet ring so she can lead a gang of smugglers to provide for her two young sisters and save their village. Callum and Cat shared kisses once as teens but neither forgot and still have feelings for the other. The interactions between the two often left me smiling. She shows her determination to lead the smugglers despite the ever growing danger from one. Lots of humorous moments during the games while tense ones with her plans. I highly recommend this book.
Mother of the Duke of Tremaine wants him married so arranges the Duchess Games. Amongst those invited is local 31 year old spinster Caitriona Sparrow. A truly delightful and entertaining story. Callum has no desire to marry and she is intent on stealing his signet ring so she can lead a gang of smugglers to provide for her two young sisters and save their village. Callum and Cat shared kisses once as teens but neither forgot and still have feelings for the other. The interactions between the two often left me smiling. She shows her determination to lead the smugglers despite the ever growing danger from one. Lots of humorous moments during the games while tense ones with her plans. I highly recommend this book.
September 29, 2023
Another 5 Stars!! Love Alyxandra Harvey!!
I can’t read enough of Alyxandra Harvey! If you love a strong heroine focussed Historical this is your author!
Such a different perspective to a Historical and I loved the angst in this one especially. Their mutual young love turning to a want that is separated by society. This is a great version of second chance romance and opposites attract. Read it and enjoy!
I can’t read enough of Alyxandra Harvey! If you love a strong heroine focussed Historical this is your author!
Such a different perspective to a Historical and I loved the angst in this one especially. Their mutual young love turning to a want that is separated by society. This is a great version of second chance romance and opposites attract. Read it and enjoy!
October 10, 2023
What an enjoyable book from start to finish. Alyxandra Harvey has given a story with enjoyable banter, humorous and laugh out loud situations that keep you entertained until the very end.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
September 26, 2023
Oh my! What a well-written and fun read. Outstanding characters—a smart, heroine (who seems a perfect age for the hero, who is also delightful). This author is going on my list of “must reads!”
October 29, 2023
Incongruities
Metres, snapping turtles big enough to bite a man, in olde England?? I couldn’t finish it, which is annoying because I’ve enjoyed some of the author’s other books.
Metres, snapping turtles big enough to bite a man, in olde England?? I couldn’t finish it, which is annoying because I’ve enjoyed some of the author’s other books.
April 3, 2024
brilliant
Loved the book , Cat a fisherman’s daughter and smuggler worth more than a thousand ladies , and he proved how much he loved her
Loved the book , Cat a fisherman’s daughter and smuggler worth more than a thousand ladies , and he proved how much he loved her
Read
April 30, 2024Tbh I read this at the start of the month and I have no memory of it.
March 18, 2025
This was my first Alyxandra Harvey read, but it won't be my last! This was such a fun read with shenanigans and animals galore. Callum and Cat were lovely and the secondary characters were a great introduction to the series.
Tropes: I've loved you forever
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for review.
Tropes: I've loved you forever
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for review.
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