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Once Upon a Wallflower #2
The Duke and the Dressmaker
A duke becomes unraveled by love in this delightful historical romance from USA Today bestselling author Eva Devon…
Dressmaker Miss Lily Martin knows too well the sordid dealings of London’s corrupt underbelly. She should have known borrowing from one of the city’s most reviled moneylenders was risky. Horribly so. Now the loan has come due—and there’s nothing standing between Miss Lily and her darling sister’s ruin. Until a dashing American with flashing, defiant eyes intervenes…
Ship captain James Blakefield may be the new Duke of Ashbridge, but he’s only in London for six weeks to secure his estate before returning to America, and far from the watchful eye of the ton. He’ll be damned if he’ll attend another society event where eligible ladies fling themselves at his title. But when he discovers Miss Lily’s desperate predicament, James realizes he might have the perfect arrangement.
By assuming the legal guardianship of Lily’s sister, he can keep them both safe and ensure someone cares for the estate. But it means having Lily under the same roof for the next six weeks. No chaperones. No betrothal. As their undeniable attraction charges the very air between them, both propriety and restraint are threatened. But scandal is the least of their concerns when James’s secret threatens to pull everything apart at the seams...
Dressmaker Miss Lily Martin knows too well the sordid dealings of London’s corrupt underbelly. She should have known borrowing from one of the city’s most reviled moneylenders was risky. Horribly so. Now the loan has come due—and there’s nothing standing between Miss Lily and her darling sister’s ruin. Until a dashing American with flashing, defiant eyes intervenes…
Ship captain James Blakefield may be the new Duke of Ashbridge, but he’s only in London for six weeks to secure his estate before returning to America, and far from the watchful eye of the ton. He’ll be damned if he’ll attend another society event where eligible ladies fling themselves at his title. But when he discovers Miss Lily’s desperate predicament, James realizes he might have the perfect arrangement.
By assuming the legal guardianship of Lily’s sister, he can keep them both safe and ensure someone cares for the estate. But it means having Lily under the same roof for the next six weeks. No chaperones. No betrothal. As their undeniable attraction charges the very air between them, both propriety and restraint are threatened. But scandal is the least of their concerns when James’s secret threatens to pull everything apart at the seams...
223 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 4, 2023
292 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
June 3, 2024
The Duke and the Dressmaker was a delightful read featuring a romance between a seamstress and a ship captain turned duke.
Dressmaker Miss Lily Martin just wants to make enough money to take care of her sister and to open her own dress shop. When Lily borrows money from the wrong person, she isn't sure how she'll repay the loan now that it has come due as moneylenders aren't known for their patience. After ship captain James Blakefield, the new Duke of Ashbridge, offers assistance, Lily is hesitant to take it but she has little choice. As the new legal guardian of Lily's sister Violet, James just wants to ensure the girl's care before he returns to America. But after meeting Lily, James finds himself questioning if six weeks with her will be enough.
I really enjoyed Lily's character in the first book in the series, The Beast and the Bookseller, so I was excited to see that The Duke and the Dressmaker was about her character. The book opens with Lily trying to persuade her moneylender to give her more time to pay which James sees and steps in thinking she needs help. I like that she pushed back against his idea that she was a damsel in distress, leading to him trying to make amends as he made her situation worse. After it is discovered Lily's sister Violet is his new ward, the two make a deal for Lily to continue caring for Violet while they both live with the duke.
I really liked the connection Lily and James developed while living together. Lily ends up helping James a lot with how he should act in society as he has no idea how to navigate the ton now that he's part of it. I like that he trusted her instincts and that he let her take over a lot of the running of the household. Their romance is a little slow at times in large part due to Lily's hesitations as she's adamant she won't fall in love. I did get a little frustrated with her at times for that but once her reasoning was revealed, her behavior made a lot more sense. I liked how the two worked through their issues and ultimately I was really happy with how the pair's relationship played out.
Overall I really enjoyed The Duke and the Dressmaker and I'm looking forward to picking up the next book in the series, The Rake and the Rose, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
Dressmaker Miss Lily Martin just wants to make enough money to take care of her sister and to open her own dress shop. When Lily borrows money from the wrong person, she isn't sure how she'll repay the loan now that it has come due as moneylenders aren't known for their patience. After ship captain James Blakefield, the new Duke of Ashbridge, offers assistance, Lily is hesitant to take it but she has little choice. As the new legal guardian of Lily's sister Violet, James just wants to ensure the girl's care before he returns to America. But after meeting Lily, James finds himself questioning if six weeks with her will be enough.
I really enjoyed Lily's character in the first book in the series, The Beast and the Bookseller, so I was excited to see that The Duke and the Dressmaker was about her character. The book opens with Lily trying to persuade her moneylender to give her more time to pay which James sees and steps in thinking she needs help. I like that she pushed back against his idea that she was a damsel in distress, leading to him trying to make amends as he made her situation worse. After it is discovered Lily's sister Violet is his new ward, the two make a deal for Lily to continue caring for Violet while they both live with the duke.
I really liked the connection Lily and James developed while living together. Lily ends up helping James a lot with how he should act in society as he has no idea how to navigate the ton now that he's part of it. I like that he trusted her instincts and that he let her take over a lot of the running of the household. Their romance is a little slow at times in large part due to Lily's hesitations as she's adamant she won't fall in love. I did get a little frustrated with her at times for that but once her reasoning was revealed, her behavior made a lot more sense. I liked how the two worked through their issues and ultimately I was really happy with how the pair's relationship played out.
Overall I really enjoyed The Duke and the Dressmaker and I'm looking forward to picking up the next book in the series, The Rake and the Rose, soon.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**
November 1, 2023
I'm giving this 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. I enjoyed it, but not as much as the first book in the series. It was a sweet and short read. The only issue I had was that I felt like I didn't get to know the characters well enough. Despite that, they were very likable characters. Lily and James were good together, and I loved seeing how their relationship played out.
Overall, this was a simply lovely romance, and I look forward to continuing with the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Overall, this was a simply lovely romance, and I look forward to continuing with the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 31, 2023
I voluntarily read and reviewed an eARC of this book via NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Publishing: September 4, 2023
Series: Once Upon a Wallflower #2
Pages: 300
Eva Devon has an uncanny way of making you love the wallflower stories that you read. Although I have not read the first in this series, “The Duke and the Dressmaker” was a very enjoyable and worthwhile read for me. The story is of Miss Lily Martin who cares for her younger sister after the death of her parents. She took on an occupation as dressmaker/seamstress in order to survive. After borrowing money from Mother Maggie, a notorious money lender, she is confronted with one of her ruffians to collect on the debt or she and her sister face ruin. Before she can counter, James Blakefield, American sea captain and the new Duke of Ashbridge and his friend comes to her rescue. While securing his estate, Lily discovers that he is the new Duke and not the grandfather she once knew. The duke becomes the legal guardian to Violet and Lily agrees as they are in much need of his protection, and he needs someone to care for his estate. As Lily takes on her new role as housekeeper in the home, James becomes enamored and she likewise with him. The is an undeniable attraction between the two, but rumors begin to circulate as to her being unchaperoned in the home, and James offers a marriage of convenience to squelch the talk.
I loved both characters in this story. Lily is strong, dedicated, smart and has endured a lot to overcome obstacles to take care of herself and sister. She dreams of owning her own shop and will do anything to become a well-known dressmaker. James can be viewed as complicated but also had to endure hardships at a young age. As an American, patience must come to him in order to learn societal London and that is something he must learn. The two make a united front and lovely couple. This is such a well-written story that I found it hard to put down. It is one of dreams, hopes, and fears and one in which the secondary characters add well to the story. I guess I am going to have to go back and read the first in this series as I have quite enjoyed this one immensely. Recommend the read.
Rating: 5/5 Stars
Publishing: September 4, 2023
Series: Once Upon a Wallflower #2
Pages: 300
Eva Devon has an uncanny way of making you love the wallflower stories that you read. Although I have not read the first in this series, “The Duke and the Dressmaker” was a very enjoyable and worthwhile read for me. The story is of Miss Lily Martin who cares for her younger sister after the death of her parents. She took on an occupation as dressmaker/seamstress in order to survive. After borrowing money from Mother Maggie, a notorious money lender, she is confronted with one of her ruffians to collect on the debt or she and her sister face ruin. Before she can counter, James Blakefield, American sea captain and the new Duke of Ashbridge and his friend comes to her rescue. While securing his estate, Lily discovers that he is the new Duke and not the grandfather she once knew. The duke becomes the legal guardian to Violet and Lily agrees as they are in much need of his protection, and he needs someone to care for his estate. As Lily takes on her new role as housekeeper in the home, James becomes enamored and she likewise with him. The is an undeniable attraction between the two, but rumors begin to circulate as to her being unchaperoned in the home, and James offers a marriage of convenience to squelch the talk.
I loved both characters in this story. Lily is strong, dedicated, smart and has endured a lot to overcome obstacles to take care of herself and sister. She dreams of owning her own shop and will do anything to become a well-known dressmaker. James can be viewed as complicated but also had to endure hardships at a young age. As an American, patience must come to him in order to learn societal London and that is something he must learn. The two make a united front and lovely couple. This is such a well-written story that I found it hard to put down. It is one of dreams, hopes, and fears and one in which the secondary characters add well to the story. I guess I am going to have to go back and read the first in this series as I have quite enjoyed this one immensely. Recommend the read.
September 3, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed "The Duke and the Dressmaker" by Eva Devon. It's a captivating historical romance featuring Miss Lily Martin, a resilient dressmaker, and James Blakefield, an American sea captain turned Duke. The story revolves around Lily's dire financial situation, which James comes to rescue her from, eventually becoming the legal guardian of her sister. As their undeniable attraction grows, they face societal rumors, leading to a marriage of convenience.
Both characters are well-developed and endearing. Lily's determination and James's journey into English society add depth to the story. I couldn't put the book down, and it beautifully explores themes of dreams, hope, and overcoming obstacles.
I would highly recommend "The Duke and the Dressmaker" to any historical romance enthusiasts. It's a well-written, engaging tale with relatable characters that will surely capture your heart.
Both characters are well-developed and endearing. Lily's determination and James's journey into English society add depth to the story. I couldn't put the book down, and it beautifully explores themes of dreams, hope, and overcoming obstacles.
I would highly recommend "The Duke and the Dressmaker" to any historical romance enthusiasts. It's a well-written, engaging tale with relatable characters that will surely capture your heart.
January 13, 2025
Better than the first one.
September 6, 2023
(3.5 Stars) Miss Lily Martin has been working as a dressmaker for ten years since escaping from France after the death of her parents. Her mother was the daughter of a Duke and committed the sin of eloping with an artist. Lily was refused by her grandfather when she came to England with her younger sister Violet. American ship captain James Blakefield is the new Duke of Ashbridge. He was a distant relation of the previous Duke. He has come to organize the affairs of the Dukedom and run it much like he does his shipping business. He doesn’t see the need for the rules of the ton other than to make contacts that will be good for business. He also learns that he has a ward Violet.
I won't spoil the meeting of the Lily and James but he has them move into his house under his protection. After seeing how well Lily manages the house he goes a step further and suggests a more permanent arrangement giving her a title and part of the inheritance that should have been hers. In return she is helping him navigate in society.
I enjoyed this quick moving story. It is the second in the Once Upon a Wallflower series but the books are written as stand alone novels. Garrett and Elizabeth, the Duke and Duchuss of Montrose, from The Beast and The Bookseller (June 2023) make appearances. I was happy to catch up with them having read their story and like the friendship between Elizabeth and Lilly. I like in this book James is sometimes blundering. His intentions are always good but he doesn’t always consider the consequences of his actions. Lily has locked her heart because she felt her mother chose love over her children and that is a big obstacle. I liked the time I spent meeting these characters.
Thank yo to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
I won't spoil the meeting of the Lily and James but he has them move into his house under his protection. After seeing how well Lily manages the house he goes a step further and suggests a more permanent arrangement giving her a title and part of the inheritance that should have been hers. In return she is helping him navigate in society.
I enjoyed this quick moving story. It is the second in the Once Upon a Wallflower series but the books are written as stand alone novels. Garrett and Elizabeth, the Duke and Duchuss of Montrose, from The Beast and The Bookseller (June 2023) make appearances. I was happy to catch up with them having read their story and like the friendship between Elizabeth and Lilly. I like in this book James is sometimes blundering. His intentions are always good but he doesn’t always consider the consequences of his actions. Lily has locked her heart because she felt her mother chose love over her children and that is a big obstacle. I liked the time I spent meeting these characters.
Thank yo to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing LLC for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review.
September 4, 2023
Dressmaker Miss Lily Martin knows too well the sordid dealings of London’s corrupt underbelly. She should have known borrowing from one of the city’s most reviled moneylenders was risky. Horribly so. Now the loan has come due—and there’s nothing standing between Miss Lily and her darling sister’s ruin. Ship captain James Blakefield may be the new Duke of Ashbridge, but he’s only in London for six weeks to secure his estate before returning to America, and far from the watchful eye of the ton. But when he discovers Miss Lily’s desperate predicament, James realizes he might have the perfect arrangement. By assuming the legal guardianship of Lily’s sister, he can keep them both safe and ensure someone cares for the estate.
The second book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. A well written, interesting & enjoyable romance. The characters have depth & the pace is good. I really liked both James & Lily & Thoroughly enjoyed their journey to a HEA. I also liked the humour in the book & James' blundering had me chuckling. It was also great to catch up with Garrett & Elizabeth from the previous book
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The second book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. A well written, interesting & enjoyable romance. The characters have depth & the pace is good. I really liked both James & Lily & Thoroughly enjoyed their journey to a HEA. I also liked the humour in the book & James' blundering had me chuckling. It was also great to catch up with Garrett & Elizabeth from the previous book
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
September 19, 2023
Eva Devon is another of my favorite authors. I've been reading her since 2016 and believe or not, this is my 62nd book by her. I always enjoy her stories and characters. Sometimes they are a little bit too short and would love them to be longer but still good reads.
I really enjoyed this story. I liked Lily and James' personalities and their story line. I liked that they really didn't let outside influences make their decisions. As always, you have stubbornness but love always prevails.
I really enjoyed this story. I liked Lily and James' personalities and their story line. I liked that they really didn't let outside influences make their decisions. As always, you have stubbornness but love always prevails.
October 13, 2023
This book took me a while to finish and it’s because I couldn’t get into Lily’s character. She initially seemed strong and then seemed frightened and then was overall very melodramatic. Also, the timing seemed off throughout the book. I couldn’t figure out how old Violet, Lily’s sister, was because Lily said they’ve been in England for a decade but they left when Violet was 5 but Violet is now 10 years old. And, Lily’s reason for not wanting to fall in love didn’t make any sense at all. I did like James’ character though.
September 27, 2024
I absolutely adored this book (and the prior book in this series). Lily and James are both such wonderful, well-developed characters, and I loved how their romance bloomed. This is a captivating historical romance. There are a few twists which, of course, kept us entertained from beginning to end. I would definitely recommend this book and the other books in the "Once Upon a Wallflower" series.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: Sep 04, 2023
Thank you to Entangled Publishing for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Pub Date: Sep 04, 2023
August 19, 2023
I received an EARC from Netgalley and the publisher for this book, and I hadn't read the first book, The Beast and the bookseller, which I bought and read in a few hours. I loved Lily in that book ,so was thrilled that she was the heroine of this book. What a heroine she is!!
She meets James, a Duke, who turns out to be the guardian of her sister Violet. The book takes many twists and turns to get to the happy ending.
James is an American ship captain and has hopes of challenging the East India Company. Lily hopes to own her own dress shop. How their hopes and dreams intersect, and how it illustrates the stratified social classes helps raise this book from "just a romance" to a social read. I highly recommend this book, and the review is an honest and fair one. I can't wait for the next.
She meets James, a Duke, who turns out to be the guardian of her sister Violet. The book takes many twists and turns to get to the happy ending.
James is an American ship captain and has hopes of challenging the East India Company. Lily hopes to own her own dress shop. How their hopes and dreams intersect, and how it illustrates the stratified social classes helps raise this book from "just a romance" to a social read. I highly recommend this book, and the review is an honest and fair one. I can't wait for the next.
September 14, 2023
A well written story with an unuusal duke and a woman from the wrong side of the track. There's a well plotted story, a sizzling romance that made me root for the characters, and a background a bit unusual.
A well plotted and well written story
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
A well plotted and well written story
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
March 27, 2024
It was o.k., but I preferred #1. Still a good story though. 3☆
November 29, 2023
The Once Upon a Wallflower series by Eva Devon is absolutely charming and entertaining. The Duke and the Dressmaker is a perfect delightful and well paced read. Devon's writing shines, her character entice, and this second installment works so well hand in hand with the first in illustrating Devon's mastery of her craft. This novel is engaging, fun, humorous and sensuality all woven together to create a delicious romance.
The Duke and the Dressmaker explores a romance between two people who are interacting in a social class world they both don't fully agree with. James is an America ship captain who has just inherited an English Dukedom and Lily is a dressmaker whose Mother was the daughter of the recently deceased Duke. Lily is not part of the aristocracy because her Mother was disinherited after she married below her station, but Lily's younger sister is listed as the new Duke's ward. So Lily and James enter into an agreement in order to support Lily and her sister, which soon becomes a marriage of convenience. Lily and James prove to be a great team, supporting the others when necessary as well as providing a delicious temptation to explore. This romance is sweet and sexy. I loved watching these two fall in love, prove their strengths, and learn to understand each other.
If you are in the mood for a truly beautiful historical romance that shows off the wonderful nature of this romance sub-genre, than please pick up with book, or the first in this series, or any Eva Devon book. Eva Devon is truly a historical romance author to explore!
Thank you to Entangled: Amara and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Duke and the Dressmaker explores a romance between two people who are interacting in a social class world they both don't fully agree with. James is an America ship captain who has just inherited an English Dukedom and Lily is a dressmaker whose Mother was the daughter of the recently deceased Duke. Lily is not part of the aristocracy because her Mother was disinherited after she married below her station, but Lily's younger sister is listed as the new Duke's ward. So Lily and James enter into an agreement in order to support Lily and her sister, which soon becomes a marriage of convenience. Lily and James prove to be a great team, supporting the others when necessary as well as providing a delicious temptation to explore. This romance is sweet and sexy. I loved watching these two fall in love, prove their strengths, and learn to understand each other.
If you are in the mood for a truly beautiful historical romance that shows off the wonderful nature of this romance sub-genre, than please pick up with book, or the first in this series, or any Eva Devon book. Eva Devon is truly a historical romance author to explore!
Thank you to Entangled: Amara and NetGalley for an eARC, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 18, 2024
4.5 Stars This is a charming and witty historical romance that features a spirited heroine and a reluctant hero who find love in the most unexpected way. Lily Martin is a talented dressmaker who dreams of opening her own shop, but her plans are jeopardized when she owes money to a ruthless loan shark. James Blakefield is a sea captain who inherits the title of Duke of Ashbridge, but he has no interest in the responsibilities or the society that comes with it. He only wants to return to his ship and his freedom. When he learns that he is the legal guardian of Lily’s younger sister, Violet, he offers them a deal: they can stay in his house for six weeks until he settles his affairs, and he will protect them from the loan shark. But what he doesn’t expect is to fall for Lily’s fiery spirit, creative flair, and generous heart.
This was a delightful read that will make you laugh, swoon, and cheer for Lily and James as they overcome their differences and their pasts. The romance between Lily and James is sweet and steamy, with plenty of chemistry and banter. They are both strong and independent characters who challenge each other and grow together. I loved how Lily inspired James to embrace his new role as a duke, and how James supported Lily’s ambitions as a dressmaker. They are a perfect match for each other, and their happy ending is well-deserved. The secondary characters are likable, and I hope Violet will get a story of her own down the road.
The Duke and the Dressmaker is the second book in the Once Upon a Wallflower series, but it can be read as a standalone. However, fans of the first book, The Beast and the Bookseller, will enjoy seeing Elizabeth and Garrett make an appearance in this story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance with humor, heart, and heat. It is a fun and satisfying read that will leave you with a smile on your face. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a delightful read that will make you laugh, swoon, and cheer for Lily and James as they overcome their differences and their pasts. The romance between Lily and James is sweet and steamy, with plenty of chemistry and banter. They are both strong and independent characters who challenge each other and grow together. I loved how Lily inspired James to embrace his new role as a duke, and how James supported Lily’s ambitions as a dressmaker. They are a perfect match for each other, and their happy ending is well-deserved. The secondary characters are likable, and I hope Violet will get a story of her own down the road.
The Duke and the Dressmaker is the second book in the Once Upon a Wallflower series, but it can be read as a standalone. However, fans of the first book, The Beast and the Bookseller, will enjoy seeing Elizabeth and Garrett make an appearance in this story. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance with humor, heart, and heat. It is a fun and satisfying read that will leave you with a smile on your face. I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2023
A great second installment in the Once Upon a Wallflower series, THE DUKE AND THE DRESSMAKER is the story of Lily, the aspiring dressmaker, and James, the American who inherited an English dukedom. We briefly met Lily in book one of this series, as she was besties with Elizabeth, and it was so lovely getting to know more about her and her sister, Violet.
Lily finds herself in quite the predicament. She owes money to a powerful woman in the city’s crime circuit, and inability to pay means said woman will make Lily repay her debt by working in the skin trade. Things get even more complicated when James, thinking a woman is in danger, oversteps a boundary and beats up the man escorting Lily home. A man who happens to be in the employ of the lady moneylender. Things are looking even worse when Lily gets kicked out of her flat, taking nothing except her sister, and the two are now homeless, penniless, with no one to turn to. Except, as it turns out, James happens to be new the guardian of Violet, and he just happens to have a big old manor with plenty of space for two additional people.
I absolutely loved James and Lily together. They had incredible chemistry, and that was evident from their very first encounter. Their banter was fun, I loved how unconventional they both were. Lily is a very independent woman, James has a protective streak when it comes to her, and they butt heads on several occasions because of that. Despite their instant attraction, their relationship is a slow burner, as each of them have pasts that refuse to let go. I loved watching their relationship develop and it was so lovely once they got moved past their hesitation to be together. All told, a delightful and fun second installment. 4 stars.
Lily finds herself in quite the predicament. She owes money to a powerful woman in the city’s crime circuit, and inability to pay means said woman will make Lily repay her debt by working in the skin trade. Things get even more complicated when James, thinking a woman is in danger, oversteps a boundary and beats up the man escorting Lily home. A man who happens to be in the employ of the lady moneylender. Things are looking even worse when Lily gets kicked out of her flat, taking nothing except her sister, and the two are now homeless, penniless, with no one to turn to. Except, as it turns out, James happens to be new the guardian of Violet, and he just happens to have a big old manor with plenty of space for two additional people.
I absolutely loved James and Lily together. They had incredible chemistry, and that was evident from their very first encounter. Their banter was fun, I loved how unconventional they both were. Lily is a very independent woman, James has a protective streak when it comes to her, and they butt heads on several occasions because of that. Despite their instant attraction, their relationship is a slow burner, as each of them have pasts that refuse to let go. I loved watching their relationship develop and it was so lovely once they got moved past their hesitation to be together. All told, a delightful and fun second installment. 4 stars.
August 30, 2023
When being abandoned most of your life, it makes achieving your dreams seem impossible and love too hurtful.
Lily found herself slaving away in a dress shop, taking care of her sister, and having her designs taken from her.
James, the new Duke of Ashbridge, is definitely not like most Dukes. He obtained the title being a distant relative, is a ship captain, and blast, is American. James meets Lily when finding out about his ward, her sister.
Both characters are pretty unconventional, but have similar horrible pasts. I liked the marriage of convenience turning into love. The marriage offer was out of a kind gesture and intention so love grew easily even if denied. Only thing that bothered me a little is that the characters related? Maybe not close enough to be a marriage concern.
Some extra time spent on ships would have been nice since the focus was more on Lily's passion. A steamy scene there would have been fun.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
Lily found herself slaving away in a dress shop, taking care of her sister, and having her designs taken from her.
James, the new Duke of Ashbridge, is definitely not like most Dukes. He obtained the title being a distant relative, is a ship captain, and blast, is American. James meets Lily when finding out about his ward, her sister.
Both characters are pretty unconventional, but have similar horrible pasts. I liked the marriage of convenience turning into love. The marriage offer was out of a kind gesture and intention so love grew easily even if denied. Only thing that bothered me a little is that the characters related? Maybe not close enough to be a marriage concern.
Some extra time spent on ships would have been nice since the focus was more on Lily's passion. A steamy scene there would have been fun.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and Netgalley for providing me a copy of this ARC for my honest review.
September 22, 2023
The Duke and the Dressmaker. Truly amazing a love story. This love is a strong bond that built itself in the hearts of three people. Their souls became that vessel to fend off all that tries to break through that barrier. I think it was Violet who was the first kind heart to pick up the mantle.
I was transcended to a time where family was the strongest bond that there ever was in the time of need. Lily and violets story was very moving for me. I could feel every emotion that the two came against through the narrative of embracing story. Imagine being told to get out and leave behind what little belongings that you have with no money. To walk the streets.
It was so easy for me to picture this. My heart could go out to these young souls. Lily is a strong willed woman who works very hard to make sure that her sister has a good life. Lily has the dream of a dress shop and she is determined to see that dream come to fruition. However, danger, evil vengeance lurks the well to do streets of the noble homes.
I love that the story keeps you reading to see if the better good will out weigh the bad. Well James is their to lend some support, but it’s the romance of Lily and James that provides the entertainment. Two people who clash together are supposed to come to some middle for Violet. With the help of Derby and Mrs. Mason all will reveal itself in the end. I give this book two snaps and a twist.
Until next my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #TheDukeandtheDressmaker #EvaDevon #Netgally #GoodReads
I was transcended to a time where family was the strongest bond that there ever was in the time of need. Lily and violets story was very moving for me. I could feel every emotion that the two came against through the narrative of embracing story. Imagine being told to get out and leave behind what little belongings that you have with no money. To walk the streets.
It was so easy for me to picture this. My heart could go out to these young souls. Lily is a strong willed woman who works very hard to make sure that her sister has a good life. Lily has the dream of a dress shop and she is determined to see that dream come to fruition. However, danger, evil vengeance lurks the well to do streets of the noble homes.
I love that the story keeps you reading to see if the better good will out weigh the bad. Well James is their to lend some support, but it’s the romance of Lily and James that provides the entertainment. Two people who clash together are supposed to come to some middle for Violet. With the help of Derby and Mrs. Mason all will reveal itself in the end. I give this book two snaps and a twist.
Until next my fellow readers. Read on! I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. #TheDukeandtheDressmaker #EvaDevon #Netgally #GoodReads
March 11, 2024
What can I say, part of me will always love Regency romance and Eva Devon is one of the best at it I've ever read.
Reading this book, it's one of those books that makes you think about how one person can change your life, now I'm not saying everyone will end up with a Duke taking them in, but at one point or another most people will have that one moment where one decision can change their lives.
Growing up Lily knew love, her parents, they were in love, they loved her and they gave her a life filled with happiness, until the unthinkable happened.
Watching Lily grow, learn to stand up for herself, how trust not only James but herself, and find a home for herself and her sister.
Now we all know how these stories go so I won't spoil the details of this one, but it's unique and fun and makes you appreciate the people around you.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing a copy of this E-Book, I have voluntarily read and reviewed it and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Reading this book, it's one of those books that makes you think about how one person can change your life, now I'm not saying everyone will end up with a Duke taking them in, but at one point or another most people will have that one moment where one decision can change their lives.
Growing up Lily knew love, her parents, they were in love, they loved her and they gave her a life filled with happiness, until the unthinkable happened.
Watching Lily grow, learn to stand up for herself, how trust not only James but herself, and find a home for herself and her sister.
Now we all know how these stories go so I won't spoil the details of this one, but it's unique and fun and makes you appreciate the people around you.
Thank you to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for providing a copy of this E-Book, I have voluntarily read and reviewed it and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 30, 2023
"Dressmaker Miss Lily Martin knows too well the sordid dealings of London’s corrupt underbelly. She should have known borrowing from one of the city’s most reviled moneylenders was risky. Horribly so. Now the loan has come due—and there’s nothing standing between Miss Lily and her darling sister’s ruin. Until a dashing American with flashing, defiant eyes intervenes… Ship captain James Blakefield may be the new Duke of Ashbridge, but he’s only in London for six weeks to secure his estate before returning to America, and far from the watchful eye of the ton. He’ll be damned if he’ll attend another society event where eligible ladies fling themselves at his title. But when he discovers Miss Lily’s desperate predicament, James realizes he might have the perfect arrangement."
This is a good book. Society events don't interest him but he is interested in Lily.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
This is a good book. Society events don't interest him but he is interested in Lily.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. This in no way affects my opinion of this book.
August 28, 2023
What an emotional roller coaster ride this is. To think that children like Lilly saw the French Terror as described here is just heartbreaking. The scars left caused so much pain and doubt, it is no wonder Lilly acted as she did. James had his own childhood issues and it was so delightful to see how new friends could bring everything into focus for them both. Violet’s insight at her young age was so delicious to see and I hope at some point we will see a story of her own. This is a beautifully written love story and the way Lilly gets out of trouble in the end almost made me cry. I loved these characters and will miss them dearly!
I received this ARC copy for free and these are my own opinions.
I received this ARC copy for free and these are my own opinions.
September 9, 2023
Two people afraid to fall in love make for an intriguing story.
James and Lily are the main characters and both are in need of help. They decide to help each other and come up with a unique arrangement.
The storyline is very entertaining and keeps you engaged throughout the story.
Thank you @entangled and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
James and Lily are the main characters and both are in need of help. They decide to help each other and come up with a unique arrangement.
The storyline is very entertaining and keeps you engaged throughout the story.
Thank you @entangled and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
November 3, 2023
Thank you to Entangled for my review copy!
I was expecting to love this one. This is my 5th Eva Devon book this year, but unfortunately I think it was my least favorite one. I may have liked it more if I had waited for the audiobook to become available.
The Duke and the Dressmaker felt really boring to me because conflicts kept being resolved too easily. There was no tension, and no reason to turn the page. While I read romances because I like cozy books, this was too cozy even for me.
I look forward to reading more books by this author, and would recommend this if you need a palette cleanser that will give you zero stress.
I was expecting to love this one. This is my 5th Eva Devon book this year, but unfortunately I think it was my least favorite one. I may have liked it more if I had waited for the audiobook to become available.
The Duke and the Dressmaker felt really boring to me because conflicts kept being resolved too easily. There was no tension, and no reason to turn the page. While I read romances because I like cozy books, this was too cozy even for me.
I look forward to reading more books by this author, and would recommend this if you need a palette cleanser that will give you zero stress.
October 1, 2023
3.5 stars
The beginning was good, but the story just moved way too fast.
The beginning was good, but the story just moved way too fast.
October 29, 2023
This was a cute story with a very ridged James, who is new to the Dukedom. Lily has been abandoned on purpose and by circumstances.
She has done the best she could to save herself and her sister. Dressmaking has been what has kept them afloat for years.
James has now shown up with a new marriage proposition, which she can't pass up. While James and Lily are forced together, they realize they love being together.
The journey to that end goal is beautiful to read between these two.
The Duke and the Dressmaking isn't a long romance, which made it a great read between those more extensive books
She has done the best she could to save herself and her sister. Dressmaking has been what has kept them afloat for years.
James has now shown up with a new marriage proposition, which she can't pass up. While James and Lily are forced together, they realize they love being together.
The journey to that end goal is beautiful to read between these two.
The Duke and the Dressmaking isn't a long romance, which made it a great read between those more extensive books
August 7, 2025
Another sweet regency romance. This book didn’t have a prominent bad guy but still managed to build tension. Looking forward to the third in the series
September 15, 2023
3.5 Stars
September 7, 2023
A newly-minted duke from America and a disinherited lady that grew up in France meet in England in this sweet, uplifting romance.
I appreciated Lily’s pragmatic approach to James’s proposal, but also how she acknowledged her feelings towards him and her desire to explore it. The romance between them developed slowly and I enjoyed their interactions.
But… These two drove me crazy. James showed Lily repeatedly that he would support her in all her efforts, and let her be who she wanted to be. But at the moment of conflict, she forgot all that and fell back into her old habits of protecting herself. Both of them professed to have reasons for doubting love and was very opposed to falling in love, but I found their reasons inconsistent and conveniently added to contribute to the argument they had. At times Lily remembered her parents’ love for each other with fondness and then later she described it as something that was destructive instead? Abandonment issues made sense for both of them and the story was set up to take excellent advantage of that. I don’t think it needed the additional element of “I don’t believe in love”. It is undeniable that Lily had trust issues as well and I completely understand her desire to protect herself and her sister.
I liked the ending and Lily’s grand gesture. The story was easy to read and flowed well. And the fact that James was from America and Lily grew up in France added an interesting layer.
I can recommend this if you like steamy historical romance. This is book two in the series, but it stands well on its own.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 6, 2023
The plot is totally implausible, but if you can suspend disbelief, this is an enjoyable story about two unlikely protagonists. Somehow, the duke is now an American sea captain, who has been searching for the former duke’s granddaughter as he is her guardian. By great coincidence, he finds the older granddaughter who is a dressmaker trying to support herself and her younger sister. Apparently, she survived the Terror and escaped to England and is now living on the brink of catastrophic poverty.
One thing that bothered me was the sense of history that was missing in the book. The younger daughter had to be born some time during or before the Terror because their parents were killed in the terror. So now it’s 10 or 11 years later and Napoleon is on the throne in France. Already, by this time, there were tensions between England and the United States over shipping rights. There seems to be no mention of this when an American shows up in England and then spends his time lobbying against the British East India Company. That’s fine, but wouldn’t he have also been lobbying to stop impressing American sailors and to protect American sailing rights? It bothered me that the author just elided over basic facts of American history that she could have gotten from Wikipedia.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review
One thing that bothered me was the sense of history that was missing in the book. The younger daughter had to be born some time during or before the Terror because their parents were killed in the terror. So now it’s 10 or 11 years later and Napoleon is on the throne in France. Already, by this time, there were tensions between England and the United States over shipping rights. There seems to be no mention of this when an American shows up in England and then spends his time lobbying against the British East India Company. That’s fine, but wouldn’t he have also been lobbying to stop impressing American sailors and to protect American sailing rights? It bothered me that the author just elided over basic facts of American history that she could have gotten from Wikipedia.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book that I received from Netgalley; however, the opinions are my own and I did not receive any compensation for my review
November 5, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is book 2 in the series by Eva Devon and the story of a secondary character from book 1. The FMC is Lily Martin, a dressmaker and friend of Elizabeth, the new Duchess of Montrose (book 1). Lily is the daughter of the estranged daughter of the duke of Ashbridge, who eloped with her French art teacher. Their family was rejected and reviled by the Duke, and English society. Instead, they made their lives in France, with Lily's father starting to make a name for himself as an artist. They formed a loving family life in France when they were caught up in the Revolution. But rather than try to escape the chaos and reach out to her English family, and seek safety in England, Lily's mother chose to stay by her husband's side in France. Unfortunately young Lily and her sister, Violet, were witness to the execution of both their parents, and forced to escape with just the coins she had squirrelled away in her clothes. Lily and Violet managed to make their way to England, and approached her grandfather, the Duke, to seek refuge from the only remaining family she was aware of, only to be rejected in the most appalling manner.
Lily, disillusioned, bitter, and realizing she can depend on nobody but herself, was forced to seek employment utilizing the only skills she had, sewing and dress design. For the next many years, to gain some semblance of safe shelter for herself and her young sister, Lily essentially lives the life of indentured servitude to a modiste who makes her business based on Lily's design. In a desperate bid to gain her independence and ultimate goal of owning her own business, Lily borrows from a notorious money lender.
James Blakefield wants nothing to do with London Society and the aristocracy. Not surprising as he is American... but because of circumstances beyond his control, he ends up being the heir to the dead Duke of Ashbridge. He already is a wealthy American merchant, but is forced to go to London to take over the responsibilities of the dukedom. He hopes to deal with them swiftly as well as meet his business goals, including using the ducal powers to persuade others to work with him to bring down the corrupt East India Company, then swiftly return to America and manage the dukedom from afar. He finds out that part of his responsibility is taking care of a missing ward of the Duke, his young granddaughter, Violet. James is frustrated in his life as it is, having to play nice with the aristocracy by attending their balls and social events to try to bend ears to his desire to take down the Company, and unable to locate his ward as yet.
Lily and James find each other when Lily tries to renegotiate with the money lender, and James, with his overly developed hero complex, tries to intervene, thinking he is saving a damsel in distress, but instead she tears him a new one, making him realize that he may have saved her in the instant, but in the long run worsened her situation. He is stunned further when he discovers she has a young sister, who may be the ward he is searching for.
James and Lily end up in a marriage of convenience that becomes more as they spend time together and learn more about each other. It fits James sense of justice when he finds out her relationship and treatment by the previous duke. But they fail to communicate with each other, and while they are attracted to each other, they are afraid to express their feelings to each other. Even worse, James fails to speak to Lily about his original ultimate plan to return to America... and she has suffered such profound loss and abandonment in the past that it almost breaks her when she discovers his plans.
A lovely romance of two social rejects finding each other. Their relationship was originally a mutually beneficial deal, but they quickly grow from a friends to love - except they fail to communicate with each other and this leads to growing fears and doubt on both their parts that almost tear them apart and stop them from finding their HEA. Luckily they are forced to face their fears and their mistakes by the intervention of good friends who see things more clearly than they do - including appearances of the Duke and Duchess of Montrose.
3.75 stars out of 5
This is book 2 in the series by Eva Devon and the story of a secondary character from book 1. The FMC is Lily Martin, a dressmaker and friend of Elizabeth, the new Duchess of Montrose (book 1). Lily is the daughter of the estranged daughter of the duke of Ashbridge, who eloped with her French art teacher. Their family was rejected and reviled by the Duke, and English society. Instead, they made their lives in France, with Lily's father starting to make a name for himself as an artist. They formed a loving family life in France when they were caught up in the Revolution. But rather than try to escape the chaos and reach out to her English family, and seek safety in England, Lily's mother chose to stay by her husband's side in France. Unfortunately young Lily and her sister, Violet, were witness to the execution of both their parents, and forced to escape with just the coins she had squirrelled away in her clothes. Lily and Violet managed to make their way to England, and approached her grandfather, the Duke, to seek refuge from the only remaining family she was aware of, only to be rejected in the most appalling manner.
Lily, disillusioned, bitter, and realizing she can depend on nobody but herself, was forced to seek employment utilizing the only skills she had, sewing and dress design. For the next many years, to gain some semblance of safe shelter for herself and her young sister, Lily essentially lives the life of indentured servitude to a modiste who makes her business based on Lily's design. In a desperate bid to gain her independence and ultimate goal of owning her own business, Lily borrows from a notorious money lender.
James Blakefield wants nothing to do with London Society and the aristocracy. Not surprising as he is American... but because of circumstances beyond his control, he ends up being the heir to the dead Duke of Ashbridge. He already is a wealthy American merchant, but is forced to go to London to take over the responsibilities of the dukedom. He hopes to deal with them swiftly as well as meet his business goals, including using the ducal powers to persuade others to work with him to bring down the corrupt East India Company, then swiftly return to America and manage the dukedom from afar. He finds out that part of his responsibility is taking care of a missing ward of the Duke, his young granddaughter, Violet. James is frustrated in his life as it is, having to play nice with the aristocracy by attending their balls and social events to try to bend ears to his desire to take down the Company, and unable to locate his ward as yet.
Lily and James find each other when Lily tries to renegotiate with the money lender, and James, with his overly developed hero complex, tries to intervene, thinking he is saving a damsel in distress, but instead she tears him a new one, making him realize that he may have saved her in the instant, but in the long run worsened her situation. He is stunned further when he discovers she has a young sister, who may be the ward he is searching for.
James and Lily end up in a marriage of convenience that becomes more as they spend time together and learn more about each other. It fits James sense of justice when he finds out her relationship and treatment by the previous duke. But they fail to communicate with each other, and while they are attracted to each other, they are afraid to express their feelings to each other. Even worse, James fails to speak to Lily about his original ultimate plan to return to America... and she has suffered such profound loss and abandonment in the past that it almost breaks her when she discovers his plans.
A lovely romance of two social rejects finding each other. Their relationship was originally a mutually beneficial deal, but they quickly grow from a friends to love - except they fail to communicate with each other and this leads to growing fears and doubt on both their parts that almost tear them apart and stop them from finding their HEA. Luckily they are forced to face their fears and their mistakes by the intervention of good friends who see things more clearly than they do - including appearances of the Duke and Duchess of Montrose.
3.75 stars out of 5
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