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The Heirs' Club of Scoundrels #1
The Duke in My Bed
HERE COMES THE GROOM
As a notorious member of the Heirs' Club, Bray Drakestone can't resist a challenge from one of his well-heeled colleagues-especially when it involves money and horses. But the friendly wager takes an unexpected and deadly turn. Bray is forced to agree to marry one of his challenger's five sisters-sight unseen. Now gamblers all over London are placing bets on whether Bray will actually go through with it...
THERE GOES THE BRIDE
Miss Louisa Prim, the eldest sister, doesn't care a whit what the reckless rogue at the Heirs' Club promised her brother-she has no intention of marrying the future Duke of Drakestone. Bray, however, sees her rejection as another challenge. He bets that the fiery Miss Prim will not only agree to marry him, she will propose to him! With four sisters behind her, Louisa knows she can't lose. But why does her opponent have to be a divinely handsome scoundrel? And so sweetly, irresistibly seductive...
As a notorious member of the Heirs' Club, Bray Drakestone can't resist a challenge from one of his well-heeled colleagues-especially when it involves money and horses. But the friendly wager takes an unexpected and deadly turn. Bray is forced to agree to marry one of his challenger's five sisters-sight unseen. Now gamblers all over London are placing bets on whether Bray will actually go through with it...
THERE GOES THE BRIDE
Miss Louisa Prim, the eldest sister, doesn't care a whit what the reckless rogue at the Heirs' Club promised her brother-she has no intention of marrying the future Duke of Drakestone. Bray, however, sees her rejection as another challenge. He bets that the fiery Miss Prim will not only agree to marry him, she will propose to him! With four sisters behind her, Louisa knows she can't lose. But why does her opponent have to be a divinely handsome scoundrel? And so sweetly, irresistibly seductive...
308 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published December 30, 2014
60 people are currently reading
1593 people want to read
About the author
Amelia Grey
35 books856 followersAmelia Grey (aka Gloria Dale Skinner) grew up in a small town in the Florida Panhandle. She has been happily married to her high school sweetheart for over twenty-five years. She has lived in Alabama, Connecticut, New Hampshire and now lives in Florida.
Amelia has won the coveted Romantic Times award for Love and Laughter, the prestigious Maggie award for best historical and Affaire de Coeur's best American historical award. She has been a finalist for the Golden Heart and the Holt Medallion awards which are given by Romance Writers of America and numerous other awards. Her books have been sold to many countries in Europe, Russia and China.
Amelia likes flowers, candlelight, sweet smiles, gentle laughter and sunshine.
Amelia has won the coveted Romantic Times award for Love and Laughter, the prestigious Maggie award for best historical and Affaire de Coeur's best American historical award. She has been a finalist for the Golden Heart and the Holt Medallion awards which are given by Romance Writers of America and numerous other awards. Her books have been sold to many countries in Europe, Russia and China.
Amelia likes flowers, candlelight, sweet smiles, gentle laughter and sunshine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
July 5, 2021
THIS WAS SO CUTEEEEEE! The duke was with Louisa's brother when he died and promised him that he'd take care of Louisa and her four sisters by marrying her. Well, two years later and Louisa and her sisters are back in London for her younger sister to come out and the duke never made good on his promise of marrying Louisa. From the start, Louisa has no interest in marrying the duke. He is thrown off by five rambunctious sisters and has never had that kind of family before. He doesn't know how to handle a family like that, but they were definitely my favorite. I loved the interaction Louisa and her sisters had and how integral to the romance they all were. Louisa would do anything for her sisters, which was so adorable. The chaperone that came to stay with them was also so fun and I enjoyed watching her try to get the women married off. It was so fun watching Louisa and the duke fall for each other, but Louisa was still adamant that she would never marry him. I just had so much fun with this book! Thanks to Lisa for the recommendation!
February 24, 2021
Real rating 4.5
This was such an unexpectedly pleasant and fun book. I never read the author before but now I'm on a binge because this one was hilarious, heartwarming, and sexy. Our heroine's brother has died from a carriage accident and now she finds out his best friend has to marry her to fulfill his dying wish. However, our heroine has 4 younger sisters and she does not want to marry someone who can't handle her whole family or no love. Our hero is upset that she denies him so he challenges her that in the end, she would propose to him. I thought it could have been a perfect 5 stars if only it had a lengthier meatier ending but it's still so so good.
This was such an unexpectedly pleasant and fun book. I never read the author before but now I'm on a binge because this one was hilarious, heartwarming, and sexy. Our heroine's brother has died from a carriage accident and now she finds out his best friend has to marry her to fulfill his dying wish. However, our heroine has 4 younger sisters and she does not want to marry someone who can't handle her whole family or no love. Our hero is upset that she denies him so he challenges her that in the end, she would propose to him. I thought it could have been a perfect 5 stars if only it had a lengthier meatier ending but it's still so so good.
April 30, 2016
Duke Bray Drakestone was unfortunate enough to promise his dying friend that he would marry his younger sister Miss Louisa Prim and offer her the protection of Duke's name. Everything in the Duke rebelled against the idea of being saddled with Louisa and her five younger sisters. So he ignored her for 2 years. Now Bray is ready to due his duty and approached Louisa, but found that Louisa had not been pining away for him. Can he really go through with this arrangement and can he convince Louisa to have him?
I really liked both main characters because they were kind of thrown together by circumstances beyond their control. However, their ability to adapt to their situation and allow their counterpart to grow made this story enjoyable. Louisa was everything one could want in a big sister and once Bray got over being "forced" into a marriage, he saw that Louisa was a really good person. I liked the younger sisters and their desire to have a protector in Bray. the ending where they had their family dinner was my favorite scene in the book.
*special thanks to Tantor Media for the audiobook
I really liked both main characters because they were kind of thrown together by circumstances beyond their control. However, their ability to adapt to their situation and allow their counterpart to grow made this story enjoyable. Louisa was everything one could want in a big sister and once Bray got over being "forced" into a marriage, he saw that Louisa was a really good person. I liked the younger sisters and their desire to have a protector in Bray. the ending where they had their family dinner was my favorite scene in the book.
*special thanks to Tantor Media for the audiobook
March 17, 2016
Ja zaista uživam u ovakvim pričama, jednostavno se opustim i zaboravim na sve oko sebe. Preporučujem svim istinskim ljubiteljima istorijske romanse. Jedva čekam da počnem da čitam sledeći deo serijala i nadam se da će biti neka priča o jednoj od sestara Prim, baš su mi prirasle k srcu.
November 24, 2014
Okay, this was adorable. I am not a huge historical romance reader, but when I do, I love this type of comical storyline. It is a rather short and sweet read and that’s absolutely fine with me.
Rules of etiquette and social behavior must have been incredibly draining back in the day. So much could be ruined by society gossip and the lovely Louisa come across as a smart lady who if it not for the time period would not give a damn. Learning to behavior in London society is quite the adventure.
The notorious Bray Drakestone will do all he can to keep his roguish lifestyle…..well until he becomes enamored by the lovely Ms. Prim.
Wild, crazy children, cocky mothers and a social network rife with gossip! It’s a grand trip back in time with some roguish sexy thrown it.
Love it :)
ARC give via Netgalley/St. Martin's Press
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Rules of etiquette and social behavior must have been incredibly draining back in the day. So much could be ruined by society gossip and the lovely Louisa come across as a smart lady who if it not for the time period would not give a damn. Learning to behavior in London society is quite the adventure.
The notorious Bray Drakestone will do all he can to keep his roguish lifestyle…..well until he becomes enamored by the lovely Ms. Prim.
Wild, crazy children, cocky mothers and a social network rife with gossip! It’s a grand trip back in time with some roguish sexy thrown it.
Love it :)
ARC give via Netgalley/St. Martin's Press
Follow us on
KT Book Reviews
January 16, 2015
A disappointment. Not much character development and they were too modern.
December 12, 2014
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
3.5 stars in total.
5 stars for Bray.
5 stars for the sisters
3 stars for Louisa.
5 stars for certain parts of the storyline, while a lower rating for others.
This is going to be a jumbled up mess of a review, so I apologize in advance.
I'm not entirely sure how to review The Duke in My Bed, to be honest. I don't want to go into a long book-report-style review, as I don't want to ruin the book for those who are reading the review prior to purchase, as I often do.
I'll start with what I absolutely adored. The book pulled every emotion out of me: happy, sad, grief, hope, but mainly frustration. I laughed a few times and got choked up just as often. For me to feel the gamut of emotions, this is a sign of a fantastic book written by an incredible author. Not often do I find myself where if someone were to watch me read, I'd have a myriad of expressions cross my face.
The main premise of the story was engaging and darling. The beginning was absolutely heart-wrenching, as was the conversation between the H/h about said events. By far, the best parts of the book were when Bray and the children were on scene together, bantering and driving each other up a wall.
What I wasn't too fond of with the story was the heroine. 1/2 the time I was her biggest fan, and the other half I was confused to where she went and who was left in her place. (Bray never deviated from character) It was another case of the lady doth protest too much. Her inner monologue belied her actions at one point, majorly so. For Prim and Proper to act as she did, and then not really give it a second thought, or a first for that matter, was beyond odd. The book dragged at the end while we waited for the heroine to get where we all knew where we're going, both the reader and the cast of characters. So it was frustrating, like 'okay, let's hurry up, then.'
As I said, I'm having a difficult time reviewing this book. Mainly because I'm on the fence between raving about it and complaining about it. There were parts I absolutely LOVED, while others frustrated me to no end. One such was repetitive/redundant inner monologue. Whether in the male or female narration, it was the same thoughts scrolling through their heads for several chapters in a row, subjecting the reader to a repeat, even though it was a different character. It was just a different flavor of angst, but the same 'issue', if that makes any sense. So I believe this is what was giving me difficulty as it slowed the pacing.
Another note, but not anything that reflected in my rating, the editing. I noticed minor errors that were only slightly pulling me from the story, but when I was struggling to read through the inner monologue I stated above, it made it that much more difficult to stay engaged with the read. It was to be expected from an uncorrected proof. I struggled but I understood missing words, jumbled up sentences, and double words (it was more than usual, though)
(I said this didn't impact my rating, but it did impact my enjoyment, entertainment, and how engaged I was with the book. So perhaps it did effect my rating) When I was totally engrossed, right at the HEA ending, there were some of the strangest errors I've ever read, completely yanking me from the story. Where I had to sit, stumped, trying to decipher an entire sentence, that no matter how hard I tried...
Didn't she from that mom that she was in his home he women's set huge.
Would I recommend this book: Yes, to historical romance lovers who like the sweeter side of romance while experiencing a roller coaster ride of emotions. But only read the final copy.
would I read more by this author: Yes. I am looking forward to the next in the series, curious to note the direction of the story, and hoping to hear more from the Prim children, as they were a delight to read.
3.5 stars in total.
5 stars for Bray.
5 stars for the sisters
3 stars for Louisa.
5 stars for certain parts of the storyline, while a lower rating for others.
This is going to be a jumbled up mess of a review, so I apologize in advance.
I'm not entirely sure how to review The Duke in My Bed, to be honest. I don't want to go into a long book-report-style review, as I don't want to ruin the book for those who are reading the review prior to purchase, as I often do.
I'll start with what I absolutely adored. The book pulled every emotion out of me: happy, sad, grief, hope, but mainly frustration. I laughed a few times and got choked up just as often. For me to feel the gamut of emotions, this is a sign of a fantastic book written by an incredible author. Not often do I find myself where if someone were to watch me read, I'd have a myriad of expressions cross my face.
The main premise of the story was engaging and darling. The beginning was absolutely heart-wrenching, as was the conversation between the H/h about said events. By far, the best parts of the book were when Bray and the children were on scene together, bantering and driving each other up a wall.
What I wasn't too fond of with the story was the heroine. 1/2 the time I was her biggest fan, and the other half I was confused to where she went and who was left in her place. (Bray never deviated from character) It was another case of the lady doth protest too much. Her inner monologue belied her actions at one point, majorly so. For Prim and Proper to act as she did, and then not really give it a second thought, or a first for that matter, was beyond odd. The book dragged at the end while we waited for the heroine to get where we all knew where we're going, both the reader and the cast of characters. So it was frustrating, like 'okay, let's hurry up, then.'
As I said, I'm having a difficult time reviewing this book. Mainly because I'm on the fence between raving about it and complaining about it. There were parts I absolutely LOVED, while others frustrated me to no end. One such was repetitive/redundant inner monologue. Whether in the male or female narration, it was the same thoughts scrolling through their heads for several chapters in a row, subjecting the reader to a repeat, even though it was a different character. It was just a different flavor of angst, but the same 'issue', if that makes any sense. So I believe this is what was giving me difficulty as it slowed the pacing.
Another note, but not anything that reflected in my rating, the editing. I noticed minor errors that were only slightly pulling me from the story, but when I was struggling to read through the inner monologue I stated above, it made it that much more difficult to stay engaged with the read. It was to be expected from an uncorrected proof. I struggled but I understood missing words, jumbled up sentences, and double words (it was more than usual, though)
(I said this didn't impact my rating, but it did impact my enjoyment, entertainment, and how engaged I was with the book. So perhaps it did effect my rating) When I was totally engrossed, right at the HEA ending, there were some of the strangest errors I've ever read, completely yanking me from the story. Where I had to sit, stumped, trying to decipher an entire sentence, that no matter how hard I tried...
Didn't she from that mom that she was in his home he women's set huge.
Would I recommend this book: Yes, to historical romance lovers who like the sweeter side of romance while experiencing a roller coaster ride of emotions. But only read the final copy.
would I read more by this author: Yes. I am looking forward to the next in the series, curious to note the direction of the story, and hoping to hear more from the Prim children, as they were a delight to read.
November 28, 2014
'I received a copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review'
Bray has a problem. He and another gentleman were drinking and made a bet on a horse race between the two of them. Something went horribly wrong though. The other Gentleman had and accident and was killed. Before he died he asked two things of Bray. To take his dog and to marry the oldest of his sisters. So having made a death bed promise to the man in front of plenty of witnesses that he would. He has put it off as long as he can but now it's time. Once he see's her he thinks it won't be so bad being married to her. However, she doesn't want to marry him. So now it just became a challenge. He vows he will not marry her until she proposes to him.
Lousia wants nothing to do with the handsome gentleman that showed up at their door once she realized who he was. She had known about the deathbed promise. She also knows it's been years since the promise. She also blames Bray for her brothers death. But as much as she doesn't want to have anything to do with him she just can't seem to get him out of her head. She is beyond attracted to him and he just won't stop kissing her. How is she supposed to fight these feelings for him if he is always there breaking through all of the barriers she has set in place?
My Opinion:
I absolutely loved this book! This is the second book that I have read by Amelia Grey and both times I have finished in one sitting unable to put the book down. I am a big fan of historical romance and Amelia has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Any chance that I have to read one of her books I will be jumping on. This book has loveable characters in the Prim girls. The younger girls are utterly adorable. It is very easy to connect with Lousia's character. If you are a lover of historical Romance then this is definitely a book for you! I highly recommend reading!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
Bray has a problem. He and another gentleman were drinking and made a bet on a horse race between the two of them. Something went horribly wrong though. The other Gentleman had and accident and was killed. Before he died he asked two things of Bray. To take his dog and to marry the oldest of his sisters. So having made a death bed promise to the man in front of plenty of witnesses that he would. He has put it off as long as he can but now it's time. Once he see's her he thinks it won't be so bad being married to her. However, she doesn't want to marry him. So now it just became a challenge. He vows he will not marry her until she proposes to him.
Lousia wants nothing to do with the handsome gentleman that showed up at their door once she realized who he was. She had known about the deathbed promise. She also knows it's been years since the promise. She also blames Bray for her brothers death. But as much as she doesn't want to have anything to do with him she just can't seem to get him out of her head. She is beyond attracted to him and he just won't stop kissing her. How is she supposed to fight these feelings for him if he is always there breaking through all of the barriers she has set in place?
My Opinion:
I absolutely loved this book! This is the second book that I have read by Amelia Grey and both times I have finished in one sitting unable to put the book down. I am a big fan of historical romance and Amelia has quickly become one of my favorite authors. Any chance that I have to read one of her books I will be jumping on. This book has loveable characters in the Prim girls. The younger girls are utterly adorable. It is very easy to connect with Lousia's character. If you are a lover of historical Romance then this is definitely a book for you! I highly recommend reading!
'Read and Reviewed by LSK Sweetheart Reviews'
February 21, 2015
I HATED LOUISA THE HEROINE!!!! BUYER BEWARE!!
The Duke in My Bed was a real WASTE OF MONEY AND TIME!!! I hated the heroine Louisa Prim, she is delusional, whiny and she is a liar!! This women made no sense at all. When will authors learn you have to at least like the lead characters!! I recommend you don't waste your time or money on this book.
Bray Drakestone the Marquis of Lockington and heir to the Duke of Drakestone, promises his dying friend he will marry his sister Louisa and take care of the other sisters. Bray was pushed into to this vow by the crowd watching as Viscount Nathan Prim lay dyeing after his carriage overturns in a race. I loved Bray and all his attempts help the Stupid Louisa and the other sisters. Everything Bray did for them Louisa complained about. Her uncle has been stingy and mean toward them since he obtained the title of Viscount. He abandons them and gives Bray unwanted guardianship of the 5 girls ranging in age from 6 to 20. Without even asking Bray about it. Toward the end of the story this dumb Louisa goes to the Court of Chancery to overturn Bray who is now the Duke of Drakestone as there guardian. She actually lies on him too the Mr.Thurgood one of the Chancellors. This is after the idiot women gives Bray her virginity and refuses again to marry him. WTH!!!
The reason I gave this book 2 stars is Bray the Marquis and now Duke is written the way a Duke should be written. I think Bray was wonderful, giving and kind to Louisa and her 4 sisters He gave them everything. So what the heck is the dumb, stupid Louisa complaining and whining about? I guess she wanted to go back living in poverty under her uncles care. It just doesn't make sense!!!
I have to agree with another review about the 4 and 5 star reviews, this story is Not worth 4 or 5 star rating. Buyer Beware!!! Louisa will have you ready to throw you book or e reader!!
The Duke in My Bed was a real WASTE OF MONEY AND TIME!!! I hated the heroine Louisa Prim, she is delusional, whiny and she is a liar!! This women made no sense at all. When will authors learn you have to at least like the lead characters!! I recommend you don't waste your time or money on this book.
Bray Drakestone the Marquis of Lockington and heir to the Duke of Drakestone, promises his dying friend he will marry his sister Louisa and take care of the other sisters. Bray was pushed into to this vow by the crowd watching as Viscount Nathan Prim lay dyeing after his carriage overturns in a race. I loved Bray and all his attempts help the Stupid Louisa and the other sisters. Everything Bray did for them Louisa complained about. Her uncle has been stingy and mean toward them since he obtained the title of Viscount. He abandons them and gives Bray unwanted guardianship of the 5 girls ranging in age from 6 to 20. Without even asking Bray about it. Toward the end of the story this dumb Louisa goes to the Court of Chancery to overturn Bray who is now the Duke of Drakestone as there guardian. She actually lies on him too the Mr.Thurgood one of the Chancellors. This is after the idiot women gives Bray her virginity and refuses again to marry him. WTH!!!
The reason I gave this book 2 stars is Bray the Marquis and now Duke is written the way a Duke should be written. I think Bray was wonderful, giving and kind to Louisa and her 4 sisters He gave them everything. So what the heck is the dumb, stupid Louisa complaining and whining about? I guess she wanted to go back living in poverty under her uncles care. It just doesn't make sense!!!
I have to agree with another review about the 4 and 5 star reviews, this story is Not worth 4 or 5 star rating. Buyer Beware!!! Louisa will have you ready to throw you book or e reader!!
June 17, 2015
Meh. A book this short shouldn't have taken me so long to read. It started out well, and then just kind of plateaued until I found myself skimming. My biggest issues with it were:
1. Neither character really grows as a person in a way that makes sense. For example, Bray was an only child of two people that were only children and didn't grow up with much family. To him, Louisa's sisters were loud and annoying. He encountered them maybe three times for very short periods of time before deciding he missed them. It just didn't make sense.
2. Sometimes the language was clunky and awkward. One sentence Bray said even made me snicker because it sounded more like a woman.
3. Every "problem" is resolved without anyone facing any real consequences. Gwen leaves a ball with a known scoundrel and returns to where people can see that she is upset but no one says anything about it. And then the uncle returns in the end wanting guardianship back but Louisa just runs to Bray and suddenly HEA.
I doubt that I'll be rushing out to get the next book.
1. Neither character really grows as a person in a way that makes sense. For example, Bray was an only child of two people that were only children and didn't grow up with much family. To him, Louisa's sisters were loud and annoying. He encountered them maybe three times for very short periods of time before deciding he missed them. It just didn't make sense.
2. Sometimes the language was clunky and awkward. One sentence Bray said even made me snicker because it sounded more like a woman.
3. Every "problem" is resolved without anyone facing any real consequences. Gwen leaves a ball with a known scoundrel and returns to where people can see that she is upset but no one says anything about it. And then the uncle returns in the end wanting guardianship back but Louisa just runs to Bray and suddenly HEA.
I doubt that I'll be rushing out to get the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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March 25, 2022Review also available at The Smut Report.
Heat Factor: Moderately coercive
Character Chemistry: Loathing each other, longing for each other
Plot: Dissolute Duke makes a vow to marry a dying man’s sister
Overall: Maybe if you really love dukes you’d like it?
Here’s the premise: Bray, heir to the Duke of Drakestone, spends his days running around London drinking, gambling, whoring, etc. Until one night, he drunkenly agrees to a curricle race, and there’s an accident, and the other man dies. Bray promises the dying man that he’ll take care of Bray’s younger sisters, which includes marrying the eldest – though he only does so after the dying man begs a bit and the bystanders exert some peer pressure.
Fast forward to two years later. Bray has assumed the Dukedom, and has decided that it’s high time he set about producing an heir. So he finally goes to visit Miss Louisa Prim (yes, her name is Miss Prim, because names are very symbolic and important) (and if names are symbolic and important, then Bray is… a donkey? Who makes donkey noises? I digress) to inform her that he’ll marry her now, and she’s like, “nah, I’m good thanks.”
Bray’s response is basically:
Because this interaction happens about thirty pages in, for the rest of the book I kept picturing Bray as Barney Stinson from How I Met Your Mother, and it was scarily accurate to his characterization and also completely unsexy.
The rest of the plot is basically about them getting together, with a lot of side-machinations from various people who have wagered on the outcome – including the Prince Regent, who wagered the Elgin Marbles to the Archduke of Austria. Whoops.
A major shortcoming of this book, besides the terrible hero, is the uneven characterization of other characters, particularly of our heroine Louisa. Louisa feels responsible for her four younger sisters and treats them all like small children – even though the next eldest is only two years her junior, and is making her debut in society. Their relationship made no sense to me whatsoever. So Louisa is all world-weary and strict with her sisters, but also leaves her hair down like all the time, which seemed extremely out of character for such a prim and responsible young lady and was also very distracting because she was constantly pushing it behind her shoulders. Let’s not even talk about all of her conflicting emotions about Bray the Duke of Debauchery, or her supposedly clever remarks which were not even a little bit smart.
Speaking of uneven characterizations, there’s all this nonsense about Louisa’s chaperone, Mrs. Colthrust, which highlights how inconsistent all the characters are. The Duke is like: “She is not an appropriate chaperone for you.” But even though he’s been appointed the girls’ guardian (don’t ask, it’s complicated and makes no sense), he doesn’t replace her. Mrs. Colthrust herself is a bit grasping, and always gets the number of sisters wrong (I think it’s supposed to be humor?), and doesn’t mince words, but she also successfully introduces Louisa to the right people and generally gives her solid advice about the correct way to navigate society. So – what’s wrong with her?
Finally: let’s talk about the sex scenes between Louisa and Bray. The first time they kiss felt so gross and non-consensual that I just… couldn’t. What happens is: Bray tells Louisa that she has to slap him or he’ll kiss her. She tries to leave and he forcibly restrains her. She doesn’t slap him, so he blindfolds her and then kisses her senseless. She likes it, of course, but that doesn’t mean that she wanted it to happen. (There are also some questionable power dynamics in play when they consummate their relationship, particularly since they’re playing a game of will-we-or-won’t-we get married.)
Look, I like a good bodice-ripper, which means that there’s rapey stuff going on, I can generally get past it - in certain contexts. But The Duke in My Bed was written in 2015, and this is no bodice-ripper.
Reading this book brought home to me the irony of me being the one taking on The Duke Project, because our hero has many classic Duke trappings and I loathed him. Loathed. Him. He’s debauched and dissolute, but also has a weird personal honor code, and manages his properties properly. And had a sad and lonely childhood, with nary a family dinner in sight. All of this together… well, he’s arrogant and also utterly annoying. People who like Dukes *cough*Erin*cough* may say he’s self-assured and dominant, and may therefore more easily overlook the power dynamics in favor of the fantasy of a man taking control.
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Heat Factor: Moderately coercive
Character Chemistry: Loathing each other, longing for each other
Plot: Dissolute Duke makes a vow to marry a dying man’s sister
Overall: Maybe if you really love dukes you’d like it?
Here’s the premise: Bray, heir to the Duke of Drakestone, spends his days running around London drinking, gambling, whoring, etc. Until one night, he drunkenly agrees to a curricle race, and there’s an accident, and the other man dies. Bray promises the dying man that he’ll take care of Bray’s younger sisters, which includes marrying the eldest – though he only does so after the dying man begs a bit and the bystanders exert some peer pressure.
Fast forward to two years later. Bray has assumed the Dukedom, and has decided that it’s high time he set about producing an heir. So he finally goes to visit Miss Louisa Prim (yes, her name is Miss Prim, because names are very symbolic and important) (and if names are symbolic and important, then Bray is… a donkey? Who makes donkey noises? I digress) to inform her that he’ll marry her now, and she’s like, “nah, I’m good thanks.”
Bray’s response is basically:
Because this interaction happens about thirty pages in, for the rest of the book I kept picturing Bray as Barney Stinson from How I Met Your Mother, and it was scarily accurate to his characterization and also completely unsexy.
The rest of the plot is basically about them getting together, with a lot of side-machinations from various people who have wagered on the outcome – including the Prince Regent, who wagered the Elgin Marbles to the Archduke of Austria. Whoops.
A major shortcoming of this book, besides the terrible hero, is the uneven characterization of other characters, particularly of our heroine Louisa. Louisa feels responsible for her four younger sisters and treats them all like small children – even though the next eldest is only two years her junior, and is making her debut in society. Their relationship made no sense to me whatsoever. So Louisa is all world-weary and strict with her sisters, but also leaves her hair down like all the time, which seemed extremely out of character for such a prim and responsible young lady and was also very distracting because she was constantly pushing it behind her shoulders. Let’s not even talk about all of her conflicting emotions about Bray the Duke of Debauchery, or her supposedly clever remarks which were not even a little bit smart.
Speaking of uneven characterizations, there’s all this nonsense about Louisa’s chaperone, Mrs. Colthrust, which highlights how inconsistent all the characters are. The Duke is like: “She is not an appropriate chaperone for you.” But even though he’s been appointed the girls’ guardian (don’t ask, it’s complicated and makes no sense), he doesn’t replace her. Mrs. Colthrust herself is a bit grasping, and always gets the number of sisters wrong (I think it’s supposed to be humor?), and doesn’t mince words, but she also successfully introduces Louisa to the right people and generally gives her solid advice about the correct way to navigate society. So – what’s wrong with her?
Finally: let’s talk about the sex scenes between Louisa and Bray. The first time they kiss felt so gross and non-consensual that I just… couldn’t. What happens is: Bray tells Louisa that she has to slap him or he’ll kiss her. She tries to leave and he forcibly restrains her. She doesn’t slap him, so he blindfolds her and then kisses her senseless. She likes it, of course, but that doesn’t mean that she wanted it to happen. (There are also some questionable power dynamics in play when they consummate their relationship, particularly since they’re playing a game of will-we-or-won’t-we get married.)
Look, I like a good bodice-ripper, which means that there’s rapey stuff going on, I can generally get past it - in certain contexts. But The Duke in My Bed was written in 2015, and this is no bodice-ripper.
Reading this book brought home to me the irony of me being the one taking on The Duke Project, because our hero has many classic Duke trappings and I loathed him. Loathed. Him. He’s debauched and dissolute, but also has a weird personal honor code, and manages his properties properly. And had a sad and lonely childhood, with nary a family dinner in sight. All of this together… well, he’s arrogant and also utterly annoying. People who like Dukes *cough*Erin*cough* may say he’s self-assured and dominant, and may therefore more easily overlook the power dynamics in favor of the fantasy of a man taking control.
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June 4, 2021
This was disappointing. It's a wonder I made it through the whole book without DNF'ing it. It's rare for me to have such a negative reaction to a book, as I enjoy most of the books I read.
My biggest problem with this book was the heroine, Louisa. The begining was promising, she seemed like the kind of tough heroine I would like, but I quickly came to dislike her. She was very judgemental and whiny, and I thought she was very inconsistent. I didn't have any strong feelings about Bray, and for a supposed scoundrel he was very bland. Neither of the main character felt believeable to me. Louisa's character growth was lacking, and Bray's was just odd to me.
Sadly this book wasn't for me, but I appreciate that others seem to have enjoyed it.
My biggest problem with this book was the heroine, Louisa. The begining was promising, she seemed like the kind of tough heroine I would like, but I quickly came to dislike her. She was very judgemental and whiny, and I thought she was very inconsistent. I didn't have any strong feelings about Bray, and for a supposed scoundrel he was very bland. Neither of the main character felt believeable to me. Louisa's character growth was lacking, and Bray's was just odd to me.
Sadly this book wasn't for me, but I appreciate that others seem to have enjoyed it.
December 30, 2014
If I had one word to describe this book it would be adorable. Everything in it was just adorable!
The heroine was, the hero was and their romance was just too damn adorable.
Our heroine, Louisa could be annoying at times, but man I liked her regardless.
But what made this story extremely enjoyable for me was our hero, Bray. I adored the growth his character went through under our very noses.
And although it took a bit longer for the romance to blossom between these two, the road to it was fun and entertaining.
If you’re in a mood for a romance that offers a good plot and a story that tugs at your heartstrings and tickles your funny bone, then this is a romance for you.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
The heroine was, the hero was and their romance was just too damn adorable.
Our heroine, Louisa could be annoying at times, but man I liked her regardless.
But what made this story extremely enjoyable for me was our hero, Bray. I adored the growth his character went through under our very noses.
And although it took a bit longer for the romance to blossom between these two, the road to it was fun and entertaining.
If you’re in a mood for a romance that offers a good plot and a story that tugs at your heartstrings and tickles your funny bone, then this is a romance for you.
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
December 4, 2016
This was a cute read. I thought at times Louisa's sisters were a bit too annoying, she couldn't have a decent conversation with Bray. I was surprised at the two or three times they were able to be completely alone. I wish there would've been more scenes with just the two of them and without the sisters. Overall, this was a feel-good read.
November 14, 2014
The Duke In My Bed by Amelia Grey
I really love books where the hero and heroine chase each other all over London. This book is exactly like that. Bray made a death bed promise to marry Louisa and has been hounded over that promise for two years. Now Louisa is not only in London bringing the gossip to a roar, but he has been handed guardianship of her and her four sisters. It seems he can no longer ignore his promise.
Bray is a typically gentleman of the ton. Raised in a loveless, arranged marriage as an only child, he has no notion of what love is or a normal marriage. In the time since he made his promise, his father has died and he is now a young Duke. He knows he needs to eventually marry to provide heirs and he is procrastinating about Miss Louisa. He is of the mindset that any woman will do for his Duchess, so he may as well meet this woman and see how things land. His father taught him to be a man of indulgence and hide his emotions. He has never known warmth and comfort of a home and family. This is his main flaw throughout the book, and the one thing that has to evolve for him to be with Louisa.
When he arrives at Louisa’s house, the chaos of the girls is deafening to him. I totally enjoyed how overwhelmed he was by the little girls of the Prim family. However, when he meets Louisa, he is surprised at how lovely she is and he immediately thinks this won’t be so bad.
Too bad for him as Louisa looks at him like he is dung on his boots. She wants nothing to do with him, yet is trapped by her circumstances as a young unmarried woman and the neglectful and rather deceitful actions of the new Viscount Wayebury. It was thrilling to read about their first encounter as it sets the stage for an interesting and lively courtship. He wants her, but is repelled by the notion of duty and a promise and she is horrified at his cavalier attitude towards her family and her brother’s death.
The two dance around each other. I loved the scenes with balls and parties when Bray and Louisa would spar and ignore each other. But you know from the author’s skilled writing that they really want each other, but are letting everything and everyone else get in the way.
As if the pressure on Bray from his friends and the ton wasn’t enough, it turns out Prinny has an eye on his upcoming nuptials and is monitoring closely what is happening between the two. These were delightful scenes as the noose tightens on Bray.
The passion between Bray and Louisa is very hot. He has animal magnetism and when he cages her in the library for a kiss; it was as if you had just read ten pages of the hottest love scenes. The fact that attraction is very strong between the two is just another lure to bringing them together.
But for the relationship to happen, Bray must prove that he is a good man. He shows Louisa through his actions that he is a good man. Albeit grudgingly at times, he takes care of her sisters and shows patience and thoughtfulness to their care. I think this is what wins Louisa over as she comes to see him as protective and caring. Louisa is hard to win over and even fights Bray with all the weapons at her disposal, such as petitioning to have his guardianship removed.
When circumstances come to a head with her uncle, Louisa realizes that she must make a decision. She has to make the best decision for herself and her sisters. Has she changed Bray enough to accept a family? Can their marriage be more than a typical ton union? Those are the questions the reader is left with right until the end of the book. The epilogue was great as it gave the reader a wonderful glimpse into the future of the Prim family and Bray.
Reviewed for www.kiltsandswords.com
I really love books where the hero and heroine chase each other all over London. This book is exactly like that. Bray made a death bed promise to marry Louisa and has been hounded over that promise for two years. Now Louisa is not only in London bringing the gossip to a roar, but he has been handed guardianship of her and her four sisters. It seems he can no longer ignore his promise.
Bray is a typically gentleman of the ton. Raised in a loveless, arranged marriage as an only child, he has no notion of what love is or a normal marriage. In the time since he made his promise, his father has died and he is now a young Duke. He knows he needs to eventually marry to provide heirs and he is procrastinating about Miss Louisa. He is of the mindset that any woman will do for his Duchess, so he may as well meet this woman and see how things land. His father taught him to be a man of indulgence and hide his emotions. He has never known warmth and comfort of a home and family. This is his main flaw throughout the book, and the one thing that has to evolve for him to be with Louisa.
When he arrives at Louisa’s house, the chaos of the girls is deafening to him. I totally enjoyed how overwhelmed he was by the little girls of the Prim family. However, when he meets Louisa, he is surprised at how lovely she is and he immediately thinks this won’t be so bad.
Too bad for him as Louisa looks at him like he is dung on his boots. She wants nothing to do with him, yet is trapped by her circumstances as a young unmarried woman and the neglectful and rather deceitful actions of the new Viscount Wayebury. It was thrilling to read about their first encounter as it sets the stage for an interesting and lively courtship. He wants her, but is repelled by the notion of duty and a promise and she is horrified at his cavalier attitude towards her family and her brother’s death.
The two dance around each other. I loved the scenes with balls and parties when Bray and Louisa would spar and ignore each other. But you know from the author’s skilled writing that they really want each other, but are letting everything and everyone else get in the way.
As if the pressure on Bray from his friends and the ton wasn’t enough, it turns out Prinny has an eye on his upcoming nuptials and is monitoring closely what is happening between the two. These were delightful scenes as the noose tightens on Bray.
The passion between Bray and Louisa is very hot. He has animal magnetism and when he cages her in the library for a kiss; it was as if you had just read ten pages of the hottest love scenes. The fact that attraction is very strong between the two is just another lure to bringing them together.
But for the relationship to happen, Bray must prove that he is a good man. He shows Louisa through his actions that he is a good man. Albeit grudgingly at times, he takes care of her sisters and shows patience and thoughtfulness to their care. I think this is what wins Louisa over as she comes to see him as protective and caring. Louisa is hard to win over and even fights Bray with all the weapons at her disposal, such as petitioning to have his guardianship removed.
When circumstances come to a head with her uncle, Louisa realizes that she must make a decision. She has to make the best decision for herself and her sisters. Has she changed Bray enough to accept a family? Can their marriage be more than a typical ton union? Those are the questions the reader is left with right until the end of the book. The epilogue was great as it gave the reader a wonderful glimpse into the future of the Prim family and Bray.
Reviewed for www.kiltsandswords.com
July 24, 2017
Meh...
Típica de regencia con Duque fiestero, criado para no expresar sus emociones (?), y vírgen que lo enamora.
Dentro de todo, él no evoluciona mal. Es creíble su cambio. Es ella a la que no entendí. Empieza como mujer fuerte, después dominada hasta por su chaperona, después no entendí su pensar. Después tampoco.
Una escena hot.
Terminan juntos.
Fin
Típica de regencia con Duque fiestero, criado para no expresar sus emociones (?), y vírgen que lo enamora.
Dentro de todo, él no evoluciona mal. Es creíble su cambio. Es ella a la que no entendí. Empieza como mujer fuerte, después dominada hasta por su chaperona, después no entendí su pensar. Después tampoco.
Una escena hot.
Terminan juntos.
Fin
January 6, 2015
I had no problem with the storyline or the writing. My only problem with this book was the heroine.
I found Louisa to be a complete contradiction. She was also completely unbelievable both in thought and action. She says she only cares about her sisters welfare - yet proceeds to act in a way that could totally ruin her reputation and therefore hurt their chances for a good marriage. She was always jumping to conclusions about Bray and was usually wrong.
Also the whole sister thing was unreal - they were spoiled brats in my opinion. And to expect someone who had never been around children to know how to interact with them immediately was ridiculous.
I read the authors note and she mentioned that she comes from a large family and used that to draw from. Well, I also come from a large family - 7 girls and 2 boys, with an age difference of 25 years between the oldest and youngest. And I can honestly say - I never expect anyone who doesn't come from that type of mayhem to understand or feel comfortable right away. I would respect that they are clueless and try to help them, instead of judging them harshly.
Now Bray was very likable. Sure he made mistakes and could be a bit of a jerk. But he really tried to do the right thing. And all he got for his trouble was condemnation. Why he wanted to marry Louisa is beyond me.
I will read the rest of this series, because I like Ms. Grey's writing style and usually I really like her books - maybe coming from a large family myself made me bias about this book.
I found Louisa to be a complete contradiction. She was also completely unbelievable both in thought and action. She says she only cares about her sisters welfare - yet proceeds to act in a way that could totally ruin her reputation and therefore hurt their chances for a good marriage. She was always jumping to conclusions about Bray and was usually wrong.
Also the whole sister thing was unreal - they were spoiled brats in my opinion. And to expect someone who had never been around children to know how to interact with them immediately was ridiculous.
I read the authors note and she mentioned that she comes from a large family and used that to draw from. Well, I also come from a large family - 7 girls and 2 boys, with an age difference of 25 years between the oldest and youngest. And I can honestly say - I never expect anyone who doesn't come from that type of mayhem to understand or feel comfortable right away. I would respect that they are clueless and try to help them, instead of judging them harshly.
Now Bray was very likable. Sure he made mistakes and could be a bit of a jerk. But he really tried to do the right thing. And all he got for his trouble was condemnation. Why he wanted to marry Louisa is beyond me.
I will read the rest of this series, because I like Ms. Grey's writing style and usually I really like her books - maybe coming from a large family myself made me bias about this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2022
My first book by this author... and I did really enjoy it. Most of the characters were interesting and fun to follow through. I liked the hero the best, he was very easy to root for. The only thing keeping it from a 5-star rating was the heroine. I kept rationalizing her stubborn, wishy-washy shrewish behavior to her young age and that I may have reacted the same way that she did as well... but it made for some eye rolls while reading. I really don't think she gave the hero enough time to acclimate himself to being around 5 girls in a household all at once. She was very quick to judge him, but it all ended very nicely. The other issue that I noticed was that this book was not very steamy. There was one kissy, lose-your-virginity scene but that was it and it was almost at the end of the book. It didn't take anything away from the book for me, but it might for some.
December 1, 2017
This romance was a bit too slow to develop. It had started off with great potential but then the heroine's prim and extremely proper behaviour kept getting on my nerves. I liked the hero and was amazed that he eventually got accustomed to the heroine's unruly little sisters. The two youngest sisters were supposed to be cute and mischievous but I found them fucking tedious and annoying. A little bit of mischief can be cute from kids but too much unruly tantrums and unchecked behaviour is horrible. The heroine loved her little sisters but obviously had little control over them. Here's hoping that her sister Gwen's novel will be more interesting.
January 20, 2015
Did not finish book. It was too dark for me. All that talk about the heroine's brother dying and how no one in the hero's family ever loved him. The book was depressing me.
October 2, 2016
This was a cute and fun story.
July 25, 2021
This was fine.
As I was listening to the audiobook, I enjoyed it but then when I finished it, I mostly felt 'meh' on the story as a whole.
Louisa is the eldest sister of 4 girls, her parents have been dead and her brother died 2 years ago. Now the man that was with her brother at his death and who her brother begged to marry her is now her guardian because her uncle gave over guardianship and left town without a word. Bray doesn't want to marry anyone, let alone Louisa but he is shocked when he goes to meet her and she doesn't want to marry him.
There were a lot of tropes and other things in this book that I normally love in a romance but at the end of the day I felt very little romance between Bray and Louisa. Yea, they kissed a few times, but I never felt like they were really interested except to kiss a few times.
Two aspects I did really like about this though were one, the sisters. They were fun and I just loved the scenes where the younger ones were in the room. And two, I liked that Louisa rejected Bray and stuck with that for a while.
However at the end of this I was pretty ambivalent about the story as a whole. I don't see myself continuing the series but I do think I will read another book by Amelia Grey and give the author another shot.
As I was listening to the audiobook, I enjoyed it but then when I finished it, I mostly felt 'meh' on the story as a whole.
Louisa is the eldest sister of 4 girls, her parents have been dead and her brother died 2 years ago. Now the man that was with her brother at his death and who her brother begged to marry her is now her guardian because her uncle gave over guardianship and left town without a word. Bray doesn't want to marry anyone, let alone Louisa but he is shocked when he goes to meet her and she doesn't want to marry him.
There were a lot of tropes and other things in this book that I normally love in a romance but at the end of the day I felt very little romance between Bray and Louisa. Yea, they kissed a few times, but I never felt like they were really interested except to kiss a few times.
Two aspects I did really like about this though were one, the sisters. They were fun and I just loved the scenes where the younger ones were in the room. And two, I liked that Louisa rejected Bray and stuck with that for a while.
However at the end of this I was pretty ambivalent about the story as a whole. I don't see myself continuing the series but I do think I will read another book by Amelia Grey and give the author another shot.
September 18, 2017
Although Grey has been writing for some time, I have never read her romances before. Many of them are written under the name, Gloria Dale Skinner, and are set in the American West. I don't usually read that type of romance.
Something led me to this story and I am glad. Grey has written an interesting book that kept me reading on a lazy day at the beach. I thought I was going to nap, but I needed to know that Bray and Louisa did make it to their HEA.
Good chocolate ice cream, good hot fudge and lots of whipped cream.
Something led me to this story and I am glad. Grey has written an interesting book that kept me reading on a lazy day at the beach. I thought I was going to nap, but I needed to know that Bray and Louisa did make it to their HEA.
Good chocolate ice cream, good hot fudge and lots of whipped cream.
June 20, 2018
Not gonna lie, it took me a while to get through this one.
I picked this one up for two primary reasons:
1. I judged it by the cover... to the extreme (don't lie, you do it too)
2. The blurb was extremely compelling
However, the reason it took me so long to get through was because this book has an EXTREMELY slow start! This is both a PRO and a CON however, the first three chapters are literally the blurb just expanded. And that's fine, I like to know what I'm reading, however, due to that, the book was fairly predictable.
Normally, I'd give my own summary/blurb however there really isn't more to this one. The summary above is truly a representative microcosm for the book, for better or worse.
Rubric:
Character Like-abilty: 8/10 Louisa was truly a perfect person to read about because she is like-able, relatable and someone you can truly cheer for. My one complaint would be that at times her independence and loyalty towards her sisters' cause the plot to become redundant and stale. (i.e. yes, we get it, you don't trust men. However, instead of forcing out one of the good ones- who has proven he cares for you multiple times- maybe let your guard down.
As for Bray;
He was a fairly stereotypical rogue-turned-gentleman-for-love character. Despite that, he is seen trying to do right by the girls and be a good guardian/brother. One of the reasons that I found him so like-able was that he was honest and real. Never was he seen writing poetry or changing in ASTRONOMICAL ways for Louisa. And truly, that is a rarity that I found completely and utterly refreshing.
"I'm not going to lie to you, Louisa, and tell you I love you. All I know is that I feel differently about you than any other woman. I think about you, I want you, I want to be with you, but I don't know that it's love." Bray, to Louisa in one of the most charming and oddly romantic proposals I have ever witnessed. The quote above is a terrific representation to the tone of the novel.
Character Development: 7/10 Louisa did not change very much throughout the course of the novel. Her values, morals and ideals remained fairly consistent (which is ok, given that they were strong and fueled her like-ability as a character). Her redeeming factor is that she opened up at the end and finally allowed herself to trust Bray.
Bray's development makes up for Louisa's shortcomings in many ways: he went from being the self-declared "only child of two only children" with no clue how to handle children to a "brother"ly influence. I really enjoyed watching him change into someone who could support Louisa and her needs in a husband.
Supporting Characters: 3/10 Yikes. This was a fairly low point in the book, in the terms that the supporting characters felt like fillers (which they are. However it should NEVER feel that way) that were merely inserted when it was
a.) vital to the plot
b.) convenient for the moment
Character's who should have been very important (i.e. Mrs. Colthrust, Gwen, etc.) just popped up as though they were on a schedule. They would completely disappear if it was convenient at that moment in the story.
Plot Development: 4/10 As I previously stated, once you've read the blurb, you basically know the entire story (like most novels), however this book- more than a lot of others- was especially predictable. That being said, the plot was terrific and engaging. If the blurb had been a little less descriptive it would have been absolutely fine. My objection is that I knew the whole story from reading a six hundred word teaser.
Plot: 10/10 For creativity and originality. I can safely say I've never seen anything like this before.
Ending (I put this in a different category as to not hurt the score of the phenomenal plot): 5/10 The ending felt rushed, a rather quick wrap up to three hundred plus pages of drama and intrigue. And although there are times when a story simply needs to end, I wouldn't have minded hearing a bit more. That being said, it was a fine, happy ending that was well deserved. My issue being it was perfectly bland and forgettable.
Sex/Romantic Chemistry: 9/10 They only had sex once, however it was pretty damn hot and thorough. The build-up was very well written. I can really appreciate that because this is Historical Romance, the goal is NOT three hundred pages of them going at it like rabbits, however it's not meant to be some sanitized middle school play devoid of romance. This book got the balance of plot and sex PERFECTLY, I only wish there had been one additional sex scene at the end.
Teasing Additional Books: 1/10 (aka 10/10) As I said, the supporting character game was lacking. And most of the time, that is immensely frustrating. However in the case of teasing other books LESS IS MORE. This book was able to introduce the heroes of the next two books without drawing focus away from the plot. This was executed perfectly.
Conclusion- I am glad that I picked up this book and saw it through. The plot was out of this world, the characters were like-able and it was overall a really good read. I had some issues with this book, it wasn't perfect, however, if you like realistic historical romance this is worth a try. I will definitely keep an eye out for the next two books in this series as I cannot wait to read Adam and Harrison's stories.
Final score- 56/80 aka 70% aka 3.5 out of 5
*Note*- I read this on my phone, and for whatever reason the books I read on my phone tend to get a lower score than their print twins
I picked this one up for two primary reasons:
1. I judged it by the cover... to the extreme (don't lie, you do it too)
2. The blurb was extremely compelling
However, the reason it took me so long to get through was because this book has an EXTREMELY slow start! This is both a PRO and a CON however, the first three chapters are literally the blurb just expanded. And that's fine, I like to know what I'm reading, however, due to that, the book was fairly predictable.
Normally, I'd give my own summary/blurb however there really isn't more to this one. The summary above is truly a representative microcosm for the book, for better or worse.
Rubric:
Character Like-abilty: 8/10 Louisa was truly a perfect person to read about because she is like-able, relatable and someone you can truly cheer for. My one complaint would be that at times her independence and loyalty towards her sisters' cause the plot to become redundant and stale. (i.e. yes, we get it, you don't trust men. However, instead of forcing out one of the good ones- who has proven he cares for you multiple times- maybe let your guard down.
As for Bray;
He was a fairly stereotypical rogue-turned-gentleman-for-love character. Despite that, he is seen trying to do right by the girls and be a good guardian/brother. One of the reasons that I found him so like-able was that he was honest and real. Never was he seen writing poetry or changing in ASTRONOMICAL ways for Louisa. And truly, that is a rarity that I found completely and utterly refreshing.
"I'm not going to lie to you, Louisa, and tell you I love you. All I know is that I feel differently about you than any other woman. I think about you, I want you, I want to be with you, but I don't know that it's love." Bray, to Louisa in one of the most charming and oddly romantic proposals I have ever witnessed. The quote above is a terrific representation to the tone of the novel.
Character Development: 7/10 Louisa did not change very much throughout the course of the novel. Her values, morals and ideals remained fairly consistent (which is ok, given that they were strong and fueled her like-ability as a character). Her redeeming factor is that she opened up at the end and finally allowed herself to trust Bray.
Bray's development makes up for Louisa's shortcomings in many ways: he went from being the self-declared "only child of two only children" with no clue how to handle children to a "brother"ly influence. I really enjoyed watching him change into someone who could support Louisa and her needs in a husband.
Supporting Characters: 3/10 Yikes. This was a fairly low point in the book, in the terms that the supporting characters felt like fillers (which they are. However it should NEVER feel that way) that were merely inserted when it was
a.) vital to the plot
b.) convenient for the moment
Character's who should have been very important (i.e. Mrs. Colthrust, Gwen, etc.) just popped up as though they were on a schedule. They would completely disappear if it was convenient at that moment in the story.
Plot Development: 4/10 As I previously stated, once you've read the blurb, you basically know the entire story (like most novels), however this book- more than a lot of others- was especially predictable. That being said, the plot was terrific and engaging. If the blurb had been a little less descriptive it would have been absolutely fine. My objection is that I knew the whole story from reading a six hundred word teaser.
Plot: 10/10 For creativity and originality. I can safely say I've never seen anything like this before.
Ending (I put this in a different category as to not hurt the score of the phenomenal plot): 5/10 The ending felt rushed, a rather quick wrap up to three hundred plus pages of drama and intrigue. And although there are times when a story simply needs to end, I wouldn't have minded hearing a bit more. That being said, it was a fine, happy ending that was well deserved. My issue being it was perfectly bland and forgettable.
Sex/Romantic Chemistry: 9/10 They only had sex once, however it was pretty damn hot and thorough. The build-up was very well written. I can really appreciate that because this is Historical Romance, the goal is NOT three hundred pages of them going at it like rabbits, however it's not meant to be some sanitized middle school play devoid of romance. This book got the balance of plot and sex PERFECTLY, I only wish there had been one additional sex scene at the end.
Teasing Additional Books: 1/10 (aka 10/10) As I said, the supporting character game was lacking. And most of the time, that is immensely frustrating. However in the case of teasing other books LESS IS MORE. This book was able to introduce the heroes of the next two books without drawing focus away from the plot. This was executed perfectly.
Conclusion- I am glad that I picked up this book and saw it through. The plot was out of this world, the characters were like-able and it was overall a really good read. I had some issues with this book, it wasn't perfect, however, if you like realistic historical romance this is worth a try. I will definitely keep an eye out for the next two books in this series as I cannot wait to read Adam and Harrison's stories.
Final score- 56/80 aka 70% aka 3.5 out of 5
*Note*- I read this on my phone, and for whatever reason the books I read on my phone tend to get a lower score than their print twins
December 18, 2020
Very cute...
Bray promised a dying friend to watch over his sister's. 5 sister at that.
Once meeting the Prim sisters he's shocked amazed at them all. But drawn to Louise the other promise was to marry Louise.
Lady Louise not going to do that no matter what. Bray not going to beg her. But he can't get her and her sisters out of his mind.
But the more they are around each other the more connection of attraction grows.
Was a cute story. Lacked the romance of the sexual part but was okay. I'll read more by this author.
Bray promised a dying friend to watch over his sister's. 5 sister at that.
Once meeting the Prim sisters he's shocked amazed at them all. But drawn to Louise the other promise was to marry Louise.
Lady Louise not going to do that no matter what. Bray not going to beg her. But he can't get her and her sisters out of his mind.
But the more they are around each other the more connection of attraction grows.
Was a cute story. Lacked the romance of the sexual part but was okay. I'll read more by this author.
March 20, 2022
2.5 stars
Nando's Spice Rating: Wild Herb
Kind of forgettable but I did enjoy this book.
I loved the dynamic between the sisters. The concept was a bit unique but I think it could have played out with a lot more drama.
The ending bothered me a lot since it was rushed and it could've had more complexity. I also thought the romance was a bit lacklustre; there could have been a lot more seduction.
Nando's Spice Rating: Wild Herb
Kind of forgettable but I did enjoy this book.
I loved the dynamic between the sisters. The concept was a bit unique but I think it could have played out with a lot more drama.
The ending bothered me a lot since it was rushed and it could've had more complexity. I also thought the romance was a bit lacklustre; there could have been a lot more seduction.
November 3, 2025
This book could have been good, but the writing style and pace didn't connect with me. It didn't build gradually, there's repeated sentences, not great angst and overall, not my style- sorry to say.
July 30, 2019
Bueno, no fue un mal libro pero tampoco ha sido el mejor de este genero. Super cliché y ese insta-love fue poco creible. Pero al menos me distrajo un poco y salí del bloqueo que me dejo El señor de los Anillos.
2.5
2.5
January 14, 2023
REALLY A 3.75 READ FOR ME
Bray is a duke who has little experience with children, large families or people who are not into gambling, drinking and dealing with wild women.
When he is involved in a race in the fog, his opponent is killed. The man is a friend and as his life ends, he asks that Bray marry his oldest sister and take care of his younger sisters.
Louisa is the eldest sister who Bray is supposed to marry. She has been taking care of her younger sisters and feels a great responsibility to them.
I liked Bray a great deal. He is a good man who was raised by two very well bred people who behaved like Bray was an unimportant part of their lives. He grew up with some good friends but no sense of family or family love. He had a problem with relationships.
Louisa was very difficult for me to like. She talks one way and behaves a completely different way. She was raised by her father, a vicar, but did not learn about trust. Most of all, she did not give Bray an opportunity to learn about what she believed to be important.
I am a fan of Ms Grey and her writing. I liked this book, but was not a fan of Louisa. I have several of Ms Grey’s books on my Kindle and look forward to reading all of them.
Bray is a duke who has little experience with children, large families or people who are not into gambling, drinking and dealing with wild women.
When he is involved in a race in the fog, his opponent is killed. The man is a friend and as his life ends, he asks that Bray marry his oldest sister and take care of his younger sisters.
Louisa is the eldest sister who Bray is supposed to marry. She has been taking care of her younger sisters and feels a great responsibility to them.
I liked Bray a great deal. He is a good man who was raised by two very well bred people who behaved like Bray was an unimportant part of their lives. He grew up with some good friends but no sense of family or family love. He had a problem with relationships.
Louisa was very difficult for me to like. She talks one way and behaves a completely different way. She was raised by her father, a vicar, but did not learn about trust. Most of all, she did not give Bray an opportunity to learn about what she believed to be important.
I am a fan of Ms Grey and her writing. I liked this book, but was not a fan of Louisa. I have several of Ms Grey’s books on my Kindle and look forward to reading all of them.
November 17, 2014
A love romance with a reluctant hero and a lively heroine, The Duke in My Bed was a wonderful historical romance. I really enjoyed this book. It was sweet, romantic, and I really liked it.
Louisa was, for the most part, a really good heroine. She was very protective over her sisters and determined to continue caring for them. She was a mostly great character. However, I did get frustrated with her for a couple of things. First, she was very determined to think the worst of Bray and that became very annoying, very quickly. I could understand her wariness at first but when she got to know him better and see what kind of a person he really was, she still insisted on assuming the worst of him in everything. That leads up to the other issue with her. Because she didn't like Bray, she wanted to have him removed as their guardian and she actually thought it would happen. Seriously? He got them everything they needed, treated all the girls well, and took care of his responsibility to them. There was no court that would consider changing the guardianship. And who would it be given to? Well, she was hoping that judge would actually bother to appoint someone for them. Because, of course, having a strange man be their guardian was better than having a duke who she knew would do right by them, even though she didn't want to admit it. She did realize her mistake in the end, which is why I was able to still like her. But, I did get annoyed with her on more than one occasion.
Bray was a character who changed a lot over the course of the book. He started off as a somewhat selfish rake who did his best to avoid real responsibility. But, as the book went on and he got to know Louisa and her sisters, he did a lot of changing. He showed himself to be a kinder and more patient man than even he knew. I absolutely loved how he was with Louisa's sisters, whom he treated very kindly. I thought he was wonderful.
The romance was good. It was held up a bit because of Louisa, but even her protestations didn't hide the fact that they had feelings for each other from the moment they met. Their romance was sweet with a little spice and I thought it was lovely.
The plot was well paced and kept me interested. Other than my issue with Louisa, I did really enjoy the story and I thought the ending was perfect.
The Duke in My Bed was a delightful historical romance that I really enjoyed. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Louisa was, for the most part, a really good heroine. She was very protective over her sisters and determined to continue caring for them. She was a mostly great character. However, I did get frustrated with her for a couple of things. First, she was very determined to think the worst of Bray and that became very annoying, very quickly. I could understand her wariness at first but when she got to know him better and see what kind of a person he really was, she still insisted on assuming the worst of him in everything. That leads up to the other issue with her. Because she didn't like Bray, she wanted to have him removed as their guardian and she actually thought it would happen. Seriously? He got them everything they needed, treated all the girls well, and took care of his responsibility to them. There was no court that would consider changing the guardianship. And who would it be given to? Well, she was hoping that judge would actually bother to appoint someone for them. Because, of course, having a strange man be their guardian was better than having a duke who she knew would do right by them, even though she didn't want to admit it. She did realize her mistake in the end, which is why I was able to still like her. But, I did get annoyed with her on more than one occasion.
Bray was a character who changed a lot over the course of the book. He started off as a somewhat selfish rake who did his best to avoid real responsibility. But, as the book went on and he got to know Louisa and her sisters, he did a lot of changing. He showed himself to be a kinder and more patient man than even he knew. I absolutely loved how he was with Louisa's sisters, whom he treated very kindly. I thought he was wonderful.
The romance was good. It was held up a bit because of Louisa, but even her protestations didn't hide the fact that they had feelings for each other from the moment they met. Their romance was sweet with a little spice and I thought it was lovely.
The plot was well paced and kept me interested. Other than my issue with Louisa, I did really enjoy the story and I thought the ending was perfect.
The Duke in My Bed was a delightful historical romance that I really enjoyed. Romance lovers, this is a book worth checking out.
*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
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