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Matchmaking Chronicles #0.5
Yule Be My Duke
It was loathe at first sight when Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford five years ago at a party where his ill-conceived prank and irascible temper ruined not one but two of her new gowns. Now, at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek to match them in wedded bliss. However, she has no interest in even speaking with the “Menace,” especially after he spills wine down her bodice, ruining yet another gown.
John has no desire to be paired with the “Shrew” for the Yule log hunt. But if they can suffer each other’s company for a short time, perhaps they can convince their parents that they do not suit. When they’re separated from everyone else and a snowstorm drives them to seek shelter alone in a cottage together, it may not matter what they want.
With marriage all but imminent, can these enemies become lovers by morning?
John has no desire to be paired with the “Shrew” for the Yule log hunt. But if they can suffer each other’s company for a short time, perhaps they can convince their parents that they do not suit. When they’re separated from everyone else and a snowstorm drives them to seek shelter alone in a cottage together, it may not matter what they want.
With marriage all but imminent, can these enemies become lovers by morning?
160 pages, ebook
First published October 3, 2023
223 people are currently reading
156 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Burke
214 books2,282 followersDarcy Burke is the USA Today Bestselling Author of sexy, emotional historical and contemporary romance. Darcy wrote her first book at age 11, a happily ever after about a swan addicted to magic and the female swan who loved him, with exceedingly poor illustrations. Join her Reader Club at http://www.darcyburke.com/readerclub.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her guitar-strumming husband, their two hilarious kids who seem to have inherited the writing gene, two Bengal cats and a third cat named after a fruit. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. Her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
November 2, 2023
Yule Be My Duke was a delightful prequel to the Matchmaking Chronicles set during Christmastime.
Five years ago while attending a house party Cecilia Bromwell took an instant dislike of John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford, when one of his pranks and his quick-temper ruined two of her new gowns. Now while at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek a match between the pair. Cecilia has no interest in even speaking with John but when the pair are separated from everyone else during a snowstorm, the two are forced to seek shelter in a cottage together. With little choice but to marry, can these two really find common ground by morning?
Having read some of the other books in the Matchmaking Chronicles, I have been intrigued by Cecilia and John's romance and wondered about how they ended up together. Set over a decade and a half prior to the first book in the series, we get to see Cecilia and John fall for each other which was wonderful. The pair's first impressions of each other didn't go well and they disliked each other for years because of it. I liked that while there was bad history between them, they didn't dwell on it and actually moved past it fairly quickly. The whole stranded together in a snowstorm bit is actually a plot device I really enjoy in historicals so I loved that aspect of the book. The chemistry between them in that cottage was amazing and I liked how quickly things developed once they were stuck there. I also really enjoyed the banter between them and I liked that they had fun with each other.
Overall Yule Be My Duke was a fantastic read and I would highly recommend it if you're looking for a fun historical romance set during the holidays.
**I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
Five years ago while attending a house party Cecilia Bromwell took an instant dislike of John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford, when one of his pranks and his quick-temper ruined two of her new gowns. Now while at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek a match between the pair. Cecilia has no interest in even speaking with John but when the pair are separated from everyone else during a snowstorm, the two are forced to seek shelter in a cottage together. With little choice but to marry, can these two really find common ground by morning?
Having read some of the other books in the Matchmaking Chronicles, I have been intrigued by Cecilia and John's romance and wondered about how they ended up together. Set over a decade and a half prior to the first book in the series, we get to see Cecilia and John fall for each other which was wonderful. The pair's first impressions of each other didn't go well and they disliked each other for years because of it. I liked that while there was bad history between them, they didn't dwell on it and actually moved past it fairly quickly. The whole stranded together in a snowstorm bit is actually a plot device I really enjoy in historicals so I loved that aspect of the book. The chemistry between them in that cottage was amazing and I liked how quickly things developed once they were stuck there. I also really enjoyed the banter between them and I liked that they had fun with each other.
Overall Yule Be My Duke was a fantastic read and I would highly recommend it if you're looking for a fun historical romance set during the holidays.
**I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.**
October 1, 2023
3.5 stars
Cecilia met John at a party but after a certain mishappen pranks loathe each other. Shes the Shrew and he the Menace. 5 years later as the only single couple at a Yuletide house party, they meet again. both their father's are having hopes to arrange them in marriage. They both are aware but at least they'll try so then they can tell their parents they don't suit. Well as the search for the largest Yule log begins...a heavy snow storm appears in the forest and neither one of them are good with directions at all. They end up in a one room cabin. I thought this was a quick read for a bit of a touch of a holiday novella, but I think there needs to be more chemistry between the Cecilia and John.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Cecilia met John at a party but after a certain mishappen pranks loathe each other. Shes the Shrew and he the Menace. 5 years later as the only single couple at a Yuletide house party, they meet again. both their father's are having hopes to arrange them in marriage. They both are aware but at least they'll try so then they can tell their parents they don't suit. Well as the search for the largest Yule log begins...a heavy snow storm appears in the forest and neither one of them are good with directions at all. They end up in a one room cabin. I thought this was a quick read for a bit of a touch of a holiday novella, but I think there needs to be more chemistry between the Cecilia and John.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 10, 2023
'It was loathe at first sight when Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford five years ago at a party where his ill-conceived prank and irascible temper ruined not one but two of her new gowns. Now, at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek to match them in wedded bliss. However, she has no interest in even speaking with the “Menace,” especially after he spills wine down her bodice, ruining yet another gown.
John has no desire to be paired with the “Shrew” for the Yule log hunt. But if they can suffer each other’s company for a short time, perhaps they can convince their parents that they do not suit. When they’re separated from everyone else and a snowstorm drives them to seek shelter alone in a cottage together, it may not matter what they want.
With marriage all but imminent, can these enemies become lovers by morning?'
_______________________
Yule Be My Duke is the prequel novella to Darcy Burke’s Matchmaking Chronicles novella series and takes place 16 years prior to the events of novella one in the series.
I initially read this novella as part of the Duke In A Box holiday novella anthology that came out during the holiday season last year and was one of my favorites of the novellas included. So this is technically a reread, but I saw that it was being released again as an independent novella and that it had been added to slightly so I knew I’d have to read it again. Sometimes add-ons can be to the detriment of the story, but not so here. A decent amount of time has gone by since I initially read the novella so I could be fuzzy on the details, but I felt that it was fleshed out seamlessly and everything flowed nicely with the additions.
This was a great quick read and it was really nice to see Cecelia and John, both great characters, before they were a couple and before the events of the other novellas in the series. At the house party that brought them together and was an encouragement to host the house parties they would years later. I would recommend this novella and even though it is a prequel, it can be read independently. I'm looking forward to reading the next novella to come in this series.
_____
I would like to thank the author herself, Darcy Burke, for sharing an eARC of her novella, Yule Be My Duke. This is my honest review.
John has no desire to be paired with the “Shrew” for the Yule log hunt. But if they can suffer each other’s company for a short time, perhaps they can convince their parents that they do not suit. When they’re separated from everyone else and a snowstorm drives them to seek shelter alone in a cottage together, it may not matter what they want.
With marriage all but imminent, can these enemies become lovers by morning?'
_______________________
Yule Be My Duke is the prequel novella to Darcy Burke’s Matchmaking Chronicles novella series and takes place 16 years prior to the events of novella one in the series.
I initially read this novella as part of the Duke In A Box holiday novella anthology that came out during the holiday season last year and was one of my favorites of the novellas included. So this is technically a reread, but I saw that it was being released again as an independent novella and that it had been added to slightly so I knew I’d have to read it again. Sometimes add-ons can be to the detriment of the story, but not so here. A decent amount of time has gone by since I initially read the novella so I could be fuzzy on the details, but I felt that it was fleshed out seamlessly and everything flowed nicely with the additions.
This was a great quick read and it was really nice to see Cecelia and John, both great characters, before they were a couple and before the events of the other novellas in the series. At the house party that brought them together and was an encouragement to host the house parties they would years later. I would recommend this novella and even though it is a prequel, it can be read independently. I'm looking forward to reading the next novella to come in this series.
_____
I would like to thank the author herself, Darcy Burke, for sharing an eARC of her novella, Yule Be My Duke. This is my honest review.
October 2, 2023
It was “hate at first sight” for Cecilia and John. At least, until her plan to get even with him for yet another spilled drink goes sideways, stranding them alone together when the weather cut them off from the rest of their party. Will these two come out of this experience with a better understanding of one another, or will only one of them make it out alive? I have been loving the Matchmaking Chronicles, so to come back to the beginning and learn how it all started has been a lot of fun. The snark and sass these two are able to throw at each other kept me laughing all while I watched them lower their defenses and really get to know one another. Now that I’ve come back to where it all began, I think I need to give the whole series a re-read.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book through NetGalley.
I received a complimentary advance copy of this book through NetGalley.
November 13, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this novella and this is my freely given opinion.
This was a fun, adorable enemies to lovers, forced proximity, Christmas themed love story that was a prequel story to the Matchmaking Chronicles series.
Cecilia met John, the Earl of Cosford, 5 years prior when they were silly teenagers at a house party with their friends. Unfortunately John perpetrated a prank aimed at his friends that unfortunately caught Cecilia and her friend in it's midst. In a series of tit for tat and mishaps, each subsequent meeting lead to more destroyed dresses on Cecilia's part and a mutual loathing.
Unfortunately in December 1786, Cecilia is once again at Broadheath for a house party with her married friends, and her mother. However, it is obvious there are marital manipulations at play with their parents attempting to match Cecilia with the only other single person at the party, John. Cecilia plots a scheme to prove they are not a good match and to embarrass John, which backfires and leads to them being stuck in a remote cottage during a snowstorm, leading to their compromise.
But the forced time together leads also to their learning more about each other and a fast development of a mutual attraction and attachment.
This was a fun fast paced romance with some fun steam and a bit of comedy that was quite fun to read.
4.25 stars out of 5
This was a fun, adorable enemies to lovers, forced proximity, Christmas themed love story that was a prequel story to the Matchmaking Chronicles series.
Cecilia met John, the Earl of Cosford, 5 years prior when they were silly teenagers at a house party with their friends. Unfortunately John perpetrated a prank aimed at his friends that unfortunately caught Cecilia and her friend in it's midst. In a series of tit for tat and mishaps, each subsequent meeting lead to more destroyed dresses on Cecilia's part and a mutual loathing.
Unfortunately in December 1786, Cecilia is once again at Broadheath for a house party with her married friends, and her mother. However, it is obvious there are marital manipulations at play with their parents attempting to match Cecilia with the only other single person at the party, John. Cecilia plots a scheme to prove they are not a good match and to embarrass John, which backfires and leads to them being stuck in a remote cottage during a snowstorm, leading to their compromise.
But the forced time together leads also to their learning more about each other and a fast development of a mutual attraction and attachment.
This was a fun fast paced romance with some fun steam and a bit of comedy that was quite fun to read.
4.25 stars out of 5
September 26, 2023
First off, I would like to thank NetGalley for introducing me to one of the best authors (for me!) of historical romances. Every time I see her arc, I would immediately request for it and thank you for approving it, of course.
Anyway, this was OK for me. Maybe because this was a prequel to all other books that I haven't read yet and didn't really appreciate it for its purpose. Maybe they had other interactions on other books, I don't know. After reading some historical romances lately that felt like a chore, this was a breath of fresh air. Very easy to read, enjoyable plot, and has funny characters. The spice on this was also on point. I would have loved to read an extended version of this but this in itself if great.
Thanks to NetGalley and Zealous Quill Press for this ARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. #YuleBeMyDuke #NetGalley #ZealousQuillPress #DarcyBurke
Anyway, this was OK for me. Maybe because this was a prequel to all other books that I haven't read yet and didn't really appreciate it for its purpose. Maybe they had other interactions on other books, I don't know. After reading some historical romances lately that felt like a chore, this was a breath of fresh air. Very easy to read, enjoyable plot, and has funny characters. The spice on this was also on point. I would have loved to read an extended version of this but this in itself if great.
Thanks to NetGalley and Zealous Quill Press for this ARC in exchange for my honest and unbiased opinion. #YuleBeMyDuke #NetGalley #ZealousQuillPress #DarcyBurke
October 2, 2023
It was loathe at first sight when Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford five years ago at a party where his ill-conceived prank and irascible temper ruined not one but two of her new gowns. Now, at a Yuletide house party, Cecilia learns their parents seek to match them in wedded bliss. John has no desire to be paired with the “Shrew” for the Yule log hunt.
This engrossing novella featured in The Duke in a Box anthology . I loved both John & Cecelia & as they feature heavily in the Matchmaking Chronicles I was delighted to read how they met. Enemies to lovers is my favourite trope & this novella ticked all the boxes for me. I loved it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This engrossing novella featured in The Duke in a Box anthology . I loved both John & Cecelia & as they feature heavily in the Matchmaking Chronicles I was delighted to read how they met. Enemies to lovers is my favourite trope & this novella ticked all the boxes for me. I loved it
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 31, 2023
2.5*
Cecilia and John hate each other. They met 5 years ago and their meeting was a disaster after John played a prank on her and ruined a few dresses. She got him back. She calls John "the Menace" and he calls her "the Shrew." Now their parents are discussing an engagement between the 2.
Things change after they spend a night together (alone) seeking shelter from a snow storm. While both characters are likable enough, I thought they lacked chemistry and I found the romance a bit lacking. I just couldn't believe the turnaround after one night.
Cecilia and John hate each other. They met 5 years ago and their meeting was a disaster after John played a prank on her and ruined a few dresses. She got him back. She calls John "the Menace" and he calls her "the Shrew." Now their parents are discussing an engagement between the 2.
Things change after they spend a night together (alone) seeking shelter from a snow storm. While both characters are likable enough, I thought they lacked chemistry and I found the romance a bit lacking. I just couldn't believe the turnaround after one night.
October 2, 2023
This is my first book by this author and I quite liked it. It is very quick read as it is a novella. Cecilia and John met a few years ago and at a house party and became enemies. Their parents are trying to force them together 5 years later, and Cecilia has come up with the plan to win the war. However, the plan goes a wry and they end up falling in love. It’s steamy and sweet. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
May 5, 2025
4/5 stars! This is a sweet holiday prequel novel by author Darcy Burke and the first installment in the Matchmaking Chronicles series. This is Cecilia and John's love story. This is a historical romance packed with chemistry. I did wish their dislike had held out a bit longer as it shifted quickly to love, but a fun read.
January 2, 2024
"I don't know what falling in love feels like, but being with you right now is like nothing I've ever known. You've turned me from utter loathing to abject longing. If I were never to see you again after this, I think I might fall apart."
Eeeek, they are so cute! Such a shame that this is only a novella, as they deserve a slow-burn, full length novel 🥺 My only complaint is that they went from enemies to lovers a little bit too quickly...
I'm also very glad to find out I have an entire series following this prequel ready for me to dive into!
September 26, 2023
This was a quick and lovely read. Unfortunately, everything moved a bit too quickly for my taste, and they never really felt like an enemies-to-lovers kind of relationship, especially since they hadn't seen each other for five whole years.
All in all, it was cute to read their banter and they were well-matched, both in wits and passion.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
All in all, it was cute to read their banter and they were well-matched, both in wits and passion.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2023
Cecilia and John hate one another.. He's a menace and she's a shrew but Fate and mutual attraction have other plans for the pair. A short but fun page turner leaving you wanting to know more about Cecilia and John's friends as well as the family matchmaking legend. This was an entertaining romantic, sexy and enjoyable read. I received a copy from NetGalley and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 19, 2023
Cecilia and John, Earl of Cosford, got off on the wrong foot when they met five years ago but now their parents are most desirous of a match between them. Neither party is willing to agree to such a marriage, but when a yule log hunt leaves them stranded together in a snowstorm, the decision is very much out of their hands.
This is the most immature pair of MCs I’ve read in some time, but that made them a good match. They spent most of this novella at each other’s throats, holding grudges over slights that occurred five years previously, when they were both children, and their feelings for one another changed literally overnight in a case of forced proximity instalove. I was not the biggest fan of John or Cecilia to be honest, but their chemistry was clear, even if it wasn’t always a positive thing, and I liked the use of the only one bed, stranded in a storm trope. Their connection did seem a bit tenuous to be permanent, true love, but this was a cute story to get into the winter mood.
This is the most immature pair of MCs I’ve read in some time, but that made them a good match. They spent most of this novella at each other’s throats, holding grudges over slights that occurred five years previously, when they were both children, and their feelings for one another changed literally overnight in a case of forced proximity instalove. I was not the biggest fan of John or Cecilia to be honest, but their chemistry was clear, even if it wasn’t always a positive thing, and I liked the use of the only one bed, stranded in a storm trope. Their connection did seem a bit tenuous to be permanent, true love, but this was a cute story to get into the winter mood.
January 5, 2024
Really short but fun seasonal romance very well done enemy to lovers trope /story
September 21, 2023
Second times the charm, when revising first impressions!
A heartmelting, enemies to lovers romance, that entraps 'the Menace' with 'the Shrew' in deliciously close, steamy proximity.
One misguided childish prank cascades out of proportion as misinterpretations lead to retaliation and leaves the bitter tang of animosity and loathing, seething in its wake. Now five years later, John and Cecilia's fathers plan to bring about their match, contrived over the festive season. Can fate, one wild snow storm and a begrudging truce melt their frosty first impressions? I really did enjoy finding out.
Especially, as admiration built reluctant friendship and awkwardness peeked through the rising heat of attraction as longing seeded a passion that flared and sparked hot...and soooo deliciously steamy!
To create a fun filled romance that simmered with chemistry and lighthearted humour that shifted to hum with a sweet vulnerability under the teasing and heady intimacy as the pair came to realise that the passionate loathing of a teenager can so quickly and all consumingly turn into passionate desire and devotion, if only they take the time to connect and see the kindhearted, considerate people that reside beneath the facades of the Menace and the Shrew.
I must say this revised version crafts a much more statisfying, immeasurably more rewarding ending than the original. A one the couple truly deserve that's not hindered or shadowed by the gloom and doom of a father - as her father very much redeemed himself in my eyes as I no longer wished to violently shake some sense into the man like I did in the DUKE IN A BOX anthology. Burke has added a deeper intensity of love, warmth and the joyous pleasure of togetherness into the mix that I just didn't realise was missing in the original. That leaves you feeling uplifted and sighing with contentment! Where the additional scenes create such a beautiful snapshot of their happy, I-still-can't-keep-my-hands-off-you, blissful family life that far surpasses their first impressions and expectations. As well as tying in seemlessly as a prequel to the Matchmaking Chronicles series that I'm rather tempted to reread the series all over again!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
A heartmelting, enemies to lovers romance, that entraps 'the Menace' with 'the Shrew' in deliciously close, steamy proximity.
One misguided childish prank cascades out of proportion as misinterpretations lead to retaliation and leaves the bitter tang of animosity and loathing, seething in its wake. Now five years later, John and Cecilia's fathers plan to bring about their match, contrived over the festive season. Can fate, one wild snow storm and a begrudging truce melt their frosty first impressions? I really did enjoy finding out.
Especially, as admiration built reluctant friendship and awkwardness peeked through the rising heat of attraction as longing seeded a passion that flared and sparked hot...and soooo deliciously steamy!
To create a fun filled romance that simmered with chemistry and lighthearted humour that shifted to hum with a sweet vulnerability under the teasing and heady intimacy as the pair came to realise that the passionate loathing of a teenager can so quickly and all consumingly turn into passionate desire and devotion, if only they take the time to connect and see the kindhearted, considerate people that reside beneath the facades of the Menace and the Shrew.
I must say this revised version crafts a much more statisfying, immeasurably more rewarding ending than the original. A one the couple truly deserve that's not hindered or shadowed by the gloom and doom of a father - as her father very much redeemed himself in my eyes as I no longer wished to violently shake some sense into the man like I did in the DUKE IN A BOX anthology. Burke has added a deeper intensity of love, warmth and the joyous pleasure of togetherness into the mix that I just didn't realise was missing in the original. That leaves you feeling uplifted and sighing with contentment! Where the additional scenes create such a beautiful snapshot of their happy, I-still-can't-keep-my-hands-off-you, blissful family life that far surpasses their first impressions and expectations. As well as tying in seemlessly as a prequel to the Matchmaking Chronicles series that I'm rather tempted to reread the series all over again!
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
September 28, 2023
Yule Be My Duke is super charming! It is a prequel, set at least 15 years before the rest of the Matchmaking Chronicles series. In the Matchmaking Chronicles, John and Cecilia, Lord and Lady Cosford are the hosts of matchmaking house parties. Yule Be My Duke is John and Cecilia's love story! Cecilia is a feisty, spirited young woman-- who holds grudges for a long time. John is an earl, an heir in line for a dukedom. He is just back from his grand tour and meets Cecilia again at a house party. The house party has been put together to arrange for John and Cecilia to meet and marry. At least that is what their parents want. John and Cecilia do not. John thinks Cecilia is a shrew, Cecilia nicknames John Menace. Five years previously, through misunderstandings, youthful pranks and stubbornness, they become enemies. This novella has a lot of tropes that I love-- house parties, enemies-to-lovers and lost overnight in a cabin. So so good! There's a lot of good dialogue-- Darcy Burke does such a good job with it! John and Cecilia's chemistry is great. This takes place over the holidays, but I don't think it is too Christmas-y. There's mention of Christmas and of course there is a yule log hunt, but since it isn't in a holiday anthology the time of year is but a season (and way to move the plot forward). I believe Yule Be My Duke appeared first in an anthology, but this edition is extended and for the better! There's also some background on why Cecilia loves having house parties to match up their friends. I loved the additions to the novella and it really made the story whole! Also, the epilogue answers some questions I had from the other books in the series. I really recommend this book, it is cute and fun and a great fast read!!!
November 4, 2023
“Yule Be My Duke” by Darcy Burke was a fun read. The couple in question is John Rowley, Earl of Cosford and Miss Cecilia Bromwell who met well before the current house party with confrontations leading each to nickname the other. Cecilia thereafter called the Earl, and heir to a dukedom, the Menace while he referred to Cecilia as a Shrew. Their pranks were not well received and still foremost in their minds. They wanted nothing to do with each other during the current house party. However, their parents are promoting and arranging a match between the Menace and the Shrew. John and Cecilia are teamed up to hunt for the largest Yule log. A snowstorm forces them to shelter in a small cabin somewhere in the woods. This forced proximity changed the course of their lives. They talked, they touched, they kissed and at each level they realized they wanted more. Cecilia was not shy, she was forthcoming with her wants, surprising and pleasing John. They both knew they were compromised and marriage was inevitable, but that inevitability was now welcome. The story was an easy, fast paced read. The two main characters seemed a bit childish at first but they matured as their relationship progressed and they embraced their compatibility. Once they crossed the lined into a sexual relationship there was no turning back. This was definitely a light Christmas read with no nefarious plots to unveil or buried secrets to uncover. There was no antagonist to thwart the progression of the couple’s relationship. There was only John and Cecilia coming to terms and deciding their future. I do recommend this for Regency romance lovers who want a fast read with plenty of spice to keep it going to the end. I was given this book by NetGallery, my thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 19, 2023
In " Unerwartetes Weihnachtsglück (Chroniken der Ehestiftung 1) " stand die erste Begegnung auf einer Hausparty zwischen der jungen Lady Cecilia und John Rowley, dem jungen Earl of Cosford unter keinem guten Stern. Denn in diesem Zuge ruinierte John Cecilia gleich zwei ihrer Kleidern und dies trägt Cecilia ihm auch fünf Jahre später noch nach.
Nun steht kurz vor Weihnachten wieder eine Hausparty an und bei dieser sollen Lady Cecilia und John von deren Eltern zum heiraten animiert werden, sehr zu beiderseitigem Missfallens.
Deswegen plant Cecilia bei der gemeinsamen Suche nach dem Weihnachtsscheit, John loszuwerden. Allerdings ohne großen Erfolg.
Stattdessen werden beide von einem Schneesturm überrascht und finden in einer Hütte im Wald Unterschlupf. Was jedoch für Cecilia und John den Umstand mit sich bringt, nun heiraten zu müssen, da sie ohne Anstandsdame alleine sind.
So vergeht Cecilia Hoffnung, einmal aus Liebe zu heiraten. Denn ob eine Nacht ausreicht, um plötzlich Liebe zueinander zu empfinden sei fraglich. Oder etwa doch?
Werden Lady Cecilia und John, der Earl of Cosford genug zugetan sein, um eine glückliche Zukunft miteinander zu bekommen? Oder ist ihre Abneigung zueinander stärker als die Hoffnung nach Liebe?
Die Story lässt sich leicht und flüssig lesen, bleibt dabei abwechslungsreich sowie spannungsgeladen. Man darf mit Cecilia und John mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, so manche mitfühlende Momente und die ein oder andere Träne zu vergießen.
Da ich erfahren wollte, ob und wie es für beide ein Happy End gab, musste ich das Buch nicht mehr aus der Hand legen.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.
Nun steht kurz vor Weihnachten wieder eine Hausparty an und bei dieser sollen Lady Cecilia und John von deren Eltern zum heiraten animiert werden, sehr zu beiderseitigem Missfallens.
Deswegen plant Cecilia bei der gemeinsamen Suche nach dem Weihnachtsscheit, John loszuwerden. Allerdings ohne großen Erfolg.
Stattdessen werden beide von einem Schneesturm überrascht und finden in einer Hütte im Wald Unterschlupf. Was jedoch für Cecilia und John den Umstand mit sich bringt, nun heiraten zu müssen, da sie ohne Anstandsdame alleine sind.
So vergeht Cecilia Hoffnung, einmal aus Liebe zu heiraten. Denn ob eine Nacht ausreicht, um plötzlich Liebe zueinander zu empfinden sei fraglich. Oder etwa doch?
Werden Lady Cecilia und John, der Earl of Cosford genug zugetan sein, um eine glückliche Zukunft miteinander zu bekommen? Oder ist ihre Abneigung zueinander stärker als die Hoffnung nach Liebe?
Die Story lässt sich leicht und flüssig lesen, bleibt dabei abwechslungsreich sowie spannungsgeladen. Man darf mit Cecilia und John mitfiebern und die verschiedesten Emotionen erleben. Es gibt einiges zum schmunzeln bis herzhaft zu lachen, so manche mitfühlende Momente und die ein oder andere Träne zu vergießen.
Da ich erfahren wollte, ob und wie es für beide ein Happy End gab, musste ich das Buch nicht mehr aus der Hand legen.
Das Buch bekommt von mir eine Lese / Kaufempfehlung und 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Sterne.
September 30, 2023
I’ve read this book before; it was in the “Duke in a Box’” Anthology last year. I loved it then and more now. Darcy has updated it and it’s even more of a fun read. What could possibly go wrong when two enemies are paired up by their parents? Neither Cecilia nor John have spoken in five years. They met at a garden party when she was just thirteen and he was fifteen. Every time he was around her, he did something Wong. Like ruin not one but three of her new gowns! As if that was not bad enough while staging a prank on his guy friends, she gets it instead and is ducked in the pond! Menace. She gets even by ruining his favorite boots. John knows she is a Shrew and will never marry her. Now both their parents want them to get married, never. Neither want that so they decide to play nice when they are paired up to search for the Yule log. Then they both can tell their parents neither wants the other. But mother nature gets involved sending a Hugh snowstorm right at our couple that had gotten separated from the group. Now what could happen to our couple when they find shelter in a small shed, with only one blanket and one bed? What a quick and amusing story, I love it and never get tired of rereading it. This couple is so much fun, with their nicknames for each other. There is a lot of forgiving needed, secrets to uncover and pride to overcome. Don’t miss this new updated copy as the author has some Surprises for you!! I have read a ton of Darcy’s books and never been disappointed. I received an ARC from the author and wish to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am freely giving it.
October 3, 2023
I received an ARC from the author as part of her Review Team and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
The Matchmaking Chronicles is one of my favorite Darcy Burke series, and I’ve enjoyed pretty much every installment. This prequel, Yule Be My Duke, an expanded edition of a story previously published in an anthology, is no exception. I loved how it gave some backstory for the supporting characters from the rest of the Matchmaking Chronicles, Cecilia and John, and how they themselves were the targets of matchmaking shenanigans.
The premise of the book itself did give me a bit of pause, because it struck me initially as a bit too close to a potential former bully situation, which doesn’t make the best romance in my opinion without severe introspection. And while I was still a bit annoyed at what it actually was, which was two people remembering the misunderstandings and pranks of when they were petulant teenagers, the story grew on me from there. The important thing for me was that they each had silly misconceptions about the other that left an impression due to the rashness of youth, and the second impression, once they had gotten over the pettiness of their shared past, showed how they’d each improved over the years. There’s great rivals-to-lovers banter, and the chemistry between them as they’re forced to depend on one another when they find themselves separated from the rest of the party and stranded together feels believable.
This is a fun, short read, and one I’d recommend for historical romance readers looking for a quick holiday read.
The Matchmaking Chronicles is one of my favorite Darcy Burke series, and I’ve enjoyed pretty much every installment. This prequel, Yule Be My Duke, an expanded edition of a story previously published in an anthology, is no exception. I loved how it gave some backstory for the supporting characters from the rest of the Matchmaking Chronicles, Cecilia and John, and how they themselves were the targets of matchmaking shenanigans.
The premise of the book itself did give me a bit of pause, because it struck me initially as a bit too close to a potential former bully situation, which doesn’t make the best romance in my opinion without severe introspection. And while I was still a bit annoyed at what it actually was, which was two people remembering the misunderstandings and pranks of when they were petulant teenagers, the story grew on me from there. The important thing for me was that they each had silly misconceptions about the other that left an impression due to the rashness of youth, and the second impression, once they had gotten over the pettiness of their shared past, showed how they’d each improved over the years. There’s great rivals-to-lovers banter, and the chemistry between them as they’re forced to depend on one another when they find themselves separated from the rest of the party and stranded together feels believable.
This is a fun, short read, and one I’d recommend for historical romance readers looking for a quick holiday read.
October 3, 2023
4.25 STARS
This story has 30% added content from when it was published in an Anthology called DUKE IN MY BOX. I gave it 5 stars in the anthology. This had more descriptive lovemaking and at times seemed more lustful than romantic. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 5 out of 5.
Our MC met 5 years prior and things didn't go smoothly to put it mildly. He starts a prank to be against his friends, but instead it is against the h and her friend. Things don't improve from that point. Now they're at a house party and discover their parents want them to wed. They can't stand each other, so we are off to a very bumpy road to HEA.
They end up stranded in a cottage due to a snowstorm, and things start to heat up. They decide to listen to each other about what happened 5 years prior. One thing leads to another and they make love and are discovered the next day by their fathers and others.
I was somewhat confused by the way the h's father acted. He originally didn't care his daughter didn't want to marry the H, he wanted her too. But, after they are found in the cottage, he has a major dislike for the H.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and steam. You have to download an extended epilogue, which signs you up for author's newsletter. The extended epilogue is worth downloading. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase this or not.
I received ARC from Bookfunnel and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
This story has 30% added content from when it was published in an Anthology called DUKE IN MY BOX. I gave it 5 stars in the anthology. This had more descriptive lovemaking and at times seemed more lustful than romantic. Lovemaking outside of marriage - heat level 5 out of 5.
Our MC met 5 years prior and things didn't go smoothly to put it mildly. He starts a prank to be against his friends, but instead it is against the h and her friend. Things don't improve from that point. Now they're at a house party and discover their parents want them to wed. They can't stand each other, so we are off to a very bumpy road to HEA.
They end up stranded in a cottage due to a snowstorm, and things start to heat up. They decide to listen to each other about what happened 5 years prior. One thing leads to another and they make love and are discovered the next day by their fathers and others.
I was somewhat confused by the way the h's father acted. He originally didn't care his daughter didn't want to marry the H, he wanted her too. But, after they are found in the cottage, he has a major dislike for the H.
No cheating, no cliffhanger, HEA, some romance and steam. You have to download an extended epilogue, which signs you up for author's newsletter. The extended epilogue is worth downloading. I can't improve on the blurb, just giving you some extra tidbits to decide whether to purchase this or not.
I received ARC from Bookfunnel and all opinions are my own and freely given. (ljb)
October 2, 2023
Lord John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford, aka " the menace", has been the bane of one woman's existence. He may be a pill, but he is a particularly attractive one.
Miss Celia Bromwell, the last of her group of friends who remains as yet unwed, is that woman. She also has parents who wish to see her single status end.
Consequently, a holiday house party is arranged at the country home of one of Celia's friends, and the "games" begin.
The story has moments of humor when the characters reminisce over the previous meetings between John and Celia and the pranks that they pulled on each other, a few that may well have crossed the line of civility.
While it has been a few years since their last meeting, it appears that their parents wish them to marry each other, a horror neither of them chooses to even consider.
When the group embarks on an outdoor group activity and Celia's plan for revenge goes awry, she and John end up trapped in a games keeper's cottage during a snowstorm, overnight alone. This is where a different set of "games" begin.
This story is funny and has some definite heat. It was previously in a "DUKE In A Box Holiday Romance Collection" last year, which I also enjoyed, but this story has been expanded with three additional bonus scenes. It is an easy, relaxing tale that had this reader chuckling throughout. It's perfect for an afternoon read.
I enjoyed it and the expanded content.
I read this as an arc, but my opinions are my own.
Miss Celia Bromwell, the last of her group of friends who remains as yet unwed, is that woman. She also has parents who wish to see her single status end.
Consequently, a holiday house party is arranged at the country home of one of Celia's friends, and the "games" begin.
The story has moments of humor when the characters reminisce over the previous meetings between John and Celia and the pranks that they pulled on each other, a few that may well have crossed the line of civility.
While it has been a few years since their last meeting, it appears that their parents wish them to marry each other, a horror neither of them chooses to even consider.
When the group embarks on an outdoor group activity and Celia's plan for revenge goes awry, she and John end up trapped in a games keeper's cottage during a snowstorm, overnight alone. This is where a different set of "games" begin.
This story is funny and has some definite heat. It was previously in a "DUKE In A Box Holiday Romance Collection" last year, which I also enjoyed, but this story has been expanded with three additional bonus scenes. It is an easy, relaxing tale that had this reader chuckling throughout. It's perfect for an afternoon read.
I enjoyed it and the expanded content.
I read this as an arc, but my opinions are my own.
October 15, 2023
Some tropes for this delicious novella:
- snowed in / forced proximity
- house party setting
- low stakes enemies to lovers
- kissing lessons <3
- only one blanket and only one bed
This was such a great wintery historical romance novella! I found it to be the perfect level of enemies to lovers for a historical setting -- very low stakes "enemies" in a childhood pranks-gone-wrong sort of way. When Cecilia attempts another prank on John while they are paired together to search for a yule log at a wintery house party, her plan backfires in a big way.
The romance came on rather quickly, but was actually very sweet. I appreciated Cecilia and John's frankness with each other and their willingness to put their childhood pettiness aside. The scene at the tenant couple's house was immensely sweet to watch, as was seeing how quickly John feels protective over Cecilia. I appreciated that their love wasn't proclaimed to each other immediately and that each took their time to assess their own feelings.
All in all, this was a great historical romance with a wintery setting and several spicy scenes. The length of the novella was perfect - it felt delightfully long for a novella, but did not drag on to the length of a full novel. I will definitely read more of Darcy Burke in the future when I'm in the mood for more spicy historical romances.
Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for a review copy of this book!
- snowed in / forced proximity
- house party setting
- low stakes enemies to lovers
- kissing lessons <3
- only one blanket and only one bed
This was such a great wintery historical romance novella! I found it to be the perfect level of enemies to lovers for a historical setting -- very low stakes "enemies" in a childhood pranks-gone-wrong sort of way. When Cecilia attempts another prank on John while they are paired together to search for a yule log at a wintery house party, her plan backfires in a big way.
The romance came on rather quickly, but was actually very sweet. I appreciated Cecilia and John's frankness with each other and their willingness to put their childhood pettiness aside. The scene at the tenant couple's house was immensely sweet to watch, as was seeing how quickly John feels protective over Cecilia. I appreciated that their love wasn't proclaimed to each other immediately and that each took their time to assess their own feelings.
All in all, this was a great historical romance with a wintery setting and several spicy scenes. The length of the novella was perfect - it felt delightfully long for a novella, but did not drag on to the length of a full novel. I will definitely read more of Darcy Burke in the future when I'm in the mood for more spicy historical romances.
Thanks to the publisher and to Netgalley for a review copy of this book!
September 27, 2023
Yule Be My Duke is a prequel novella to the Matchmaking Chronicles series. This book kind of sets up the background of why Cecelia considers herself to be a matchmaker. Cecelia attends a house party with her newly married friends and finds that her parents are trying to set her up with John, the Earl of Cosford. There is one glaring problem with this match. They hate each other. Five years ago they went back and forth playing pranks and ruining each others items. They not so fondly refer to each other as "the menace" and "the shrew." After an ill conceived plan, they become stranded in a snowstorm and are forced to really get to know one another.
This had a cute set up but ultimately, both the hero and heroine were a bit too immature for my liking. That should be expected though because they were only 20 and 23. It was definitely an instalust/love book. It kind of has to be at novella length. They spend twelve hours together and end up professing their love. This one was just okay. I didn't really find the pranks funny. Burke's writing is so readable and easy. I absolutely recommend the Matchmaking Chronicles as a whole. You can read them without reading this but its quick so I probably wouldn't skip it.
Tropes: enemies to lovers, house party, only one bed, snowed in, forced proximity, prank wars, prequel, compromised
Thank you to NetGalley, Darcy Burke, and Zealous Quill Press for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #zealousquillpress #YuleBeMyDuke #MatchmakingChronicles
This had a cute set up but ultimately, both the hero and heroine were a bit too immature for my liking. That should be expected though because they were only 20 and 23. It was definitely an instalust/love book. It kind of has to be at novella length. They spend twelve hours together and end up professing their love. This one was just okay. I didn't really find the pranks funny. Burke's writing is so readable and easy. I absolutely recommend the Matchmaking Chronicles as a whole. You can read them without reading this but its quick so I probably wouldn't skip it.
Tropes: enemies to lovers, house party, only one bed, snowed in, forced proximity, prank wars, prequel, compromised
Thank you to NetGalley, Darcy Burke, and Zealous Quill Press for this eARC. All opinions expressed are my own. #netgalley #zealousquillpress #YuleBeMyDuke #MatchmakingChronicles
September 27, 2023
This little gem had everything a good Christmas novella ought to have, at least to me: humour, steam and snow with just the right amount of warm and fuzzy! 🎄❄🔥💫💝🍀
You may already know of it since it was a part of last year’s Duke in a Box anthology. And if you don’t, I highly recommend it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
She’s Cecilia Bromwell, daughter to the baron Winchcombe.
He’s John Rowley, Earl of Cosford and heir to the Duke of Ironbridge.
They first met at a house party where one of his impulsive pranks went terribly wrong and she had her sweet revenge which he returned with equal vigour. Ever since she loathed him and dubbed him ‘the menace’. He repaid the kindness by dubbing her ‘the shrew’.
Same country estate, different house party five years later. Their parents having decided they would make an excellent match, they both find themselves the only unattached attendants amongst the married couples and both determined to convince their parents they don’t suit.
In a clumsy moment he spills a glass of wine on her, and as a revenge she plans to lose him the very next day in the woods. Only she hadn’t factored fresh snow and his total lack of orientation into her plan. Trapped in a cosy cottage in the woods during a snowstorm, they soon discover there’s indeed a very fine line between love and hate…
You may already know of it since it was a part of last year’s Duke in a Box anthology. And if you don’t, I highly recommend it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨
She’s Cecilia Bromwell, daughter to the baron Winchcombe.
He’s John Rowley, Earl of Cosford and heir to the Duke of Ironbridge.
They first met at a house party where one of his impulsive pranks went terribly wrong and she had her sweet revenge which he returned with equal vigour. Ever since she loathed him and dubbed him ‘the menace’. He repaid the kindness by dubbing her ‘the shrew’.
Same country estate, different house party five years later. Their parents having decided they would make an excellent match, they both find themselves the only unattached attendants amongst the married couples and both determined to convince their parents they don’t suit.
In a clumsy moment he spills a glass of wine on her, and as a revenge she plans to lose him the very next day in the woods. Only she hadn’t factored fresh snow and his total lack of orientation into her plan. Trapped in a cosy cottage in the woods during a snowstorm, they soon discover there’s indeed a very fine line between love and hate…
October 12, 2023
Yule Be My Duke is the first novella in Darcy Burke’s Matchmaking Chronicles series of Regency romances. It serves as a prequel to the rest of the series but also stands alone. It features some of my favorite tropes, including enemies to lovers, forced proximity, and snowed in with only one bed, all set during the holidays. A previous version of this story was published in November 2022 as part of the Duke in a Box anthology, but the current version has been expanded by about 30% and is worth reading again.
Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford, at a previous party 5 years ago where he made a very poor impression. They now find themselves at a yuletide house party their parents have organized in an attempt to match them, but neither is interested. I didn’t find either main character very appealing at first, but John and Cecilia grew on me once they stopped attempting to torment each other, and I enjoyed their banter and the chemistry between them. This was a whirlwind romance (from antagonism to lust and love in a single night), but it was an enjoyable read.
Note that this book includes mild swearing and explicit scenes of premarital sex. As long as such things don’t bother you, I recommend this story to historical romance fans.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and volunteered to provide an honest review.
Cecilia Bromwell met John Rowley, the Earl of Cosford, at a previous party 5 years ago where he made a very poor impression. They now find themselves at a yuletide house party their parents have organized in an attempt to match them, but neither is interested. I didn’t find either main character very appealing at first, but John and Cecilia grew on me once they stopped attempting to torment each other, and I enjoyed their banter and the chemistry between them. This was a whirlwind romance (from antagonism to lust and love in a single night), but it was an enjoyable read.
Note that this book includes mild swearing and explicit scenes of premarital sex. As long as such things don’t bother you, I recommend this story to historical romance fans.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and volunteered to provide an honest review.
October 22, 2023
This is the prequel book to The Matchmaking Chronicles series. As I have read the series, I was very excited to read Cecelia and John's story. I was not disappointed! After meeting John at a party, she could most definitely claim to hate him like no other, after all the despicable pranks he played ruined two of her gowns. But ironically, years later at a yuletide house party, she learns that her parents want to match her with him, which of course, there is no way she would agree to. John also has no desire to marry her, and decides after his parents see how terribly they would suit, he would be off the hook. But fate had other plans for them when they get separated from their party in a terrible snowstorm and have no choice but to seek shelter together alone. Forced proximity also forces them to see each other in a different light and these once upon a time enemies undoubtedly turn into something more.
It was fun to see how it all started. Cecilia and John were both great characters with equal amounts of sass and charisma and I enjoyed their interactions and cheeky banter that always brought a smile to my face. Seeing now how it all started, I think it might be fun now to go back and reread the series!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
It was fun to see how it all started. Cecilia and John were both great characters with equal amounts of sass and charisma and I enjoyed their interactions and cheeky banter that always brought a smile to my face. Seeing now how it all started, I think it might be fun now to go back and reread the series!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
September 24, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
Having read the other novels in the Matchmaking Chronicles series it was nice to find out more about Cecilia and John. I loved that they had started as enemies over what had happened during a house party years ago, although I would have believed that animosity would have continued had they had other such encounters in later years. I was definitely on Cecilia's side over the whole feud - dumping lemonade on someone's head is not an equivalent punishment for that person putting jam in your shoes. Her plan to strand him in the woods was a little cruel but in her defense she didn't know he would have a terrible sense of direction. As they state multiple times, getting caught out in the storm and having to stay together in a tiny cottage overnight was the best thing that could have happened to them. I thought it was somewhat amusing that Cecilia's father was so upset despite the fact that prior to the whole incident he had planned to make her marry him and then once she actually wanted to he was all upset about it. This story also gave a little more background on the matchmaking history of Cecilia's family and why she fancies herself a matchmaker in this series.
Having read the other novels in the Matchmaking Chronicles series it was nice to find out more about Cecilia and John. I loved that they had started as enemies over what had happened during a house party years ago, although I would have believed that animosity would have continued had they had other such encounters in later years. I was definitely on Cecilia's side over the whole feud - dumping lemonade on someone's head is not an equivalent punishment for that person putting jam in your shoes. Her plan to strand him in the woods was a little cruel but in her defense she didn't know he would have a terrible sense of direction. As they state multiple times, getting caught out in the storm and having to stay together in a tiny cottage overnight was the best thing that could have happened to them. I thought it was somewhat amusing that Cecilia's father was so upset despite the fact that prior to the whole incident he had planned to make her marry him and then once she actually wanted to he was all upset about it. This story also gave a little more background on the matchmaking history of Cecilia's family and why she fancies herself a matchmaker in this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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