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The Duel #4
Beloved
The mystery of the duel reaches its thrilling resolution.
Torn by conflicting loyalties, Olivia is driven by her conscience to warn the new Duke of Cuttyngham of a threat she does not wish to believe in. But Victor, the young duke, is very far from the ineffectual cripple she expects.
He may be moody, suspicious, and downright rude, but he is also formidably clever, determined and breathtakingly handsome. Perhaps it's inevitable, when the dangerous accidents begin, that he should win her loyalty against the scheming father she barely knows. But she never meant to fall so irrevocably in love.
Victor, spreading his wings in a rapidly burgeoning world, dares to reach for happiness. Together, he and Olivia travel to Brussels to reveal the true killer of the late duke. Catching such a wily enemy, however, is not easy, especially not when war breaks into their plans and leaves Victor defenceless… Or is he?
While the Battle of Waterloo rages only a few miles from the town, will Victor and Olivia find love is strong enough to win their own struggle?
Join them and returning friends from the other books in the series for this satisfying and utterly romantic finale!
Torn by conflicting loyalties, Olivia is driven by her conscience to warn the new Duke of Cuttyngham of a threat she does not wish to believe in. But Victor, the young duke, is very far from the ineffectual cripple she expects.
He may be moody, suspicious, and downright rude, but he is also formidably clever, determined and breathtakingly handsome. Perhaps it's inevitable, when the dangerous accidents begin, that he should win her loyalty against the scheming father she barely knows. But she never meant to fall so irrevocably in love.
Victor, spreading his wings in a rapidly burgeoning world, dares to reach for happiness. Together, he and Olivia travel to Brussels to reveal the true killer of the late duke. Catching such a wily enemy, however, is not easy, especially not when war breaks into their plans and leaves Victor defenceless… Or is he?
While the Battle of Waterloo rages only a few miles from the town, will Victor and Olivia find love is strong enough to win their own struggle?
Join them and returning friends from the other books in the series for this satisfying and utterly romantic finale!
250 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2023
37 people want to read
About the author
Mary Lancaster
139 books517 followersMary Lancaster is a USA Today bestselling author of historical fiction and historical romance. She lives in Scotland with her husband, one of three grown-up kids, and a small dog with a big personality.
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
Her first literary love was historical fiction, a genre which she relishes mixing up with romance and adventure in her own writing. Several of her novels feature actual historical characters as diverse as Hungarian revolutionaries, medieval English outlaws, and a family of eternally rebellious royal Scots. To say nothing of Vlad the Impaler.
Her most recent books are light fun Regency romances, with occasional forays into Victorian mystery.
Connect with Mary on-line:
Website: http://www.MaryLancaster.com
Newsletter sign-up: https://landing.mailerlite.com/webfor...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mary.lancast...
Facebook Author Page: https://www.facebook.com/MaryLancaste...
Twitter: @MaryLancNovels https://twitter.com/MaryLancNovels
Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/Mary-Lancaster...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/mary-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
August 17, 2023
I just finished the final book in The Duel series in one sitting. I read through it pretty quickly because I was so eager to find out what happened. Now I’m going to go back and read all four books, straight through, so I can enjoy the whole series fully.
This is a wonderfully written book! I enjoyed the main characters in this book, the swoon worthy Victor and the delightful, feisty Olivia along with all the others connected to the duel. We finally get to meet the mysterious woman who observed the duel from the trees.
The tension and plot made the story fly by along with the sweet (and steamy) romance of Victor and Olivia. They really are good for each other.
I really liked seeing all the characters from the previous books meet again for the climax in Brussels. I was happy to see them all support each other in the pursuit of the villainous Anthony. The climactic scene had me on the edge of my seat, I was worried what would happen to Victor.
Thanks so much to the author for including an epilogue which tied up all the loose ends and gave us a glimpse of the future. I was thrilled to see how everything ends up happily. Well for everyone but the villain of course. Lol
I definitely recommend reading all the 4 books in order since they intertwine so much. I had read the third book before the first two, which worked out ok. But the series is so interesting I went back to buy the first two books and found it is worth reading them in order. I got a lot more out of each book that way.
I quite enjoyed seeing several of the same events take place in each book, from the perspective of that particular book’s H and h.
A terrific series, I really loved it. I’m definitely going to put Lancaster on my auto-buy list now.
This is a wonderfully written book! I enjoyed the main characters in this book, the swoon worthy Victor and the delightful, feisty Olivia along with all the others connected to the duel. We finally get to meet the mysterious woman who observed the duel from the trees.
The tension and plot made the story fly by along with the sweet (and steamy) romance of Victor and Olivia. They really are good for each other.
I really liked seeing all the characters from the previous books meet again for the climax in Brussels. I was happy to see them all support each other in the pursuit of the villainous Anthony. The climactic scene had me on the edge of my seat, I was worried what would happen to Victor.
Thanks so much to the author for including an epilogue which tied up all the loose ends and gave us a glimpse of the future. I was thrilled to see how everything ends up happily. Well for everyone but the villain of course. Lol
I definitely recommend reading all the 4 books in order since they intertwine so much. I had read the third book before the first two, which worked out ok. But the series is so interesting I went back to buy the first two books and found it is worth reading them in order. I got a lot more out of each book that way.
I quite enjoyed seeing several of the same events take place in each book, from the perspective of that particular book’s H and h.
A terrific series, I really loved it. I’m definitely going to put Lancaster on my auto-buy list now.
May 12, 2024
Suspicious of her father's involvement in the death of a duke, Olivia Rainey goes to deliver a reluctant warning to his heir, only to become further entangled in the mystery.
In this final book in the Duel series, we finally get a conclusive answer to the mystery of the Duke of Cuttyngham's death, even if we knew pretty much from the start who committed the crime. With a side of romance and self-discovery, as a little treat.
Having been hidden away all his life due to a congenital disability, Victor was on the verge of escaping to university when his father's death forces him to shoulder the mantle of the title. Hidden away due to her illegitimacy, Olivia and he find first friendship and then love with each other, and I loved how they became both stronger and happier as a team. A major theme of this series has been overcoming isolation, and I enjoyed seeing how Olivia helped Victor break the ice and connect to his servants and neighbors after being besmirched by horrid rumors all his life.
However, I did feel that character development was given a bit short shrift with all the drama of the murder mystery and then the aftermath of the battle of Waterloo. We see Victor and Olivia grow together, but not as much where they were growing from, especially Olivia. While I enjoyed the quiet, slow-paced romance, I did wish there was some more space devoted to this element too.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
In this final book in the Duel series, we finally get a conclusive answer to the mystery of the Duke of Cuttyngham's death, even if we knew pretty much from the start who committed the crime. With a side of romance and self-discovery, as a little treat.
Having been hidden away all his life due to a congenital disability, Victor was on the verge of escaping to university when his father's death forces him to shoulder the mantle of the title. Hidden away due to her illegitimacy, Olivia and he find first friendship and then love with each other, and I loved how they became both stronger and happier as a team. A major theme of this series has been overcoming isolation, and I enjoyed seeing how Olivia helped Victor break the ice and connect to his servants and neighbors after being besmirched by horrid rumors all his life.
However, I did feel that character development was given a bit short shrift with all the drama of the murder mystery and then the aftermath of the battle of Waterloo. We see Victor and Olivia grow together, but not as much where they were growing from, especially Olivia. While I enjoyed the quiet, slow-paced romance, I did wish there was some more space devoted to this element too.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
August 12, 2023
Enjoyable series finale!
A reckoning is finally insight as the pivotal puzzle piece slots into place and our couples (brought together across the series) convene for a showdown in Brussels against the backdrop of the approaching devastation of the Battle of Waterloo. As we finally find out what the 'mysterious lady from the George Inn' truly saw as Olivia travels to warn Victor.
Developing an engaging slow burn romance that works hard to crumble the mistrust, conflicting loyalities, misconceptions and the heinous false rumours that have polluted their expectations. As the first stirrings of desire simmers gently beneath the loneliness, doubt fueled arguing, unraveling schemes and sweetly blooming friendship forging between them. While the pair hesitantly reach for the happiness, newly found hope has inspired them to crave, if only they can outsmart the danger that lurks close to home and is resurrecting a deadly game from the shadows.
I really enjoyed the comfortable dependence that grew as self-doubt gave way to admiration and love. Shining light on the humiliation Victor has cruelly been subjected to...because of his disability... as Olivia helps to reverse his detrimentally diminished confidence and selfworth seeded from the heartaching persuasion he is an unmarriageable monster. Not the attractive immensely appealing man, so delightfully and instanteously evident to Olivia, as layers are exposed to reveal the strong, highly intelligent, caring man beneath the guarded wall of rudeness he projects.
Cultivating a bittersweet journey of trust and teamwork wrapped in a compelling warmth that hooked me in with it's power to break through the repression and oppression that cloaks them and enables them to spread their wings towards a future together...if only they can disarm the glutinous villain haunting their steps.
A well written finale that combines threat, love, friendship, heated passion and a new found awakening freedom that ultimately ties up all the loose intriguing threads into one neatly crafted bow! I recommend you read in order to appreciate the character dynamics, relationships, binding bonds and friendships that interweave throughout the mysteries surrounding that fateful duel of book 1.
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
A reckoning is finally insight as the pivotal puzzle piece slots into place and our couples (brought together across the series) convene for a showdown in Brussels against the backdrop of the approaching devastation of the Battle of Waterloo. As we finally find out what the 'mysterious lady from the George Inn' truly saw as Olivia travels to warn Victor.
Developing an engaging slow burn romance that works hard to crumble the mistrust, conflicting loyalities, misconceptions and the heinous false rumours that have polluted their expectations. As the first stirrings of desire simmers gently beneath the loneliness, doubt fueled arguing, unraveling schemes and sweetly blooming friendship forging between them. While the pair hesitantly reach for the happiness, newly found hope has inspired them to crave, if only they can outsmart the danger that lurks close to home and is resurrecting a deadly game from the shadows.
I really enjoyed the comfortable dependence that grew as self-doubt gave way to admiration and love. Shining light on the humiliation Victor has cruelly been subjected to...because of his disability... as Olivia helps to reverse his detrimentally diminished confidence and selfworth seeded from the heartaching persuasion he is an unmarriageable monster. Not the attractive immensely appealing man, so delightfully and instanteously evident to Olivia, as layers are exposed to reveal the strong, highly intelligent, caring man beneath the guarded wall of rudeness he projects.
Cultivating a bittersweet journey of trust and teamwork wrapped in a compelling warmth that hooked me in with it's power to break through the repression and oppression that cloaks them and enables them to spread their wings towards a future together...if only they can disarm the glutinous villain haunting their steps.
A well written finale that combines threat, love, friendship, heated passion and a new found awakening freedom that ultimately ties up all the loose intriguing threads into one neatly crafted bow! I recommend you read in order to appreciate the character dynamics, relationships, binding bonds and friendships that interweave throughout the mysteries surrounding that fateful duel of book 1.
~I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own~
August 15, 2023
Beloved by Mary Lancaster is a convoluted tale with a confusing background. Let’s just say, they had all been lied to, many times. Victor was now the duke. He had not been raised into the position as his father believed him to be a hopeless cripple as well as simple-minded. His cousin Anthony would be the heir if something happened to him and it appeared Anthony would make that something happen. Olivia was the base-born daughter of Anthony to whom he paid no attention until he thought she might be of use. Anthony wanted Olivia to marry Victor to undermine him and help her father gain the dukedom. Olivia was an honest and pure young woman who had witnessed something that made her think that Victor was in danger, so despite the rumors he was a monster, she took her chaperone and went to warn him. She was very surprised to find he was no monster but a handsome man with a bad leg and low self-esteem. She began the process of rectifying those issues and mitigating the danger.
Victor was a well-written character, typical of a Regency man who was less than perfect and so shunned. This father had never been anything but cruel and his mother was no better. His stepmother, who was younger than he, proved to be different, but had to be subtle as she was as much under his father’s thumb as was he. He was a well-written, empathetic character who took things into his own hands and grew into his position. The was just at the time of Waterloo and the characters all found themselves in Brussels, not quite in the middle of the war, but close. The setting provided the chaos needed for Anthony to do his best work and try, once more, to kill Victor. The descriptions of the war-wounded and the efforts to save them was well-done. As the reader, I felt myself rooting for Victor and Olivia as wall as the other characters. Good book!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Beloved by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #MaryLancaster #Beloved
Victor was a well-written character, typical of a Regency man who was less than perfect and so shunned. This father had never been anything but cruel and his mother was no better. His stepmother, who was younger than he, proved to be different, but had to be subtle as she was as much under his father’s thumb as was he. He was a well-written, empathetic character who took things into his own hands and grew into his position. The was just at the time of Waterloo and the characters all found themselves in Brussels, not quite in the middle of the war, but close. The setting provided the chaos needed for Anthony to do his best work and try, once more, to kill Victor. The descriptions of the war-wounded and the efforts to save them was well-done. As the reader, I felt myself rooting for Victor and Olivia as wall as the other characters. Good book!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Beloved by Dragonblade, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Dragonblade #MaryLancaster #Beloved
August 17, 2023
Olivia Rainey arrives at Cuttyng's to warn Victor, the Duke of Cuttyngham, that she fears for his life. He's not sure he can trust her. She's the illegitimate daughter of his cousin Anthony Severne, the next in line to inherit. It becomes obvious that she is the closest one he can trust, as she proves her devotion. Newly married, Victor and Olivia arrive in Belgium before Waterloo, but their worst enemy is already there. Her father thinks he can force Olivia to help him become the next duke, but Olivia and Victor only want to find proof of the former duke's killer. The mystery is solved and justice is served. Mild open bedroom door. Read from the beginning of the series as close friends and relatives find their happily ever after and the war against Napoleon is won.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
August 23, 2025
Author: Mary Lancaster
Title: Beloved
The young Duke Cuttyngham is a man whose very hard to get along with or shall I say he makes it extremely hard for people to get along with him. Why is that? I cannot be for obvious reasons, because Miss. Olivia is saying cry me a river. Everyone has something that has effected them, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they have to be rude to every human being that they meet or share a conversation. The word play that the two have makes the book quite interesting. It certainly does perks the ears of the help in the Dukes home. The romance is a little slow in this book, but the mystery and twist makes up for that. I enjoyed that Olivia and Victor (theDuke) work together as a team on searching down the person whose trying to hurt certain people. I enjoyed the entertainment very much. The book kept me intrigued chapter after chapter. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
Title: Beloved
The young Duke Cuttyngham is a man whose very hard to get along with or shall I say he makes it extremely hard for people to get along with him. Why is that? I cannot be for obvious reasons, because Miss. Olivia is saying cry me a river. Everyone has something that has effected them, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they have to be rude to every human being that they meet or share a conversation. The word play that the two have makes the book quite interesting. It certainly does perks the ears of the help in the Dukes home. The romance is a little slow in this book, but the mystery and twist makes up for that. I enjoyed that Olivia and Victor (theDuke) work together as a team on searching down the person whose trying to hurt certain people. I enjoyed the entertainment very much. The book kept me intrigued chapter after chapter. Until next time my fellow readers. Read on!
August 13, 2023
Four interlinked novels, each of which can be read on its own, start with a duel and end with Waterloo. Whilst a casual reader could pick up one of the books in this series and not feel cheated, it does make for far more enjoyment if they are read in chronological order. The new Duke of Cuttyngham has been despised, rejected, and denigrated his entire life for having a twisted limb that he was unfortunately born with. In a society where perfection was demanded, he stood little chance against a cruel and manipulative father. Olivia has information pertinent to the unsolved death of Victor's father, presumably in a duel, although there are conflicting thoughts on the matter. She feels that Victor is in danger and despite the risk to herself, she embarks on a journey to warn him of the threat facing him. Despite his deformity, Victor is no fool and he knows far more about the situation than Olivia anticipated, and when he invites her to assist him in his studies, he not only finds a competent helper but one who also stirs and delights him. Both Victor and Olivia discover that the new Duke is in danger, even in his own household, and a fortuitous meeting makes it possible for them to travel to Brussels to meet up with the rest of the family and their friends, most of whom are willing to support and stand by him. In the midst of the Battle of Waterloo, Victor and Olivia face their own demons, but as usual, Victor has been underestimated and he has far more strength and intuition than expected. I felt myself tearing up over the descriptions of Waterloo as the reality of war is brought home. Nevertheless, this romance comes to a lovely conclusion, bringing all the characters together once again. I received a copy of this book as a gift through Dragonblade Publishing and NetGalley and this is my honest and voluntary review.
August 15, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion*
I have really liked this series and it's not that I found the final book disappointing, just underwhelming. And this might just be me, but I couldn't get past the fact that Victor and Olivia were cousins. I know that they were something closer to 3rd cousins and that this kind of thing happened all the time in those days, but I'm not a fan of those relationships - it wouldn't fly in contemporary romances and I don't like it in my historical romances. And the shame of it is that I really did like them as a couple. They were so supportive of one another and saw beyond what many in society would have seen as their flaws. I liked that their relationship started as a friendship and developed over time. I thought the plot for them to have to get married came a bit out of no where. And the storyline involving his servant trying to kill him was left a little unresolved - we find out who it was but there isn't really a confrontation involving that person. We know from the book 1 that Anthony has been up to no good and I did like the way all the pieces to that mystery fell into place by the end. I loved getting to see everyone from the previous books (especially the reappearance of Tom) and the way they interacted with one another. There has also been a tension throughout the books with the upcoming battle at Waterloo and that is resolved as well, but it felt a little like an afterthought - it all occurs over a single chapter and there are no scenes involving the actual battle. For me this book fell in the "liked but didn't love" category.
I have really liked this series and it's not that I found the final book disappointing, just underwhelming. And this might just be me, but I couldn't get past the fact that Victor and Olivia were cousins. I know that they were something closer to 3rd cousins and that this kind of thing happened all the time in those days, but I'm not a fan of those relationships - it wouldn't fly in contemporary romances and I don't like it in my historical romances. And the shame of it is that I really did like them as a couple. They were so supportive of one another and saw beyond what many in society would have seen as their flaws. I liked that their relationship started as a friendship and developed over time. I thought the plot for them to have to get married came a bit out of no where. And the storyline involving his servant trying to kill him was left a little unresolved - we find out who it was but there isn't really a confrontation involving that person. We know from the book 1 that Anthony has been up to no good and I did like the way all the pieces to that mystery fell into place by the end. I loved getting to see everyone from the previous books (especially the reappearance of Tom) and the way they interacted with one another. There has also been a tension throughout the books with the upcoming battle at Waterloo and that is resolved as well, but it felt a little like an afterthought - it all occurs over a single chapter and there are no scenes involving the actual battle. For me this book fell in the "liked but didn't love" category.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 27, 2024
This last book of the series has Olivia Rainey, the natural daughter of Anthony Severne, cousin of Victor, the Duke of Cuttyngham, traveling to Cuttyngs to warn the duke of possible danger. While there, "accidents" begin to happen, and it's clear that someone is trying to murder the duke. The unworldly Victor, who was criticized and humiliated by his father from birth because of his deformed leg, believes that he is unattractive and that everyone is repelled by him. Olivia begins to convince him of his beauty and his worth. After satisfying himself that Olivia has no malicious intentions, he sets off for Brussels with her to escape the danger and to hopefully solve the mystery of his father's death.
There's plenty of adventure and tension in the anticipation of Napoleon's advance upon the low countries. The famous Duchess of Richmond's ball is part of the story. It was held the night before the Battle of Waterloo. I felt that the final confrontation between Victor and It didn't seem plausible. I was also disappointed with the hanging threads. What happened to the Astleys in Book 2? How was Major Giles Butler's innocence resolved? Did Frostbrook's mother ever accept Sophia? What happened to Sophia's cousins when their funds were cut off? I guess we'll never know. 4 stars
Note: I read the KU version, but it doesn't appear here on Goodreads.
There's plenty of adventure and tension in the anticipation of Napoleon's advance upon the low countries. The famous Duchess of Richmond's ball is part of the story. It was held the night before the Battle of Waterloo. I felt that the final confrontation between Victor and It didn't seem plausible. I was also disappointed with the hanging threads. What happened to the Astleys in Book 2? How was Major Giles Butler's innocence resolved? Did Frostbrook's mother ever accept Sophia? What happened to Sophia's cousins when their funds were cut off? I guess we'll never know. 4 stars
Note: I read the KU version, but it doesn't appear here on Goodreads.
August 23, 2023
4.5 STARS
The series comes to an end with everything resolved. This can be a standalone story, characters from the series in this one, so you'd enjoy it more if you read the series. Mainly how their relationships all changed towards each other.
I liked both H/h and they were perfect for each other. The h didn't see him as a crippled man. They were cousins but several times removed. This didn't bother me as it has some reviewers. Victor and Anthony were cousins, but in 2 places said Victor was Anthony's nephew. I saw only one typo.
My heart went out, especially to the H, and how he was treated by his despicable father because he wasn't perfect. The h also grew up without love in her home. What they didn't have growing up, they found in each other, which was touching.
Some tension with the Battle of Waterloo looming over them. The actual battle was off page. Story was suspenseful, some twists, nasty villains, violence, romance builds slowly, and some steam. Lovemaking within marriage, heat level 4 out of 5. They worked as a couple and I loved their dialogue. Someone from the H's past appears, wasn't a cookie cutter and I loved that.
No cheating, HEA, romance and steam. The h's companion/maid didn't make an appearance at the end and I wanted to know what her future held. We do get an epilogue 4 years in the future and nothing on her was mentioned.
I can't improve on the blurb, just recommending this story, series and author. (ljb)
The series comes to an end with everything resolved. This can be a standalone story, characters from the series in this one, so you'd enjoy it more if you read the series. Mainly how their relationships all changed towards each other.
I liked both H/h and they were perfect for each other. The h didn't see him as a crippled man. They were cousins but several times removed. This didn't bother me as it has some reviewers. Victor and Anthony were cousins, but in 2 places said Victor was Anthony's nephew. I saw only one typo.
My heart went out, especially to the H, and how he was treated by his despicable father because he wasn't perfect. The h also grew up without love in her home. What they didn't have growing up, they found in each other, which was touching.
Some tension with the Battle of Waterloo looming over them. The actual battle was off page. Story was suspenseful, some twists, nasty villains, violence, romance builds slowly, and some steam. Lovemaking within marriage, heat level 4 out of 5. They worked as a couple and I loved their dialogue. Someone from the H's past appears, wasn't a cookie cutter and I loved that.
No cheating, HEA, romance and steam. The h's companion/maid didn't make an appearance at the end and I wanted to know what her future held. We do get an epilogue 4 years in the future and nothing on her was mentioned.
I can't improve on the blurb, just recommending this story, series and author. (ljb)
September 14, 2023
This is the fourth installment of The Duel series. It has been such a captivating and engaging series thus far, and this latest addition is no less exciting, bringing us to the finale and conclusion of who killed the late Duke of Cuttyngham. Victor is now the new duke, but wasn't groomed to be as such because his father never thought him to be capable enough, with him being crippled and his father perceiving him as simple-minded. His father's cousin Anthony was gunning to be the new duke, and he was ready to do anything to make that happen. Olivia was Anthony's daughter and found out Victor was in danger. Despite rumors of him being described as a monster, Olivia went to warn him. She continues to see him, developing a beautiful friendship with him that slowly turns into something more as she helps him solve the mystery of the murder of his fafher.
A very well-written story that brings the series to a satisfying conclusion. The characters were lovely and I enjoyed following them on their journey as they solved the mystery and justice was finally served, and also found love alone the way.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
A very well-written story that brings the series to a satisfying conclusion. The characters were lovely and I enjoyed following them on their journey as they solved the mystery and justice was finally served, and also found love alone the way.
I received a complimentary copy from Dragonblade Publishing and Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 15, 2023
Olivia is driven by her conscience to warn Victor the new Duke of Cuttyngham of a threat she does not wish to believe in. But Victor, the young duke, is very far from the ineffectual cripple she expects.
He may be moody, suspicious, and downright rude, but he is also formidably clever, determined and breathtakingly handsome. Victor is spreading his wings now his father has died. Together, he and Olivia travel to Brussels to reveal the true killer of the late duke. Catching such a wily enemy, however, is not easy, especially not when war breaks into their plans
The fourth & final part of the series & all is revealed. It could be read on its own but all four books are interlinked. Victor’s father was killed in a duel but as the series has progressed more evidence has emerged that there was more at play than the duel. I loved both Victor & Olivia, he’s been denigrated his whole life & it was lovely to see him gaining confidence & self esteem. Olivia was also a strong woman. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn’t easy but was very entertaining. The villain had been obvious but he did get hi just desserts
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
He may be moody, suspicious, and downright rude, but he is also formidably clever, determined and breathtakingly handsome. Victor is spreading his wings now his father has died. Together, he and Olivia travel to Brussels to reveal the true killer of the late duke. Catching such a wily enemy, however, is not easy, especially not when war breaks into their plans
The fourth & final part of the series & all is revealed. It could be read on its own but all four books are interlinked. Victor’s father was killed in a duel but as the series has progressed more evidence has emerged that there was more at play than the duel. I loved both Victor & Olivia, he’s been denigrated his whole life & it was lovely to see him gaining confidence & self esteem. Olivia was also a strong woman. I loved their journey to a HEA which wasn’t easy but was very entertaining. The villain had been obvious but he did get hi just desserts
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
August 6, 2023
4.5 stars
Great story. The last part of a four part series detailing the events of a duel. Victor's father, a mean man, was goaded into a duel and appeared to stumble into the shot. The other duellist's intention was to miss him, Olivia was the mystery woman at the duel but also Victor's cousin, Anthony's natural daughter. Victor is lame, possibly an injury at or before birth. His father had always tormented him and treated him poorly. Becoming the duke has awoken in Victor much needed self respect. Olivia realises that she needs to warn Victor that he is still in danger. Olivia is an interesting character generous caring and interested in intellectual pursuits. The romance builds slowly. It was lovely to see Astley, Lord Grande and other folk from the prevous three books.
IMO you will enjoy it more if you have read the whole series. I do like this author's work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Great story. The last part of a four part series detailing the events of a duel. Victor's father, a mean man, was goaded into a duel and appeared to stumble into the shot. The other duellist's intention was to miss him, Olivia was the mystery woman at the duel but also Victor's cousin, Anthony's natural daughter. Victor is lame, possibly an injury at or before birth. His father had always tormented him and treated him poorly. Becoming the duke has awoken in Victor much needed self respect. Olivia realises that she needs to warn Victor that he is still in danger. Olivia is an interesting character generous caring and interested in intellectual pursuits. The romance builds slowly. It was lovely to see Astley, Lord Grande and other folk from the prevous three books.
IMO you will enjoy it more if you have read the whole series. I do like this author's work.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 27, 2023
This series is best read in order as there is a common mystery plotline that continues throughout the separate love stories. This is the conclusion and you will appreciate it more if you are familiar with the characters and events from the previous books. Victor has become the duke after his father died. The old duke despised Victor because of his physical disability so he is not much mourned, but Olivia thinks her father Anthony who is Victor's heir may know something about how Victor's father died and be a threat to Victor as well. The characters from the previous books all end up meeting in Belgium. The battle of Waterloo is being fought in the background so it adds poignancy here. I loved how Victor overcomes his upbringing and finds his strength.
Steam level: Brief references.
Steam level: Brief references.
December 21, 2023
Born on the wrong side of the blanket was the proper term of describing a improper child's birth. Olivia was just such a girl. Her father was born a gentleman. Her mother had made him assure Olivia was given a proper education and placed in a good home. Then she left. Anthony raised her with almost no contact only a small cottage and one companion to guide her.
Victor was the heir to the Duke but had a handicapped leg. He was handsome, extremely intelligent and highly educated but his father was disgusting by him. He kept Victor away from social functions and refused to allow him to go to school.
Anthony wished for Olivia to go to Victor and marry the poor stupid cripple so he could become the duke.
Victor was the heir to the Duke but had a handicapped leg. He was handsome, extremely intelligent and highly educated but his father was disgusting by him. He kept Victor away from social functions and refused to allow him to go to school.
Anthony wished for Olivia to go to Victor and marry the poor stupid cripple so he could become the duke.
January 6, 2024
This was a very enjoyable read! The set-up seemed to point towards silly misunderstandings and a brooding, possibly cavemannish hero, but neither was the case. Instead, we meet sensible, realistic characters, a somewhat complex but well-working general set-up (I haven't read the previous volumes of the series yet which might account for that) with a gripping plot, interesting and likeable side-characters and excellent storytelling. Seeing Victor and Olivia each coming into their own so well, and finding such a good match in each other was very sweet and a joy to read.
I suppose it's better to read the whole series from the start, but it wasn't a problem reading it as a stand-alone, as I did, since all previous happenings were made sufficiently clear to understand the plot.
I suppose it's better to read the whole series from the start, but it wasn't a problem reading it as a stand-alone, as I did, since all previous happenings were made sufficiently clear to understand the plot.
August 5, 2023
Beloved is a lovely story about a man who experienced cruelty and abuse all his life from those who were supposed to protect him. The first part of the story is a slow narration of Victor’s past and present, his current and past struggles through mental abuse experienced at the hands of his father and uncle specifically until there comes a moment of light personified by a girl who he doesn’t trust completely. When they decide to trust each other is when the adventure begins surrounded by the caos of war and tragedy while also fighting for their own lives.
I just reviewed Beloved by Mary Lancaster. #Beloved #NetGalley
I just reviewed Beloved by Mary Lancaster. #Beloved #NetGalley
August 17, 2023
This historical romance is part of a series and although you could enjoy it on its own, I think you will understand the characters and story behind it all, if you read them in order. It is an unusual storyline with wonderful characters.
Our hero has struggled, mentally and physically all his life. Our heroine never met either of her parents until recently. She's not sure she likes, or trusts her father or his reasons for finding her.
This book is filled with adventure and danger for all. It reads like the last in the series with a catch up a few years later in the epilogue.
Good fun.
Our hero has struggled, mentally and physically all his life. Our heroine never met either of her parents until recently. She's not sure she likes, or trusts her father or his reasons for finding her.
This book is filled with adventure and danger for all. It reads like the last in the series with a catch up a few years later in the epilogue.
Good fun.
August 18, 2023
Delightful end to a fascinating series.
After his father's death in a duel, Victor the new duke sees his step mother, his sister and one of his closest friends marry in quick succession, but he still has his books and estate to look after.
Olivia, daughter to Victor's uncle, saw the duel that killed the late duke, and has good reason to worry for the new dukes safety. But she's concerned that if she visits him he'll expect a marriage between them as arranged by her father and his, and she doesn't trust her father. But she decided to visit the new duke and not mention the proposed match.
Have loved the series and this a fitting finale. I'm sorry we won't see these characters again.
After his father's death in a duel, Victor the new duke sees his step mother, his sister and one of his closest friends marry in quick succession, but he still has his books and estate to look after.
Olivia, daughter to Victor's uncle, saw the duel that killed the late duke, and has good reason to worry for the new dukes safety. But she's concerned that if she visits him he'll expect a marriage between them as arranged by her father and his, and she doesn't trust her father. But she decided to visit the new duke and not mention the proposed match.
Have loved the series and this a fitting finale. I'm sorry we won't see these characters again.
August 11, 2023
Best read after the other books in this series if you wish to keep track of the characters, though the romance element is a standalone. The common theme to the series was the unexpected death of a duke in a duel from a wound that shouldn’t have killed him. In this book all the threads of that event are pulled together for a satisfying conclusion, a villain gets his comeuppance and an abused young man and a lonely young woman come through trials to find love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2023
4.5 stars
This last book of the series leaves the rest in the dust. The romance is believable, with the main characters first distrusting, then understanding each other, their interactions colored with mutual attraction. Lack of communication and misunderstandings were kept to a minimum. The caring and support Victor and Olivia gave each other as they faced danger and then wartime together felt authentic and satisfying. This was a perfect way to end the series, and almost made the sometimes frustrating slog through the previous books worth it.
Still too many editing errors.
This last book of the series leaves the rest in the dust. The romance is believable, with the main characters first distrusting, then understanding each other, their interactions colored with mutual attraction. Lack of communication and misunderstandings were kept to a minimum. The caring and support Victor and Olivia gave each other as they faced danger and then wartime together felt authentic and satisfying. This was a perfect way to end the series, and almost made the sometimes frustrating slog through the previous books worth it.
Still too many editing errors.
August 4, 2023
Victor has inherited a dukedom after his father is killed. Having been keep out of the public eye due to his deformed leg, he is reluctant to trust anyone. When Olivia, the illegitimate daughter of his cousin, comes to warn him that someone wants him dead he is unsure whether to trust her. They realize they must work together to find the villain. I received an ARC from NetGalley and Dragonblade Publishing for my honest review.
December 15, 2024
3.5 stars
Loved it. The tension, the pacing, the lead characters, the villain - it all worked together. And the overall arc of the series was finally concluded: the bad guy vanquished, the lovers united in their deserved HEA. Sweet.
Loved it. The tension, the pacing, the lead characters, the villain - it all worked together. And the overall arc of the series was finally concluded: the bad guy vanquished, the lovers united in their deserved HEA. Sweet.
August 19, 2023
Loved this series and this book. Olivia and Victor had such great chemistry.
August 21, 2023
ARC - reliably excellent.
September 6, 2023
See my review at Reading World
September 12, 2023
Lonely Hearts💔 Beat as One💞
Sweet and Clean Regency Romance💕 And Adventure With Murder mystery💀🗡
I got this e-book from Amazon with Kindle unlimited
Sweet and Clean Regency Romance💕 And Adventure With Murder mystery💀🗡
I got this e-book from Amazon with Kindle unlimited
September 24, 2023
I read a Kindle edition, although there is none shown on this site. There were some errors, so 3.5 stars, really.
October 5, 2023
Review of the series to follow.
October 24, 2023
One of very few books whose release date I marked in the calendar! Couldn’t wait to read Victor’s story (the most interesting character of the series), plus the explanation for how the duke died in the duel. Was it worth the wait? Absolutely! I loved Victor, as I suspected I would, and although the revelation of what happened at the duel wasn’t particularly surprising, there was enough real tension to drive the plot along very nicely. One word of warning: because of the nature of the plot, which culminates in all the principal characters in Brussels at the time of the Battle of Waterloo, it makes far more sense to have read the preceding books first.
Here’s the premise: Victor, the new Duke of Cuttyngham, has been left behind at Cuttyngs, alone but for the servants. He sent away everyone but his stepmother and sister, but even they have jumped ship and gone off to Brussels. But into his quiet, studious life comes Olivia, the natural daughter of Victor’s cousin and heir, to warn him that his life may be in danger. Which is lovely and all, but she’s the daughter of Victor’s cousin and heir presumptive, Anthony Severne, who is no friend to Victor, so how can he possibly trust her? And she, of course, has her own concerns about putting herself forward. But she knows something about the duel and so she feels she has to speak out.
I’m not going to say much about the duel, except that the secrets behind it come nicely to the boil in Brussels. Let’s talk about the romance, instead. As with the entire series, everything happens fairly quickly - far too quickly for credibility, perhaps. But it’s all very nicely done, and it was lovely seeing the curmudgeonly and reclusive Victor, thoroughly abused by his father because of a malformed leg, but with a very good brain and far more heart than his father, stepping forward and becoming a true hero. And he likes being the duke at last, and making things happen, instead of being nothing but an irritant to his father. I liked how decisive he was when he set out for Brussels, making careful plans and protecting Olivia and the servants, as well as himself.
Olivia was not quite such a striking character for me, not because there was anything lacking but purely because she was overshadowed by the towering personality of Victor. If you’re the sort of reader who loves to meet up with characters from earlier books, then you’ll adore the second half of this one, where everyone from the entire series is gathered in Brussels. I got muddled over who was whom, but that’s just me. The villain was suitably villainous, and if the identity was obvious from the start, that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the ending one iota.
The author does a terrific job of showing the atmosphere in the build-up to the Battle of Waterloo — the British insouciance and determination to carry on as normal and not be frightened by the French, and yet the growing tension. We see some of the aftereffects of the battle, and the scale of the carnage is not hidden, but it’s not graphic (I’m allergic to war stories, so I’d have bailed if there had been anything gruesome).
This was a wonderful conclusion to the series. No, it’s not particularly plausible, but it’s a hugely entertaining romp from dramatic start to equally dramatic finish. I loved it. There is some mildly graphic sexual content, for those who like to know about such things, but for me this was a wonderful five stars.
Here’s the premise: Victor, the new Duke of Cuttyngham, has been left behind at Cuttyngs, alone but for the servants. He sent away everyone but his stepmother and sister, but even they have jumped ship and gone off to Brussels. But into his quiet, studious life comes Olivia, the natural daughter of Victor’s cousin and heir, to warn him that his life may be in danger. Which is lovely and all, but she’s the daughter of Victor’s cousin and heir presumptive, Anthony Severne, who is no friend to Victor, so how can he possibly trust her? And she, of course, has her own concerns about putting herself forward. But she knows something about the duel and so she feels she has to speak out.
I’m not going to say much about the duel, except that the secrets behind it come nicely to the boil in Brussels. Let’s talk about the romance, instead. As with the entire series, everything happens fairly quickly - far too quickly for credibility, perhaps. But it’s all very nicely done, and it was lovely seeing the curmudgeonly and reclusive Victor, thoroughly abused by his father because of a malformed leg, but with a very good brain and far more heart than his father, stepping forward and becoming a true hero. And he likes being the duke at last, and making things happen, instead of being nothing but an irritant to his father. I liked how decisive he was when he set out for Brussels, making careful plans and protecting Olivia and the servants, as well as himself.
Olivia was not quite such a striking character for me, not because there was anything lacking but purely because she was overshadowed by the towering personality of Victor. If you’re the sort of reader who loves to meet up with characters from earlier books, then you’ll adore the second half of this one, where everyone from the entire series is gathered in Brussels. I got muddled over who was whom, but that’s just me. The villain was suitably villainous, and if the identity was obvious from the start, that didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the ending one iota.
The author does a terrific job of showing the atmosphere in the build-up to the Battle of Waterloo — the British insouciance and determination to carry on as normal and not be frightened by the French, and yet the growing tension. We see some of the aftereffects of the battle, and the scale of the carnage is not hidden, but it’s not graphic (I’m allergic to war stories, so I’d have bailed if there had been anything gruesome).
This was a wonderful conclusion to the series. No, it’s not particularly plausible, but it’s a hugely entertaining romp from dramatic start to equally dramatic finish. I loved it. There is some mildly graphic sexual content, for those who like to know about such things, but for me this was a wonderful five stars.
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