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The Bed Me Books #0.5
Duke the Halls
The Duke of Kittredge is that rarest of men—a wealthy, tall, and still-unmarried duke at the age of thirty-one. As such, he’s perennially at the top of the “Most Eligible Bachelor” list of the ton. And yet, he’s never gotten close to landing a wife. Young ladies don’t seem to like him. Scratch that. They revile him. And he’s in complete sympathy with their opinion of him.
Because he is, without question, an insufferable clodpole.
But to please his mother, he’s promised to attend a Christmas country house party where he will meet a dozen possible future duchesses. He will waltz and carol and stand under mistletoe when all he really wants to do is cloister himself in his London library with a fire, a stack of books, and his dog.
So he does what any rational, right-thinking duke would do.
He runs away.
Enter Franny Cranwell, ray of sunshine. After what they’ve both been through, Franny just wants her little brother Ren to have the best Christmas ever. And he will. She’ll make sure of it. And if that means she has to give an adorably grumpy duke lessons in how to speak, act like a human being, and win a wife, she’ll do that.
If only the darling duke weren’t so handsome and so brooding and so unintentionally funny.
And such a good kisser.
Duke the Halls is a steamy Regency romance Christmas novella and a prequel to The Bed Me Books series. Content warnings available on author's website.
Because he is, without question, an insufferable clodpole.
But to please his mother, he’s promised to attend a Christmas country house party where he will meet a dozen possible future duchesses. He will waltz and carol and stand under mistletoe when all he really wants to do is cloister himself in his London library with a fire, a stack of books, and his dog.
So he does what any rational, right-thinking duke would do.
He runs away.
Enter Franny Cranwell, ray of sunshine. After what they’ve both been through, Franny just wants her little brother Ren to have the best Christmas ever. And he will. She’ll make sure of it. And if that means she has to give an adorably grumpy duke lessons in how to speak, act like a human being, and win a wife, she’ll do that.
If only the darling duke weren’t so handsome and so brooding and so unintentionally funny.
And such a good kisser.
Duke the Halls is a steamy Regency romance Christmas novella and a prequel to The Bed Me Books series. Content warnings available on author's website.
Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2023
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276 people want to read
About the author
Felicity Niven
11 books337 followersSign up for Felicity Niven's newsletter and to receive a free prequel novella to the series The Lovelocks of London at https://www.felicityniven.com/reviews....
Felicity Niven is a hopeful romantic. Writing Regency romance is her third career after two degrees from Harvard. And you know what they say about third things? Yep, it’s a charm. She splits her time between the temperate South in the winter and the cool Great Lakes in the summer and thinks there can be no greater comforts than a pot of soup on the stove, a set of clean sheets on the bed, and a Jimmy Stewart film on a screen in the living room.
Felicity Niven is a hopeful romantic. Writing Regency romance is her third career after two degrees from Harvard. And you know what they say about third things? Yep, it’s a charm. She splits her time between the temperate South in the winter and the cool Great Lakes in the summer and thinks there can be no greater comforts than a pot of soup on the stove, a set of clean sheets on the bed, and a Jimmy Stewart film on a screen in the living room.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
December 12, 2023
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: Immediately
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy from the author in e-book form
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is a prequel novella to the Bed Me Books series.
Basic plot:
So I usually throw together my own thoughts on plot but I adored this opening SO MUCH that I’m just going to put it here…
The Duke of Kittredge is the rarest of men – a wealthy, tall and still-unmarried duke at the age of thrity-one. As such, he’s perennially at the top of the “Most Eligible Bachelor” list of the ton. And yet, he’s never gotten close to landing a wife. Young ladies don’t seem to like him. Scratch that. They revile him. And he’s in complete sympathy with their opinion of him.
Because he is, without question, an insufferable clodpole.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency – 1817
- Duke hero
- heroine loves Christmas
- celibate hero
- neologisms!
- opposites attract – bit of sunshine and grump feel
- hero has dimples
- bargain – for letting Franny and her brother stay for Christmas, she’ll help Kit with his lady problem
- bearded hero
- bit of a reverse sex lessons vibe
- novella length
- medium steam – 2 full scenes, though on is in the epilogue (in a novella length)
Ages:
- Hero is 31, didn’t catch heroine
First line:
No, no, no, no.
My thoughts:
This novella was just THE BEST. Really. I think this might be my favorite thing I’ve read all year. It was just delightful. Hilarious. Unique characters. And lots of hero perspective which is my favorite!
I found myself highlighting lines left and right – I just couldn’t get enough of these two. Their playful banter. I ate up how badly Kit wanted Franny but was rather clueless about how to behave. I adored being in his head and seeing him sort through those emotions and become a man worthy of her. But..it wasn’t just these two. It was the entire thing. Niven’s writing style has really grabbed me with this series and this one was just one of those books that the writing pulled me in and held me there in a cozy embrace. I like plenty of books, but rarely do I feel a book was an absolute pleasure to read cover to cover. This one hit that for me. It’s such a gem.
The time spent on kisses in this one is much appreciated by me – I adore first kisses and the fact that there’s some teaching elements in this one really makes Kit have some self reflection and he melted me with his thoughts about pleasing Franny. Still riding my high from Bed Me, Earl, I had no idea Niven would come by with another novel that leaves me grinning ear to ear and feeling giddy so soon. 😍
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥
Humor: Yes
Perspective: Third person from both hero and heroine
When mains are first on page together: Immediately
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy from the author in e-book form
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is a prequel novella to the Bed Me Books series.
Basic plot:
So I usually throw together my own thoughts on plot but I adored this opening SO MUCH that I’m just going to put it here…
The Duke of Kittredge is the rarest of men – a wealthy, tall and still-unmarried duke at the age of thrity-one. As such, he’s perennially at the top of the “Most Eligible Bachelor” list of the ton. And yet, he’s never gotten close to landing a wife. Young ladies don’t seem to like him. Scratch that. They revile him. And he’s in complete sympathy with their opinion of him.
Because he is, without question, an insufferable clodpole.
Give this a try if you want:
- Regency – 1817
- Duke hero
- heroine loves Christmas
- celibate hero
- neologisms!
- opposites attract – bit of sunshine and grump feel
- hero has dimples
- bargain – for letting Franny and her brother stay for Christmas, she’ll help Kit with his lady problem
- bearded hero
- bit of a reverse sex lessons vibe
- novella length
- medium steam – 2 full scenes, though on is in the epilogue (in a novella length)
Ages:
- Hero is 31, didn’t catch heroine
First line:
No, no, no, no.
My thoughts:
This novella was just THE BEST. Really. I think this might be my favorite thing I’ve read all year. It was just delightful. Hilarious. Unique characters. And lots of hero perspective which is my favorite!
I found myself highlighting lines left and right – I just couldn’t get enough of these two. Their playful banter. I ate up how badly Kit wanted Franny but was rather clueless about how to behave. I adored being in his head and seeing him sort through those emotions and become a man worthy of her. But..it wasn’t just these two. It was the entire thing. Niven’s writing style has really grabbed me with this series and this one was just one of those books that the writing pulled me in and held me there in a cozy embrace. I like plenty of books, but rarely do I feel a book was an absolute pleasure to read cover to cover. This one hit that for me. It’s such a gem.
The time spent on kisses in this one is much appreciated by me – I adore first kisses and the fact that there’s some teaching elements in this one really makes Kit have some self reflection and he melted me with his thoughts about pleasing Franny. Still riding my high from Bed Me, Earl, I had no idea Niven would come by with another novel that leaves me grinning ear to ear and feeling giddy so soon. 😍
Quotes/spoiler-y thoughts:Any mistakes/typos are my own
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
December 15, 2023
This one took me a whopping 18 days to finish and I think that basically sums up my experience. It wasn’t a bad novella, but it lacked urgency and I rarely felt myself wanting to pick it back up. This was my first by Niven, and I’m not quite sold.
Unfortunately, I was more often than not annoyed by Franny’s made up words. She was sunshine to his grumpy, yes, but it felt very forced and heavily reliant upon being told she was so perfect. Further, I wasn’t a fan of the very abrupt third-act situation. I think the novella could’ve been 20 pages less to avoid it, because it didn’t lead to much change or anything.
Niven said this was her lowest angst story yet, and while I do love a good low-angst story, nothing in this one kept me interested. There was no real emotional connection, which is what I heavily rely on when reading low angst. I did love bevel, though.
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I received an eARC from the author. All opinions are honest and my own.
Unfortunately, I was more often than not annoyed by Franny’s made up words. She was sunshine to his grumpy, yes, but it felt very forced and heavily reliant upon being told she was so perfect. Further, I wasn’t a fan of the very abrupt third-act situation. I think the novella could’ve been 20 pages less to avoid it, because it didn’t lead to much change or anything.
Niven said this was her lowest angst story yet, and while I do love a good low-angst story, nothing in this one kept me interested. There was no real emotional connection, which is what I heavily rely on when reading low angst. I did love bevel, though.
⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I received an eARC from the author. All opinions are honest and my own.
December 11, 2023
The best way I can describe this holiday gem is, imagine logs crackling in an old world fireplace. Large and small, fluffy dogs with red satin collars sleeping peacefully at the foot of the most beautiful Christmas tree you’ve ever seen. Bubbles magically float past the branches as "Dick in a Box" plays in the background. 🎄
Bonus: Kit, the duke on the cover, resembles a young Christopher Walken.
Bonus: Kit, the duke on the cover, resembles a young Christopher Walken.
December 6, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up
I think some of my friends may enjoy this spicy and sweet Christmas historical more than me. The H is a grumpy arsehole (by his definition, but the author's note mentions that he's actually neurodivergent). He's still appealing to some in spite of his misunderstood behaviors and attitude because he's a duke. He's been invited to a holiday house party after he's spent time in the woods with his best friends and he decides last minute to escape the pressure by jumping on a coach. The h's more sunshiney with a great sense of humor and a lot of sparkle. She was a lady before a scandal and is focused on supporting her younger brother. After an encounter in a coach, they end up in the same house for Christmas. Holiday themes and a good amount of steam. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither were virgins (H had been celibate for almost 3 years and she’d had one lover; some details given of each of their past histories that I felt were unnecessary, but nothing explicit).
It's insta-lust, borderline insta-obsession, on the H's part and the h is intrigued instantly from the first meeting. Since they agree to spend the holiday together, the h uses the opportunity to teach him how to be approachable so he can theoretically court a lady and also teach him about female pleasure, while he just revels in being near her and wants her. The writing style and some details weren’t my favorite but the spirit of it was fun and I enjoyed it. They have a good connection, but I still felt like something was missing a bit between them. Possibly because everything happens so quickly (it is a novella) and I did wonder how future interactions with society would go because of the h's scandal. Props to his best friend and his mother though for immediately accepting her and being supportive. H also has an adorable, great big dog so immediate points for that too.
There is a third act separation, but the H doesn't let it stand and goes to get his girl. He also delivers with a grand gesture. The epilogue is a few days later and is cute while providing some more steam. The author does have a second epilogue that she says will be available in January for newsletter subscribers.
I think some of my friends may enjoy this spicy and sweet Christmas historical more than me. The H is a grumpy arsehole (by his definition, but the author's note mentions that he's actually neurodivergent). He's still appealing to some in spite of his misunderstood behaviors and attitude because he's a duke. He's been invited to a holiday house party after he's spent time in the woods with his best friends and he decides last minute to escape the pressure by jumping on a coach. The h's more sunshiney with a great sense of humor and a lot of sparkle. She was a lady before a scandal and is focused on supporting her younger brother. After an encounter in a coach, they end up in the same house for Christmas. Holiday themes and a good amount of steam. Written in third person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and neither were virgins (H had been celibate for almost 3 years and she’d had one lover; some details given of each of their past histories that I felt were unnecessary, but nothing explicit).
It's insta-lust, borderline insta-obsession, on the H's part and the h is intrigued instantly from the first meeting. Since they agree to spend the holiday together, the h uses the opportunity to teach him how to be approachable so he can theoretically court a lady and also teach him about female pleasure, while he just revels in being near her and wants her. The writing style and some details weren’t my favorite but the spirit of it was fun and I enjoyed it. They have a good connection, but I still felt like something was missing a bit between them. Possibly because everything happens so quickly (it is a novella) and I did wonder how future interactions with society would go because of the h's scandal. Props to his best friend and his mother though for immediately accepting her and being supportive. H also has an adorable, great big dog so immediate points for that too.
There is a third act separation, but the H doesn't let it stand and goes to get his girl. He also delivers with a grand gesture. The epilogue is a few days later and is cute while providing some more steam. The author does have a second epilogue that she says will be available in January for newsletter subscribers.
December 4, 2023
I LOVED THIS.
Franny and Kit.
Swoon.
The chemistry is flying off the page - do they lust after one another? Absolutely. BUT they also seem to REALLY REALLY REALLY like the other person. She thinks he is lovely and kind and oh so very handsome. He thinks she is funny and brilliant. He loves her gap-toothed smile and her womanly shape. He adores her laugh. He falls fast, and hard and just wants HER.
This is a short little holiday novella - our mains meet in a carriage. Their meetcute is full of intense stares, hearty laughter, and a meat-pie or two.
Their second meetcute involves a dog and a bed.
They are simply scrumptious. I love how Kit wants to be better for Franny (he's neurodiverse - and so it sounds like he has only connected with a handful of people in his life).
And Franny.
Oh Franny is probably my favourite female main character that Felicity Niven has written. She is full of hope, joy, kindness and understanding. She also stands up for herself and spreads holiday cheer to all around her.
I'd say it is not as spicy as Bed Me, Duke or Bed Me, Earl - but it works perfectly the way it is. We have lots of kissing. Lots of talking. And so much love. (And when they do finally DO do the deed - it sure is memorable).
Thank you Felicity Niven for the ARC in return for my honest review. I think you know by now that I throughly enjoy reading your books. They always bring a smile to my face and make me swoon a little. This one absolutely did not dissapoint.
Recommended!
Franny and Kit.
Swoon.
The chemistry is flying off the page - do they lust after one another? Absolutely. BUT they also seem to REALLY REALLY REALLY like the other person. She thinks he is lovely and kind and oh so very handsome. He thinks she is funny and brilliant. He loves her gap-toothed smile and her womanly shape. He adores her laugh. He falls fast, and hard and just wants HER.
This is a short little holiday novella - our mains meet in a carriage. Their meetcute is full of intense stares, hearty laughter, and a meat-pie or two.
Their second meetcute involves a dog and a bed.
They are simply scrumptious. I love how Kit wants to be better for Franny (he's neurodiverse - and so it sounds like he has only connected with a handful of people in his life).
And Franny.
Oh Franny is probably my favourite female main character that Felicity Niven has written. She is full of hope, joy, kindness and understanding. She also stands up for herself and spreads holiday cheer to all around her.
I'd say it is not as spicy as Bed Me, Duke or Bed Me, Earl - but it works perfectly the way it is. We have lots of kissing. Lots of talking. And so much love. (And when they do finally DO do the deed - it sure is memorable).
Thank you Felicity Niven for the ARC in return for my honest review. I think you know by now that I throughly enjoy reading your books. They always bring a smile to my face and make me swoon a little. This one absolutely did not dissapoint.
Recommended!
December 8, 2023
4 stars
Historical novella about a neurodivergent duke and the sunshine-y woman who somehow ends up giving him kissing lessons.
This had quite a few moments/sensibilities which were too modern for a historical romance, but it was still a fun read with high entertainment value. (I do wish a certain character got more of a comeuppance though, even if it’s not in the Christmas spirit.)
I was also intrigued by Felicity Niven’s writing style. Not what I was expecting (it’s more… direct or crude or at times, but also tongue-in-cheek?), but I did end up liking it.
Historical novella about a neurodivergent duke and the sunshine-y woman who somehow ends up giving him kissing lessons.
This had quite a few moments/sensibilities which were too modern for a historical romance, but it was still a fun read with high entertainment value. (I do wish a certain character got more of a comeuppance though, even if it’s not in the Christmas spirit.)
I was also intrigued by Felicity Niven’s writing style. Not what I was expecting (it’s more… direct or crude or at times, but also tongue-in-cheek?), but I did end up liking it.
November 27, 2023
I had high expectations for Duke the Halls as I had heard nothing but good things about Felicity Niven's writing. What I was not expecting, was for it to necessitate a difficult conversation with my husband, because while he's pretty great, the Duke of Kittredge now has my heart.
I always have a soft spot for a hero who isn't smooth or charming and Kitt is none of those things. He is, however, incredibly kind and very gone for Franny almost immediately. I loved seeing Franny through his eyes because he just likes everything about her so much.
I also really liked Franny and the fact that even though she hasn't had the easiest life, she hasn't let go of her spirit. She laughs too much and spends money she shouldn't be buying pies for strangers. She and Kitt complement each other so well!
If you are a fan of historical romance do yourself a favor and pick up Duke the Halls this holiday season. It was my first Felicity Niven read and I have clearly been missing out on a wonderful writer. I can't wait to try more of her books!
Thanks to Felicity Niven for allowing me to read this one early in order to write a review. All opinions are my own.
I always have a soft spot for a hero who isn't smooth or charming and Kitt is none of those things. He is, however, incredibly kind and very gone for Franny almost immediately. I loved seeing Franny through his eyes because he just likes everything about her so much.
I also really liked Franny and the fact that even though she hasn't had the easiest life, she hasn't let go of her spirit. She laughs too much and spends money she shouldn't be buying pies for strangers. She and Kitt complement each other so well!
If you are a fan of historical romance do yourself a favor and pick up Duke the Halls this holiday season. It was my first Felicity Niven read and I have clearly been missing out on a wonderful writer. I can't wait to try more of her books!
Thanks to Felicity Niven for allowing me to read this one early in order to write a review. All opinions are my own.
November 29, 2023
I love a good holiday romance where one of the MCS receive lessons in how to love, just in time for a holiday miracle and Duke the Halls by Felicity Niven definitely delivers on this!
This grumpy/ sunshine romance stars an introverted neurodiverse duke doesn’t interact with people well and when serendipity puts the spunky and lively company who has lost her place in the ton is in need of his good graces. Picture a Grinch and Cindy Lou Who vibe without the creepy age gap!
As female acquaintance (other than his mother) who doesn’t seem to hate him, it seems fitting that she become his tutor in love and romance, in order to help him find a wife this holiday season! Andrea of course those lessons include kissing!!!
It can be difficult to get all the necessary elements of a great romance into a novella, but Niven manages to fully illustrate these characters, their histories and build their relationship. Not only that, she manages to include a subversive element of humour to these characters that made me love them all the more! I mean, who doesn’t love a hero whose best friend is his dog!
Duke the Halls By Felicity Niven, and is part of the How The Rake Stole Christmas, a steamy Regency novella collection and needs to be added to your holiday season TBR!
Available December 5th!
Thanks to author Felicity Niven for my eBook review copy. Opinions are my own.
This grumpy/ sunshine romance stars an introverted neurodiverse duke doesn’t interact with people well and when serendipity puts the spunky and lively company who has lost her place in the ton is in need of his good graces. Picture a Grinch and Cindy Lou Who vibe without the creepy age gap!
As female acquaintance (other than his mother) who doesn’t seem to hate him, it seems fitting that she become his tutor in love and romance, in order to help him find a wife this holiday season! Andrea of course those lessons include kissing!!!
It can be difficult to get all the necessary elements of a great romance into a novella, but Niven manages to fully illustrate these characters, their histories and build their relationship. Not only that, she manages to include a subversive element of humour to these characters that made me love them all the more! I mean, who doesn’t love a hero whose best friend is his dog!
Duke the Halls By Felicity Niven, and is part of the How The Rake Stole Christmas, a steamy Regency novella collection and needs to be added to your holiday season TBR!
Available December 5th!
Thanks to author Felicity Niven for my eBook review copy. Opinions are my own.
December 12, 2023
Frothy, irreverent, fun. Pure fantasy, with insta-lust to forever love in a nanosecond but peppered with enough small, delightful, intimate moments to sell it. Ambrose is going to be a lot of work in the coming years, but Franny seems up to the task and he’ll be worth it.
My first book by this author and I’ll try another because there was more to like than dislike, but I really look for a little more grit in my love stories.
My first book by this author and I’ll try another because there was more to like than dislike, but I really look for a little more grit in my love stories.
November 24, 2023
ARC REVIEW (Thanks Felicity!)
Am I becoming a whore for Christmas time novellas?! I think so! God this was so good. Franny is going to help Kit win himself a wife and in exchange kit is going to give Frannys brother the best fuckin’ Christmas ever.
As with every other Niven novel I’ve read, it’s the little things that make it sweet. The way every character is nuanced makes the story and romance relatable and believable. Kit is made out by the ton to be an “arsehole” but he’s really not- he just can’t be bothered with anyone and especially the holidays. Honestly?, same bro. Franny was the love child of Clark W. Griswold and Pandora Ravenel, she loves Christmas, she makes up her own words- she’s a breath of fresh air to Kit.
I do wish it was a little longer (it was a novella so what can you do) And The Semp had been given his comeuppance. Loved seeing known characters and the reasoning for the name of ***** made me cry a little 🥹
Am I becoming a whore for Christmas time novellas?! I think so! God this was so good. Franny is going to help Kit win himself a wife and in exchange kit is going to give Frannys brother the best fuckin’ Christmas ever.
As with every other Niven novel I’ve read, it’s the little things that make it sweet. The way every character is nuanced makes the story and romance relatable and believable. Kit is made out by the ton to be an “arsehole” but he’s really not- he just can’t be bothered with anyone and especially the holidays. Honestly?, same bro. Franny was the love child of Clark W. Griswold and Pandora Ravenel, she loves Christmas, she makes up her own words- she’s a breath of fresh air to Kit.
I do wish it was a little longer (it was a novella so what can you do) And The Semp had been given his comeuppance. Loved seeing known characters and the reasoning for the name of ***** made me cry a little 🥹
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2023
Yay, loved it! I am often grumpy about grumpy/sunshine, but Franny errs on the correct side of manic pixie dream girl and completely charmed me. She’s one of those characters who are so guilelessly straightforward and honest.
Kit was also charming in his socially awkward way, and I adored how he fell head over heels almost immediately.
This felt extremely Christmassy, which I am so happy about, and it made me smile many times. Also, when Kit unleashes the beast — 🔥 As with every Felicity Niven creation, this was a very horny book.
I would have happily spent another 200 pages with these characters.
Kit was also charming in his socially awkward way, and I adored how he fell head over heels almost immediately.
This felt extremely Christmassy, which I am so happy about, and it made me smile many times. Also, when Kit unleashes the beast — 🔥 As with every Felicity Niven creation, this was a very horny book.
I would have happily spent another 200 pages with these characters.
November 24, 2025
Reading this the same day I finished a Meredith Duran story was unfair. The writing is even worse when compared to Duran.
The characters were interesting in concept, but they slept together three days after meeting in a carriage and two days after she agrees to teach him to court a woman. The language is a little crass at time, making it feel like a contemporary romance at points.
This is wallpaper historical romance.
The characters were interesting in concept, but they slept together three days after meeting in a carriage and two days after she agrees to teach him to court a woman. The language is a little crass at time, making it feel like a contemporary romance at points.
This is wallpaper historical romance.
December 11, 2023
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of DUKE THE HALLS, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. While some Christmas novellas rush the romance or feature forgettable characters, this one does neither of those things. It’s long enough to develop a believable romance arc but short enough to easily read in a single day.
Both the lead characters are memorable. Kit (the Duke of Kittredge) believes himself to be an “arsehole” because he frequently says the wrong thing, has unpredictable fits of bad temper, and all of his interactions with women end in disaster. (Today, Kit would be considered autistic, but in his own time period that diagnosis did not exist.) Though he promised his mother he would try to find a bride, Kit’s anxiety about social interactions leads him to run away from a holiday house party at which he would have been the prime matrimonial catch. On the stage coach back to London, he meets Franny (aka Francesca Cranwell), an orphaned young woman who remains good-humored and optimistic despite a particularly cruel twist of fate that deprived her of her expected social position and inheritance.
Kit and Franny have immediate chemistry, so it’s not really a surprise that when Franny offers to teach Kit the social graces necessary to court a woman, he accepts. Their lessons include not just conversation, compliments, and dancing, but also kissing under the mistletoe that eventually leads to more than kissing . . . but their differing social positions seem to prevent their encounter from being any more than a fling. Can Kit face his greatest fear (i.e. a formal social event) to win the love of his life?
This novella contains good autism rep, leads with chemistry, mistletoe and holiday cheer, plus a couple of great steamy scenes.
The ebook releases December 4.
Both the lead characters are memorable. Kit (the Duke of Kittredge) believes himself to be an “arsehole” because he frequently says the wrong thing, has unpredictable fits of bad temper, and all of his interactions with women end in disaster. (Today, Kit would be considered autistic, but in his own time period that diagnosis did not exist.) Though he promised his mother he would try to find a bride, Kit’s anxiety about social interactions leads him to run away from a holiday house party at which he would have been the prime matrimonial catch. On the stage coach back to London, he meets Franny (aka Francesca Cranwell), an orphaned young woman who remains good-humored and optimistic despite a particularly cruel twist of fate that deprived her of her expected social position and inheritance.
Kit and Franny have immediate chemistry, so it’s not really a surprise that when Franny offers to teach Kit the social graces necessary to court a woman, he accepts. Their lessons include not just conversation, compliments, and dancing, but also kissing under the mistletoe that eventually leads to more than kissing . . . but their differing social positions seem to prevent their encounter from being any more than a fling. Can Kit face his greatest fear (i.e. a formal social event) to win the love of his life?
This novella contains good autism rep, leads with chemistry, mistletoe and holiday cheer, plus a couple of great steamy scenes.
The ebook releases December 4.
December 18, 2023
This was a very fun read! I loved the banter between the characters and I just loved that proposal scene and how he just wanted to give her everything!
He fell first and bad! 🥰🥰
He fell first and bad! 🥰🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 29, 2023
If you already love Felicity Niven then I expect you will thoroughly enjoy Duke the Halls as a prequel Christmas novella to the Bed Me series. New to this author? Then get ready to have fun with Franny and Kit. As someone who has read all of the Bed Me books, I enjoyed seeing certain characters personalities on display as friends to the Duke of Kittredge. This can easily be read as a standalone, but the connections are woven throughout each story.
I immediately liked Kit. As a Duke, he’s in search of a wife, but because of his arsehole-ness (his word) he just can’t seem to find one to tolerate him. I’d be a grouch too if I couldn’t make sense of why no one wanted to marry me. Enter Franny. She’s light and sunshine and a giver of meat pies (Really. That’s not a euphemism). Franny sees Kit. She gets Kit. And it doesn’t hurt that she’s a little enthralled by him, without, it’s important to note, pity. As a means of helping him catch a bride, Franny offers to teach Kit how to woo a woman. For those that know, Niven is excellent at writing bedding lessons. She is so good at exploring sexuality and makes no bones about characters speaking openly and frequently about their sexual desires. To be honest this book was perfect. Franny understands Kit’s “problem” and because of this, Kit falls head over heels for Franny. This book was so steamy, so sweet, and thoroughly entertaining. If you’re looking for all of this in a holiday novella, pick it up because you won’t be disappointed. I received this advanced copy courtesy of the author. All opinions are my own.
I immediately liked Kit. As a Duke, he’s in search of a wife, but because of his arsehole-ness (his word) he just can’t seem to find one to tolerate him. I’d be a grouch too if I couldn’t make sense of why no one wanted to marry me. Enter Franny. She’s light and sunshine and a giver of meat pies (Really. That’s not a euphemism). Franny sees Kit. She gets Kit. And it doesn’t hurt that she’s a little enthralled by him, without, it’s important to note, pity. As a means of helping him catch a bride, Franny offers to teach Kit how to woo a woman. For those that know, Niven is excellent at writing bedding lessons. She is so good at exploring sexuality and makes no bones about characters speaking openly and frequently about their sexual desires. To be honest this book was perfect. Franny understands Kit’s “problem” and because of this, Kit falls head over heels for Franny. This book was so steamy, so sweet, and thoroughly entertaining. If you’re looking for all of this in a holiday novella, pick it up because you won’t be disappointed. I received this advanced copy courtesy of the author. All opinions are my own.
December 16, 2023
What a wonderful gem of a novella! 🎉
This story begins with the sort of bang that has become synonymous with the infamous BED ME series and, as ever, I am here for it and a half! 💥💥💥
However, this cozy novella turns the overarching series trope on its head in that the HERO is the one who requires lessons from the heroine (not the other way around) in this case. And what a wonderful turn of the tables it ends up being! Kittredge is an endearingly apt pupil, and Franny is so dratted precious with her enduring hopefulness and her kindness--I challenge you not to want to protect her at all costs! 🥹 Their chemistry sizzles off the page from the moment they meet in that stage coach and continues to smolder into an inferno all throughout. The result is that potent combination of a story that is both deliciously steamy and heartwarmingly cozy. 🔥☕️
And, if you are a fan of the heroes in the BED ME and LOVELOCKS OF LONDON series (which you can only not be if you haven't read their stories yet because HOW can you not be if you have?) you'll certainly appreciate the various cameos. 😉
HOW Felicity Niven keeps gifting us with hit after absolute hit will never cease to amaze or delight me. I shall be here, cheerleading from the sidelines that she PLEASE keep them coming! 🤞
*I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC, but all opinions are most assuredly my own.
This story begins with the sort of bang that has become synonymous with the infamous BED ME series and, as ever, I am here for it and a half! 💥💥💥
However, this cozy novella turns the overarching series trope on its head in that the HERO is the one who requires lessons from the heroine (not the other way around) in this case. And what a wonderful turn of the tables it ends up being! Kittredge is an endearingly apt pupil, and Franny is so dratted precious with her enduring hopefulness and her kindness--I challenge you not to want to protect her at all costs! 🥹 Their chemistry sizzles off the page from the moment they meet in that stage coach and continues to smolder into an inferno all throughout. The result is that potent combination of a story that is both deliciously steamy and heartwarmingly cozy. 🔥☕️
And, if you are a fan of the heroes in the BED ME and LOVELOCKS OF LONDON series (which you can only not be if you haven't read their stories yet because HOW can you not be if you have?) you'll certainly appreciate the various cameos. 😉
HOW Felicity Niven keeps gifting us with hit after absolute hit will never cease to amaze or delight me. I shall be here, cheerleading from the sidelines that she PLEASE keep them coming! 🤞
*I was fortunate enough to receive an ARC, but all opinions are most assuredly my own.
November 27, 2023
The absolute glow I have right now, it is simply scrumptious! I adore Felicity Nivens writing, but she has gone above and beyond with this wonderous tale. I have felt a complete cacophony of emotions in such a short story. I cannot even count the number of times I found myself kicking my feet and giggling in glee like a schoolgirl. From the start I completely understood Franny’s appreciation of Kit. He is awkwardly gruff, but it was so apparent that it was not distasteful but misunderstanding. IT is all a matter of translation, he doesn’t translate well to others and he mistranslates them as well. Franny is his perfect translator though as she simply “gets him” as few others have. Truly only Dagenham, Bevel & his mother have been his constants, loving him in spite of himself. Franny unlocks the tender emotion in Kit and the transformation is remarkable! I read the end of this absolutely delightful, beautiful, fantabulucious story giggling with tears in my eyes. This was the best, absolutely giddy-inducing present I have ever opened! Kit & Franny are the most splendidly adorable couple I think I’ve ever read. They absolutely are the perfect couple and my only complaint is that I have to wait until January for a second epilogue as I may never get enough of these two! If you doubt my words, let the numbers speak for me. In a story of 140 pages, I have 64 highlights marked and 24 notes scrolled in the margins. Feelings captured for future read-throughs, for I will definitely come back to this story again and again.
December 4, 2023
"Duke the Halls" by Felicity Niven
.
Cover rating: 4/5
Story: 5/5
Steam: 🔥 🔥(+solo, kissing)
Ending: HEA w/ Epilogue
.
England, 1817
Surly Bespectacled Duke
Kindly Lady's Companion
Grumpy/Sunshine
Opposites Attract
Christmas Novella
Teach Me Vibes
Close Proximity
Instant Attraction
.
First read authored by Felicity Nivens. I have been wanting to read the "Bed Me" series but was feeling like I was already behind as three books have been released. After I found out she would be releasing a Christmas novella that would act as a prequel to the series, I jumped at the chance to dive into the series.
I absolutely love how we get SO much perspective from both of the main characters. Try as many authors might, HRs are often more one-sided than not. I also enjoyed that we didn't get multiple overlapping perspectives, which is something I find exhausting in books. This title made the most out of the page length for a novella and focused on the main plot without unnecessary side happenings that didn't assist in the main plot moving forward. I tried hard to find something less than stellar about this title, but I just can't find any faults.
There were some heartfelt moments that I was not expecting at all! Fans of books without angst will enjoy this one. It's hard to have angst between characters when one of them is just such a sweet-natured person.
As for steam, it's wonderful. Nivens mostly uses more explicit language with a bit of alluded to phrasing, but this is not a flowery approach by any means. We get to see a bit of something we don't often see in HRs, but I won't give away any spoilers!
.
Read as a complimentary ARC eBook provided by author. Honest review left voluntarily.
.
Content Warning- please see author's web page for more information.
.
Cover rating: 4/5
Story: 5/5
Steam: 🔥 🔥(+solo, kissing)
Ending: HEA w/ Epilogue
.
England, 1817
Surly Bespectacled Duke
Kindly Lady's Companion
Grumpy/Sunshine
Opposites Attract
Christmas Novella
Teach Me Vibes
Close Proximity
Instant Attraction
.
First read authored by Felicity Nivens. I have been wanting to read the "Bed Me" series but was feeling like I was already behind as three books have been released. After I found out she would be releasing a Christmas novella that would act as a prequel to the series, I jumped at the chance to dive into the series.
I absolutely love how we get SO much perspective from both of the main characters. Try as many authors might, HRs are often more one-sided than not. I also enjoyed that we didn't get multiple overlapping perspectives, which is something I find exhausting in books. This title made the most out of the page length for a novella and focused on the main plot without unnecessary side happenings that didn't assist in the main plot moving forward. I tried hard to find something less than stellar about this title, but I just can't find any faults.
There were some heartfelt moments that I was not expecting at all! Fans of books without angst will enjoy this one. It's hard to have angst between characters when one of them is just such a sweet-natured person.
As for steam, it's wonderful. Nivens mostly uses more explicit language with a bit of alluded to phrasing, but this is not a flowery approach by any means. We get to see a bit of something we don't often see in HRs, but I won't give away any spoilers!
.
Read as a complimentary ARC eBook provided by author. Honest review left voluntarily.
.
Content Warning- please see author's web page for more information.
December 11, 2023
This is a solid and lovely little novella. The writing is smooth and so easy to read, and the story trips along nicely to a satisfying conclusion. It’s a very fast-paced romance – definitely a bit instalove, but for a Christmassy novella, it works really nicely.
Franny is a really fun, strong character, and the contrast between her and Kit is very good. He’s such a grumpy figure but he’s also so, so sweet and it’s so clear that he wants to do better for Franny. She’s so good for him and their dynamic is really entertaining. Their chemistry is good and the sex scenes are hot and well-written, very sensual.
Naturally, this book is quite light on plot, but it’s fine for what it is – the book is light and fluffy, and it feels really warm and Christmassy. Overall just a lovely little read.
Content Notes: Grumpy/sunshine, seasonal (Christmas), instalove/instalust.
Warnings:
Other: .
Franny is a really fun, strong character, and the contrast between her and Kit is very good. He’s such a grumpy figure but he’s also so, so sweet and it’s so clear that he wants to do better for Franny. She’s so good for him and their dynamic is really entertaining. Their chemistry is good and the sex scenes are hot and well-written, very sensual.
Naturally, this book is quite light on plot, but it’s fine for what it is – the book is light and fluffy, and it feels really warm and Christmassy. Overall just a lovely little read.
Content Notes: Grumpy/sunshine, seasonal (Christmas), instalove/instalust.
Warnings:
Other: .
December 7, 2023
Oh sigh, this book is a Christmas treat! Felicity Niven has created a novella that I am sure, I will be re-reading every Christmas.
I loved the grumpy Duke of Kittredge with the sunshine, Franny Cranhill. Both characters were a delight and they were open and accepting of each other's quirks.
It had rags to riches story and I loved that the heroine was the more experienced sexually and educated the Hero what she liked in the bedroom. Oh and this novella is steamy for a novella. Niven never disappoints with bringing the steam!
I am eagerly awaiting her next release.
I received an arc for free by the author and this opinion is my own and review has been submitted voluntarily.
I loved the grumpy Duke of Kittredge with the sunshine, Franny Cranhill. Both characters were a delight and they were open and accepting of each other's quirks.
It had rags to riches story and I loved that the heroine was the more experienced sexually and educated the Hero what she liked in the bedroom. Oh and this novella is steamy for a novella. Niven never disappoints with bringing the steam!
I am eagerly awaiting her next release.
I received an arc for free by the author and this opinion is my own and review has been submitted voluntarily.
December 2, 2023
This novella was adorable, sweet, and funny. It was the perfect length for a light-hearted holiday story… I spent my Sunday afternoon devouring it. Felicity’s characters are so rich and unexpected (Kit is neurodivergent before it was recognized and Franny is an adorable woman who makes up words and see the good in everyone), and I love everything she has written! Can’t wait for the extended epilogue to drop in January because I need more Franny and Kit!
I received this as a free ARC from the author and this review is my own opinion.
I received this as a free ARC from the author and this review is my own opinion.
December 4, 2023
Absolutely wonderful, perfect steamy romance for the festive season. As always Felicity's books have a strong, intelligent female and Franny is no exception - although she is also a ray of sunshine. Enter the staid and serious Kit - who is unaware of his neurodiversity due to the time period. He's enchanted by Franny's outlook, and their chance meeting evolves into a gorgeously steamy and loving Christmas - with some added surprises along the way! Felicity's beautiful festive imagery makes this book a must read.
December 11, 2023
Felicity does it again.
If you haven't read "The Lovelocks of London" series, pick it up - not a dud in the bunch!
This novella is right up there with those books. It's spicy, it's transformative, and she packs a wallop of a story in 150 pages. It sets up the "Bed Me" books (3 out now and eventually, there will be 7) with the characters that play out in those books. Kit (AKA as "Duke of Kittredge" or "Ambrose") is your adorable grumpy duke who falls hard and fast for Franny (AKA Francesca or "Lady Francesca") on a stage coach. He falls in love with her slightly gapped tooth smile and her sweet laugh. She's also got a nice butt which he can't WAIT to get his hands on, literally and figuratively. He thinks he's lost her in the rookeries of London but come to find out, she was visiting her former housekeeper who's working at a duke's house....his. You get all the back story of her and all of his POV and her POV. The 3rd Act conflict and epilogue? *chef's kiss*
Absolutely loved Lovelocks of London and if this is the trajectory we're moving with the Bed Me books? I have a feeling I'm going to love those too!
If you haven't read "The Lovelocks of London" series, pick it up - not a dud in the bunch!
This novella is right up there with those books. It's spicy, it's transformative, and she packs a wallop of a story in 150 pages. It sets up the "Bed Me" books (3 out now and eventually, there will be 7) with the characters that play out in those books. Kit (AKA as "Duke of Kittredge" or "Ambrose") is your adorable grumpy duke who falls hard and fast for Franny (AKA Francesca or "Lady Francesca") on a stage coach. He falls in love with her slightly gapped tooth smile and her sweet laugh. She's also got a nice butt which he can't WAIT to get his hands on, literally and figuratively. He thinks he's lost her in the rookeries of London but come to find out, she was visiting her former housekeeper who's working at a duke's house....his. You get all the back story of her and all of his POV and her POV. The 3rd Act conflict and epilogue? *chef's kiss*
Absolutely loved Lovelocks of London and if this is the trajectory we're moving with the Bed Me books? I have a feeling I'm going to love those too!
November 29, 2023
Kit is not a ladies duke infact he repels them with his lack of social skills, so when his mother forces him to a ball in order to find a wife, he runs and ends up in a stage coach with Franny, the two hit it off and Franny becomes Kits teacher in social etiquet, but with a spark between them can they become more than student and teacher? well written steamy fesitive period romance
December 7, 2023
what a wonderful Christmas treat!
After discovering Felicity Niven 2 weeks I’ve read everything from her. Her writing makes me feel a joy about reading j haven’t felt in a long time. Every book is fantastic, and this was a wonderful festive story. About half the length of her other books I think, but just as compelling. Can’t wait for the newsletter exclusive story early 2024
After discovering Felicity Niven 2 weeks I’ve read everything from her. Her writing makes me feel a joy about reading j haven’t felt in a long time. Every book is fantastic, and this was a wonderful festive story. About half the length of her other books I think, but just as compelling. Can’t wait for the newsletter exclusive story early 2024
December 9, 2023
A fast but well written steamy novella
Was it really a novella? It felt like a full book for sure. All the books in this series of 12 days of Christmas novellas are turning to be such a treat. Kit and Franny are adorable especially Kit and I loved the ending , so bollywood 😍
Was it really a novella? It felt like a full book for sure. All the books in this series of 12 days of Christmas novellas are turning to be such a treat. Kit and Franny are adorable especially Kit and I loved the ending , so bollywood 😍
December 6, 2023
This was my first book written by the author and I definitely plan to read more! It was a great little holiday novella to kick off the Christmas season with. This had plenty of atmospheric Christmas charm present and still brought the steam. The story has very clear neurodivergent representation in the male MC without making it feel anachronistic. I loved how the FMC loved him just for who he was, but also helped him understand society and how to interact with people. The author chose to make the FMC a neologist, a person who makes up new words, this was the only part that did feel too cutesty and anachronistic to me. The ending also felt a little rushed, but that is probably because of it being a novella, instead of a full length book. I was impressed with how much heart she was able to develop in such a little space!
I did receive an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
I did receive an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
December 8, 2023
So good
I loved this book from beginning to end.. With a story involving a dog, plump heroine who gets a handsome Duke in the end and a happy Christmas.. What's not to love?
I loved this book from beginning to end.. With a story involving a dog, plump heroine who gets a handsome Duke in the end and a happy Christmas.. What's not to love?
December 12, 2023
This was such a cute story. The characters were adorable.
December 23, 2023
Squishy Christmas love
I loved this novella about teaching the stern, socially awkward Duke how to interact with "polite females". 😍 Franny is awesome
I loved this novella about teaching the stern, socially awkward Duke how to interact with "polite females". 😍 Franny is awesome
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