What do you think?
Rate this book
Princes of London #1
The Duke and Lady Scandal
In the swoon-worthy opener of her Princes of London series, Christy Carlyle takes readers on a breathless chase through Victorian London as a wild bluestocking from a family of treasure hunters and a handsome, serious gentleman from the Scotland Yard butt heads while attempting to thwart a plot to steal the Crown Jewels, inspired by National Treasure.
Alexandra Prince is clever, outspoken, and, yes, perhaps a bit impulsive. Yet she’s always been overshadowed by her siblings. While they are off on adventurous expeditions, she’s the one left to keep the family’s antique shop going while she works on a book about lady pirates—and longs for an adventure of her own. When she overhears a group of suspicious customers whispering about a plan to steal the Crown Jewels, she knows it’s her opportunity to shine. But she needs a little help.
Detective Inspector Benedict Drake takes his duties at Scotland Yard seriously. In fact, he takes almost everything seriously. Except for the breathless beauty who crashes into his office to tell him about a ludicrous scheme to steal the Crown Jewels. Despite his turning her away, she keeps popping up wherever he goes, and he’s not sure whether she’s determined to cause a scandal or is trying to drive him to distraction. Just when he thinks he’s rid of her, an event compels him to believe her account, and he begrudgingly enlists her aid to thwart the theft of the century.
But while thieves seek the Crown Jewels, the troublesome bluestocking he can’t seem to keep away from might just steal his heart…
Alexandra Prince is clever, outspoken, and, yes, perhaps a bit impulsive. Yet she’s always been overshadowed by her siblings. While they are off on adventurous expeditions, she’s the one left to keep the family’s antique shop going while she works on a book about lady pirates—and longs for an adventure of her own. When she overhears a group of suspicious customers whispering about a plan to steal the Crown Jewels, she knows it’s her opportunity to shine. But she needs a little help.
Detective Inspector Benedict Drake takes his duties at Scotland Yard seriously. In fact, he takes almost everything seriously. Except for the breathless beauty who crashes into his office to tell him about a ludicrous scheme to steal the Crown Jewels. Despite his turning her away, she keeps popping up wherever he goes, and he’s not sure whether she’s determined to cause a scandal or is trying to drive him to distraction. Just when he thinks he’s rid of her, an event compels him to believe her account, and he begrudgingly enlists her aid to thwart the theft of the century.
But while thieves seek the Crown Jewels, the troublesome bluestocking he can’t seem to keep away from might just steal his heart…
359 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published April 1, 2025
31 people are currently reading
1791 people want to read
About the author
Christy Carlyle
53 books556 followersFueled by Pacific Northwest coffee and inspired by multiple viewings of every British costume drama she can get her hands on, USA Today bestselling author Christy Carlyle writes sensual historical romance set in the Victorian era. She loves heroes who struggle against all odds and heroines who are ahead of their time. A former teacher with a degree in history, she finds there's nothing better than being able to combine her love of the past with a die-hard belief in happy endings.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
May 22, 2025
3.8 stars! ⭐️ Huge thanks to HarperAudio for the ALC via NetGalley 💌
Okayyy so I have a confession: when I first saw this, I deadass requested it just for the cover. It gave vintage scandal, flirty danger, maybe a sexy Duke?? The title literally had “duke” in it so I thought the mmc was gonna be some brooding nobleman or whatever. Then I opened the ALC, read the blurb, and… plot twist—he’s not a duke. He just gets called Duke as a joke at work. I felt bamboozled but intrigued.
So what’s it about?
Allie Prince runs her family’s antique shop while her siblings are off treasure-hunting across the world. She’s tired of being the one stuck behind, tired of waiting for her own adventure. Cue eavesdropping on some shady convo at a café about stealing the Crown Jewels. Naturally, she storms into Scotland Yard and demands to speak to someone. That someone is Ben “Duke” Drake, the straight-laced, rules-are-my-religion detective who thinks Allie’s wild theory is nonsense…until it’s not.
This book is basically:
National Treasure (but British) + Victorian London + girlboss antiquarian with main character energy + serious detective boy who learns to loosen up + just enough heisty chaos to keep you turning the page.
Tropes:
🕰️ Opposites Attract
🔍 Grumpy/Sunshine
🕰️ Heist/Adventure
🔍 Amateur Sleuth
🕰️ Mystery Solving Couple
🔍 Girlboss Heroine
🕰️ Detective Romance
Things I liked:
✧ Allie! She’s not a perfect heroine she’s impulsive, a lil chaotic, and occasionally does too much but she’s got heart.
✧ Ben/Duke was giving strong “I don’t like people but somehow I like you” vibes, and honestly I live for that.
✧ Karen Cass crushed the narration. She gave Allie so much personality and Ben such quiet depth.
✧ Loved that it wasn’t about rich nobility and ballrooms for once. A shopkeeper and a detective?? We’re eating.
But also...
✧ The romance? Cute. Sweet. But it was kind of instalovey and I wanted more tension. Like…give me a hallway stare. A "we almost touched hands" moment. Something!
✧ And listen…the cover gave spice, but the book? More like a light simmer. I’m not mad, just misled lol.
This was a fun & fast-paced read. Definitely not a flawless gem, but worth the read if you're into adventurous romances with strong leads and a dash of heist-y energy. I’ll check out the next book for sure—hoping we get deeper plots and maybe a sprinkle more heat.
Final verdict:
Unexpectedly sweet, mildly chaotic, and sprinkled with mystery. Allie and Ben had potential—they just needed a few more stolen glances and one less unresolved subplot.
Okayyy so I have a confession: when I first saw this, I deadass requested it just for the cover. It gave vintage scandal, flirty danger, maybe a sexy Duke?? The title literally had “duke” in it so I thought the mmc was gonna be some brooding nobleman or whatever. Then I opened the ALC, read the blurb, and… plot twist—he’s not a duke. He just gets called Duke as a joke at work. I felt bamboozled but intrigued.
So what’s it about?
Allie Prince runs her family’s antique shop while her siblings are off treasure-hunting across the world. She’s tired of being the one stuck behind, tired of waiting for her own adventure. Cue eavesdropping on some shady convo at a café about stealing the Crown Jewels. Naturally, she storms into Scotland Yard and demands to speak to someone. That someone is Ben “Duke” Drake, the straight-laced, rules-are-my-religion detective who thinks Allie’s wild theory is nonsense…until it’s not.
This book is basically:
National Treasure (but British) + Victorian London + girlboss antiquarian with main character energy + serious detective boy who learns to loosen up + just enough heisty chaos to keep you turning the page.
Tropes:
🕰️ Opposites Attract
🔍 Grumpy/Sunshine
🕰️ Heist/Adventure
🔍 Amateur Sleuth
🕰️ Mystery Solving Couple
🔍 Girlboss Heroine
🕰️ Detective Romance
Things I liked:
✧ Allie! She’s not a perfect heroine she’s impulsive, a lil chaotic, and occasionally does too much but she’s got heart.
✧ Ben/Duke was giving strong “I don’t like people but somehow I like you” vibes, and honestly I live for that.
✧ Karen Cass crushed the narration. She gave Allie so much personality and Ben such quiet depth.
✧ Loved that it wasn’t about rich nobility and ballrooms for once. A shopkeeper and a detective?? We’re eating.
But also...
✧ The romance? Cute. Sweet. But it was kind of instalovey and I wanted more tension. Like…give me a hallway stare. A "we almost touched hands" moment. Something!
✧ And listen…the cover gave spice, but the book? More like a light simmer. I’m not mad, just misled lol.
This was a fun & fast-paced read. Definitely not a flawless gem, but worth the read if you're into adventurous romances with strong leads and a dash of heist-y energy. I’ll check out the next book for sure—hoping we get deeper plots and maybe a sprinkle more heat.
Final verdict:
Unexpectedly sweet, mildly chaotic, and sprinkled with mystery. Allie and Ben had potential—they just needed a few more stolen glances and one less unresolved subplot.
May 13, 2025
It’s good enough to read for the cover alone if I’m being honest. It was cute with some intrigue, but the romance was a definitely instalovey and that threw me off balance a bit. The mystery was truly a mystery…and may still be a mystery…? The motive still confuses me but it was entertaining nonetheless. Bonus points for being inspired by National Treasure despite not much feeling like it.
The audiobook and narrator, Karen Cass, were great. Definitely a narrator I’ll keep an eye on.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I received a free digital review copy from the publisher. All opinions are honest and my own.
The audiobook and narrator, Karen Cass, were great. Definitely a narrator I’ll keep an eye on.
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️/5
I received a free digital review copy from the publisher. All opinions are honest and my own.
March 5, 2025
Victorian times! Middle class characters! This was a fun one.
Allie (Alexandra) Pierce comes from a family of adventurous antique dealers. She was sick as a child and never traveled the way her siblings got to. As an adult, she runs the family shop while her older brother and sister hunt for antiquities. For once, though, she’s going to have an adventure of her own.
Benedict Drake (jokingly called Duke at work) is a police inspector who has been working exhaustively to get a promotion that never seems to get closer.
Allie and Ben come together when she reports overhearing men plotting to steal the Crown Jewels while at a coffee shop. One of the men also visited her family’s antique shop to ask about having a gem cut. Her shop had a break in as well.
Allie and Ben grow closer as he investigates the jewel theft and its connection to another case. She confesses that she isn’t sure about getting married, but would like to have an affair with Ben.
I love it when there’s a bit of a mystery in a romance! The pace was fast, the characters appealing, and the setting was a nice departure from the regency, which seems to dominate this genre. It’s also refreshing that we have a shopkeeper and a detective (though there are hints that Ben is the illegitimate son of someone important).
Allie (Alexandra) Pierce comes from a family of adventurous antique dealers. She was sick as a child and never traveled the way her siblings got to. As an adult, she runs the family shop while her older brother and sister hunt for antiquities. For once, though, she’s going to have an adventure of her own.
Benedict Drake (jokingly called Duke at work) is a police inspector who has been working exhaustively to get a promotion that never seems to get closer.
Allie and Ben come together when she reports overhearing men plotting to steal the Crown Jewels while at a coffee shop. One of the men also visited her family’s antique shop to ask about having a gem cut. Her shop had a break in as well.
Allie and Ben grow closer as he investigates the jewel theft and its connection to another case. She confesses that she isn’t sure about getting married, but would like to have an affair with Ben.
I love it when there’s a bit of a mystery in a romance! The pace was fast, the characters appealing, and the setting was a nice departure from the regency, which seems to dominate this genre. It’s also refreshing that we have a shopkeeper and a detective (though there are hints that Ben is the illegitimate son of someone important).
April 15, 2025
4.5/5⭐️listened the audiobook in one sitting and was throughly entertained. loved every second of it. reminded me a lot of sarah maclean books actually! she’s part of a family of archivists and he’s a detective. they team up because of a plot to steal the crown jewels naturally - i loved Ben so much and of course the heroine and i share the same first name so i loved her too. ben said he loves her full name alexandra because it’s luxurious and complicated like her and i think that’s the most romantic thing i’ve ever heard. low on spice but everything else was so good that i hardly noticed.
January 2, 2025
National treasure meets late Victorian romance? Impulsive antique shopkeeper eager for adventure and a stuffy Scotland Yard inspector eager for a promotion are wrapped up in a heist? Sign me up.
Some of the introspection and exposition slowed the pace. I often found myself wishing Allie or Drake would stop thinking about doing something and go do it. But once the action got moving, the story progresses well and the development of their attraction and relationship is very believable. Allie’s fear of being left behind due to an isolating childhood illness was really underdeveloped. The mystery was good even though the ending was rushed, but I wish the hint of a National Treasure-esque heist in the description hadn’t been used because this mystery was nothing like that.
Some historical and title errors and homonym errors distracted me. Still, I liked this author’s voice and I’ll read the next in the series.
3.5 stars I received an arc from NetGalley
Some of the introspection and exposition slowed the pace. I often found myself wishing Allie or Drake would stop thinking about doing something and go do it. But once the action got moving, the story progresses well and the development of their attraction and relationship is very believable. Allie’s fear of being left behind due to an isolating childhood illness was really underdeveloped. The mystery was good even though the ending was rushed, but I wish the hint of a National Treasure-esque heist in the description hadn’t been used because this mystery was nothing like that.
Some historical and title errors and homonym errors distracted me. Still, I liked this author’s voice and I’ll read the next in the series.
3.5 stars I received an arc from NetGalley
November 5, 2025
Solid. I do love an adventure plot and this was a fun mystery.
Whats to love...
- slow burn
- yearning
- stolen touches
- adventure / mystery plot
- stolen jewels
- Only uses her full name
As for the audiobook, not a huge fan. The narrator pauses were a bit lengthy and it made it difficult to find an enjoyable listening speed.
4⭐️| IG | TikTok |
Whats to love...
- slow burn
- yearning
- stolen touches
- adventure / mystery plot
- stolen jewels
- Only uses her full name
As for the audiobook, not a huge fan. The narrator pauses were a bit lengthy and it made it difficult to find an enjoyable listening speed.
4⭐️| IG | TikTok |
June 2, 2025
Will be in my next vlog
February 12, 2025
I’ve been loving Christy’s books, so I was really excited to see that she was starting a new series.
I loved Alexandra and Ben. They’re both hardworking and good, but also lonely. They have an instant interest that organically morphs into more and I loved reading them work together to solve the case. Of course, I could have done with a bit more conversation between them as it didn’t quite feel like they actually knew that much about each other, but it was also easy to overlook.
Plot wise, it’s good. I enjoyed the different layers of the case and how each piece of it played the part. Ben listening to Alexandra and letting her decide for herself was an added bonus and it was even better when she didn’t quite listen to his “demands”.
Overall, this was a quick read that had me hooked from the start. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series plays out and I’ll be over here hoping we get more of these two in the next books.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
I loved Alexandra and Ben. They’re both hardworking and good, but also lonely. They have an instant interest that organically morphs into more and I loved reading them work together to solve the case. Of course, I could have done with a bit more conversation between them as it didn’t quite feel like they actually knew that much about each other, but it was also easy to overlook.
Plot wise, it’s good. I enjoyed the different layers of the case and how each piece of it played the part. Ben listening to Alexandra and letting her decide for herself was an added bonus and it was even better when she didn’t quite listen to his “demands”.
Overall, this was a quick read that had me hooked from the start. I can’t wait to see how the rest of the series plays out and I’ll be over here hoping we get more of these two in the next books.
**Huge thanks to the publisher for providing the arc free of charge**
April 3, 2025
The Duke and Lady Scandal is the first book in a new historical romance series, Princes of London, by Christy Carlyle. I think this might be the first book I’ve read from this author? But I’ve had some others from her on my shelf for a while to get to.
This is a historical romance set in Victorian London and it’s described as being inspired by National Treasure! We have a bluestocking from a family of treasure hunters and detective from the Scotland Yard who butt heads while attempting to thwart a plot to steal the Crown Jewels!
Alexandra Prince is from a family of adventurers who also own an antiquity shop, Detective Inspector Benedict Drake works at Scotland Yard and takes his work very seriously. They have to work together and fall along the way. This one was okay for me. The cover is stunning firstly and the premise was fun! I also like historicals set outside regency ballrooms and nobility, so this gives all of that. All in all, I just wasn’t super in love with the characters enough for the story. I’d probably still check out more from this author though, I have some of their backlist historicals to try one day.
This is a historical romance set in Victorian London and it’s described as being inspired by National Treasure! We have a bluestocking from a family of treasure hunters and detective from the Scotland Yard who butt heads while attempting to thwart a plot to steal the Crown Jewels!
Alexandra Prince is from a family of adventurers who also own an antiquity shop, Detective Inspector Benedict Drake works at Scotland Yard and takes his work very seriously. They have to work together and fall along the way. This one was okay for me. The cover is stunning firstly and the premise was fun! I also like historicals set outside regency ballrooms and nobility, so this gives all of that. All in all, I just wasn’t super in love with the characters enough for the story. I’d probably still check out more from this author though, I have some of their backlist historicals to try one day.
April 6, 2025
I enjoyed reading it, but it could have been a thousand times better. The story had potential: a detective from SY and an antique shop owner find themselves together in a mystery involving a plot to steal the crown jewels.
Allie is tired of being left behind by her brother and sister and Ben is on the case about the mysterious M.
Well, to summarize: they fall in love and go to bed in 1 week (instant love doesn't work very well for me, I confess) and the "mystery", in the end, is solved and at the same time leaves many loose ends.
After all, who is Ben's father?
Why did the mysterious M become the mysterious M?
Seriously, this series would work better if it were focused only on Allie and Ben, you know? After all, no secondary character caught my attention to the point of wanting to read their story. And the spicy scenes aren't even that spicy (or maybe I'm just very naughty and used to dirty reading).
As I said at the beginning: I liked it, but it had potential for more.
Allie is tired of being left behind by her brother and sister and Ben is on the case about the mysterious M.
Well, to summarize: they fall in love and go to bed in 1 week (instant love doesn't work very well for me, I confess) and the "mystery", in the end, is solved and at the same time leaves many loose ends.
After all, who is Ben's father?
Why did the mysterious M become the mysterious M?
Seriously, this series would work better if it were focused only on Allie and Ben, you know? After all, no secondary character caught my attention to the point of wanting to read their story. And the spicy scenes aren't even that spicy (or maybe I'm just very naughty and used to dirty reading).
As I said at the beginning: I liked it, but it had potential for more.
September 27, 2024
Allie comes from a family of adventurers, and they also own an antiquity shop. Allie has never been on one of her family’s expeditions. She’s always left behind to run the store. However, one day she’s out to get coffee when she overhears a plan to steal the royal jewels. Ben is an ambitious detective who only has time to rise through the ranks. When he listens to Allie about what she heard, the two will become embroiled in their own adventure. Strong characters, a sweet romance, a little action, some intrigue….this has a little of everything. It works for this book. I love Christy’s writing and her stories, this is no exception. I do wonder why she never gave us the answer to something that was brought up a few times? (No spoilers) Just seemed like it was kinda important but never went anywhere.
May 12, 2025
Calling all fans of detectives in historical romance, this one is for you!
We open in late 1896 London with Detective Inspector Benedict Drake, nicknamed Duke, as he works to unravel a blackmail plot against the Prince of Wales. He succeeds but the ringleader gets away. Duke thinks he is at a dead end when Alexandra Prince bursts into his office to tell him about a plot she overheard at a coffee shop to steal the crown jewels. Alexandra's family is full of famous antiquarians and big personalities but Allie has always been left behind, first due to her health and now because someone has to run the family's antiques shop. At first Ben doesn't believe that Alexandra is telling the truth but as the mystery unfolds, it becomes clear that Allie's shop is tied up in the case Ben has been investigating.
The character work in this book is where Christy Carlyle's writing shines. This novel takes place over the course of a week, with the last couple of chapters moving into week two. Things move fast and we need as much information about who these characters are as possible to get onboard with their relationship. I think Christy Carlyle did a great job of starting each of their journeys in the right place. We start with Ben in the prologue and get to see him at work, see his dedication and ambition to his job before we dive into his personal life. Alexandra's story starts as she is being left behind by her siblings again, after she had already packed to go with them. We don't need to be told about how she's always been left out, we get to see it firsthand and watch as Allie deals with her emotions. So when our two characters finally meet and we have a clear understanding of who they are and why they work so well together. Alexandra is very interested in how Ben thinks and does his job and he sees how smart and observant she is because she has had to be.
I enjoyed the mystery plot of this book up until just before the final confrontation. I didn't find the resolution to the criminal plot to be satisfying, even though I loved how Christy Carlyle wrapped up the action. I think this would have been a five star read had the ringleader been a more compelling character but as it was, I didn't feel anything towards this person or their motivation for their crimes. The challenge of writing a detective romance is you need both a compelling detective story and romance. I think we got a very compelling romance and 75% of a compelling detective story.
Even with my issue at the end of the book, I enjoyed this novel. I love late Victorian romances because the world was on the precipice of change and they give the heroines more room to grow. I'll definitely read the next book in this series when it comes out.
We open in late 1896 London with Detective Inspector Benedict Drake, nicknamed Duke, as he works to unravel a blackmail plot against the Prince of Wales. He succeeds but the ringleader gets away. Duke thinks he is at a dead end when Alexandra Prince bursts into his office to tell him about a plot she overheard at a coffee shop to steal the crown jewels. Alexandra's family is full of famous antiquarians and big personalities but Allie has always been left behind, first due to her health and now because someone has to run the family's antiques shop. At first Ben doesn't believe that Alexandra is telling the truth but as the mystery unfolds, it becomes clear that Allie's shop is tied up in the case Ben has been investigating.
The character work in this book is where Christy Carlyle's writing shines. This novel takes place over the course of a week, with the last couple of chapters moving into week two. Things move fast and we need as much information about who these characters are as possible to get onboard with their relationship. I think Christy Carlyle did a great job of starting each of their journeys in the right place. We start with Ben in the prologue and get to see him at work, see his dedication and ambition to his job before we dive into his personal life. Alexandra's story starts as she is being left behind by her siblings again, after she had already packed to go with them. We don't need to be told about how she's always been left out, we get to see it firsthand and watch as Allie deals with her emotions. So when our two characters finally meet and we have a clear understanding of who they are and why they work so well together. Alexandra is very interested in how Ben thinks and does his job and he sees how smart and observant she is because she has had to be.
I enjoyed the mystery plot of this book up until just before the final confrontation. I didn't find the resolution to the criminal plot to be satisfying, even though I loved how Christy Carlyle wrapped up the action. I think this would have been a five star read had the ringleader been a more compelling character but as it was, I didn't feel anything towards this person or their motivation for their crimes. The challenge of writing a detective romance is you need both a compelling detective story and romance. I think we got a very compelling romance and 75% of a compelling detective story.
Even with my issue at the end of the book, I enjoyed this novel. I love late Victorian romances because the world was on the precipice of change and they give the heroines more room to grow. I'll definitely read the next book in this series when it comes out.
April 29, 2025
Alexandra Prince has always felt overshadowed by her siblings. While they're off having adventures, Alexandra tends to the family business, dreaming of one day channeling the female pirates she admires. When Alexandra overhears a plot to steal the crown jewels, she knows this is her chance. Benedict Drake is an inspector at Scotland Yard and takes his job very seriously, so when a vivacious woman blows into his office about a ridiculous scheme, he brushes her off. Benedict thought that was the last time he'd see Alexandra, but their paths kept crossing, and when the theft Alexandra overheard turned out to be real, Benedict begrudgingly accepted her help. As the investigation heats up so does their chemistry, leaving Benedict to decide if he's willing to put his career at risk for love.
I've only read one other book by Carlyle before, but I've come to enjoy her writing. It's so easy to breeze through and I read this in one sitting. I liked our two main characters a lot. Alexandra was feisty and strong-willed, and Benedict was very focused and stoic. Their personalities were so different, but they balanced one another out perfectly. Their relationship was very insta-lovey, but that's usually the case with historical romances, so it doesn't bother me as much. I thought the plot was action-packed, and I liked watching Alexandra and Benedict team up to nab the bad guys. There wasn't a lot of depth to the story, but it was a fun time, and I was thoroughly entertained. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
I've only read one other book by Carlyle before, but I've come to enjoy her writing. It's so easy to breeze through and I read this in one sitting. I liked our two main characters a lot. Alexandra was feisty and strong-willed, and Benedict was very focused and stoic. Their personalities were so different, but they balanced one another out perfectly. Their relationship was very insta-lovey, but that's usually the case with historical romances, so it doesn't bother me as much. I thought the plot was action-packed, and I liked watching Alexandra and Benedict team up to nab the bad guys. There wasn't a lot of depth to the story, but it was a fun time, and I was thoroughly entertained. I'm looking forward to continuing the series.
May 27, 2025
[4.75]
I adored this!
The romance was so good! And the little bits of mystery too.
I adored this!
The romance was so good! And the little bits of mystery too.
did-not-finish
October 19, 2025I didn’t want to pick it up and I have too many historical romances on my tbr for that
December 24, 2024
This was a miss for me. It was a book that seemed as though it couldn't decide if it wanted to be a romance or a mystery & so both parts suffered because of it.
The romance was far too insta-love for my tastes. Lots of the romances I read have the couples fall in love very quickly but the heroine's suggestion to the hero seemed very out of character & his instant acquiescence also seemed out of character. There had to be another way to get these two people together without the machinations the author used.
The mystery (when finally solved at the end of the book) left so many things unanswered as to how things had been accomplished. It was all just too implausible.
The writing was fine, but the concept didn't work.
What a shame.
If it sounds like I'm being vague in this review I am as I don't wish to give away any spoilers. The things I had problems with may not bother another reader.
Thanks to netgalley & the publisher for an advance copy of this title.
The romance was far too insta-love for my tastes. Lots of the romances I read have the couples fall in love very quickly but the heroine's suggestion to the hero seemed very out of character & his instant acquiescence also seemed out of character. There had to be another way to get these two people together without the machinations the author used.
The mystery (when finally solved at the end of the book) left so many things unanswered as to how things had been accomplished. It was all just too implausible.
The writing was fine, but the concept didn't work.
What a shame.
If it sounds like I'm being vague in this review I am as I don't wish to give away any spoilers. The things I had problems with may not bother another reader.
Thanks to netgalley & the publisher for an advance copy of this title.
June 5, 2025
3.5🌟
The chemistry and banter were really good. It was heavy on the mystery part but was still a fun listen. My only complaint was that the mystery had some plot holes and that there wasn't much romantic development. Instead, it was more focused on sexual tension.
I am excited to read further from this author!
The chemistry and banter were really good. It was heavy on the mystery part but was still a fun listen. My only complaint was that the mystery had some plot holes and that there wasn't much romantic development. Instead, it was more focused on sexual tension.
I am excited to read further from this author!
March 31, 2025
3.5/5 This was an enjoyable story between a career minded Scotland Yard Inspector and an antique shop owner.
Allie and Ben meet in a chance encounter after Allie overhears a conversation about a potential plot to steal the Crown Jewels. I really liked the second half and it had me engrossed in the story.
Allie was often sick as a child and left out of family activities. Through habit, it has bled over into her adult life by once again being left behind by her older siblings as they go off on another exhibition. But her childhood has made her strong and independent.
Ben’s past has made him care a lot about justice and making a difference. I liked his character arc of going from a career driven individual to having his priorities rearranged after meeting Allie. I enjoyed their romance and love story.
However, the plot line outside the romance didn’t check the boxes for me. It was a bit of a slow start and felt I was left with more questions than answers on the details of the mystery plot.
Overall it was enjoyable and think most readers of historical romance would enjoy this story. Also, the cover for this book is gorgeous!
The Duke and Lady Scandal is the first book in the Princes of London series.
This was a new to me author. It didn’t read as a first book in a series. I’m not sure if this is interconnected with other series or not. There’s a few pieces that wasn’t explained and I’m not sure if it was explained in a previous book or if it will in a future book.
There was one encounter, several kisses, and an interrupted scene.
I received an advance reader copy via NetGalley. This review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
Allie and Ben meet in a chance encounter after Allie overhears a conversation about a potential plot to steal the Crown Jewels. I really liked the second half and it had me engrossed in the story.
Allie was often sick as a child and left out of family activities. Through habit, it has bled over into her adult life by once again being left behind by her older siblings as they go off on another exhibition. But her childhood has made her strong and independent.
Ben’s past has made him care a lot about justice and making a difference. I liked his character arc of going from a career driven individual to having his priorities rearranged after meeting Allie. I enjoyed their romance and love story.
However, the plot line outside the romance didn’t check the boxes for me. It was a bit of a slow start and felt I was left with more questions than answers on the details of the mystery plot.
Overall it was enjoyable and think most readers of historical romance would enjoy this story. Also, the cover for this book is gorgeous!
The Duke and Lady Scandal is the first book in the Princes of London series.
This was a new to me author. It didn’t read as a first book in a series. I’m not sure if this is interconnected with other series or not. There’s a few pieces that wasn’t explained and I’m not sure if it was explained in a previous book or if it will in a future book.
There was one encounter, several kisses, and an interrupted scene.
I received an advance reader copy via NetGalley. This review is left voluntarily and all opinions are my own.
June 9, 2025
I must admit, I'm a bit of a sucker for a Bow Street/Met Police, etc., detective or law enforcement hero and Ben delivered all the elements that make me like this type of hero. I loved that he was a little bit tortured, very driven, extremely protective, but also very lonely. Alexandra exhibited that same loneliness and I loved seeing her shake up his regimented life and challenge his ideas of what he wanted for his life. I loved that we had a hero and heroine who worked for a living, no titles in sight. I loved how Allie and Ben came together and established a true relationship without shying away from their feelings. Even when Ben was afraid of their closeness causing harm to Allie, she remained steadfast and refused to allow herself to be left out of anything ever again, even a potentially dangerous situation. I loved the chemistry between these two, the mystery element of the story and especially how sweet tough guy Ben was with Alexandera. My only complaint is a wish that Ben's superior got an on page telling off. I look forward to more installments in this series and this is a book I'd read again.
I both read and listened to this book. The narrator was one I've never heard before, but I really liked her and hope to see her doing more narrations in the future.
I voluntarily read and listened to an advanced/audio advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I both read and listened to this book. The narrator was one I've never heard before, but I really liked her and hope to see her doing more narrations in the future.
I voluntarily read and listened to an advanced/audio advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 6, 2025
Alexandra Prince is forever being left behind - first by her parents, then by her siblings who are always going off on adventures to find things for the unique antique shop they run. When Alexandra overhears a plot at a coffee shop near her shop about stealing the crown jewels, she knows she should heed her brother's warning and curb her impulses to jump to conclusions, but something in her gut tells her to report it. Scotland Yard Detective Inspector Benedict Drake is a driven man, with aspirations to continue his climb from impoverished household to Chief Inspector or beyond one day. Ben needs to figure out if his gut is telling him that this case is linked to his last blackmailing case, or if it's telling him he wants to spend more time with Alexandra...
This was such a fun, solid historical romance read. Sometimes you don't need a book that breaks barriers, you just need something with a determined heroine and a starchy inspector hero who want to solve a mystery and get back to the business of banging. At every turn, this book delivered what I hoped for: supportive friends, a solid villain, minor commentary on class difference and colonialism. I was pleased with the resolution and with the potential for future books with additional Prince siblings!
Thank you to LibroFM for an ALC! The Duke and Lady Scandal is out now!
This was such a fun, solid historical romance read. Sometimes you don't need a book that breaks barriers, you just need something with a determined heroine and a starchy inspector hero who want to solve a mystery and get back to the business of banging. At every turn, this book delivered what I hoped for: supportive friends, a solid villain, minor commentary on class difference and colonialism. I was pleased with the resolution and with the potential for future books with additional Prince siblings!
Thank you to LibroFM for an ALC! The Duke and Lady Scandal is out now!
October 31, 2025
This is my 11th book by Christy Carlyle. I read 3 of her books in 2016 and 3 more in 2019. I didn't pick her up again until May, 2025 with the Bridewell Sisters series. I didn't remember her being steamy from the books I had read in the past, but the Bridewell Sisters series although not 50 shades type steamy, the sex scenes were well written and perfect for the couple in the story and their personalities. I noticed book 2 of this series doesn't come out until March, 2026 but it's $12.00. I won't be getting it at that price so I hope the price gets reduced at some point later in 2026. Plus, this is petty I know but, I love a good book cover and I hate the cartoony aspect of the that book cover. Also as some of you know I'm a bit of a Regency snob. I do read Victorian and hope it doesn't read too modern. This book opens in 1896 and I automatically cringed. Hopefully it won't be too modern of an adventure. :)
So I actually loved this story. I loved Alexandra and Ben. I loved their personalities and how they were together. I loved their adventure and the suspense of it. Yes, it did read a bit modern at times but it was still a really good read. I am so glad I started picking up her books again. She will give you a really good read.
So I actually loved this story. I loved Alexandra and Ben. I loved their personalities and how they were together. I loved their adventure and the suspense of it. Yes, it did read a bit modern at times but it was still a really good read. I am so glad I started picking up her books again. She will give you a really good read.
February 15, 2025
If you're a fan of National Treasure, you'll love this book! From the start I was hooked, likely because I'm such a sucker for a looked-over bluestocking hellbent on solving a mystery. This book was so easy to get into and I think that has a lot to do with the character and the fun trying to uncover a jewelry heist plot. While there's a bit of instalust with Allie and Ben, they also have a lot in common and I don't mind the instalust when it's followed by actual moments of getting to know each other deeper. And these two definitely have those moments in this book. They understand each other and bond at such a fundamental level, it's easy to see how this instant-attraction turned into true love. I also love that neither of the protagonists were interested in finding love or marriage and truly were caught by surprise when this happened to them.
Fun mystery with an even better romance threaded throughout! I think this might be my favorite book by this author and, for sure, one of my favorite heist-related historical romances. I've already preordered this book and am so excited to dive in again. I think this is one that is easily re-readable and I'm even more excited to see where Carlyle takes this series. I really hope we get to see more from the Prince family- as I'm obsessed with this idea of a family of antique hunting experts!
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for providing an eARC.
Fun mystery with an even better romance threaded throughout! I think this might be my favorite book by this author and, for sure, one of my favorite heist-related historical romances. I've already preordered this book and am so excited to dive in again. I think this is one that is easily re-readable and I'm even more excited to see where Carlyle takes this series. I really hope we get to see more from the Prince family- as I'm obsessed with this idea of a family of antique hunting experts!
Thanks to NetGalley and publishers for providing an eARC.
May 5, 2025
Alexandra Prince is always left behind on her brother and sister's expedition trips, even though minding their shop, Prince's of London, makes her content and happy. Sitting in the coffee shop next door to Prince's, Alexandra overhears a conversation of plans to rob the crown jewels. Immediately she flees to Scotland Yard and meets Detective Inspector Benedict Drake. Though attracted to her, Ben doesn't take her seriously, until subtle clues lead to a mastermind known as M,
and puts Alexandra in danger. Like a game of chess, they must figure out how to stay ahead of his game. A passionate love story with a killer on the loose. Another interesting couple who fit together to solve crime.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
and puts Alexandra in danger. Like a game of chess, they must figure out how to stay ahead of his game. A passionate love story with a killer on the loose. Another interesting couple who fit together to solve crime.
Descriptive sex.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley.
May 15, 2025
An independent, excitable lady meets a hard, beautiful constable and the story ensues. I really enjoyed that there was a fast paced storyline to go along with the list and yearning. I’d say 2 🌶️ with a 4 for the story. I read it all in a little over a day was loved it. I can’t wait for the next story in the series and I am really hoping it’s of the FMC’s bff.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Audio Adult for this ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
Thanks to NetGalley and Harper Audio Adult for this ARC in exchange for my honest feedback.
dnf
April 14, 2025DNF at 38%
The premise of this book sounded so good, but I it's moving too slowly to keep me interested. I can only focus on it for a few minutes at a time before my mind starts wandering.
The premise of this book sounded so good, but I it's moving too slowly to keep me interested. I can only focus on it for a few minutes at a time before my mind starts wandering.
July 30, 2025
Fine, but somewhat forgetable
Read
November 18, 2025Dnf. This is unfortunately so boring. This markets itself as being inspired by national treasure but it’s such a loose comparison. Where is the adventure?????
April 28, 2025
Delightful
April 9, 2025
A romance where trouble finds the FMC, yes please, thank you. Allie overhears a plot to steal the Crown Jewels seeks the help of Inspector Benedict and together they resist each other while also investigating the mysterious group. I was captivated by the writing I could not put this book down, Allie and Ben were perfect for each other, he was down bad for her and I was here for it.
Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thank you to the publisher & NetGalley for an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 21, 2025
The Duke and Lady Scandal by Christy Carlyle is book one in the Princes of London series and it was a great kickoff to a new series by Carlyle.
Alexandra Prince is our fmc. She may be more outspoken and impulsive but she has always been overshadowed by her siblings. They are always off on expeditions and she's the one left to keep the family's antique shop going. But she longs for an adventure of her own and when she hears some suspicious customers whispering about stealing the crown jewels, she knows she needs to do something but she will need some help.
Detective Inspector Benedict Drake takes his duties at Scotland Yard seriously. When Alexandra Prince comes into his office to tell him about a crazy scheme she overheard to steal the crown jewels, he isn't sure what to think. Despite turning her away, she keeps popping up and even though he knows it can't be true, something happens that prompts him to believe her account and he has her help him stop the theft of the century.
I loved the build up of the relationship of these two characters. Ben is someone who is focused on his career and determined to advance but when Alexandra comes crashing into his life, he realizes that there is more to life than work. And Allie wants adventure and when Ben pulls her into his investigation, she finds it as exciting as she was hoping it would be but what they didn't expect was that it would put her life in danger.
This was a great read - I love it when there is a mystery tied into my historical romances and the couple is working together to solve it. I still want to know who Ben's father is...but overall this was an enjoyable story with well done characters. If you're looking for a new historical romance to pick up, consider grabbing this one.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Alexandra Prince is our fmc. She may be more outspoken and impulsive but she has always been overshadowed by her siblings. They are always off on expeditions and she's the one left to keep the family's antique shop going. But she longs for an adventure of her own and when she hears some suspicious customers whispering about stealing the crown jewels, she knows she needs to do something but she will need some help.
Detective Inspector Benedict Drake takes his duties at Scotland Yard seriously. When Alexandra Prince comes into his office to tell him about a crazy scheme she overheard to steal the crown jewels, he isn't sure what to think. Despite turning her away, she keeps popping up and even though he knows it can't be true, something happens that prompts him to believe her account and he has her help him stop the theft of the century.
I loved the build up of the relationship of these two characters. Ben is someone who is focused on his career and determined to advance but when Alexandra comes crashing into his life, he realizes that there is more to life than work. And Allie wants adventure and when Ben pulls her into his investigation, she finds it as exciting as she was hoping it would be but what they didn't expect was that it would put her life in danger.
This was a great read - I love it when there is a mystery tied into my historical romances and the couple is working together to solve it. I still want to know who Ben's father is...but overall this was an enjoyable story with well done characters. If you're looking for a new historical romance to pick up, consider grabbing this one.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the copy in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews