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Bad Heir Day Tales #1
The Dreadful Duke
He’d rather carry hod in hell…
Finn Cathcart, a successful sculptor, is having a fine time on the Continent cavorting with alabaster nymphs and marble goddesses (so to speak), when he’s informed that a ducal title awaits him back in England. The same family who disowned Finn’s father now needs an heir to prevent all their wealth from falling into the Crown’s greedy hands.
...She’d rather he did too.
Wilhelmina Cathcart is the widow of the previous ducal heir, and she has no patience with fledgling peers who come grumbling to their honors. Mina has a daughter to raise, meddling family to manage, and no time to explain Mayfair society to a stubborn, backward, contrary duke… even if he is charming and a good listener. Mina and Finn are on the point of admitting a powerful attraction when an enemy close at hand threatens to ruin their hopes for a happily ever after. They will have to work together, and put aside both well earned pride and treasured prejudices, if their shared dream is to bloom into a shared future.
Finn Cathcart, a successful sculptor, is having a fine time on the Continent cavorting with alabaster nymphs and marble goddesses (so to speak), when he’s informed that a ducal title awaits him back in England. The same family who disowned Finn’s father now needs an heir to prevent all their wealth from falling into the Crown’s greedy hands.
...She’d rather he did too.
Wilhelmina Cathcart is the widow of the previous ducal heir, and she has no patience with fledgling peers who come grumbling to their honors. Mina has a daughter to raise, meddling family to manage, and no time to explain Mayfair society to a stubborn, backward, contrary duke… even if he is charming and a good listener. Mina and Finn are on the point of admitting a powerful attraction when an enemy close at hand threatens to ruin their hopes for a happily ever after. They will have to work together, and put aside both well earned pride and treasured prejudices, if their shared dream is to bloom into a shared future.
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 26, 2024
About the author
Grace Burrowes
195 books2,939 followersGrace Burrowes started writing as an antidote to empty nest and soon found it an antidote to life in general. She is the sixth out of seven children, raised in the rural surrounds of central Pennsylvania. Early in life she spent a lot of time reading romance novels and practicing the piano. Her first career was as a technical writer and editor in the Washington, DC, area, a busy job that nonetheless left enough time to read a lot of romance novels.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
It also left enough time to grab a law degree through an evening program, produce Beloved Offspring (only one, but she is a lion), and eventually move to the lovely Maryland countryside.
While reading yet still more romance novels, Grace opened her own law practice, acquired a master's degree in Conflict Transformation (she had a teenage daughter by then) and started thinking about writing.... romance novels. This aim was realized when Beloved Offspring struck out into the Big World a few years ago. ("Mom, why doesn't anybody tell you being a grown-up is hard?")
Grace eventually got up the courage to start pitching her manuscripts to agents and editors. The query letter that resulted in "the call" started out: "I am the buffoon in the bar at the RWA retreat who could not keep her heroines straight, could not look you in the eye, and could not stop blushing--and if that doesn't narrow down the possibilities, your job is even harder than I thought." (The dear lady bought the book anyway.)
To contact Grace, email her at graceburrowes@yahoo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
January 9, 2026
3.5 stars, rounded up because the villain is so slick and slimy
Finn Cathcart is making a name for himself and a fair amount of money as a renowned sculptor when he’s located bouncing around Europe and informed he’s the new Duke of Huntleigh. Since Finn hates the Cathcart family for ostracizing his father for marrying his mother, forcing their little family into poverty and eventually landing an orphaned Finn on the street at eight years old, he’s not happy to be the ducal head of the family.
“I have no use for the aristocracy, the monarchy, the penny press, or the preachers. Parasites the lot of them, exceeded by only Parliament for uselessness. Give me a block of high-quality Carrara and I’m a happy man. A crumbling stone wall has more of my respect than your rubbishing dukes. That wall held up through ages of hard winters and broiling summers, and fights every season for its dignity.
He’d like to ignore the whole business, but among the womenfolk dependent on the duchy is a 6-year-old girl, who is grieving the losses of her father and her great-uncle. If there’s one thing Finn understands it’s a child who isn’t thriving, so he checks on her and finds that her sad, frightened, but quite lovely mother, Wilhelmina, isn’t thriving either.
Finn is lovely, Wilhelmina is lovely, the words they speak to each other are lovely, but I’m a little fuzzy about how and when they went from caring for Emily to courting. It seemed apropos of nothing in particular. Apart from that, the plot was interesting, the villain was horrible, and, for once, gets more than a slap on the wrist.
Nothing exceptional, but I liked it quite a bit
Finn Cathcart is making a name for himself and a fair amount of money as a renowned sculptor when he’s located bouncing around Europe and informed he’s the new Duke of Huntleigh. Since Finn hates the Cathcart family for ostracizing his father for marrying his mother, forcing their little family into poverty and eventually landing an orphaned Finn on the street at eight years old, he’s not happy to be the ducal head of the family.
“I have no use for the aristocracy, the monarchy, the penny press, or the preachers. Parasites the lot of them, exceeded by only Parliament for uselessness. Give me a block of high-quality Carrara and I’m a happy man. A crumbling stone wall has more of my respect than your rubbishing dukes. That wall held up through ages of hard winters and broiling summers, and fights every season for its dignity.
He’d like to ignore the whole business, but among the womenfolk dependent on the duchy is a 6-year-old girl, who is grieving the losses of her father and her great-uncle. If there’s one thing Finn understands it’s a child who isn’t thriving, so he checks on her and finds that her sad, frightened, but quite lovely mother, Wilhelmina, isn’t thriving either.
Finn is lovely, Wilhelmina is lovely, the words they speak to each other are lovely, but I’m a little fuzzy about how and when they went from caring for Emily to courting. It seemed apropos of nothing in particular. Apart from that, the plot was interesting, the villain was horrible, and, for once, gets more than a slap on the wrist.
Nothing exceptional, but I liked it quite a bit
May 6, 2024
The usual. As the first book in a new series, I had hoped Burrowes would infuse it with new energy. Alas, it is her same Merry Olde—veddy veddy civilized MCs, low key instalove that nearly wheezes, and an obsession with undoing buttons. The story didn’t kick in until 80% which saved it from sinking below 3 stars.
April 23, 2024
I loved it! This was as if The Heir and The Captive had a book baby and this was the result. We even get a glimpse of Westmoreland and a note to our hero from His Grace! This has the sweetness of The Heir and the dark undertones of The Captive. Fin and Willie made a great couple and I read the book in one sitting.
May 26, 2024
Lovely Burrowes love story with a reluctant heir who wanted to continue his life of sculpting. However he couldn’t leave a child unsupported, and when he meets her mother, well!
Lots of mystery and conniving surround the tale.
Lots of mystery and conniving surround the tale.
April 22, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
Grace Burrowes is one of those writers that you recognize from her first paragraph in a book. She has a distinct style, unique humor and simply just a way with words. I’ve been a fan for many years.
This is the beginning of a new series called The Bad Heir Day Tales (gotta love that title!). It finds Finn Cathcart, a successful sculptor, being reluctantly led to the title of duke following the death of his cousin. As he tries to curb his animosity toward the family who treated his parents so shabbily, he is shown the “Duke” ropes by Wilhelmina, the widow of his late cousin. As the two are drawn together, they gain support and confidence from each other as they struggle against controlling family members.
Both mains are wonderful here, Finn as a warm-hearted “fixer” and Willie as a woman coming into her own after having been dictated to and striven to keep the peace her entire married life. Burrowes is also a master at introducing and developing her supporting cast, here most notably Emily, Willie’s young daughter and Pritchard, Finn’s man-of-all-trades.
A wonderful start to a new series…one I’m looking forward to keeping up with.
My sincere thanks to the author for providing the free early arc of The Dreadful Duke. The opinions are strictly my own.
Grace Burrowes is one of those writers that you recognize from her first paragraph in a book. She has a distinct style, unique humor and simply just a way with words. I’ve been a fan for many years.
This is the beginning of a new series called The Bad Heir Day Tales (gotta love that title!). It finds Finn Cathcart, a successful sculptor, being reluctantly led to the title of duke following the death of his cousin. As he tries to curb his animosity toward the family who treated his parents so shabbily, he is shown the “Duke” ropes by Wilhelmina, the widow of his late cousin. As the two are drawn together, they gain support and confidence from each other as they struggle against controlling family members.
Both mains are wonderful here, Finn as a warm-hearted “fixer” and Willie as a woman coming into her own after having been dictated to and striven to keep the peace her entire married life. Burrowes is also a master at introducing and developing her supporting cast, here most notably Emily, Willie’s young daughter and Pritchard, Finn’s man-of-all-trades.
A wonderful start to a new series…one I’m looking forward to keeping up with.
My sincere thanks to the author for providing the free early arc of The Dreadful Duke. The opinions are strictly my own.
April 30, 2024
I'm bouncing happily on my toes to see a new series from Grace Burrowes, and I thoroughly enjoyed this first installment. I love reading about artist characters and about (non-obnoxious) kids, and this book has both. As usual, there's a complication and some suspense, but not too much or for too long. That suits me, as I have a limited tolerance for being dangled over cliffs.
May 9, 2026
Let me start by saying, I am a complete sucker for an artist hero, now make that artist hero, a reluctant Duke, who’s big and burly, and an absolute softy when it comes down to it? Yes please!
Finn Carhart has been alienated from his extended family for most of his life, and had to make it on his own after the passing of his parents. He successfully did that, and became a sought after artist… Just when things seemed easy enough, he has found and informed that he has inherited the Duke them from his extended family. He wants absolutely nothing to do with it until. Ilid into and sorting out the Duke, dumb for the sake of the old Dukes, widow and young daughter.
Willamina Carhartt is doing everything she can to protect her daughter Mina in the role. She is now in as widow to the Duke them. Not knowing what to expect with the new Duke.- he’s heard he’s a mean ogre wants nothing to do with them… she is surprised to find that her and her daughter are his first stop in town and soon become his first priority when it comes to the Dukedom!
I had a lot of fun with this reluctant inheritance and found family that the Duke winds up with. Those delightful to see the romance and friendship blossom between Finn and Mina. They create a perfect ally ship for the veteran of the Dukedom and protection of Mina’s daughter.
Grace Burrows has an excellent style of writing that reminds me of Mary Balogh and traditional historical romance well still being fun and fresh.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by James Langton and really appreciated. The choice of a male narrator for this story that is heavily male centric in point of view. I felt like he really brought Finn‘s character to life will also did an excellent job modulating his voice to represent Mina’s point of view as well. This was an easy and enjoyable listen.
Finn Carhart has been alienated from his extended family for most of his life, and had to make it on his own after the passing of his parents. He successfully did that, and became a sought after artist… Just when things seemed easy enough, he has found and informed that he has inherited the Duke them from his extended family. He wants absolutely nothing to do with it until. Ilid into and sorting out the Duke, dumb for the sake of the old Dukes, widow and young daughter.
Willamina Carhartt is doing everything she can to protect her daughter Mina in the role. She is now in as widow to the Duke them. Not knowing what to expect with the new Duke.- he’s heard he’s a mean ogre wants nothing to do with them… she is surprised to find that her and her daughter are his first stop in town and soon become his first priority when it comes to the Dukedom!
I had a lot of fun with this reluctant inheritance and found family that the Duke winds up with. Those delightful to see the romance and friendship blossom between Finn and Mina. They create a perfect ally ship for the veteran of the Dukedom and protection of Mina’s daughter.
Grace Burrows has an excellent style of writing that reminds me of Mary Balogh and traditional historical romance well still being fun and fresh.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by James Langton and really appreciated. The choice of a male narrator for this story that is heavily male centric in point of view. I felt like he really brought Finn‘s character to life will also did an excellent job modulating his voice to represent Mina’s point of view as well. This was an easy and enjoyable listen.
April 16, 2024
First - I LOVE everything Grace Burrowes writes so I’m not very objective and thank you for the E-ARC of this book.
I really enjoyed this first in the series Bad Heir Tales. I’m already searching for more information on the second book.
This novel reminds me of the Windham Series. It’s a romance novel first that includes intrigue. Her past 2 series - phenomenal- were mysteries that built on 1 character. I found Burrowe’s novels with the Windham series (and there is a guest appearance!)
Her writing is methodical as she slowly unwraps the story for you.
This is a great tale of a widow who decided to take back control of her life and a new Duke who wanted nothing to do with the title.
I really enjoyed this first in the series Bad Heir Tales. I’m already searching for more information on the second book.
This novel reminds me of the Windham Series. It’s a romance novel first that includes intrigue. Her past 2 series - phenomenal- were mysteries that built on 1 character. I found Burrowe’s novels with the Windham series (and there is a guest appearance!)
Her writing is methodical as she slowly unwraps the story for you.
This is a great tale of a widow who decided to take back control of her life and a new Duke who wanted nothing to do with the title.
May 25, 2024
I was bored.
May 7, 2026
The Dreadful Duke ended up being a solid 3.5–4 star read for me. It had so many tropes I love with the enemies to lovers, opposites attract, and slow burn romance. Overall I really enjoyed the story, even if it wasn’t quite a new favorite for me.
Finn and Mina were both easy characters to root for in different ways. Finn’s discomfort with aristocratic expectations made him entertaining, while Mina’s practicality and devotion to her family grounded the story emotionally. Their connection was built more through trust and understanding than instant attraction. Which I appreciate!
I also really liked the family saga aspect of the book. The side characters and family dynamics made the world feel fuller and added emotional weight beyond the romance itself. Grace Burrowes always does a good job making historical romances feel lived in and layered.
My biggest issue was probably the pacing. The middle section dragged at times (and while I enjoy a slow burn) I wanted a little more tension and emotional payoff in certain scenes. Still, the characters were likable, and the actual writing was great as always!
Finn and Mina were both easy characters to root for in different ways. Finn’s discomfort with aristocratic expectations made him entertaining, while Mina’s practicality and devotion to her family grounded the story emotionally. Their connection was built more through trust and understanding than instant attraction. Which I appreciate!
I also really liked the family saga aspect of the book. The side characters and family dynamics made the world feel fuller and added emotional weight beyond the romance itself. Grace Burrowes always does a good job making historical romances feel lived in and layered.
My biggest issue was probably the pacing. The middle section dragged at times (and while I enjoy a slow burn) I wanted a little more tension and emotional payoff in certain scenes. Still, the characters were likable, and the actual writing was great as always!
October 2, 2024
2.5 stars
I like this author's shorter mysteries (e.g. Lord Julian Mysteries series) much more than her longer romances. This novel just demonstrated my point. It was so slow, I wanted to scream. Only the interesting hero and heroine saved the book from being a total flop, but even then, why did Burrowes give the POV space/time to so many other characters? She should've stayed in the protagonists' head all the time. As it was, with so many different points of view, the story seemed diluted, its focus off-kilter.
I like this author's shorter mysteries (e.g. Lord Julian Mysteries series) much more than her longer romances. This novel just demonstrated my point. It was so slow, I wanted to scream. Only the interesting hero and heroine saved the book from being a total flop, but even then, why did Burrowes give the POV space/time to so many other characters? She should've stayed in the protagonists' head all the time. As it was, with so many different points of view, the story seemed diluted, its focus off-kilter.
April 26, 2026
I went into this one with high hopes but it unfortunately it fell a little flat for me. It was a decent story over all but I just never felt fully invested in it. The love story was very prim and proper and I didn’t feel connected to the characters or their story. I think it would be a great fit for people that are looking for more of a period piece, with scandal’s and intrigue vs a romance book.
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for the eARC and alc of this book.
Thank you to Hambright PR and the author for the eARC and alc of this book.
April 19, 2026
I didn’t have any strong feelings for this one. It was cute, but I also found myself bored multiple times throughout it. I thought the relationship between the MMC and the FMC’s daughter was sweet and I liked the origin story of the MMC. The MMC’s nickname for the FMC was an odd choice to me.😅 I didn’t love or hate this read.
April 21, 2026
Arc/alc review.
Such a good story! I'm totally in my royal era! The narrators of this book we excellent choices for the characters too! I loved the semi modern context as well!
Thank you hambright pr
Such a good story! I'm totally in my royal era! The narrators of this book we excellent choices for the characters too! I loved the semi modern context as well!
Thank you hambright pr
November 25, 2024
3.5/5 star
October 2, 2025
Vintage Grace Burrowes. Really good characterizations -the good guys are really good and the MIL is detestable. As always, a happy ending.
April 24, 2026
I enjoyed this story. It like the setting was Shakespeare times. I received a listener copy of this book. Some parts seemed liked they dragged. I did enjoy the narrator’s. If you want something different. I would recommend.
April 28, 2024
The Dreadful Duke by Grace Burrowes is not really about a dreadful man or even a dreadful duke. The book starts out with us meeting Finn Cathcart, a sculpture and artist who due to circumstances beyond his control becomes the next duke. And he thinks it is dreadful. His relatives who want him to become a duke for only their selfish reasons think he is dreadful too. But he is not.
Finn Cathcart is suddenly a duke, by a family that didn’t want him when he was young and left him to make do on his own. So now they need him (all the other male heirs are dead) and he really does not want to play. However, he meets the widow and her child and things turn around for Finn because of her guidance. Mina takes time to help the duke. As things move forward, they begin to regard each other in a totally new way. It is then that trouble appears.
The Dreadful Duke by Grace Burrowes is an historical novel with a bit of twist and loads of fun characters. I really enjoyed reading the novel. The book is designed to be the first in a new series called, The Bad Heir Day Tales. As always I will look forward to the next book in the series. The Dreadful Duke by Grace Burrowes was a fun read.
Finn Cathcart is suddenly a duke, by a family that didn’t want him when he was young and left him to make do on his own. So now they need him (all the other male heirs are dead) and he really does not want to play. However, he meets the widow and her child and things turn around for Finn because of her guidance. Mina takes time to help the duke. As things move forward, they begin to regard each other in a totally new way. It is then that trouble appears.
The Dreadful Duke by Grace Burrowes is an historical novel with a bit of twist and loads of fun characters. I really enjoyed reading the novel. The book is designed to be the first in a new series called, The Bad Heir Day Tales. As always I will look forward to the next book in the series. The Dreadful Duke by Grace Burrowes was a fun read.
October 29, 2025
Greedy MIL bullies widowed h who is trying to protect her sweet little girl. H is a reluctant duke who dislikes society but is madly in love with the h. Together they must beat evil MIL. Loved it.
May 4, 2026
Finn Cathcart has been brought back to England as the heir to a ducal title and a family who had disowned Finn’s father for marrying his mother. After the death of his parent’s when he was eight Finn did whatever he could to survive leading him to become a prominent and sought after sculptor in Italy. Presently, the Cathcart line needs Finn to take up his ducal duties to not only save their title and lands from resorted to the crown but to save them from penury. Finn would rather they go to the devil until his cousin’s six year old niece is brought to his attention. A little girl who is not thriving now that she has lost her father and grandfather. With a soft spot for the little girl, Finn decides he will do whatever he can to help Emily thrive.
Wilhelmina Cathcart, widow of the previous heir to the dukedom, wants nothing more than to raise her daughter and help her with the losses they both suffered. With her mother-in-law hounding Mina to take custody of Emily, and spies in her household staff reporting back to whomever appears to be bribing them, Mina is just trying to hold things together. What she doesn’t expect is the current ducal heir to come to her and whose honesty forms a bond between them. A bond which starts out as Mina assisting with aspects of the estates, being a buffer against the current duchess and Finn but soon becomes something more.
As I mentioned, I love a Burrowes hero and heroine. There is something about their individual wounds and how each character sees the other. How the characters are able to work on themselves through the companionship and support of the other. There is one point in the story where Finn mentions to Pritchard that Mina sees Finn; truly sees him. And how she acted in accordance to make things easier for him especially within his household. Little things like noticing his hands were swollen which sometimes affected the way that he could take care of his basic needs such as eating. How she spoke with his cook to make sure there were items that were easy to cut when holding cutlery was difficult for him.
How Finn could see Mina’s vulnerability when it came to Emily and reassured her that she was the mother she was hoping to be even when society had reminded Mina time and time again she had failed by not providing a male heir before the death of her husband.
I loved the companionship Finn and Mina formed. How it provided space for them to form an attachment that meant more than their previous relationships. How it provided Mina with the ability to speak openly about the trials of her marriage and the feelings which she had surrounding intimacy. How it changed Finn’s views on what love truly was and how it can be formed in a different kind of passion.
I also love Burrowes’s supporting characters. Particularly St. Didier and Pritchard. I was fascinated by how St. Didier had created his profession of finding lost heirs. I am also very much looking forward to Pritchard’s secret past which is revealed in the next book!
The narration of The Dreadful Duke by James Langton was superb in my opinion! His voice for Finn was all gravely and made me all melty. He totally captivated me as a listener and drew me deeper and deeper into the story. So much so I listened to the entire audiobook within 24 hours.
Thank you to Hambright PR for a gifted copy of the ALC and eARC.
Wilhelmina Cathcart, widow of the previous heir to the dukedom, wants nothing more than to raise her daughter and help her with the losses they both suffered. With her mother-in-law hounding Mina to take custody of Emily, and spies in her household staff reporting back to whomever appears to be bribing them, Mina is just trying to hold things together. What she doesn’t expect is the current ducal heir to come to her and whose honesty forms a bond between them. A bond which starts out as Mina assisting with aspects of the estates, being a buffer against the current duchess and Finn but soon becomes something more.
As I mentioned, I love a Burrowes hero and heroine. There is something about their individual wounds and how each character sees the other. How the characters are able to work on themselves through the companionship and support of the other. There is one point in the story where Finn mentions to Pritchard that Mina sees Finn; truly sees him. And how she acted in accordance to make things easier for him especially within his household. Little things like noticing his hands were swollen which sometimes affected the way that he could take care of his basic needs such as eating. How she spoke with his cook to make sure there were items that were easy to cut when holding cutlery was difficult for him.
How Finn could see Mina’s vulnerability when it came to Emily and reassured her that she was the mother she was hoping to be even when society had reminded Mina time and time again she had failed by not providing a male heir before the death of her husband.
I loved the companionship Finn and Mina formed. How it provided space for them to form an attachment that meant more than their previous relationships. How it provided Mina with the ability to speak openly about the trials of her marriage and the feelings which she had surrounding intimacy. How it changed Finn’s views on what love truly was and how it can be formed in a different kind of passion.
I also love Burrowes’s supporting characters. Particularly St. Didier and Pritchard. I was fascinated by how St. Didier had created his profession of finding lost heirs. I am also very much looking forward to Pritchard’s secret past which is revealed in the next book!
The narration of The Dreadful Duke by James Langton was superb in my opinion! His voice for Finn was all gravely and made me all melty. He totally captivated me as a listener and drew me deeper and deeper into the story. So much so I listened to the entire audiobook within 24 hours.
Thank you to Hambright PR for a gifted copy of the ALC and eARC.
May 5, 2024
Barbara’s rating: 4.3 out of 5 Stars
Series: Bad Heir Day Tales #1
Publication Date: 4/26/24
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages: 308
This was a delightful first book in a new series by this author. Finn Cathcart is an amazingly talented sculptor, who has made a name (and fortune) for himself on the continent and in England. He’s also handsome, self-confident, and self-reliant – and has no use whatsoever for anyone in the aristocracy – except to take their money, of course. He loathes anything to do with the Huntley dukedom and would love to see it revert to the crown and cease to exist. No skin off his teeth. Except, he isn’t a bad heir and can change his mind when a small, helpless, young child (Emily) is adversely affected. It seems that the ‘finder’ they have sent to find Finn finally learns that weakness and uses it to get him to accept the honors.
Finn is Finn and doesn’t intend to be anyone or anything else. The current duchess, his Aunt Edwardia, can fall into a hole and never find her way out as far as he is concerned. She is to blame for the death of his baby sister, his mother, and him finding himself on the streets at the age of 8, totally alone to fend for himself. He cannot allow the dukedom to cause hurt to another small child.
Breaking all rules of protocol and manners, Finn arrives at the home of Wilhelmina (Willie/Mina) to introduce himself to the widow of his cousin. His cousin was the heir until he did stupid things and got himself killed. Mina was to be the next duchess, but now – what will happen to her? What will happen to Emily?
Finn and Mina are attracted to each other from the first. I loved how very honest and straightforward they were with each other. No prevarications – no “He/She won’t love me anymore if they learn xxxxx”. Nope, it was so wonderfully refreshing to see such honesty and straightforward love for each other. Even when the always-required third-act “event” happened, there was no doubt. No thinking ill of the other. Each had absolute confidence in the other. Gosh, I loved that part!
As with most of this author’s books, we get cameo appearances of characters from other series. In this case, it was Westhaven, Anselm, and the wine merchant – Fournier. We even got an honorable mention for The Duke of Moreland. Yep – love all of those visits. I thoroughly enjoyed Emily who was NOT the normally required brattish child. She was lovely and sweet-natured and very insecure because she had lost her father and her doting uncle all within a very short period. Finn picked up on that and carved her some lovely playmates – Draco the dragon and the Ursulas (Major and Minor) who are bears and are featured throughout the book.
I can recommend this book if you love a wonderful, love story with strong characters who know their minds. I would love to have a peek at Finn and Mina ten or fifteen years down the road because I absolutely know he will be a formidable duke and their love story will be held up to all on the marriage mart as an example of how things should be. Happy Reading!
Series: Bad Heir Day Tales #1
Publication Date: 4/26/24
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages: 308
This was a delightful first book in a new series by this author. Finn Cathcart is an amazingly talented sculptor, who has made a name (and fortune) for himself on the continent and in England. He’s also handsome, self-confident, and self-reliant – and has no use whatsoever for anyone in the aristocracy – except to take their money, of course. He loathes anything to do with the Huntley dukedom and would love to see it revert to the crown and cease to exist. No skin off his teeth. Except, he isn’t a bad heir and can change his mind when a small, helpless, young child (Emily) is adversely affected. It seems that the ‘finder’ they have sent to find Finn finally learns that weakness and uses it to get him to accept the honors.
Finn is Finn and doesn’t intend to be anyone or anything else. The current duchess, his Aunt Edwardia, can fall into a hole and never find her way out as far as he is concerned. She is to blame for the death of his baby sister, his mother, and him finding himself on the streets at the age of 8, totally alone to fend for himself. He cannot allow the dukedom to cause hurt to another small child.
Breaking all rules of protocol and manners, Finn arrives at the home of Wilhelmina (Willie/Mina) to introduce himself to the widow of his cousin. His cousin was the heir until he did stupid things and got himself killed. Mina was to be the next duchess, but now – what will happen to her? What will happen to Emily?
Finn and Mina are attracted to each other from the first. I loved how very honest and straightforward they were with each other. No prevarications – no “He/She won’t love me anymore if they learn xxxxx”. Nope, it was so wonderfully refreshing to see such honesty and straightforward love for each other. Even when the always-required third-act “event” happened, there was no doubt. No thinking ill of the other. Each had absolute confidence in the other. Gosh, I loved that part!
As with most of this author’s books, we get cameo appearances of characters from other series. In this case, it was Westhaven, Anselm, and the wine merchant – Fournier. We even got an honorable mention for The Duke of Moreland. Yep – love all of those visits. I thoroughly enjoyed Emily who was NOT the normally required brattish child. She was lovely and sweet-natured and very insecure because she had lost her father and her doting uncle all within a very short period. Finn picked up on that and carved her some lovely playmates – Draco the dragon and the Ursulas (Major and Minor) who are bears and are featured throughout the book.
I can recommend this book if you love a wonderful, love story with strong characters who know their minds. I would love to have a peek at Finn and Mina ten or fifteen years down the road because I absolutely know he will be a formidable duke and their love story will be held up to all on the marriage mart as an example of how things should be. Happy Reading!
April 30, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5/5🌟
This is such a fun regency romance! It’s a perfect palate cleanser if you need one. I laughed out loud so many times with the witty banter between these two MCs! It’s so refreshing to read a romance where the two MCs are both mature. These two are older (I’m thinking late twenties, early thirties) they seem older simply due to the sophisticated way that regency folk speak. But the refreshing part is watching them fall in love. They are just refreshingly real and open with each other and I really enjoyed that! The FMC discovering what it’s like to be truly loved was so endearing. The romance is what I would describe as fade to black. There’s kissing and you know what is going to happen but the author saves you from the details. I would rate this 1/5 🌶️ simply because there is romance, it just fades to black nicely. Thank you to the author and to Hambright PR for the eARC. This voluntary review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. I think you will enjoy this book if you love:
*Regency Romance *Enemies to Lovers vibes *Family Saga *Slow Burn *Fish Out of Water *Opposites Attract
*Fade to Black Romance
“You are goading me. Implying that working for a living is a sin Society might graciously forgive if I’m sufficiently charming and humble. See how calmly I ignore your baiting.”
“Your mama-in-law, after raising exactly one drunken wastrel, thinks it allowable to criticize your parenting of Emily, who is a paragon…”
“If there’s one aspect of marriage to which a man is honor-bound to apply some imagination and consideration, it’s intimate congress with his wife. A lady risks her life in childbed. She should at least have some pleasure in pursuit of conception. Now I should be blushing.”
For some ladies, the body was a weapon wielded to stupefy the unwary. For others, the body was a testament to domestic wars fought and lives brought forth and nurtured. In the usual case, the male form wasn’t half so full of life.
Finn’s hand caressing her hair had been a revelation of tenderness. They had not kissed, had not even fully embraced, and yet, everything Mina thought she knew about desire and closeness had been turned on its head.
“Hope looks disappointment in the eye and pretends not to notice.”
“You don’t mind?”
“Dio aiutami. How could I mind a dream come true?”
“I have never been anybody’s dream come true before.”
“A lack of imagination in others was no reflection on you, Willie. You have filled my dreams and my heart in equally wondrous measures.”
5/5🌟
This is such a fun regency romance! It’s a perfect palate cleanser if you need one. I laughed out loud so many times with the witty banter between these two MCs! It’s so refreshing to read a romance where the two MCs are both mature. These two are older (I’m thinking late twenties, early thirties) they seem older simply due to the sophisticated way that regency folk speak. But the refreshing part is watching them fall in love. They are just refreshingly real and open with each other and I really enjoyed that! The FMC discovering what it’s like to be truly loved was so endearing. The romance is what I would describe as fade to black. There’s kissing and you know what is going to happen but the author saves you from the details. I would rate this 1/5 🌶️ simply because there is romance, it just fades to black nicely. Thank you to the author and to Hambright PR for the eARC. This voluntary review is my honest thoughts and opinions about the book. I think you will enjoy this book if you love:
*Regency Romance *Enemies to Lovers vibes *Family Saga *Slow Burn *Fish Out of Water *Opposites Attract
*Fade to Black Romance
“You are goading me. Implying that working for a living is a sin Society might graciously forgive if I’m sufficiently charming and humble. See how calmly I ignore your baiting.”
“Your mama-in-law, after raising exactly one drunken wastrel, thinks it allowable to criticize your parenting of Emily, who is a paragon…”
“If there’s one aspect of marriage to which a man is honor-bound to apply some imagination and consideration, it’s intimate congress with his wife. A lady risks her life in childbed. She should at least have some pleasure in pursuit of conception. Now I should be blushing.”
For some ladies, the body was a weapon wielded to stupefy the unwary. For others, the body was a testament to domestic wars fought and lives brought forth and nurtured. In the usual case, the male form wasn’t half so full of life.
Finn’s hand caressing her hair had been a revelation of tenderness. They had not kissed, had not even fully embraced, and yet, everything Mina thought she knew about desire and closeness had been turned on its head.
“Hope looks disappointment in the eye and pretends not to notice.”
“You don’t mind?”
“Dio aiutami. How could I mind a dream come true?”
“I have never been anybody’s dream come true before.”
“A lack of imagination in others was no reflection on you, Willie. You have filled my dreams and my heart in equally wondrous measures.”
April 29, 2024
Wonderful start to this new series 'The Bad Heir Day', great pun too.
A talented and renowned sculptor, Finn Cathcart is called back to England by the news he's become the latest Duke of Huntleigh. A role he really isn't interested in as the family abandoned his father, the third son, and provided no help when his mother was ill. But he's tempted with the knowledge of Emily, daughter to the last heir, his cousin William.
Breaking with manners Finn decides to meet Emily and her widowed mother Wilhelmina - Mina or Willie, and takes for Emily hand carved bears - the Ursulas and Draco a dragon. Mina encouraged Finn to meet his Aunts Edwardia the widow of the last duke, and Vanessa Mina's mother in law. But something is very wrong in the family, and both believe it's coming from Edwardia the duchess.
My only teeny-tiny niggle is of Finns mother came from a wealthy Catholic family, why were his parents so destitute? My only conclusion, although it's not said, is that her family disowned her when she converted before her marriage. (At This time being Catholic was deemed undesirable especially if you were nobility, Finns father was thrown out of the family for his marriage. Even now royalty can't marry a Catholic unless the concert first).
This is Grace Burrowes back at her very best, the main characters are wonderfully drawn and very believable, I love how Finn retains his character when having life turned upside down and Mina grows in confidence throughout the book. The secondary characters Pritchard, Finns major-domo and St Didier are more than they seem, and I hope to see more of them.
I love how characters from other series appear in this book, Moreland, Westhaven and Anselm, and the wine merchants Fournier. Always good to meet characters we know. But what made this special was Charles the spaniel being so spanielish (I recognise so much from my spaniels), and Draco and the Ursulas, who charm through the book.
This could easily become a favourite book, it grabbed me from the first page and held right to the last.
A talented and renowned sculptor, Finn Cathcart is called back to England by the news he's become the latest Duke of Huntleigh. A role he really isn't interested in as the family abandoned his father, the third son, and provided no help when his mother was ill. But he's tempted with the knowledge of Emily, daughter to the last heir, his cousin William.
Breaking with manners Finn decides to meet Emily and her widowed mother Wilhelmina - Mina or Willie, and takes for Emily hand carved bears - the Ursulas and Draco a dragon. Mina encouraged Finn to meet his Aunts Edwardia the widow of the last duke, and Vanessa Mina's mother in law. But something is very wrong in the family, and both believe it's coming from Edwardia the duchess.
My only teeny-tiny niggle is of Finns mother came from a wealthy Catholic family, why were his parents so destitute? My only conclusion, although it's not said, is that her family disowned her when she converted before her marriage. (At This time being Catholic was deemed undesirable especially if you were nobility, Finns father was thrown out of the family for his marriage. Even now royalty can't marry a Catholic unless the concert first).
This is Grace Burrowes back at her very best, the main characters are wonderfully drawn and very believable, I love how Finn retains his character when having life turned upside down and Mina grows in confidence throughout the book. The secondary characters Pritchard, Finns major-domo and St Didier are more than they seem, and I hope to see more of them.
I love how characters from other series appear in this book, Moreland, Westhaven and Anselm, and the wine merchants Fournier. Always good to meet characters we know. But what made this special was Charles the spaniel being so spanielish (I recognise so much from my spaniels), and Draco and the Ursulas, who charm through the book.
This could easily become a favourite book, it grabbed me from the first page and held right to the last.
May 10, 2026
Grace Burrows writes some lovely regency romances, and The Dreadful Duke ended up being a good one for me. Finn Cathcart has spent years building a successful life for himself as a sculptor after basically being abandoned by the aristocratic side of his family, so inheriting a dukedom is the last thing he wants. The only reason he even starts involving himself in any of it is because of Wilhelmina and her daughter Emily, and honestly, that man never stood a chance once they entered the picture.
Finn was EXACTLY my kind of hero. He's big, grumpy, stubborn, and openly irritated by aristocratic nonsense, but secretly he's one of the sweetest men alive when it comes to the people he cares about. I loved how naturally protective he became of Emily without ever treating her like a burden or an obligation. And then there’s Wilhelmina, who has spent years making herself smaller and quieter just to survive within her marriage and family expectations. Finn slowly pulled her out of that mindset simply by listening to her, respecting her opinions, and genuinely caring about her happiness. It was practically perfect. The romance itself felt very intimate. It wasn’t all instant passion or nonstop drama. A lot of their connection develops through conversation, trust, companionship, and finally feeling understood by another person. I really loved that about it.
The pacing is definitely on the slower side, especially in the middle, so I think this works best if you enjoy slower, relationship-focused historical romances. But honestly, I ended this completely attached to Finn and Wilhelmina. Something about a grumpy sculptor duke learning how to let himself be loved was so sweet. I look forward to the next book in this series!
Finn was EXACTLY my kind of hero. He's big, grumpy, stubborn, and openly irritated by aristocratic nonsense, but secretly he's one of the sweetest men alive when it comes to the people he cares about. I loved how naturally protective he became of Emily without ever treating her like a burden or an obligation. And then there’s Wilhelmina, who has spent years making herself smaller and quieter just to survive within her marriage and family expectations. Finn slowly pulled her out of that mindset simply by listening to her, respecting her opinions, and genuinely caring about her happiness. It was practically perfect. The romance itself felt very intimate. It wasn’t all instant passion or nonstop drama. A lot of their connection develops through conversation, trust, companionship, and finally feeling understood by another person. I really loved that about it.
The pacing is definitely on the slower side, especially in the middle, so I think this works best if you enjoy slower, relationship-focused historical romances. But honestly, I ended this completely attached to Finn and Wilhelmina. Something about a grumpy sculptor duke learning how to let himself be loved was so sweet. I look forward to the next book in this series!
May 3, 2026
First, I want to thank Hambright PR and Grace Burrowes for the gifted eARC of The Dreadful Duke to read and provide my honest review.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
I haven’t read a book by Grace Burrowes before so I honestly didn’t know what to expect when it came time to start reading this story. I love anything royal or regency so I was pretty excited to have a chance to read this book.
This story follows Finn Cathcart who is living life as a sculptor until one day he learns that a ducal title awaits him. However it isn’t as fun as it sounds as it seems that the family who is in need of an heir is the one waiting for Finn in England. Finn finds himself in the car of Wilhelmina, a widow of the previous ducal heir.
I loved Wilhelmina and how she was always doing her best to take care of her own life and her own daughter. Raising her daughter was her main priority but having to explain everything to Finn was the thorn in her side. However, I soon started to love Finn and Wilhelmina especially when they decided to lean on one another. They felt so relatable especially when they were up against controlling family members. I found myself in Finn and Wilhelmina during that part because knowing how to keep yourself strong even against strong family members truly spoke to me.
This was a pretty good introduction to Grace’s work and I cannot wait to see what other books are out there to read.
My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
My Thoughts:
I haven’t read a book by Grace Burrowes before so I honestly didn’t know what to expect when it came time to start reading this story. I love anything royal or regency so I was pretty excited to have a chance to read this book.
This story follows Finn Cathcart who is living life as a sculptor until one day he learns that a ducal title awaits him. However it isn’t as fun as it sounds as it seems that the family who is in need of an heir is the one waiting for Finn in England. Finn finds himself in the car of Wilhelmina, a widow of the previous ducal heir.
I loved Wilhelmina and how she was always doing her best to take care of her own life and her own daughter. Raising her daughter was her main priority but having to explain everything to Finn was the thorn in her side. However, I soon started to love Finn and Wilhelmina especially when they decided to lean on one another. They felt so relatable especially when they were up against controlling family members. I found myself in Finn and Wilhelmina during that part because knowing how to keep yourself strong even against strong family members truly spoke to me.
This was a pretty good introduction to Grace’s work and I cannot wait to see what other books are out there to read.
May 25, 2024
I’m generally a huge fan of this author, but this book just never left the starting gate for me.
Furious at finding himself unexpectedly a duke, renown sculptor Finn Cathcart reluctantly agrees to take up his role as head of the Cathcart family in order to protect little Emily, the daughter of his deceased cousin. When he meets Wilhelmina Cathcart, Emily’s mother, Finn is surprised at his reaction: she’s smart, resourceful, and devoted to her daughter. As their friendship ripens into a blazing mutual attraction, both Finn and ‘Willie’ must learn to set aside old assumptions and feelings. However, when Willie and Emily are forced to flee London to escape a scheming relation, Finn is committed to ensuring their safety, regardless of the cost.
There’s nothing really wrong with either Finn or Willie. He makes for a fine Hero, doing/saying all the right things. He loves Emily and respects Willie. Willie is a great heroine: a protective and loving mother who’s finally being allowed to grasp the reins to her own life.
But…somehow the plot seemed flat. The villain(ess) never seemed like that much of a threat. Even Finn and Willie’s sexy times seemed rather lukewarm.
But…it’s definitely better than ‘just OK,’ so three stars.
Furious at finding himself unexpectedly a duke, renown sculptor Finn Cathcart reluctantly agrees to take up his role as head of the Cathcart family in order to protect little Emily, the daughter of his deceased cousin. When he meets Wilhelmina Cathcart, Emily’s mother, Finn is surprised at his reaction: she’s smart, resourceful, and devoted to her daughter. As their friendship ripens into a blazing mutual attraction, both Finn and ‘Willie’ must learn to set aside old assumptions and feelings. However, when Willie and Emily are forced to flee London to escape a scheming relation, Finn is committed to ensuring their safety, regardless of the cost.
There’s nothing really wrong with either Finn or Willie. He makes for a fine Hero, doing/saying all the right things. He loves Emily and respects Willie. Willie is a great heroine: a protective and loving mother who’s finally being allowed to grasp the reins to her own life.
But…somehow the plot seemed flat. The villain(ess) never seemed like that much of a threat. Even Finn and Willie’s sexy times seemed rather lukewarm.
But…it’s definitely better than ‘just OK,’ so three stars.
September 9, 2024
TLDR: this book was a pleasant surprise, and if you’d like a cosy regency romance, give it a read!
This book was a pleasant surprise. I was drawn to the covers (of this and its sequel) on the “newly added” section of Libby, which I found pleasantly macabre. The dark colors and flowers made me wonder if they were vampire novels. The leading ladies (of this and its sequel) happened to share the names of characters I’d just been discussing. Between the lovely covers and the name coincidence, I decided my reading of these was meant to be and put both books on hold.
This is in fact not a vampire book, but a regency romance, and very well done! The characters are alive with interesting quirks. The story is very character-driven, but stakes are thrown in towards the end. Something about that felt clunky to me, but I like the novel overall, all the same.
The verbiage in this book was delightful, but made me glad I had a digital copy, so I could look up definitions. In contrast, I think a physical (owned) copy would have been lovely, as this book almost calls to be annotated.
A pleasant experience! I’m excited for the second book, which is still on hold, and for the third, which has yet to be released.
This book was a pleasant surprise. I was drawn to the covers (of this and its sequel) on the “newly added” section of Libby, which I found pleasantly macabre. The dark colors and flowers made me wonder if they were vampire novels. The leading ladies (of this and its sequel) happened to share the names of characters I’d just been discussing. Between the lovely covers and the name coincidence, I decided my reading of these was meant to be and put both books on hold.
This is in fact not a vampire book, but a regency romance, and very well done! The characters are alive with interesting quirks. The story is very character-driven, but stakes are thrown in towards the end. Something about that felt clunky to me, but I like the novel overall, all the same.
The verbiage in this book was delightful, but made me glad I had a digital copy, so I could look up definitions. In contrast, I think a physical (owned) copy would have been lovely, as this book almost calls to be annotated.
A pleasant experience! I’m excited for the second book, which is still on hold, and for the third, which has yet to be released.
April 19, 2024
Orphaned as a small boy, after losing his young sister, Finn Cathcart pulled himself up with grueling work, raw talent and pure grit to become a wealthy, successful and sought after sculptor and artist. His peaceful world is turned upside down when he is informed that he has inherited a dukedom from distant relatives who virtually ignored his suffering as a child. He resists as long as he can, but when he is informed that an innocent young cousin and her mother will suffer if he doesn’t take up the reins of the title, he caves. Wilhelmina Cathcart will do anything to protect her young daughter Emily, even if it means shepherding the new Duke through society. As Finn and Willie spend more and more time together, their attraction grows, but other players are determined to dash their dreams for a future together. Ms. Burrowes has a writing style that is elegant, yet accessible, with beautifully constructed sentences and period appropriate morals and language. The Dreadful Duke is a wonderful start to a new series and I highly recommend it! This book was provided by the author without any requirement for a review, positive or otherwise. All opinions are 100% my own.
May 27, 2024
It has been awhile since I've read a historical that I felt was fresh and interesting. I used to LOVE them. This was quite short but surprisingly satisfying. I've liked and disliked this author before so I had no expectations going in. Finn Cathcart is a reluctant Duke. He despises that side of his family when they turned his back on him as a boy. He suffered from that decision but managed to carve out a successful career and a little happiness when he's tracked down about his inheritance. It seems the other male heirs have died off without proper offspring and the title is about to be escheated to the crown. Finn just wants to be left alone to sculpt and create art. To save the dependents of the estate he agrees to assume the title. Wilhelmina and her daughter are two of those dependents when it's her husband (and heir apparent) who dies. A huge financial chunk of the estate went to Wilhelmina's daughter Emily) which makes her a hot commodity. This story was intriguing and packed enough emotion to make a satisfying read. Especially at only 300 pages or so. Burrowes for the win!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 30, 2026
I received a complimentary audiobook; all opinions are my own.
The story follows Finn Cathcart, who is a successful sculptor. He finds out that he has a ducal title waiting for him in England. His family now needs him to prevent all their wealth from falling to the Crown. This is the same family that disowned his father for marrying his mother. This left his family in poverty and then at eight years old, left Finn an orphan on the streets when his parents passed.
Then we have Wilhelmina Cathcart is the widow of the previous ducal heir. She is left widowed with a young daughter to raise. She has no time to explain the workings of Mayfair society to the stubborn new duke.
This was a sweet romance in which we see Finn, the stubborn Duke, evolve emotionally connecting with both Wilhemina and Emily. We see the connection with Emily first, since he understands the loss of a parent at such a young age. We see great banter, healing themes, and family drama.
If you like Regency romances, enemies to lovers, family saga and drama (there is a lot of that in here), and slow burn, then this is the book for you.
The story follows Finn Cathcart, who is a successful sculptor. He finds out that he has a ducal title waiting for him in England. His family now needs him to prevent all their wealth from falling to the Crown. This is the same family that disowned his father for marrying his mother. This left his family in poverty and then at eight years old, left Finn an orphan on the streets when his parents passed.
Then we have Wilhelmina Cathcart is the widow of the previous ducal heir. She is left widowed with a young daughter to raise. She has no time to explain the workings of Mayfair society to the stubborn new duke.
This was a sweet romance in which we see Finn, the stubborn Duke, evolve emotionally connecting with both Wilhemina and Emily. We see the connection with Emily first, since he understands the loss of a parent at such a young age. We see great banter, healing themes, and family drama.
If you like Regency romances, enemies to lovers, family saga and drama (there is a lot of that in here), and slow burn, then this is the book for you.
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