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Tricks Of The Ton #1
Must Love Dukes
The Mad Duke leaned in closer, his lips gently brushing her ear, and "I dare you."
She Can't Resist the DareLillian Phillips could not imagine how her quiet, simple life had come to this. Blackmailed by the Mad Duke of Thornwood into accepting one wild dare after another...all because of a pocket watch. Desperate to recover her beloved father's pawned timepiece, Lily did something reckless and dangerous and delicious—something that led to a night she'd never forget.
He has a Reputation for ScandalWhen Devon Grey, Duke of Thornwood, runs into a mesmerizing, intoxicating, thieving woman who literally stole from his bedchamber—with his new pocket watch—Devon plots his revenge. If the daring wench likes to play games, he's happy to oblige. After all, what's the ruse of being the Mad Duke if you can't have some fun? But the last laugh might just be on him...
Praise for Elizabeth "Rich with wit and charm."—Publishers Weekly on How to Lose a Lord in 10 Days or Less"Michels' fresh and funny debut will delight readers with its endearing characters and infectious mix of sweet yet sexy romance and realistic yet wry wit."—Booklist Online STARRED on Must Love Dukes
She Can't Resist the DareLillian Phillips could not imagine how her quiet, simple life had come to this. Blackmailed by the Mad Duke of Thornwood into accepting one wild dare after another...all because of a pocket watch. Desperate to recover her beloved father's pawned timepiece, Lily did something reckless and dangerous and delicious—something that led to a night she'd never forget.
He has a Reputation for ScandalWhen Devon Grey, Duke of Thornwood, runs into a mesmerizing, intoxicating, thieving woman who literally stole from his bedchamber—with his new pocket watch—Devon plots his revenge. If the daring wench likes to play games, he's happy to oblige. After all, what's the ruse of being the Mad Duke if you can't have some fun? But the last laugh might just be on him...
Praise for Elizabeth "Rich with wit and charm."—Publishers Weekly on How to Lose a Lord in 10 Days or Less"Michels' fresh and funny debut will delight readers with its endearing characters and infectious mix of sweet yet sexy romance and realistic yet wry wit."—Booklist Online STARRED on Must Love Dukes
353 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2014
95 people are currently reading
1964 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Michels
6 books226 followersDo you want to know more about Elizabeth Michels? She loves to hear from her readers! Connect with her on social media!
Facebook: www.facebook.com/e.michels.novels
Elizabeth Michels is the award-winning author of the Tricks of the Ton series and the Spare Heirs series. This Regency Romance author grew up on a Christmas tree farm in rural South Carolina. After tip-toeing her way through school with her focus on ballet steps and her nose in a book, she met a boy and followed him a thousand miles away to Kansas City, Missouri where she lived for many years. Together, they spent their summers with his family in England, soaking up culture and history. Elizabeth attended Park University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BA in Interior Design.
Elizabeth now spends her days creating plots and concocting characters in a lake-side town in North Carolina. When she is not typing as fast as human movement will allow, she is caring for her husband and little boy. Elizabeth Michels is a lover of happily-ever-afters. Whether in her writing life or in her home life, she spends her days with one word on her lips: love. She invites you to read her stories, get lost and enjoy. www.elizabethmichels.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/e.michels.novels
Elizabeth Michels is the award-winning author of the Tricks of the Ton series and the Spare Heirs series. This Regency Romance author grew up on a Christmas tree farm in rural South Carolina. After tip-toeing her way through school with her focus on ballet steps and her nose in a book, she met a boy and followed him a thousand miles away to Kansas City, Missouri where she lived for many years. Together, they spent their summers with his family in England, soaking up culture and history. Elizabeth attended Park University where she graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BA in Interior Design.
Elizabeth now spends her days creating plots and concocting characters in a lake-side town in North Carolina. When she is not typing as fast as human movement will allow, she is caring for her husband and little boy. Elizabeth Michels is a lover of happily-ever-afters. Whether in her writing life or in her home life, she spends her days with one word on her lips: love. She invites you to read her stories, get lost and enjoy. www.elizabethmichels.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 164 reviews
September 29, 2019
This was my first Elizabeth Michels book and I totally enjoyed it!!
September 3, 2017
Pocket Watch - Late 18th century French/Swiss Watch at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York★★★½✩ I was debating between three and three-and-a-half stars here. I went with the half because there are some good things in this book. However, there is lots of room for improvement.
I had to make three attempts at this one. First, I tried to go with the audiobook. Ugh. The narrator’s voice sounded like my great-grandmother was reading me a romance. **shakes head** No, thanks! Maybe if it was a “One Foot on the Floor” Romance, but this has a little more to the love scenes.
After switching to the Kindle version, I just found the whole beginning implausible: the bar pick-up and one-night stand? In 1815? Among ton members, with one a virgin? Uhh. No. Also, the editing, and a few modern terms, took me out of the era - and therefore the book - more than once.
I went for it a third time, though, when I was getting desperate for a book from the “Debut Author” shelf for SOS’s Bookshelf Bingo. Not that there are a lot of great books on that shelf... but I’ve read a lot of them already. After reading 50-100 pages in four other books, and I figured I had made a bigger investment in this one, and bit the bullet.
Anyway...I felt the book was slow. And the whole blackmail theme didn’t work for me. I did’t think they were particularly funny (well, I did smile at one), nor fit the crime, nor plausible that the victim wouldn’t protest more, instead of just storm off in a huff.
I did like the ending, though. The plot was a little convoluted there at the end, and I really didn’t believe - but it did eventually put a smile on my face.
February 6, 2014
My first read by Elizabeth Michels and I'm glad I picked this one :)
A very light hearted,fun and romantic read!! Both Devon & Lily are adorable and the pranks they play had me crackin up there ;)
"The Mad Duke of Thornwood"
AND the fun word in this book was "Fret not! Fear not! :)
A very light hearted,fun and romantic read!! Both Devon & Lily are adorable and the pranks they play had me crackin up there ;)
"The Mad Duke of Thornwood"
AND the fun word in this book was "Fret not! Fear not! :)
December 28, 2013
My Rating: 4.5/5
Fun, sweet, and a lovely read, Must Love Dukes was a fantastic historical romance. I really enjoyed reading this book and I totally loved it!
Lily was a good heroine. She was strong and determined to get what she wanted. But, I did have a couple of issues with her. For one, she was prone to being way over dramatic, which got to be frustrating. And, two, for such a strong willed character, she didn't give any fight when her brothers forced her into a betrothal. It just didn't make sense to the rest of her character. So, both of those took away from my enjoyment of the book, but I still really liked it and I still liked Lily. Overall, she was good.
Devon, on the other hand, was so sweet! He was utterly adorable and charming and basically perfect. I thought he was a perfect hero and I adored him.
The romance was sweet. Lily and Devon were lovely together. And, the sparks were flying between them from the moment they met, so there was a dash of spice in their relationship. I thought they were a wonderful couple.
The plot was fast paced. I was hooked the entire way through. There were thrills, secrets, and a few surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was super sweet.
Must Love Dukes was a fantastic historical romance. I really loved this book. It was fun and sweet, had some thrills to keep things interesting. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll definitely want to read.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Fun, sweet, and a lovely read, Must Love Dukes was a fantastic historical romance. I really enjoyed reading this book and I totally loved it!
Lily was a good heroine. She was strong and determined to get what she wanted. But, I did have a couple of issues with her. For one, she was prone to being way over dramatic, which got to be frustrating. And, two, for such a strong willed character, she didn't give any fight when her brothers forced her into a betrothal. It just didn't make sense to the rest of her character. So, both of those took away from my enjoyment of the book, but I still really liked it and I still liked Lily. Overall, she was good.
Devon, on the other hand, was so sweet! He was utterly adorable and charming and basically perfect. I thought he was a perfect hero and I adored him.
The romance was sweet. Lily and Devon were lovely together. And, the sparks were flying between them from the moment they met, so there was a dash of spice in their relationship. I thought they were a wonderful couple.
The plot was fast paced. I was hooked the entire way through. There were thrills, secrets, and a few surprises that kept me on the edge of my seat. I really enjoyed the story and the ending was super sweet.
Must Love Dukes was a fantastic historical romance. I really loved this book. It was fun and sweet, had some thrills to keep things interesting. Romance lovers, this is a book you'll definitely want to read.
*I received a free copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
June 25, 2021
This is a new to me author and so I’m pleasantly surprised how much I enjoyed this. Lily and Devon were perfect for each other. I felt bad for Lily because her family treated her so bad, so I was rooting for her to have her HEA. And, Devon, he was swoon worthy. I loved how he got back at the ton! Some very humorous moments! This had the banter, the romance, great characters, and right amount of sex to make this a great book.
September 3, 2019
It is really hard to pin point the root of my disappointment with this book, but I suspect it came down to a lack of likable or well-developed characters, awkward dialogue, massive plot gaps, and narration so boring that I herbsed large swaths.
To begin, the author fades-to-black the opening sex scene that start their entire relationship. So you are left with SO MANY QUESTIONS! There are a couple of bizarre, brief flashbacks of them making out in the hallway, but again, fade to black on the intercourse. And the thing is, the intercourse should have held revelations. Not once in the entire book to they discuss the fact he took the virginity of an innocent lady, basically ruining her. Or how the sex actually when given it was her first time. Or how did he handle it - was he a gentle lover, how good was his foreplay, did she know the logistics of the act given how young her mum died and subsequent isolation with male family? What was going through the duke’s head as he deflowered an innocent who was completely falling down drunk (also a first time drinking for her) in his fully staffed townhouse, leaving clothes all over the house? Not once is this questionably immoral act pondered by anyone when this is divulged, let alone the main characters.
So whatever, let’s skip any and all detail, bypass all immoral conduct by the hero, then open scene to him going from deflowering a drunk virgin to violent rage that his brand new pocket watch was missing. Spoiler: He later tells her that he has loved her since that first night. No, no, he didn’t. He also physically destroyed the settee where he apparently gave it to her for the first time. Red flag city.
Next, there is no tension or build up to any interaction between the hero and heroine. I have no idea why they like each other beyond the fact he have a common interest in world travel? Even the conflict over the watch (was it supposed to be enemies to lovers), is superficial and it turns out that there is zero good reason for the heroine not to tell him why she stole the pocket watch. And the hero never seems to link her reasons for taking it to the estate sells explained by the shopkeeper. Clearly it was a family heirloom. Also there is no significance to the fox on it, but it is mentioned repeatedly. The hero cares nothing for the watch it turns out.
Magically her good brother buys her an entire wardrobe off the rack after her bad brothers tell her to show up for her London debut in her out of date country rags. So that Cinderella moment was a highly superficial conflict - one that her bad brother never even comments on when she shows up at the balls dressed to the nines for the rest of the book. Like he didn’t notice her “transformation”?
Despite the fact the heroine is apparently going off on an adventure in the first scene, she otherwise does absolutely nothing to change her situation. She is pretty much told what to do by men the entire book and accepts everything done and said to her. When dismissed and bullied by heinous brother, she is just all “Shrug! Guess my life will suck.”
Also you never find out wtf happened to her mother that resulted in this strange rift. I kept waiting for the dowager duchess to lat down some secrets - but nope. No point to that minor plot point.
Another issue: Everyone is totally cool and relatively open about the fact her good brother is gay and in a relationship with another powerful lord. Said lord, just drops it casually to the duke when asked about his motives and more “Shrug! Guess that explains why you were there!” No real historical implications around this (please see basically any book by KJ Charles).
Lastly (or the last point I’m going to make despite dozens in my head), the hero burns two entire ships in a childish fit. No repercussions. No thought to workers who may have been on board, or those on the dock who might die trying to put it out. Like zero thoughts outside of his own drama about not getting the girl. The hero is just a terrible, childish person — which was seen relatively quickly with his “pranks” utilizing animals (drugging a horse with an herb never used on horses before - risking its death), tricking hounds to attack a lord (the dogs will have likely been killed for it). The narcissism is absurd. Never once in the entire book does he think about anyone but himself.
I know this was a debut novel for the author, but to me that means she had forever to really hone this book and make for a tight plot with no gaps. At least make likable characters!
To begin, the author fades-to-black the opening sex scene that start their entire relationship. So you are left with SO MANY QUESTIONS! There are a couple of bizarre, brief flashbacks of them making out in the hallway, but again, fade to black on the intercourse. And the thing is, the intercourse should have held revelations. Not once in the entire book to they discuss the fact he took the virginity of an innocent lady, basically ruining her. Or how the sex actually when given it was her first time. Or how did he handle it - was he a gentle lover, how good was his foreplay, did she know the logistics of the act given how young her mum died and subsequent isolation with male family? What was going through the duke’s head as he deflowered an innocent who was completely falling down drunk (also a first time drinking for her) in his fully staffed townhouse, leaving clothes all over the house? Not once is this questionably immoral act pondered by anyone when this is divulged, let alone the main characters.
So whatever, let’s skip any and all detail, bypass all immoral conduct by the hero, then open scene to him going from deflowering a drunk virgin to violent rage that his brand new pocket watch was missing. Spoiler: He later tells her that he has loved her since that first night. No, no, he didn’t. He also physically destroyed the settee where he apparently gave it to her for the first time. Red flag city.
Next, there is no tension or build up to any interaction between the hero and heroine. I have no idea why they like each other beyond the fact he have a common interest in world travel? Even the conflict over the watch (was it supposed to be enemies to lovers), is superficial and it turns out that there is zero good reason for the heroine not to tell him why she stole the pocket watch. And the hero never seems to link her reasons for taking it to the estate sells explained by the shopkeeper. Clearly it was a family heirloom. Also there is no significance to the fox on it, but it is mentioned repeatedly. The hero cares nothing for the watch it turns out.
Magically her good brother buys her an entire wardrobe off the rack after her bad brothers tell her to show up for her London debut in her out of date country rags. So that Cinderella moment was a highly superficial conflict - one that her bad brother never even comments on when she shows up at the balls dressed to the nines for the rest of the book. Like he didn’t notice her “transformation”?
Despite the fact the heroine is apparently going off on an adventure in the first scene, she otherwise does absolutely nothing to change her situation. She is pretty much told what to do by men the entire book and accepts everything done and said to her. When dismissed and bullied by heinous brother, she is just all “Shrug! Guess my life will suck.”
Also you never find out wtf happened to her mother that resulted in this strange rift. I kept waiting for the dowager duchess to lat down some secrets - but nope. No point to that minor plot point.
Another issue: Everyone is totally cool and relatively open about the fact her good brother is gay and in a relationship with another powerful lord. Said lord, just drops it casually to the duke when asked about his motives and more “Shrug! Guess that explains why you were there!” No real historical implications around this (please see basically any book by KJ Charles).
Lastly (or the last point I’m going to make despite dozens in my head), the hero burns two entire ships in a childish fit. No repercussions. No thought to workers who may have been on board, or those on the dock who might die trying to put it out. Like zero thoughts outside of his own drama about not getting the girl. The hero is just a terrible, childish person — which was seen relatively quickly with his “pranks” utilizing animals (drugging a horse with an herb never used on horses before - risking its death), tricking hounds to attack a lord (the dogs will have likely been killed for it). The narcissism is absurd. Never once in the entire book does he think about anyone but himself.
I know this was a debut novel for the author, but to me that means she had forever to really hone this book and make for a tight plot with no gaps. At least make likable characters!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 7, 2014
Rated 4.5-Originally Posted on Addicted To Romance
Lily doesn't exactly like what she has been forced to do. But when her brother starts selling off family heirlooms, she is desperate to get even a few of them back. So when she finds her fathers pocket watch she tracks it down to the new owner, Devon Grey. She follows him and they bump into each other close to a pub, they share drinks and end up sharing a very passionate night together. The next morning Lily disappears along with his watch, and Devon is furious. Now a year later, Devon and Lily see each other at a ball, and sparks fly, tensions rise, and their desire is reignited. Devon then blackmails her into doing certain tricks that leave them both laughing at fools of the Ton. When Lily is being forced to be betrothed to a man that is totally wrong for her, will Devon be able to put everything else aside and claim her before its too late....
This was such a fantastic read, I can't even express how much I loved this story. I read this all last evening, and I loved every fun and humorous moment. Must Love Dukes is the first book from the debut author. I tend to get really nervous with debut authors, since I never know how I am going to enjoy them. After reading this title however, I am addicted to this author already and I can't wait to get my hands on the next two books in the series. From the blurb, it seems like this is a super complicated story, and its anything but. I never felt like I had a hard time concentrating, in fact I had such a fun time reading Must Love Dukes. It does start out with these two sharing facts and history about each other, while not giving out the full truth of each others identities and end up sharing a bed together. Then the plot thickens just a touch when Devon blackmails Lily. The way he goes about blackmailing her is quite witty, and some of the things he makes her do is quite humorous and will have you laughing your seat off, because in the end they end up benefiting Lily. Toward the end of the story there is quite a conflict that rises up, and the reader will end up full of tension wondering how this couple will reach their HEA.
The Characters in this story were so fun to get to know. Devon is, well, I would marry him if I could LOL. The schemes he creates are so creative and full of original thinking. Devon is not your usual rake stereotype hero. There is quite a bit more to him than meets the eye. Devon has a close attachment to his mother and sister, and even though he is angry at Lily, he ends up assisting her in his silly like blackmail games. Lily was a very human like character. She definitely makes her share of mistakes, but she is also put in a horrible position. I did admire her backbone at times, but then there was other times I wished she stood up more to her brothers, and even Devon a bit more. You can see how stubborn she can be at times, and occasionally I wanted to shake her. At other times, my heart did go out to Lily, because out of a father and three brothers, only one brother seems to care for her at all, the other just want to sell her to the highest bidder. I did enjoy some of the side characters such as Devon's family, and Lily's brother (the nice one :).) My favorite was Devon's mom, she was so endearing and I loved the way she tries to get Devon and Lily together.
Overall a sexy regency romp that will give you barrels of laughs, and captivate your attention from the first page. A delightful telling of a tale of two people that are more than perfect for each other. A wonderful beginning to Michels debut series that is guaranteed to give you a good time!! FABULOUS!!!
Lily doesn't exactly like what she has been forced to do. But when her brother starts selling off family heirlooms, she is desperate to get even a few of them back. So when she finds her fathers pocket watch she tracks it down to the new owner, Devon Grey. She follows him and they bump into each other close to a pub, they share drinks and end up sharing a very passionate night together. The next morning Lily disappears along with his watch, and Devon is furious. Now a year later, Devon and Lily see each other at a ball, and sparks fly, tensions rise, and their desire is reignited. Devon then blackmails her into doing certain tricks that leave them both laughing at fools of the Ton. When Lily is being forced to be betrothed to a man that is totally wrong for her, will Devon be able to put everything else aside and claim her before its too late....
This was such a fantastic read, I can't even express how much I loved this story. I read this all last evening, and I loved every fun and humorous moment. Must Love Dukes is the first book from the debut author. I tend to get really nervous with debut authors, since I never know how I am going to enjoy them. After reading this title however, I am addicted to this author already and I can't wait to get my hands on the next two books in the series. From the blurb, it seems like this is a super complicated story, and its anything but. I never felt like I had a hard time concentrating, in fact I had such a fun time reading Must Love Dukes. It does start out with these two sharing facts and history about each other, while not giving out the full truth of each others identities and end up sharing a bed together. Then the plot thickens just a touch when Devon blackmails Lily. The way he goes about blackmailing her is quite witty, and some of the things he makes her do is quite humorous and will have you laughing your seat off, because in the end they end up benefiting Lily. Toward the end of the story there is quite a conflict that rises up, and the reader will end up full of tension wondering how this couple will reach their HEA.
The Characters in this story were so fun to get to know. Devon is, well, I would marry him if I could LOL. The schemes he creates are so creative and full of original thinking. Devon is not your usual rake stereotype hero. There is quite a bit more to him than meets the eye. Devon has a close attachment to his mother and sister, and even though he is angry at Lily, he ends up assisting her in his silly like blackmail games. Lily was a very human like character. She definitely makes her share of mistakes, but she is also put in a horrible position. I did admire her backbone at times, but then there was other times I wished she stood up more to her brothers, and even Devon a bit more. You can see how stubborn she can be at times, and occasionally I wanted to shake her. At other times, my heart did go out to Lily, because out of a father and three brothers, only one brother seems to care for her at all, the other just want to sell her to the highest bidder. I did enjoy some of the side characters such as Devon's family, and Lily's brother (the nice one :).) My favorite was Devon's mom, she was so endearing and I loved the way she tries to get Devon and Lily together.
Overall a sexy regency romp that will give you barrels of laughs, and captivate your attention from the first page. A delightful telling of a tale of two people that are more than perfect for each other. A wonderful beginning to Michels debut series that is guaranteed to give you a good time!! FABULOUS!!!
January 18, 2014
I wasn't sure when I started if I would enjoy this but as I kept reading I was glad I did. The Mad Duke, our Devon is quite the devil and when he decides he wants something he goes all out to get it whether its getting revenge or getting the woman he wants. He has had to live down his fathers reputation of being mad all his life so he gives the Ton what they expect. Then we have our Miss Lily Phillips. She loves her dying father. Her brothers are selling their estate heirlooms out from under them and Lily has the last straw when her brother sells her fathers watch. When she goes to London to get it back its to late. Devon has already bought it. This is where Devon our Mad Duke and Lily meet. A little drinking, trickery, seduction by our innocent Lily leaves Devon alone in the morning and minus his new watch. She never expects to see him again until her brothers decide to sell her to the highest bidder. You really have to get this book. It has some really fun high jinx from the Mad Duke. I found it a fun romp. Lily's brothers are awlful but they get theirs in the end...Enjoy!!!!
July 16, 2014
Although this is Elizabeth Michels' debut work and credit must be given, I found several jarring errors in this story that prevented me from fully enjoying the read. The premise of a one-night stand between Lily and Devon to start off their interactions (post his catching her trying to steal from him) makes their relationship highly antagonistic, which doesn't improve throughout the story either. It seemed the lust became a huge focus on their relationship instead of the requisite love, which comes way later and so abrupt that it seems unbelievable. There is much potential here though the execution needs work.
*ARC from Netgalley for an honest review
Mini review.
*ARC from Netgalley for an honest review
Mini review.
February 4, 2014
Mad Dukes and Mayhem!
I must admit that I was intrigued by the slightly surreal opening of this novel.
Devon, the Mad Duke of Thornwood, being stalked through the streets of London by a determined young woman into areas no respectable woman should wander!
A desperate act indeed. So we are thrown into a situation that begs for further questions and prompt enlightenment.
Which of course the rest of the story sets out to do. What is involved is a pocket watch and a young woman's purposefulness.
Lillian Whitby as it unfolds was that woman. At home she is the one that holds her family estate together whilst her brothers sell off all that's worthwhile with nary a thought for her. Two of her brothers, the Bad brothers, at the Baddest Brother's urging, decide that the only thing left of value to sell to the highest bidder is Lily. Certainly BB (Baddest Brother) Solomon makes the suggestion to bad brother, Joshia.
Lily is sent to London for a season (without the benefit of a wardrobe, I might add) to meet a succession of ghastly suitors that Solomon, for his own nefarious reasons, parades before her. All Lily wants is her freedom from the bullying men of the family and in marriage. 'Where is the third door?' she ponders.
Naturally, it's at a London society ball that Lily re-meets Devon. Having not being able to rid himself of the memory of Lily, Thornwood recognizes her and then blackmails her into carrying out a variety of misdeeds. Along the way strange mishaps start to occur to Lily's suitors. Her brothers become suspicious.
Devon is cast by society as the Mad Duke. A role he has over time decided to embrace with alacrity.
As Devon says, 'It's the ton's self-appointed job to degrade and cast out those who step out of line...I've spent a great deal of time stepping out of line...I have the winnings of a nice little bet...to assuage my anger.'
Meanwhile, Devon's mother, the Dower Duchess of Thornwood, is trying to coax her son into marriage. Mmm!
Regency times when seen through the filter of this story has some very strange starts indeed!
Certainly this a love story with a difference. Suspend belief and enjoy!
A NetGalley ARC
I must admit that I was intrigued by the slightly surreal opening of this novel.
Devon, the Mad Duke of Thornwood, being stalked through the streets of London by a determined young woman into areas no respectable woman should wander!
A desperate act indeed. So we are thrown into a situation that begs for further questions and prompt enlightenment.
Which of course the rest of the story sets out to do. What is involved is a pocket watch and a young woman's purposefulness.
Lillian Whitby as it unfolds was that woman. At home she is the one that holds her family estate together whilst her brothers sell off all that's worthwhile with nary a thought for her. Two of her brothers, the Bad brothers, at the Baddest Brother's urging, decide that the only thing left of value to sell to the highest bidder is Lily. Certainly BB (Baddest Brother) Solomon makes the suggestion to bad brother, Joshia.
Lily is sent to London for a season (without the benefit of a wardrobe, I might add) to meet a succession of ghastly suitors that Solomon, for his own nefarious reasons, parades before her. All Lily wants is her freedom from the bullying men of the family and in marriage. 'Where is the third door?' she ponders.
Naturally, it's at a London society ball that Lily re-meets Devon. Having not being able to rid himself of the memory of Lily, Thornwood recognizes her and then blackmails her into carrying out a variety of misdeeds. Along the way strange mishaps start to occur to Lily's suitors. Her brothers become suspicious.
Devon is cast by society as the Mad Duke. A role he has over time decided to embrace with alacrity.
As Devon says, 'It's the ton's self-appointed job to degrade and cast out those who step out of line...I've spent a great deal of time stepping out of line...I have the winnings of a nice little bet...to assuage my anger.'
Meanwhile, Devon's mother, the Dower Duchess of Thornwood, is trying to coax her son into marriage. Mmm!
Regency times when seen through the filter of this story has some very strange starts indeed!
Certainly this a love story with a difference. Suspend belief and enjoy!
A NetGalley ARC
June 12, 2014
This is the first installment of Ms. Michaels’ Tricks of the Ton series. The setting of it is in series Regency England and follows three ladies as they deal with an aftermath of their choices. This first story tells the tale of trust and forgiveness and I would have bought it if it was even remotely believable, but it wasn’t to me.
As a matter a fact, the whole plot was forgettable because ... thanks for jumping to b2b to finish my review ...
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
As a matter a fact, the whole plot was forgettable because ... thanks for jumping to b2b to finish my review ...
http://bookworm2bookworm.wordpress.co...
Melanie for b2b
Complimentary copy provided by the publisher
February 1, 2014
There was never a dull moment in this book from the opening chapter to the epilogue. I found Lillian and Devon to be delightful. There was a cast of great supporting characters (his mother is awesome!), some nasty villains and a twist in some minor characters that I didn't expect. This novel belongs on my e-reader shelf!
Read the full review and synopsis at my blog: http://letague.blogspot.com/2013/12/m...
Read the full review and synopsis at my blog: http://letague.blogspot.com/2013/12/m...
December 12, 2013
Fun book to read! Read in one sitting because I couldn't put it down. Great character's that you root for and one or two That deserve a smack :) One click this you won't be sorry.
March 11, 2016
Fun, short and light!
Want to read
March 2, 2016March 3, 2016: Free on Amazon! http://www.amazon.com/Must-Love-Dukes...
dnf
October 27, 2020DNF after chapter 5. 26%
February 15, 2014
A problem is your chance to do your best. – Duke Ellington
Duke’s affirmation holds true to the characters in Elizabeth Michel’s MUST LOVE DUKES. Devon Grey, an heir to a dukedom, prefers an exotic adventure to the placid ton. When he becomes the duke, he is called home to his responsibilities (responsibilities that readers learn later in the book). Meanwhile, Lillian Phillips, the daugther of a titled gentlemen, dreams of exotic adventure. But she is stuck in the country, managing her family’s estate as her father languishes and her oldest brother, the heir, ignores his responsibilities.
Fate brings them together on Bond Street after Lillian’s brother sells her family’s heirlooms to pay for his gambling debts. She learns that “the gentleman leaving the shop” purchased her father’s pocket watch. Lillian follows him to a seedy pub. Devon realizes that he is being followed and leads the woman in a dated dress to the seedy pub. Once they meet, they enjoy a drink, let down their guard, and realize that they share common interests – exotic adventure. Like Cinderella, Lillian disappears after their "dance together", with her father's pocket watch in hand. Devon is left to wonder who is the mysterious thief.
One year later, both Devon and Lillian are forced by their families onto the Marriage Market. For Devon, it is to carry on the family name. For Lillian, it is to bring in financial windfall for her middle brother. Luckily, her third brother gives her some relief by allowing her to live with him in London. Fate again brings Devon and Lillian together at a ball … and their dance begins again.
As they sift through their feelings from the pub, the expectation of family, and the reality of their future, Lillian and Devon learn to enjoy each other’s company. In fact, Devon enlists Lillian in a series of pranks that livens up the social gatherins of the staid ton.
MUST LOVE DUKES was a joy to read – it delivers charm, warmth, and humor. Michels creates memorable characters who stand out from the bejeweled ton with their witty personalities. Regency romance is my favorite genre - Elizabeth Michels is a new voice to keep the Beau Monde fresh. I look forward to more entertaining reads from Elizabeth Michels!
I received an ARC from Sourcebooks for an honest review.
Duke’s affirmation holds true to the characters in Elizabeth Michel’s MUST LOVE DUKES. Devon Grey, an heir to a dukedom, prefers an exotic adventure to the placid ton. When he becomes the duke, he is called home to his responsibilities (responsibilities that readers learn later in the book). Meanwhile, Lillian Phillips, the daugther of a titled gentlemen, dreams of exotic adventure. But she is stuck in the country, managing her family’s estate as her father languishes and her oldest brother, the heir, ignores his responsibilities.
Fate brings them together on Bond Street after Lillian’s brother sells her family’s heirlooms to pay for his gambling debts. She learns that “the gentleman leaving the shop” purchased her father’s pocket watch. Lillian follows him to a seedy pub. Devon realizes that he is being followed and leads the woman in a dated dress to the seedy pub. Once they meet, they enjoy a drink, let down their guard, and realize that they share common interests – exotic adventure. Like Cinderella, Lillian disappears after their "dance together", with her father's pocket watch in hand. Devon is left to wonder who is the mysterious thief.
One year later, both Devon and Lillian are forced by their families onto the Marriage Market. For Devon, it is to carry on the family name. For Lillian, it is to bring in financial windfall for her middle brother. Luckily, her third brother gives her some relief by allowing her to live with him in London. Fate again brings Devon and Lillian together at a ball … and their dance begins again.
As they sift through their feelings from the pub, the expectation of family, and the reality of their future, Lillian and Devon learn to enjoy each other’s company. In fact, Devon enlists Lillian in a series of pranks that livens up the social gatherins of the staid ton.
MUST LOVE DUKES was a joy to read – it delivers charm, warmth, and humor. Michels creates memorable characters who stand out from the bejeweled ton with their witty personalities. Regency romance is my favorite genre - Elizabeth Michels is a new voice to keep the Beau Monde fresh. I look forward to more entertaining reads from Elizabeth Michels!
I received an ARC from Sourcebooks for an honest review.
March 30, 2016
In all honesty, i enjoyed this book in cartain parts...it had a good story - lot of good twist and turns, great villians (if you hate villians, they have done their job well - in this case, I absolutely loathed them)
At times, the novel became more about sub plots rather than protagonists.
I am giving it 2 stars mainly because in the major part of the book - Thronewood has treated Lillian just the way her villainous brother Solomon did - used her to get his own agenda achieved.... On the other hand,I can give him some credit because this guy really went all the way once he realized he loved Lillian. He apologized for blackmail, tried to convince his brothers...he even went on to burn his entire ship-fleet - his one way ticket to securing income !!! He is not a flawless charecter but he is relatable and likable.
On the other side.....Lillian was an extremely weak women. Even when her life is being traded like a commodity... She doesn't get angry at her brother. She 'pleads'.
She was interesting only till she fled after her one night stand. Apart from that....she is an extremely weak protagonist and infact she just accepts whatever is being thrown at her - whether it is Solomon's caustic demands, Nathenial's denial to shelter her or Thornwood's blackmail. If she really wanted....she could have thought of some way to get herself out of her brother's clutches... But none of such efforts were taken. And most annoying part was that while our hero was madly burning his ships, being manhandled and fighting for his love.....this lady was sipping tea awaiting her bethrotal announcement to some random dude she never met. What a incompatible pair.
The book does not offer too much erotic content. With confused and incompatible protagonists, i don't think i liked it very much. I prefer my stories with equal in every way kind of protagonists and strong characters. I would have liked it far far better if only i liked Lillian a bit. She was an utter disappointment.
At times, the novel became more about sub plots rather than protagonists.
I am giving it 2 stars mainly because in the major part of the book - Thronewood has treated Lillian just the way her villainous brother Solomon did - used her to get his own agenda achieved.... On the other hand,I can give him some credit because this guy really went all the way once he realized he loved Lillian. He apologized for blackmail, tried to convince his brothers...he even went on to burn his entire ship-fleet - his one way ticket to securing income !!! He is not a flawless charecter but he is relatable and likable.
On the other side.....Lillian was an extremely weak women. Even when her life is being traded like a commodity... She doesn't get angry at her brother. She 'pleads'.
She was interesting only till she fled after her one night stand. Apart from that....she is an extremely weak protagonist and infact she just accepts whatever is being thrown at her - whether it is Solomon's caustic demands, Nathenial's denial to shelter her or Thornwood's blackmail. If she really wanted....she could have thought of some way to get herself out of her brother's clutches... But none of such efforts were taken. And most annoying part was that while our hero was madly burning his ships, being manhandled and fighting for his love.....this lady was sipping tea awaiting her bethrotal announcement to some random dude she never met. What a incompatible pair.
The book does not offer too much erotic content. With confused and incompatible protagonists, i don't think i liked it very much. I prefer my stories with equal in every way kind of protagonists and strong characters. I would have liked it far far better if only i liked Lillian a bit. She was an utter disappointment.
February 19, 2020
The back cover says "I dare you" followed by "She can't resist a dare" but this story had nothing to do with a dare(s). She has a passionate one night-stand with Devon after following him to steal a pocket watch he has just purchased at "pawn" shop. Said watch was pawned by her brother and belonged to her father and she wants it. This is not a theme I enjoy in romance but I kept reading. After a year the two reacquaint and he blackmails her into doing a couple of pranks or he'll expose the one-night stand and theft and ruin her. Again, not a theme that tends to lead to a love match. In fact, the only thread that makes a HEA believable between these two is the attraction originally felt and consistently is felt between them which, of course, is a closely kept secret by each of them. I could never fall in love with someone who threatened me with exposure that would ostracize me from society.
I wanted to like Devon but he is a boy-child carrying a load of resentment which he tries to assuage with the pranks he forces Lillian to carry out. He's a duke, and yet he behaves as if he is a commoner who resents the aristocracy.
Lillian is a more consistent character. Poor girl, she is severely manipulated by two of her greedy brothers. Another brother champions her until the situation gets too dire and then throws up his hands and abandons her to her fate.
This author know how to write stress but not strong, honorable characters.
I wanted to like Devon but he is a boy-child carrying a load of resentment which he tries to assuage with the pranks he forces Lillian to carry out. He's a duke, and yet he behaves as if he is a commoner who resents the aristocracy.
Lillian is a more consistent character. Poor girl, she is severely manipulated by two of her greedy brothers. Another brother champions her until the situation gets too dire and then throws up his hands and abandons her to her fate.
This author know how to write stress but not strong, honorable characters.
January 9, 2014
Devon is something else and I loved him, "I'm planing to sit there by that dirty window. I always find the afternoon light to be the nicest when viewed through a hundred years of grime." He took a few steps across the room before turning to look at her with an easy smile. "Care to join me?" The boy has no tolerance for rude a**es who touch his woman, "Devon was out of his chair and over the table in a heartbeat. He and the man toppled to the floor together. His fist connected with the man's jar. How dare he touch Lily in that manner?" And he means business, "next time you choose to wager, choose someone else's lady. For f you or anyone else ever lays a hand on her again, I'll come back here and kill you with my bare hands." He also loves to show his lady how turned on she gets him, "he ground his hips into hers in a way that made her breathless and flushed. "It is not the fall that has me concerned," he said, thrusting his hips into hers once more and watching as she gasped." And he really does care for his girl, "your family doesn't care for you." He released one hand to tilt her chin up, looking her in the eye as he said, "I do."
February 3, 2014
MUST LOVE DUKES by Elizabeth Michels is an exciting Regency Historical Romance set in 1815 England. Book 1 in "The Tricks of the Ton" series. What a beginning! I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Lillian Phillips and the Mad Duke of Thornwood, Devon Greys. What a delightful tale of love, passion, and romance, with a bit of mystery and a secret or two thrown into the mix. You will not be disappointed in "Must Love Dukes". You also have a touch of blackmail, a mean-spirited brother,mystery and a few laughs along the way. Fast paced with engaging, believable, lovable characters and an intriguing, interesting storyline. I read with baited breathe to see rather Devon and Lillian would really make it to the altar together, or if Lillian would do as she was directed by one of her mean-spirited brothers. A great read. I can hardly wait to read the next installment in this exciting new series by a very talented author. Received for an honest review from the publisher and Net Galley.
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
RATING: 4.5
HEAT RATING: HOT
REVIEWED BY: AprilR, courtesy of My Book Addiction and More
February 8, 2014
This was a very enjoyable book, and at times very funny. Devon Grey, Duke of Thornwood, had a watch stolen from him which he can not forgive, or forget the beautiful young woman who took it, his ego is bruised. Lillian Phillips can not forget Devon and the passionate night they had. When they accidentally meet again Devon decides to black-mail Lillian. He plans tasks for her to do or he will ruin her reputation, he'd been looking for her and he want's revenge, and some of the out comes are hilarious. Once I started reading this story it was hard to put down, I just had to know what the next task would be. I highly recommend this book for a fast, fun, read.
This was Elizabeth Micheis debut novel, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the Tricks of the Ton series.
I received a free copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was Elizabeth Micheis debut novel, and I'm looking forward to the next book in the Tricks of the Ton series.
I received a free copy of this title from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
February 6, 2014
Must Love Dukes had some good moments. It was historical but a wallpaper one. The only historical details were a few dresses and balls. Very little details.
The beginning of the book was the hero and heroine jumping into bed together the first night they met. Then they separate for a year because they don't know the identity of each other since they used fake names.
They run into each other later and the duke spends the rest of the story chasing off the rest of her suitors. In hilarious ways.
There were some pretty funny conversations.
Overall, this book was just ok. It had its moments but it needed more good parts. Parts of it dragged.
The beginning of the book was the hero and heroine jumping into bed together the first night they met. Then they separate for a year because they don't know the identity of each other since they used fake names.
They run into each other later and the duke spends the rest of the story chasing off the rest of her suitors. In hilarious ways.
There were some pretty funny conversations.
Overall, this book was just ok. It had its moments but it needed more good parts. Parts of it dragged.
January 31, 2014
Disclosure: I received this ARC via Netgalley. Thank you to Elizabeth Michels and Sourcebooks Casablanca for the opportunity. Yes, this is an honest review.
* * *
The first thought that came to mind as I was reading through the early chapters of Elizabeth Michels's debut novel, Must Love Dukes, is that she mixed up the sequence of the love story. And this is a good thing. Her hero and heroine end up sleeping together first and then spend the rest of the novel figuring out what kind of relationship they have. It's a refreshing change from the conventional love story. The novelty of the beginning piqued my interests and made me excited for how the author would lay out the rest of her story.
In between the beginning and the end, we read about how Devon wrestles with his attraction to Lily and his sense of betrayal because he doesn't know if he can forgive or trust her when she stole his pocket watch after their night together and then also discovering that she lied about her name, and her life. A battle of wills ensues as Devon seeks Lily's help in exacting his revenge against his late father's detractors. It's a test for both Lillian and the readers as Devon instructs her to do some seemingly mundane tasks for him. Part of me wondered about Devon's intentions and shared Lily's debate on whether she should trust him and go through with the task. It would have been so easy to just refuse him --
But, I guess it is a testament of Lily's love for Devon. Even when she didn't realise it (yet), something within her innately trusted Devon and recognised that this is a man who cannot possibly do anything wrong. So, she accomplishes her tasks and then see the results of her action/contribution to Devon's schemes. This led me to reflect on a second point: was Devon in sole control of their relationship? It seemed like it because he would issue a dare and Lily would follow. In fact, the blurb highlights the role of "dares" in Devon and Lily's courtship.
What is a "dare"? I think this word has taken on a bit of a negative connotation in our times (to mean something foolish or reckless) but, it actually means to have the courage to do something. This is exactly what Lily needed to do in her life: her elder brothers are dictating what she should be doing for her own sake and for the sake of their family -- but it is not what Lily wants to do. Her protests fall to deaf ears as her brothers, especially Solomon Phillips, continues to pull her hither-and-to like a puppet for their own pleasure and advancement. Even if it was not Devon's primary intention, he actually gave Lily the tools to speak her own truth when he dared Lily to do those tasks for him.
Their courtship does not happen in the traditional sense, but it is to be expected from a couple who did not meet in the usual way. Still, I kept waiting for the same spark of attraction and awareness that blazed so brightly in the early chapters to show up in the latter chapters -- but, sadly, it does not and I thought this was a lost opportunity for the author -- because the conversation between Lily and Devon at the Stag and Doe tavern over sangarees was amazing and the chemistry between the two was so very obvious. Throughout the story, they never discuss or revisit what happened to them a year ago: there is no confrontation, no explanation -- and, I felt a bit frustrated when they ignore the building blocks that they had laid out a year ago and built a new relationship on a different foundation.
Reading this story made me realise how impatient I am as a reader -- when an action happens, I want the explanation for that action to happen now (or, at least, soon); when the hero or heroine says something, I want the explanation for it now (or, at least, soon) -- this is not the case for this story. This is a story that requires a great deal of trust and patience from the readers. In fact, the reason behind Lily's theft of Devon's pocket watch (which happens in the first three chapters) is not explained until the very end of the story.
Elizabeth Michels poses a lot of questions at the start of the story (Why did Lily follow Devon into the bar? Why did she steal the pocket watch? Why didn't Devon say who he was? etc.) and, to her credit, she does a good job of building up suspense before revealing all in the end. My one small, small problem with it, however, is that I honestly thought the reason wasn't substantial enough to justify the loss of Lily's virginity to Devon. It was too big a sacrifice and I don't know if this makes the heroine incredibly noble or incredibly unwise.
Devon's motivations were much easier to understand. His father died with the world thinking he was mad. Devon has inherited the dukedom and, sadly, the same reputation and is known in society as "The Mad Duke" -- is Devon really mad? No. I actually loved how intelligent he was and how differently he saw the world.
Is he loveable? As the title asks/requires us to? I have to admit that Devon has a certain charm and he does endear himself to me as a character -- especially in the end, when the situation calls on Devon to take on a dare of his own: To love Lily and to show the world just how much he does.
Must Love Dukes is the first book in Elizabeth Michels's Tricks of the Ton series and her debut historical romance novel. It will be released on February 4, 2014.
* * *
The first thought that came to mind as I was reading through the early chapters of Elizabeth Michels's debut novel, Must Love Dukes, is that she mixed up the sequence of the love story. And this is a good thing. Her hero and heroine end up sleeping together first and then spend the rest of the novel figuring out what kind of relationship they have. It's a refreshing change from the conventional love story. The novelty of the beginning piqued my interests and made me excited for how the author would lay out the rest of her story.
In between the beginning and the end, we read about how Devon wrestles with his attraction to Lily and his sense of betrayal because he doesn't know if he can forgive or trust her when she stole his pocket watch after their night together and then also discovering that she lied about her name, and her life. A battle of wills ensues as Devon seeks Lily's help in exacting his revenge against his late father's detractors. It's a test for both Lillian and the readers as Devon instructs her to do some seemingly mundane tasks for him. Part of me wondered about Devon's intentions and shared Lily's debate on whether she should trust him and go through with the task. It would have been so easy to just refuse him --
"When you dance the next waltz with Hingsworth, you will place this in his pocket without his notice." He pulled a handkerchief free, holding it between his fingers in front of her.
"I do not wish to be near that man, much less have my fingers in his pockets."
"As much as it warms my heart to know that you only enjoy delving into my pockets, this is what you must do to keep my silence. It's for your own reputation, Lily. I can just as easily tell the world what happened between us."
"What is the significance of this handkerchief?"
"It is the metaphorical handkerchief waved at the beginning of a great race. Its whiteness is a symbol of your unblemished past and purity. It's a square of linen, which represents the paths of our lives woven together in this moment." A smile broke across his face.
"You know that's not what I meant. What will this do? What will happen? Does this handkerchief belong to Hingsworth?"
"No, as it happens, it is an old one of mine. But that's no consequence. Do as I say and all will go to plan."
"What plan?"
"You will see." He grinned.
- loc 1411 to loc 1420
But, I guess it is a testament of Lily's love for Devon. Even when she didn't realise it (yet), something within her innately trusted Devon and recognised that this is a man who cannot possibly do anything wrong. So, she accomplishes her tasks and then see the results of her action/contribution to Devon's schemes. This led me to reflect on a second point: was Devon in sole control of their relationship? It seemed like it because he would issue a dare and Lily would follow. In fact, the blurb highlights the role of "dares" in Devon and Lily's courtship.
What is a "dare"? I think this word has taken on a bit of a negative connotation in our times (to mean something foolish or reckless) but, it actually means to have the courage to do something. This is exactly what Lily needed to do in her life: her elder brothers are dictating what she should be doing for her own sake and for the sake of their family -- but it is not what Lily wants to do. Her protests fall to deaf ears as her brothers, especially Solomon Phillips, continues to pull her hither-and-to like a puppet for their own pleasure and advancement. Even if it was not Devon's primary intention, he actually gave Lily the tools to speak her own truth when he dared Lily to do those tasks for him.
Their courtship does not happen in the traditional sense, but it is to be expected from a couple who did not meet in the usual way. Still, I kept waiting for the same spark of attraction and awareness that blazed so brightly in the early chapters to show up in the latter chapters -- but, sadly, it does not and I thought this was a lost opportunity for the author -- because the conversation between Lily and Devon at the Stag and Doe tavern over sangarees was amazing and the chemistry between the two was so very obvious. Throughout the story, they never discuss or revisit what happened to them a year ago: there is no confrontation, no explanation -- and, I felt a bit frustrated when they ignore the building blocks that they had laid out a year ago and built a new relationship on a different foundation.
Reading this story made me realise how impatient I am as a reader -- when an action happens, I want the explanation for that action to happen now (or, at least, soon); when the hero or heroine says something, I want the explanation for it now (or, at least, soon) -- this is not the case for this story. This is a story that requires a great deal of trust and patience from the readers. In fact, the reason behind Lily's theft of Devon's pocket watch (which happens in the first three chapters) is not explained until the very end of the story.
Elizabeth Michels poses a lot of questions at the start of the story (Why did Lily follow Devon into the bar? Why did she steal the pocket watch? Why didn't Devon say who he was? etc.) and, to her credit, she does a good job of building up suspense before revealing all in the end. My one small, small problem with it, however, is that I honestly thought the reason wasn't substantial enough to justify the loss of Lily's virginity to Devon. It was too big a sacrifice and I don't know if this makes the heroine incredibly noble or incredibly unwise.
Devon's motivations were much easier to understand. His father died with the world thinking he was mad. Devon has inherited the dukedom and, sadly, the same reputation and is known in society as "The Mad Duke" -- is Devon really mad? No. I actually loved how intelligent he was and how differently he saw the world.
"You know you tilt your chin to the right when you're angry?"
"Shhhh. We are enjoying the view in silence."
"Right." A moment passed and all the while she could feel his gaze on her. "The Himalayan goral gets a similar peevish look when you near its young."
- loc 1778
Is he loveable? As the title asks/requires us to? I have to admit that Devon has a certain charm and he does endear himself to me as a character -- especially in the end, when the situation calls on Devon to take on a dare of his own: To love Lily and to show the world just how much he does.
Must Love Dukes is the first book in Elizabeth Michels's Tricks of the Ton series and her debut historical romance novel. It will be released on February 4, 2014.
February 12, 2018
A strong start and a strong finish (very strong finish -- quite dramatic imagery) ensure that I will read this author again.
October 13, 2020
Better than I thought it would be. It has some funny moments and some moments where your heart went out to Lilly. It’s a 3.5 for me
October 14, 2023
The historicity of this book is questionable, but it was very entertaining.
August 12, 2016
Originally reviewed for: Historical Romance Lover blog
This is book 1 in the Tricks of the Ton series.
Lillian Phillips must travel to London to buy back the family heirlooms that were sold off to pay for her brother's gambling debts. Unfortunately, when she arrives she is told that her father's watch was just sold. Lillian decided to follow the man and try to get the watch back.
Devon Grey, Duke of Thornwood, is on his way to having a nice leisurely drink at a local pub when he senses that someone is following him. He can't imagine why the young woman is following him.
When he arrives at the pub, Lillian makes herself known and they sit down for a drink. After several drinks and lots of talk, Devon invites Lillian back to his place to see all the artifacts he has collected on his many journeys. They have been fighting their mutual attraction all night and when they arrive at Devon's home one thing leads to another....
Early the next morning, Lillian sneaks out of the house but not before finding that watch that started it all. Devon awakens to find Lillian and his watch missing. Since Lillian gave him a fake name, he is unable to find the thief.
A year passes and Lillian's bother is determined that it is time for her to marry. She must pick a husband from a list he has put together. Of course, she runs into Devon at the first ball she attends and he is ready for revenge. In exchange for Lillian doing a few things for him, he will not tell everyone about their night a year ago. Lillian agrees and soon learns that Devon's plans have a positive effect for her. He is getting the men on her brother's list out of the picture.
Can Lillian hold out on getting married until she reaches her majority or will spending all that time with Devon change her mind about marriage?
This was an awesome debut novel by Elizabeth Michels. I love when the banter between the h/h has me laughing out loud and Michels achieved this over and over again. I love that Lillian stood up to her brother as much as she could and what Devon was willing to give up to marry her. Devon's mother was a secondary character that I fell in love with. She saw what her son was unwilling to admit and did what she could to manipulate the situation.
An interesting addition to the novel was Lillian's gay brother. It's been alluded to in other novels that I have read, but it's never been blatantly out there. I LOVE when authors throw an element into the story that makes it unique. Michels did a wonderful job of adding this to the storyline without it overpowering it.
We met the h/h of the next novel, Sue and Holden (Desperately Seeking Suzanna), during this story. Having already seen the interaction between the two of them, I am on pins and needles waiting for it to come out! My fingers are crossed that we are able to see more of Lillian and Devon as their story unfolds.
Thanks go out to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
This is book 1 in the Tricks of the Ton series.
Lillian Phillips must travel to London to buy back the family heirlooms that were sold off to pay for her brother's gambling debts. Unfortunately, when she arrives she is told that her father's watch was just sold. Lillian decided to follow the man and try to get the watch back.
Devon Grey, Duke of Thornwood, is on his way to having a nice leisurely drink at a local pub when he senses that someone is following him. He can't imagine why the young woman is following him.
When he arrives at the pub, Lillian makes herself known and they sit down for a drink. After several drinks and lots of talk, Devon invites Lillian back to his place to see all the artifacts he has collected on his many journeys. They have been fighting their mutual attraction all night and when they arrive at Devon's home one thing leads to another....
Early the next morning, Lillian sneaks out of the house but not before finding that watch that started it all. Devon awakens to find Lillian and his watch missing. Since Lillian gave him a fake name, he is unable to find the thief.
A year passes and Lillian's bother is determined that it is time for her to marry. She must pick a husband from a list he has put together. Of course, she runs into Devon at the first ball she attends and he is ready for revenge. In exchange for Lillian doing a few things for him, he will not tell everyone about their night a year ago. Lillian agrees and soon learns that Devon's plans have a positive effect for her. He is getting the men on her brother's list out of the picture.
Can Lillian hold out on getting married until she reaches her majority or will spending all that time with Devon change her mind about marriage?
This was an awesome debut novel by Elizabeth Michels. I love when the banter between the h/h has me laughing out loud and Michels achieved this over and over again. I love that Lillian stood up to her brother as much as she could and what Devon was willing to give up to marry her. Devon's mother was a secondary character that I fell in love with. She saw what her son was unwilling to admit and did what she could to manipulate the situation.
An interesting addition to the novel was Lillian's gay brother. It's been alluded to in other novels that I have read, but it's never been blatantly out there. I LOVE when authors throw an element into the story that makes it unique. Michels did a wonderful job of adding this to the storyline without it overpowering it.
We met the h/h of the next novel, Sue and Holden (Desperately Seeking Suzanna), during this story. Having already seen the interaction between the two of them, I am on pins and needles waiting for it to come out! My fingers are crossed that we are able to see more of Lillian and Devon as their story unfolds.
Thanks go out to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for a copy of the book in exchange of an honest review.
February 10, 2014
4.5 Humorous, swoon-worthy and well paced with colorful characters that left me anxious for more by this author.
Lily Phillips in an attempt to retrieve property sold by her brother goes to London dressed in one of her mother’s outdated dresses where in one night she meets a handsome man, shares a night of passion and steals back a family piece. She returns to the countryside prepared to live as a spinster but her brother has other ideas and a year later she returns to London. Her brother intends to arrange a marriage that will benefit his pockets. Now her path cross with the stranger from a year ago. The one who invades her dreams, only to discover he is Devon Grey, the Duke of Thornwood known amongst the peerage as the Mad Duke. Devon has been miserable the past year thinking about the woman who warmed his bed and stole from him. The tale that unfolds is delicious, as these two tango. Devon has Lily assist him by pulling pranks and discouraging the dreadful men on her brother’s list of prospective husbands. Will these two find their happily ever after?
Michels introduced such wonderful, tormented, head strong characters. Lily was a breath of fresh air, despite her dastardly brother she is sentimental, ever the lady and just a tiny bit naughty. I loved when she laughed and wanted more. Devon is swoon-worthy from his rakish good looks, to his outlandish behavior. The ton wants a madman and he gives them one. Devon’s mother the Duchess was wonderfully meddlesome and I quite liked her. Lily has several brothers and I adored one of them. Michels provided a little side story regarding him. The men on her brother’s list of possible husbands all made me cringe and I enjoyed seeing them come undone. Suzanna a childhood friend of Lily’s and Holden Ellis, Lord Steelings, friend to the Mad Duke are ever present. They provided aid but something curious is going on between them and I am anxious to discover their secrets.
Must Love Dukes was a captivating romp from the very first pages. The characters were fresh and likable while the plot had just enough twists to keep me entertained without overdoing it. The interaction between Devon and Lily was such fun, never have I rooted for two characters. Mischief, stolen moments, laughter and growth are all present. I loved watching Devon go from blackmailing Lily to realizing what his true feelings were. The story was well paced as it ebbed and flowed towards a nerve wracking conclusion that left me giddy. While the tale begins with a heated love scene overall it is pretty tame by historical romance standards and I found it well balanced and genuine.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for unbiased review that originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
Lily Phillips in an attempt to retrieve property sold by her brother goes to London dressed in one of her mother’s outdated dresses where in one night she meets a handsome man, shares a night of passion and steals back a family piece. She returns to the countryside prepared to live as a spinster but her brother has other ideas and a year later she returns to London. Her brother intends to arrange a marriage that will benefit his pockets. Now her path cross with the stranger from a year ago. The one who invades her dreams, only to discover he is Devon Grey, the Duke of Thornwood known amongst the peerage as the Mad Duke. Devon has been miserable the past year thinking about the woman who warmed his bed and stole from him. The tale that unfolds is delicious, as these two tango. Devon has Lily assist him by pulling pranks and discouraging the dreadful men on her brother’s list of prospective husbands. Will these two find their happily ever after?
Michels introduced such wonderful, tormented, head strong characters. Lily was a breath of fresh air, despite her dastardly brother she is sentimental, ever the lady and just a tiny bit naughty. I loved when she laughed and wanted more. Devon is swoon-worthy from his rakish good looks, to his outlandish behavior. The ton wants a madman and he gives them one. Devon’s mother the Duchess was wonderfully meddlesome and I quite liked her. Lily has several brothers and I adored one of them. Michels provided a little side story regarding him. The men on her brother’s list of possible husbands all made me cringe and I enjoyed seeing them come undone. Suzanna a childhood friend of Lily’s and Holden Ellis, Lord Steelings, friend to the Mad Duke are ever present. They provided aid but something curious is going on between them and I am anxious to discover their secrets.
Must Love Dukes was a captivating romp from the very first pages. The characters were fresh and likable while the plot had just enough twists to keep me entertained without overdoing it. The interaction between Devon and Lily was such fun, never have I rooted for two characters. Mischief, stolen moments, laughter and growth are all present. I loved watching Devon go from blackmailing Lily to realizing what his true feelings were. The story was well paced as it ebbed and flowed towards a nerve wracking conclusion that left me giddy. While the tale begins with a heated love scene overall it is pretty tame by historical romance standards and I found it well balanced and genuine.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for unbiased review that originally published @ Caffeinated Book Reviewer
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