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Private Arrangements #4
The Wayward Duke
HE IS THE ICE-COLD DUKE
Julian, the Duke of Hastings, is known for being aloof and utterly in control. For nine years, he's kept his distance from the only woman who ever cracked his icy exterior, burying himself in work as a top-secret government code-breaker. But when his latest assignment ensnares him in a lethal aristocratic plot, Julian has no choice but to enlist the help of his estranged wife.
SHE IS THE PRIM DUCHESS
To all of society, Caroline Hastings is the perfect duchess. For years she's masked her pain over her husband's abandonment behind a poised facade. But when Julian unexpectedly returns and sweeps them into a dangerous, covert mission, Caroline discovers her frozen duke isn't quite so indifferent in the bedroom after all.
Now, locked in a dangerous chase through London's glittering ballrooms and dark back alleys, Julian and Caroline must catch a killer-before he catches them first.
Julian, the Duke of Hastings, is known for being aloof and utterly in control. For nine years, he's kept his distance from the only woman who ever cracked his icy exterior, burying himself in work as a top-secret government code-breaker. But when his latest assignment ensnares him in a lethal aristocratic plot, Julian has no choice but to enlist the help of his estranged wife.
SHE IS THE PRIM DUCHESS
To all of society, Caroline Hastings is the perfect duchess. For years she's masked her pain over her husband's abandonment behind a poised facade. But when Julian unexpectedly returns and sweeps them into a dangerous, covert mission, Caroline discovers her frozen duke isn't quite so indifferent in the bedroom after all.
Now, locked in a dangerous chase through London's glittering ballrooms and dark back alleys, Julian and Caroline must catch a killer-before he catches them first.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 10, 2024
37 people are currently reading
247 people want to read
About the author
Katrina Kendrick
7 books162 followersKatrina Kendrick is the romance pen name for fantasy author Elizabeth May.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
November 11, 2024
3 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️
"We’re friends."
Friends. What a lie.
Friends did not look at each other the way they did. A friend did not ache to dominate her in every wicked way Julian’s imagination provided. Ever since that first sketch, something fundamental had shifted between them. The space where friendship once dwelled had cracked open, hunger seeping through. Her gaze had ignited him, scorching away platonic bonds until all that remained was need.
Not friends.
He did not want her friendship. Not her kindness or compassion. Those things lived in the light, and what he wanted from her belonged to the shadows. He craved the slide of her body against his, her gasps as he pushed inside her. Wanted her prima untouched canvas marred by his hands, his mouth. No restraint. No going back.
It felt there was a big chunk of the past missing between the couple in The Wayward Duke.
The angsty romance and groveling was what entertained me throughout the book (and the STEAMY SCENES)!! marriage of convenience/second chance combo tropes are my bread and butter and I was left starved for more.
I wasn't that interested in the mystery subplot and found myself skimming over them.
Content warning: explicit scenes, mention of deat* of an infant, violence, grief.
"We’re friends."
Friends. What a lie.
Friends did not look at each other the way they did. A friend did not ache to dominate her in every wicked way Julian’s imagination provided. Ever since that first sketch, something fundamental had shifted between them. The space where friendship once dwelled had cracked open, hunger seeping through. Her gaze had ignited him, scorching away platonic bonds until all that remained was need.
Not friends.
He did not want her friendship. Not her kindness or compassion. Those things lived in the light, and what he wanted from her belonged to the shadows. He craved the slide of her body against his, her gasps as he pushed inside her. Wanted her prima untouched canvas marred by his hands, his mouth. No restraint. No going back.
It felt there was a big chunk of the past missing between the couple in The Wayward Duke.
The angsty romance and groveling was what entertained me throughout the book (and the STEAMY SCENES)!! marriage of convenience/second chance combo tropes are my bread and butter and I was left starved for more.
I wasn't that interested in the mystery subplot and found myself skimming over them.
Content warning: explicit scenes, mention of deat* of an infant, violence, grief.
January 29, 2025
After years of separation, the Duke and Duchess of Hastings are back under one roof. Burying himself in work as a top-secret government code-breaker, Julian's latest assignment ensnares him in a lethal plot, leaving him no choice but to enlist the help of his estranged wife, Caroline.
This is the fourth book in the Private Arrangements series. It works well as a standalone, though book one’s hero makes a small appearance and there are brief mentions of other characters.
I was really excited to see that Kendrick was releasing a new book and this one did not disappoint! The book starts with a few time jumps between present and past, as the couple has been apart for about eight years. The story successfully reeled me in, and I wanted to know more about their history and what could have kept them apart so long. There's loads of spice with characters that are definitely making up for lost time, and the secondary storyline kept building with plenty of intrigue. I would recommend this to anyone who loved Anna Harrington's Lords of the Armory and Sarah MacLean's Bombshell.
Tropes: Second Chance/Marriage in Crisis, Compromised, Spy/Govt Work
Steam: 5
Trigger Warning: Loss
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
This is the fourth book in the Private Arrangements series. It works well as a standalone, though book one’s hero makes a small appearance and there are brief mentions of other characters.
I was really excited to see that Kendrick was releasing a new book and this one did not disappoint! The book starts with a few time jumps between present and past, as the couple has been apart for about eight years. The story successfully reeled me in, and I wanted to know more about their history and what could have kept them apart so long. There's loads of spice with characters that are definitely making up for lost time, and the secondary storyline kept building with plenty of intrigue. I would recommend this to anyone who loved Anna Harrington's Lords of the Armory and Sarah MacLean's Bombshell.
Tropes: Second Chance/Marriage in Crisis, Compromised, Spy/Govt Work
Steam: 5
Trigger Warning: Loss
* I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 2, 2024
The Wayward Duke by Katrina Kendrick is a historical romance that doesn’t shy away from the angst—if anything, it leans into it with raw, emotional depth. The longing, pain, and tragedy that envelop Julian and Caroline’s relationship is utterly heartbreaking. The dual timelines, one set before and one after their estrangement, are perfectly paced, revealing just enough of their troubled past at the right moments. This slow unraveling of their story kept me hooked and added to the emotional weight of their journey.
The tragedy at the heart of their romance turned out to be far more devastating than I initially expected. The emotions on the page were so vivid and palpable that I found myself moved in a way I haven’t been in a long time—tears were definitely shed. This book truly embodies the hurt/comfort trope, with Julian and Caroline’s tragic past, miscommunication, and assumptions keeping them apart. They married so young, and tragedy led to misunderstandings that seemed impossible to overcome. Yet, despite all the heartache, there’s a sense of healing and redemption that makes their eventual reunion all the more poignant.
By the time I reached the end of the book, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to either of these characters. Their journey felt so deeply personal and moving, and I was invested in their happiness right up to the last page.
As for the codebreaking subplot, while it didn’t grab me as much as the emotional core of the story, it did serve a crucial role in bringing the estranged couple back together. It was an interesting addition, even if it didn’t hold as much appeal for me personally.
Content Warning/Disclaimer: This novel deals with sensitive topics, including infertility, miscarriage, and infant loss. Please check the trigger warnings if these themes may be difficult for you to read about.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review!
The tragedy at the heart of their romance turned out to be far more devastating than I initially expected. The emotions on the page were so vivid and palpable that I found myself moved in a way I haven’t been in a long time—tears were definitely shed. This book truly embodies the hurt/comfort trope, with Julian and Caroline’s tragic past, miscommunication, and assumptions keeping them apart. They married so young, and tragedy led to misunderstandings that seemed impossible to overcome. Yet, despite all the heartache, there’s a sense of healing and redemption that makes their eventual reunion all the more poignant.
By the time I reached the end of the book, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to either of these characters. Their journey felt so deeply personal and moving, and I was invested in their happiness right up to the last page.
As for the codebreaking subplot, while it didn’t grab me as much as the emotional core of the story, it did serve a crucial role in bringing the estranged couple back together. It was an interesting addition, even if it didn’t hold as much appeal for me personally.
Content Warning/Disclaimer: This novel deals with sensitive topics, including infertility, miscarriage, and infant loss. Please check the trigger warnings if these themes may be difficult for you to read about.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review!
November 1, 2024
I haven't read all of the Private Arrangements series, but I've read enough to be familiar with the characters in this novel. I'd been curious about the estranged couple, but I was even more tempted by this book after the author's snippets on IG.
This wasn't your typical histrom. There were balls and royalty and all of that frivolousness. But the overarching story was one of intrigue and espionage...gunpower, treason, and plot, if you will. Which is fitting since Guy Fawkes Day is coming up. There are daring rescues, code-breaking, and foiled plots. But also the steaminess you expect from a Katrina Kendrick novel.
The one thing that nagged at me, though, was how easily this couple reconciled. Nine years of virtually no contact, and then bam, he's back under her roof and after a little frostiness, they're canoodling like they were never separated. And I don't feel like they hashed things out enough to get to that point. But, my husband does love to remind me that I like to argue for arguments' sake, so take my thoughts with a grain of salt. ;)
This wasn't your typical histrom. There were balls and royalty and all of that frivolousness. But the overarching story was one of intrigue and espionage...gunpower, treason, and plot, if you will. Which is fitting since Guy Fawkes Day is coming up. There are daring rescues, code-breaking, and foiled plots. But also the steaminess you expect from a Katrina Kendrick novel.
The one thing that nagged at me, though, was how easily this couple reconciled. Nine years of virtually no contact, and then bam, he's back under her roof and after a little frostiness, they're canoodling like they were never separated. And I don't feel like they hashed things out enough to get to that point. But, my husband does love to remind me that I like to argue for arguments' sake, so take my thoughts with a grain of salt. ;)
October 26, 2024
Somewhat of an angsty romance with a relationship built on unspoken words and clinical sex scenes. The hero’s self-pity and the heroine’s wallowing overshadow the romance most of the time. The epilogue barely delivered, but I still had some fun.
February 22, 2025
A solid second chance romance again. Not as angsty as I thought it would be but super action packed and adventurous. The ending always feel a tad rushed.
December 31, 2024
4⭐️
God I love a good sickbed scene, and this book had MULTIPLE. So so good.
Here we finally see the Duke and Duchess of Hastings reconcile their marriage. Caroline and Julian have been estranged for eight years, almost the entire length of their marriage. I thought the flashbacks here to their childhood friendship were well done, really showing how their feelings for each other began
The angst and longing between these two combined with the GREAT chemistry and I was sucked into this immediately. The depth of love they had for each other, even after eight years of next-to-no communication was so obvious. I also thought the big reveal as to why they were estranged was handled well. It was realistic and painful, and didn't stem from some sort of silly miscommunication.
I do have to say, we didn't get a whole lot of outside explanation. Like why were Julian and Caroline childhood friends, as well as with Grace? Caroline was from a titled but disgraced family, and Julian was a young duke. Was his family alive? Did hers live nearby? Did either of them have siblings?
Also no explanation as to how Julian began working for the Home Office, or became so efficient in code breaking. We didn't hear any talk of it in the flashbacks, but eight years later and he's a certified expert? And so is Caroline?! Did they have tutors? Was this just a random hobby they both studied on their own? No idea
God I love a good sickbed scene, and this book had MULTIPLE. So so good.
Here we finally see the Duke and Duchess of Hastings reconcile their marriage. Caroline and Julian have been estranged for eight years, almost the entire length of their marriage. I thought the flashbacks here to their childhood friendship were well done, really showing how their feelings for each other began
The angst and longing between these two combined with the GREAT chemistry and I was sucked into this immediately. The depth of love they had for each other, even after eight years of next-to-no communication was so obvious. I also thought the big reveal as to why they were estranged was handled well. It was realistic and painful, and didn't stem from some sort of silly miscommunication.
I do have to say, we didn't get a whole lot of outside explanation. Like why were Julian and Caroline childhood friends, as well as with Grace? Caroline was from a titled but disgraced family, and Julian was a young duke. Was his family alive? Did hers live nearby? Did either of them have siblings?
Also no explanation as to how Julian began working for the Home Office, or became so efficient in code breaking. We didn't hear any talk of it in the flashbacks, but eight years later and he's a certified expert? And so is Caroline?! Did they have tutors? Was this just a random hobby they both studied on their own? No idea
September 2, 2024
Perfection!!!
I’ve been waiting impatiently for Caroline and Julian’s story since we met them in His Scandalous Lessons. And this was absolutely everything I wanted and more. I’m completely gone for this couple!
This has a somewhat similar setup to Sherry Thomas’s A Private Arrangement, with husband and wife separated shortly after the wedding and estranged for years. While I hated the Thomas book (sorry not sorry—everyone in it is awful), the separation and reasons here are absolutely heartbreaking. But there’s so much angst and love and secret pining and I ate every bit of it up. PLUS we get some codebreaking and spying that really ups the stakes. Both Julian and Caroline are brilliant, and I love how he relies on her and gives her credit.
Katrina Kendrick can write some spicy books, and this might be her spiciest yet. I love that despite the years of heartbreak, these two are still feral for each other.
There’s a lot packed in here, so it’s a fast paced, high stakes historical romance that leans heavy on the drama. But I read it in almost one sitting and loved every single second. HIGHLY recommend!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the preview
I’ve been waiting impatiently for Caroline and Julian’s story since we met them in His Scandalous Lessons. And this was absolutely everything I wanted and more. I’m completely gone for this couple!
This has a somewhat similar setup to Sherry Thomas’s A Private Arrangement, with husband and wife separated shortly after the wedding and estranged for years. While I hated the Thomas book (sorry not sorry—everyone in it is awful), the separation and reasons here are absolutely heartbreaking. But there’s so much angst and love and secret pining and I ate every bit of it up. PLUS we get some codebreaking and spying that really ups the stakes. Both Julian and Caroline are brilliant, and I love how he relies on her and gives her credit.
Katrina Kendrick can write some spicy books, and this might be her spiciest yet. I love that despite the years of heartbreak, these two are still feral for each other.
There’s a lot packed in here, so it’s a fast paced, high stakes historical romance that leans heavy on the drama. But I read it in almost one sitting and loved every single second. HIGHLY recommend!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the preview
October 29, 2024
4.5 rounded up
November 22, 2024
I ATE this book. Since the last book in the series i read, I was fascinated with this author.
I was so excited to read this one, it completely met my expectations.
The angst was delicious and followed by the first class spice 🥵 I liked it a lot
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC
I was so excited to read this one, it completely met my expectations.
The angst was delicious and followed by the first class spice 🥵 I liked it a lot
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC
October 14, 2024
loved it!
I love all of Katrina Kendrick’s books. Just a lot of romantic fun! Waited a while for this one and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
I love all of Katrina Kendrick’s books. Just a lot of romantic fun! Waited a while for this one and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
January 24, 2025
Eight years ago, tragedy and grief tore the newlyweds, Julian and Caroline, the Duke and Duchess of Hastings apart and has kept them apart for all these years. Caroline was almost crushed by the loss she suffered and that led to the rift with Julian, but eventually she found her way alone, she has good friends and a successful career as a painter, but she never stopped loving Julian or wondering “what if”. So, when Julian shows up at her residence and informs her that he will be residing with her until he leaves for Italy in a month. She is both annoyed and thrilled at the prospect. She agrees but has conditions; they must present a united front to society, and they will have to share a room. He agrees and slowly they begin to heal the rift that has kept them apart, they even work together on a mission for the Home Office. It is clear that their love never died, but they have hurt each other, and it will take time for them to completely heal. Time they may not have if a madman bent on destroying the Duke of Hastings is successful.
Julian never stopped loving Caroline, but when she sent him away all those years ago, he left and vowed not to return until she asked him to. It is a vow he has kept for eight long years, but when circumstances arise that leave him temporarily homeless, he decides to take his chances with his duchess. As they begin to heal their marriage, he is contacted by an agent of the Home Office with a request for his skill at cryptography and he enlists Caroline to help him decode the message. They figure out that a terrorist is planning attacks on the aristocracy, and Julian even has a suspect in mind, and with Caroline’s help, he is sure they will find him. Their relationship seems to be back on track, but when the terrorist attacks escalate and they are caught in the aftermath, it is clear that their enemy is out for blood and Julian will stop have to stop him before he ends any chance for a true HEA with Caroline.
I have been waiting for Caroline and Julian’s story for a very long time, and I am happy to say that it was well worth the wait! This story is a classic second-chance romance with a bit of angst, loss, grief, intrigue, action, wonderful characters, forgiveness, healing, very steamy love scenes, a true soulmate type love and finally a lovely HEA including an epilogue. I think this was the best installment of the series and definitely a book I would read again. As much as I loved this story, I was disappointed that Caroline never actually said “I love you” to Julian – instead she gives him a Hans Solo “I know” response to his declaration. I would absolutely recommend this is a lovely story of healing, forgiveness and a second chance at love to all romance readers, especially those who enjoy a bit of intrigue and lots of steam in their romances. This is the fourth book in the series, and could be read as a standalone title, but I would recommend reading the series in order for the best reader experience.
4.5 stars
NOTE: This story contains elements that might be upsetting for some readers, I would suggest checking the Content & Trigger Warnings before starting this book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
Julian never stopped loving Caroline, but when she sent him away all those years ago, he left and vowed not to return until she asked him to. It is a vow he has kept for eight long years, but when circumstances arise that leave him temporarily homeless, he decides to take his chances with his duchess. As they begin to heal their marriage, he is contacted by an agent of the Home Office with a request for his skill at cryptography and he enlists Caroline to help him decode the message. They figure out that a terrorist is planning attacks on the aristocracy, and Julian even has a suspect in mind, and with Caroline’s help, he is sure they will find him. Their relationship seems to be back on track, but when the terrorist attacks escalate and they are caught in the aftermath, it is clear that their enemy is out for blood and Julian will stop have to stop him before he ends any chance for a true HEA with Caroline.
I have been waiting for Caroline and Julian’s story for a very long time, and I am happy to say that it was well worth the wait! This story is a classic second-chance romance with a bit of angst, loss, grief, intrigue, action, wonderful characters, forgiveness, healing, very steamy love scenes, a true soulmate type love and finally a lovely HEA including an epilogue. I think this was the best installment of the series and definitely a book I would read again. As much as I loved this story, I was disappointed that Caroline never actually said “I love you” to Julian – instead she gives him a Hans Solo “I know” response to his declaration. I would absolutely recommend this is a lovely story of healing, forgiveness and a second chance at love to all romance readers, especially those who enjoy a bit of intrigue and lots of steam in their romances. This is the fourth book in the series, and could be read as a standalone title, but I would recommend reading the series in order for the best reader experience.
4.5 stars
NOTE: This story contains elements that might be upsetting for some readers, I would suggest checking the Content & Trigger Warnings before starting this book.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *
February 21, 2025
A new favorite author for me! I couldn't put it down. Wow!
In this adventure we find Caroline Hastings. After her husband left her so fast after the wedding she has hidden sadness and the pain by running things at home. Nine years have gone by and suddenly he has returned. Julian, the Duke of Hastings has stayed away for years. After a surprising disappointment he left to bury himself in his work for the government. He has worked as a top-secret code-breaker. Now trouble and danger is close to home, too close. And now he needs his wife's help to catch a killer. Will the danger bring them closer together?
I love the way Kendrick writes. There is never a dull moment. She creates an amazing story that you become so involved in you forget you aren't actually part of the story. Her characters are so dynamic. And the story is packed with intrigue, danger, action, chemistry along with amazing romance and passion. I love the wit and those wonderful conversations that add to the story. With such depth to the story you don't want it to ever end. I can't wait to read more by her. Enjoy this adventure. Wow I sure did!
In this adventure we find Caroline Hastings. After her husband left her so fast after the wedding she has hidden sadness and the pain by running things at home. Nine years have gone by and suddenly he has returned. Julian, the Duke of Hastings has stayed away for years. After a surprising disappointment he left to bury himself in his work for the government. He has worked as a top-secret code-breaker. Now trouble and danger is close to home, too close. And now he needs his wife's help to catch a killer. Will the danger bring them closer together?
I love the way Kendrick writes. There is never a dull moment. She creates an amazing story that you become so involved in you forget you aren't actually part of the story. Her characters are so dynamic. And the story is packed with intrigue, danger, action, chemistry along with amazing romance and passion. I love the wit and those wonderful conversations that add to the story. With such depth to the story you don't want it to ever end. I can't wait to read more by her. Enjoy this adventure. Wow I sure did!
October 11, 2024
Thank you Bloomsbury USA/NetGalley for the chance to read this ARC!
This is hands-down my favorite installment of the 'Private Arrangements' series. I'd been looking forward to Caroline's book forever and OH BOY it didn't disappoint. I LOVE her & Julian; great characters & both delish.
Honestly I could've done without the secondary mystery plot, as I felt like it detracted from the romance a bit. I also wish there was a bit more time spent on Julian & Caroline talking about the events that drove them apart 8 years ago; they seemed to heal and move on VERY quickly.
Regardless, I still super enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more Katrina Kendrick!
This is hands-down my favorite installment of the 'Private Arrangements' series. I'd been looking forward to Caroline's book forever and OH BOY it didn't disappoint. I LOVE her & Julian; great characters & both delish.
Honestly I could've done without the secondary mystery plot, as I felt like it detracted from the romance a bit. I also wish there was a bit more time spent on Julian & Caroline talking about the events that drove them apart 8 years ago; they seemed to heal and move on VERY quickly.
Regardless, I still super enjoyed this book and can't wait to read more Katrina Kendrick!
February 19, 2025
3,5 stars
Had a high expectation for this book since the Duke and Duchess of Hastings were mentioned in first book of this series. This is angsty, there are mysteries and even bomb (!!) which are great, but the relationship development lack depth.
I'm glad to find new author, I definitely will expect more historical romance from her.
Had a high expectation for this book since the Duke and Duchess of Hastings were mentioned in first book of this series. This is angsty, there are mysteries and even bomb (!!) which are great, but the relationship development lack depth.
I'm glad to find new author, I definitely will expect more historical romance from her.
October 14, 2024
Spicy and spectacular times in the Ton.
May 21, 2025
My first by her and I enjoyed it quite a bit. Will probably try some others.
March 18, 2025
v cute
but also i feel like i hyped them up too much in my brain so it kinda sorta lived to the hype but also not... but i enjoyed
but also i feel like i hyped them up too much in my brain so it kinda sorta lived to the hype but also not... but i enjoyed
February 9, 2025
I really loved this one. I loved the few past scenes how we saw Julian the Duke and Caroline facing a scandal because of her father how they came to be. They started out as friends and there was a third friend Grace but it had a bit of tangled hearts. The 8 year separation between Julian and Caroline on the reason was so tragic on just how it all just spiraled. I loved the spy aspect on Julian and Caroline being elite decoders to try to unveil where the next doomed event is to take place. I just loved the Julian and Carolines scenes. So much tension and angst. I look forward to more of Katrina's work! I can't wait.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 21, 2024
I can still say Katrina Kendrick is a new author for me because this is only her 5th book. The prequel and Book 1 of this series came out in 2018 and book 2 in Sept. 2020 which is when I found her and read all 3 of her books at that time. I had made notes on her that I loved her writing, totally loved this series and her stories were great and sex was good too! Then after that, she had written anything for a while so I thought, she wasn’t writing anymore and then I stumbled across Book 3 in 2022. It was so damn good but then she seemed to disappear again. So happy to see another from this series coming out.
After I read book 2, I said in my notes that this was my favorite so far. I said it again after book 3 and now again after this book. WOW, she gets such depth in her stories and characters. I totally loved Julian and Caroline and their love story. I loved the suspense and intrigue and the sex was super hot. I love when the MC is written where you can just picture this super hot guy. Great read and definitely adding to my favorite reads for Oct. I definitely recommend and this whole Private Arrangement series. SO GOOD!
After I read book 2, I said in my notes that this was my favorite so far. I said it again after book 3 and now again after this book. WOW, she gets such depth in her stories and characters. I totally loved Julian and Caroline and their love story. I loved the suspense and intrigue and the sex was super hot. I love when the MC is written where you can just picture this super hot guy. Great read and definitely adding to my favorite reads for Oct. I definitely recommend and this whole Private Arrangement series. SO GOOD!
February 8, 2025
I so wanted to stop reading this book… yet I kept hoping it would get better. I forced myself through the second half, and by the 70% mark, I was literally dragging myself to finish.
For a story with so much potential—espionage, a second-chance romance, betrayal, and redemption—it fell completely flat. The biggest issue? A total lack of emotional depth. Caroline and Julian had all the ingredients for a compelling love story, yet they never felt real.
For example, Caroline suffers a miscarriage, is reunited with her long-absent husband, gets shot, kidnapped, and nearly drowns—and yet, there’s barely any internal dialogue or emotion from her. She just… exists. Julian, on the other hand, has some moments of emotional depth (his rage in Chapter 31 was a highlight), but even that wasn’t enough to salvage the book.
Then there are the romance and steamy scenes. The Wayward Duke proves that the number of sex scenes doesn’t automatically make a book steamy. The scenes here felt clinical, rushed, and completely lacking in tension or passion. Julian talks a big game, but the actual execution? Forgettable.
And let’s talk about plot holes—like the Edinburgh fire, which supposedly happened less than eight years ago but is barely mentioned. Or how Caroline suddenly brings up wanting children after multiple intimate scenes, even though the topic (and her past miscarriage) was completely ignored until that moment.
Honestly, this felt like a first draft—a skeleton of a great story that needed way more development, emotional depth, and character exploration. The espionage subplot had some promise, but it wasn’t enough to carry the book.
In the end, while I wish I could get my money back, I really wish I could get my time back. Caroline and Julian could have been a fantastic couple, but the lack of emotion, rushed writing, and missed opportunities made The Wayward Duke one of the weakest historical romances I’ve read.
For a story with so much potential—espionage, a second-chance romance, betrayal, and redemption—it fell completely flat. The biggest issue? A total lack of emotional depth. Caroline and Julian had all the ingredients for a compelling love story, yet they never felt real.
For example, Caroline suffers a miscarriage, is reunited with her long-absent husband, gets shot, kidnapped, and nearly drowns—and yet, there’s barely any internal dialogue or emotion from her. She just… exists. Julian, on the other hand, has some moments of emotional depth (his rage in Chapter 31 was a highlight), but even that wasn’t enough to salvage the book.
Then there are the romance and steamy scenes. The Wayward Duke proves that the number of sex scenes doesn’t automatically make a book steamy. The scenes here felt clinical, rushed, and completely lacking in tension or passion. Julian talks a big game, but the actual execution? Forgettable.
And let’s talk about plot holes—like the Edinburgh fire, which supposedly happened less than eight years ago but is barely mentioned. Or how Caroline suddenly brings up wanting children after multiple intimate scenes, even though the topic (and her past miscarriage) was completely ignored until that moment.
Honestly, this felt like a first draft—a skeleton of a great story that needed way more development, emotional depth, and character exploration. The espionage subplot had some promise, but it wasn’t enough to carry the book.
In the end, while I wish I could get my money back, I really wish I could get my time back. Caroline and Julian could have been a fantastic couple, but the lack of emotion, rushed writing, and missed opportunities made The Wayward Duke one of the weakest historical romances I’ve read.
November 19, 2024
Steamy, tense, twisty and engaging, The Wayward Duke is a gripping amalgamation of romance, sex, danger, angst and intrigue.
London, Julian, Duke of Hastings, and his wife, Caroline, have been estranged for eight years when he surprisingly returns, sparking a flame of desire in them that they thought long-dead. Society is ablaze with talk of their reunion, but can they overcome the hurt they’ve caused each other to really reunite? Meanwhile, Julian’s work for the home office embroils them in a dangerous hunt for a terrorist. Can they learn to work together to catch them before he kills them first?
Though this book is the fifth in the series, it was actually my introduction to both the series and author. Despite this, I never felt confused about what was happening and think this was easy to read as a standalone. I was very much in the mood to read a romance when I started this book, but I was unprepared for the turns it would take and was surprised by how steamy it was from the start. The sexual tension is evident and I was relieved not to be reading this in public. But this is more than just a spicy book. Katrina Kendrick expertly moved between the shifts in tone of this book, making me blush with the sex scenes, almost cry with the emotional ones, and keeping me on the edge of my seat as they are caught up in espionage. We don’t initially know why they have been estranged, but their heartbreak and grief is palpable, and you can feel their fear of again trusting the person who broke them to pieces from the inside. As we learned more about the reasons their relationship broke down, Kendrick’s writing flourished, expertly conveying their loss, devastation, and Caroline’s mental health struggles in a real and relatable way.
I liked that this couple weren’t your average Duke and Duchess and that there was more to them than meets the eye. Caroline is a linguist and Julian a code-breaker, the latter working with the home office to secretly decipher codes and hunt terrorists. I loved this aspect of the book. The danger escalated, adding an extra layer of tension to the story that had me on the edge of my seat. I have to admit that although I enjoyed both characters, I did favour Caroline a little. I felt like I really understood her and loved that she was someone who didn’t need a man to rescue her. And very different from what you’d expect of a woman in her position in society at that time.
So if you're looking for a historical romance that will make your heart race, your cheeks blush, and keep you guessing, then this steamy and suspenseful book is the one for you.
London, Julian, Duke of Hastings, and his wife, Caroline, have been estranged for eight years when he surprisingly returns, sparking a flame of desire in them that they thought long-dead. Society is ablaze with talk of their reunion, but can they overcome the hurt they’ve caused each other to really reunite? Meanwhile, Julian’s work for the home office embroils them in a dangerous hunt for a terrorist. Can they learn to work together to catch them before he kills them first?
Though this book is the fifth in the series, it was actually my introduction to both the series and author. Despite this, I never felt confused about what was happening and think this was easy to read as a standalone. I was very much in the mood to read a romance when I started this book, but I was unprepared for the turns it would take and was surprised by how steamy it was from the start. The sexual tension is evident and I was relieved not to be reading this in public. But this is more than just a spicy book. Katrina Kendrick expertly moved between the shifts in tone of this book, making me blush with the sex scenes, almost cry with the emotional ones, and keeping me on the edge of my seat as they are caught up in espionage. We don’t initially know why they have been estranged, but their heartbreak and grief is palpable, and you can feel their fear of again trusting the person who broke them to pieces from the inside. As we learned more about the reasons their relationship broke down, Kendrick’s writing flourished, expertly conveying their loss, devastation, and Caroline’s mental health struggles in a real and relatable way.
I liked that this couple weren’t your average Duke and Duchess and that there was more to them than meets the eye. Caroline is a linguist and Julian a code-breaker, the latter working with the home office to secretly decipher codes and hunt terrorists. I loved this aspect of the book. The danger escalated, adding an extra layer of tension to the story that had me on the edge of my seat. I have to admit that although I enjoyed both characters, I did favour Caroline a little. I felt like I really understood her and loved that she was someone who didn’t need a man to rescue her. And very different from what you’d expect of a woman in her position in society at that time.
So if you're looking for a historical romance that will make your heart race, your cheeks blush, and keep you guessing, then this steamy and suspenseful book is the one for you.
January 25, 2025
Barbara’s rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Series: Private Arrangements #4
Publication Date: 10/10/24 or 1/28/25 (depending on where you find the data)
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages: 256
A week ago, if you had asked me if I planned to continue reading Historical Romance, I would have replied that I probably would not. That is entirely a personal thing, but I have grown tired of Historical Romance that is little more than contemporary stories in period dress. Then, I came across this book by a new-to-me author and found a story that is everything I could have wanted in a Historical Romance. There was steam, love/romance/HEA, just a tad of angst, wonderful characters, and a lovely Epilogue. Though I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, I was perfectly comfortable reading this book and didn’t feel I lacked the information I needed to enjoy the story. I am delighted to find a new-to-me author that will keep me reading Historical Romance!
I was ensnared by this story and these characters from the first words and that continued through to the last words. Caroline and Julian, the Duchess and Duke of Hastings were separated by tragedy and grief early in their marriage. They had lived separate lives for eight years – until Julian arrived at their townhome and informed Caroline (Linny) he would be living there for the next month – until he left for Italy. At first, Caroline was exasperated – then she had some stipulations of her own and the story was off and running!
Julian had occupied portions of those 8 years occasionally breaking coded messages for his government. Those came easily to him as he used to write very risqué coded messages to Linny during their early days and he loved delivering them to her during balls just so he could see her reaction when she uncoded them. Now, she is helping him solve coded messages from a brutal murderer who takes delight in taunting them with his messages and then inflicting mass casualties if they aren’t solved in time to stop them. As they work together to solve the codes and expose the murderer, they become targets themselves.
The chase is exhilarating and the romance is sigh-worthy while the Epilogue is everything you could want it to be. Yes, there is a tad of angst in the book and I am no fan of angst that goes on and on, but that isn’t what we have in this book. The angst is more about remembering and dealing with those stressors that drove them apart years ago.
I recommend this book and am glad to have found and read this new-to-me author.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Private Arrangements #4
Publication Date: 10/10/24 or 1/28/25 (depending on where you find the data)
Period: Regency London
Number of Pages: 256
A week ago, if you had asked me if I planned to continue reading Historical Romance, I would have replied that I probably would not. That is entirely a personal thing, but I have grown tired of Historical Romance that is little more than contemporary stories in period dress. Then, I came across this book by a new-to-me author and found a story that is everything I could have wanted in a Historical Romance. There was steam, love/romance/HEA, just a tad of angst, wonderful characters, and a lovely Epilogue. Though I haven’t read the earlier books in the series, I was perfectly comfortable reading this book and didn’t feel I lacked the information I needed to enjoy the story. I am delighted to find a new-to-me author that will keep me reading Historical Romance!
I was ensnared by this story and these characters from the first words and that continued through to the last words. Caroline and Julian, the Duchess and Duke of Hastings were separated by tragedy and grief early in their marriage. They had lived separate lives for eight years – until Julian arrived at their townhome and informed Caroline (Linny) he would be living there for the next month – until he left for Italy. At first, Caroline was exasperated – then she had some stipulations of her own and the story was off and running!
Julian had occupied portions of those 8 years occasionally breaking coded messages for his government. Those came easily to him as he used to write very risqué coded messages to Linny during their early days and he loved delivering them to her during balls just so he could see her reaction when she uncoded them. Now, she is helping him solve coded messages from a brutal murderer who takes delight in taunting them with his messages and then inflicting mass casualties if they aren’t solved in time to stop them. As they work together to solve the codes and expose the murderer, they become targets themselves.
The chase is exhilarating and the romance is sigh-worthy while the Epilogue is everything you could want it to be. Yes, there is a tad of angst in the book and I am no fan of angst that goes on and on, but that isn’t what we have in this book. The angst is more about remembering and dealing with those stressors that drove them apart years ago.
I recommend this book and am glad to have found and read this new-to-me author.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 27, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this ebook and this is my freely given opinion.
This is book 4 of the Private Arrangements series and while there is some appearances of previous characters and references to some incidences that have occurred in the previous books, I felt this could be read as a standalone story.
This is a second chance at love story about the married Duke of Hastings and his duchess, who have been estranged for years. As a warning, the storyline involves the emotional trauma of a lost child, so if this is a sensitive trigger, be aware of it.
Julian and Caroline have been friends for many years, along with their friend Grace. This story goes back and forth in time, and outlines their friendship, and their marriage, and a background of miscommunication and misunderstanding that hid a passionate love, and the horrible series of events that lead to the downfall of their marriage.
Because no matter how long, Caroline and Julian loved each other, and still do, but do not know how to overcome their past misunderstandings and presumptions, or are too afraid to speak to each other and expose their deepest vulnerabilities and hurts to each other, to fix what went wrong.
A very emotional story that tore at my heart. I liked how the author gave both perspectives of the MCs, because what they present to each other and to the world are very cool, calculated facades that hide a lot of hurt, and passion. Add on to the second chance at love and the renewal of a passionate affair is the added story line of two intelligent and creative people who appreciate each other's talents as well, as there is also a code-breaking spy storyline mixed into their love story, which is partly what brings them back together again after so many years.
The previous books in the series hinted as to their estrangement and this book gives the answers to many questions that were brought up, and gives an emotionally satisfying HEA to their storyline.
But I felt that their misunderstanding over Grace and her place in their friendship/relationship was not quite satisfactorily resolved between the two of them, as Caroline thought for many years that Julian loved and wanted to marry Grace, and she was a second choice that he was forced to take.
4.75 stars out of 5
This is book 4 of the Private Arrangements series and while there is some appearances of previous characters and references to some incidences that have occurred in the previous books, I felt this could be read as a standalone story.
This is a second chance at love story about the married Duke of Hastings and his duchess, who have been estranged for years. As a warning, the storyline involves the emotional trauma of a lost child, so if this is a sensitive trigger, be aware of it.
Julian and Caroline have been friends for many years, along with their friend Grace. This story goes back and forth in time, and outlines their friendship, and their marriage, and a background of miscommunication and misunderstanding that hid a passionate love, and the horrible series of events that lead to the downfall of their marriage.
Because no matter how long, Caroline and Julian loved each other, and still do, but do not know how to overcome their past misunderstandings and presumptions, or are too afraid to speak to each other and expose their deepest vulnerabilities and hurts to each other, to fix what went wrong.
A very emotional story that tore at my heart. I liked how the author gave both perspectives of the MCs, because what they present to each other and to the world are very cool, calculated facades that hide a lot of hurt, and passion. Add on to the second chance at love and the renewal of a passionate affair is the added story line of two intelligent and creative people who appreciate each other's talents as well, as there is also a code-breaking spy storyline mixed into their love story, which is partly what brings them back together again after so many years.
The previous books in the series hinted as to their estrangement and this book gives the answers to many questions that were brought up, and gives an emotionally satisfying HEA to their storyline.
But I felt that their misunderstanding over Grace and her place in their friendship/relationship was not quite satisfactorily resolved between the two of them, as Caroline thought for many years that Julian loved and wanted to marry Grace, and she was a second choice that he was forced to take.
4.75 stars out of 5
December 30, 2024
I requested this book from NetGalley knowing nothing of Katrina Kendrick's work (neither the previous books in this series nor the fantasy books she has written as Elizabeth May) but drawn in by the beautiful cover and an adventurous marriage-in-trouble plotline. I can be kind of picky when it comes to sentence structure, word use, etc, and lately it seems like everything I read that isn't from an author I already love really misses the mark. But Kendrick's writing? NOT SO!
The highlight of this book for me was definitely Kendrick's way with words. She writes excellent dialogue, witty and sexy, and I enjoyed the banter between Caroline and Julian. I especially enjoyed the scenes of them codebreaking together, and Julian's dirty letters written in code.
There were a couple things that didn't quite do it for me, though. The sex scenes were incredibly hot, and Kendrick does a great job of showing us how these characters still care for each other in intimate, non-sexual moments t00. But I'm a glutton for paragraphs of internal angst, and I wanted some more raw emotion. I liked the scenes with Gracie, but I wanted to know more about Julian's past with her through his eyes. Why did he feel so compelled to spend months tracking down her family in America instead of staying to help Caroline (with whom he was clearly besotted) work through her grief? And was he not writing letters back to her? I wanted Caroline to ask those questions! Gracie seemed very flat to me, and a more fleshed-out character would have helped me better understand the rift between Caroline and Julian. I also thought the plot structure was a little haywire, and I wish that the action in the terrorism plot had better mirrored the action in the romantic plot. And perhaps the emotional stakes just weren't high enough in the romantic plot. Kendrick is clearly talented, which is why I kept pushing even when I was trying to think of ways the plot could have been better structured.
Overall--really glad I read this book! I'm going to check out some of Kendrick's other work, and I'll be watching her in the future. She has a unique voice and boatloads of writing talent and creativity. I think she's only going to get better,
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
The highlight of this book for me was definitely Kendrick's way with words. She writes excellent dialogue, witty and sexy, and I enjoyed the banter between Caroline and Julian. I especially enjoyed the scenes of them codebreaking together, and Julian's dirty letters written in code.
There were a couple things that didn't quite do it for me, though. The sex scenes were incredibly hot, and Kendrick does a great job of showing us how these characters still care for each other in intimate, non-sexual moments t00. But I'm a glutton for paragraphs of internal angst, and I wanted some more raw emotion. I liked the scenes with Gracie, but I wanted to know more about Julian's past with her through his eyes. Why did he feel so compelled to spend months tracking down her family in America instead of staying to help Caroline (with whom he was clearly besotted) work through her grief? And was he not writing letters back to her? I wanted Caroline to ask those questions! Gracie seemed very flat to me, and a more fleshed-out character would have helped me better understand the rift between Caroline and Julian. I also thought the plot structure was a little haywire, and I wish that the action in the terrorism plot had better mirrored the action in the romantic plot. And perhaps the emotional stakes just weren't high enough in the romantic plot. Kendrick is clearly talented, which is why I kept pushing even when I was trying to think of ways the plot could have been better structured.
Overall--really glad I read this book! I'm going to check out some of Kendrick's other work, and I'll be watching her in the future. She has a unique voice and boatloads of writing talent and creativity. I think she's only going to get better,
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
January 20, 2025
This was an emotional story between childhood friends to lovers who are married and been living estranged for almost the entirety of their marriage.
It’s a dual timeline for the first third of the book before switching back to the present for the remainder of the story. Detailing their life prior to marriage and the events leading up to their estrangement help paint the picture of what has caused their marriage to be on the rocks. It also helps setup things they enjoy doing together that plays a role in their reconciliation and the secondary plot.
Because of Julian spending his time away from London occasionally deciphering coded messages, he gets roped in helping the Home Office. But it’s Caroline who is actually the better decoder as she’s the one who’s able to figure them out.
I enjoyed having a FMC that’s incredibly smart and skilled. While she’s in the background more than her husband, she knows how to use the position of power she does have and is supported with a spouse that is proud of those attributes and makes her be included.
The romance and the spy work was well balanced. Slowly working on healing their past hurts, saying what had long been left unsaid all mixed in with solving the messages and working together while not always knowing where they stand.
There are five encounters plus other scenes that are shorter and less descriptive that I didn’t count. They both have a lot of pent up passion and emotions that leads to explosive scenes. Caroline is a painter so there’s a few nude painting scenes, along with some wonderful dirty talk and “good girl”. I enjoyed the possessive hero and a few mentions of “my wife” as well.
The Wayward Duke is the fourth book in the Private Arrangements series. It can be read as a standalone. There’s one part that references the MC in a previous book but still having not read that one, it didn’t detract from the story.
Content waning contains spoilers.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
CW: references to FMC pregnancy loss (off page) and part of what caused their estrangement.
It’s a dual timeline for the first third of the book before switching back to the present for the remainder of the story. Detailing their life prior to marriage and the events leading up to their estrangement help paint the picture of what has caused their marriage to be on the rocks. It also helps setup things they enjoy doing together that plays a role in their reconciliation and the secondary plot.
Because of Julian spending his time away from London occasionally deciphering coded messages, he gets roped in helping the Home Office. But it’s Caroline who is actually the better decoder as she’s the one who’s able to figure them out.
I enjoyed having a FMC that’s incredibly smart and skilled. While she’s in the background more than her husband, she knows how to use the position of power she does have and is supported with a spouse that is proud of those attributes and makes her be included.
The romance and the spy work was well balanced. Slowly working on healing their past hurts, saying what had long been left unsaid all mixed in with solving the messages and working together while not always knowing where they stand.
There are five encounters plus other scenes that are shorter and less descriptive that I didn’t count. They both have a lot of pent up passion and emotions that leads to explosive scenes. Caroline is a painter so there’s a few nude painting scenes, along with some wonderful dirty talk and “good girl”. I enjoyed the possessive hero and a few mentions of “my wife” as well.
The Wayward Duke is the fourth book in the Private Arrangements series. It can be read as a standalone. There’s one part that references the MC in a previous book but still having not read that one, it didn’t detract from the story.
Content waning contains spoilers.
I received an advance reader copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
CW: references to FMC pregnancy loss (off page) and part of what caused their estrangement.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2025
Star Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
Note: I've only read this book in the series
A marriage broken by miscommunications but fixed by forced proximity and still burning passions
Caroline and Julian are friends wed somewhat young given the situation that Caroline was in. Then in a series of events, the pair get separated and forced apart by grief and miscommunication. They come back together because Julian needed a place to stay temporarily before leaving again. In this time, there is also some intrigue because Julian also is a cryptographer and there is a serial killer/bomber targeting the nobles.
I really liked this book. It did keep my attention when I picked it up but it would take some time for me to pick it up again. The characters and plot were memorable that I didn't have to go back to re-read chapters just to remember where I was at, so that's a HUGE plus.
I really felt the angst for Caroline because really broke my heart for her. One of my favorite part of this books is when the spymaster
The passion between the two main leads I'd probably give 4/5. It's what I expect from a pair rekindling their marriage after years apart. A lot of the first half of the book is them trying to communicate (thank gawd) and live together again in so long.
Note: I've only read this book in the series
A marriage broken by miscommunications but fixed by forced proximity and still burning passions
Caroline and Julian are friends wed somewhat young given the situation that Caroline was in. Then in a series of events, the pair get separated and forced apart by grief and miscommunication. They come back together because Julian needed a place to stay temporarily before leaving again. In this time, there is also some intrigue because Julian also is a cryptographer and there is a serial killer/bomber targeting the nobles.
I really liked this book. It did keep my attention when I picked it up but it would take some time for me to pick it up again. The characters and plot were memorable that I didn't have to go back to re-read chapters just to remember where I was at, so that's a HUGE plus.
I really felt the angst for Caroline because really broke my heart for her. One of my favorite part of this books is when the spymaster
The passion between the two main leads I'd probably give 4/5. It's what I expect from a pair rekindling their marriage after years apart. A lot of the first half of the book is them trying to communicate (thank gawd) and live together again in so long.
December 5, 2024
I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'm addicted to the character chemistry that Katrina Kendrick writes.
The Wayward Duke is a marriage in crisis (one of my favorite histrom tropes these days). Julian and Caroline married young, and early in their marriage multiple tragedies hit that they were unable to reconcile and grieve together. 8 years apart ends the day Julian walks back into the house they used to share, and as different people they see the love buried beneath the grief. Amidst reconciliation, more disaster strikes: someone is planting explosives and targeting political figures, including the Duke of Hastings.
While I love the chemistry and the heat in this series, Kendrick never shies away from packing a book with plot. Her skills as a fantasy writer are on display as the stakes climb ever higher with the risks Julian and Caroline face. This has all the angst of a marriage-in-crisis/second chance early on in the book, but the second half the conflict is all external, making this book ideal for someone who loves angts but hates a third act breakup.
There's a little unevenness for me in the storytelling here, but I'll allow it in exchange for nude paintings, codebreaking, and a main couple who can't wait to tear each other's clothes off. There's series payoff for those of us who have read the previous 4 books, as Caroline features throughout those, as the Duchess mysteriously estranged from her husband, but you can easily read this first and work your way backwards into the series.
Thank you to Bloomsbury for an eARC for review. The Wayward Duke is out 1/28/25.
The Wayward Duke is a marriage in crisis (one of my favorite histrom tropes these days). Julian and Caroline married young, and early in their marriage multiple tragedies hit that they were unable to reconcile and grieve together. 8 years apart ends the day Julian walks back into the house they used to share, and as different people they see the love buried beneath the grief. Amidst reconciliation, more disaster strikes: someone is planting explosives and targeting political figures, including the Duke of Hastings.
While I love the chemistry and the heat in this series, Kendrick never shies away from packing a book with plot. Her skills as a fantasy writer are on display as the stakes climb ever higher with the risks Julian and Caroline face. This has all the angst of a marriage-in-crisis/second chance early on in the book, but the second half the conflict is all external, making this book ideal for someone who loves angts but hates a third act breakup.
There's a little unevenness for me in the storytelling here, but I'll allow it in exchange for nude paintings, codebreaking, and a main couple who can't wait to tear each other's clothes off. There's series payoff for those of us who have read the previous 4 books, as Caroline features throughout those, as the Duchess mysteriously estranged from her husband, but you can easily read this first and work your way backwards into the series.
Thank you to Bloomsbury for an eARC for review. The Wayward Duke is out 1/28/25.
January 26, 2025
3.5 stars
If you enjoy a quick read with PLENTY of excitement, from both spice AND espionage plots, you will LOVE this book!
Caroline is an artist who is moving on after heartbreak as best she can, which of course involves painting nudes. But one day, Julian, her estranged husband, comes back to town, and the two of them must attempt to be civil to keeps the tongues of the ton from wagging. Julian and Caroline are skilled code breakers, and quickly they become embroiled in a mission that might end their lives before they're able to fully realize how much they still love each other!
I REALLY enjoyed book two of this series: Private Arrangements, so when I saw that the paperback was coming out for book four, I requested the ARC immediately! This story is darker than I tend to enjoy. I found the first third of this book to be a bit formulaic and rushed, but after that things improved overall. I never quite felt that we got to know the characters, who seemingly hid themselves not just from each other, but from the reader. There are copious amounts of spice, which, in my opinion, stunted the overall plot. But the writing is good. The spy-related scenes are top notch! And there were some romantic moments that touched my heart.
I'm looking forward to reading more Katrina Kendrick in the future, as well as delving into her backlist to finish up this series!!
Trigger warnings: miscarriage, depression, death of a friend, shooting, blood, explosives, peril, fighting
I'd like to thank Bloomsbury USA and Aria for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
If you enjoy a quick read with PLENTY of excitement, from both spice AND espionage plots, you will LOVE this book!
Caroline is an artist who is moving on after heartbreak as best she can, which of course involves painting nudes. But one day, Julian, her estranged husband, comes back to town, and the two of them must attempt to be civil to keeps the tongues of the ton from wagging. Julian and Caroline are skilled code breakers, and quickly they become embroiled in a mission that might end their lives before they're able to fully realize how much they still love each other!
I REALLY enjoyed book two of this series: Private Arrangements, so when I saw that the paperback was coming out for book four, I requested the ARC immediately! This story is darker than I tend to enjoy. I found the first third of this book to be a bit formulaic and rushed, but after that things improved overall. I never quite felt that we got to know the characters, who seemingly hid themselves not just from each other, but from the reader. There are copious amounts of spice, which, in my opinion, stunted the overall plot. But the writing is good. The spy-related scenes are top notch! And there were some romantic moments that touched my heart.
I'm looking forward to reading more Katrina Kendrick in the future, as well as delving into her backlist to finish up this series!!
Trigger warnings: miscarriage, depression, death of a friend, shooting, blood, explosives, peril, fighting
I'd like to thank Bloomsbury USA and Aria for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.
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